Q.-1 I i^"ORTH American Birds A QUARTERLY JOURNAL OF ORNITHOLOGICAL RECORD PUBLISHED BY THE AMERICAN BIRDING ASSOCIATION QL 671 .A916 BIRD >■'^5 ■■'v W^in\[\ null illiiiliiiliiiillliiililliil ^ , ***auTO** 3-digit 214 .'Q 56 4 1 R. Jehl Jr N'PopI ar Ln polls MD 21401-7117 00032 01470 Volume 55: No.4, 2001 • June 2001 -July 2001 The Nesting Season L ike our renowned E L Binoculars, the new SLC Class of 42, 50 and 56 MM binoculars incorporate unique interference mirrors in their roof prism systems that reflect 99.5 % of the available light. SWAROBRIGHT® mirror coatings deliver the highest image brightness and color contrast available from any premium bino- cular at a competitive price. With SWAROBRIGHT®, you will receive as much as 5% to 10% more light transmission from our new SLC Binoculars. That's more total light transmission and contrast than any other premium binocular on the planet except our E L Class! 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Raithel The Regional Reports 408 Atlantic Provinces Bruce Mactavish 410 Quebec Pierre Bannon, Samuel Denault, Yves Aubry, and Normand David 411 New England Wayne Petersen 415 Hudson-Delaware Joseph C. Burgiel, Robert 0. Paxton, and David A. Cutler 420 Middle Atlantic Coast Marshall J. lliff 423 Southern Atlantic Coast Ricky Davis 426 Florida David J. Powell 429 Ontario Theo Hoffman''' 433 Appalachia Robert C. Leberman 435 Western Great Lakes Peder H. Svingen 438 Middlewestern Prairie Kenneth J. Brock 442 Central Southern Robert D. Purrington 446 Prairie Provinces Rudolf F. Koes and Peter Taylor 447 Northern Great Plains Ron Martin 449 Southern Great Plains Joseph A. Grzybowski 451 Southern Great Plains (the Spring Migration 2001) Joseph A. Grzybowski 454 Texas Chuck Sexton 458 Idaho-Western Montana David Trochlell 460 Mountain West Van A. Truan and Brandon K. Percival 462 Great Basin Ted Floyd 464 Arizona Gary H. Rosenberg and Roy M. Jones 467 New Mexico Sartor 0. Williams III 470 Alaska Thede Tobish 472 British Columbia-Yukon Donald G. Cecile 475 Oregon- Washington Steven MIodinow and Bill Tweit 478 Middle Pacific Coast Daniel S. Singer, Scott B. Terrill, Steven A. Glover, Thomas P. Ryan, and Don Roberson 481 Southern Pacific Coast Guy McCaskie and Kimball L. Garrett 484 Baja California Robert A. Hamilton, Richard A. Erickson, and Eduardo Palacios 486 Mexico Hector Gomez de Silva 489 Central America H. Lee Jones 490 Hawaii Robert L. Pyle and Peter Donaldson 493 West Indies Robert L. Norton and Anthony White 505 Pictorial Highlights Like airports most everywhere, the Sarnia Airport authorities in Lambton County, Ontario, mow the grass every summer. One unfortunate consequence of the mowing is the destruction of eggs or chicks of local Upland Sandpipers. Only one adult returned this year to the Sarnia airport grounds and set up territory in a bit of “no-man’s-land.” This and other grassland species struggled with widespread drought in the continent’s interior this season, but some species were nonetheless reported to be doing well. Photograph by Alfred Rider. American Birding Association PRESIDENT Richard H. Payne VICE-PRESIDENT Wayne R. Petersen SECRETARY Ann Stone TREASURER Dennis H. Lacoss BOARD OF DIRECTORS Kenneth P. Able Margaret J.C. Bain David M. Bird Lynda Brothers Jon L. Dunn Thomas J. Gilmore Bettie R. Harriman John C. Kricher Greg W. Lasley Michael Ord Richard H. Payne Father Tom Pincelli Harry Tow Gerald J. Ziarno EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Paul Green FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION Lynn Yeager CONSERVATION AND EDUCATION Lina DiGregorio CONVENTIONS AND CONFERENCES Ken Hollinga ADVERTISING Ken Barron GENERAL COUNSEL Daniel T. Williams Jr. PAST PRESIDENTS Allan R. Keith (1997-1999) Daniel T. Williams Jr. (1993-1997) Allan R. Keith (1989-1993) Lawrence G. Balch (1983-1989) Joseph W. Taylor ( 1979-1983) Arnold Small ( 1976-1979) G. Stuart Keith (1973-1976) G. Stuart Keith (1970 pro tern) North American Birds is published by the American Birding Association. The mission of the journal is to provide a complete overview of the changing panorama of our continent’s birdlife, including outstanding records, range extensions and contractions, population dynamics, and changes in migration patterns or seasonal occurrence. We welcome submission of papers in these areas; papers and other communicaion should be sent to the Colorado Springs address below. PUBLISHER ABA / John C. Kricher EDITOR ASSOCIATE EDITORS PHOTO EDITOR Edward S. Brinkley Stephen J. Dinsmore Matthew F. Sharp Alvaro Jaramillo Paul E. Lehman EDITORIAL AND SCIENTIFIC ADVISORY BOARD Kenneth P. Able, P. A. Buckley [Chair), Richard Cannings, Alan Contreras, Jon L. Dunn, Matt T. Heindel, Kevin T. Karlson, Jon King, Tony Leukering, Joseph Morlan, Michael O’Brien, Kenneth V. Rosenberg, P. William Smith, Richard R. Veit, David Wingate, Alan Wormington REGIONAL EDITORS Bruce H. Anderson, Yves Aubry, Margaret J. C. Bain, Pierre Bannon, Kenneth J. Brock, Joseph C. Burgiel, Steven W. Cardiff, Donald G. Cecile, C. Dwight Cooley, Hugh G. Currier, David A. Cutler, Brian Dalzell, Normand David, Ricky Davis, Samuel Denault, Peter Donaldson, David H. Elder, Walter G. Ellison, Richard A. Erickson, Ted Floyd, Kimball Garrett, Jeff Gilligan, Steven A. Glover, Hector Gomez de Silva, Jim Granlund, Joseph A. Grzybowski, Robert A. Hamilton, Theo Hofmann, Pam Hunt, Marshall J. Iliff, Greg D. Jackson, H. Lee Jones, Roy Jones, Rudolf F. Koes, Robert C. Leberman, Gerard Lillie, Bruce Mactavish, Nancy L. Martin, Ron E. Martin, Blake Maybank, Guy McCaskie, Ian A. McLaren, Steven G. Mlodinow, B. Mac. Myers, Robert L. Norton, Eduardo Z. Palacios, Robert O. Paxton, Brandon K. Percival, Simon Perkins, Wayne R. Petersen, David J. Powell, Bill Pranty, Robert D. Purrington, Robert L. Pyle, Don Roberson, Gary H. Rosenberg, Thomas P. Ryan, Chuck Sexton, Michael G. Shepard, Daniel S. Singer, Stephen J. Stedman, Peder Svingen, Peter Taylor, Scott B. Terrill, Bill Tice, Thede G. Tobish Jr., David Trochlell, Van A. Truan, Bill Tweit, Phillip A. Wallace, Ron Weeks, Anthony W. White, Sartor O. Williams GRAPHIC DESIGN PRODUCTION & ADVERTISING COORDINATOR Debra Watkins Bryan Patrick Empact Design & Graphics CIRCULATION TECHNICAL REVIEWERS Carissa Pigot Bill Pranty Steve Mlodinow Marshall J. Iliff North American Birds (ISSN 1525-3708) (USPS 872-200) is published quarterly by the American Birding Association, Inc., 720 West Monument Street, Colorado Springs, CO 80904-3624. Periodicals postage paid at Colorado Springs, Colorado, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: return postage guaranteed; send address changes and POD forms 3579 to North American Birds, PO Box 6599, Colorado Springs, Colorado, 80934-6599. Subscription prices: $30/year (US) and US$35/year (Canada). Copyright © 2001 by the American Birding Association, Inc., all rights reserved. Printed by Publishers Printing, Shepherdsville, Kentucky. The views and opinions expressed in this magazine are those of each contributing writer and do not necessarily represent the views and opinions of the American Birding Association or its management. ABA is not responsible for the quality of products or services advertised in North American Birds, unless the products or services are being offered directly by the Association. GST Registration No. R 135943454. 386 North American Birds Editors’ Notebook I will wager that virtually everyone reading this has participated in a Christmas Bird Count. But most of us, whether participating for the con- viviality of the event or out of devotion to careful survey of birds on our patch (or for both reasons), don’t spend much time thinking about the trends in bird distributions or populations that lie hidden in the millions of entries in the C.B.C. database. I have to admit that I was not long ago a skeptic about the scientific use of data gathered on these counts. Too many variables came to mind that seemed to overwhelm comparability of counts from year to year: observers’ varying skill levels and local knowledge; observer bias (spending half the day looking for a rare gull on the coast rather than dutifuOy count- ing House Finches at feeders in the suburbs); the variable timing of counts; and the capricious Weather. In the mid-1980s, when several young turks inherited a plum territory on a C.B.C. from a veteran of six decades of Christmas bird counting, they asked how he counted all the many thou- sands of gulls and vultures at the landfill. “Those aren’t really birds,” came the reply. “I count the cowbirds and leave.” I try to refrain from odd anec- dotes, but this observer was quite serious in his bias against the big offal- eating species; there was something unseemly about them that made them unfit for the holiday tally. (The C.B.C. data for that count subsequently reflected an instant influx of about 10,000 Herring gulls!) As a participant in many counts in the mid-Atlantic, I can recall many similar idiosyn- crasies or inconsistencies among counts. But perhaps these differences are insignificant when we look at the C.B.C. data across large areas and across the years. Indeed, it was heart- ening to read Bruce Peterjohn’s “Reflections on the historic, current, and future analyses of Christmas Bird Count data” in the annual journal still known as American Birds (100th count issue) and imagine the as-yet unwritten analyses of those data. There are naturally plenty of species for which trend analysis would suffer little from the variables that had preoccupied me. Two such species — the Hooded Merganser and the non-native Budgerigar, both striking species and hardly birds to be over- looked by birders — are considered in this issue. The papers by Bill Pranty and Stephen Davis both base their analyses largely on C.B.C. data, from Florida and New England, respectively. An observer living and birding on either end of the East Coast might glance at these papers and note: “Well, of course Budgies are declining in Florida.” Or: “Of course Hoodies are increasing in Connecticut. I see evidence of that every time I go out birding.” But it takes more than a confidence in one’s own casual local observa- tions to make statements of this sort that will satisfy the community of sci- entists. Though no one would disagree with the conclusions of these papers — that Budgerigar populations in Florida have decreased dramati- cally in recent years, that Hooded Mergansers’ numbers show an upward trend in New England — the demonstration of these contentions involves analysis beyond the obvious, and beyond the C.B.C. numbers themselves. And just where would one look for information about Budgerigar pop- ulations in North America? Though in their checklists both A. 0. U. and A. B. A. list Budgerigar as a firmly established, “naturalized” bird in Florida, no paper on the species has been published since its precipitous decline there, and no monograph on the species is slated for inclusion in the Birds of North America series, which does treat several other non-native birds. Pranty presents a thorough overview of the current Florida situation, along with many useful historical data. While the Budgerigar’s population has been relatively isolated in Florida (and so its increase and decline can be starkly graphed). Hooded Mergansers are more widespread; their apparent increase in New England might not reflect an increase in population at aU but perhaps only a shift in wintering patterns. Davis’s paper does not seek to make far-reaching Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 claims based on the data. Rather, he is satisfied to investigate the data in terms of several sets of variables among counts (latitude, longitude, tem- perature, and presence or absence of coastline) that might show statistical correlation with Hooded Mergansers’ numbers in New England. His tests show an association of increasing numbers of mergansers with latitude and, to a lesser degree, with salt water but perhaps surprisingly, not with temperature. Some readers will see the statistical analyses and turn the page (that “C-” in the statistics course still has some sting!). But we should all take a careful look at both articles, as they give us a sense of what can be done with C.B.C. data in our own areas — and convey how much work must be done to demonstrate even the most modest of scientific claims. Pranty, for instance, takes great care to “vet” the very C.B.C. data, which are never entirely free of human error. Though these articles have regional focus, both have broad implications for all regions. Ever elusive in studies such as these that harness C.B.C. records is the cause or causes for apparent increases or declines. Both authors speculate on reasons for their subjects’ change in status, but in both cases, there may be no certainty as to cause or causes. Pranty’s analysis would appear to rule out harsh weather or disease as primary causes for decline; the possibility that House Sparrows and European Starlings outcompeted Budgerigars for nest cavities seems a good one (we’re pretty sure that Hooded Mergansers didn’t evict the Budgies, yes). Davis correctly indicates that study on a larg- er scale will be needed to identify causes for possible population changes in the merganser. Along the lines of C.B.C. data, Mitra and Raithel have ventured beyond the December and early January period set for the holiday counts and con- ducted simOar surveys on Block Island, Rhode Island, in November, December, and February, with the help of local students. Their findings, which may surprise even longtime observers, suggest that the reduction of half-hardy species from mid- to late winter is less likely to be a result of mortality (as commonly assumed) than of a continued post-migratory dis- persal, or facultative migration. Another popular assumption — that the timing of C.B.C.s leads those surveys to include lingering southbound migrants, rather than wintering birds, in northeastern North America — also comes into question. The paper’s findings support, as the authors write, “the existence of a natural distinction between late migrants and half- hardy wintering species in northeastern North America,” a murky topic that has received little scrutiny in scientific papers but that is often taken for granted by birders in the field. We think of Northern Cardinal, for instance, as a largely sedentary species in winter, but the view from Block Island (which, like many offshore islands, has a clear advantage in documenting influxes) suggests that cardinals are prone to facultative migration in some numbers after an earlier late-autumn push. As someone who lives at the tip of the long Delmarva Peninsula, I’ll be watching cardinals more carefully now. Debts of thanks At the end of the Volume, the A.B.A. would like to express its deepest appreciation to the people who have spent many hours reviewing manu- scripts over the past year. Our thanks to J. Van Remsen, P. A. Buckley, Guy McCaskie, Michael A. Patten, Kimball Garrett, Douglas B. McNair, Jon L. Dunn, Erik Hirschfeld, Stephen J. Dinsmore, Alvaro Jaramillo, W. Ross Silcock, and Marshall J. Iliff for their hard work on seven manuscripts this year. This issue was co-edited in part with the previous Editor, Michael A. Patten, and with Associate Editor Paul E. Lehman, both of whom have our especial thanks. — Edward S. (Ned) Brinkley, Editor 387 5®^ .-•.'•• '. ' j'< .' t:tW look up to 7°Ia It's twilight, with the sighting of a lifetime in range. Victory binoculars were made for this moment. Thanks to patented lens and prism coatings, they transmit more light to the eye. So birds appear brighter in low light. All four Victory models are backed by a lifetime warranty. For a Zeiss retailer near you, call 1-800-338-2984 or visit zeiss.com. ‘Based on blue, red and green light transmission tests. Data on file. ZEISS i 388 North American Birds The Budgerigar in Fiorida: Rise and Fall of an Exotic Psittacid A typical Florida suburban scene, with a Budgerigar, native to Australia, perched in an Oleander {Nerium oleandef), a plant native to the Mediterranean. This image was taken at one of the species’s last strongholds in Florida, at Hernando Beach, Hernando County, on 5 April 2000. Photograph by Peter S. Weber Bill Pranty Audubon of Florida 410 Ware Boulevard, Suite 702 Tampa, Fiorida 33619 (billpranty@hotmail.com) Abstract Since the 1950s, a population of Budgerigars {Melopsittacus undulatus) has been present along the Gulf coast of central Florida, established primarily from intentional releases of thousands of individuals. By the late 1970s, the number of Budgerigars in the region may have exceeded 20,000, and breeding was widespread in specially-built nest boxes. But within a few years, the population “crashed” and has not recovered. Since 1994, fewer than 100 Budgerigars have been reported on Christmas Bird Counts, and probably no more than 150-200 remain in Florida. Eventual extirpation seems likely. The causes of the population decline are unknown, but nest- ing competition with House Sparrows {Passer domesticus) may have been the primary influence. The sizes of Budgerigar populations formerly pres- ent along the Adantic coast of Florida seem to have been exaggerated. Introduction Budgerigars (Melopsittacus undulatus) are small psittacids native to open habitats of the Australian interior (Forshaw 1977, Long 1981, del Hoyo et al. 1997, A.O.U. 1998, Juniper and Parr 1998). They are believed to be the most popular cagebird in the world, and have been bred in captivity in Europe since the 1840s (Forshaw 1977). Between 1925 and 1940, 240,000 Budgerigars were brought into the United States, with most of these “con- signed” to California and Florida (Cooke and Knappen 1941). It is not clear whether these were wild-caught individuals imported from Australia, or were of captive-bred stock obtained from Europe. In the early 1960s, a “massive cottage industry” of private aviculturists producing Budgerigars had developed in the United States (Clubb 1992). Many of these avicultur- ists were located in west-central Florida, where the sub-tropical climate allowed large numbers of Budgerigars to be raised in screened porches and other outdoor enclosures. Not surprisingly, some Budgerigars escaped accidentally, while many others were released deliberately. Wholesale releases began in the 1950s (Lipp 1963, Edscorn 1977) and continued for an unknown number of years. Up to 3000 Budgerigars at a time reported- Figure 1 . Map of Florida, showing most locales mentioned in the text that con- tain or contained Budgerigars. Of those sites not mapped, Shired Island is just east of Horseshoe Beach, Spring Hill is just east of Hernando Beach, New Port Richey is just north of Holiday, and Port Charlotte is just northwest of Punta Gorda. Zellwood is 35 km northwest of Winter Park. At their maximum established range in the late 1970s, Budgerigars were found in coastal areas from Hudson to Venice. They were not found in any substantial numbers more than 10 km inland, and in most areas were within 5 km of the Gulf of Mexico. Local escapees or releases were found widely elsewhere in Florida, and, except at Fort Lauderdale, these populations died out quickly. Today, Budgerigars are limited to Hernando Beach, and from Hudson to Holiday, and all individuals occur within 5 km of the Gulf coast. Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 389 ly were released (Shapiro 1979, Wenner and Hirth 1984), especially into the St. Petersburg area (Pinellas County), where they were considered a tourist attraction (Lipp 1963, Owre 1973, Shapiro 1979)! Once liberated. Budgerigars bred initially in natural and artificial cavities, but as the pop- ulation grew, so did its popularity. Eventually, human residents (primari- ly retirees) provided Budgerigars with wooden nest boxes, which were used readily and nearly exclusively. By the early 1970s, Budgerigars ranged along the Gulf coast of Florida from Hudson (Pasco County) to Venice (Sarasota County), a distance of 160 km (Fig. 1). Established populations were limited to residential developments directly along the coast (Shapiro 1979, 1980, Stevenson and Anderson 1994, pers. obs.) to five to 10 km inland (pers. obs.). Between the 1974-1975 and 1984-1985 Christmas Bird Count (C.B.C.) periods, over 1000 Budgerigars were reported annually in the region, peaking at 6895 individuals during the 1977-1978 count period (Table 1). But by the early 1980s, numbers of Budgerigars had declined drasti- cally, and fewer than 100 individuals have been reported on C.B.C.s since the 1994-1995 count period (Table 1, Fig. 2). Furthermore, their range has contracted to about 30 km of coastline between Hernando Beach (Hernando County) and Holiday (Pasco County). Except for frequent reports of usually single individuals that probably represent recent escapees. Budgerigars now are extirpated from all other areas in Florida. Despite their popularity, little is known about Budgerigars outside of captivity. Only a single, short-term study of their distribution and breed- ing biology has been undertaken in Florida (Shapiro 1979, 1980, 1981, Wenner and Hirth 1984). Here, C.B.C. and other data are analyzed to reassess the range and numbers of Budgerigars in the state, and to esti- mate the size of the population at its peak. Some potential causes for the severe reduction of the population also are discussed. Methods Prior to the 1960s, published information on Budgerigars in Florida was limited to a paper by Cooke and Knappen ( 1941 ), who mentioned solely that “[a] number” of individuals had been observed. Since the early 1960s, the primary sources of Budgerigar occurrence are C.B.C. data, a study conducted in 1978 (Shapiro 1979, 1980, 1981, Wenner and Hirth 1984), the Florida Breeding Bird Atlas Project, 1986-1991 (F. B. B. A.; Kale et al. 1992), and observations published in standard ornithological sources. I searched all published Florida C.B.C.s since December 1960 for Budgerigar reports. In the online C.B.C. database (version 5.09) posted to the Audubon website , I discov- ered several errors, most seriously the transposition of the totals of 83 and 0 Budgerigars on the 1971 New Port Richey and Orlando C.B.C.s, respectively. Therefore, I copied all C.B.C. data from Audubon Field Notes, American Birds, Field Notes, and Florida Field Naturalist (1985 North Pinellas C.B.C.; Woolfenden et al. 1994). Except for the 1998 West Pasco C.B.C., on which 13 Budgerigars were found, rather than the “3” that were listed in American Birds (pers. obs.), all data were copied as published. I question the “705” Budgerigars reported on the 1974 Sarasota C.B.C., which is more than five times greater than the next- highest total for that C.B.C. (Table 1). Results of the 1976 New Port Richey C.B.C. were not published in American Birds and now are lost, and this affects Fig. 2. The New Port Richey C.B.C. was renamed in 1989 as the “West Pasco (New Port Richey)” C.B.C.; to avoid confusion, the name West Pasco C.B.C. will be used exclusively in this paper. C.B.C. compilers in Florida routinely suppress reports of certain exotics (e.g., Muscovy Duck, Cairina moschata', pers. obs.), but I have presumed that all Budgerigars seen on C.B.C.s were reported to count compilers and were published. For her Master’s degree, Anne Shapiro (Wenner) studied the Figure 2. Budgerigars on Florida Christmas Bird Counts, 1962-2000. These data have not been adjusted by party hour or for any other factor. Results from the 1976 West Pasco C.B.C. were not published and now are lost. Sources: all Florida C.B.C.s published since 1961 in American Birds, Audubon Field Notes, Field Notes, and Florida Field Naturalist. Budgerigar population at Holiday and New Port Richey for nine months in 1978. Two elements of her thesis were a mail survey and newsletter request to determine the range of Budgerigars in Florida, and a study of breeding individuals at Holiday. Shapiro never published her demography data outside of her thesis (Shapiro 1979), but her distribution data were published in a popular article (Shapiro 1980) and a formal paper (Wenner and Hirth 1984); a photo “essay” also was published (Shapiro 1981). In most cases, Shapiro used vague terms such as “common” and “abundant” when describing sizes of Budgerigar populations, rather than providing specific counts or estimates, and she did not reference C.B.C. data. Shapiro received information on the location and numbers of Budgerigars from more than 50 observers, and the sizes of some popula- tions reported to her, especially those along the Atlantic coast, seem to have been exaggerated. Other references searched for observations of Budgerigars were Audubon Field Notes and its successors through North American Birds (greatly assisted by Loftin et al. 1991), Florida Field Naturalist, the data- base of the unpublished Florida Breeding Bird Atlas Project (Kale et al. 1992), and two recent state bird books (Robertson and Woolfenden 1992, Stevenson and Anderson 1994). Several other books and book chapters published in the past 15 years contain information on Budgerigars in Florida, but these simply referenced (and occasionally misinterpreted) data published in Wenner and Hirth (1984). Recent observations of Budgerigars also were taken from three Internet lists: “Birdbrains” (obsolete in July 2001), BIRDCHAT , and “FLORIDABIRDS-L” . A request for information posted to the Parrot Data E-mail Club maintained by Peter Them was forwarded to the Birding-Aus list , which brought in several responses about Budgerigars in Australia. Participants of a survey of Monk Parakeets (Myiopsitta monachus) throughout Peninsular Florida and the Keys in 1999-2000 (Pranty in prep.) were asked to record all other psittacids seen, and the lack of Budgerigar observations was taken into account here. 390 North American Birds Budgerigar Figure 3. Distribution of Budgerigars in Florida, 1962-2001 . Each of the 31 counties in which Budgerigars have been reported to occur are shaded according to the highest single count known, mostly obtained from C.B.C.s. For 20 (64%) of these counties, this total is less than 10 individuals. Four other counties each contained fewer than 1 00 birds. In only seven coun- ties— all along the central Gulf coast, and with six of these adjacent — were more than 1 00 Budgerigars reported to occur. Pasco and Pinellas each con- tained more than 5000 Budgerigars; Robertson and Woolfenden (1 992) referred to these counties as the species’s “heartland.” For counties along the southern Atlantic coast, I have used C.B.C. data to determine the highest totals, rather than the apparent anecdotal evidence published by Shapiro (1979, 1980) and Wenner and Mirth (1984). Distribution Cooke and Knappen (1941) were the first to mention Budgerigars in Florida, but they presented no data for locations, numbers of individuals, or years of occurrence. Since the 1960s, Budgerigars have been reported in 31 of the state’s 67 counties (Fig. 3), but it was only along the Gulf coast of central Florida that populations exceeded 50 individuals and persisted for more than 15 years. Because the various populations have different histo- ries, they are discussed separately. Peninsular Gulf Coast Budgerigars were first reported breeding at Redington Beach and elsewhere in Pinellas County in the 1950s (Lipp 1963, Stevenson 1963, Edscorn 1977, Robertson and Woolfenden 1992), and were considered locally common from Port Richey to Holiday (Pasco County) by 1963 (Dill 1981). They were first listed on a C.B.C. at St. Petersburg in December 1962, when six were reported, but the compiler noted that there were “hundreds now feral, nesting in tree cavities” (Woolfenden 1963). Shapiro (1979) suggested that Budgerigars may have first appeared at Fort Myers (Lee County) in the mid-1950s. Other Florida cities later colonized, through either population expansion or from independent releases, were Bradenton (Manatee County) by 1966, Sarasota and Venice (Sarasota County) by 1973, Tampa (Hillsborough County) in 1975, Bayonet Point/Hudson (Pasco County) by 1977, and Hernando Beach by 1991 (Table 1, pers. obs.). C.B.C. data indicate that Budgerigars occurred regularly south to Venice, but during the 1970s, individuals were reported south of this locale, at Port Charlotte and Punta Gorda (Charlotte County; Edscorn 1977), Fort Myers and Sanibel Island (Lee County; Shapiro 1979, Wenner and Hirth 1984), and Naples (Collier County; Shapiro 1979, Wenner and Hirth 1984). However, none of these populations persisted into the 1980s. Shapiro ( 1979) stated that the Budgerigars seen at Fort Myers were captive individ- uals and free to “come and go at will” from open aviaries, and she made only vague reference to their breeding outside of captivity at that locale. Budgerigars were reported on only four Fort Myers C.B.C.s between 1973 and 1982, with the highest total of 37 individuals in December 1979 (Table 1). They were never reported on the Naples C.B.C., the Peace River C.B.C. (which includes all of Punta Gorda and some of Port Charlotte), or the Sanibel-Captiva C.B.C. (Table 1). Based on these data, it seems that Venice marked the southern limit of the Budgerigar’s established range along the Gulf coast. A few Budgerigars were reported north of Hudson, which in the 1960s and 1970s marked the northern limit of their established range. There are reports of one and two Budgerigars at Bayport (Hernando County) in the 1960s (Stevenson 1964, Pantelidis and Stevenson 1969), and four or fewer individuals at Shired Island and Horseshoe Beach (Dixie County; Ogden 1973, Robertson and Woolfenden 1992) and Cedar Key (Levy County; Edscorn 1976, Atherton and Atherton 1982, Table 1 ) in the 1970s and early 1980s. The F.B.B.A. documented “possible” breeding — presumably a single individual seen once — at Crystal River (Citrus County) in 1990 (Kale et al. 1992). With such low numbers and no evidence of population persistence. Figure 4. Current range (red areas) of the Budgerigar in Florida. Since the mid-1990s, Budgerigars have been restricted to small isolated “colonies” on or near the Gulf of Mexico in Hernando and Pasco counties. Circles for the Aripeka-Bayport (north) and West Pasco (south) C.B.C.s are shown; all known Budgerigars remaining in Florida occur within these two C.B.C. circles. The two most reliable locations for Budgerigars are Hernando Beach and Bayonet Point. Hernando Beach is located along the Hernando County coast between County Roads 550 and 595. Budgerigars may be seen anywhere west of Shoal Line Boulevard between Eagle Nest Drive and Companero Entra, but recently they have been found most reliably along Gulfwinds Circle, accessed by heading west on Gulfview Drive and turning south at the “T,” then angling back north. At Bayonet Point in Pasco County, Budgerigars roost with icterids and House Sparrows in trees at the junction of U.S. Highway 1 9 and State Road 52. Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 391 it seems likely that these Budgerigars were local escapees rather than indi- viduals from established populations farther south. Shapiro (1979, 1980) and Wenner and Hirth (1984) reported “flocks” of Budgerigars at Spring Hill (Hernando County) apparently in the 1970s, and the F.B.B.A. docu- mented “probable” and “confirmed” breeding at two sites there in 1988, including one site at least 20 km inland. However, the Spring Hill popula- tion never was again mentioned in print. By the early 1980s, a decline in the range and numbers of Budgerigars along the Gulf coast was evident (Table 1, Fig. 2). During the F.B.B.A. (1986-1991), Budgerigars were “confirmed” to breed in the region in only Hernando, Hillsborough, Pasco, Pinellas, and Sarasota counties (Kale et al. 1992). They were not found at all by F.B.B.A. surveyors in Manatee County, although they persisted at Bradenton through December 1991 (Table 1). Budgerigars had colonized Hernando Beach by 1991 (Table 1), and these individuals also had been overlooked by F.B.B.A. surveyors. Budgerigars were extirpated from Florida by the mid-1990s, except for coastal portions of Hernando and Pasco counties, where small numbers have persisted (Table 1, Fig. 4). A “colony” is present at Hernando Beach, and other individuals occur spottily from Hudson to Holiday. Both areas of current distribution are within C.B.C. circles, and C.B.C. data have been used to monitor these remnant populations. Since its inception in 1991, the Aripeka-Bayport C.B.C. has recorded a mean of 45 Budgerigars (range 8-137) at Hernando Beach, with counts of 30, 39, and 53 individuals in 1998, 1999, and 2000 respectively (Table 1). The Hernando Beach habitat occupied recently is less than 200 ha (pers. obs., B. Hansen pers. comm.). On the West Pasco C.B.C. since December 1990, a mean of 43 Budgerigars (range 11-60) has been seen, with counts of 13, 53, and 33 birds in 1998, 1999, and 2000 respectively (Table 1). Perhaps most of the Budgerigars remaining in Pasco County roost at Bayonet Point; recent counts from there include 52 on 5 December 1999 (K. Tracey in Pranty 2000), 92 on the fall 2000 North American Migration Count (N.A.M.C.) 16 September 2000 (K. Tracey pers. comm.), 25 on the C.B.C. 29 December 2000 (pers. obs.), and 45 on the fall 2001 N.A.M.C. 15 September 2001 (K. Tracey pers. comm.). Based on C.B.C. data and other recent observations, it seems that somewhat more than 100 Budgerigars remain in western Pasco County, and 50 or more exist in southwestern Hernando County. Outside these two counties, presumably escaped Budgerigars have been reported since 1999 in Hillsborough, Manatee, and Pinellas counties (J. Fisher, L. Snyder, M. Wilkinson in litt., A. and R. Paul pers. comm.). Atlantic Coast Cruickshank ( 1980) reported “scores” of Budgerigars “at scattered points” in Brevard County beginning in 1963, including one pair that apparently bred in an abandoned woodpecker cavity near Sharpes in 1968. Budgerigars were seen on five consecutive Cocoa C.B.C.s from 1971 to 1975, with the highest total of 11 in 1972 (Table 1). However, the Brevard individuals were not reported after 1975. There were reports that Budgerigars may have bred at Jacksonville (Duval County) in 1977 and previous years (Kale 1977), but these were never again mentioned (e.g., Jacksonville C.B.C.; Table 1), except for a single bird seen once in 1989 (Kale et al. 1992). Apparently from anecdotal information, Shapiro (1979) and Wenner and Hirth (1984) reported that Budgerigars were breeding at Fort Pierce and Port St. Lucie (St. Lucie County) and Fort Lauderdale (Broward County), and that flocks were “common” from north of Fort Pierce south to West Palm Beach (Palm Beach County) and at Miami (Miami-Dade County, formerly Dade County). Shapiro (1980) called the Budgerigar “abundant” at Fort Pierce and Fort Lauderdale. C.B.C. data offer a different view of the sizes of Budgerigar populations along the lower Atlantic coast. For instance, since the 1960s only two Figure 5. A Budgerigar inspects a nest box at Hernando Beach, Hernando County, Florida, 5 April 2000. This paper suggests that competition with House Sparrows over such artificial cavities for nesting was a primary cause of the sharp decline of the Budgerigar in Florida. Photograph by Peter S. Weber. Budgerigars have been found on Dade County C.B.C.s (singles in 1975 and 1994) and they have never been reported on the Fort Pierce C.B.C. or the West Palm Beach C.B.C. (Table 1 ). (Port St. Lucie mosdy is outside the Fort Pierce C.B.C. circle). No subsequent reports of Budgerigars have been published for Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie, or West Palm Beach. Budgerigars were reported on 10 Fort Lauderdale C.B.C.s from 1973 to 1988 inclusive, with the highest total of 11 individuals in December 1977 (Table 1 ). During the F.B.B.A. (1986-1991), Budgerigars were found along the Atlantic coast only in Miami-Dade and Duval counties, where “possible” breeding was documented at Jacksonville and four sites from Miami Beach to Homestead (Kale et al. 1992); the individuals that persisted at Fort Lauderdale to at least December 1988 (Table 1 ) had been overlooked. Subsequent to the F.B.B.A., only single Budgerigars have been reported along the Atlantic coast: in the Fort Lauderdale area, at Pembroke Pines (Broward County), and in the Miami area (Table 1, Pranty and Epps in review, J. Boyd in litt.); most of these individuals were seen only once. The seven or eight Broward County individuals seen since 1998 were blue or yellow morphs, which suggests strongly that they were escapees (Pranty and Epps in review). Given the low numbers of Budgerigars seen on a few C.B.C.s in the region 10-25 years ago (Table 1), it seems that the previous assessments of “common” or “abundant” Budgerigar populations along the Atlantic coast were exaggerated. Whether Budgerigars ever bred in southeastern Florida is uncertain, although persistent reports on the Fort Lauderdale C.B.C.s (Table 1) suggest that breeding perhaps did occur. 392 North American Birds Budgerigar Table 1. Numbers of Budgerigars listed on ail published C.B.C.s in Florida YEAR C.B.C.S Totals AB BD CK OR FIVI GO NA NP PR SA SC SP TA VE WP CO DC FL FP JA WB BC BK GA LK LP LW OR PE 1962 1 6 nc 0 nc nc 0 nc nc nc nc 0 0 6 nc nc nc 0 nc 0 0 0 0 nc nc 0 nc nc nc nc 0 1963 1 10 nc 0 nc nc 0 nc 0 nc nc 0 0 10 nc nc nc 0 nc 0 0 0 0 nc nc 0 nc nc nc nc 0 1964 1 100 nc 0 nc nc 0 nc 0 nc nc 0 0 100 nc nc nc 0 nc 0 0 0 0 0 nc 0 nc nc nc nc 0 1965 1 11 nc 0 nc nc 0 nc 0 nc nc 0 0 11 nc nc nc 0 nc 0 0 0 0 0 nc 0 0 nc nc nc 0 1966 2 32 nc 12 nc nc 0 nc 0 nc nc 0 0 20 nc nc nc 0 nc 0 0 0 0 0 nc 0 0 nc nc nc 0 1967 2 87 nc 7 nc nc 0 nc 0 nc nc 0 0 80 nc nc nc 0 nc 0 0 0 0 0 nc 0 0 nc nc 0 0 1968 2 56 nc 28 nc nc 0 nc 0 nc nc 0 nc 28 nc nc nc 0 nc 0 0 0 0 0 nc 0 0 nc nc 0 0 1969 2 184 nc 34 nc nc 0 nc 0 nc nc 0 0 150 nc nc nc 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 nc 0 0 nc 0 0 0 1970 3 237 nc 175 nc nc 0 nc 0 nc nc 0 0 50 nc nc 12 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 nc 0 0 nc 0 0 0 1971 4 214 nc 80 nc nc 0 nc 0 nc nc 0 0 50 0 nc 83 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 nc 0 0 nc 0 0 0 1972 4 269 nc 152 nc nc 0 nc 0 nc nc 0 0 90 0 nc 16 11 0 0 nc 0 0 0 nc 0 0 nc 0 0 0 1973 9 912 nc 371 nc nc 2 nc 0 nc nc 20 0 100 0 64 345 6 0 3 0 0 0 0 nc 0 1 nc 0 0 0 1974 7 2910 nc 301 nc nc 0 nc 0 nc nc 705 0 1800 0 18 81 3 0 2 0 0 0 0 nc 0 0 nc 0 0 0 1975 8 4026 nc 470 nc nc 0 nc 0 nc nc 41 0 3000 cw 303 208 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 nc 0 0 nc 0 0 0 1976 6 1254 nc 360 nc nc 0 nc 0 25 nc 84 0 250 10 521 nc 0 0 4 0 0 0 0 nc 0 0 nc 0 0 0 1977 7 6895 nc nc nc nc 0 nc 0 700 nc 24 0 5400 115 174 470 0 0 11 0 0 0 0 nc 0 0 nc 0 1 0 1978 6 4478 nc nc nc nc 0 nc 0 740 nc 13 0 3000 13 14 698 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 nc 0 0 nc 0 0 0 1979 7 4878 nc nc 3 nc 37 nc 0 525 nc 40 0 3800 65 0 408 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 nc 0 0 0 1980 8 4632 nc nc 0 nc 9 nc 0 150 nc 24 0 3100 2 2 1341 0 0 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 nc 0 0 0 1981 9 1460 nc nc 0 nc 0 nc 0 160 nc 104 0 900 16 23 253 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 0 0 cw nc 0 0 0 1982 9 1006 nc 3 0 nc 2 20 0 100 nc 2 0 750 4 28 97 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 nc 0 0 0 1983 11 1832 nc 12 0 nc 0 57 0 390 nc 36 0 570 40 104 600 0 0 5 0 0 0 0 17 0 0 nc 1 nc 0 1984 9 2191 nc 49 0 nc 0 25 0 122 nc 121 0 1700 47 23 102 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 nc 0 nc 0 1985 6 884 nc 0 0 nc 0 4 0 100 nc 0 0 610 1 44 125 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 nc 0 nc 0 1986 8 862 nc 19 0 nc 0 0 0 170 nc 3 0 310 6 133 220 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 nc 0 nc 0 1987 5 385 nc 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 135 5 52 190 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 nc 0 1988 9 241 nc 1 0 0 0 0 0 4 0 0 0 190 5 16 18 0 0 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 nc 0 1989 4 167 nc 12 0 0 0 0 0 12 0 0 0 127 0 0 16 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 nc 0 1990 6 238 nc 0 0 0 0 4 0 16 0 0 0 135 0 22 60 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 nc 0 1991 7 255 39 1 0 0 0 0 0 60 0 0 0 100 2 7 46 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 nc 0 1992 5 329 137 0 0 0 0 0 0 50 0 0 0 70 0 20 52 0 0 0 nc 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 nc 0 1993 4 177 44 0 0 0 0 0 0 60 0 0 0 13 0 0 60 0 0 0 nc 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 nc 0 1994 5 23 8 0 0 0 0 cw 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 11 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 nc 0 1995 2 90 36 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 54 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 nc 0 1996 3 85 29 0 0 0 0 0 0 11 0 0 nc 0 0 0 45 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 nc 0 1997 2 85 35 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 50 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 nc 0 1998 2 43 30 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 13 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 nc 0 1999 2 92 39 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 53 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 nc 0 2000 3 87 53 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 33 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 nc 0 # Years 10 18 1 0 4 6 0 19 0 13 0 33 15 18 30 5 2 10 0 0 0 2 1 0 4 1 1 1 0 Some counts on which Budgerigars were never reported are inciuded if they are mentioned in the text, or are located in a county in which Budgerigars were observed. Twenty C.B.C. circles listed Budgerigars at least once, beginning with St. Petersburg in December 1962. C.B.C.s are arranged by region, beginning with the Peninsular Gulf coast, then the Atlantic coast, and concluding with all other regions combined. Sources: C.B.C. issues of Audubon Field Notes, American Birds, and Field Notes, and Woolfenden et a!. (1 994) for the 1 985 North Pinellas C.B.C. Counts are abbreviated and include the county or counties in which they occur (in italics): AB=Aripeka-Bayport (Hernando and Pasco; all Budgerigars in Hernando), BC=Bay County (Say), BD=Bradenton (Manatee), BK=Brooksviile (Hernando), CK=Cedar Key (/.evy), C0=Cocoa (Brevard), CR=Crystai River (Citrus), DC=Dade County (Miami- Dade), FL=Fort Lauderdale (Broward), FM=Fort Myers (Lee), FP=Fort Pierce (St. Lucie), GA=Gainesville (Alachua), GC^Gulf Coast Manatee County (Manatee), JA=Jacksonville (Duval), LK=Lakeland (Polk), LP=Lake Placid (Highlands), LW=Lake Wales (Polk), NA=Naples (Colliei), NP=North Pinellas (Pinellas), 0R=0rlando (Orange), PE=Pensacola (Escambia and Santa Rosa), PR=Peace River (Charlotte), SA^Sarasota (Sarasota), SC=Sanibel-Captiva (Lee), SP=St. Petersburg (Pinellas), TA=Tampa (Hillsborough), VE=Venice-Englewood (mostly Sarasota but some Charlotte), WB=West Palm Beach (Palm Beach), and WP=West Pasco (known as the New Port Richey C.B.C. until 1989; Pasco). A “0” (zero) indicates that no Budgerigars were seen; “nc” indi- cates that no count was published for that year. For birds reported during count week (cw), one individual is counted in the yearly totals. The report of “705” Budgerigars on the 1974 Sarasota C.B.C. is considered questionable here. Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 393 Elsewhere in Florida Away from the Peninsular coasts, Budgerigars have been observed widely in Florida, usually in very low numbers (Fig. 3), beginning in 1971 (Robertson 1972). Counties in which only one to four non-breeding individuals have been reported will not be discussed further. The largest number of Budgerigars found inland was at Gainesville (Alachua County), where “30 or more” were reported in the late 1970s (Shapiro 1979, Wenner and Hirth 1984). Flowever, this population apparently dis- appeared quickly; Budgerigars were never listed on Gainesville C.B.C.s (Table 1), nor were they mentioned by Rowan and Manetz (1995). Rowan (in prep.) added only one other Alachua County occurrence: a single individual seen once in 1996. The “small colonies” of Budgerigars present at Winter Park (Orange County) presumably in the 1970s (Shapiro 1979, Wenner and Hirth 1984) also apparently vanished quickly; the Orlando C.B.C., which contained this area, listed only a single bird in 1977 (Table 1). The five individuals at Zellwood (Orange County) in 1972 (Ogden 1972) never were again mentioned. An anomalous report of 13 Budgerigars was listed on the 1983 Brooksville C.B.C. (Hernando County), the center of which is 32 km from the Gulf coast. This report, the highest inland G.B.C. total in Florida, and the only one for the Brooksville C.B.C. (Table 1), seems perhaps equally likely as referring to birds at Spring Hill (a small portion occurs within the circle), locally escaped or released individuals seen elsewhere, or even a data entry error. The F.B.B.A. “confirmed” Budgerigars breeding at Auburndale (Polk County) in 1987 (Kale et al. 1992), but high counts on nearby C.B.C.s at Lakeland and Lake Wales are one individual each (Table 1 ). Fewer than 20 Budgerigars have been found in Polk County since the 1960s (C. Geanangel in litt.). Perhaps no more than one pair of Budgerigars bred in a nest box at Pensacola (Escambia County) around 1991 (D. Ware ht Stevenson and Anderson 1994, D. Ware in litt.); these were neither reported on Pensacola C.B.C.s (Table 1) nor mentioned by Duncan and Duncan (2000). Natural History Despite their abundance in Australia and (formerly) Florida, little is known about the life history of Budgerigars outside of captivity. The Budgerigars in west-central Florida represent the only exotic population that has become established, even though individuals have been liberat- ed in many regions of the world. From deliberate releases and accidental escapes. Budgerigars have been reported in Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Hong Kong, Japan, New Zealand, Oman, Puerto Rico, the Society Islands, South Africa, Switzerland, Tasmania, the United Kingdom, and several U.S. states including California, Hawaii, and New York (Long 1981, A.O.U. 1998, Juniper and Parr 1998, e.g., Bannon et al. 2001). Demography. — Shapiro’s (1979) study of breeding Budgerigars at Holiday is the sole source of demography data for Florida. She monitored 31 nest boxes daily from 16 April to 15 December 1978, and added 22 boxes to the study in June to replace those abandoned by Budgerigars or usurped by House Sparrows (Passer domesticus) . Monitoring of seven boxes was discontinued at the request of property owners. Budgerigar pairs were believed to be monogamous and often defended nest boxes for “several” months before and after the breeding season. The first nesting attempt commenced in mid-March, and the last eggs were laid in mid- November. Nesting was initiated mostly in June and August. Eighty mon- itored pairs of Budgerigars produced 947 eggs in 168 clutches, including 46 eggs from the seven boxes later eliminated from the study. Of the 901 eggs with known fates, 384 (42%) failed to hatch, 142 (15%) hatched but the nestlings died before fledging, and 375 (41%) produced fledglings. Clutch size ranged from one egg to 12 eggs, with a mean of 5.8 eggs. Ninety-five (65%) of 145 clutches monitored through the nesting cycle produced at least one fledgling. Causes of clutch failure included infertil- ity, embryo death, lack of incubation, desertion, parental destruction, destruction of one clutch by a Red-bellied Woodpecker (Melanerpes car- olinus), and destruction of several clutches by House Sparrows. Average time from egg laying to fledging for successful nests was 52.5 days, and the next clutch often was initiated up to 10 days before the final nestling of the previous brood had fledged. Twelve banded females monitored for the duration of the study produced between two and six clutches each, with a mean of 3.7 clutches. Most nestling mortality was attributed to starvation or illness, but some nestlings were “pecked to death;” it was not known whether these were killed by their parents, other Budgerigars, or other species. Only two instances of predation of adults or juveniles were observed: one by a house cat (Felis domesticus) and the other by a Red-shouldered Hawk (Buteo lineatus). Unrelated to Shapiro’s study, a Sharp-shinned Hawk (Accipiter stria- tus) captured a Budgerigar from a feeder at Bayonet Point ca. 1979 (pers. obs.), and another Sharp-shinned Hawk at Bayonet Point attacked a flock of 6 Budgerigars 15 Sep 2001 (K. Tracey in litt.). Since that time, Tracey (in litt.) has observed Merlins (Falco columbarius) attempt to capture Budgerigars on several occasions. Movements. — In Australia, Budgerigars are well-known for their nomadic behavior, moving from site to site, often in large flocks, in response to changing environmental conditions (Forshaw 1977, Long 1981, del Hoyo et al. 1997, Juniper and Parr 1998). Several authors (Shapiro 1979, 1980, Wenner and Hirth 1984, Juniper and Parr 1998) have stated that the Budgerigars in Florida exhibited similar nomadic tendencies, but supporting data seem to be lacking. Indeed, the absence of large numbers of Budgerigars in Florida except along the immediate Gulf coast (e.g., Fig. 3) suggests that the low numbers seen elsewhere were local escapees, and may further suggest that populations along the central Gulf coast largely were sedentary. In sharp contrast to Budgerigars occupying often arid regions of Australia, their counterparts in suburban west-central Florida had essentially limitless, dependable, and year-round water and food resources at their disposal (Shapiro 1979, 1980, 1981, Wenner and Hirth 1984). Combined with abundant nesting sites provided nearby (often in the same yards), dozens of bird feeders and bird baths present in residential neighborhoods may have eliminat- ed the need for Budgerigars in Florida to travel widely in search of food and water. Nevertheless, limited movements (ca. 5 km) were known to occur during the winter, as some birds left breeding areas to join com- munal roosts nearby (Shapiro 1979). Food. — In Australia, Budgerigars feed primarily on grass seeds, with 39 species identified in one study (del Hoyo et al. 1997); commercial grain crops occasionally are depredated (del Hoyo et al. 1997, Juniper and Parr 1998). Feeding habits of Budgerigars in Florida have never been studied, but observations suggest that commercial bird seed is their pri- mary food (Shapiro 1979, 1980, Wenner and Hirth 1984). Stevenson and Anderson (1994) added “weed and grass seeds” taken from “upper beach- es and sandy lots,” and thought that sown lawn grass seeds probably were eaten. Wenner and Hirth (1984) noted that Budgerigars fed on seeds of bahiagrass (Paspalum), but these were “rare events.” Population Size Shapiro (1979, 1980) and Wenner and Hirth (1984) monitored a Budgerigar roost in a residential development at Holiday from April through December 1978. They estimated that 6000 to 8000 birds used this roost “consistently” during that period, which may strengthen the hypothesis that Budgerigars in Florida mostly were sedentary. Shapiro’s estimate of up to 8000 Budgerigars at the Holiday roost is the largest total reported in Florida, surpassing even all multi-party C.B.C. totals (Table 394 North American Birds Budgerigar 1 ). The Holiday roost, which apparently no longer is active, was within the West Pasco C.B.C. circle, in which only 698 Budgerigars were found in December 1978 (Table 1) — no more than 11% of the numbers Shapiro estimated from the Holiday roost! Despite this apparently severe under- count, C.B.C. data offer the only means of determining the size of the overall Budgerigar population in Florida. To the figure of up to 8000 Budgerigars found within the West Pasco C.B.C. circle are added high counts from other regional C.B.C.s. Maximum counts for the two Pinellas County C.B.C.s (North Pinellas and St. Petersburg) were 740 and 5400, respectively. The highest count from the Tampa C.B.C. was 1 15 individu- als, while Manatee County C.B.C.s (Bradenton and Gulf Circle Manatee County) peaked at 470 and 57 Budgerigars, respectively. If the report of “705” Budgerigars on the 1974 Sarasota C.B.C. is discounted, then Sarasota County C.B.C.s (Sarasota and Venice-Englewood) contained up to 121 and 521 individuals, respectively. These totals add up to nearly 15,500 Budgerigars within eight coastal C.B.C. circles in a five-county area (Table 1). High totals on these C.B.C.s were obtained between 1975 and 1984, with most occurring during the 1976-1977 and 1978-1979 count periods. The highest cumulative C.B.C. total (6895 individuals) was obtained during the 1977-1978 count period (Table 1). Nearly all areas along the central Gulf coast of Florida occupied by Budgerigars were within C.B.C. circles, except for a substantial portion of mid-Pinellas County. This area, especially barrier island communities between Clearwater Beach and Redington Beach, contained many Budgerigars that never were counted on C.B.C.s. Lipp (1963) claimed that “thousands” of Budgerigars were present in one mobile home develop- ment at Redington Beach. While this estimate likely is an exaggeration, the presence of large numbers of Budgerigars on the barrier islands have been confirmed by others (Dill 1981, L. Atherton in litt., W. Biggs pers. comm.). When these individuals are added to the nearly 15,500 Budgerigars accounted for within C.B.C. circles, and further considering that large numbers may have been overlooked during C.B.C.s (e.g., see above), it seems reasonable to conclude that 20,000 or more Budgerigars may have occupied the central Gulf coast of Florida at the height of their abundance in the late 1970s. Currently, Budgerigars are restricted to small portions of Hernando and Pasco counties (Fig. 4), and cumulative totals on C.B.C.s have num- bered fewer than 100 individuals since the 1994-1995 count period (Table 1). All habitat at Hernando Beach is surveyed on the Aripeka-Bayport C.B.C., and it is thought that nearly all Budgerigars are counted (pers. obs.). A few small “colonies” may be overlooked on West Pasco C.B.C.s because of their more extensive range within that count circle; the non- C.B.C. total of 92 Budgerigars on the fall 2000 N.A.M.C. was mentioned previously. Probably no more than 150-200 Budgerigars remain in Hernando and Pasco counties, a figure that represents a greater than 99% decline in their rangewide numbers since the late 1970s. The extirpation of Budgerigars from Pinellas County is especially noteworthy because sev- eral thousand individuals occurred there previously (Table 1). Populations in Pasco County, while still extant, have declined severely in the past 1 5 to 20 years. Curiously, the number of Budgerigars reported on Florida C.B.C.s has remained relatively stable since the 1995-1996 count period, with a mean of 80 individuals (range 43-92; Table 1, Fig. 2). Nevertheless, the eventual extirpation of Budgerigars from Florida seems likely. Population Fluctuation C.B.C. data show a huge population increase during the mid-1970s, and a similarly dramatic decline through the 1980s (Fig. 2). Determining the causes of these fluctuations probably is impossible because the population was not under study during these periods, and published data (i.e., those on C.B.C.s) are limited to the non-breeding season. Cumulative totals for all C.B.C.s increased more than 1000% in two years, rising from 269 birds during 1972-1973 to 2910 individuals during 1974-1975 (Table 1). Most of this increase occurred at St. Petersburg, where numbers explod- ed from 90 to 1800 birds (Table 1 ). This huge increase over a short peri- od suggests that releases of large numbers of Budgerigars may have con- tinued into the mid-1970s. Perhaps even less certain than the causes of the population increase are the causes of its decline. Cumulative totals on C.B.C.s plummeted from 6895 Budgerigars during 1977-1978 to 385 birds ten years later (Table 1, Fig. 2). Potential causes of this decline include severely cold weather, nest box usurpation by House Sparrows, nest cavity usurpation by European Starlings {Sturnus vulgaris), a reduction in the number of nest boxes provided, disease or epizootic (Hoffman 1995), a “boom- and-bust” cycle characteristic of populations of several other exotic birds, and perhaps several other “unaccountable” factors (Robertson and Woolfenden 1992). C.B.C. data show that Budgerigar populations built up steadily through the late 1960s and early 1970s, peaked in the late 1970s, then rapidly declined through the 1980s to (in most cases) extir- pation by the early or mid-1990s (Table 1, Fig. 2). Every C.B.C. circle active during that period shows this trend, which suggests that the pop- ulation decline was rangewide and synchronous. The following section discusses five potential causes of the Budgerigar’s decline in Florida. Winter freezes. — A popular theory of the Budgerigar’s disappearance from most of its Florida range relates to the freezes that affected the cen- tral Peninsula during the period of the population decline. Between 1970 and 1999, four “extremely severe freezes” were recorded in the region: in January 1977, December 1983, January 1985, and December 1989 (Henry et al. 1994, R. Paul pers. comm.). Temperatures at Tampa dropped as low as -4° C during December 1989 (Henry et al 1994), However, C.B.C. data show no Budgerigar declines in the years follow- ing three of these freezes; in fact, the highest cumulative C.B.C. total was obtained 11-12 months after the January 1977 freeze (Table 1, Fig. 2). Only following the January 1985 freeze do subsequent C.B.C. totals reflect a noticeable decline in Budgerigar numbers (Fig. 2). But the apparent lack of effects of the three other freezes, coupled with the downward trend already obvious in the population by the mid-1980s (Fig. 2), suggests that any link between the January 1985 freeze and declining Budgerigar numbers is only a coincidence. Several other points seem to rule out freezing temperatures as a cause of the Budgerigar’s decline. The first is that cold temperatures rarely cause direct mortality of birds; a lack of food — often caused by extreme weather events (e.g., sudden freezes or heavy snow cover) — is more often the culprit. Second, Budgerigars routinely experience near-freezing or freezing temperatures at night in Australia (R. Jack, L. Joseph, A. Burton, A. Overs in litt.), so they can tolerate cold temperatures to some degree. Third, given their high rate of reproduction in Florida (Shapiro 1979, 1980), it seems likely that the Budgerigar population would have rebounded in the 1990s following the freeze in December 1989. A simi- lar weather-related cyclic pattern is shown by Carolina Wrens [Thryothorus ludovicianus) in the northern limits of their range (Haggerty 1995). And fourth, all Budgerigars remaining in Florida are found in the two northernmost counties of their previous range, where temperatures are a few degrees lower than areas to the south (e.g., Hudson vs. Sarasota areas; Henry et al. 1994). If freezing temperatures caused the decline of Budgerigars, then one might have expected the northernmost population to have disappeared first, when in fact, it is the only one that has persisted. Cavity competition. — Budgerigars in Florida have nested in natural and artificial cavities such as snags (Woolfenden 1963, Shapiro 1979, Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 395 1981, Cruickshank 1980, L. Atherton in litt., W. Biggs pers. comm.)j davits (cranes used to lower and raise boats; Shapiro 1979, 1981, D. Freeman in litt., M. Wilkinson in litt.), street lamps (Shapiro 1979, 1981), and axils of Cabbage Palms {Sabal palmetto-, G.E. Woolfenden in Stevenson 1963), but the majority of the population used custom-built “Budgie boxes.” The small cavity entrance of these boxes kept out European Starlings, but House Sparrows could enter easily (cf. Eig. 5). Wenner and Hirth (1984) noted that Budgerigars at Holiday were “heav- ily dependent” on nest boxes, and that House Sparrows were their only competitor for this resource. Shapiro (1979) observed “many instances” when House Sparrows entered nest boxes occupied by Budgerigars, punctured and removed the eggs, and usurped the box. House Sparrows continue to compete with Budgerigars over nest boxes, and some resi- dents at Holiday have reported local extirpations of Budgerigars due to House Sparrows as recently as 1999 {fide K. Tracey). The percentage of Budgerigars that bred in natural cavities in Florida is unknown, but probably it was a small fraction of those that nested in boxes. Budgerigars that nested in natural cavities apparently could not compete successfully with European Starlings (L. Atherton in litt., W. Biggs pers. comm.), which increased as a breeding species in Florida between 1969 and 1983 (Cox 1987). All published observations of Budgerigars nesting in natural cavities were in the 1960s and 1970s. Reduction of nest boxes. — Probably every breeding population of Budgerigars in Florida was sustained by human residents who derived great satisfaction in having the birds nest and feed in their yards (Shapiro 1979, 1980, Wenner and Hirth 1984). Many residents provided multiple “apartment” nest boxes where a dozen or more pairs could breed simultaneously (photographs in Shapiro 1981). At least one Budgerigar population, at Madeira Beach on the barrier island in mid- Pinellas County, was impacted by a reduction in the number of residents who provided nest boxes. Redevelopment of this area from a retirement community to tourist-oriented motels and condominiums drove away the elderly residents who lived there, and this caused extirpation of the local Budgerigar population (L. Atherton in litt.). At Holiday and New Port Richey today, few yards still contain Budgerigar nest boxes (pers. obs.), undoubtedly because the birds largely have vanished from those areas. Disease or epizootic. — Price ( 1980 in Friend et al. 2001 ) claimed that, “...parasites affect the life and death of practically every other organism.” Nolan et al. (1998) estimated that tens of millions (emphasis added) of House Finches (Carpodacus mexicanus) were killed in the eastern United States by an outbreak of mycoplasmal conjunctivitis between 1994 and 1996. Friend et al. (2001) sutnmarized 31 examples of diseases causing mortality of birds and other wildlife around the world. Budgerigars are known vectors of numerous diseases such as chlamydiosis (“parrot fever”), salmonellosis, and Newcastle disease (references in Shapiro 1979). In Florida, Budgerigars roosted in large flocks, often with other species such as Mourning Doves {Zenaida macroura), American Robins {Turdus migratorius), European Starlings, and icterids (Shapiro 1979, 1981, Dill 1981, Wenner and Hirth 1984, pers. obs.), so the potential for widespread transmission of diseases or parasites was great. Hoffman (1995) believed that disease played a role in the Budgerigar’s decline in Florida, but there seems to be no direct evidence to support this theory. One might have expected that numbers of “sick” or dead Budgerigars would have been noticed by the human residents in whose neighbor- hoods the birds roosted, bred, and fed. For example, a die-off of 100 Eurasian Collared-Doves (Streptopelia decaocto) at St. Petersburg in June 2001, attributed to a pathogen, was publicized in the press (e.g., Hollingsworth 2001). No similar report of Budgerigar deaths in Florida is known to have been published (e.g., Stevenson and Anderson 1994). “Boom and bust.” — Populations of several exotic birds in North America have shown a rapid increase followed by a decline to, in some cases, extirpation. In southeastern Florida, populations of the Canary- winged [now White-winged] Parakeet {Brotogeris versicolurus) and Spot-breasted Oriole (Icterus pectoralis) declined in the late 1970s and early 1980s (Robertson and Woolfenden 1992, Smith and Smith 1993, Brightsmith 1999), which corresponds with the period of the Budgerigar’s decline in west-central Florida. The decline of the oriole was attributed to freeze-related damage to fruiting plants on which the orioles fed (Robertson and Woolfenden 1992), but no clear cause was evident for the decline of White-winged Parakeets (Robertson and Woolfenden 1992, Smith and Smith 1993, Brightsmith 1999). Carrett (1993) noted a similar decline of White- winged Parakeets in southern California during the same period. Crested Mynas {Acridotheres cristatel- lus) at Vancouver, British Columbia declined from many thousands of individuals in the 1920s and 1930s to fewer than 100 by the mid-1990s (Johnson and Campbell 1995). The causes of the myna’s decline were thought to be increased competition with European Starlings for nesting sites, loss of agricultural foraging areas from development, maladapta- tion to the local climate, and a reduction of nesting sites due to changes in building structures (Johnson and Campbell 1995). Conclusion Because the size of the Budgerigar population has remained severely depressed since the freeze in December 1989, some factor other than weather probably caused the decline and continues to keep numbers low. This factor could be competition for resources. Availability of food was probably never a limiting factor for Budgerigars, as they and other granivorous species of heavily suburbanized areas (primarily doves, icterids, and House Sparrows) were provided with a virtually limitless supply of commercial bird seed at many feeders (Shapiro 1979, 1980, 1981, Wenner and Hirth 1984). Competition over nesting sites may have been the primary cause of the Budgerigar’s decline and may be the fac- tor that has prevented the population from recovering. Competition with House Sparrows over nest boxes is the only potential cause of the Budgerigar’s population decline that is supported by Shapiro’s (1979) demographic study. Acknowledgments Numerous individuals responded to my requests for information on Budgerigar occurrences in Australia or Florida, and I thank them here: Lyn Atherton, Wes Biggs, Allison Bishop, John Boyd, Andy Burton, Judy Caughley, Judy Fisher, Frank Frazier (deceased). Dot Freeman, Chuck Ceanangel, Bev Hansen, Rhetta Jack, Leo Joseph, Katrina Knight, Anthony Overs, Ann and Rich Paul, Hugo Phillipps, Don Robinson, Roland Seitre, Lee Snyder, Don Ware, Margie Wilkinson, Stewart Williamson, and especially Ken Tracey. Those who provided other assis- tance or comments were Enrique Bucher, Sally Conyne, Karen Mabb, John O’Neill, Rich Paul, and Peter Them. Bruce Anderson, Wes Biggs, Ann Bruce, Todd Engstrom, Doug McNair, Sally Treat, Annamaria Van Doom, and George Wallace provided copies of important references. 1 am most grateful to Ned Brinkley, Kimball Garrett, Stephanie Johnson, Paul Lehman, Doug McNair, Michael Patten, George Wallace, and espe- cially P. William Smith for improving drafts of the manuscript. I thank Dave Goodwin, Al and Bev Hansen, Don Robinson, Don Woodard, and Paul Young for their long-term participation in the Aripeka-Bayport and West Pasco C.B.C.s, which has helped to document changes in the Budgerigar population. Finally, I am grateful to my parents. Holly Lovell for support, and to Glen Woolfenden and the late Herb Kale for improv- ing my writing. 396 Budgerigar Literature oited A.O.U. [American Ornithologists’ Union], 1998. Check-list of North American Birds. Seventh edition. American Ornithologists’ Union, Washington, D.C. Atherton, L.S., and B.H. Atherton. 1982. Florida region [Fall 1981 report]. American Birds 36: 168-171. Bannon, R, S. Denault, Y. Aubrey, and N. David. 2001. Quebec [Fall 2000 report]. North American Birds 55: 23-25. Brightsmith, D. 1999. White-winged Parakeet {Brotogeris versicolurus) and Yellow-chevroned Parakeet {Brotogeris chiriri). In The Birds of North America, No. 386-387 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Birds of North America, Inc., Philadelphia. Clubb, S.L. 1992. The role of private aviculture in the conservation of Neotropical psittacines. Pages 117-131 in New World Parrots in Crisis: Solutions from Conservation Biology (S.R. Beissinger and N.F.R. Snyder, eds.). Smithsonian Institution Press, Washington, D.C. Cooke, M.T., and P. Knappen. 1941. Some birds naturalized in North America. Transactions of the fifth North American Wildlife Conference 5: 176-183. Cox, J. 1987. The Breeding Bird Survey in Florida: 1969-1983. Florida Field Naturalist 15: 29-44. Cruickshank, A.D. 1980. The Birds of Brevard County. Florida Press, Orlando. del Hoyo, J., A. Elliott, and J. Sargatal, eds. 1997. Handbook of Birds of the World, Vol. 4, Sandgrouse to Cuckoos. Lynx Edicions, Barcelona. Dill, G. 1981. Tracing the roots of the Suncoast free-flying Budgie. Suncoast News, 25 April 1981. Duncan, R.A., and L.R. Duncan 2000. The Birds of Escambia, Santa Rosa, and Okaloosa Counties, Florida. Second edition. Self-published. Edscorn, J.B. 1976. Florida region [Fall 1975 report]. American Birds 30: 54-59. Edscorn, J.B. 1977. Florida region [Fall 1976 report]. American Birds 31: 166-169. Forshaw, J.M. 1977. Parrots of the World. Second edition. T.F.H. Publications, Inc., Neptune, New Jersey. Friend, M., R.G. McLean, and F.J. Dein. 2001. Disease emergence in birds: challenges for the twenty-first century. Auk 118: 290-303. Garrett, K.L. 1993. Canary-winged Parakeets: the southern California perspective. Birding 25: 430-431. Haggerty, T.M. 1995. Carolina Wren {Thryothorus ludovicianus) . In The Birds of North America, No. 188. (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.) Philadelphia, Academy of Natural Sciences, and Washington, D.C., American Ornithologists’ Union. Henry, J.A., K.M. Portier, and N. Coyne. 1994. The Climate and Weather of Florida. Pineapple Press, Sarasota. Hoffman, W. 1995. Exotic birds in the avifauna. Birding 27: 15-20. Hollingsworth, J. 2001. Mysterious malady killing St. Petersburg area doves. Tampa Tribune, 7 June 2001. Johnson, S.R., and R.W. Campbell. 1995. Crested Myna {Acridotheres cristatellus). In The Birds of North America, No. 157 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Academy of Natural Sciences, Philadelphia, PA, and The American Ornithologists’ Union, Washington, D.C. Juniper, T., and M. Parr. 1998. Parrots: A Guide to Parrots of the World. Yale University Press, New Haven, CT. Kale, H.W., 11. 1977. Florida region [Spring 1977 report]. American Birds 31: 988-992. Kale, H.W., II, B. Pranty, B.M. Stith, and C.W. Biggs. 1992. The Atlas of the Breeding Birds of Florida. Final report to Nongame Wildlife Program, Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission, Tallahassee. Lipp, F. 1963. Parakeet city — a tourist attraction. Florida Naturalist 36(1B): 1. [Not found]. Loftin, R.W., G.E. Woolfenden, and J.A. Woolfenden. 1991. Florida bird records in American Birds and Audubon Field Notes (1947-1989): Species index and county gazetteer. Florida Ornithological Society Special Publication No. 4, Gainesville. Long, J.L. 1981. Introduced Birds of the World: The Worldwide History, Distribution, and Influence of Birds Introduced to New Environments. A.H. 8( A.W. Reed Pty. Ltd., Sydney. Nolan, P.M., G.E. Hill, and A.M. Stoehr. 1998. Sex, size, and plumage redness predict House Finch survival in an epidemic. Proceedings of the Royal Society of London, Series B 265: 961-965. Ogden, J.C. 1972. Florida region [Summer 1972 report]. American Birds 26: 847-852. Ogden, J.C. 1973. Florida region [Summer 1973 report]. American Birds 27: 859-863. Owre, O.T. 1973. A consideration of the exotic avifauna of southeast- ern Florida. Wilson Bulletin 85: 491-500. Pantelidis, V.S., and H.M. Stevenson. 1969. Florida region [Spring 1969 report]. Audubon Field Notes 23: 581-583. Pranty, B. 2000. Field observations winter report: December 1999- February 2000. Florida Field Naturalist 28: 127-137. Pranty, B. In prep. Abundance and distribution of the Monk Parakeet in Florida. Pranty, B., and S. Epps. In review. The exotic parrot fauna of Broward County, Florida. Robertson, W.B., Jr. 1972. Florida region [Fall 1971 report]. American Birds 26: 50-54. Robertson, W.B., Jr., and G.E. Woolfenden. 1992. Florida Bird Species: An Annotated List. Florida Ornithological Society Special Publication No. 6, Gainesville. Rowan, R. In prep. An annotated checklist of the birds of Alachua County, Florida: A historical perspective, 1886-2001. Rowan, R., and M. Manetz. 1995. A Birdwatchers’ Guide to Alachua County, Florida. Self-published. Shapiro, A.E. 1979. Status, habitat utilization, and breeding biology of the feral Budgerigar [Melopsittacus undulatus) in Florida. M.Sc. Thesis, University of Florida, Gainesville. Shapiro, A.E. 1980. Florida’s Budgies are here to stay. Florida Naturalist 53(3): 7-9. Shapiro, A.[E]. 1981. Melopsittacus undu-WHAT? Florida Wildlife 34(6):28-30. Smith, P.W., and S.A. Smith. 1993. An exotic dilemma for birders: the Canary-winged Parakeet. Birding 25: 426-430. Stevenson, H.M. 1963. Florida region [Summer 1963 report]. Audubon Field Notes 17: 454-457. Stevenson, H.M. 1964. Florida region [Summer 1964 report]. Audubon Field Notes 18: 503-505. Stevenson, H.M., and B.H. Anderson. 1994. The Birdlife of Florida. University Press of Florida, Gainesville. Wenner, A.S., and D.H. Hirth. 1984. Status of the feral Budgerigar in Florida. Journal of Field Ornithology 55: 214-219. Woolfenden, G.[E.] 1963. St. Petersburg, Fla. [1962-1963 Christmas Bird Count]. Audubon Field Notes 17: 166-167. Woolfenden, G.E., B. Pranty, and R.D. Goodwin. 1994. North Pinellas Christmas Bird Count, 1985. Florida Field Naturalist 22: 83-84. — Received 20 June 2001, accepted 20 November 2001. Volume 55 {2001), Number 4 397 The Changing Seasons Stephen J. Dinsmore Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Mississippi State University Box 9690 Mississippi State, Mississippi 39762 (sdinsmore@cfr.msstate.edu) Ah, the summer birding doldrums. But wait — is summer birding real- ly that uninteresting? The flow at our favorite migrant trap has typ- ically slowed to a few drips by early June and is shut off completely by month’s end, so we switch our interest to local breeding species. This is, after all, the primary breeding season for most temperate-zone birds and a time for us to study carefully what is occurring during this critical seg- ment of their annual cycle. Summer also provides much-needed rest from hectic spring birding and exhausting Big Days. Myriad activities keep us active in the field each summer, including participation in state breeding bird atlas projects (New York and Maryland are each beginning work on their second comprehensive atlas projects, and several of the California counties are finishing their seconds), volunteering to help with local breeding bird studies, assisting with long-term monitoring projects (mainly for federal- and state-listed species), and perhaps run- ning our favorite Breeding Bird Survey route(s). A few weeks later, and even sooner than that in some regions, we enjoy the onset of fall migra- tion with the return of shorebirds (late June hardly seems like fall, but it is for many members of this group) and the post-breeding dispersal of other species, notably herons. In many parts of the West, mid-summer is proving to be a good time to look for stray eastern passerines, most probably holdovers from spring migration. And yes, there are also a few vagrants to pique our interest. All of this adds up to make summer a very exciting season, even though it lasts a mere two months! The purpose of the “Changing Seasons” essay has been discussed in detail by several past authors, so I’ll refrain from a thorough re-hashing of their points. North American Birds aims to provide a series of region- al “snapshots” of what is occurring seasonally in North and Central America. The “Changing Seasons” provides a tight summary of the main themes of the regional “snapshots.” This column is a place to discuss pat- terns that occur across regional boundaries and a place to highlight exceptional rarities and other notable records. It is also a venue to dis- cuss patterns (e.g., range expansions) that cross both regions and sea- sons. What follows is a brief synopsis of some of the more interesting patterns that struck me as I read the regional reports. This summer also saw its share of notable rarities, many of them representing first state, provincial, or country nesting records, and I have highlighted these where appropriate. 1 encourage you to read the regional reports for addi- tional details on these sightings, many of them detailed in Special Attention (S.A.) boxes. Enjoy! Weather patterns Weather during the 2001 nesting season was unexceptional. Continentally, the season began with a series of moderate cold fronts marching across the eastern two-thirds of the continent, resulting in localized rainfall and snow and below normal temperatures. By mid- June, most of the continent was experiencing normal summer weather patterns, and this trend continued for the remainder of the period. Few tropical cyclones formed this summer, and the only storm to affect the United States’ mainland was Tropical Storm Allison, which hit parts of the Southeast in early June and traveled up the Eastern Seaboard, inun- This Mississippi Kite photographed at Amos, Abitibi was the first for Quebec and possibly one of the northernmost in North America. The proliferation of this species well to the north of normal range is one of the more remarkable stories of recent summers. Photograph by M. Lafleur. dating the Texas Gulf Coast and contributing tremendous amounts of precipitation as far north as New England. On a finer scale, the regional weather patterns were more variable, although few were noted as being extreme. Dry conditions prevailed in the East (except for localized areas in the Southeast affected by Allison), and there were above-average temperatures in the Northeast and more normal temperatures in the Southeast. The mid-continent experienced cool, wet weather in early June, after which seasonably hot and dry con- ditions were widely reported. Farther west, the weather was even more variable. Parts of the northern Rocky Mountains and the Great Basin were exceptionally dry, while many areas of the Southwest received nor- mal or above-normal rainfall. A major snowstorm in western Montana in early June (up to 15 inches locally) was unusual. Temperatures in this region were generally normal or slightly above normal. The Pacific Coast experienced wet conditions along the northern reaches, with drier conditions typifying the southern reaches; this entire region experienced normal or above-normal temperatures this summer. The Hawaiian Islands continued to experience long-term drought conditions, although above-average rainfall this summer might help reverse that trend. The only comment about weather patterns in Mexico was that it was very rainy throughout the period; weather conditions in the Central America and the West Indies regions were not noted. Reports of breeding success from multiple regions indicated this was generally a good year, although the paucity of such reports makes any firm conclusions tentative at best. Broad-scale breeding failures were 398 North American Birds reported only in western Alaska and resulted from a cooler-than-normal spring. Spotty drought conditions in the prairies — combined with greater-than-normal summer reports of certain species south of their breeding ranges — made me wonder if there were widespread nesting failures for American White Pelicans and Franklin’s Gulls. As with any reporting system that relies on voluntary submissions, we generally hear about the extremes (species doing extremely well, or very poorly) and seldom hear reports when a species performance is closer to “normal.” As noted by Bruce Mactavish in the Atlantic Provinces, “The lack of com- ments on the breeding success, positive or negative, indicates an average breeding season for birds.” Knowledge of this reporting bias should tem- per our broader conclusions, although it often does not. BREEDING SPECIES The nesting season is a time to pay particular attention to the primary reproductive period of birds. Our careful observations of breeding birds can help delineate range expansions (and contractions) and occasionally provide insight into general patterns in the population trends of some species. Collectively, this information is extremely useful. Range expansions For a variety of reasons, many birds are expanding their known breeding ranges, some at lightning speed and some at a much slower pace. The mid-continent, a region of particular interest to me, provides an inter- esting example of increasing bird populations. There, several range expansions are underway, some because of true population increases, some because birders are simply looking harder, and some from a com- bination of these and possibly other factors. Biologists often suggest these changes are due to broad-scale habitat alterations, such as those brought about by conservation programs (e.g., the Conservation Reserve Program and land purchases by Ducks Unlimited, the North American Waterfowl Management Plan, and others). But northward expansions in breeding ranges are also thought to result from global warming (Thomas and Lennon 1999), although this pattern is correlative at best. Whatever the cause, it is clear that some species are indeed expanding. One species that seems to be doing exceptionally well in the mid-con- tinent is Mississippi Kite. I remember when, less than 10 years ago, even an isolated sight record in some parts of the upper Midwest was extraor- dinary. Now, they are regular migrants and local breeders there, and a hawkwatch in western Iowa recorded over 30 migrant kites last fall alone! Yikes! This northward expansion has originated from core breeding areas reaching as far north as central Kansas, central Missouri, and southern Illinois. Small breeding outposts persisted this summer in western Nebraska, central Iowa, and probably at a few as yet undiscov- ered sites in this region, while new expansion was noted in Illinois, Indiana, and western Missouri. Meanwhile, in the southeastern United States, they are also slowly expanding; in addition to the expected reports in the Central Southern Region, nesting occurred at multiple sites in North Carolina, while up to four individuals each were reported in Quebec (first provincial record), at several sites along the Atlantic Coast north to Massachusetts, and in Maryland, Virginia, Kentucky, and Tennessee. Less expected were sightings in Nevada and far northern Arizona. As Mississippi Kites slowly reoccupy much of their former breeding range, we can only hope the same will eventually happen for Swallow-tailed Kites, whose populations have not shown increases in recent years. Black Rail is one of the most secretive and little-known birds in North America, so news of large breeding populations is always welcome, espe- cially in the interior, where there are but a few scattered known breeding locales. A late June nocturnal survey of selected wetlands along the Arkansas River Valley in southeastern Colorado turned up an impressive 74 calling birds; just how many individuals breed in this area is unknown, but it could easily number in the low hundreds (read the Mountain West regional report for additional details). Away from coastal North Carolina, this may represent the species’s largest known breeding population, and it is almost certainly the largest known inland population in North America. Farther north, intensive searches in west- ern Nebraska turned up a single calling bird in a part of the state with several previous summer reports. At the southwestern limit of the breed- ing range, a small colony was rediscovered in Baja California, a popula- tion thought extirpated since 1928. Just how many breeding Black Rails remain undiscovered is tantalizing to ponder. In many parts of the inte- rior, so little serious searching has been done that they could actually be locally common in the appropriate habitat. And given their secretive nature and late night calling habits, they can be surprisingly difficult to detect, even in areas they are known to occupy. Maybe it’s time for bird- ers in the mid-continent to burn the midnight oil and mount a serious effort to locate more Black Rails. Where will the next discovery occur? Another species on the move, at least in mid-continent, is Sandhill Crane. The Greater Sandhill Crane {Grus canadensis tabida) has in the last two decades colonized southern Wisconsin, southeastern Minnesota, northeastern Iowa, northern Illinois, and northwestern Pennsylvania, with a couple of isolated nesting records in south-central Nebraska (Sharpe et al. 2001). This pattern of expansion continued this summer with possible breeding noted in northwestern Ohio and southeastern Ontario; stragglers were in New Hampshire and Maine (is breeding pos- sible in this region in the near future?). There is ample unoccupied nest- ing habitat in northwestern Iowa, western Minnesota, eastern South Dakota, and probably other parts of the upper Midwest; how long (note that the word “if” is not in this question) will it take for cranes to occu- py these areas? The continued expansion of Eurasian Collared- Doves certainly merits a brief discussion here (see Romagosa and McEneaney 2000 for more details). Despite the fact that they have been mentioned in many of the recent “Changing Seasons” essays, I couldn’t resist the temptation to dis- cuss them again. The explosion in their numbers has continued unabat- ed, especially in the Great Plains, where they are now found in most of the larger towns north to western Nebraska, eastern Wyoming, and northeastern Colorado; observer effort is low farther north, but I suspect they are rapidly colonizing those areas as well. First state nesting records were reported in Iowa and Minnesota this summer. They are consoli- dating their range in the interior southeastern United States, with numerous records this summer from Mississippi, Arkansas, and Tennessee; an indication of their abundance in this region was the pres- ence of a roost of 303 birds in Florida in mid-July, now a “typical” count. In the West, they continue to thrive in eastern New Mexico, and a pair was nesting in southern California (see Leukering 2001 for more details on their colonization of the southwestern U.S.). On the edge of their present range (this statement could well be obsolete by the time this is published) there were one to three birds each in Wisconsin, Idaho, Virginia, and Delaware. There is concern that Eurasian Collared-Doves could negatively impact native species, especially the Mourning Dove (Romagosa and McEneaney 2000). With this sobering thought. I’m pret- ty certain their rapid expansion is nothing to cheer about, unless they become supplemental accipiter food. Ted Floyd noted they “stormed into Nevada this summer” (first and second state records); too bad they probably won’t storm out just as quickly. White-winged Dove is another species that is showing signs of a breeding range expansion. It is occurring more frequently east of its reg- ular breeding range, with possible nesting in Nebraska this summer. Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 399 close on the heels of a nest in northeastern Kansas last spring (L. Moore, pers. comm.); strays were widespread and were found as far afield as New Brunswick, Ontario, New York (Long Island), Pennsylvania, Delaware, North Carolina, Florida (several outside their normal range there), Alabama, and Manitoba. With the recent nesting record from North Carolina in 1998, it may not be too long before this species breeds else- where along the Atlantic Coast, although there is at least some debate as to the source of these birds (see Davis 1998). Scissor-tailed Flycatcher is a species that wanders widely and occa- sionally nests at locales far from its normal breeding range. This sum- mer it was reported continent-wide in Newfoundland, Maine, Virginia (two). North Carolina (a nest), Georgia (another nest), Alabama (rare but increasing breeder with 1 new nesting locale this year), Ontario (2), Tennessee (two nesting pairs plus a single bird), Mississippi, Wisconsin (2, including one reported as an immature on the unlikely date of 30 June), Illinois (a nest), Kentucky, Nebraska, Montana, Colorado, Arizona, and California (two). Wow — ^that’s a lot of lost flycatchers! The emerging pattern shows a slow breeding-range expansion in the mid- continent and Southeast, along with widespread vagrancy to the north of the breeding range and throughout the West (all non-breeders so far). Clay-colored Sparrow is another species that may be slowly expanding its breeding range, especially in the eastern U.S. This summer it was noted as “solidly established” in northern New York. Wayward individu- als, many of them singing birds (and thus potential breeders), were in Yukon Territory, New Brunswick, Quebec (hybridizing with a Chipping Sparrow — a potential identification problem if they successfully pro- duced offspring!), Ontario, Iowa, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, West Virginia, and Maryland. Extralimital reports in the West were fewer but included Idaho’s first nesting record and a single bird in eastern Washington, where sporadic breeding is known. A final species of interest here is Henslow’s Sparrow. It was widely reported this summer, despite the fact that its inconspicuous nature makes it harder to detect than most other grassland sparrows. Almost any discussion of declining grassland birds in eastern North America quickly leads to this species, although the picture painted this summer (and in fact for the last several years) is anything but grim. They were widely reported in southern Ontario, New York, Pennsylvania (news of “hundreds” in the western part of the state was encouraging). New Jersey (“more... than in recent years”), Minnesota (reports from eight counties statewide were above normal), Arkansas, Kansas, and Nebraska. In the Middlewestern Prairie Region, Ken Brock noted they were “...reported in good numbers, but were not quite as plentiful as last summer.” The real news came from farther west, where first nesting records were recorded in both North Dakota (two nests) and South Dakota. I suspect this apparent increase in their breeding range is a combination of sever- al factors, only one of which may be a true population increase. Other explanations include shifts in distribution that reflect habitat changes (e.g., those caused by large-scale Conservation Reserve Programs), or simply the fact that birders there are looking harder. The latter explana- tion is especially appealing in the Great Plains, where birding coverage is particularly sparse. Stephen Stedman alluded to this detectability prob- lem in an earlier “Changing Seasons” column (Stedman 1998), and I con- cur with his thoughts; the message “if you look, you will find” may be especially true with Henslow’s Sparrows. I’ll pause a moment for a few final thoughts on range expansions. As I read through the regional reports, I am struck by how little mention there is of two other expanding species: Great-tailed Crackle and Shiny Cowbird. I know the grackle is still expanding in mid-continent (pers. obs.) and the southern Far West (it is mentioned in the Middle Pacific Coast through British Columbia regional reports), but the cowbird may have slowed its spread since the mid-1990s (Pranty 2000). In terms of range expansions, it appears that at present, doves are “in” and icterids are “out.” I concur with the urgings of past columnists here to monitor aggressively those species undergoing rapid range expansions. Birders need to make a more conscious effort to report sightings of all such expanding species so that we can later look back and have a sharper image of their pattern of expansion. Species of special concern Bald Eagles have continued their remarkable recovery from population lows in the 1960s and 1970s and were mentioned in almost all of the regional reports. Increases in breeding numbers were noted in the Hudson-Delaware region (New York’s breeding population has doubled twice since 1991), Ontario, Nebraska, and Kansas, and there were 1,102 territories counted in a survey of Florida (the greatest total since the sur- vey began in 1973). Successful nesting occurred throughout the Middlewestern Prairie Region, several new nests were found in North Dakota, there was a suggestion of breeding in New Mexico, and they con- tinued to recover as a breeding species in California. Additionally, there were numerous scattered reports from the edges of the present breeding range. Perhaps nowhere is this rapid increase more evident than in Iowa, where they have increased from a single nest in 1977 (the first since pre- 1900) to eight in 1990, 84 in 1998 (Ehresman 1999), and about 130 nests in 2001 (B. L. Ehresman, pers. comm.)! This summer was generally good news for the federally listed Piping Plover as well. A record four pairs bred at St. Pierre et Miquelon at the northeastern limit of their breeding range. They apparently did well on the central Atlantic Coast (Delaware and New Jersey), where increased numbers of nesting pairs were counted, although productivity was down slightly in some areas. Breeding success was not noted farther south, although near-average numbers of breeding pairs were present in both Maryland and Virginia. The Great Lakes’ breeding population had 32 nesting pairs this year, including a nest at Green Bay, Wisconsin, the first local nesting record since 1941. Single birds at two locations in Ontario in early June were probably late spring migrants. The Great Plains pop- ulation, the largest in North America, received few comments and thus one hopes experienced near-normal breeding success. Nesting numbers in Iowa were down to four pairs, but farther west there were record num- bers (43+ pairs) nesting at Lake McConaughy in western Nebraska and an encouraging five pairs (is this really that encouraging?) nested in southeastern Colorado. The news was decidedly mixed regarding other imperiled birds. On the bright side, a total of 1,085 male Kirtland’s Warblers was counted in Michigan, the most since surveys began in 1951. There was also opti- mistic news about Black-capped Vireos in Oklahoma, although this may or may not have been aided by an active cowbird control program there (see Grzybowski and Pease 1999, Ortega 2000). The news was not so good for Hawaiian Crows (‘Alala), now down to a single wild pair; this species may soon follow the trail of the California Condor and exist largely in captive or assisted settings. Notable breeding records In addition to the above reports, there were many exceptional state and provincial nesting records this summer. Some of the more noteworthy reports included Red-necked Grebe in Iowa (second state nesting record), Leach’s Storm-Petrel in Massachusetts (second nesting locale for the state). Tricolored Heron in Massachusetts (first nesting since the mid-1970s). Wood Stork in Alabama (first state nesting record), Gadwall in northern Mexico (first nesting record for that country), Bufflehead in South Dakota (second state nesting record). Purple Gallinule in 400 North American Birds Changing Seasons Oklahoma (second state nesting record), Wilson’s Phalarope in Alaska (first state nesting record) and in Massachusetts, Heermann’s Gulls (again) in northern California, Boreal Owl in New Hampshire (first state and Regional nesting record), Yellow-bellied Sapsucker in Alaska (third state nesting record), Chimney Swift in New Mexico (first state nesting record), Alder Flycatcher in Indiana (first state nesting record), Scissor- tailed Flycatchc in Illinois (second state nesting record). White-eyed Vireo in Minnesota (second state nesting record), Northern Wheatear and Brown Thrasher in Newfoundland (first provincial nesting records), Golden-winged Warbler and Scarlet Tanager (in the Black Hills) in South Dakota (first state nesting records). Yellow throated Warbler in Minnesota (second state nesting rexcord). Black-throated Gray Warbler in Montana (first state nesting record), and White-throated Sparrow in Illinois (first state nesting record). In the “probable breeding” category there were also a couple of notable reports, including Short-eared Owls in North Carolina and three potential firsts for El Salvador: Zone-tailed Hawk, Green (Red-throated) Parakeet, and Common Nighthawk. Miscellaneous Several interesting nesting records did not fit into the above categories. Avoiding drought in the Great Basin, many waterbirds moved into the Pacific Northwest, and as a result, first nestings of White-faced Ibis in Washington, of Black-necked Stilt and Black Tern in western Washington, and Black-necked Stilt in Oregon were recorded. Wayne Petersen noted the continued decline in the number of nesting waders in New England, although they apparently did well in New York this sum- mer (except for Cattle Egrets, which continue to decline Regionwide as a breeder). Common Eiders continued to consolidate their breeding range in New England, with a report of a group of 214 ducklings in Boston Harbor. That’s a lot of duckling-kabobs for the local Great Black-backed Gull population! It was encouraging to learn of at least four Merlin nests in the Twin Cities area of Minnesota; hopefully this southward expansion into urban areas will continue. Common Nighthawks were almost uni- versally lamented as “disappearing” from urban areas across the conti- nent, whereas many species of diurnal raptors appear to be acclimating to cities and nesting in close proximity to human activities (New York City had eight nesting raptor species!), a trend seen in Europe in the last decade as well. A successful ground-nesting attempt by Flammulated Owls in Montana was probably unprecedented for that species. Golden- winged Warblers continue to lose ground against Blue-winged, but note the stable proportions in some parts of upstate New York, where the two apparently segregate by habitat. Finally, a comment on the decline of Horned Larks in southern Saskatchewan (see the Prairie Provinces regional report) caught my eye; this species is super-abundant in adja- cent northeast Montana (pers. obs.). What’s up on the Canadian side of the border? NONBREEDING SPECIES While the emphasis in summer is on breeding species, there are also many reports of nonbreeders that draw our interest. The “summer” sea- son, defined by arbitrary dates to include the months of June and July, means little to the birds we study. Northbound migrants of many species (White-rumped Sandpiper, both cuckoos, several species of Empidonax, Mourning Warbler, and many others) are still widespread as migrants in early June, and this pattern was especially evident this year with the cool weather pattern in late spring and early summer. Conversely, fall migra- tion for a few species (most shorebirds, several hummingbirds. Yellow Warbler, orioles, and others) can be well underway by early or mid-July, and for some even earlier and at a time when the aforementioned species are still heading north. In addition, many Arctic and boreal breeders reg- ularly summer south of their breeding ranges, while pelagic birds dis- perse north in fall (our spring) to spend their winter (our summer) in northern oceans. All of this means that there are many nonbreeding species to draw our attention during the summer months. The examples that follow highlight some of the more interesting such observations this summer. Summer loons Over the past decade, and perhaps a little earlier, birders have been care- fully studying and identifying loons summering south of their respective breeding ranges. As a result, we have seen a proliferation of records of unusual loons to the point that we cannot automatically assume they are all Common Loons. The summer 2001 season was no exception. Many loons other than Common Loons were reported, further dispelling the old assumption that most of these nonbreeders are Common Loons. Red-throated Loons were reported from several Great Lakes states (most were in early June, probably representing late spring migrants), in coastal Alabama (first summer record for the state), and a few summered off Baja California. Inland Pacific Loons were reported from Iowa, Nebraska, Texas, Idaho, Colorado, and at the Salton Sea in southern California, in addition to the normal scattering along the Pacific Coast. The only Yellow-billed Loon report was from interior British Columbia. This smattering of interesting loons should certainly make us continue to carefully scrutinize all summer loons seen away from the breeding ranges. Pelagic birds This summer saw the continued saga of extraordinary pelagic finds off both coasts. The regular tubenoses were generally reported as numerous off the East Coast, especially numbers of Greater Shearwaters and Wilson’s Storm-Petrels (see the Middle Atlantic Coast report for details on their occurrence in the Chesapeake Bay). Regular trips to the Gulf Stream off Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, produced another Bermuda Petrel in addition to the more expected Fea’s and Herald Petrels. But even more extraordinary was the presence of Manx Shearwaters, nor- mally rare in summer off North Carolina; one was also noted off Bermuda. Farther north, Manx Shearwaters were reported in good numbers, including a count of 61 from shore in Massachusetts. Could this apparent increase in summer sightings south of the normal breeding range be indicative of large-scale failed breeding in the western Atlantic? Members of the Sulidae were also on the move: two Brown Boobies off New Jersey and the expected small numbers of Masked Boobies off the Southeast and in the Gulf of Mexico. A Long-tailed Jaeger was a great summer find off North Carolina. In Texas, a single Band-rumped Storm-Petrel was found inland after Tropical Storm Allison, the only “leftover” from this weak tropical storm. A pelagic trip into Mexican waters in the western Gulf of Mexico apparently recorded that country’s first Tamaulipan records of Cory’s Shearwater, Band-rumped Storm- Petrel, and Sooty Tern. Likewise, pelagic birding off the West Coast produced a few interest- ing sightings this summer. Shearwater numbers, especially Pink-footed Shearwaters, were above average, while most reports of other tubenoses were as expected. Interesting albatross records included a Laysan inshore off southern California and a Short-tailed Albatross off Oregon (sixth record there in last 50 years). In southern California, a Dark-rumped Petrel as well as record numbers of Red-billed Tropicbirds at San Clemente Island made news. Magnificent Frigatebirds were scarce, although one off British Columbia was exceptional. Arctic Terns are showing a pattern of slow increase in the interior dur- ing migration (May to October), although much of this increase may be Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 401 due to greater awareness and better identification skills. Nonetheless, recent nesting records in Montana (Dinsmore and Jorgensen 2001) and a single Arctic Tern courting a Common Tern at Chicago this summer (see the Middlewestern Prairie report) raise the possibility that there may be future nesting records of this species in the interior United States. In addi- tion to the Illinois report, single adults were in Florida (first inland report for the state), Idaho, and eastern Washington, and two or three were in Colorado. In many parts of the Great Plains, I am beginning to think that an immaculate adult medium-sized Sterna, seen during summer away from any known nesting colonies, has a very good chance of being an Arctic Tern. The message here is that all Sterna at odd summer locales are certainly worth careful study. Herons Late summer is typically the time for post-breeding dispersal by herons, and this year was no exception. The usual post-breeding dispersal patterns were exhibited by many of the more common species, including Great and Snowy Egrets and Yellow-crowned Night-Herons, all of which were wide- ly reported. Among the “rarer” species. Little Blue Herons were notable in Manitoba (three individuals, including one as far north as Churchill!), and they nested in South Dakota. Tricolored Herons wandered more widely and included a single bird in Manitoba and a nesting report in South Dakota (third state nesting record). A white-morph Reddish Egret was exceptional in Colorado, and represented the second record of a white morph bird in the Great Plains, after a Nebraska record last fall. In accor- dance with the increases noted by Patten and Lasley (2000), out-of-range Glossy Ibis were reported in Ontario, Nebraska, Kansas, and Oklahoma, and single White-faced Ibis were found in New Jersey, Delaware, and Alabama. Some of these “increases” in reciprocal areas may simply have resulted from increased observer effort and better identification skills, although the westward expansion of Glossy Ibis is generally attributed to a true increase (Patten and Lasley 2000). Intriguing was the story of a nesting colony of White-faced Ibis in the Rainwater Basin of south-central Nebraska (J. G. Jorgensen, pers. comm.). The colony was abandoned in mid-summer, and many of the birds moved to a nearby wetland where two Glossy Ibis (an apparent pair) were subsequently discovered. It is quite possible these birds may have nested (or attempted to do so) with the White-faced Ibis. The co-occurrence of both species in the Great Plains suggests that all nesting Plegadis in this region should now be carefully scrutinized, as they cannot all automatically be assumed to be White-faced Ibis. Shorebirds At I stated earlier, “summer” is a good season to see migratory shorebirds. Pall migrant shorebirds were widespread even as far south as Mexico, Central America, and the West Indies by mid-July, especially the typically “early” species such as Lesser Yellowlegs and Solitary and Least Sandpipers. Por some species, notably Piping Plover and Upland Sandpiper, peak numbers often occur in July; 57 of the former were already in coastal Texas by late July. As expected, a few exceptional shorebirds were seen this summer. Two Bar-tailed Godwits were found in Washington, and another was noted in Hawaii; a Red-necked Stint was in California; and a Sharp-tailed Sandpiper and an American Woodcock were in Bermuda. In addition, the more regular Eurasian species were found in small numbers on both coasts and at scattered inland locales; Ruffs were found in nine states and provinces, while single Curlew Sandpipers occurred in five coastal states. A wayward Purple Sandpiper was accidental at Churchill, Manitoba in early June. Another summer vagrant to interior regions is Red Phalarope, with singles reported this summer in Nebraska, New Mexico, and south- ern California. Eastern passerines in the West As migration in the East slows down in late May and early June, birding continues to be interesting in many parts of the West. The annual phe- nomenon of eastern migrants appearing in the West through mid-June is well known. While many of the better migrant traps have already been discovered, there are apparently still a few hotspots that remain to be found, such as Warm Springs Ranch in southern Utah (see the Great Basin report for summer discoveries at this site). The summer 2001 season was exceptional for some eastern passerines in parts of the West (see the Great Basin, Oregon-Washington, and Middle and Southern Pacific Coast reports for more details). The “usual” mix of eastern warblers included above-normal numbers of several species, plus near-record numbers of Rose-breasted Grosbeaks (Table 1). While these reports are obviously biased by factors such as where we bird (most effort is at known hotspots), or the timing of weather events relative to weekends (the days most birders are afield), patterns that appear to be real do occa- sionally emerge. Three of these species (Northern Parula, Hooded Warbler, and Rose-breasted Grosbeak) were widespread in this region in late spring, received special attention in the regional reports, and were probably the result of real increases in numbers of vagrants. Table 1. Records of some eastern passerines in the western North America, summer 2001. Region Species MT/ID CO/WY NM AZ UT/NV OR/WA n.CA s.CA Blue-winged Warbler 1 1 Golden-winged Warbler 1 1 1 Northern Parula 1 1 2 1 191 5 Chestnut-sided Warbler 3 2 2 3 6 1 Black-throated Blue Warbler 1 2 1 Prothonotary Warbler 1 1 1 1 Ovenbird 1 1 4 1 1 6 2 Kentucky Warbler 1 4 2 3 Hooded Warbler 4 4 2 9 2 Rose-breasted Grosbeak 4 U- 1 3 5 11 30 10 ^Nesting confirmed at one site, possible at two others 402 North American Birds Changing Seasons Miscellaneous II Recent increased attention to jaeger identification, coupled with increased study of vagrant individuals, has led to a better understanding of their dis- tribution in interior North America (see Leukering 2000). Based on per- sonal experience and a perusal of many past summer “Changing Seasons” summaries, I might add a third “rule” to Leukering’s list: most “summer” jaegers inland tend to be Pomarines, with only a few Long-tailed Jaegers and almost no Parasitic Jaegers (at least not very many that are well-doc- umented) being reported. Most inland summer jaegers also tend to be adults (or rarely subadults). This summer was no exception to the above patterns: single adult Pomarine Jaegers were found in Nebraska, Texas, and Colorado. Not surprisingly, many of the “movers” of last winter lingered into the summer season. After a good irruption last winter. Rough-legged Hawks lingered south of their breeding range in small numbers. Mostly singles were reported in British Columbia, Washington, southwestern Manitoba, Minnesota, Michigan, several in southern Ontario, but unusually high numbers were noted along the St. Lawrence River in Quebec. Snowy Owls staged only a minor irruption last winter (Brinkley 2001 ), although single birds tarried south of the breeding range in Quebec and Ontario. Probably as a result of the major irruption last winter (Brinkley 2001), many Northern Hawk Owls and Great Gray Owls stretched the southern limits of their breeding ranges this year; however, many of the reports did not specifically indicate nesting activity. Noteworthy summer reports included Northern Hawk Owls in British Columbia (two nests), Washington (first summer record for the region), Idaho (first state nesting record), Quebec (probable nesting was noted at two southerly locales), northern Minnesota (four nests), and eastern Ontario. Great Gray Owls showed a similar pattern, with extralimital birds in Quebec (confirmed nesting), Michigan, and Washington. Because these reports followed a major southward irruption last winter, the most interesting question : “Is this pattern temporary or permanent?” Qnly time will tell. Finally, a few Red-breasted Nuthatches lingered at southerly locales after a minor erup- tion last winter, including the first summer record for Baja California. There were several other miscellaneous reports of note. A Long-tailed Duck was found in Montana (second state summer record) and another was notable in Wisconsin; this species is exceptional in the interior Lower 48 in summer. Up to seven Black-legged Kittiwakes summering in Baja California were noteworthy. An extraordinary Dovekie off Massachusetts was thought to be the latest ever for the region. Black-whiskered Vireos were reported in North Carolina, where they are accidental, and for the first time in summer in Texas. This species is a classic “stealth” vagrant, with records north only to Back Bay, Virginia; how long before one shows up farther north at Cape May or Cape Cod? Finally, Northern Wheatears lingered after their spring incursion in the Northeast with singles in New Hampshire and Vermont. Lastly, when scanning the regional reports, there are always a few breathtaking numbers, sometimes of common species. Such reports this summer included 1500 Little Blue Herons at a roost near St. Louis, 263 Swallow-tailed Kites in the Pearl River Basin along the Mississippi/Louisiana border, 1400 Semipalmated Plovers at South Beach, Massachusetts, 15,000-t- Common Terns nesting on South Monomoy L, Massachusetts, a concentration of 100,000 (!) Purple Martins in Texas, 13,000 Bank Swallows at Point Pelee, Qntario, and a report of 35 (!) terri- torial Hooded Warblers (counts of more than a single bird this far north are notable) at Murphy-Hanrehan Regional Park in Minnesota. Many of us enjoy birding for spectacles such as these — I’ll never forget the hordes of migratory Snow Geese and Sandhill Cranes in the Great Plains in March, masses of shorebirds at Delaware Bay in May, and the winter roosts of tens of millions of blackbirds in parts of the Southeast. These events are often awe-inspiring and provide the sense of excitement that keeps us in the field. Goodies As usual, there were a few finds that defied imagination — birds that were so far out of range or season that their occurrence would almost never be predicted. These are the birds that keep so many of us in the field, always searching for that extraordinary find. Sightings falling into this category (some pending acceptance by local records committees) included a Shy Albatross off California, a Little Egret in Delaware, a Garganey in Nova Scotia, a Harlequin Duck in Arizona (second state record), a King Eider in Louisiana (found dead; third state record), single Swallow-tailed Kites in Kentucky (second record since 1900) and Wisconsin, a Wilson’s Plover in Michigan (third state record), a Red-necked Stint at St. Pierre et Miquelon (second regional report), a Western Gull in Arizona (second state record), a Roseate Tern in Louisiana (first state record), an Elegant Tern in New Mexico (second state record) plus two more in Arizona, a Black Skimmer in Colorado (first state record) and another in New Mexico (third or fourth state record), a Whiskered Auklet in British Columbia (first provincial record), single Tropical and Tropical/Couch’s Kingbirds along the Gulf Coast of Florida (pay attention to those way- ward “Western” Kingbirds!), a Scissor-tailed Flycatcher in Newfoundland (a surprising first provincial record). Cave Swallows in Virginia, Oklahoma, and Kansas (the latter two were first state records), a Brown- headed Nuthatch in Illinois (first state record; same location that hosted a Red-cockaded Woodpecker last fall, so who knows what will be found there next?), a Tropical Parula in Arizona (second state record), single Yellow-throated Warblers in North Dakota and Idaho (both second state records), a Worm-eating Warbler in Oregon (second state record), an Eastern Towhee in Idaho (first state record, but there was no mention that a hybrid Spotted x Eastern Towhee was considered or ruled out), a Painted Bunting in Utah (first or second state record), and a Brewer’s Blackbird in Newfoundland (first provincial record). Gleaning the most from field records In the above discussion, I attempted to delineate patterns based upon the information in the regional reports. As a result of reporting biases, we may not know a species is expanding until the increase is well underway. It should be apparent that patterns are hard to define when data are lack- ing. I’m not saying we need detailed information on all of the common species, but are spotty data on the breeding success of a bird like the American Robin likely to be very useful? Well, probably not. But other species, those with special conservation interest, or those that are dra- matically increasing or declining, or those whose breeding ranges or migration patterns are poorly known, may merit more attention. These are the species upon which we should focus our reporting efforts. And good reporting relies on good note taking. In my experience, birders vary considerably in the details they record about their sightings while in the field. This can vary from simply keep- ing life or year lists to keeping far more detailed lists. Detailed lists can be daily lists, lists of species seen at a particular site by date, numbers of birds seen by site and date, or records of identifiable forms, races, sub- species, or identifiable age and/or sex classes, also by date and location. Obviously, records in the latter form are the most useful, although each type of record keeping has its own merits. As my birding companions can attest to, I carry a stack of 3x5” cards in the field and I am constant- ly scribbling details on the number, race, subspecies, age/sex, and other features (e.g., odd plumage details) of the birds I see. Such detailed records have immense value, but only a handful of birders keep them. It would be nice to see this pattern change. To that end, I would like to see Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 403 more birders jotting down notes while in the field, and then later trans- ferring these notes to one of the many database management programs available for birders. This information can then, in turn, be used to con- tribute detailed reports that increase our general understanding of birds, provide a source of information for authors of state bird books, can be used to develop local bird checklists, and much more. We should continually strive to expand our collective knowledge of birds, and contributing the most detailed records possible is the best way to accomplish this. If, say, you encounter multiple subspecies (or other identifiable classes) of a common bird in your area, there is great value in keeping track of each subspecies and reporting those data. As an exam- ple, how many birders regularly keep track of the races of Dark-eyed Juncos that occur in their area? In parts of the Great Plains where mul- tiple races regularly occur, limited work suggests that individuals of dif- ferent races may follow quite different migrational patterns, and their winter distributions can vary markedly between years. Such information is extremely interesting, and more birders should make an effort to col- lect these data. I cannot remember how many times I’ve heard another birder make a statement along the lines of “I saw 14 Sabine’s Gulls in Wyoming this fall, but the state bird book says they are casual in the state.” Well, the source data for that book probably relied on voluntary submissions by birders. If the published information is erroneous, it’s probably because no one bothered to submit the correct information. Many taxonomic changes have at their roots the careful observations of amateur field ornithologists. These careful observations cause birders and ornithologists alike to ask more complex questions, some of which result in detailed studies and eventual splits. There are hundreds of examples where such information might be collected; color morphs of species such as Reddish Egret or the jaegers (could migratory or disper- sal patterns differ by color morph?), the age, sex, and color morph of Rough-legged Hawks (there is latitudinal segregation in winter based on age and sex), subspecies of Willets (“western” birds are common in migration and winter along the Atlantic Coast), age classes of many gulls, the three forms of Gray jays (this could be useful for sorting out the source(s) of irrupting birds), the various subspecies of Hermit and Swainson’s Thrushes (this information can be useful in pinpointing the source [s] of migrants using an area; see Lane and Jamarillo 2000a, 2000b, 2000c), the races of Palm Warblers, etc. Some of this information is already being collected and reported, and I applaud those who are con- tributing to this information gathering. But even broader support from birders is needed for us to better understand the life history traits of these and many other species. A second, and closely related, reason for recording such data has to do with the ever-changing taxonomic status of many species (see Sibley 1997). Michael Patten (Patten 2000) touched on this subject recently, where he emphasized the lack of records of certain species (e.g., Atlantic Brant, Bmnta bernicula hrota, on the Pacific Coast) following a “lump- ing” of species; I would like to expand on his discussion. First and fore- most, I want to emphasize information gathering before a potential species split. Over the past several years, the birding community has seen some rather profound changes in bird taxonomy (American Ornithologists’ Union 1998). Advances in molecular tools, coupled with an increased interest in avian taxonomy and the somewhat plastic defi- nition of a species, have led to the naming of several “new” bird species, clearly making this the era of the splitter. And while it is true that splits lengthen our bird lists, they also serve another important function; they force us to study many familiar species more carefully with the result that we learn more about them. Unfortunately, it often takes a split to moti- vate this additional study. While there are exceptions, how many birders carefully studied members of the “Solitary” Vireo complex before it was split into three species in 1996? Or how about “Western” Flycatchers? Or even something as large and ubiquitous (at least at leks) as a Sage- Grouse? The point is that we typically do not, or have not, studied these species until after they were split. I urge birders to plan ahead; try to pay attention to identifiable forms, races, subspecies, etc., long before a potential split. Even if the split never occurs, this additional scrutiny fos- ters learning, which is certainly a core component of birding. These pages cannot possibly serve as a complete treatise on this sub- ject, but some species to pay particular attention to in the immediate future include Canada Goose (among others, the small Arctic subspecies minima may soon be a distinct species). White-breasted Nuthatch (the Eastern, Rocky Mountain, and Pacific subspecies can be readily separat- ed by calls). Marsh Wren (eastern and western subspecies can be identi- fied by song and plumage), Nashville Warbler (the two subspecies may eventually be split). Brewer’s Sparrow (recent work suggests that “Timberline” Sparrow may soon be split from Brewer’s Sparrow; see Klicka et al. 1999), Sage Sparrow (Johnson and Marten 1992), Fox Sparrow (four full species may soon result from potential splits; see Zink 1994 and Zink and Kessen 1999), Gray-crowned Rosy-Finch (the Hepburn’s race could well be a future split), and Red Crossbill (talk of major splits has waned in the last year; alas, the distinct forms often require recordings to separate them, at least definitively). Parting thoughts As I wrap up this column, I have two messages I would like to re-empha- size. First, birders should continue to submit reports that are as detailed as possible, and these reports should certainly include information about current species of conservation interest (e.g., include more reports of the rapidly-expanding Eurasian Collared-Dove). Second, birders should think ahead to possible future splits and begin collecting the pertinent data now. In a different vein, the contents of the “Changing Seasons” rely exclu- sively on the voluntary reports of birders. In some regions, concentrat- ed birding activity and an efficient reporting system add up to very use- ful reports; editors in these regions do an excellent job of summarizing local patterns and identifying unusual sightings. Conversely, other regions may suffer in one or both of these areas, and the resulting reports are sometimes less useful. I will end by reiterating a plea of several past writers of this column; please be as thorough as possible when interpret- ing records in your Regions. Without your interpretation, editors might not mention the record or might misinterpret it. Neither outcome is beneficial. Acknowledgments All of the regional editors deserve special thanks for continuing to vol- unteer to write their respective summaries. And kudos to everyone for submitting these reports in a timely fashion this season. Finally, I thank James J. Dinsmore, Joe Fontaine, and W. Ross Silcock for comments on earlier drafts of this column. Literature cited American Ornithologists’ Union. 1998. Check-list of North American Birds. Seventh edition. American Ornithologists’ Union, Washington, D.C. Brinkley, E. S. 2001. The Changing Seasons; Winter 2000-2001. Hawk owls, hummingbirds, and hardies. North American Birds 55; 132- 139. Davis, R. 1998. Southern Atlantic Coast Region. Field Notes 52;446-448. Dinsmore, S. J., and J. G. Jorgensen. 2001. Arctic Terns nesting in Montana; first modern interior breeding records for the Lower 48 United States. North American Birds 55; 127- 131. 404 North American Birds Changing Seasons Ehresman, B. L. 1999. The recovery of the Bald Eagle as an Iowa nesting species. Iowa Bird Life 69:1-12. Grzybowski, J. A., and C. M. Pease. 1999. Cowbirds: villains or scapegoats. Birding 31:448-451. Johnson, N. K., and J. A. Marten. 1992. Macrogeographic patterns of morphometric and genetic variation in the Sage Sparrow complex. Condor 94:1-19. Romagosa, C. M., and T. McEneaney. 1999. Eurasian Collared-Dove in North America and the Caribbean. North American Birds 53:348-353. Sharpe, R. S., W. R. Silcock, and J. G. Jorgensen. 2001. Birds of Nebraska. University of Nebraska Press, Lincoln. Sibley, C. G. 1997. The species problem. Birding 29:215-219. Thomas, C. D., and J. J. Lennon. 1999. Birds extend their ranges north- wards. Nature 399:213. Assist in bird conservation, research, and outreach in the Neotropics by donating your used but still function- ing birding equipment to Birders' Exchange, American Birding Associa- tion, 720 West Monument St., PO Box 6599, Colorado Springs, CO 80934-6599. http ://americanbirding. org/ programs/consbex. htm Klicka, J., R. M. Zink, J. C. Barlow, and T. J. Doyle. 1999. Evidence supporting the recent origin and species status of the Timberline Sparrow. Condor 101: 577-588. Lane, D., and A. Jamarillo. 2000a. Identification of Hylocichla! Catharus thrushes, part 1. Birding 32:121-135. Lane, D., and A. Jamarillo. 2000b. Identification of Hylocichla! Catharus thrushes, part II. Birding 32:242-254. Lane, D., and A. Jamarillo. 2000c. Identification of Hylocichla/Catharus thrushes, part III. Birding 32:318-331. Leukering, T. 2001. Changing seasons, fall 2000. North American Birds 55:13-19. Ortega, C. P. 2000. More on cowbirds. Birding 32:362- 364. Patten, M. A. 2000. The winter season, 1999-2000: warm weather and cross-continental wonders. North American Birds 54:146-149. Patten, M. A., and G. W. Lasley. 2000. Range expansion of the Glossy Ibis in North America. North American Birds 54:241-247. Pranty, B. 2000. Possible anywhere: Shiny Cowbird. Birding 32:514-526. Zink, R. M. 1994. The geography of mitochondrial DNA variation, pop- ulation structure, hybridization, and species limits in the Fox Sparrow (Passerilla liaca). Evolution 48:96-1 1 1. Zink, R. M., and A. E. Kessen. 1999. Species limits in the Fox Sparrow. Birding 31:508-517. AviSys” 4.58 for Windows As Simple As You Wish ~ As Powerful As You Need NEW! Worldwide Subspecies Support! Palm Support! Clements’ 2001 World Taxonomy! The Leader A Giant Step Ahead Of All The Rest AviSys is a full-featured worldwide database and reporting system for serious bird- ers. It can be enhanced by adding the Official Shawneen Finnegan Worldwide Na- tion Checklist Add-On (as provided in BirdArea by Santa Barbara Software Prod- ucts), providing the most authoritative, highest quality, and most up-to-date check- lists of the 254 nations of the world. The checklists are tightly and seamlessly inte- grated with AviSys, providing beautiful screen and printed output with seen, seen- in-nation, and endemic markers, and instant worldwide nation-by-nation range query for any species. 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PO Box 6599 • Colorado Springs • CO 80934 • Phone: 800/533-2473 • www.americanbirding.org/adcornell.htm Institute for Field Ornithology 2002 Workshops Arctic Breeding Bird Ecology Instructors: Paul Baicich & Wayne Petersen June 28-july 5; Sewartd Peninsula, Alaska Flycatchers Instructor: Chris Benesh July 20-25; Sierra Vista, Arizona Shorebirds Instructor: Wayne Petersen August 4-1 1 ; Sackville, New Brunswick West Coast Seabirds Instructors: Debi Shearwater & Peter Pyle August 3-8; Central California Coast Fall Warblers Instructors: Jon Dunn & Kimball Garrett August 26-September 1 ; Leamington, Ontario Current Trends in Bird Conservation Instructors: David Davis & Paul Baicich October 5-1 1 ; Washington, DC Raptors Instructor: Clay Sutton October 1 3-1 8; Cape May, New Jersey Field Study and Classroom Education American Birding Association • Institute for Field Ornithology 800-850-2473 • http://americanbirding.org 406 North American Birds STANDARD ABBREVIATIONS USED IN THE REGIONAL REPORTS Abbreviations used in place names In most regions, place names given in ital- ic type are counties. Other abbreviations: A.F.B. Air Force Base B.B.S. Breeding Bird Survey C.B.C. Christmas Bird Count Cr. Creek Ft. Fort Hwy Highway I. Island or Isle Is. Islands or Isles let. Junction km kilometer(s) L. Lake mi mile (s) Mt. Mountain or Mount Mts. Mountains N.F. National Forest N.M. National Monument N.P. National Park N.W.R. National Wildlife Refuge P.P. Provincial Park Pen. Peninsula Pt. Point (not Port) R. River Ref. Refuge Res. Reservoir (not Reservation) S.P State Park Twp. Township W.M.A. WOdlife Management Area W.T.P. (Waste) Water Treatment Pond(s) or Plant Other abbreviations and symbols : referring to birds; ad. (ads.) adult(s) imm. immature juv. (juvs.) juvenal; juvenile(s) ph. photographed sp. (spp.) species (plural) subad. (subads.) subadult(s) tape audio tape-recorded v.t. videotaped t written detaOs were submitted for a sighting * a specimen was collected How to Read the Relgional Report Birds have no respect for range maps. Bird distribu- tion in North America is constantly changing, as birds expand their ranges into new areas, disappear from former strongholds, or alter their patterns of migration. Our knowledge of bird distribution is also chang- ing constantly, as discoveries continue to come in. Keeping up with all these developments is a challenge for ornithologists, conservationists, and birders. The Regional Reports, published four times a year, contain a wealth of information about North America’s dynamic birdlife. When seeing the reports for the first time, they might appear difficult or tech- nical, but they are not; anyone with any birding expe- rience will find the reports easy to understand. We invite you to read the report from your area of the continent; we predict that the information there will alternately surprise you and confirm your ideas about birdlife in your region. To help you get started, here are answers to some questions that may occur to first- time readers. What kind of information is included? Do the Regional Editors just report everything that’s reported to them? Regional Editors do not report every sighting of every bird. Such a list would be huge, unwieldy, and not very useful. Instead, they solicit reports from as many observers as possible, screen the records for accuracy, choose those that are most significant, look for trends and patterns of occurrence, connect scattered bits of information, and ultimately come up with a concise, readable summary of the real bird news — the impor- tant avian events and trends of the season throughout their region. Why are there so many abbreviations in the text? We abbreviate some frequently-used words and phrases to save space. Most of these are easy to under- stand and remember. (See the list of abbreviations at the end of this section.) In addition to these standard abbreviations, some Regional Editors use shortened versions of the names of some birding hot spots; they list these local abbreviations in a separate paragraph, just after their introductory comments and just before their main species accounts. What do the initials in parentheses mean? Most records published in each report will be followed by initials, to indicate the source: the per- son(s) who found or reported the bird(s) mentioned. The initials may be followed by et al. (short for et alia, meaning “and others”), or preceded hj fide (literally, “by the faith of” — meaning that this is a second-hand report, and the person initialed is the one who passed it along to the Regional Editor). A dagger (f) before the initials means that this person turned in written details on the sighting. There are good reasons for giving credit to the observers involved. Readers may be reassured about the accuracy of surprising sightings if they know who the observers were; researchers who want to know more about a certain record may be able to contact the observers directly. In some cases, when a bird was seen by many birders, the Regional Editor may add “v.o.” (for “various observers”) or “m.ob.” (for “many observers”) after the first sets of initials. Who are the people who send in their sightings? All observers are invited to send in notes to their Regional Editors: details on rare sightings, species that were scarcer or more numerous than usual during the season, unusual concentrations or migration, and so on. Reading the reports for your region for a few sea- sons is the best way to find out what kinds of infor- mation are desired. Although the Regional Editors cannot cite every record that they receive, every con- tributor helps them to produce a more thorough and accurate summary. Why are some bird names in heavier or blacker type? We use boldface type to draw attention to outstand- ing records of rare birds. General categories of birds that the Regional Editors would place in boldface would include: any species that has been recorded fewer than 10 times previously in a given state or pro- vince; any new breeding record for a state or province; or any bird totally outside established patterns of sea- sonal occurrence. (For the most part, records are not boldfaced unless they are backed up with solid detaOs or photographs.) Birders who like to know about rare birds (and most of us do) can get a complete run- down of the season’s outstanding rarities by scanning all the Regional Reports for those boldfaced birds. Why are some of the place names in italic type? In most of the regional reports, place names given in italic type refer to counties. (Italics represent parishes in Louisiana, and in parts of Ontario they may refer to districts or regional municipalities.) What are the boxes in the text marked! “SA”? “SA” stands for “Special Attention” (and, by coinci- dence, is pronounced “essay”). The purpose of the boxed essays is to draw attention to particularly note- worthy phenomena or trends.Likely SA topics include new population trends or new bird distribution pat- terns, unusual invasions or migration events, field research yielding new data, specific conservation problems that have an impact on birdlife, or detailed discussion of an outstanding (or perplexing) rare bird record. Experienced readers of North American Birds make it a point to flip through all the Regional Reports and read all the S.A.s, even in regions where they do not read the rest of the text. Volume 55 (2001'), Number 4 407 Atlantic Provinces ST PIERRE ET MIQUELON ^ Sable t ATLANTIC OCEAN Bruce Mactavish 37 Waterford Bridge Road St. John’s, Newfoundland A1 E 1 C5 (bruce.mactavish1@nf.sympatico.ca) It was 3 dry, warm summer across most of the Region. The lack of comments on birds’ breeding success, either positive or negative, probably indicates an “average” breeding sea- son. A pair of Northern Wheatears raised two broods at Cape Pine, Newfoundland, 700 km south of the known breeding range. Rarity highlights were a Red-necked Stint at St. Pierre et Miquelon, a molting Garganey in Nova Scotia, a Loggerhead Shrike on an offshore island in New Brunswick, a Black-tailed Godwit, and two provincial firsts, a Scissor- tailed Flycatcher and a Brewer’s Blackbird in Newfoundland. Abbreviations: C.B.I (Cape Breton Island); C.S.I. (Cape Sable Island, NS); G.M.I. (Grand Manan Island, NB), SPM (St. Pierre et Miquelon, France). LOONS THROUGH RAILS As usual, a pair of Red-throated Loons nested at Miquelon S.P.M (RE). Rare mid-summer grebes in Nova Scotia were 2 Horned Grebes 7 Jul at Summerville Beach (JH) and 4 Red- necked Grebes 21 Jun at Hartlen Pt. (FL). The usual tens of thousands of Greater Shearwaters and Sooty Shearwaters fed on capelin off the s. coast of the Avalon Pen., NF in Jul (PLi et al.). The 100 Manx Shearwaters near Colombier I., SPM 1 Jul represented the largest concentra- tion reported (LJ). Unusually high numbers of Wilson’s Storm-Petrels were encountered on the Cabot Strait ferry between N. Sydney, NS and Port-aux-Basques, NF, with counts of 295 on 30 Jun and 75 on 2 Jul (RK). One hundred pairs of Double-crested Cormorants nesting on two islands in Groswater Bay made for the first known breeding occurrence in Labrador in nearly a century (KC fide PLI). Herons wandering n. of their breeding ranges were reported in below-average num- bers: Great Egret numbered 3 in Nova Scotia, one in St. Pierre et Miquelon, and 2 in Newfoundland, while a single Little Blue Heron was noted in Nova Scotia, and there were no reports of Snowy Egret. More unusu- al was a single Tricolored Heron at Homeville, C.B.I., NS 1 Jun (RK et al.) and an imm. Yellow-crowned Night-Heron at St. Pierre, SPM 26 Jul (PA). A Turkey Vulture in the Great Codroy Valley, NE 10-21 Jun was only the 3rd to be recorded on insular Newfoundland (DP, JW et al.). A male Eurasian Wigeon at Cow Bay, NS 16 Jun was the only report of the species (CSS). The Garganey discovered at Amherst, NS in May was last seen 18 Jun (FL, CLS). A pair of Redhead remained at Riverside-Albert, NB until at least 10 Jun (DC). A female Hooded Merganser summering in St. John’s was far from breeding sites in the w. half of the Region (PLi). A pair of Red-shouldered Hawks was at Sunpoke L., NB 11 Jun (DG, PP). Rough- legged Hawks were widespread on insular Newfoundland due to an abundance of voles {ftde PLi). Five Common Moorhens were at their e. breeding stronghold, Amherst Point Bird Sanctuary, on 18 Jun (FL, CLS). SHOREBIRDS THROUGH ALCiDS A new high total of four pairs of Piping Plover nested on the Isthmus of Miquelon, SPM (RE). An isolated n. population of 10 pairs of Killdeer had territories at Labrador City, Labrador (BD). American Oystercatcher con- tinues to maintain a toehold as breeder in the Region, with 3 ads. and 2 juvs. present at The Cape, C.S.I. , NS during Jul (MN). A Willet strayed e. to Grand Barachois, SPM 3—28 Jul (RE et al). Up to 300 Whimbrel were at Barachois, S.P.M. 19 Jul (RE). A host of early southbound shore- birds arrived in the last days of Jun. The diversity, as well as the numbers of some species, made this an extraordi- nary event. Early Hudsonian Godwits were 2 at Three Fathom Harbour, NS 21 Jun (FL), one at The Hawk, C.S.I. 28 Jun (MN), 5 at Morien Bar, C.B.I., NS 1 Jul (SM), and one at Grand Barachois, SPM 28 Jun (RE). The Hawk, C.S.I, NS also had 8 Ruddy Turnstones, 5 Red Knots, and a remarkable 700 Short-billed Dowitchers 28 Jun (MN). A further 60 Short-bUled Dowitchers were at Three Fathom Harbour 27 Jun (IM). Perhaps related was the appearance of an impec- cable, alternate-plumaged Red-necked Stint in company with an early Stilt Sandpiper and a White-rumped Sandpiper at Grand Barachois, SPM 1 Jul (RE et al.). This was the first for the French Islands and perhaps a 2nd for the Region. A Black-tailed Godwit at Stephenville Crossing, NF 1-3 Jun was part of the moder- ate late May influx of European birds to the province (KK et al.). A Reeve at Portugal Cove S., NF 3 Jun (AH, JP) was followed by a spec- tacular white Ruff at the same location on 8 Jun (KS, GS). A molting Ruff was at Morien 408 North American Birds Atlantic Provinces Bar, NS 14-25 Jul (SM et al). The only report of the increasing rare Wilson’s Phalarope was a juv. 29 Jul at Morien Bar, C.B.L, NS (SM et al.). Two Red Phalaropes near Machais Seal I., NB on 23 Jun fell between migration periods (PLe). Most midsummer jaeger reports were, as usual, from Newfoundland, where they join in with other seabirds and marine mammals to feed on spawning capelin. The highest of sev- eral counts was a mixed group of 55 Pomarine and Parasitic Jaegers at Portugal Cove S. 28 Jul (AH, PLi). Four ad. Long-tailed Jaegers were migrating n. at O’Donnells, St. Mary’s Bay, NF 4 Jun (AB). The lack of s. winds in May seems to be responsible for the complete lack of Laughing Gulls in Newfoundland during the summer, but Nova Scotia made up for it with 3 during Jun (fide BMy). A few Lesser Black- backed Gulls, all subads., were reported during the period in Newfoundland and Nova Scotia. A pair of Great Black-backed Gulls attempted to nest far inland at Labrador City, Labrador (BD). Caspian Terns were rediscovered nesting in Hamilton Inlet, Labrador, with five nests on three islands (KC). Seventy Roseate Tern nests, an encouraging number, were tallied at The Brothers, NS (TD). Four Black Terns were at the e. edge of the breeding range at Amherst Point Bird Sanctuary 18 Jun (FL). DOVES THROUGH WAXWIHGS What would a summer be like without a White-winged Dove? This time it was at Sainte-Jacques Madawaska, NB 14 Jun (JB). A Yellow-billed Cuckoo, very rare in the Region outside of the autumn season, was an extraor- dinary find at Goose Bay, Labrador on 19 Jun (TB, JS). An unseasonable Snowy Owl was at St. Pierre, SPM 25 Jun (BL). An Eastern Wood- Pewee was e. of mapped breeding range at St. Pierre, SPM 11 Jun (LJ). Newfoundland’s long overdue first Scissor-tailed Flycatcher was beautifully photographed from a canoe by a nature photographer in a remote area of the central part of the province 3 Jul (DT). The first Loggerhead Shrike in the Region in years was obviously a vagrant on Machias Seal L, NB 8 Jun (AM). Philadelphia Vireo is a wide- spread summer singer in second-growth deciduous forest in w. Newfoundland, but the first actual breeding evidence was a singing male feeding a barely fledged young bird near Highlands 10 Jul (PLi, BMt). Seven territorial Philadelphia Vireos around Goose Bay, Labrador, during Jun was expected (TB, JS). A stray Purple Martin hit the end of the road at Cape North, C.B.L 16 Jul (RK). House Wren, a rare breeder in New Brunswick, was heard singing 17 Jun Thomaston Corner (CA). A total of 6 Golden-crowned Kinglets in Goose Bay during Jun were perhaps the first Labrador sightings of this inconspicuous sum- mertime species (TB, JS). A female Blue-gray Gnatcatcher at Mary’s Pt., NB 10 Jun was probably a late migrant (DC). One of the most extraordinary events of the period was a pair of nesting Northern Wheatears at Cape Pine, Avalon Peninsula, NF. This is 700 km s. of the previously known s. extreme of the breeding range in North America at Black Tickle, Labrador. Kim Eckert (Victor Emanuel Nature Tours) discov- ered the pair feeding fledged young on 15 Jul. On 18 Jul, the male was observed in care of 6 (!) large bobbing, bob-tailed fledglings. On the same date, the agitated female was seen entering a hole in a rock wall; she did not emerge for two hours (PLi, BMt). On several dates in August, the pair was seen carrying food into the hole in the rock wall, presumably raising another brood (KK et al.). This isolated breeding record follows a massive influx involving at least 42 storm-driven Northern Wheatears to e. Newfoundland in late May (cf. N. A. B. 55: 269-271). A singing Gray Catbird at Goose Bay, Labrador 12 Jun was far n. of the breeding range (TB, JS). Nova Scotia’s first confirmed breeding record for Brown Thrasher was a well-documented pair raising 2 young to maturity from Jun through Aug at The Hawk, C.S.L, NS (JN et al.). Meanwhile, a lost Brown Thrasher took up residence on Machias Seal L, NB during Jun (PLe). Bohemian Waxwing is widespread in small numbers throughout forested zones of Labrador in summer. The first breeding record was close to being con- firmed with sightings of a pair of ads. repeat- edly carrying insects 150 m across an area of old burned forest near Esker 28 Jun (BD) and 3 streaky juvs. among a flock of 20 ads. 7 Aug at Lobstick (BK, EK). WARBLERS THROUGH FINCHES Totals of 5 Cape May Warblers, 2 Bay-breasted Warblers, and one Ovenbird found in the Goose Bay Labrador area in Jun were strong indications of breeding n. of published breed- ing ranges (TB, JS). A lingering Clay-colored Sparrow sang at Fredericton, NB 28 May-6 Jun (DS et al.). A Field Sparrow singing in suitable breeding habitat at Brockway Airstrip, NB 21 Jun raised expectations of breeding once again in New Brunswick (DG et al.). Intriguing were the sightings of possible Seaside Sparrows at LaHave and nearby Cherry Hill Beach, Lunenburg, NS in late Jul (JH). Generally regarded as a rare late autumn/early winter vagrant to s. ends of the Region, this saltmarsh sparrow could easily go undetected among the large coastal marshes of Nova Scotia and New Brunswick during the summer. Recently insti- gated surveys of Nelson’s Sharp-tailed Sparrow in Nova Scotia revealed impressive populations of 60 pairs from Conrad’s Beach to Lawrencetown Beach (DW et al.) and 75 pairs at Belleisle Marsh (JJN et al.). An indica- tion of the abundance of Northern Cardinals breeding in s. Nova Scotia was revealed by an unorthodox survey method: visiting garage sales in the Yarmouth and Hebron area, where some 20 pairs were thus discovered (MN). A male Brewer’s Blackbird, well studied and photographed at Cape Race, NF 2-8 Jun, was a provincial first and one of the very few spring records for the Region (PLi, BMt et al.). Common Crackles well n. of typical breeding range were Jun singles at Labrador City (BD) and Goose Bay (TB, JS). Except for good numbers of White-winged Crossbills across Labrador, finches kept a low profile in the Region this summer. Observers (subregional editors in boldface): Chris Adam, Pascal Asselin, Andrew Barron, Todd Boland, J. Bourque, Keith Chaulk, Dave Christie, Brian Dalzell, Ted d’Eon, Fred Dobson, Roger Etcheberry, Sylvia Fullerton, Don Gibson, James Hirtle, Anne Hughes, Laurent Jackman, Brian & Eileen Keelan, Richard Knapton, Ken Knowles, Fulton Lavender, Lance Laviolette, Paul Lehman, Paul Linegar, Andrew MacFarlane, Bruce Mactavish, Blake Maybank, Ian McLaren, Ken McKenna, Dave McCorquodale, Susan Myers, Murray Newell, Johnnie Nickerson, Joe N. Nocera, Peter Pearce, Doug Phelan, John Pratt, Dwayne Sabine, Jytte Selno, Richard Stern, Clarence L. Stevens, Clarence S. Stevens, Kim & Greg Stroud, David Tilley, Dottie Welch, John Wells. Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 409 Quebec Pierre Bannon 1517 Leprohon Montreal, Quebec H4E1P1 (pbannon@totai.net) Samuel Denault 75 Beauchemin Saint-Basile-le-Grand, Quebec J3N 1J6 (Samuel. cienault@videotron.ca) Yves Aubry Canadian Wildlife Service P.O. Box 10100 Sainte-Foy, Quebec G1V4H5 (yves.aubry@ec.gc.ca) Normand David 11931 Lavigne Montreal, Quebec H4J 1X9 (ndavid@netrover.com) This summer, most of the Region experi- enced temperatures above normal, the deviation from the normal being the most noticeable on the east coast of Hudson Bay, where the mean temperature was 5 degrees Fahrenheit above the norm. Most of the inhab- itated part of the Region had below-normal precipitation, most particularly the Abitibi region. Only the North Shore had normal or slightly above-normal precipitation. No severe weather conditions adversely affected the breeding season. The only natural phenome- non with potential negative effects on the breeding of woodland species was a severe defoliation caused by the forest tent caterpillar (Malacosonia disstria Hbn.) in the Abitibi region. PELICANS THROUGH TERNS Once again this summer, an American White Pelican visited the Region. Its huge size allowed the bird to be seen from different locales around the Lachine rapids 23 Jun-3 Jul, including He des Soeurs, LaSalle, and Sainte-Catherine (PB, m. ob.). A pair of Least Bitterns at Saint- Fulgence 26-3 1 Jul+ provided a first record for the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region (S. Belleau, m. ob.). In the s., this threatened species was surprisingly well in evidence; the Saint- Timothee marsh continued to be its stronghold, as shown by the presence of at least six pairs (A. Hogue). Great Egrets continued to infiltrate s. Quebec. In addition to 20 birds at the Saint- Timothee marsh (m. ob.), 8 were seen at Pointe a Comtois on the s. shore of Lake Saint-Pierre 29 Jul (ND, D. Jauvin), while 4 young flapping their wings from the top of high trees at He aux Herons 29 Jul confirmed breeding there for the 4th consecutive year (PB). Enriching our knowledge of the breeding distribution of Turkey Vulture was a nest con- taining 2 young found at Beauceville in late Jul (D. Parent, K. Poulin, fide L. Tremblay). Single Greater White-fronted Geese at Victoriaville 5 Jun (R. Lacerte, J. Nadeau) and Baie-du-Febvre 9-10 Jun {fide S. Houle) were somewhat unseasonal. The number of Mute Swans was higher than usual in the Region. In addition to an ad. at Beauharnois throughout the period, 2 imms. were at Neuville 6 Jun (D. Cloutier), 2 at Cap-Tourmente NWR 10 Jun-10 Jul {fide JL; no age reported), one at Bergeronnes 31 Jul-r (E 8c V. Bouchard), and one 3 Jun— 15 Jul at Lac-Kenogami, Metabetchouan, and Sainte- Monique, three locales of the e. part of the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region. A female Ruddy Duck with 7 ducklings at Saint- Fulgence 25 Jul provided a first nesting record for the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region (R. Poulin, N. Gagne). A serious candidate for “the Bird of the Year Award,” an ad. male Mississippi Kite was enjoyed by many observers at Amos, Abitibi 6-29 Jun (C. Beland, m. ob., ph. M. Lafleur). The Abitibi region, located 500 km nw. of Montreal, has now provided Quebec with three new species in the last four years, includ- ing a White-faced Ibis in 1997 and a Common Crane in 1999. The presence of ad. Bald Eagles in increasing numbers in the Estrie region might herald future nesting s. of the St. Lawrence R. Summering Rough-legged Hawks were abnormally common all along the St. Lawrence valley throughout the period. Single ad. Golden Eagles made untimely appearances at Gracefield 9 Jun (D. St-H et al.) and Hebertville 13 Jul (M. Tremblay, D. Gervais). A pair of Sandhill Cranes with a flightless young at Moffet 20 Jul represented a first breeding record for the Temiscamingue region (R. Roy, fide J. Frechette), while a bird at Bryson 12 Jun was noteworthy so far s. (M. Lalancette, P. Houde). For the 2nd consecutive year, a pair of Willets nested at Dune du Nord, lies de la Madeleine (DGG, CA. Gaudet, C. Roy). One Willet was found, of all places, along Selbaie Road, in the middle of the bore- al forest 27 Jun, providing a 2nd record for the Abitibi region (P. Drapeau, /ide R. Deschenes). Always rare, an imm. Long-tailed Jaeger was spotted from the Trois-Pistoles ferry 14 Jun (CG, CA). Great Black-backed Gulls appeared to be doing well in the Montreal area, as evi- denced by the four pairs successfully nesting at the Lachine rapids (PB, JC. Sorel). A new colony of Black-legged Kittiwakes comprised of 137 nests was discovered 24 Jun near Les Escoumins at the w. limit of the species’s range (CG, J. Desbiens, A. Body). Caspian Terns are increasingly common in summer in s. Quebec, where peak counts were 7 at Longueuil 17 Jun, 12 off He des Soeurs 23 Jun, 12 at He Charron 2-18 Jul, 20 at Maple Grove 7 Jul, and 13 at He 410 North American Birds Quebec — New England Grosbois 8 Jul {fide PB); smaller groups were scattered throughout the Region. An early juv. was at Maple Grove 22 Jul, but local breeding remains to be confirmed. Two ad. Chlidonias terns flying away from the observer at lie Charron, Boucherville 23 Jun were believed to be White-winged Terns (Y. Gauthier). Both birds exhibited immaculate white tail and rump as well as white upperwings, contrasting with black head and body. Unfortunately, the underwing pattern could not be seen. Although there are now six records in the province, this is the first sighting involving two ads. OWLS THROUGH SPARROWS The Barred Owl nested well e. of its normal range in the province, as shown by the pres- ence of an ad. and a juv. 5 Jul at Mont-Sainte- Genevievre, 36 km e. of Havre-Saint-Pierre on the lower North Shore (Y. Rochepault, CB). In the wake of last winter’s invasion, an ad. and 2 juv. Great Gray Owls were found 15 Jul in the Reserve faunique des Laurentides, well outside their normal breeding range (Y. Hamel, J. Desmeules). Also exceptional was a pair at Pointe-au-Pere for most of Jul (J. Marcoux, S. Rheaume, m. ob.). A Red-headed Woodpecker reported at Sainte-Petronille 29 Jun-1 Jui represented the northernmost sighting for the summer (C. Touzin). The Abitibi region was graced by a singing Sedge Wren at Arntfield 6-7 Jun, the first ever for the area (E Bedard). Most proba- bly related to the unprecedented movement of Northern Wheatears in Newfoundland last Spring, 2 males of this species were found at Grande-Entree, lies de la Madeleine 7 Jun (CT, ML). For a 3rd consecutive year, the Golden- winged Warbler was almost absent from the Region {fide SD); no breeding attempts were noted even at sites where it used to nest. It is hard to explain the “crash” of the species con- sidering the relative health of its habitat and the absence of the competitive Blue-winged Warbler in the Region. A Clay-colored Sparrow hybridized with a Chipping Sparrow at Saint- FidHe 1 Jun-4 Jul (M. Robert). The first Vesper Sparrow in lies de la Madeleine since 1978 made a brief appearance at Pointe-aux-Loups 18 Jun (CT, ML). A total- ly unexpected Grasshopper Sparrow at Val d’Espoir 20 Jun-22 Jul represented the first ever for the Gaspesie region (M. Larivee, O. Deruelle). In its normal range in the sw. regions, the species seems to be disappearing, mainly on account of habitat loss; neverthe- less, a pair was found carrying food at Saint- Lazare 21 Jun (PB), and singles were located at Charteris and at Yarm in Pontiac region 1 5 Jul (D. St-H, G. Desjardins). Finally, Abitibi’s first Lark Sparrow was a one-day wonder at Val- SennevUle 21 Jun (S. Lehouiller). Contributors (subregional editors in bold- face): C. Auchu, P. Bannon {Montreal), C. Buidin (Lower North Shore), DG. Gaudet {lies de la Madeleine), C. Girard, J. Lachance {Quebec City), M. Lagace, JL. Martel {Lower St. Lawrence), P. Poulin {Gaspesie), C. Roy {Bois- Francs), D. Saint-Hilaire, G. Savard {Saguenay- Lac-Saint-fean), D. Toussaint {Outaouais), C. Tremblay. New England Nenujcket f. ^MonomoyL Martha’s Vineyard ATLANTIC OCEAN Wayne R. Petersen Massachusetts Audubon Society 228 South Great Road Lincoln, Massachusetts 01 773 (wpetersen@massaudubon.org) Weather during the period was relatively uneventful this year. June was notably sunny and warm, with temperatures averaging several degrees above normal in Boston, even though rainfall actually exceeded the average by almost 2 inches. Jul was also sunny, but the month was dry and very cool, with the temper- ature averaging nearly four degrees Fahrenheit below normal. There seemed to be little indi- cation that weather during the period had any appreciable effect on breeding bird popula- tions, unlike the rainy and snowy March that definitely impacted nesting success of early breeders such as Bald Eagles and possibly sev- eral other raptor species. A brief summary of Regional breeding-sea- son highlights includes the discovery of a new nesting locality for Leach’s Storm-Petrels at the extreme southern terminus of the species’s breeding range in New England; further indi- cation of the negative impact of nesting Double-crested Cormorants on colonial water- bird nesting sites; confirmation that Common Eiders have firmly consolidated their breeding range to include Boston Harbor; indications that gull-removal programs in Massachusetts are beginning to pay dividends for breeding terns; information that Boreal Owls nested in northern New England; and a reminder that Chuck-will’s-widows still remain to be con- firmed as a breeding species in New England. In addition to the above, notable rarities in Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 411 Another tale of northward is expansion is that of Black Vulture into New England. This bird was photographed smartly on 2 July 2001 at Halibut Point, Rockport, Massachusetts, just a stone’s throw from the surf! Photograph by Byard Cobb. New England this season included Anhinga, a continuing (from May) Swainson’s Warbler, and an extraordinarily late Dovekie in Massachusetts; a Painted Bunting in New Hampshire; and a White-faced Ibis and a Western Meadowlark in Maine. Abbreviations: M.D.F.W. (Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife); Muskeget I. (Nantucket, MA); Noman’s Land I. (Dukes, MA); N. & S. Monomoy I. (Monomoy N.W.R., Chatham, Barnstable, MA); Plum I. (Parker River N.W.R., Newbury/Rowley, Essex, MA); S. Beach (South Beach, Chatham, Barnstable, MA); Tuckernuck I. (Nantucket, MA). LOONS THROUGH VULTURES Most notable among several typical early-sum- mer Red-throated Loon reports was a bird in the Connecticut R. at East Haddam, Middlesex, CT 16 Jun (J. Morin, fide GH). In Vermont, a total of 34 nesting pairs of Common Loons successfully reared 48 young, the greatest pro- ductivity in the state since 1978 (fide E. Hanson). Farther s., Massachusetts hosted 23 pairs, 1 1 of which fledged 8 young (fide BB). Pied-billed Grebes made news in Massachusetts when a pair raised 3 young at Willowdale State Forest, Ipswich, Essex, the first confirmed nesting in that county in many years (JB). “Tardy” best describes a Horned Grebe at Essex, Middlesex, CT 1 1 }un (A. Griswold, fide GH). Overall, inshore tubenose numbers were typical of recent past seasonal totals, with the notable exception of a robust count of 6 Cory’s Shearwaters, 350 Sooty Shearwaters, 60 Manx Shearwaters, 850 Wilson’s Storm-Petrels, and 6 Leach’s Storm-Petrels tallied off S. Beach 29 lul (}T). A three-hour seawatch that logged 61 Manx Shearwaters at Andrew’s Point, Rockport, Essex, MA 26 Jul (RH) was equally noteworthy. More interesting was the discovery of at least three pairs of Leach’s Storm-Petrels nesting on Noman’s Land off Martha’s Vineyard 13 Jun (TF), thus establishing a 2nd Massachusetts location for this species at the s. terminus of its breeding range in the Atlantic Ocean. Disquieting news on the burgeoning Double-crested Cormorant front was suggest- ed by the fact that on Little Gould 1. in the Sakonnet R., RI, a cormorant colony that start- ed with a single pair in 1987 and grew to 753 pairs in 1996 has now declined to 596 pairs, apparently because guano from the colony is killing the nest trees and rendering the island unacceptable to both cormorants and nesting herons (RF fide DE)! Anhingas in Massachusetts continue to tantalize those not able to be at the right place at the right time to see them; however, this season singles at Essex, Essex 17 Jun (TY) and Avon, Norfolk 19 Jun (RT) were especially well seen and described in flight. The confirmed breeding of Least Bittern in Massachusetts at Rockport and Willowdale State Forest, Ipswich, Essex (v. o.) is noteworthy in light of the fact that the species is listed as Endangered in the Bay State. Elsewhere in Massachusetts, a count of fledgling wading birds at Kettle L, Essex 18 Jul (SP) included 140 Great Egrets, 300 Snowy Egrets, lO-l- Little Blue Herons, 4 Tricolored Herons (the first con- firmed Bay State nesting since the mid-1970s), and 30-1- Glossy Ibises. Tricolored Herons also nested at Stratton L, Saco, York, ME for the first time since 1997 (fide KG). In Rhode Island, heron and egret nest tallies from the Sakonnet R./Narragansett Bay region included 219 Great Egrets, 86 Snowy Egrets, 16 Little Blue Herons, one Cattle Egret, 275 Black-crowned Night- Herons, and 185 Glossy Ibis (RF, fide DE). Practically all Ocean State wading bird species except Great Egret have shown notable declines since the 1970s, and this year’s ibis total was the 2nd lowest in over a decade. Of special note was the reappearance 8-14 Jul of a White- faced Ibis in “fading plumage,” originally seen in May at Scarborough, Cumberland, ME (LB, RL). Although there was speculation about the possibility of breeding (with what?) at nearby Stratton L, there was apparently no firm evi- dence to support such a claim. Black Vultures continue to consolidate their claim in s. New England, as indicated by multi- ple reports from w. Massachusetts, including a bird sitting on rocks within 100 feet of the ocean (!) at Halibut Point S.P., Rockport, Essex, MA 2 Jul (ph. B. Cobb) and a road-killed indi- vidual found at Derby, New Haven, CT (fide GH). WATERFOWL THROUGH RAPTORS A reminder of the lateness of their migration and the overland track of their spring flight was provided by a Brant at Errol, Coos, NH 5 Jun (G. Gavutis) and 150 at Florence, Hampshire, MA 7 Jun (TG). A Northern Shoveler in the Lordship marshes in Stratford, Eairfield, CT 13 Jul (MS) was intriguing in that it was at a local- ity known to have hosted other uncommon breeding puddle duck species in the Nutmeg State. Waterfowl on the tardy side of the ledger included Ring-necked Ducks at Plum 1. 6 Jun (RH), W. Tisbury, Martha’s Vineyard 10-12 Jun (G. Ben David, fide B.O.) and Hadley, Hampshire 28 Jun (C. Gentes, fide B.O.); a Long-taOed Duck at Rockport, Essex, MA 26 Jul (J. Barber, fide B.O.); 2 Common Goldeneyes at Trustom Pond N.W.R., RI 18 Jul (CR); and a Ruddy Duck at Southwick, Hampden, MA 1 Jun (SK) and 2 at Melrose, Middlesex, MA 14-15 Jul (D. & 1. Jewell). An amazing tally of 214 Common Eider ducklings in Boston Harbor, Suffolk, MA 8 Jun (P. Paton) suggests that this species has finally established a substantial Bay State breeding population 412 North American Birds New England away from Buzzards Bay. Common Mergansers made news by breeding only a few mi from Bridgeport, Fairfield (D. Varza, ftde GH), part of the gradual southward spread of this species as a breeder in Connecticut. The continued recovery of Regional Osprey populations is perhaps best reflected by the fact that 41 nests fledged 77 young in Vermont, where numbers have exceeded the recovery goal set for delisting the species in 1994. The next step in the Vermont recovery plan is to try to link the Green Mountain State Osprey pop- ulation with populations in Massachusetts and Connecticut by establishing a “breeding corri- dor” along the Connecticut R (fide L. Garland). The now- annual early summer appearance of Mississippi Kite in Massachusetts was this year provided by sin- gles at N. Truro and Yarmouth, Barnstable 4 Jun (D. Manchester, fide B.O.) and 6 Jun (B. Loughran, R Trimble, fide B.O.); another was at Oxford, New Haven, CT 24 Jun (K and B. Finnan, /ide GH). Bald Eagles showed a simi- larly positive, though less dramatic, trend, as indicated by the presence of 3 nests at L. Umbagog, Coos, NH (ftde WT), 12 territorial pairs in Massachusetts, 5 of which successfully fledged 10 young (ftde TF), and a new pair in Connecticut’s Housatonic R. drainage, a first successful breeding away from the Connecticut R. {fide GH). The confirmed nesting of Northern Harriers at Plum I. was the first in Essex in 40 years (RH). Elsewhere, six pairs of harriers raised 16 young at Tuckernuck I., MA {fide RV), and a pair was present throughout the period at Stratford, Fairfield, CT {fide GH). Sharp-shinned Hawks fledged 3 young at Willowdale State Forest, Ipswich, MA, for the 2nd confirmed nesting in Essex in as many years (JB). The almost meteoric increase and spread of Cooper’s Hawks in s. New England was intimated by the presence of a nesting pair at unlikely (?) Tuckernuck L, MA (RV), and another pair nesting 30 feet above a well-used suburban driveway in Natick, Middlesex, MA (E. Taylor). Despite continued concern over diminishing American Kestrel numbers throughout the Region, a nest box trail main- tained in cranberry bogs in Plymouth, MA this year produced 117 young from 38 occupied nest boxes out of a total of 65 boxes monitored (JM). Out-of-season migrant Merlins included singles at Truro, Barnstable, MA 6 Jun (MF), Plum I. 14 Jun (JS), and Grafton, Worcester, MA 22 Jul (ML), and nesting was confirmed at Hanover, Grafton, NH {fide WT) and Morrisville, Lamoille, VT 28 Jul {fiide AA), and probable breeding took place at Camden, Knox, ME {fide JD). Information available at the time of writing indicates that 12 nesting pairs of Peregrine Falcons in New Hampshire represented a modern-day high total, and in Massachusetts, four out of five breeding pairs successfully fledged 13 young {fideTB). RAILS THROUGH SHOREBIRDS The ever-elusive King Rail was reported from three Massachusetts localities this season {fide B.O.), and a total of 8 Virginia Rails at Noman’s Land off Martha’s Vineyard 16 Jul (RL) seemed like a surprisingly remote location for such a number. Aside from birds at two traditional Maine localities, the only Common Moorhen reported was one in Brookfield, Worcester, MA 3 Jun (ML). This species continues to decline in s. New England as many historic breeding localities change, either through natural wet- land succession or by becoming overrun and despoiled by exotic or invasive vegetation. As has increasingly become the custom in recent years, no fewer than 3 Sandhill Cranes were present in both New Hampshire and Maine during the period {fideWF & JD). American Golden-Plovers were somewhat unseasonal at Plymouth, Plymouth, MA 3 Jun (WP) and Duxbury, Plymouth, MA 3 Jul (DC), as were a Willet of the race inornatus at S. Beach 13 Jun (BN) and a lingering Purple Sandpiper at Seavey L, Isles of Shoals, NH 2-6 Jul (RS, AL fide WT). A Marbled Godwit at S. Monomoy 1. 23 Jun (RL), a Curlew Sandpiper at Plum L 27 Jun (RH), a Ruff at Monomoy 1. 23-26 Jun (RL, BN), and 2 Red Phalaropes off Cutler, Washington, ME 23 Jun (PL) were also somewhat out of season. Based upon reports of a pair of American Oystercatchers with 2 young in the vicinity of Saco Bay, York, ME, it seems probable that the species nested success- fully at Stratton 1. again this year {fide JD). Among the more notable tallies of tarrying northbound species were 250 Semipalmated Sandpipers at Plum 1. 6 Jun (RH) and 45 White-rumped Sandpipers at both Plum 1. 4 Jun (RH) and N. Monomoy 1. 8 Jun (BN). Of the early southbound species, the most inter- esting were 7 Hudsonian Godwits at S. Beach 26 Jun (BN) and a Stilt Sandpiper at Plum 1. 28-30 Jun (P. Brown et al.). Birds whose direc- tion of migration was indeterminate included a Whimbrel at S. Wellfleet, Barnstable 19 Jun (J. Sones), another at Martha’s Vineyard 13 Jun (MP, PL), and 95 Red Knots at South Beach 26 Jun (BN). The knots were likely southbound or oversummering. Peak shorebird counts made at South Beach included 1400 Semipalmated Plovers, 220 Willets, 95 Hudsonian Godwits, 2000 Red Knots, 3500 Sanderlings, 4000 Semipalmated Sandpipers, and 3200 Short- billed Dowitchers 27 Jul (RH, BN). Other sea- sonal high tallies were 480 summering Black- bellied Plovers at S. Beach (BN), 750 Lesser Yellowlegs at Newburyport, Essex 12 Jul (RH), 6500 Semipalmated Sandpipers at Plum 1. 24 Jul (RH), and 42 Stilt Sandpipers at Plum 1. 22 Jul (RH). The continued presence of 2—3 Wilson’s Phalaropes apparently holding terri- tory at Plum 1. throughout Jun suggests that they nested this year, just as they have presum- ably done irregularly since 1979 (v. o.). JAEGERS THROUGH ALCIDS Jaeger totals were unexceptional this season, although reports of a South Polar Skua and 7 Pomarine Jaegers at Cox’s Ledge s. of Block L, RI 3 Jun (CN) and a group of 9 Pomarine Jaegers observed following the clearing of an onshore fog bank at Sakonnet Point, Newport, RI 24 Jun (RE) were of interest. At L. Champlain, VT, where seabird watches have become increasingly organized in recent years, at least 4 jaegers were sighted during Jul {fide AA). A Laughing Gull at Cabot, Washington, VT 15 Jul {fide AA) was notable so far inland, but it was eclipsed by an ad. Franklin’s Gull at Plum 1. 12 Jun (RH), where one to 2 Little Gulls and up to 3 Black-headed Gulls were also seen throughout most of the period (RH, v. o.). Perhaps more significant was the fact that the Massachusetts Laughing Gull breeding popula- tion of 1322 pairs was a 21% increase over last year and virtually represented a new modern- day high count {fide BB). Out-of-season Iceland Gulls included singles at Portland, Cumberland, ME 14 Jun (PL, LB et al.) and Bar Harbor, Hancock, ME 20-31 Jul (WTo). After last summer’s Lesser Black-backed Gull explo- sion on Cape Cod, a high count of 4 at S. Beach 27 Jul (RH) seemed paltry; however, a tally of 26 Black-legged Kittiwakes at Chatham, Barnstable, MA 30 Jun (BN) was certainly unexpected. Despite the presence of 2 Caspian Terns at Young L, L. Champlain, VT 23 Jul {fide AA), apparently no nesting evidence was obtained following last summer’s tantalizing suggestion of the possibility. The only other Caspian Tern reports were of 5 individuals at three Bay State locations during Jun and early Jul (B.O.). Of 6 Royal Terns reported throughout the Region, one at Biddeford, Saco, ME 15 Jun (PM) was farthest north, but even more interesting was a Sandwich Tern at Stratton L, Saco, ME 18 Jun (PM) that represented only the 10th (?) record for the Pine Tree State. At White 1. and Seavey L, Isles of Shoals, NH, a pair of Roseate Terns fledged one young for the first time ever among a colony of 800 pairs of Common Terns (DH, AL). Less heartening was the 20% decline in Roseate Tern pairs in the Bay State, down to Volume 55 {2001), Number 4 413 1697 pairs, from the last season; however, the reasons for the decline are unknown (fide BB). Common Terns received mixed reviews at Rock I. and Popasquash L, L. Champlain, VT, where 175 pairs represented the highest total since the 1980s, although the 14 surviving chicks was the worst productivity in 14 years {fide M. LeBarr). Farther s., at Muskeget L, MA, 165 nesting pairs of Common Terns rep- resented a giant step in a recovery effort to get nesting terns back to that historic colony site (RV), and the Massachhusetts state total of 14,378 pairs represented the highest since 1970 {fide BB). A pair of Forster’s Terns present at Plum 1. throughout Jun (RH) offered no indi- cation of breeding this year. The only conclu- sive breeding of Black Skimmers in the Region was provided by approximately three pairs that fledged chicks at Cockenoe I., Norwalk, Fairfield, CT (A. Hand, fiide GH) and three pairs at Monomoy {fide BB). The alcid of the season was a Dovekie observed at Nahant, Essex, MA 23 Jun and 8 Jul (J. Jokela, RH) that established an extraordi- narily late state record, if not a late date for the entire Region. Less remarkable, but nonethe- less notable, was a Common Murre at Chatham, Barnstable, MA 1 Jun (PF), 3 Razorbills at Menemsha, Martha’s Vineyard, throughout Jul (R. Cohen, VL et al.), and sin- gle Atlantic Puffins at Noman’s Land off Martha’s Vineyard 13 Jun (TF) and Plum I. 15 Jul (RH), with 3 at Rockport, Essex, MA 26 Jul (RH). DOVES THROUGH THRUSHES Enigmatic was a European Turtle-Dove killed by an automobile at Tuckernuck I., Nantucket, MA 19 Jul (N. Brewer, RV). Especially intrigu- ing is the fact that increasing numbers of this species are appearing in Iceland, and in May 200 1 , a turtle-dove was recorded on the French island of St. Pierre in Atlantic Canada {N.A.B. 55:3). Slightly encouraging news about Massachusetts’s beleaguered Short-eared Owl population came that two pairs raised 6 young at Tuckernuck I. and one pair raised 2 young at Nantucket I. (RV). If these insular breeding efforts cease, this species will be virtually extir- pated as a breeder in New England. A minimum of 1 1 calling Chuck-will’s-wid- ows at Martha’s Vineyard 12 Jun (VL, PL) underscores with irony the fact that this species has yet to be confirmed as a breeder in New England. Likewise, a robust total of 59 Whip-poor-wills at Lancaster, Worcester, MA 14 Jun (RL) during a now-annual survey rein- forces the value of monitoring known, high- density areas for this Regionally declining species. The scarcity of Red-headed The most extraordinary discovery of the summer was the confirma- tion of nesting Boreal Owls in New England. Although the actual breeding confirmation did not come until early Aug, the genesis of the story occurred in the White Mountains of New Hampshire on 29 Jul, when Rob Sawyer and his son were hiking at 4310 ft on Mt. Pierce, Bean’s Grant, Coos. Much to their sur- prise and delight, at 0730, the fortunate twosome discovered an ad. Boreal Owl along the trail they were hiking. The owl let them approach within 10 ft before fly- ing and landing ahead of them several times, ultimately disappearing into the heavy spruce forest adjacent the trail. This remarkable sighting ultimately led to the discovery and videotaping of at least one juv. Boreal Owl in the same vicinity on 4 Aug (SM). More specific details and loca- tion information of this remarkable dis- covery will be included in a subsequent seasonal report; however, suffice it to say that this event marks the first confirmed breeding of this species in the e. United States. This, however, is not the end of the story. Incredibly, in neighboring Vermont, a Boreal Owl flew into a mist net set for Bicknell’s Thrushes, and subse- quently a bird was heard vocalizing sever- al times in the same area throughout Jun (K. McFarland et al., fide SM)! This is a story whose final chapter has yet to be written. Woodpeckers in the Region was reflected by only two reports of singles at Pittsfield, Berkshire, MA (M. Thorne, fide B.O.) and Weston, Middlesex, MA 13—20 Jul (B. Fullerton, fide B.O.). Even more unusual was the presence of a pair of Three-toed Woodpeckers at Bethlehem, Grafton, NH 13 13-18 Jun (D. & G. McDonald, C. Bretton fide WT). This elusive woodpecker surely ranks as one of the rarest resident species in the Region. A single-locality migration total of 4 Olive- sided Flycatchers at Martin Burns W.M.A., Newbury, Essex, MA 1 Jun (S. Hedman, fide B.O.) was well above most counts in recent years. Two Acadian Flycatchers at Martha’s Vineyard 13 Jun (PL, MP) were at the same location where the species was first conclusive- ly confirmed as a breeder last year. In light of the species’s steady decline in e. Massachusetts, a count of 30 Least Flycatchers at Barre Falls Dam, Barre, Worcester, MA 16 Jun (ML) was encouraging. Also in respect to this species, it is interesting to note that in 14 years of forest breeding bird monitoring at Hiram Fox W.M.A., Chester, Hampden, MA, Least Flycatchers declined from a high total of 27 birds in the early years to one this season, apparently in response to habitat changes pro- duced by the forest-cutting practices of the mid-1990s (/Jde M.D.F.W.). The Region’s only Scissor-tailed Flycatcher appeared at Topsham, Cumberland, ME 14 Jun-3 Jul (C. Jack et al., fide JD). “Seasonally anomalous” best describes the one-day appearance of a Loggerhead Shrike at Scarborough, Cumberland, ME 7 Jun (G. Shriver, fide JD). YeUow-throated Vireos were said to be more numerous than usual in cen. Massachusetts this summer (GL), and the presence of a Blue- headed Vireo at Tiverton, Newport, RI 17 Jun (RE) for the 2nd year in a row suggested the possibility of a modest range extension within the Ocean State. That Fish Crows are now established throughout Cape Cod in summer was indicated by one at Truro, Barnstable, MA 4 Jun (MF). Five Sedge Wren reports included 2 at Hadley, Hampshire, MA 1-5 Jun (B. Kane, fitde B.O.), 2 at Durham, Strafford, NH 25-31 Jul (ph. SM), and one at Wesley, Washington, ME 10 Jul {fide JD). A comprehensive census by canoe of what may be the Bay State’s largest colony recorded 304 singing Marsh Wrens along the North River, Plymouth, MA 14 Jun (DC, D. Peacock). Northern Wheatears made unusual early-summer appearances at Pondicherry W.R., Jefferson, Coos, NH 3 Jun (D. Govatski, J. Fyon, /Jde WT) and Rochester, Windsor, VT 24 Jun (H. & H. Brown, /JdeAA). These were likely tied to the influx of the species in the Northeast in late May. WARBLERS THROUGH FINCHES As Golden-winged Warblers continue to decline in New England, this year a glimmer of hope came from the Nutmeg State, where four to six pairs were noted between Cornwell, Litchfield (M. Dahl, fide GH) and two locations in Canaan, Litchfield (J. Zipp, fide GH). A Tennessee Warbler at Wellfleet, Barnstable, MA 29 Jun (MF) was anomalous, as were a Northern Parula at Nantucket 1. 27 Jun (S. Langer, fide B.O.) and a Bay-breasted Warbler at Barre, Worcester, MA 21 Jul (ML). However, a Northern Parula at Middleborough, Plymouth, MA 22 Jul (WP) was thought to be on territory at one of the few suspected nesting sites in Massachusetts. Four Cerulean Warblers on Mt. Holyoke, Hampshire, MA in Jun (GL) was quite a concentration for the Bay State, and at least one bird was back at Pawtuckaway S.P., 414 North American Birds New England — Hudson-Deiaware Rockingham, NH 9 Jun (A. Delorey, v.o., fide WT). A singing Swainson’s Warbler originally discovered in May remained at Naushon L, Dukes, MA until 3 Jun (S. Storer, fide B.O.). Always among the earliest fall warbler migrants, a Northern Waterthrush at Boston, Suffolk, MA 27 Jul (G. Tepke fide B.O.) was right on schedule. Louisiana Waterthrushes feeding young at Manchester 24 Jun (RH) con- firmed a new, and only the 2nd known, breed- ing locality in Essex, MA. A Yellow-breasted Chat at Truro, Barnstable, MA 6 Jun (MF) was assumed to be a late migrant. Out-of-place sparrows included Clay-col- ored Sparrow at Lancaster, Worcester, MA 12 Jun-6 Jul (RL), a Lark Sparrow at Tuckernuck I., MA 25 Jul (RV), and a Dark-eyed Junco at Melrose, Middlesex, MA 27 Jun (D. & I. Jewell, fide B.O.). In the absence of comprehensive grassland sparrow survey data this season, the most notable reports were 100 Vesper Sparrows at Columbia Falls, Washington, ME 26 Jun (N. Famous, /ide JD) and 46 Grasshopper Sparrows at Lancaster, Worcester, MA 6 Jul (RL). A Painted Bunting at New Castle, Rockingham, NH 11-13 Jun (v.o., fide WT) was one of very few records for the Granite State. Dickcissels in Connecticut at Hampden, Middlesex 4—5 Jun (J. Zipp, fide GH) and Litchfield, Litchfield 9 Jun (MS) appeared to be migrants or wander- ing birds. A Western Meadowlark discovered in May was still present at Norridgewock, Somerset, ME 14 Jun (WSL. Bevier, v.o., fide JD). Curiously, this species has notably declined as a vagrant to New England since the 1960s and 1970s, when it was significantly more regular. Yellow-headed Blackbirds were represented by singles at E. Kingston, Rockingham, NH 4 Jun (ph. SM) and Milford Point, New Haven, CT 5 Jun (F. McBride, /ide GH). At the species’s only breeding station in New England, a pair of Boat-tailed Grackles raised 3 young at Stratford, Fairfield, CT (D. Varza, fide GH). In Massachusetts, Orchard Orioles bred in Cheshire for the first confirmed nesting in Berkshire since 1948 (C. Quinlan), and a pair at Portland, Cumberland, nested at the species’s only know breeding locality in the Pine Tree State (KG, fide JD). Seasonally extralimital were pairs of Evening Grosbeaks at Barkhamsted, Litchfield, CT 22 Jun (D. Pelletier, fide GH), Carlisle, Middlesex, MA 20 Jun (D. Brownrigg, fide B.O.), and Mattapoisett, Plymouth, MA 7 Jul (M. LaBossiere, fide B.O. ) . Cited observers (subregional editors in bold- face; contributors in italics): Anne Aversa, Jim Berry, Brad Blodget, Bird Observer, Lysle Brinker, Jody Despres, David Emerson, Robert Emerson, Mark Faherty, Richard Ferren, Peter Flood, Tom French, Tom Gagnon, Kay Gammons, Larry Garland, Greg Hanisek, Eric Hanson, Dan Hayward, Rick Heil, Seth Kellogg, Rob Lambert, Vern Laux, Mark LeBarr, Geoff LeBaron, Andrew LeFrancois, Paul Lehman, Ron Lockwood, Mark Lynch, Joey Mason, Steve Mirick, Pat Moynahan, Julie Nicholson, Blair Nikula, Chris Nunes, Matt Pelikan, Simon Perkins, Wayne Petersen, Chris Raithel, Marj Rines, Jan Smith, Wally Sumner, Rebecca Suomala, Mark Szantyr, William Taffe, Mark Taylor, Russ Titus, William Townsend (WTo), Jeremiah Trimble, Richard Veit, Tom Hudson-Deiaware Robert M Adifondaci Forest Preserve Derby Htll NEW YORK Rochester • Monlezuma NWR Princelon Hawk Ml Green Lane Res. " Philadelphia' 'Brigantine Rd. Cape May ^Henlopen, iiDEj Jamaica Bay Ref. Sandy Hook man R fniei ATLANTI OCEAN Robert 0. Paxton 460 Riverside Drive, Apt. 72 New York, New York 1 0027 (rop1@columbia.edu) Joseph C. Burgiel 331 Alpine Court Stanhope, New Jersey 07874 (burgiei@aium.mit.edu) David A. Cutler 1003 Livezey Lane Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19119 (dacutler@dcipaper.com) After a wet late May, summer was dry, espe- cially in the north. June had hot, humid periods, exceeding 90 degrees Fahrenheit in the Adirondacks, whereas July was more com- fortable— a generally favorable breeding sea- son weatherwise. Pelagic birding was exciting off Long Island and New Jersey 23-24 June, from shore as well as at sea, apparently coin- ciding with the presence of a plume of warmer water. In a relatively uneventful summer oth- erwise, rarities included Brown Boobies, the Region’s second Little Egret, and a White- winged Dove. Amidst relentless habitat degradation in the Region, we can celebrate a few victories. In the Port of Wilmington, state and local officials are restoring 190 acres of wetland as the Russell W. Peterson Urban Wildlife Refuge. Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 415 This downtown wetland with its skyscraper backdrop could rival New York’s Jamaica Bay and Philadelphia’s John W. Heinz Refuge (Tinicum). Piping Plovers rallied under strin- gent protection measures, and herons nested in New York harbor in numbers unimaginable 30 years ago. New York state’s birders are pro- ducing a second atlas, twenty years after their first. This represents the first such follow-up effort, and some early results this summer proved of interest. Abbreviations: Bombay Hook (Bombay Hook N.W.R., near Smyrna, DE); Brig (Brigantine Unit, Edward P. Forsythe N.W.R., Atlantic, NJ); Conejohela Flats (Susquehanna R. at Washington Boro, Lancaster, PA); Fort Drum (Fort Drum Military Installation, Watertown, Jefferson, NY); The Four Brothers (islands in L. Champlain, off Willsboro, Essex, NY); Jamaica Bay (Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge, New York City); Lakehurst (Lakehurst Naval Air Engineering Station, Ocean, NJ); L. I. (Long Island, NY); N.Y.D.E.C. (New York Department of Environmental Conservation). LOONS THROUGH CORMORANTS A survey of 130 upstate New York lakes and ponds 21 Jul by 200 volunteers for the new Adirondack Cooperative Loon Program found 306 adults, 59 chicks, and 6 imm. Common Loons (JO, N. Schoch). These figures start a new baseline, as earlier surveys were less thorough. Pied-billed Grebes, recently rated Endangered in Delaware, bred in three places in the n. of the state: Brandywine Town Center, the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal Natural Area, and Bombay Hook. The best place for them in e. Pennsylvania was Glen Morgan L., Berks, where 11 ads. and 15 chicks were observed 2 Jun (K. Lebo). Another fine population was 14 atlased at Fort Drum (JBo). For the 2nd Jul in a row and 3rd time since 1997, a post-breeding Eared Grebe appeared 14 Jul and lingered at the Batavia W.T.P., Genesee, NY (BK, WW). The same individual(s) may be involved. Tubenoses were abundant close to Long Island and the New Jersey shore 23-24 Jun but relatively scarce off Delaware. It was exception- al to see about 60 shearwaters, mostly Greater, near the surf line off Democrat Pt., Sujfolk, L. 1. (PLi, SM), as well as a few Greaters inside adja- cent Jones Inlet 23 Jun (RJK). Another floated past astonished swimmers at Monmouth Beach, Monmouth, NJ 24 Jun (D. Sutherland). Out of Barnegat, NJ toward Wilmington Canyon, also 24 Jun, a count of 400-500 Greater Shearwaters was high (B. Johnson). The only Manx Shearwaters reported were 2 ca. 20 mi s. of Montauk Pt., L.I. 12 Jul (S. Biasetti). Many Wilson’s Storm-Petrels came within a half-mile of Montauk 24 Jun (D. Heglund), and the same day, in bad weather, 37 were in the surf line near Cape Henlopen, DE (A. Dudley). One or 2 Leach’s Storm-Petrels 9 Jun out of Lewes, DE constituted the 3rd Jun observation in a row; there are very few state records (APE, FONT). Two Brown Boobies were convincingly described off Long Beach L, Ocean, NJ 8 Jun (D. & M. Burk), a 6th state record approved by the state’s records committee. A few imm. Northern Gannets always summer offshore, but 65 pass- ing Cape Henlopen in three hours in bad weather 23 Jun (A. Dudley) made for a Delaware summer high count. Although Brown Pelicans were scarce elsewhere, numbers took up residence in Barnegat Bay in mid- Jul. On 31 Jul, 420 were there, two-thirds of them ads. One partial nest was observed here, as in 1992 and 1994 (JBr, M. Gochfeld, FL). For the 3rd sum- mer, the N.Y.D.E.C. oiled 5044 Double-crested Cormorant nests on Little Gallon L, in e. L. Ontario. Only 50 pairs fledged young, but since cormorant populations on the Canadian shore are uncontrolled, this program has uncertain effects (BL). Elsewhere, cormorant growth may be levelling off by natural processes and human disturbance. The New York harbor rookeries decreased slightly to 1178 nests (1312 last year), partly because the owners of Hoffman 1. cut some trees (PK). A new footpath reduced the Stony Brook, L. 1. colony from 75-(- to three nests (D. Futuyma). On the other hand, the Four Brothers colony in L. Champlain vaulted from 1346 nests last year to 2437 (JMCP). Details of an Anhinga soaring over Hartshorne Woods Park, Monmouth, NJ 4 Jun (SB, LM) have been submitted to the New Jersey Bird Records Committee. Eight prior records have been accepted, mostly of birds in spring, and records have been increasing since 1990. HERONS THROUGH WATERFOWL The New York City Audubon Society’s Harbor Herons Project, in its 18th year, censused 1,655 nests of nine species on 13 islands (PK). This is remarkable success for an area empty of heron- ries before the Clean Waters Act began to take effect in the 1970s. Overall figures were roughly stable though slightly below the 1995 peak of nearly 2000 nests. The commonest species was Black-crowned Night Heron (63% of the total), followed by Snowy Egret (14%), Great Egret (13%), and Glossy Ibis (8%). A remarkable 34 American and 3 Least Bitterns were atlased in Fort Drum (JBo), a density probably unmatch- able elsewhere in the Region. A stealthy kayaker confirmed the first Least Bittern fledgling in Chester, PA at Marsh Creek S.P. 19 Jun (J. McNamara). Up to 5 at Bombay Hook and 3 calling at Prime Hook N.W.R. 2 Jun (APE, FR) were good Delaware summer records. The season’s prize find was a Little Egret in breeding plumage, photographed at Bombay Hook 8-9 Jun (B. Cooper, J. Halpins) but unde- tectable afterwards among hundreds of other white waders. This was the 2nd regional record, following another in Delaware in Apr-Aug 1999. Cattle Egret populations have collapsed Regionwide. New York harbor nests have declined from over 100 in the early 1990s to three this summer (PK). Seven ads. were all the more remarkable at the Four Brothers 9 Jun (JMCP), where 20 bred in 1994. New York har- bor is probably the n. breeding limit for Yellow- crowned Night Herons (two nests, down from 14 in 1995). Surprisingly, a pair fledged 4 young inland at Allendale, Bergen, NJ (S. Thomas, R. Fanning), far from their usual fiddler crab diet. This summer’s White Ibis, an imm., was near Mt. Gretna, Lebanon, PA 8-14 Jul (ph. D. Wheeler). When all the figures are in. Glossy Ibis will probably show major declines Regionwide, hopefully only part of a cyclical pattern. The New York harbor population was down from 271 nests in 1995 to 125-t- this sum- mer. One was a very good find at the Four Brothers 9 Jun (JMCP), where a pair bred in 1999, and a Plegadis, probably this species, was rare, though not unprecedented, at Buffalo 21 Jun (BK). Single White-faced Ibis at Brig through 24 Jun, Cape May on 29 Jun, and Bombay Hook were about par. First identified in the Region in 1977, they are now annual. A Northern Shoveler, the Region’s least com- mon breeding puddle duck, had duddings at Batavia W.T.P., Genesee, NY 8 Jul (G. Seamans). Among many summering nonbreeding diving ducks, a King Eider was noteworthy at Cape Henlopen, DE in late Jul (DH et al.). Common Eiders apparently nested again on Fisher’s L, off e. Long Island, where New York’s first breeding was recorded last summer; these would be the southernmost breeders anywhere. RAPTORS THROUGH GROUSE Five species of raptor (Osprey, Red-tailed and Cooper’s Hawks, Peregrine Falcon, and American Kestrel) and three species of owl (Barn, Eastern Screech-, and Great Horned) were confirmed breeding within New York City (RDeC). Osprey had variable success. They “really exploded” in Delaware, with 95 nests, 87 of them in Sussex. A pair nested successfully in Wilmington, and seven pairs fledged 13 young in New York City. On e. Long Island, however, productivity was poor (M. Scheibel), perhaps suggesting a food shortage. The usual Mississippi Kites lingered sporadi- cally into summer at Cape May, a subad. and an 416 North American Birds Hiidson-Delaware Though South Polar Skua is well known as a late May through June migrant and summering species between North Carolina and New England, it is little known off states with less pelagic coverage. This individual was noted 9 June 2001 about 45 miles east of Fenwick Island, Delaware, a third state record. Photograph by Andrew P Ednie. ad., the latter last sighted 2 Jul (RC). Other late spring wanderers were at Hartshorne Woods Park, Monmouth, NJ 4 Jun (LM) and at Blue Mt. Lake, Berks, PA 2 Jun (H. & J. Silagy), the 2nd spring observation in a row for that county. Unusually late and farther afield were a subad. at Braddock Bay, Monroe, NY 30 Jun (DT), for the 2nd summer in a row, and another near Hellertown, Northampton 30 Jul (AK). The New York breeding popula- tion of Bald Eagles has approxi- mately doubled every five years since 1991; this summer, 56 breeding pairs (43 last year) produced 83 young (71 last year, reduced by heavy rains; P. Nye, N.Y.D.E.C.). We even began to hear grumbling about eagle depredation on young loons. Pennsylvania’s 13 nests east of the Susquehanna R. included five in Lancaster alone. Some of these aeries were in farmland far from large bodies of water, a sign of increasing adaptation to human presence (D. Brauning, Pennsylvania Game Commission). Delaware’s 17 active nests, one more than last year, fledged at least 20 young. Cooper’s Hawks continue to colonize subur- bia. We learned of at least five such cases in e. Pennsylvania. A pair bred in the Bronx, New York City for the first time since 1955 (RDeC), and a nest at the John W. Heinz Refuge, Philadelphia (Tinicum) was the first in 50 years of observation ( JM). Peregrine Falcons set more records in New York, with 45 breeding pairs (40 last year) producing 97 young (75 last year, when summer rains damaged productivity. especially in the Adirondacks). Several new Adirondack sites, all natural, were especially wel- come (B. Loucks, N.Y.D.E.C.). Spruce Grouse were upgraded in New York State in Dec 1999 from Threatened to Endangered. A survey conducted in 2000-2001 of 24 historically occupied locations found half no longer occupied. These sites, estimated to contain 175-315 individuals in 1985-1987, now hold only about 88-158 individuals. Spruce Grouse are now limited to the nw. quadrant of Adirondack Park, mostly in Hamilton (JO). SHOREBIRDS Piping Plovers recovered where they had some protection from predators and beach-buggies. New Jersey’s breeding population reached about 121 pairs, the 3rd consecutive small increase, but productivity fell to 1.39 fledged chicks per pair, a little below recent years. The most productive area, North Brigantine Natural Area, Ocean achieved a remarkable productivity of 2.17 by closing some areas to off-road vehicles and by controlling predators with electric fences and nest exclosures (DJ). In Delaware, aided by a fox-trapping pro- gram, six Piping Plover nests fledged 9 young at Cape Henlopen. This was the best crop in years, but Delaware has no other breeding area (A. Doolittle). In contrast to some recent years, all American Avocets had left Bombay Hook by mid-May. The first post-breeding returnees appeared 17 Jun and peaked at a modest 168 on 8 Jul (FR). Away from this stronghold, a wanderer ranged between Jones Beach and Jamaica Bay in Jul. Much more remarkably, 2 were at the Conejohela Flats on the Susquehanna R. 10 Jul (BS), and 2 — possibly the same — ^were at Sweet Arrow L., near Pine Grove, Schuylkill, PA 25-28 Jul (T. Clauser et al.). A Willet, surely inornatus, visited the Conejohela Flats 3 Jul (BS, J. Book, E. Witmer, T. Garner). Another appeared the same day at Ocean City, Cape May, NJ (RC). One at Westhampton, L.I. 22 Jul (SM, PLi) was at the same place and nearly the same date as one last year. It was even harder than usual to tell when spring shorebird migration ended and the first post-breeding birds returned. Surely a few non- breeders never leave. Likely examples this sea- son would include a Black-beUied Plover 16 Jun at the Chazy Riverlands, Clinton, NY, on L. Champlain (B. Krueger, C. Mitchell) and 40 of the same at Stone Harbor Pt., Cape May, NJ 12 Jun (M. Fritz); single Hudsonian Godwits at Primehook N.W.R., DE 13 Jun (MG, BGP, SD) and at Westhampton Beach, L. 1. 27 Jun; a Ruddy Turnstone at Myers Pt., Oswego, NY 1 1 Jun (D. Russell); and small parties of White- rumped Sandpipers in all three states 11-13 Jun; the latter were likely late spring migrants. Observers should note the plumage of these mid-Jun holdovers. Despite unconfirmed reports of chicks in Delaware, the Region’s southernmost Upland Sandpiper breeding site appears to be Lakehurst, NJ, which hosted about seven pairs this summer ( J. Joyce, P. Bacinski, SB). They also bred on Long Island at Gabriskie airport, Westhampton, and at John F. Kennedy airport. Even in the extensive grasslands of the St. Lawrence R. basin, only 9 were atlased at Fort Drum (JBo). Only 2 Curlew Sandpipers were found, well below the peaks of the 1970s. One at Bombay Hook in early Jun (CC, E. Short, SD et al.) held over from spring, while the other, at Stone Harbor Pt., Cape May, NJ 25 Jul-t- (K. Karlson et al.), was presumed to be south- bound. Delaware was again best for Ruffs: a black male appeared at Bombay Hook 18 Jun and departed early 4 Jul; the same afternoon, a chestnut male showed up and remained through the month. A Reeve was at Jamaica Bay after 29 Jul (TWB et al.). A female Wilson’s Phalarope at Bombay Hook after 15 Jun (MG, BGP) was probably an early post-breeding wan- derer; this species has nested in this Region only on L. Champlain, NY. JAEGERS THROUGH TERNS A South Polar Skua was remarkable inshore, among the tubenoses, off Democrat Pt., Suffolk, Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 417 L 1. 23 Jun (PLi, SM); the species frequents flocks of larger shearwaters in most summers off North Carolina (where it is occasionally seen from shore, mostly in Jun) and should be looked for in the Region at this time, particularly when shear- waters are present in numbers. If confirmed, this would be approximately the 9th New York obser- vation since the skuas were split in 1977. Another was off New Jersey toward Wilmington Canyon the next day (B. Johnson). The FONT trip out of Lewes 9 Jun found another, the 3rd Delaware record, all in the past three summers. A Pomarine Jaeger was unusual off Robert Moses S. R, L. I. 24 Jun, and a light-morph Pomarine at Point au Roche, Clinton, NY on L. Champlain 15 Jul was a very early migrant or summer wanderer (D. Hoag). The Laughing Gull colony near Kennedy Airport continues at about 3000 pairs; airport authorities still shoot birds on the runways, but less frequently, as fewer birds collide with aircraft than did in the past (DR). Errant Laughing Gulls in early June on L. Ontario at HamJin Beach S. R, Monroe, NY (WS, DT, M. Davids) and at Myers Pt., Oswego (BF) were fairJy typical, but 7 ads. were very unusual at Lock 7 on the Mohawk R. near Schenectady 25 Jul (RPY). Fewer Herring and Great Black-backed Gulls nested in New York harbor, partly because the islands are revegetating (PK). Summer records of Lesser Black-backed Gulls are increasing, but a third-year bird circling the boat 45 mi off Fenwick 1. 9 Jun (APE, FONT) constituted a first summer peJagic record for Delaware. Two Caspian Tern nests were found in Barnegat Bay, Ocean, NJ (JBr, FL), where only occasional single nests were found previously. The Roseate Tern count at Great Gull Island, off e. Long Island, was 1700, a little below last year but about the same as in 1999. The absence of any other important Long Island colony since the destruction by foxes of the Cedar Beach colony still causes concern (H. Hays). One Roseate loafed in a Barnegat Bay ternery sporadically through Jun (JBr, FL), but breeding remains unproven in New Jersey. The Forster’s Tern colony at Jamaica Bay, established in 1992, has increased to 80 pairs (DR). Farther e. on the s. shore bays of Hempstead, L.L, at their n. limit, Forster’s Terns have increased to about 150 pairs (JZ). Least Terns, always volatile in their nest-site selection and nesting success, responded to opportunity with a few huge colonies such as 195 pairs at Breakwater Beach, Mattituck, Snjfolk (B. Prentice) and 625 pairs at Nassau Beach (JZ), both on Long Island. Smaller colonies had trou- ble fending off gulls and other predators, or were crowded out by Common Terns. The total New Jersey population was estimated at about 1500 ads., close to last year’s census but well below the 2133 ads. estimated in 1991 (DJ). They are barely hanging on in Delaware; Delaware Shore S.P., where 200 pairs nested in the 1970s, had 12 nests this summer. The state’s only other potential breeding area was Big Stone Beach, Kent, where a couple of grown young were seen 31 Jul (APE). Black Skimmers nearly held their own in New Jersey, with an estimated 2410 ads. These occu- pied only eight sites, however, compared to 14 in the mid-1990s, making them more vulnerable (DJ). ^ II Black Terns are in serious trouble ^jF^at the southeastern edge of their range. A N.Y.D.E.C. survey found only 132 pairs in New York State, down from 235 when surveys began in 1989. Jefferson led with 71, followed by 27 in Tonawanda W.M.A. and 17 in St. Lawrence. Monroe, which had supported 34 pairs in 1989, had only two in 2001. Only 13 sites were occupied, compared with 21 in 1994. One reason for the decline is increased vegeta- tion density, due to invasive plants like purple loosestrife, and to the ending of water fluctuation by the operation of the St. Lawrence Seaway (I. Mazzocchi). Though s. lingerers have been noted in midsummer since 1921 (Witmer Stone, Bird Studies at Old Cape May [1937, repr. 1965], p. 594), they were more wide- spread this summer. Singles visited Northwest Harbor, L. 1. 9 Jun (BMcG) and Island Beach S. R, Ocean, NJ 6 Jun (G. Wenzelburger), and 3 were at Bombay Hook 2 Jun, one of which remained to mid- Jun (FR). The latest was at Port Penn Interpretive Center, DE 2 Jul (Philadelphia Birdline), while one at Island Beach S. R, Ocean 8 Jul (A. Tongas) was probably returning. DOVES THROUGH WOODPECKERS A White-winged Dove appeared briefly in Flanders, Suffolk, L. 1. 10 Jun (A. Baldelli). Northern Saw-whet Owls “may be more com- mon than we think” (BR). Fledglings were found in or near the yards of four experienced birders in the Oneida L. Basin of n-cen. New York (NG, J. Brin, E. Hahn, G. Alfano), as well as at Alfred, Allegany, NY (ph. EBr), the 2nd county record, as well as in the Adirondacks at Furnace Brook, s. Clinton, NY (E. Fitts). Common Nighthawks bred in a few rural sites, such as 26 atlased in Fort Drum, including four nests (JBo), and three nests in Wharton State Forest, in the Pine Barrens of sw. New Jersey (C. KriJowicz). Almost none remain in cities. Although Whip-poor-wills have long vanished from interior lowlands, they are still “fairly com- mon” on ridgetops in nw. Morris, Passaic, and Bergen, NJ, where about 35 were calling in the Ramapo, Copperas, and Green Pond Mountains 12-13 Jun (RR). At remote Fort Drum, 36 Whip- poor-wills were adased (JBo). Another strong- hold for them is coastal scrub. This summer “dozens” were calling 9 Jun near Hampton Bays, L.L (BMcG), while 4 were calling 2 Jun at Milford Neck W.A., Kent, DE (GL), an area known to birders as “goatsucker heaven.” Several observers thought Ruby-throated Hummingbirds had a good season. Yunick was in a position to know: he banded a record 119 at Jenny L., Saratoga, NY (including 33 returns, 2 of them at least six years old). Their daily sugar water intake rose to 500 g at the end of Jul, when the young fledged. Red-headed Woodpeckers appeared to extend their patchy distribution slightly in the lowlands. In New York, two nests were in Fort Drum (JBo), a pair was present at Como Park, near Buffalo (MM), and singles scouted in Chemung (C. & J. Wood) and in Tompkins (S. Podulka). Several sites near Cape May, NJ continue to be occupied. In e. Pennsylvania, we know of two locations in Berks (S. Fordyce, P. Saenger, M. Spence) and one in Bucks (AM). In Sussex, DE, a new site near Bridgeville (GL) has been added to the tradition- al two in Redding State Forest (APE, J. Swertinski) and at Assawoman W. A. (SD). FLYCATCHERS THROUGH TANAGERS We received two reports from n. New York of van- ishing Loggerhead Shrikes, 2 at Long Lake, Hamilton 21 Jul (J. Collins), and one 24 Jun at Geneseo (J. KimbaJl). There were no indications of breeding. Common Ravens are spreading out of the Allegany highlands into Wyoming and Erie, NY (fide MM) and now nest regularly in Morris and Passaic, NJ (RR, T. Vogel, B. Gallagher). Cliff Swallows have recently become established along the Niagara R. near Buffalo (BK, K. Fox). In Delaware, at the s. extremity of their e. coast range, they bred for the first time in five years, using two bridges over Appoquinimunk Creek near Odessa, New Castle. Sedge Wrens were not reported s. of Dutchess, NY (B. Kane); in addition to the usual upstate locations, a singing male was rare in the Adirondacks at Bloomingdale Bog, Essex 2 Jun-18 Jul (W. Lee, B. McAllister). A census for Golden-winged Warblers in Luzerne and Wyoming, PA turned up only Blue- wingeds. Farther n., at Fort Drum, Blue-winged Warblers gained ground; 15 pairs were atlased as against 33 Golden-winged Warblers (JBo). One place where Golden-winged Warblers have coex- isted with Blue-wingeds for a century is Sterling 418 North American Birds Hudson-Delaware Forest, Orange, NY, where 19 were atlased in power line cuts in summer 2001 compared to 3 Blue-wingeds. The two practice habitat segrega- tion, the Golden-winged Warblers preferring wedands (J. Confer, S. Pascoe). Six Brewster’s Warblers and 2 Lawrence’s Warblers were report- ed in New York, and 2 of each were noted in e. Pennsylvania. Northern Parula fledglings at Hither HOls S.P. (E. Salzman, J. Giunta) con- firmed the first breeding in 50 years on e. Long Island, foOowing last summer’s nesting on w. Long Island. Several observers commented on the abundance of Yellow Warblers in the Piedmont of Delaware and in se. Pennsylvania. At the John W. Heinz Refuge, 75-100 pairs have moved into new edge habitat created by cleaning an oil spill (JM). Adasing reveals a pattern of northward expan- sion of New York warbler ranges. Pine Warblers, formerly not found n. of Allegany S. R, now occur along the L. Ontario shoreline in Niagara (WW). Prairie Warblers were found in Erie for the first time (W. D’Anna, B. Potter), and a fledgling at Otisco, Onandaga 9 Jul (NG) was a first confir- mation in the Oneida L. basin (BP). A remarkable 24 singing males are worth mentioning at L. Nockamixon, Bucks, PA in late Jun (PhOadelphia Birdline). A Prothonotary Warbler feeding young in w. Monroe Twp., Oswego, NY 14 Jul (BP, J. Moore) was the first breeding record in the Oneida L. Basin since 1984. Hooded Warblers are turning up more often on the L. Ontario plain. Among warblers in trouble, Ceruleans could be found in only one of 10 sites in n. Morris and s. Sussex, NJ, where they nested in 1991 (RR), and they were also missing at a traditional site in Onandaga, NY (BP). Otherwise, we had scattered reports from Rockland (RJK), Oswego (BF, M. Sarver, M. Williams), and Tompkins (K. Edelstein), all in New York. An impressive eight pairs of declining YeOow-breasted Chats were at L, Nockamixon, Bucks, their stronghold in e. Pennsylvania (B. Etter). SPARROWS THROUGH FINCHES Clay-colored Sparrows, apparently moving in from Ontario, are now solidly established in n. New York. One nest near Andover, Allegany, NY 30 Jun (EBr) was near the state’s first breeding site of 1971. Among many remarkable records ten- dered were the 16 in the St. Lawrence basin of n. New York, including a pair feeding young in Parishville Twp., a first confirmed breeding for St. Lawrence (BL); 13, including fledglings, in a Christmas tree plantation at Yorkshire, Cattaraugus (BK); and 3 at Lodi, Seneca (P. Hosner, C. Smith). A Lark Sparrow at Gabriskie airport, Westhampton, L. 1. 19 Jul (B. May. T. Klauber) was a very rare mid-summer occur- rence in New York. Henslow’s Sparrows returned to their traditional site at W. Nicholson, Wyoming, PA but apparently did not stay to breed (WR). More were found in New Jersey than in recent summers: Willowwood Arboretum, Chester Twp., Morris (T. Halliwell, B&NM); Solberg Airport, Hunterdon (RR, W. Wander); Lakehurst; and the Alpha fields, Warren. For real numbers, however, one had to go to n. New York, where 14 were atlased in Fort Drum (JBo). Dickcissels tried again in the Region, though only in Delaware this time. Four or 5 males sang between Harrington and Milford, Kent, though breeding remained unconfirmed. This was not the same site as last summer. Orchard Orioles bred in Central Park, New York City for the first time since 1908. It was a big summer for Pine Siskins in upstate New York. Outside the Adirondacks, they were present spo- radically into Jul at Hamlin Beach on the L. Ontario shore in Monroe (WS) and at Amity L., Allegany, NY (VP). They bred at WoodhuU L., Oneida (BP) and at Burdett, Schuyler (J. & S. Gregoire). At Jenny L., Saratoga, Yunick banded a record 131, including many fledglings; all had dis- appeared by 15 Jul (RPY). EXOTICS A Ringed Turtle-Dove, a feral form frequently kept in captivity, was photographed near Smyrna, DE 31 Jul (CC), a reminder that it is imperative to scrutinize Streptopelia doves carefully. Two, perhaps 3 Eurasian CoUared- Doves were near Selbyville, Sussex, DE this summer, just north of the Maryland border (M. J. Iliff et al.). ADDENDA & CORRIGENDA The following items apply to the 2001 spring migration report. The observer of the Eared Grebe at Lansing, NY was K. McGowan. A single White Ibis was observed at Cape May, NJ 9 May (J. Pilgrim, A. Crutchley et al.). The ad. White-faced Ibis at Reed’s Beach was found by R. Crossley and remained until at least 19 May, while the imm. was present 12-27 May (K. Lukens et al.), though appar- ently they were never seen together. The imm. White-faced Ibis at Bivalve preceded the ad. and was seen only 10 May (S. Rottenborn et al.). And the Brig White-faced Ibis was pres- ent 16 May-24 Jun (K. McLean et al.). Tom Bailey’s Ross’s Goose photograph was taken on 9 Mar, not 9 May. The Black Brant at Brig 8 Apr was reported only by G. Armistead (t). The Black Rail at Jake’s Landing, NJ was noted by M. O’Brien. Tom Bailey’s photograph of the Ruff was taken on 9 May, not 27 May. Dates for the Mew Gull were 5, 10 Mar rather than May. The Black-tailed Gull reported last season is potentially New York’s 3rd, not 2nd, record. Observers (subregional compilers in boldface): Robert Andrle (Niagara Frontier Area), Scott Barnes (n. coastal NJ: Owl Haven, P. O. Box 26, Tennent, NJ 07763); Chris Bennett (Sussex, DE; Cape Henlopen S.P., 42 Cape Henlopen Dr., Lewes, DE 19958); Michael Bochnik (Lower Hudson Valley, NY; 86 Empire St., Yonkers, NY 10704), Jeff Bolsinger (JBo), Cyrus Brame (John W. Heinz N.W.R., Philadelphia), Elizabeth Brooks, Joanna Burger (JBr), T. W. Burke (NY Rare Bird Alert), Colin Campbell, Richard Crossley, Ward Dasey (s.w. NJ: 29 Ark Road, Medford, NJ 08055), Robert DeCandido, Samuel Dyke, A. P. Ednie (New Castle and Kent, DE: 59 Lawson Ave., Claymont, DE 19703), Vince Elia (s. coastal NJ: 106 Carolina Ave., Villas, NJ 08251), Focus on Nature Tours (FONT), Bob Fogg, Natalie Garcia, Jane Graves (Hudson-Mohawk, NY: Skidmore College, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866), K. C. Griffith (Genessee, NY; 61 Grandview Lane, Rochester, NY 14612), Mary Gustafson, Armas Hill (Philadelphia Birdline), Deuane Hoffman (lower Susquehanna, PA: 3406 Montour St., Harrisburg, PA 17111-1827), Dave Jenkins (NJ Dept, of Fish, Game, and Wildlife), Rudy Keller (Berks, PA: 71 Lutz Rd., Boyertown, PA 19512), Paul Kerlinger, Brendan Klick, Arlene Koch (Lehigh Valley, PA: 1375 Raubsville Rd., Easton, PA 18042), R. J. Kurtz, Paul Lehman (PLe), Fred Lesser, Pat Lindsay (PLi), Bob Long (St. Lawrence, NY; 2807 Citation Dr., Pompey, NY 13138), Glen Lovelace, Linda Mack, Bob McGrath, Hugh McGuinness (e. Long Island: hmcguinness @ross.org, 12 Round Pond La., Sag Harbor, NY 11963), John Miller, August Mirabella, Shai Mitra, Michael Morgante (Niagara Frontier, NY: 16 Lakeside Crescent, Lancaster, NY 14086), Bill and Naomi Murphy, BUI Ostrander (Finger Lakes, NY: 872 Harris Hill Rd., Elmira, NY 14903), John Ozard (N.Y.D.E.C.), Ed Patten (n.w. NJ: 9 Cornfield Terrace, Flemington, NJ 08822), Bruce G. Peterjohn, J. M. C. Peterson (Adirondack- Champlain Region, NY: Discovery Farm, RD 1, Elizabethtown, NY 12932), Vivian Pitzrick, Bill Purcell (Oneida Lake Basin, NY; 281 Baum Rd., Hastings, NY 13076), Rick Radis (n.c. NJ: 69 Ogden Ave., Rockaway, NJ 07866), William Reid (ne. PA: 73 W. Ross St., Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702), Don Riepe (Jamaica Bay), Frank Rohrbacher, Sy Schiff (Long Island: 603 Mead Terrace, S. Hempstead, NY 11550), Bob Schutsky, R. G. Spahn (Genesee Ornithological Society), Eric Sullivan (Susquehanna region, NY: 42 Patricia St., Binghamton, NY 13905), Pat Sutton (Cape May Bird Observatory), William Symonds, Dave Tetlow, William Watson, Al Wollin (Long Island: 4 Meadow Lane, Rockville Center, NY 1 1570), R. P. Yunick, John Zarudski. /) Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 419 Middle Atlantic Coast Marshall J. Iliff 901 Crystal Spring Farm Road Annapolis, Maryland 21403 (miliff@aol.com) This summer was extremely cool and wet, much cooler than average. At Baltimore- Washington International Airport in June and July, more days stayed below 80 degrees Fahrenheit than crested 90 degrees, almost unheard of in the Region. On a few days, the daily high did not top 70 degrees; on 1 June, the low was a chilling 45 degrees! Average maximum temperatures for June and July hovered right around 84, with minimum temperatures averag- ing 64 in June and 62 in July. The 3.5 inches of rain per month was above average. The cool and wet conditions must have affected nesting birds, but there were compara- tively little data to suggest how. Clapp, who keeps close track of nesting phenology reported that “despite the very mild weather, a cold snap in Mar strongly affected nest initiation in nest- ing passerines in Northern Virginia, with it being average or perhaps even late in the regard, unlike last year, where birds were consistently early following a mild winter and a mild March.” While most birders keep personal records of migrants and unusual breeders, observations and data such as these are most welcome for North American Birds. In Maryland, the new Maryland Breeding Bird Atlas project will begin 1 Jan 2002 and run for the next five years. Maryland’s last atlas was completed in 1987 and published in 1996. For information on how you can contribute, contact Jane Coskren at or 410-381-7344. The Maryland Ornithological Society is seeking a full-time coordinator who will handle inquiries in the future. Abbreviations: Bay (Chesapeake Bay); Chine. (Chincoteague N.W.R., Accomack, VA); Craney (Craney Island Dredge Spoil Containment Facility, Portsmouth, VA); D.C. (District of Columbia); Hart (Hart-Miller Dredge Spoil Containment Facility, Baltimore, MD); Middle Bay (Chesapeake Bay in MD, from Virginia line to Bay Bridge); p. a. (pending acceptance by state records committee); Upper Bay (Chesapeake Bay in MD, n. of Bay Bridge). Note that due to reporting biases, all locations can be assumed to be in Maryland except that each Virginia loca- tion is so noted the first time it is mentioned in the text. GREBES THROUGH WATERFOWL Always unusual in summer, a breeding- plumaged Horned Grebe was noted at Chesapeake Beach, Calvert 25 Jun-13 Jul (FS, JLS). Wilson’s Storm-Petrel has recently been shown to occur regularly in the Maryland por- tion of the Bay, evidenced by a count of 10 from the Smith I.-Pt. Lookout Ferry 23 Jun (RFR, S. Crabtree). A dozen seen off Hooper’s I., Dorchester 13 Jul (M. Banes) constituted only the 2nd county record, but given that it is just 20 mi n. of the above-mentioned ferry route, this is surely due more to lack of coverage than any- thing else. We are still learning the n. limit for this species in the Bay. Brown Pelicans, surely the most dynamic of the species expanding their breeding ranges into the Region in the past two decades, continued to keep in the news, as Maryland’s new nesters, the north- ernmost anywhere, enjoyed a second suc- cessful summer (Barnegat Bay, New Jersey’s pelicans again made several “partial nests” in 2001 but have not yet laid eggs). While Regional colonies remained stable, the massive mid- Jun influx of last year was not apparent in 2001. Last year, it seemed that the invasion in the Middle and Upper Bays may have occurred when the coloniz- ing birds drastically exceeded the capacity of the several small islands, and prospecting birds pushed far into the Upper Bay in search of other nest sites. If last year’s influx was comprised of “overflow” from the colonies, then perhaps this year’s lack of an influx was the result of a stabilization of the population to match the carrying capacity of the Bay, as determined by the available nest sites. This year, there were sporadic reports from the North Beach, Calvert area but none farther flung than that. At the large colony at South Marsh Pt. just s. of the Maryland line, Brinker and others banded upwards of 1500 young pelicans this year. One-hundred thirty-two young were band- ed at Spring I., Dorchester 4 Jun (DBr, fide HTA), and a number of ads. frequented Bodkin I., Queen Anne’s and even made nest platforms, but no eggs were laid. A new colony this year was found on a small islet off the s. tip of Barren I., Dorchester, with 200 pelicans there (ca. one- third ads.) and 15 nest platforms noted 5 Jun (J. McCann, fide HTA), but apparently no eggs were laid. Interestingly Brinker’s pelican banding efforts in the Bay are now yielding up to 100 recoveries annually, pro- viding a useful portrait of their movements. An American White Pelican noted at Bodkin 1. 5 Jun (p. a., M. A. Todd) was seen on various dates in Jun on Bodkin 1. (DBr) and various dates in Jul on Poplar I., Talbot (DBr), undoubt- edly the same bird that followed a similar pattern 420 North American Birds Middle Atlantic Coast last year. The Fisherman L, VA White Pelican was absent again in 2001. Five Anhingas heading n. over Cape Charles, Northampton, VA 25 Jun (ESB, SWH) were unusual; most Anhingas in the Region have been found in Apr, May, Aug, and Sep, though Jun 2001 saw three records of the species between New Jersey and Massachusetts. The one regular Regional location for Anhinga — ^Stumpy L. in Virginia Beach, VA — ^had at least one male throughout Jun and Jul. At Chimney Pole Marsh, Accomack, VA, about 20 Double-crested Cormorant nests continued this year (BW et al.). A Least Bittern seen and heard at Airlie, Fauquier, VA 8 Jun (TMD) would be an unusu- al Piedmont breeding record if in fact the bird represented part of a pair. There was a small movement of Tricolored Herons away from their typical areas, including one at Jug Bay 23 Jul (DBy), 2 at North Beach 25 Jul (JLS, TH), with one remaining to 27 Jul (TH), 2 imms. at Hart 28 Jul (DBy, JLS et al.), and most unusual, one near D.C. at Hunting Cr., Fairfax, VA 28-30 Jul (KG). An all-time high count of nesting White Ibis was garnered this year, with 127 attendant ads. counted in mid- Jun (BW et al.) at colonies on Wreck, Cobb, and Fisherman Is., all in Northampton, VA. One Snowy Egret at Univ. of Maryland Central Farm was rare for Howard 30 Jul-l- (SA, v. o.), while a Yellow-crowned Night-Heron, rare for Charles, was noted at Mattawoman Cr. 22 Jun-8 Jul (ph. GMJ, GB). Two Yellow-crowned Night- Herons at Fletcher’s Boathouse, D.C. 26 Jun-6 Jul (JHu et al.) were probably present through the season and nest- ing nearby. A White Ibis was at Craney 25-26 Jul, a location where the species has been noted irregularly in the past (AW, TG, BA, RK). Not seen in the Region in summer for several years, single Tundra Swans alternated between Dyke Marsh, Fairfax, VA (KG, v. o.) and Broad Cr., Prince George’s 27 May-27 Jul (DM), and there was one at Williamsburg, VA 30 Jul-l Jul (BW). Two American Wigeon were at Hart 30 Jun (DBy), with one remaining 14 Jul (DBy, SR et al.), and a Canvasback was noted there 2 Jun (EJS) and 21 Jul (JLS, SR, CE). Four Green- winged Teal at Elliott I. 28 Jul (HTA, CE) were a bit unseasonal but probably represented early fall migrants. A male Hooded Merganser at Fletcher’s Boathouse, D.C. 26—29 Jun (JHu, GM, BC) may have bred nearby, while a female at Hart 28 Jul+ (JLS, DBy et al.) was a bit more sur- prising, being in a freshwater dredge spoil impoundment 10+ mi from the nearest breed- ing habitat. Common Mergansers, at least one male and one female, were seen on the Potomac R. near the D.C.-Prince George’s line from May through Jul (FS, DM, v. o.); these, plus another at Conowingo Dam, Harford/ Cecil 23 Jun {fide PS), were among the rarer summering water- fowl. Other noteworthy late ducks, in order of rarity in summer, were: a White-winged Scoter at Elliott 1. 6 Jun (SA); a male Long-tailed Duck at Scientist’s Cliffs 18 Jul (S. Hamilton); one to 3 Long-tailed Ducks at Ft. Smallwood, Anne Arundel 28 May-3 Jun (SR); a male Canvasback at Dyke Marsh 17 Jul (KG) and Hunting Cr. 22 Jul (SS), the latter two records possibly of the same individual; and single male Ring-necked Ducks in the Dyke Marsh area 6 Jun-23 Jul (KG, SS et al.) and at Airlie through 8 Jun (TMD). Both scaup were noted at several locations, and 2 Surf Scoters near Bodkin I. 6 Jul (J. Maloney, SA) rounded out the list. RAPTORS THROUGH SHOREBIRDS Noteworthy Mississippi Kites — ^which are rare but regular Regionwide now in spring and sum- mer— ^were one first-summer bird at Great Falls, Fairfax, VA 3 Jun (R. Wall et al.), one at Cornfield Harbor, Saint Mary’s 3 Jun (PC, A. Bishop), a first-summer bird over Dillwyn, VA, for a probable Buckingham first 3 Jun (D. Spears), one over Collingwood, Fairfax 15 Jul (B. Hutchinson), and one at Kibler Rd. and Maryland Rte. 314 on 28 Jul (a Caroline first; fide PS). Although the last report received of the pair of Mississippi Kites at Huntley Meadows County Park, Fairfax, VA was on 3 Jun (G. Weinberger), they may very well have been pres- ent through the summer. A very few Sharp- shinned Hawks turn up annually in mid-sum- mer; singles in Jeffersonton 27 Jun (TMD) over 1-295 and Suitland Parkway, Prince George’s 30 Jul (MB) were both noteworthy. The Sharpie nest in Soldier’s Delight, Baltimore still had a female sitting on it 20 Jun (S. Droege). Extremely unusual for the Piedmont, with only three Regional records and just one prior for the Virginia Piedmont, a Black Rail heard 28 Jul+ (p. a. DFA, V. o.) at the DuUes Greenways Wetlands Mitigation Project, Fairfax, VA was later documented on audiotape (TMD). A Sora was unusual at a tiny city park pond in Patterson Park, Baltimore City late May-12 Jun+ (KEC), though breeding was never confirmed. Rare for Harford were at least 2 Common Moorhens in a beaver pond at the US Rte. 40 and Maryland Rte. 24 intersection 2 Jun (E. Blom). Unfortunately, the species may have disappeared now from Deal Island W.M.A., Somerset, a former strong- hold. The American Coot at Dyke Marsh 24 Jun (SS) & 22 Jul (KG) was probably a late lingerer, as breeding is extremely unusual in the Region. A flyby Piping Plover at North Beach 14 Jul (JLS) was a vagrant in the Maryland section of the Bay, where it has been seen about 10 times but not for about a decade. Piping Plovers, which benefited from several storm washovers in recent years, reportedly had about 55 pairs breeding on the Maryland section of Assateague 1. and another 25 on the Virginia section of the island (DBr, fide HTA). Wilson’s Plovers contin- ue to struggle, with their only remaining Regional toehold being on three Virginia barrier islands (Assawoman, Metompkin, and Cedar), where 47 ads. were counted in mid-Jun (BW et al.). Black-necked Stilts again were found breed- ing at EOiott I., but they may have disappeared from Deal I., as for the first time in more than a decade they were not reported, despite several summer visits by birders. Breeding continues at Craney, where one chick was seen with 9 ads. 25 Jul (DLH, AW, TG) and may continue on the Chine, causeway, Accomack, VA, where they were noted 28 Jul (LL). One at Back Bay N.W.R. 8 Jun (K. Kearney) was in a location knovra for small numbers in the 1990s when water levels were appropriate. American Avocet numbers were well above average. An unprecedented flock of avocets at Hart built from 22 birds on 30 Jun (DBy) to 24 on 28 Jul (JLS, SR et al.). Craney had good numbers as well, with 26 counted there 25 Jul (DLH, AW, TG), but these are stUl far below historical totals here. One avocet at Hart 9 Jun (EJS) and a Talbot first at Poplar I. 6 Jun (p.a. EJS) may have been early indicators of the movement. Caroline’s 2nd American Avocet was found at Kibler Rd. 23-24 Jul (B. Byrnes, MH, vt. JLS, m. ob.). What was likely the same bird appeared 25 Jul (E. Gofreed, G. Brewer) at Ridgely W.T.P., which it flew in to inspect and then continued on. A Ruff at BGbler Rd. 23-24 Jul (MH, m. ob.) constituted a Caroline 4th. Three southbound Red Knots at Fox 1. 12 Jul (HTA) were notewor- thy for the Bay. Still very unusual for D.C. (despite three reports this year), a Willet at Haines Pt. 30 Jul (PP) was presumably inorna- tus, though was not confirmed as such. Other identified Western Willets included one at North Beach 25 Jul (JLS, TH) and one at Hart 28 Jul (JLS et al.). Another Willet was at Hunting Cr. 1-4 Jul (P. Sullivan, SS). Unusual in n. Virginia, a Stilt Sandpiper was at Hunting Cr. 21 Jul (SS). Seven Hudsonian Godwits were at Craney 25- 26 Jul (DLH, AW, TG), joined by a Marbled Godwit on the latter date (BA, RK). Long-billed Dowitchers in Jul included single ads. at Craney 23 Jul (D. Clark) and a calling one, rare for Caroline, at Kibler Rd. 27 Jul (JLS, MH). Hart usually monopolizes many of the other shorebird highlights, with a Curlew Sandpiper among 2075 Semipalmated Sandpipers 2 Jun (EJS) providing the 5th report from this location and the 5th for the state. Also there 2 Jun were a StOt Sandpiper and 2 Whimbrel (EJS). Other noteworthy counts of the weekly visits included 1020 Lesser Yellowlegs 14 Jul (DBy, SR et al.), 355 Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 421 Western Sandpipers and one juv. Wilson’s Phalarope 21 Jul (JLS, SR et al.), and 1870 Semipalmated, 277 Western, and 98 Stilt Sandpipers 28 Jul (DBy, JLS et al.). GULLS THROUGH WARBLERS Rare in summer, a Bonaparte’s Gull was seen on the Potomac in D.C. 31 Jul (GMJ). The Kelp Gull apparently continued through the season around Sandgates, Saint Mary’s, though it was reported only 1 1 Jun and 16 Jul (JK). The Poplar I. Dredge Spoil Containment Facility, in Talbot, MD has been successful at attracting terns. This year, special island- and shell-mound habitats that were designed to support tern colonies attracted a colony of 400-1- Common Tern and two smaller colonies of Least Terns (DBr). The Common Tern colony may in part be the dis- placed birds from Bodkin L, where large gulls have been increasing in number, which presum- ably has been much of the reason for the down- turn in Sterna numbers there. The tern colony on Skimmer I., Worcester has suffered since large gulls recently colonized the island. This year, 570 Royal Tern eggs were counted there 6 Jun (JSW fide IdTA). Common Terns are uncommon at best in the D.C. area and occur primarily in Sep and Oct; they are essentially unknown in Jun and Jul. Thus, one first-summer Common Tern at Hunting Cr. 1 Jul (KG) and 4 there 4 Jul (SS) bear mention and may be a product of recent increases in nesting in the Upper Bay on Poplar and Bodkin Is. A post-breeding congregation of 165 Least Terns at Hart was an excellent number 28 Jul (DBy, JLS et al.). Caspian Terns are rare through most of the Region in Jun and early Jul, but Hart has long hosted impressive summer concentrations, e.g. 172 on 2 Jun, 151 on 9 Jun, 181 on 7 Jul, and 214 on 21 Jul (EJS). The closest other counts were 12 on 3 Jun (BC) and 1 1 on 28 Jul (BC) at the Potomac R. below D.C. The cur- rent n. limit for Black Skimmer in the Bay is South Marsh L, Somerset, where 23 pairs are breeding among a large colony of Common and Forster’s Terns (DBr, fide HTA). A larger Black Skimmer colony on Fox I., Accomack, VA, con- tained at least 85 ads. 12 Jul (HTA), while at the Royal Tern colony there 868 chicks were banded on that date ( JSW, DBr, HTA et al.), down slight- ly from last year. Three Black Terns were at Dyke Marsh 31 Jul (KG), one was at North Beach 14 Jul (JLS, EB), and a late one, not surprisingly a first-summer, was at Poplar I. 6 Jun (EJS). This was noted as another poor year for cuck- oos (HTA, V. o.). The Scissor-tailed Flycatcher from May continued through 1 Jul (KH) at the same Culpeper, VA farm field where the pair nested last year — ^alas, while the single male built a nest, there was no sign of a mate this year. Another Scissor-tailed Flycatcher was seen one mi w. of Ruthsburg, Cambpell, VA 19 Jul (T. Dalmas). A Cave Swallow at Cape Charles 5 Jun (ESB) followed on the heels of a similar sighting there last May and is the 5th documented report for Virginia. Although fewer reports were received than last year. Loggerhead Shrike nest- ing activity apparently continued in the Virginia Piedmont in some of the same areas reported last summer. OccasionaUy found straying away from mountain breeding grounds into the Region, a Blue-headed Vireo at Soldier’s Delight, Baltimore 24 Jun (vt. RFR) and 4 Jul (JLS, EB) was a surprise. Another singing at G. Richard Thompson W.M.A., Fauquier, VA may be an indication of a wider movement away from breeding areas in the Appalachians to the west. Stasz believed the Baltimore bird to be alticola, based on the burry song. A Red-breasted Nuthatch lingered into Jun (B. Abrams) at a McLean, VA feeding station, surprising given the non-invasion year. A Marsh Wren singing at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens during 25 Jun-27 Jul (MB et al.) may have been the only summer- ing bird, and only potential breeder, in the District of Columbia. WARBLERS THROUGH SPARROWS A singing Tennessee Warbler at Schoolhouse Pond was notably late 6 Jun (JLS). Hooded Warbler is not detected particularly often in spring migration, so a late one in an urban gar- den in Cape Charles 5 Jun (ESB, SWH) was unusual. Migrant Prothonotary Warblers are also detected comparatively infrequently, and one 28 Jul (HTA, CE) in Elliott Village, Elliott I., evidences how early this species is migrating. A singing male Prothonotary Warbler was rare at Woodstock, Howard 23 Jun (J. & T.D. Coskren), while a singing male Blackpoll Warbler at Little Hunting Cr., Fairfax, VA 7 Jul (S. Williams) was extremely unseasonal but not without precedent in the Region; such birds are presumed to be extremely late northbound migrants. The Clay-colored Sparrow at Kinder Farm Park, Anne Arundel continued through 27 Jul (D. Farner, ph.R. Wilson, au. Paul McGowan, v. o.). There was no suggestion of breeding, though the unprecedented summering event certainly raises the possibility, which is unknown in the Region but has occurred as near as Pennsylvania and is now extensive in upstate New York. A Lark Sparrow seen well near the Appomattox Court House National Historical Park 2 Jun (M. Stinson) was unusual and late for a spring bird, and though it has not happened in the Region since summer 1925, extralimital breeding could occur again at some point. A singing Vesper Sparrow near Snow Hill 16 Jun (SHD) is the first suggestion of nesting in Worcester, though there is ample appropriate habitat and they have bred as near as Wicomico and Accomack, VA. A note- worthy concentration of Grasshopper Sparrows was discovered at Western Regional Park, Howard, where on 9 Jun 50-75 ads. were esti- mated in a field of grass and red clover (JS, B. Solem, N. Magnusson). On 4 Jul, at least 40 juvs. were counted (BO). At Chino Farms, the fallow fields are a Grasshopper Sparrow haven like no other, with 160+ singing males in 200 acres of habitat. Some 35 of those birds were returnees from the previous year, and 10 returned from two years prior. An agitated pair of Savannah Sparrows during Jun (TMD, JC) suggested nest- ing near Lakota, Fauquier, VA, which was con- firmed when a dead fledgling was found and sal- vaged (*USNM). Several others heard singing nearby 8 Jun (J. & T. Dalmas) indicate that this species may be a local, low-density breeder here. Although Savannah Sparrow is not an uncom- mon breeder in the Maryland Piedmont, the Virginia Piedmont apparently had only one prior breeding confirmation, in Greene. A singing male Rose-breasted Grosbeak at Blackwater N.W.R. 12 Jun (D. Homan) was unusual for the Coastal Plain in mid-Jun and especially so for the Eastern Shore — ^a very late migrant? Another at Violette’s Lock, Montgomery was bit late itself 2-3 Jun (D. Simonson). Although this was no great year for Dickcissels, observers have gotten more skilled at finding the small number that visit our Region annually. In Virginia’s counties of Fauquier and Culpeper, the epicenter of last year’s invasion, active observers turned up just a few, which sug- gests that last year indeed had an exceptional incursion. In Maryland, there were reports from Frederick, Queen Anne’s, Caroline, Dorchester, and even s. Anne Arundel 17 Jul (JLS), but the most interesting story unfolded at Chino Earms, where University of Maryland students have been studying grassland birds. Dickcissel is an erratic and enigmatic breeder in the Region, so it was fascinating to have an account from Hafrier of one nesting event this year. This year a male, banded last year as an ad. at the same location, appeared 30 Jun and sang consistently through 20 Aug, alternating its time between a favorite field and an alternate field up to one mi away. A second-year male made a brief one-day appear- ance 24 Jul, perhaps wandering in search of a suitable territory. A female, banded this year, appeared 22 Jul, paired with the singing male, and remained through 22 Aug, with nest-build- ing observed 29 Jul, 4 chicks fledged 16 Aug, 2 of which were seen thereafter and one of which was banded. It will be fascinating to see if these birds show continued site fidelity next year. Bobolinks summered again at Ebenezer Church Rd., in w. Loudoun, where up to 3 males sang through Jun (JC). 422 North American Birds Middle Atlantic Coast — Southern Atlantic Coast Observers (area compilers in boldface): Bob Ake, Henry T. Armistead, Stan Arnold, Debbie Bennett {Caroline, RO. Box 404, Denton, MD 21625), Michael Bowen, Ed Boyd, Dave Brinker (DBr), Edward S. Brinkley, Danny Bystrak (DBy), Roger Clapp, Joe Coleman, Barry Cooper, Patty Craig {Saint Mary’s, RO. Box 84, Lexington Park, MD 20653), Todd M. Day, Samuel H. Dyke, Carol Erwin, Tom Gwynn, Matt Hafner, Steve Hairfield, Paula Sullivan (Voice of the Naturalist), John Hubbell, David L. Hughes, Randy Korotev, Larry Lynch (VA-BIRD internet group), Gail MacKiernan, Dave Mozurkewich, Bonnie Ott, Helen A. Patton {Montgomery, 429 Hamilton Ave., Silver Spring, MD 20901 ), Paul Pisano, Elizabeth Pitney {Wicomico, 7218 Walston Switch Rd., Parsonsburg, MD 21849), Sue Ricciardi, Robert F. Ringler, Norm Saunders (MDOsprey internet group), Eugene J. Scarpulla, Fred Shaffer, Jo Solem {Howard, 10617 Graeloch Rd., Laurel, MD 20723), James L. Stasz, Sherman Suter, John S. Weske, Audrey Whitlock, Bill Williams, Les Willis (Virginia Birdline). A Southern Atlantic Coast locations in the North Atlantic? As usual, sever- al seabirds were found on beaches this summer. Several Greater Shearwaters were found dead or dying in the C. Lookout, NC area in late Jun (JF, v. o.), and an Audubon’s Shearwater was picked up at Blackboard I. N.W.R., GA 17 Jul (MR). Most unusual inland was the flock of 6 American White Pelicans in flight over the Etowah R., Bartow, GA 9 Jun (JS, BD). Where were these birds headed? The best count of this species was an impressive 136 at the S.S.S. 30 Jul (SC). Another rare inland pelican was the imm. Brown at Lake Park, Lowndes, GA 3 Jun (KA). Magnificent Frigatebirds graced all three states, with singles at Folly Beach, SC 1 Jun (TN), C. Lookout, NC 2 Jun (JK et al., fide JF), and Gould’s Inlet, GA 6 Jun {fide LT). As is usual with this species, all individuals were present briefly and gone the next day. Long-legged waders were present at inland sites as usual. The more interesting reports included an unexplainable American Bittern near Laurinburg, NC 22-26 Jul (BG), an ad. Little Blue Heron in Greene, GA 24 Jun (PS), and 14 Cattle Egrets at Rome, GA 7 Jun (MD). Reddish Egrets were reported less frequently this year, with only singles from North and South Carolina, and the best Georgia counts involving just 3 individuals. Wood Storks apparently did well in the Region this summer. The rookery (now two years running) at the Amphitheater Pond area of Jekyll L, GA included at least 62 nests during Jun (LT). Also, a wandering stork was unusual inland near Douglas, Coffee, GA 7 Jul (BZ). WATERFOWL THROUGH FALCONS A Black-bellied VThistling-Duck was a surprise at the S.S.S. 19 Jul (SC). This individual was possi- bly from the nearby ACE Basin flock, although reports of these birds have been lacking of late. It would be nice to know the origin of these and other Black-bellieds in our Region. Several note- worthy summering ducks included an American Wigeon at Emory Univ., Atlanta, GA 14-31 Jul-f (JB et al.), a Blue-winged Teal in Bartow, GA 9 NORTH CAROLINA SOUTH CAROLINA Wilmington Columbia* ,^lee NWR nX4- Moullrie GEORGIA ■Aiken {^Hilton Head L Ricky Davis 608 Smallwood Drive Rocky Mount, North Carolina 27804 (RJDNC@aol.com) The weather this summer included relatively average temperatures with no prolonged hot spells. Precipitation was below average in most places, at least until late July. This meant a gen- erally successful season for the breeding birds in the Region. Many observers reported that num- bers of young and family groups seen were “up.” Coinciding with this nesting success, the num- ber of real rarities was down. Is there any corre- lation between mild breeding season weather and fewer wandering, nonbreeding birds? Abbreviations: C. Hatt. (Cape Hatteras, NC); E.L.H. (E. L. Huie Land Application Facility, Clayton, GA); S.S.S. (Savannah Spoil Site, Jasper, SC). LOONS TO WOOD STORK Summer reports of loons are not too unusual, but a Common Loon in full alternate plumage at North R., Carteret, NC 8 Jul (R8cSB) was a sur- prise, as most summer loons are not in definitive alternate plumage. Pelagic trips off North Carolina once again found rare Pterodromas. On a trip out of Oregon Inlet 10 Jun, one Bermuda Petrel and one Fea’s Petrel were observed (PG et al.). The more often-recorded Herald Petrel was located twice, with singles off Hatteras 8 & 28 Jul (BP et al.). Numbers of Black-capped Petrels, shearwaters, and storm-petrels were uneventful, with one exception. For some reason, Manx Shearwaters were present off Hatteras over most of the summer. One was found 7 Jul, an amazing count of 7-8 was made 8 Jul, and one was seen as late as 29 Jul (BP et al.). One won- ders if the species had trouble at its breeding ATLANTIC OCEAN \pieiviii -rr,® liCumbatimIL Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 423 This Manx Shearwater was one of several spotted off Hatteras Island, North Carolina this summer; it is normally quite rare in summer in the Gulf Stream. Photograph by James Cameron. Jun (}S, BD), 2 Ring-necked Ducks at E.L.H. all season (no breeding reported; CL et al), and a Red-breasted Merganser on the Shallotte R., Brunswick, NC 16 Jun (BPe). Kites continue to be reported frequently across the Region. Very unusual for mid-sum- mer were the 2—3 Swallow-tailed Kites in the Buxton, NC area 2—3 Jul (ML). The best count of Mississippi Kites was of 40 seen in one flock in the Ventosa area of Halifax, NC 9 Jun (RD). The few known North Carolina breeding loca- tions were successful, according to those who monitored them. Northern Harriers were pres- ent at Alligator R. N.W.R., NC with 2-3 being found as late as 12 Jul (JL). Breeding most like- ly occurred, although no evidence was found. Noteworthy summer sightings of Sharp- shinned Hawks included singles in Jasper, SC 1 1 fun (WC) and at E.L.H. 28 Jul (CL). Also local- ly unusual in summer near the coast was a Broad-winged Hawk at Conway, SC 21 Jul (GP). Breeding season reports of American Kestrel are always worth noting. One was in Bartow, GA 9 Jun (JS, BD), and 2 ads. and one imm. were at the Cherry Hospital area of Wayne, NC 1 Jul (RD). PLOVERS THROUGH TERNS The fall migration of shorebirds started as usual in Jul. Some of the more interesting inland reports included 2 Black-bellied Plovers near Rome, GA 28 Jul (JS, BD), a Sanderling at Jordan Lake, NC 21 Jul (JP), 29 Stilt Sandpipers at E.L.H. 25 Jul (CL), and 4 Short-billed Dowitchers at E.L.H. 28 Jul (CL). The Upland Sandpiper migration produced just a few: 2 at the New Hanover County Airport, NC 28 Jul (SCo) and one at the Bucksport Sod Farm, SC 29 Jul (ST). A Whimbrel at Jekyll L, GA 8 Jul (LT) was early for that s. location. There was another Ruff found at the S.S.S. 10 Jul (PS). This site has become one of the more depend- able for finding Ruffs. Wilson’s Phalarope reports included one at Pea 1. N.W.R., NC 21 Jul (R&PT) and a peak of 13 at the usual S.S.S. location 30 Jul (SC). Parasitic Jaegers are normally hard to come by in summer; thus of note were singles at C. Hatt. 22 Jun (SCa) and off Hatteras 29 Jul (BP et al). Very rare and unprecedented for mid- summer was a Long-tailed Jaeger off Hatteras 7 Jul (BP et al.). Less unusual were migrant Long- taileds off Hatteras later in the month, 28 & 29 Jul (BP et al.). A gull photographed on the beach at the Cedar L, NC Ferry Terminal 8 Jul (R&SB) looked like an imm. Iceland at first, but was later thought to be some kind of hybrid due to several structural characters. Whatever it was, it was a most unusual sighting for mid- summer. Georgia had several summer Lesser Black-backed Gulls again, with the best count being 2 at St. Simons 1. 6 Jul (GK, DD). Noteworthy inland terns included a Caspian at L. Wheeler, Wake, NC 9 Jun (SS) and a Least at E.L.H. 16 Jun (JS et al.). The latter, very rare that far inland, represented about the 3rd sight- ing for that location. Sooty Terns are found onshore almost annually. This year’s reports included one in the lower Cape Fear R., NC in Jun {fide JO), one on New Dump L, Core Sound, NC 24 Jun (MB et al.), and one found dead at St. Simons L, GA 1 Jul (DD). And final- ly, a count of 250 Black Terns at Wolf L, GA 14 Jun (BW) was excellent for the summer. DOVES THROUGH WAXWING The Beaufort, NC area still hosted White- winged Doves, with a pair present all season (SB, JF et al.). There have been White-wingeds here since about 1998. The only other report of this species was of one at a feeder in Douglas, GA 5 Jul (AB). Unprecedented in the Region, Short-eared Owls remained at Alligator R. N.W.R., NC throughout the summer, with at least 4 being seen several times (fide JL, v. o.) Although no definite breeding evidence was noted, nesting was certainly possible. The hum- mingbird migration started in Jul as usual, and at least one Selasphorus was noted, an imm. male at Simpsonville, SC 31 Jul (PW). Providing a very rare summer report, an Olive-sided Flycatcher was observed at Pine Log W.M.A, Bartow, GA 29 Jul (GS), most likely a very early migrant. Several Willow Flycatchers were out of place with one in Forsyth, GA 15 Jun (JFl) and one in Cabarrus, NC 19 Jun (DS). The Region’s two known Scissor-tailed Flycatcher nest sites were successful again this year: the Monroe, NC birds raised 4 young (AO), and the McDonough, GA pair raised 3 in the first and one in the 2nd nesting (GM, v. o.). Of interest, an additional ad. male showed up at the Monroe site 5-9 Jul (AO)! North Carolina’s 5th Black-whiskered Vireo was at Baldhead L 6-22 Jun (GMo, SCo, v. o.). There may have been 2 birds, as several observers heard 2 different birds singing at the same time. One of the birds was seen in compa- ny with a Red-eyed Vireo most of the time. The Anilorac Farm, Orange, NC Warbling Vireos successfully raised young as of 3 Jun (STh) for the 2nd year in a row. House Wrens were found far to the e. on the Outer Banks this summer, with one at Southern Shores, NC 9 Jun (JL) and a pair on Collington L, NC in Jun (fide JL). A Gray-cheeked Thrush singing on Roanoke L, NC 19 Jun ( JL) was very late, even for this notoriously late migrant. Rare summer reports away from the usual breeding range of American Robin included one at Blackbeard N.W.R., GA 5 Jun (PS) and one at Bainbridge, GA 21-31 Jul (MBe). Cedar Waxwings often linger to the e. of the normal breeding range. This season’s reports included 5-6 in mainland Dare, NC 18 Jun and 3 in Manteo, NC 13 Jul (JL). WARBLERS THROUGH FINCHES Reports concerning warblers were mostly about late-spring or early-fall migrants. One or 2 Black-throated Blue Warblers were late at the Savannah River Site, SC in early Jun {fide PC). Early migrants included a Black-and-white Warbler at Hofwyl Plantation, Darien, GA 6 Jul (DD) and a Northern Waterthrush at the S.S.S. 10 Jul (PS). The known breeding range of 424 North American Birds Southern Atlantic Coast Black-throated Green Warbler was extended southward in Georgia when up to 8 singing males and recently fledged juvs. were found at Pine Log W.M.A. 21 }un (GB). There were also some lingering sparrows this summer, with a Savannah Sparrow being well described at the Aiken, SC Airport 28 Jun (/ide AW) and a White- throated Sparrow at a feeder in Southern Shores, NC 17 Jun (fide JL). Breeding Dickcissels are always noteworthy in the Region. The pair from the spring season at Anilorac Farm, Orange, NC had eggs by 24 Jun and later fledged 3 young (KF, STh). Other Dickcissels this summer included 2 singing males near Cartersville, Bartow, GA 9 Jun (JS, BD) and one to 2 near Pettigrew St. Pk., NC 17 Jun (HL et al.). Very rare in mid-summer, a Yellow-headed Blackbird was at a feeder on St. Simons L, GA 8-9 Jul (EY). Another early migrant, especially that far s., was the Baltimore Oriole at Bear L, SC 14 Jul (DB). Red Crossbills are notoriously erratic in their wanderings and nestings. This summer, nesting was confirmed at Pine Log W.M.A., GA when 2 ads. with one juv. were seen 20 Jun (GB). There were also at least 5 others noted in the immedi- ate area, so additional nesting could have taken place. And finally, a Pine Siskin at a feeder in Hopkins, Richland, SC 7 Jun (fide TK) was quite late, especially for that area of the state. Contributors: Kristi Avera, Donna Bailey, Giff Beaton, Michael Bell (MBe), Annette Bittaker, Rich & Susan Boyd (R&SB), Micou Brown, Jerry Brunner, Steve Calver, Susan Campbell (SCa), Paul Champlin, Will Cook, Sam Cooper (SCo), Dave Davis, Ricky Davis, Marion Dobbs, Bruce Dralle, Kent Fiala, Jim Flynn (JFl), John Fussell, Barbara Gearhart, Paul Guris, Tim Kalbach, Gene Keferl, Jeannie Kraus, Carol Lambert, Harry LeGrand, Jeff Lewis, Marcia Lyons, Greg Massey (GMa), Gordon McWilliams, Tom Nicols, Jim O’Donnell, Anne Olsen, Brian Patteson, Bob Perkins (BPe), Gary Phillips, Jeff Pippen, Matt Ryan, Georgann Schmalz, Jeff Sewell, Steve Shultz, Danny Swicegood, Paul Sykes, Shelley Theye (STh), Stephen Thomas, Lydia Thompson, Russ & Patricia Tyndall (R8cPT), Anne Waters, Brad Winn, Pete Worthington, Elaine Young, Bob Zaremba. BIRD SLIDES Nearly 6,000 species worldwide Over 90,000 slides available SLIDE SETS Familiar Birds, Eastern Warblers, Raptors, Owls Endangered Species Bird Behavior, Bird Families of the World, Neotropical Migrants & more. INDIVIDUAL SLIDES Request our free North American catalog or send a custom list indicating age, sex, behavior, or color morph. Catalog slides $3.00 Custom slides $5.00 Minimum ordger $15.00 Allow 4 weeks for delivery. These slides are for non-profit lectures only and may not be duplicated. For publication or other reproduction rights, please call us. VIREO (Visual Resources for Ornithology) The Academy of Natural Sciences 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway Philadelphia, PA 19103 (215) 299-1069 www.acnatsci.org/VIREO JosA ours RO. BOX 196 PLANETARIUM STATION NEW YORK, NY 10024 U.S.A. (212) 866-7923 “the greatest operator of ornithological tours on earth’’ Arthur Frommer Asia Specialists website: www.kingbirdtours.com email: kingbirdtours@earthlink.net 2001 BIRDING TOUR NORTH BURMA HIMALAYAN EXPEDITION 3 November- 2 December MALAYSIA Malaya, Borneo Mt. Kinabalu 4-26 May INDONESIA South Sumatra 28 June-21 July 2002 BIRDING TOURS VIETNAM North, South 3-27 January THAILAND North, Central, Peninsular 5-27 January PHILIPPINES Luzon, Mindanao, Cebu, Palawan, Bohol, Negros 1 February- 4 March NE INDIA Arunachal Pradesh, Assam 8-31 March BHUTAN 5-28 April WEST CHINA #1 Sichuan (Szechuan) Panda Reserves 3-27 May WEST CHINA #2 Sichuan (Szechuan) Panda Reserves 29 May -22 June Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 425 Florida David J. Powell 1407 Storington Avenue Brandon, Florida 3351 1 (vireo@vireos.com) Rainfall in June and July was heavy, partially replenishing the drought-diminished wet- lands. At the end of the season, the water lev- els were nearing the bottom of the normal range. Unfortunately, the dry weather pattern returned at the end of the season, leaving the Region in a continuing drought pattern. Abbreviations/definitions: C.R (county park); E.L.A.P.R (Environmental Lands Acquisition and Protection Program); E.N.R (Everglades National Park); L.A.R.A. (L. Apopka Restoration Area; Orange)-, P.P.M. {Polk phosphate mines); S.R.A. (state recre- ation area); W.C.A. (Water Conservation Area). LOONS THROUGH STORKS Single Common Loons, scarce in summer, were at St. Teresa Beach, Franklin 1 Jul (JM) and Tram Road S.T.R, Leon 16 Jul (GM), and one in definitive alternate plumage was at New Port Richey, Pasco 14 Jul (EW). A single Black- capped Petrel was found ca. 19 km off Key Biscayne, Miami-Dade 14 Jul (APr). Quite unusual was an out-of-season Northern Gannet found in a weakened condition inland at Grystal R., Citrus 13 Jun. More usual, but still a rarity, was another Northern Gannet at Cedar Key, Levy 18 Jul, found dead two days later (JP). An amazing number of American White Pelicans summered at L.A.R.A., with more than 1000 seen on seven dates, and a peak count of 2400 on 27 Jun (HR). Additional summering birds were at Bald Pt., Franklin 10-15 Jun (JD), Flamingo, E.N.R (BR), and the Miami-Dade landfill (LM). A statewide Brown Pelican survey conducted 13-19 Jun found 6432 nesting pairs in 39 colonies, well below the statewide average of 9317 since the survey began in 1968. The reduction in number of nesting pairs was most noticeable from the middle Gulf coast south- ward, with a reduction of 47%, and along the Atlantic coast, with a reduction of 41% as compared to the average from 1968-1990. The reason for this decline is not apparent (SN). Bird I., Franklin was host to 269 Brown Pelican nests (JGo). Two key Tampa Bay area colonies were affected by raccoons (RP, AP). Aerial wading bird surveys in the W.C.A.s indicated that abundances in 2001 were even higher than during 2000, which was 129% higher than in 1999, a year in which counts ran roughly three times higher than in 1998. This continues a trend of more birds coming into the Everglades in the early dry season than have in the past (DG). The estimated number of wading bird nests (excluding Cattle Egrets, which are not dependent on wetlands) in s. Florida was 38,647 — down about 5% from last year, which was one of the best years in a decade. Changing water patterns caused a sub- stantial switch of nest locations from last year. In 2000, 81% of the nests were in W.C.A. 3, while only 38% of the nests were there in 2001. On the reverse side was Loxahatchee N.W.R., which contained 51% of the nests this year as compared to only 7% of the nests last year. E.N.R and Florida Bay continue to contain only about 10% of the total wading bird nests, a trend that must be reversed as part of the ecosystem’s restoration. Unfortunately, while nest attempts are normally a good indicator of nest success, this year that was not true, partic- ularly for Great Egrets and especially for birds in W.C.A. 3. This seemed to be caused by con- tinued drought followed by a rainfall event in Apr that caused water levels to increase quick- ly (DG). Of the 4168 Great Egret nests that were started in W.C.A.s 2 and 3, over 80% were abandoned or failed (PE). An imm. Great White Heron at Newnans L., Alachua 18 Jul -l- (JN et al.) was unusually far n. Numbers of Snowy Egrets and Little Blue and Tricolored Herons were low again in the Tampa Bay area (RP, AP). Snowy Egret nest numbers in s. Florida were above last year’s very high numbers (DG). Reddish Egrets nest- ing in the Tampa Bay area were likely at a post- plume-hunting high, with 86 pairs at 10 colonies, half of those at the Alafia Bank Sanctuary (RP, AP). Twelve Reddish Egrets were at Hagan’s Cove, Taylor 30 Jul (JH, HA). A nesting colony of Black-crowned Night- Herons at Kissimmee Prairie Preserve S.R, Okeechobee contained 75 pairs (PS). Twenty- seven first-year Roseate Spoonbills were at Holiday, Pasco 6 Jul (KT). Roseate Spoonbills were at the same level as last year in the Tampa Bay area, with about 180 nests at 6 sites (RP, AP). White Ibis nest starts in s. Florida were down slightly from last year but still well above the 10-year average (DG). These numbers may be less reliable than usual, as many White Ibis initiated nesting, then abandoned their colonies in W.C.A. 3. Many of these birds apparently attempted to renest at Loxahatchee N.W.R. or at Pocket colony, likely resulting in fewer nesting pairs than nest attempts (PE). About 335 pairs of Glossy Ibis were found at four sites in the Tampa Bay area, about half the normal number, reflecting the dry foraging numbers (AP, RP). There was no statewide Wood Stork survey this year, but nest numbers were down in the Tampa Bay area (RP, AP) and 426 North American Birds Florida in s. Florida, though in s. Florida, the numbers were still well above the 10-year average (DG). As noted above, the large number of nest starts did not correlate with the number of young produced. This was true for Wood Storks as well, as they abandoned one large colony, and the Tamiami West colony had 1400 nests, but only 450 produced 900 young (PF). Four pairs with large downy young on Weeki Wachee R., Hernando 12 Jul were extraordinarily late (AP, RP). WHISTLING-DUCKS THROUGH PLOVERS Hundreds of Fulvous Whistling-Ducks along with a few Black-bellied Whistling-Ducks were found 8 Jul at Belle Glade Agricultural Station, Palm Beach (BH). Black-bellied Whistling- Ducks continue to spread in peninsular Florida, with three reports from Alachua (LB, JH) to the n. and one report from Ormond Beach, Volusia (CS) on the Atlantic coast. One- hundred-fifty Mottled Ducks were found 16 Jun at Newnans L., Alachua (RR), 61 on 4 Jul at L.A.R.A. (HR), and 27 were at L. Hamilton, Polk 18 Jul (BC, LC). Out-of-season ducks included a female Northern Pintail at W. Kendall, Miami-Dade 10-27 Jul (JB et al.), 4 Blue-winged Teal at PPM. 1 Jul (PT, CG), a single Blue-winged Teal on four dates at L.A.R.A. (HR), and 2 Ruddy Ducks at L.A.R.A. 21 Jul (DS, KR). The male Masked Duck with the all-blue bill, first found in the spring, was last seen 21 Jun at Pembroke Pines, Broward (AH, BH, RM). A White-tailed Kite in Palm Beach 14 Jul (DSa) was the only individual of this scarce species reported. A maximum of 40 Swallow- tailed Kites was at L.A.R.A. 25 Jul (HR). The Wildlife Commission’s statewide Bald Eagle survey found 1102 active territories (including a few w. of the Apalachicola R. in the Central Southern region), the highest total since the surveys began in 1973. An estimated 1311 young fledged (SN). Very rare in Florida in the summer, single Sharp-shinned Hawks were seen 22 8c 29 Jul at L.A.R.A. (HR). Single Short-tailed Hawks were seen 7 Jul (dark morph) and 28 Jul (light morph) at Weekiwachee Preserve, Hernando (CB, AH, BH), 10 Jul (dark morph) at Flamingo, E.N.P. (BR), and 29 Jul (light morph) at Saddle Creek C.P., Polk (DW, LS, LAI), with 2 (one light and one dark) at Tiger Creek, Polk 15 Jul (DGo, BCo). A Red-tailed Hawk summered s. of nor- mal at W. Kendall, Miami-Dade (JB). The excellent total of 22 Crested Caracaras was found 25 Jun in Okeechobee (LG, PC). Uncommon in Florida in summer, single American Kestrels were found 15 Jul at L.A.R.A. (HR) and 28 Jul at Sarasota (JD, KJ). A Black Rail was heard calling at the Belle Glade Marina, Palm Beach 14 Jul (PB, JV). A Purple Gallinule was present 1-12 Jun at Boca Ciega Park, Pinellas (IH), where the species is very rare. Sandhill Cranes struggle to breed in the increasingly urban areas around Tampa, so a pair with a nearly grown young 2 Jun at Brandon (BP, DP) was encouraging. The reintroduced Whooping Crane again came close to nesting successfully, with 15 pairs formed, 9 territories defended, and 2 nests with eggs (SN). Single inland Black-bellied Plovers were at P.P.M. 17 Jun (PT, CG) and L.A.R.A. 25 Jul (HR). An American Golden- Plover in alternate plumage was at Homestead, Miami-Dade 22—27 Jul (VM et al.). Three pairs of Wilson’s Plovers with chicks were at the Wolf Branch E.L.A.P.P. site, Hillsborough 24 Jun (DP, BP). Thirty Wilson’s Plovers were at Lighthouse Pond, St. Marks N.W.R. 8 Jul (TC). The first migrant Semipalmated Plovers were 2 at L.A.R.A. 27 Jul (HR). A single Piping Plover was found 21 Jul at Crandon Beach, Miami-Dade (HD), while 4 were found 27 Jul at Ft. De Soto C.P., Pinellas (KA). OYSTERCATCHER THROUGH TERNS A statewide American Oystercatcher survey was conducted by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for the first time this year; it found 391 known or probable pairs along with 42 single birds, including some pairs on rooftops, particularly in Pinellas (ND). Black-necked Stilts were at L.A.R.A. throughout, with a maximum of 35 there (HR) and up to 8 at Newnans L., Alachua 16- 26 Jun (RR, MM). Up to 4 American Avocets were at Newnans L. 3-21 Jun (MM, TW), with one at St. Marks N.W.R. 24 Jul (NW). A Greater Yellowlegs 17 Jun at L.A.R.A. (HR) could have been a summering bird, but 4 at St. Sebastian R. Buffer Preserve, Indian R. 26 Jun (DS) were certainly migrants, as were 17 Lesser Yellowlegs at the same time. A very unusual summer Solitary Sandpiper was at L.A.R.A. 18-22 Jun (HR). Four Willets 4 Jul at L.A.R.A. (HR) were likely southbound migrants, as was one at Newnans L., Alachua 8 Jul (TW). The first returning Spotted Sandpipers were 7 Jul at Green Key, Pasco (JMc) and 11 Jul at L.A.R.A. (HR). A Whimbrel was at Flamingo, E.N.P. 17 Jul (BR). Single Long-billed Curlews were at Cedar Key, Levy 26 Jul (GK) and Ft. De Soto C.P., Pinellas 27 Jul (KA). An Upland Sandpiper was found 27 Jul at L.A.R.A. (HR). An inland Sanderling was at Belle Glade Agricultural Station, Palm Beach 14 Jul (PB, JV). The first returning Semipalmated Sandpiper was one 4 Jul at L.A.R.A. (HR), while the initial southbound Least Sandpipers were 43 at P.P.M. 1 Jul (PT, CG). White- rumped Sandpipers are one of the latest spring migrants. This Jun’s records were of one on 7 Jun and 6 on 10 Jun at L.A.R.A. (HR), 2 at P.P.M. 17 Jun (PT, CG), and one ’at Viera, Brevard 21 Jun (AH, BH). The first Pectoral Sandpipers of the southbound migration were singles 15 Jul at L.A.R.A. (HR) and 19 Jul at Homestead, Miami-Dade (LM). The first migrant Stilt Sandpipers of the “autumn” were found 8 Jul at L.A.R.A. (HR). Thirty at Homestead 31 Jul -i- (RW, DL et al.) was the highest count of the season. A lone Buff- breasted Sandpiper was at L.A.R.A. 29 Jul (HR). Female Ruffs (Reeves) were at Viera, Brevard 10—11 Jun (DF, RW et al.) and at Homestead 26 Jul (JB et al.). A single Wilson’s Phalarope was at Homestead 22 Jul (VM), and 2 were at Big Talbot Island S.P., Duval 24 Jul (KA). Nesting Laughing Gull numbers in the Tampa Bay area remained stable, with about 19,300 pairs at four sites. The largest colony in the area and probably in the state was at Egmont Key N.W.R., with possibly 10,000 pairs (RP, AP). A first-year Great Black-backed Gull was near the Miami-Dade landfill 6 Jul (LM). Florida’s first Heermann’s Gull contin- ued at Ft. De Soto C.P. throughout the season (LA, m. ob.). Eight Gull-billed Terns were at P.P.M. 17 Jun (PT, CG), and one was at Homestead 23 Jul (JR, MW). Gull-billed Terns nested at two Hillsborough Bay locations, with two and seven pairs present, respectively (RP, AP), and at Bird L, Franklin, with 22 nests (JGo). Caspian Tern nest numbers continue to increase slowly in the Tampa Bay area, with 107 pairs at two locations (RP, AP). Bird Island, Franklin had 206 nests (JGo). Royal Tern nests were found in the highest numbers in the Tampa Bay area in decades, with 3766 nests at three sites. Almost all the Royal Terns have left Passage Key N.W.R., as that island has eroded, and moved to Egmont Key N.W.R., where 3540 pairs were counted (AP, RP). Rare inland, single Sandwich Terns at L.A.R.A. 1, 4, 8c 15 Jul (HR) were the 2nd for this location. An astonishing 715 pairs of Sandwich Terns were at Egmont Key N.W.R. (RP, AP). Common Terns are quite scarce in Florida in the summer, and this year was no exception, with one at Huguenot Park, Duval 24 Jul (KA), 2 at L. Osprey, Sarasota 30 Jun ( JD, JG), and up to 4 at L.A.R.A. (HR) the only reports. After last spring’s record number of Arctic Terns, to have one this summer was perhaps not so sur- prising— but to have one inland was unprece- dented. The Arctic Tern found by HR at L.A.R.A. 17 Jun was the first ever recorded Volume 55 (2001). Number 4 427 inland in Florida. Forster’s Terns were present throughout the summer at L.A.R.A., with a maximum of 40 on 13 Jun (HR). About 6 pairs of Least Terns nested (unsuccessfully) at Wolf Branch E.L.A.RR, Hillsborough, with a nest found and photographed 24 Jun (DR, BR). Black Terns were present at L.A.R.A. up to mid-Jul, with a maximum of 8 on 10 Jun (HR). A Black Noddy was seen 9 Jul at Dry Tortugas N.R. (EB). DOVES THROUGH GOLDFINCHES A roost of Eurasian Collared-Doves at Winter Haven, Polk had 303 birds on 13 Jul (TR). White-winged Doves were n. of normal at Ocala and Gainesville. Eight Monk Rarakeets through the season at Gainesville (DB) may represent a breeding population rather than the normal escapees in n. Florida. Mourning Doves are very common in Florida, but 2120 found 8 Jul at L.A.R.A. (HR) was an impressive count. The northernmost Mangrove Cuckoos reported were single birds at Cockroach Bay, Hillsborough 2 Jun (BR, DR) and Weedon I. Rreserve, Pinellas 18 Jun (RW). A Short-eared Owl flushed from the ground several times 27 Jun at Kissimmee Rrairie Rreserve S.R., Osceola (RMu) provided one of the few summer reports for Florida n. of the Keys. Another out- of-range report was of an Antillean Nighthawk heard calling 1 Jun in Brevard (BRa). An impressive 517 Chimney Swifts were noted going into a single chimney at New Rort Richey, Pasco 18 Jun (KT, LT). A Ruby-throat- ed Hummingbird along the Loop Road, Big Cypress National Rreserve, Monroe 1 Jul (RB, JV, BRu) was at the extreme s. end of the species’s breeding range in Florida. Belted Kingfishers are quite rare in summer in Florida s. of the far n., so a total of six reports, including one from Flamingo, E.N.R. (BR), was definitely more than average. A Tropical Kingbird was seen and heard calling 14 Jun at Ft. De Soto C.F., Pinellas (LA). Migrant Eastern Kingbirds were found 21 Jul at Weekiwachee Rreserve, Hernando (AH, BH) and 28 Jul at Green Key, Pasco (KT). Fifteen Gray Kingbirds at Green Key 29 Jul (KT) was a good count. An excellent congregation of 3000 Rurple Martins was at Dadeland, Miami-Dade 12 Jul (JR). A flock of 342 Rough-winged Swallows was at R.R.M. 1 Jul (FT, CG). Bank Swallows were present throughout the season at L.A.R.A. (HR). Migrant Bank Swallows were detected 12 Jul at St. Marks N.W.R. (TC), 13 Jul at Bald Rt., Franklin (CT), 14 Jul at Rahokee, Palm Beach (DS), 22 Jul at Flayalinda Beach, Brevard (DS), and 24 Jul at W. Kendall, Miami-Dade (JB). Southbound Cliff Swallows were at St. Marks N.W.R. 8 Jul (JD), at L.A.R.A. 8, 22, 8c 29 Jul (HR), and at Brown’s Farm Road, Palm Beach 14 Jul (RB, JV). Fifty- four Barn Swallow nests were found at L.A.R.A. over the season (HR). Thirty Barn Swallows at Flamingo, E.N.R. 8 Jul (BR) and 20 at Homestead 8 Jul (JB) were likely south- bound migrants. Also likely a migrant was a Blue-gray Gnatcatcher at Largo, Pinellas 12 Jul (JFi). American Robins are uncommon nesters in Florida, so one feeding a fledgling at Tallahassee 22 Jun (GM) was noteworthy. A Bahama Mockingbird was found 9 Jul at Dry Tortugas N.R. (EB). A Gray Catbird was at L.A.R.A. 20 Jun (HR), suggesting that it might be a summering bird. Common Mynas nested successfully for the first time at Key West, with a pair and 5 juvs. 31 Jul (JO). Migrant Yellow Warblers were at L.A.R.A. 11 Jul (HR), Magnolia Fark, Orange 21 Jul (DS, KR), Green Key, Pasco 24 Jul (KT), and Dry Tortugas N.R. 26 Jul (NR). Late Black-throated Blue Warblers were found singing at Key West 10 Jun (JO) and A.D. Barnes Rark, Miami-Dade 20-24 Jun (JR). Migrant Rrairie Warblers were found 5 Jul in Pasco (BR), 11 Jul at L.A.R.A. (HR), 12 Jul at Largo, Pinellas (JFi), and 19 Jul at A.D. Barnes Fark, Miami-Dade (JR). A Ralm Warbler 24 Jul at Green Key, Pasco (KT) was very early. Returning Black-and-white Warblers were found 7 Jul at O’Leno S.F., Alachua (JH), 15 Jul at Big Fine Key (CBo), and 27 Jul at Key West (JO). A late American Redstart was at West Lake Nature Center, Broward 4 Jun (BB), while the first returning individual was found 22 Jul at L.A.R.A. (HR). A Frothonotary Warbler 27 Jul at Green Key, Pasco (KT) was the first of the fall. The first southbound Louisiana Waterthrush was detected 5 Jul at Boca Ciega Rark (JFi). A Kentucky Warbler was at Bonner Fark, Largo, Pinellas 24-28 Jul (IH, JFi). A Common Yellowthroat at Big Fine Key 11 Jul (CBo) was likely a migrant, as they are not known to breed in the Keys. The first migrant Hooded Warbler was found 28 Jul at John Chestnut, Jr. C.F., Pinellas (RS). A Yellow-breasted Chat was singing at Crystal R. State Buffer Rreserve, Citrus 4 ]u\ (BH, AH). Bachman’s Sparrows are known to breed in pine flatwoods throughout their range, but in Florida, they are also found in the same dry prairie habitat as the Florida subspecies of Grasshopper Sparrow. Surveys at Kissimmee Rrairie Rreserve S.F., Okeechobee found over 150 individuals (RMu). These same surveys found an excellent 90 singing male Florida Grasshopper Sparrows, even though they cov- ered only about 9% of the available habitat (RMu). A late Nelson’s Sharp-tailed Sparrow was found 11 Jun at Fablo Creek, Duval (SJ, KN). According to Jon Greenlaw (in litt.). Nelson’s arrive back at their n. breeding areas “notoriously” late, because vegetation in their marshes tends to foliate later than the vegeta- tion in marshes that support breeding Saltmarsh Sharp-tailed Sparrows, for instance. Thirteen Seaside Sparrows were along a 1.6- km stretch of Bottoms Rd. at St. Marks N.W.R. 8 Jun (JD). A female-plumaged Indigo Bunting at Flamingo, E.N.R. 19 Jun (BR) was s. of normal. A male Dickcissel 29 Jul at Holey Land W.M.A., Palm Beach (DL et al.) was heard to make some gutteral clicks while light- ly pumping its tail, behavior that suggests a breeding bird (GB). Three male Shiny Cowbirds were at Ft. De Soto C.R., Pinellas 14 Jun (LA); up to 2 females and 6 males sum- mered at Key West (JO). A Bronzed Cowbird on 1 1 Jul at Frinceton, Miami-Dade (LM) was only the 2nd ever found in the summer. Two male and 2 female Brown-headed Cowbirds were the first to summer at Key West (JO). Unusual in the summer were single male American Goldfinches at Tallahassee 25 Jun (BS) and N. St. Augustine, St. Johns 26 Jun (JHo). Cited contributors (area contributors in boldface): Howard Adams, Larry Albright (LAl), Ken Allen, Bruce Anderson, Lyn Atherton, Gian Basili, David Beatty, Raul Bithorn, Clay Black, Lynn Bliss, Bill Boeringer, Chris Borg (CBo), Edward Borowik, John H. Boyd III, Buck Cooper, Linda Cooper, Bill Cowart (BCo), Tom Curtis, Nancy Douglass, Jack Dozier, Henrik Druid, Jeanne Dubi, Charlie Ewell, Jon Fagans, Judy Fisher (JFi), Don Feuss, Feter Frederick, Jill Gaetzi, Dale Gawlik, Chuck Geanangel, David Goodwin (DGo), Jeff Gore (JGo), Laurie Gray, Raul Gray, Al Hansen, Bev Hansen, Irene Hernandez, John Hintermister, Jacqueline Holstein (JHo), Brian Hope, Karen Jensen, Sally Jue, Grace Kiltie, David LaFuma, Russell MacGregor, Mike Manetz, Larry Manfredi, Vince McGrath, Jim McKay (JMc), Gail Menk, Rosi Mulholland (RMu), John Murphy, Steve Nesbitt, Katy NeSmith, Joe Ondrejko, Tom Ralmer, Ann Raul, Rich Raul, Bob Raxson (BRa), Nathan Rieplow, David Powell, Peggy Powell, Bill Pranty, Andy Prather (APr), Bruce Purdy (BRu), Kurt Radamaker, Bryant Roberts, Harry Robinson, Jill Rosenfield, Rex Rowan, David Simpson, Lilian Saul, Brenda Scott, Parks Small, Ray Smart, Catherine Stoccardo, Pete Timmer, Ken Tracey, Linda Tracey, Juan Villamil, Doug Wassmer, Ray Webb, Tom Weber, Mickey Wlreeler, Nicholas Wienders, Elizabeth Wood. f) 428 North American Birds Ontario Theo Hofmann 199 Arnold Avenue Thornhill, Ontario L4J 1 Cl (theo@hera.med.utoronto.ca) Ontario birders were heavily involved in col- lecting data for the second Ontario Breeding Bird Atlas. It was expected therefore that a larger number of interesting sightings would be available for this report. Unfortunately, the deadline for submission for the Atlas data was too late for the results to reach the subregional editors in time for this report, and thus many could not be included. The season was significantly warmer than usual. There was very little rainfall in July, cre- ating drought conditions that changed the habitat at stopover sites for migrating shore- birds. Extensive mudflats were created in some marshy areas, and many of the usual mudflats dried up completely. The drought also pre- vented farmers from making a second cut of hay, which resulted in increased abundance of field breeders like Bobolinks. Among the unusual rarities were a mid-summer Boreal Chickadee near Hamilton, a Barn Owl near Sarnia, and a Northern Wheatear at Long Point. Abbreviations: C.A. (Conservation Area); C.W.S. (Canadian Wildlife Service); K.F.N. (Kingston Field Naturalists); Long Point (Long Point Bird Observatory, Haldimand-Norfolk); M. N. R. (Ministry of Natural Resources, Ontario); Pelee (Pt. Pelee N.P. and vicinity, Essex); W. T. P. (Water Treatment Plant). Algonquin and Presqu’ile are Provincial Parks. Place names in italics refer to counties, districts, or regional municipalities. LOONS THROUGH WATERFOWL Single Red-throated Loons at Pickering, Durham 1 Jun (GC), at Burlington, Halton 2 Jun (KAM), and at Bluffer’s Park, Toronto 8-10 Jun (CH, TCyfide ONTBIRDS) were late strag- glers, as were 2 Common Loons at Pelee 3 Jun (KS). On the other hand, a Common Loon at Kettle Point, Lambton 4 Jul (AR) and 2 at Bronte Harbour, Halton 14 Jul (GE) were probably summering nonbreeders, as were sin- gle Horned Grebes in Hamilton Harbour 24 Jun (BCh) and at Rattray Marsh, Peel 21— 24 Jul (CSAM, CH, fide ONTBIRDS). At the Rainy River S.T.R, 4 Eared Grebes were observed 1 Jun (DE, m. ob.). A pair was nesting at the Emo S.T.R, Rainy River, 7 Jun (DE, BR, GCo) and photographed 10 Jun (G&MP, RBHS). The nest subsequently failed owing to lowered water levels (DE). Of several pairs of Red- necked Grebes attempting to nest in the Bronte Harbour Marina, Halton, only one pair had some success. By the end of Jul, it had 2 fledg- lings and some eggs still to hatch. Another pair lost all seven eggs when the nest slipped off the floating tire (GE). They had rebuilt their nest by the end of Jul (GE, m. ob.). A total of 18 Red-necked Grebes was in the area of Bronte Harbour, Halton during the greater part of the period (GE), and 42 were at Rattray Marsh, Peel 20 Jul (CSAM, fide ONTBIRDS). Altogether this indicates a significant s. expan- sion of their range. A flock of 7 Red-necked Grebes at Nym L., Rainy River 22 Jul were early fall migrants (SP). American White Pelicans were seen regular- ly on L. Superior at Black Bay (AE) and Mission L, both Thunder Bay (BR et al.). There were 3000 imm. Double-crested Cormorants along with 20 ads. at Kettle Point, Lambton 30 Jun (AR), providing evidence for the increase in the population of this species in the Great Lakes Region. A good place to observe Least Bittern this year was the St. Clair N.W.R., Kent, at least 9 were seen flying above the cattails in one hour 22 Jul (BAM). An apparently active nest of Least Bittern was at Miller Creek C.A., Peterborough (EN). At Horseshoe Bay on Lake Huron, Bruce, 3 Glossy Ibis were present until 1 Jun (CC). Three pairs of Great Egrets returned to nest on High Bluff 1. at Presqu’ile for the 2nd year (C.W.S,, fide MR). Otherwise there were few reports of Great Egrets from the Province except for 4 individuals at the Leslie Street Spit, Toronto 2 Jul (JSm) and one at High Park, Toronto, 1 Jul (RBHS), as well as the usual congregation of imm. birds in Essex: 184-1- at Big Creek (KK, fide ONTBIRDS) and 200-t- at Holiday Beach in June (FU, fide ONTBIRDS). A Black- crowned Night-Heron, a rarity for the Peterborough Area, was on a raft on the Otonabee River 14 Jul (BT). A record high number of 12 Mute Swans were in the Pelee Area 10 Jun (DW). A Brant lingered at Cobourg Harbour, Northumberland until 26 Jun (CEG), and another was at Driftwood RR, Renfrew 5 Jul {BK, fide ONTBIRDS). Five fam- ilies of Wood Duck at the Grand Bend W.T.R, Lambton were an unusual sight (AR). The Canvasback at the Leslie Street Spit, Toronto that provided the first nesting record for Ontario last year had abandoned the only nest with five eggs by 8 Jul this year (RBHS). Single Lesser Scaup at Hillman Marsh, Relee 7 Jun-24 Jul (AW, et al.), at Cobourg Harbour, Northumberland 1 Jun-3 Jul (CEG), and at Darlington RR, Durham 15 Jul (THo) were clearly out-of-season, as were single Greater Scaup at Tavistock W.T.R, Oxford 1-8 Jun (JH) and Mineral Springs, Hamilton 18 Jul (AW). Other lingering or summering nonbreeding ducks were a Ring-necked Duck at Humber Bay Park, Toronto 27 Jun (BY), a Long-tailed Duck at Prince Edward Pt., Prince Edward 27 Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 429 ENJOY VERY SPECIAL BIRDINC Feb 23 to Mar 7 - Cruise the Lower Caribbean Tropical forest birding at its most comfortable; 200 species last year including many psittacidae, raptors and tanagers. Clipper Cruise Line, (800) 814-9393, x44l#, csperry@intrav.com Mar 26 to 31 - Dominican Republic 27 endemics and many more Caribbean species. Baoruco Mtns. & SW lowlands. Small group; locally resident U.S. guide. OBServ Tours, Inc. (615) 292-2739; observinc@aol.com April 15 to 28 - Botswana Birding safari to Mashatu, Chobe & Okavango. Extraordinaiy birding, exciting views of mammals; excellent accommodation. 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Talon Tours, (707) 795-7547, talontours@yahoo.com Dec 5 to 14 - Cruise Costa Rica & Panama Canal Bird Darien Jungle and canal region, Marenco, Curur Wildlife Refuge, Carara and other special areas of Costa Rica travelling in luxury fi-om port to port. Clipper Cruise Line, (800) 814-9393, x44l#, csperry@intrav.com SHORT TRIPS FOR TARGET SPECIES Pacific Northwest Pelagic Trips - The Bird Guide, (503) 844-6876; guide@teleport.com British Columbia, Nova Scotia, Maine, Texas, Colorado, California, North Carolina and Newfoundland, OBServ Tours, Inc. (6l5) 292-2739; obsei-vinc@aol.com Hawaii - The Big Island, Hawaii Forest & Trail, (800) 464-1993, info@hawaii-forest.com Please contact tour company directly for inforaiation and reseivations, and identify yourself as an ABA member. Tour companies pay ABA a commission for each ABA participant. 'M I 9^ www.americanbirding.org Ontario Jun (RTS), and a Common Goldeneye at Darlington RR, Durham 2 Jul (THo). A female Common Eider on Amherst I., Prince Edward 1-30 Jun was helping female Canada Geese tend a nursery containing a large number of goslings (K. E N.). RAPTORS THROUGH TERNS There were three occupied Osprey nests in the s. Bruce Peninsula, Bruce during the period (JJ), more than in the last 40 years. A pair of Bald Eagles returned to nest at the Trent R. near Havelock, Peterborough and raised young (M. N. R., fide DS). Young Bald Eagles also fledged from two nests in the Kingston area, Frontenac (K. E N.). This represents a steadily improving situation in areas where nesting ended some 50 years ago (RW). Rough-legged Hawks were much in the news. Two sum- mered near the Alfred W. T. R, Prescott and Russell (JB, GP, fide ONTBIRDS), while a sin- gle was at Amherst I., Prince Edward 15 Jun (KF, AS). In the Thunder Bay area, several were noted, very unusual for Jun and Jul (CE, RS, NE), as were 3 the Rainy River District during the period (DE). Urban Peregrine Falcons nested in nine places, three pairs in Toronto, two in Mississauga, Peel, and one each in Hamilton, St. Catherines, Niagara, London, and Ottawa. Unfortunately of the total of at least 27 eggs, only 13 young fledged and 9 sur- vived to independence, a considerably reduced success rate compared to that of the 2000 sea- son (MG, fide www.peregrine-foundation.ca). A female Ring-necked Pheasant with 8-10 young was seen in the Upper Humber Valley in Toronto, where this species had been thought to have died out 3-4 years ago (JI, fide SE). A rare Northern Bobwhite was singing in breed- ing habitat in Middlesex during mid-Jun (PR). A Yellow Rail was heard calling in the Kabitotikwia R. marsh on L. Nipigon, Thunder Bay 21 Jul (NE). A rare King Rail was at Long Point 25 Jun— 31 Jul-(- (RR, m. ob.). A s. exten- sion of the breeding range of Sandhill Cranes is suggested by several birds seen and heard in three places in the Peterborough area; 2 were at the mouth of the Otonabee R. flying and call- ing 7 Jun (MT); at Goose L., 3 were seen in early Jul (MBa); and another 3 were flying near Pigeon L. 18 Jul (BL, DS). Elsewhere 2 were at Cranberry Marsh, Durham 6 Jun (DL). Two ads. were at Sturgeon Creek, Pelee 4 Jun— 31 Jul-l- (AW), where they were joined by another 22 Jun (AW, et al.) and 2 more 5 Jul (AW). All 5 stayed past 31 Jul. Late spring migrants were 15 Black-bellied Plovers at Cranberry Marsh, Durham 7 Jun (FP). A Piping Plover was at Long Point 10-15 Jun (IR) and another at Presqu’ile 2 Jun only (JT, BE). An all-time record high count at Pelee was established by 579 Killdeer 16 Jul (AW). Single American Avocets were at Aylmer, Elgin 29-30 Jun (DMa, LW, fide ONTBIRDS), at Bond Head, Durham 1 Jul (ML, m. ob.), and at the Tollgate Ponds in Hamilton 22 Jul (MCr). Whereas a Greater Yellowlegs 2 Jun and one Lesser Yellowlegs 8 Jun (JH) at Tavistock, Oxford were considered late spring migrants, a Greater and a Lesser Yellowlegs at Pelee 22 Jun were likely early fall migrants (AW). All-time record high numbers of fall migrants were set at Hillmarsh and Sturgeon Creek, Pelee, by 44 Solitary Sandpipers, 91 Spotted Sandpipers, and 278 Least Sandpipers 16 Jul (AW). Short- billed Dowitchers were early fall migrants at Hillman Marsh, Pelee, with 4 on 29 Jun and 48 on 1 Jul (AW, DW). Three Willets at Cranberry Marsh 9 Jun (DL) were highly unusual. A Marbled Godwit was at Long Point 31 Jul (JA et al.) Flocks of 250 Ruddy Turnstones at Cobourg Harbour, Northumberland 5 Jun (CEG) and 600 at Prince Edward Pt., Prince Edward 1 Jun (RTS) were marginally late migrants for those areas, as were 15 White- rumped Sandpipers at Cranberry Marsh, Durham 8 Jun (MB) and 3 for the Tip of Long Point 16 Jun (MH). A Pectoral Sandpiper 25 Jun was Long Point’s earliest fall record by almost three weeks (JA, MH). A flock of 38 Dunlin at Ryder Ponds in Whitby, Durham 8 Jun was remarkable (MB). A Dunlin in breed- ing plumage at Presqu’ile 8-1 1 Jul (JT, m. ob.) was probably the earliest fall migrant for the Park. An ad. female Ruff at Hillman Marsh, Pelee 28 Jul was the 1 1th recorded in the last 12 years (AW). An out-of-season Parasitic Jaeger was resting on the water near Port Dover, Haldimand 3 ]u\ (GR,/ide ONTBIRDS). A Laughing Gull was at the Tip, Long Point 15 Jun (MH). A Franklin’s Gull at Wildwood Lake, Oxford 9 Jul was the 2nd record for the county (JH). Single Little Gulls were at Long Point 1—2 Jun (IR), at Kingsville, Essex 7 Jul (DW), and up to 3 were at Hillman Marsh, Pelee, in mid-Jul (AW). Little Gulls are found regularly at Port Burwell RR, Elgin from Jul to Oct, but 14 individuals 19 Jul were the largest number at this site (DMa, LW, fide ONT- BIRDS). A highly unusual nesting site of three pairs of Ring-billed Gulls was found in an open field — a bison pasture — in the Thunder Bay Area 10 Jun (GCo, M&GR, RBHS). The nests were on low piles of straw. A California Gull at Long Roint 30 Jun was only the 4th record there (IR). Whereas a single Forster’s Tern at Rresqu’ile on 2 & 6 Jun was unusual (D8cIS, TB), a flock of 215 Forster’s Terns 1 Jul at Sturgeon Creek, Relee (AW) was exception- ally high, although it was close to the breeding grounds. South of their regular breeding range were nesting Bonaparte’s Gulls near Dryden, Rainy River (PRa, BM). A colony of Black Terns has been discovered on the Matawin R., Thunder Bay (KMc), and 124 were counted at the Kingsville, Essex waterfront 7 Jul (DW). DOVES THROUGH CHICKADEES A White-winged Dove at Lappe, Thunder Bay 28—30 Jun was a rare vagrant (D&AC, m. ob.). The observation of a Barn Owl in Lambton 28 Jul was a very rare event for s. Ontario (AR). A Snowy Owl at Erieau Harbour, Kent 13-15 Jun (m. ob.) was extraordinarily late. Northern Hawk Owls nested and raised 3 young in e. Ontario near Alfred, Prescott-Russell, repre- senting only the 2nd nesting record for the area (JB, m. ob., fide ONTBIRDS) Another pair nested near Verner, Nipissing and raised 4 young (RT, m. ob.), and six nesting pairs were recorded near Raith and Black Sturgeon L., both Thunder Bay, this spring (NE). All of these nestings are presumably the result of the record winter irruption of the species. Short- eared Owls were found at three new breeding locations in the Thunder Bay District (NE). A pair near Binbrook, Hamilton provided the first breeding record for Hamilton (PT). At Selkirk RR, Haldimand, a juv. Northern Saw- whet Owl was banded 17 Jul (JBM) and may well represent the first breeding record for the county. A surprising number of Whip-poor- wills — 15 — ^was counted at Wainfleet, Niagara 2 Jul (YH). At the n. edge of their range. Whip- poor-wills were found n. of Kakabeka Falls (KM) and near Armstrong, both Thunder Bay (AH). Red-headed Woodpeckers have suffered a severe decline in s. Ontario during recent years. It is encouraging, therefore, that reports of sightings and breeding have come from many different parts of the area. Thus most encouraging were 1 1 Red-headed Woodpeckers in the Rainy River Area 6 Jun (DE, BR), as well as probable nesting pairs at Darlington Park Road, Durham 14-29 Jul (ML, m. ob.), at a site near Cobourg, Northumberland in mid-Jun (CEG, SB), at Pinery RR, Lambton, at Antrim, Ottawa 8 Jul (fide ONTBIRDS), and near Kleinburg, York during the period (JL). Four individuals were in Marcy’s Wood at Abidon Point, Niagara 14 Jun (MT), and a family of 2 ads. and 2 juvs. were at Humber Marsh, Toronto 21 Jul (GCo). All indicators of an ongoing increase in the population, at least 7 Acadian Flycatchers were noted migrating through Pelee 4—23 Jun (AW), 5 territorial males were in the Long Point Area (IR), 4 pairs bred successfully at Skunk’s Misery near Newbury, Middlesex (PR), and a Volume 55 {2001), Number 4 431 singing male was at Halton Region Forest 8 Jun (JO, m. ob.) A pair of Eastern Phoebes at the De Laurier House, Pelee fledged 3 young 5 Jul, the first breeding record for Pelee in many decades (AW). A pair of Western Kingbirds nested on a microwave tower at Rainy River 14 Iun-6 Jul (GCo, RBHS, G&MP, DE). Single vagrant Scissor-tailed Flycatchers were at Whitby, Durham 15 Jul (CA et al.) and at the Embrun W.T.P., Prescott -Russell 25-26 Jul (JS, m. ob., fide ONTBIRDS). A s. breeding expan- sion of Blue-headed Vireos is indicated by the observation of ads. with fledglings on Canoe L. 15 Jul and Perth Road 21 Jul; both locations are n. of Kingston, Frontenac (RW). N. of typical breeding range was a pair of Warbling Vireos building a nest at the waterfront at Thunder Bay 10 Jun (BM, NE). Common Ravens are expanding their range in s. Ontario. One was at Grafton, Northumberland 5 Jun (CEG) and another at Long Point 5 Jun (JF), the 7th Long Point area record. A Saskatchewan Horned Lark (subspecies enthymia) at the West Beach, Pelee 5 Jun has not previously been recorded in Ontario (AW). An unusual event took place on Pelee L, Essex 30 Jun when a Bullfrog swallowed a newly- fledged Tree Swallow (DW, fide ONT- BIRDS). A flyby of 13,000 Bank Swallows in two hours at the Tip at Pelee 29 Jul (AW) may have been an unprecedented spectacle. A Northern Wheatear was at Hastings Drive, Long Point on 8 Jun (RC, AM, et al.) and was a first for the Long Point Area; this bird could have been part of a late spring push of the species through e. Canada. A Boreal Chickadee at Beverley Swamp, Flamilton 10-11 Jun (AW, DG et al.) was the first since 1976 in this gener- al area (AW). WRENS THROUGH FINCHES A Sedge Wren at Fullerton, Oxford 1 Jun was the first reported in the area in 16 years (DB). An ad. Blue-gray Gnatcatcher with 3 young was near Wiarton, Bruce 26 Jun at the n. edge of its usual breeding range (JJ). Numerous sightings of Northern Mockingbirds, especially in the Greater Toronto area, attest to a large increase in the population, although more effort due to atlasing may account for some of the increase. A genuine increase in the population seems likely and can be accounted by a high rate of fledging, thanks to the dry summer. Confirmed breeding was reported from two sites in Peel, 1 1 sites in York, and eight sites in Toronto (RBHS, T.O.C. Newsletter, Sep 2001 ). In one 10x10 km square in the York Region alone, six active nests were confirmed and two more were probable (TH). As well, there was a number of single birds reported (TH, RBHS, WY). At least 3 Northern Mockingbirds were as far n. as the Thunder Bay Area (m. ob.); the males were singing daily. Another bird was on the Sibley Peninsula, Thunder Bay (PC). A male Brewster’s Warbler was in Kanata, Ottawa 8 Jul (CL, fide ONTBIRDS). A rarer female Lawrence’s Warbler was at Dundas Valley, Hamilton 24 Jun ()0, m. ob.). An ad. male Northern Parula at Pelee 16 Jul was a record early fall migrant (AW, HTO). A male Blackburnian Warbler at Woodstock, Oxford 20 Jun was a late spring migrant ( JH), whereas one at Pelee 21 Jul (PR, DMa) and another at Long Point 30 Jul (IR) were early fall migrants. More than 12 pairs of Cerulean Warblers were found at Skunk’s Misery near Newbury, Middlesex during the season (PR). Single male Louisiana Waterthrushes in the Ganaraska Forest, Durham 2 Jun (RP) and at the Boyd C. A., York in mid-Jul (LN) were unusual. A singing male Kentucky Warbler was at Dundas Valley, Hamilton 28 lun— mid-Jul (SMcG), and 2 were at Long Point 13 Jun (IR). The population of Hooded Warblers may be increasing: 10 were found at Marcy’s Wood near Abidon Pt., Niagara 14 Jun (MT); 12 birds were reported from the Greater Toronto area; 12 breeding pairs were at Dundas Valley, Hamilton, for the period (BC, AW, SMcG); and at least 50 terri- toral males and 35 nests were recorded at Long Point (IR). Male Yellow-breasted Chats near Inverhuron, Bruce 6 Jun (DF) and at Ancaster, Hamilton 16-17 Jun (JH) were most unusual. A male Summer Tanager was present at Wilson Tract at Long Point during Jun and Jul (m. ob.). Only one Henslow’s Sparrow at Roblin, Lennox & Addington 1 Jun (RW) was reported for the whole province. A White-crowned Sparrow was at St. Robert School, Markham, York 29 Jul (WY), the first summer record for the Greater Toronto area. Single Clay-colored Sparrows were singing at the Headquarters of Long Point for most of Jun (IR) and near Sauble Beach, Bruce 20 Jul ( JJ). A Lark Sparrow was banded at Thunder Cape, Thunder Bay 8 Jun (BRod). A singing Western Meadowlark, first heard in early Apr, was present at Clappisons Corner, Hamilton to the end of Jul-I- (RD, m. ob.). Orchard Orioles were successfully nesting in both traditional and new locations. One pair was at Cobourg, Northumberland 21 Jun, along with a single bird (CEG). Single Orchards were banded at Selkirk P.P., Norfolk 17 8c 26 Jul and 3 on 29 Jul (JBM), which suggested a good breed- ing season. Male Yellow-headed Blackbirds at the Port Darlington Marina, Durham 8 Jun (MB) and in Bond Head, Durham, 1 Jul were well outside their usual sw. Ontario range. The only noteworthy record from Algonquin for this season was a pair of Red Crossbills with 2 fledged young at Basin Lake Road 17 Jun (RSt). Cited observers (subregional editors in bold- face): Jody Allaire, Robert Andrle, Ted Armstrong, Charmaine Anderson, Margaret Bain, Mike Barker (MBa), Tony Beck, Siegmar Bodach, Jacques Bouvier, Dave Brown, Evelyn Brown, Geoff Carpentier, Cindy Cartwright, Barry Cherriere (BCh), D. 8c A. Christianson, Glenn Coady (GCo), P. Colby, Rob Copeland, Mark Cranford (MCr), Thomas Crooks, Bob Curry, Robert Dobos, Sandra Eadie, Carolle Eady, Dave Elder, Gavin Edmondstone, Aarre Ertolahti, Nick Escott, Bob Falconer, Dave Fidler, J. Fisher, K. Fleming, Marcel Gahbauer, D. Gardiner (DG), Clive Goodwin (CEG), Al Harris, Y. Henderson, Matt Hindle, Tyler Hoar (THo), Theo Hofmann, James Holdsworth, Carol Horner, Jean Iron, Joe Johnson, Karl Konze, Burke Korol, Bob Lemon, Chris Lewis, Markus Lise, Doug Lockrey, Joan Love, Blake A. Mann (BAM), Dave Martin (DMa), Sheldon McGregor (SMcG), Craig S.A. McLauchlan (CSAM), Kevin McLaughlin (KAM), John B. Miles, Alex Mills, Kimberly McNaughton, Brian Moore, Erica Nol, Lionel Normand, John Olmsted, Henrietta T. O’Neill (HTO), ONT- BIRDS (an email listserv by Ontario Field Ornithologists; for information: www.inter- log.com/~ofo), George 8c Mark Peck, Shirley Peruniak, Frank Pinilla, Gordon Pringle, Rayfield Pye, Brian Ratcliff, Penny Ratushniak (PRa), Peter Read, Ian Richards, Alf Rider, Ron Ridout, Maureen Riggs, Garth Riley, Bruce Rodrigues (BRod), Doug Sadler, J. Slumkowski, A. Scott, Keith Sealy, Don 8c Ian Shanahan, Roy Smith (RBHS), Jake Smythe (JSm), R.T. Sprague, Mike Street, Rick Stronks (RSt), Rob Swainson, Richard Tafel, Monika Tan, Ben Taylor, Peter Thoem, John Thomson, Ron Tozer, Michael Turisk, Fred Urie, Dean Ware, Ron Weir, Linda Wlardaski, Alan Wormington, Bob Yukich, Winnie Yung. A 432 North American Birds Appalachia —I ^ ' - Robert C. Leberman Powdermill Nature Reserve Carnegie Museum of Natural History HC 64, Box 453 Rector, Pennsylvania 15677-9605 (rcleberm@charterpa.net) There was a consensus over most of the Region that the breeding season for a wide range of songbirds was among the most successful in recent years. This was certainly reflected in the number of recently fledged vireos, catbirds, wood-warblers, and sparrows captured for banding at both Powdermill Nature Reserve in western Pennsylvania and at the Southern West Virginia Bird Research Center. Heavy rains in the southern half of the Region may have improved nesting success for grassland species because of delays in the cutting of hayfields. In late July, these heavy rains also contributed to some good fallouts of shorebirds. A scattering of unusual nonbreeding bird sightings, such as Wood Stork in the Georgia mountains, a Mississippi Kite in northeastern Tennessee, and 2 American White Pelicans and a Least Tern in Pennsylvania, also added to the impression that it was a good summer for birding in Appalachia. Abbreviations: G.R.W.M.A. (Grand R. Wild. Management Area, Trumbull, OH); P.N.R. (Powdermill Nature Reserve, Rector, Westmoreland, PA); P.l.S.P. (Presque Isle S.P., Erie, PA). LOONS THROUGH STORKS Reports of summering Gommon Loons includ- ed 2 birds as far s. as Watauga L., Carter, TN 9 Jul {fide RK), and one at Mt. Solon 16 Jun, the latter just the 2nd summer record for Augusta, VA [fide YL). Four family groups of Pied-billed Grebes totalling 19 birds were found at G.R.W.M.A. 7 Jul (DH); as usual, several pairs nested at Gonneaut Marsh, Crawford, PA (DB, RFL, RGL), and a newly fledged young at Yellow Cr. S.P., PA 16 Jul represented the first confirmed breeding there (MH). Two out-of-season Pied- billeds were at Dillard, Rabun, GA 11 Jul (DF, AM), one was at Brainerd Levee, Hamilton, TN 5 Jul (BW), and another at Pipestem, Summers, WV 1 Jun ( JP ) . A Horned Grebe was a rare sum- mer find at Saybrook, Warren, PA 3 Jun (GNe). An American White Pelican strayed to P.l.S.P. 19 Jul (JMc), at the same time that another was observed 35 mi to the s. on the upper reservoir at Pymatuning L., PA (RGL, RFL). Two nests of Double-crested Cormorants were located at Rankin Bottoms, Cocke, TN 19 Jun (RK) for the Region’s lone breeding report; the high count of nonbreeding birds was 28 at Pymatuning L., PA 18 Jun (RFL). The number of breeding Great Blue Herons continues to increase throughout Appalachia; a large rookery at Lordstown, Trumbull, OH con- tained 374 nests 18 Jun (GB); in Hawkins, TN there were 126 nests at one rookery (RK), and there were over 30 known nesting colonies from the Knoxville area down the Tennessee R. to Ghattanooga (RK). Up to 14 Great Egrets sum- mered at Rankin Bottoms, TN, where they may have been nesting along with a small new colony of Great Blue Herons. The lone Snowy Egret report this season was of one at P.l.S.P. 6 Jun (JMc). Always a rare find in w. Pennsylvania, 2 Little Blue Herons were at Dunning Gr. wet- lands, Bedford 10 Jun (TD), and there were 2 imms. at Woodcock L., Crawford, PA 6 Jul (RFL); in Tennessee, an imm. Little Blue was at Kingston Steam Plant 20 Jul (RH, DM). There were several reports of Gattle Egret in Raleigh, WV this summer (RG), and one from Rankin Bottoms, TN 3 Jun (RK). The 30-t- Black- crowned Night-Herons that summered at Rankin Bottoms were presumed to be nesting nearby (RK); more unusual were the 2 ads. at Gonneautville, Crawford, PA 15 Jun (CN), and an imm. at L. Osceola, Henderson, NC 31 Jul (RSe). Summering Yellow-crowned Night- Herons, rare in the Appalachians, were found at Elizabethton (RK) and at two localities in Hamilton, TN (KG), as well as in Raleigh,. WY (RG). The Wood Stork seen soaring over the Toccoa R., Fannin, GA 26 Jul was very unusual for the mountains of that state (GB, DF). WATERFOWL THROUGH CRANES A Tundra Swan lingered at P.l.S.P. through 10 Jun (BG), a rare Regional summer record. Unseasonal sightings of ducks at Presque Isle included 2 American Wigeon 7 Jun (RSt) and a single bird 28 Jul (JMc), a Northern Pintail 17 Jul (GR), 2 Lesser Scaup 8 Jul (JMc), and 2 Red- breasted Mergansers 6 Jun (JMc). A male Blue- winged Teal remained at Brainerd Levee, TN through 15 Jun (KG); in Pennsylvania 4 ads. with 2 ducklings were seen 4 Jul at Imperial, Allegheny, providing just the 2nd county nesting record (BM). A Green-winged Teal at Bell’s Lane, Staunton, VA 5 Jun established a new late spring date for that locality (AL). Gommon Mergansers continued to expand their n. Pennsylvania breeding range: a flock of 40, including many young, was seen in Bradford during late Jul (RSh), and a female with 7 downy young at Erie N.W.R. 6 Jun established the first Crawford breeding record (GM). The season’s only report of Ruddy Duck was of 3 ad. males at Pymatuning L., PA 13 Jul (CN). A Mississippi Kite at Greenville, TN 11 Jul was a first Greene county record (J8cLR). A pair Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 433 of Peregrine Falcons was observed throughout the period at a railroad bridge below Chickamauga Dam, Hamilton, TN (KC), and a pair was also nesting in Great Smoky Mts. N.P. (RK, m. oh.). Several observers, from Pennsylvania to Tennessee, commented on the scarcity of Northern Bobwhites this season, but the species was thought to be increasing at sev- eral mountain stripmine sites in Boone and Logan, WV (RC). Virginia Rails and Sora had good breeding success at their stronghold at Conneaut Marsh, PA, where many young were observed (DB, RCL, RFL), and farther s., a Virginia Rail was heard calling at Mt. Nebo, Garrett, MD 18 lun (FP). A pair of American Coot nested near Volant, Lawrence, PA, the Region’s only such report (BD). Now firmly established as breeding birds in nw. Pennsylvania, several Sandhill Cranes were reg- ularly seen in their usual Lawrence and Mercer sites (BD, NT), and there were additional reports of cranes in Crawford and Venango ( KB, m. oh.). SHOREBIRDS THROUGH TERNS There was a good early shorebird flight through Appalachia. An American Avocet at L. Oneida, Butler, PA 1 Jul (DDr, DY) represented the earli- est “fall” record for the state by two weeks. Following heavy rains, a flock of 142 Lesser Yellowlegs settled on a flooded field in Greene, TN 29 Jul (AH, JB); 30 were at Brainerd Levee (KC) on the same date; and 20 were on rain- soaked, freshly harvested sod fields at Hooper Lane, Henderson, NC 25 Jul (WF, BO). An exceptionally high count of 24 Solitary Sandpipers was made at Mosquito L. and G.R.W.M.A. 15 Jul (DH). Three Willets stopped over on one flooded field, and 7 at another site in Greene, TN 29 Jul (fide RK). In w. Pennsylvania, there were numerous, if widely scattered, reports of breeding Upland Sandpipers, with the best numbers in Somerset, including an observation of 2 ads. still in the company of at least 2 half-grown downy young on the late date of 7 Jul (RM); reports of at least 3 birds also came from Garrett, MD (FP). An early Whimbrel was a rare find at Hooper Lane, NC 25 Jul (WF, BO), and an early Red Knot appeared at P.I.S.P. 25 Jun (JMc). Over 20 Semipalmated Sandpipers stopped at Hooper Lane 25 Jul (WF, BO) and 50 at G.R.W.M.A on the 29th (DH). Four White-rumped Sandpipers lingered at Dunning Cr. wetlands, Bedford, PA late May-5 Jun (TD). Five early Baird’s Sandpiper were at Shenango Res., Mercer, PA 28 Jul (RSt), and one stopped at Mosquito L., OH the next day (DH). Stilt Sandpipers were widely reported in late Jul, with a high count of 25 in a flooded field in Greene, TN 29 Jul (AH, JB). Very few unusual gull species strayed into Appalachia this summer; however, a Laughing Gull was a rare find at P.I.S.P. 6 Jun (BC), and a Bonaparte’s at Prince Gallitzin S.P., Cambria, PA 23 Jun ( JS) was a bit out of time and place. The number of nonbreeding Ring-billed Gulls con- tinued to increase dramatically at Pymatuning L., PA, where well over 1000 could be seen on any day throughout the season (RCL, RFL), and they were observed to be increasing substantial- ly in s. West Virginia as well (RC). A recently established colony of Herring Gulls at Pittsburgh continued to grow (SK), and 2 fledg- lings were also discovered 35 mi. up the Allegheny R. from Pittsburgh at Kittanning (PH). Two early Forster’s Terns were a rare find at Swoope, Augusta, VA 29 Jul (AL), and a Least Tern appeared at Dunning Cr. wetlands, Bradford, PA 11 Jun (KG) as Tropical Storm Allison was moving up the Mississippi Valley (ftdeJD). One or two pairs of Black Terns again persisted in nesting in the Pymatuning L. region (RFL, RCL, DW), and 3 early migrants were a good find at Brainerd Levee, TN 28 Jul (fideKC). DOVES THROUGH WRENS The White-winged Dove that had appeared at a feeding station in New Castle, PA this spring was last seen 15 Jun (CG); another that visited a feeder in Aaronsburg, Centre, PA 11-14 Jun (MKi) provided the 3rd w. Pennsylvania record. A Black-billed Cuckoo was a good find at a site at an elevation of over 4000 ft in Monroe, TN 12 Jun (KC), and 2 were near Bunch Gap, NC 9 Jun ( WF, BO). At the S. West Virginia Bird Research Center, however, Black-billeds were found in the lowest numbers of the last 8 years (RC). Short-eared Owls continued to increase as breeding birds in w. Pennsylvania, where they were found in at least six different sites, includ- ing a count of 6 birds at a reclaimed stripmine near Volant, Lawrence, PA (m. ob.). An organ- ized census of Northern Saw-whet Owls in Pennsylvania — Project Toot Route — has shown the species to be unexpectedly widespread across the state; one route included 7 calling birds near Reynold.sville, Jefferson, PA 5 Jun ( JF), and 2 birds near New Castle 10 Jun represented the first summer records for Lawrence, PA (BD). Farther s., a nest of Saw-whets was found at a box on Roan Mt., TN this summer (RK, AT). Common Nighthawks continued their long- term decline over much of the Appalachian region; at Morgantown, WV, it was speculated that the disappearance of a once-large colony may be due to predation on eggs and young by American Crows (GHB). Following a period of low numbers. Whip-poor-wills continued to make a comeback in s. West Virginia, where 57 singing males were listed at various sites this summer (RC); good numbers were also found in the Pennsylvania mts., during Project Toot Route, including 6 at Central City and 10 at Mt. Davis, Somerset, PA (JPa). After many years of declining numbers, it was encouraging that Red-headed Woodpeckers were reported to be increasing (and to have nested successfully) at a number of scattered sites in e. Ohio (CB, DH), w. Pennsylvania (BD, CL, RM), and w. Maryland (FP). A Yellow-bel- lied Sapsucker, with 2 newly fledged young, was found in Johnson, TN 19 Jun for the first con- firmed breeding in the ne. part of that state (RK). Alder Flycatchers appeared to be doing well in w. Pennsylvania, where they were widely report- ed (m. ob.), and the “usual” six to eight pairs summered at Roan Mt., TN (RK, AT). Willow Flycatcher populations, however, seemed down at P.N.R. (RCL, RM), and the species was in exceptionally low numbers in s. West Virginia (RC). Least Flycatchers were more common than usual across n. Trumbull, OH, where 6 ter- ritorial males were located through mid-Jul (DH). Great Crested Flycatchers were doing well in Crawford, PA (RFL), and in West Virginia, numbers were up near Morgantown (GHB) and the species considered abundant in the s. part of the state (RC). Eastern Kingbirds were described as common, with many family groups observed later in the season, on four grassland bird survey routes in Bedford and Fulton, PA (RM). A dis- junct population of Scissor-tailed Flycatchers in e. Tennessee, first observed several years ago, again attempted nesting, with single pairs locat- ed this summer in both Sequatchie and Marion (fide KC). Over 3000 Tree Swallows were staging for migration along a road crossing Conneaut Marsh, Crawford, PA on 19 Jul, and 50 Rough- winged Swallows were gathered there 25 Jul (RFL, RCL); both are good counts for the area. A high count of over 1000 migrating Bank Swallows was noteworthy in Greene, TN 30 Jul (DM). Single Red-breasted Nuthatches were seen at two sites in Rabun, GA along the Chatooga R. 11 Jul (DF), and breeding birds were found at Red River Gorge, Wolfe, KY for the 6th consecutive year (FR). The only report of Sedge Wren was of one near Worthington, Armstrong, PA 25-26 Jun ( JF). Marsh Wren pop- ulations were good at Conneaut Marsh, PA, where 16 were heard along one short stretch of road at Geneva 15 Jul (RFL, RCL); four territo- ries were located at G.R.W.A., OH throughout the summer (DH). WARBLERS THROUGH FINCHES Over 40 Golden-winged Warblers made for an unexpectedly high count during an intensive 434 North American Birds Appalachia — Western Great Lakes survey in Carter, TN (AT), but just 20 were banded at the S. West Virginia Bird Research Center, compared to an average of 51 for past years (RC). In Pennsylvania, just one was band- ed at P.N.R. (the 40-year average is 6), where none was known to have nested for the first time in 40 years (RCL, RM). Five Yellow-rumped Warblers were found at a probable nesting site at Elliott Knob, Augusta, VA 16 Jun {fide YL); the status of a bird at P.I.S.P. 7 Jun, where the species has not been known to breed, was uncertain (RSt). Yellow-throated Warblers are now firmly established along the Allegheny R. as far n. as Warren, PA, where at least three pairs were breeding in Jun (TG). Late migrants at P.I.S.P. 7 Jun included both a Pine and a Bay-breasted Warbler (RSt). Just two reports of Swainson’s Warbler were received: one of 2 birds along Burrell’s Ford Rd., Rabun, GA 11 Jul (DF), and the other of a bird heard singing at Red R. Gorge, KY 30 Jun (FR). No Kentucky Warblers could be found (DGD) in the Shenandoah Valley, VA this season, and the breeding popula- tion at P.N.R. seemed lower than during most recent years (RCL, RM). The number of breed- ing Hooded Warblers, too, may have been low at P.N.R.; but nesting success was apparently high, with 25, mostly imm. birds, banded during the 2nd half of Jul (RCL, RM). A male Mourning Warbler on Roan Mt., TN 23 Jun— 1 Jul (AT) represented the first local summer record. Yellow-breasted Chats were missing from sever- al nesting areas in s. West Virginia (RC) and were notably scarce in the Laurel Highlands of sw. Pennsylvania (RCL, RM). In Pennsylvania, single Clay-colored Sparrows were found near Mill Run, Fayette 17 Jun (RM), at Worthington, Armstrong 25 Jun (JF), and 3 or more were near Phillipsburg, Jefferson 3 Jun (EZ); and even more unusual was a Clay-colored at Canaan Valley S.P., WV 11 Jun-24 Jul (MK, JN). Grassland surveys, con- ducted over nine w. Pennsylvania counties this summer, indicated that many grassland spar- rows continue to be quite common in suitable habitat; hundreds of Henslow’s, Grasshopper, and Savannah Sparrows were observed — most abundantly in Clearfield and Clarion (DB). Savannah Sparrow numbers were up in e. Tennessee, with at least 10 birds located in Washington and Johnson counties (RK). A late spring White-throated Sparrow was still at P.I.S.P., where the species does not nest, 7 Jun (RSt), and an early fall migrant or summer wan- derer was banded there 17 Jul (RFL). Rose- breasted Grosbeaks appeared to be completely absent from traditional breeding sites in the upper Cedar Cr. Valley, Shenandoah, VA (DGD), but breeding populations seemed high in the Laurel Highlands and elsewhere in Pennsylvania (RM, RCL). One or 2 pairs of Dickcissels were at a Washington, TN site for the 6th consecutive year (RK), and 3 were found in Adams, PA 24 Jun (PR). A Western Meadowlark first found at Trauger, Westmoreland, PA this spring remained there at least through 12 Jul (m. ob.); another appeared near Rebersburg, Centre, PA from 21 Jul through the end of the period {fide EZ). A Red Crossbill lingered at a bird feeder at Blue Ridge, Fannin, GA through 17 Jun (JD); small numbers were found on Roan Mt., TN during the summer (RK, AT), and a flock of over 75 was seen across the state line on Roan Mt., NC 30 Jun (WF, BO, MW); farther n., 2 were an unexpected find at Camp Michaux, Cumberland, PA 25 Jun (DHf). Considering the scarcity of Pine Siskins during the preceding winter and spring, surprising numbers of summering birds were reported from scattered sites across Pennsylvania; a female with a brood patch was banded at Athens, WV in Jul (JM), and a few summered as far s. as Roan Mt., TN (RK, AT). Contributors and cited observers: Carole Babyak, Michael Bell, Giff Beaton, Ken Behrens, Daniel Brauning, George H. Breiding (GHB), James Brooks, Kevin Calhoon, Ron Canterbury, Ben Coulter, Dave Darney (DDr), David G. Davis, Barbara Dean, Tom Dick, Jan Douglas, Jeanette Esker, John Fedak, Wayne Forsythe, Dot Freeman, Kevin Georg, Candy Gonzalez, Ted Grisez, Bob Grubbs, Paul Hess, Margaret Higbee, David Hochadel (DH), Audrey Hoff, Ron Hoff, Deuane Hoffman (DHf), Marjorie Keatley, Mark King (MKi), Rick Knight, Carroll Labarthe, Allen Lamer, YuLee Lamer, Robert C. Leberman, Ronald F. Leberman, Bob Machesney, Jerry McWilliams (JMc), Jim Meyer, Don Miller, Gene Morton, Robert Mulvihill, Dollyann Myers, Chuck Neel (CNe), Clare Nicolls, John Northeimer, Bob Olthoff, Jeff Payne (JPa), Jim Phillips, Fran Pope, Frank Renfrow, Geoff Robinson, Peter Robinson, JoAnne & Larry Routledge, John Salvetti, Ron Selvey (RSe), Richard Shelling (RSh), Randy Stringer (RSt), Allan Trendy, Neil Troyer, Betty Wampler, Marilyn Westphal, David Wilton, Debra Yovanovich, Eugene Zielinski. ^ Western Great Lakes Peder H. Svingen 2602 East 4th Street Duluth, Minnesota 55812 (psvingen@d. umn.edu) The Region was mostly cool and wet in early June, then generally hot and dry the rest of the period. During a brief respite from the heat in early July, temperatures dipped as low as 27 degrees Fahrenheit in northeastern Minnesota, and frost brushed across Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. Pointe Mouillee managed the Leed Unit for fall shorebird migration, attracting 2 Reeves and creating the best habitat Michigan has enjoyed in years. Twenty-one shorebird species were recorded there 29 July, probably an all-time high for the Wolverine State in sum- mer. Northern Hawk Owl, Eurasian Collared- Dove, White-eyed Vireo, and Yellow-throated Volume 55 {2001), Number 4 435 Warbler nested in Minnesota, while Wisconsin garnered most of the rarities, including Swallow-tailed Kite, Black-headed Gull, Groove-billed Ani, and Scissor-tailed Flycatcher. Abbreviations; Big Stone (Big Stone N.W.R., Big Stone and Lac Qui Parle, MN); Crex Meadows (Crex Meadows W.M.A., Burnett, Wl); D.N.R. (Department of Natural Resources); M.B.R.C. (Michigan Bird Records Committee); M.C.G.I. (Milwaukee Coast Guard Impoundment, WI); Murphy-Hanrehan ( Murphy- Hanrehan Regional Park, Dakota and Scott, MN); p.a. (pending acceptance); Pte. Mouillee (Pointe Mouillee State Game Area, Monroe, MI); Shiawassee (Shiawassee N.W.R., Saginaw, MI); W.B.R.C. (Wisconsin Bird Records Committee); W.P.B.O. ( Whitefish Point Bird Observatory, Chippewa, MI). LOONS THROUGH IBISES Migrant Red-throated Loons included singles at W.P.B.O. (MPe, GRU) and Presque Isle, MI (WNG) 2 Jun; more difficult to characterize were 4 in alternate plumage at Duluth, MN 8 Jul (SW). Virtually extirpated as a Minnesota breeding species, 2 Horned Grebes in Kittson 3 Jun (PHS) were probably late migrants, likewise one in Alpena, MI 1 Jun (WNG). Wisconsin’s 27 Red-necked Grebes in Winnebago 17 Jun (TZ) and Michigan’s 47 near Hessel, Mackinac 1 Jul (WNG) were exceptional counts for mid-sum- mer. Michigan had 3 American White Pelicans on Arcadia L., Manistee 1-5 Jun (KW, RB, JS) and one at Shiawassee 18 Jul (BG, CSz). Minnesota and Michigan each had single Snowy Egrets in Jun, but Wisconsin cornered the market with 3 at Green Bay all summer (JH) , one at M.C.G.I. 31 Jul (JI), and one in Dodge (TW). Single Little Blue Herons graced Outagamie, WI 24 Jun (BSm) and Washtenaw, MI 25-26 Jun (HP, m. ob.). Except for 36 in Winnebago, WI 15 Jul (TZ), Cattle Egrets were scarce in all three states. Most unusual of 3 Minnesota Yellow-crowned Night-Heron records was a county first at Janesville S.T.P., Waseca 3 Jul (RBJ); an imm. at M.C.G.I. 31 Jul (JI) was the only other Regional report. Still casual but recently annual in Minnesota, a White-faced Ibis was photographed in Mower 19 Jun (JEM, RNS et al.). WATERFOWL THROUGH RAILS Providing only the 3rd summer record for Minnesota was an ad. Ross’s Goose near L. Lillian, Kandiyohi 27 Jun (RAE). A pair of well- documented Tundra Swans near Oslo, Marshall 15 Jun (EEF) piqued interest in Minnesota. Minnesota D.N.R. reported Blue-winged Teal down 24% from last year and 39% below the long-term average. A male Cinnamon Teal near Ortonville, Big Stone, MN 3-4 Jun (RJS et al.) was an exceptional summer occurrence. Even more unexpected was the female Harlequin Duck in Michigan at Ludington, Mason 3 Jun (JH). Three White- winged Scoters were late migrants at W.P.B.O. 2 Jun (MPe, GRU). Furnishing the 7th summer record for Wisconsin was a Long-tailed Duck in Door 9 Jun (JSc). Unexpected in ne. Minnesota, an ad. Swainson’s Hawk provided a first county record for Carlton 9 Jun (TAT). Rough-legged Hawks at W.P.B.O. 15 Jun (LD) and Pennington, MN 29 Jun (RBJ) were probably late migrants; a few have summered in nw. Minnesota in the past. A Swallow-tailed Kite seen briefly at M.C.G.I. 23 Jun (JI) will be reviewed by the W.B.R.C. A Golden Eagle in Waukesha 17 Jun (JB, TRP) would provide Wisconsin’s first Jun record (p.a.). Even one Merlin nest in Minnesota’s Twin Cities would be amazing, but no fewer than 8 young were fledged by four breeding pairs this season (MJS). Providing one of Minnesota’s few well-documented summer records was the Prairie Falcon near Rothsay W.M.A., Wilkin 9 Jun (SD, CRG, RG). Spruce Grouse are rarely ever seen in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, so Jun reports of one to 2 in Crawford (fide JD), Ogemaw (JHi, RR), and Oscoda (JD, PH) were noteworthy. Lek counts of Sharp-tailed Grouse declined sharply in Minnesota (D.N.R.), down 43% in the e.-cen. region and 24% in the nw.; Michigan’s sole report was from Chippewa (JG). Two Yellow Rails near Trout Lake, Chippewa 9 Jun (AMB) furnished Michigan’s only report. SHOREBIRDS Possibly summering were 4 Black-bellied Plovers at Pte. Mouillee 30 Jun (AMB), but 2 in Alpena, MI 18-19 Jun (WNG) and one at Pte. Mouillee 24 Jun (AMB) were most likely linger- ing spring migrants. An ad. WUson’s Plover at W.P.B.O. 15 Jun (p.a. TS) would be Michigan’s 3rd; there was a well-documented Wilson’s at this same location in mid-May, which will be treated separately by the M.B.R.C. High water and storms foiled nesting by Piping Plovers at the traditional Minnesota site in Lake of the Woods; intriguing was an ad. with 2 imms. in Big Stone 28 Jul (PCC). A Piping Plover nest in Marinette was the first documented along Wisconsin’s Green Bay shoreline since 1941 (TE); elsewhere on the Great Lakes, 31 breeding pairs (30 of these in Michigan) fledged a total of 71 young {fide AMB). The 260 Killdeer at Big Stone 20 Jul (BEO) was Minnesota’s 3rd highest count. Two American Avocets summered in Clay, MN (TAT, ADS), and all 3 states had migrants in Jul; the earliest were 4 in Vernon, Wl 3 Jul (RZ), 3 in Van Buren, MI 4 Jul (WMB), one in Berrien, MI 4 Jul, and 2 in Beloit, WI 7 Jul (DC). Minnesota had 2-6 avocets in four additional locations, Wisconsin had one in Racine 20 Jul (EH), and 3 were at Pte. Mouillee 29 Jul (AMB). Peak yellowlegs counts included 68 Greaters at Big Stone 25 Jul (BEO) and 39 at Pte. Mouillee 20 Jul (AMB); Lessers peaked at 1 104 on 20 Jul and 654 on 29 Jul at Pte. Mouillee (AMB), and 716 at Big Stone 20 Jul (BEO). Fifteen Solitary Sandpipers were at Pte. Mouillee 29 Jul (AMB). Two Willets in Marshall lingered until 3 Jun (PHS), while one in Lyon 30 Jun (PE) was an exceptional mid-summer occurrence in Minnesota. Michigan had a flurry of early Jul reports, including 3 at Warren Dunes S.P., Berrien 4 Jul (JP), one in Ottawa 4 Jul (SS), 7 at New Buffalo, Berrien 1 Jul (DV), and 2 in St. Joseph, Berrien 8 Jul (AMB). Unusual for loca- tion and number was a group of 19 Marbled Godwits in Baraga, MI 23 Jul (JY). Ruddy Turnstones returned to Michigan 29 Jul, when 7 were at Pte. Mouillee (AMB). Minnesota and Michigan had the only Red Knots, one in Polk 3 Jun (PHS) and 4 in Alpena 4 Jun (KS), respectively. A Sanderling in Becker, MN 25 Jun (CRM) was possibly still north- bound, while 2 in Alpena, MI 5 Jul (WNG) were probably early fall migrants. In w.-cen. Minnesota, separate surveys in Lac Qui Parle and Big Stone found peaks of 947 Semipalmated Sandpipers 28 Jul (PCC) and 670 Leasts 20 Jul (BEO). Peeps were down in Michigan, though 505 Semipalmateds were at Pte. Mouillee 29 Jul (AMB). White-rumped Sandpiper is normally exceptional as an early fall migrant in the Region; one in Becker, MN 25 Jun (CRM) was probably northbound, but one in Dane 1 Jul (PA) and 2 in Vernon 3 Jul (RZ) were either record-early returnees or summering in Wisconsin. Also early or summering were single White-rumpeds in Berrien, MI 2 Jul (CG, JW), Pte. Mouillee 6-21 Jul (AMB, RB), and Marshall, MN 21 Jul (PHS). Pectoral Sandpipers peaked at 330 at Big Stone 25 Jul (BEO). An impressive 650 Dunlin at Pte. Mouillee 3 Jun (AC) was followed by a sum- mering individual 24 Jun-20 Jul (AMB). Stilt Sandpipers peaked when 229 were at Big Stone 20 Jul (BEO). Three Buff-breasted Sandpipers in Meeker 21 Jul (DMF) provided Minnesota’s 3rd earliest fall date. Never before have 2 Ruffs been seen together in Michigan; both were ad. females (Reeves) found by Byrne at Pte. Mouillee 12-20 Jul and 20-21 Jul. The Short-billed Dowitcher in Becker 24 Jun (PHS, PCC) was Minnesota’s earliest 436 North American Birds Western Great Lakes ever fall migrant; honors for high count went to Wisconsin, where 170 Short-billeds were in Dodge 7 Jul (DT), seconded by 80 at Pte. Mouillee on both 30 Jun and 29 Jul (AMB). Relatively early was a Long-billed Dowitcher at Pte. Mouillee 29 Jul (AMB). Wilson’s Phalarope was reported in 17 Minnesota counties, well above the average of 10 counties over the past decade; fall migrants included 83 in Big Stone 29 Jul (PHS). One to 2 Red-necked Phalaropes lin- gered to 6 Jun in Marshall, MN {fide BAB); the first returning fall migrant was at Pte. Mouillee 29 Jul (AMB). GULLS THROUGH WOODPECKERS Wisconsin’s 3 Laughing Gulls were along Lake Michigan, in Sheboygan (D&MB) and Racine (KD), both 15 Jun, and M.C.G.I. 20 Jul (BB). Michigan had 2 in Berrien — ^an ad. at St. Joseph 2 Jun (JG) and an imm. at New Buffalo 17 Jun (TS). Wisconsin had 2 Franklin’s Gulls along L. Michigan in early Jun (TW), plus one in Vernon 31 Jul (FZL). Four Little Gulls drifted between Manitowoc and Sheboygan 5-9 Jun (m. ob.); elsewhere in Wisconsin were one in Racine 17-18 Jul (KD) and 2 near Algoma, Kewaunee 22 Jul (TU). A Black-headed Gull at Algoma 22 Jul (p.a. TU) provided Wisconsin with its 4th summer record. An ad. Lesser Black-backed Gull was in Kewaunee,Wl 29 Jul (J&KS). Eurasian Collared-Doves nested for the first time in Minnesota at Caledonia, Houston (PHS et al.); the first of three broods fledged 4 Jul (KAK). Elsewhere in Minnesota, one from May remained in Roseau (PHS, PCC), and another was documented in Renville 3 Jul (RBJ). Wisconsin had three reports, including in Manitowoc through 22 Jun, where a nesting attempt failed (CS), one in Ozaukee 21-25 Jul (JSo, TW), and another still in Oconto (J&KS), where present since May 2000. Most exciting was the Groove-billed Ani at Green Bay 30 Jun-3 Jul (BL, JH). This was Wisconsin’s 15th ani but the first in summer; it appeared to be in good condition and was observed actively feed- ing. Following last winter’s record-high invasion of 190 Northern Hawk Owls into Minnesota, it was not surprising that breeding occurred, but the discovery of four nests {Koochiching, Lake, and two in Cook) was unprecedented. In addi- tion, ads. were found feeding recently fledged young elsewhere in Lake 20 Jun (JWL) and in St. Louis 10 Jul (BAB). The final total of 394 Great Gray Owls during the 2000-2001 irrup- tion was also an all-time Minnesota high, exceeding the 342 in 1995-1996. Michigan still lacks confirmed nesting records, so Great Grays in Schoolcraft 22 Jul (DE) and Chippewa during Jul (MM) were intriguing. Continuing their recent upswing in Minnesota, 18-i- Short-eared Owls were found in eight counties; Michigan had singles in Hillsdale (JR) and Benzie (MJ, PL). The only reports of Three-toed Woodpecker were from Spruce Road in Lake, MN {fide KRE). Michigan had one Black- backed Woodpecker near Trout L., Chippewa 17 Jun (JHa). FLYCATCHERS THROUGH MOCKINGBIRDS Willow Flycatchers in Chippewa and Mackinac were unusual for Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (TWh). Ani searchers in Wisconsin received a bonus when a Scissor-tailed Flycatcher lingered in Door 30 Jun-3 Jul (T&CS, JH); typically ethereal was one seen for a few hours at Trempeleau N.W.R., WI 12 Jun (LM). Loggerhead Shrikes were in nine Minnesota counties, close to the recent average; far from average was the successful breeding pair in Kalamazoo, MI (DP). One in Monroe 3-4 Jun was also noteworthy for Michigan (PCC, m. ob.). Providing Minnesota’s 2nd breeding record, 4 young White-eyed Vireos (no cow- birds!) fledged from a nest at Rice Lake S.P., Steele (AEB). In Michigan, only 3-4 singing White-eyeds were at Lost Nations State Game Area, Hillsdale (JR); others included one to 2 in Lenawee (SS) and singles in Barry (WMS) and Cass (WMB). Minnesota and Wisconsin each had one Carolina Wren, in Hennepin 6 Jul-I- (PG) and all season in Jefferson (KEH), respectively; com- pletely unexpected was one banded in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula at Vermillion, Chippewa 29 Jun {ftde JM). If accepted by the M.B.R.C., a Bewick’s Wren in Saginaw 16 Jun (MH) would be Michigan’s first since 1993. Minnesota had Northern Mockingbirds in Cook 17 Jun (JWL et al.) and Olmsted 28-30 Jun (JGL et al.). Wisconsin’s only report came from Door (BS), but mockingbirds were in nine Michigan counties. WARBLERS THROUGH FINCHES A singing Northern Parula at L. Bronson, MN 10 Jun (PHS) was a Kittson first. Still casual in Minnesota, a pair of Yellow-throated Warblers found 11 Jun (JMa, TAT) provided that state’s 2nd nesting record when 3 young fledged in Acacia Cemetery, Dakota 30 Jun (BAF). Yellow- throated Warblers were also at Wyalusing S.P., WI, and Allegan and Berrien in Michigan. Michigan (D.N.R.) counted 1085 singing male Kirtland’s Warblers, the most since surveys began in 1951! This was also the first time that more than 1000 males were reported. Wisconsin had Prairie Warblers in Jefferson (m. ob.), Ozaukee {ftde BB), and Waukesha (MP). Unusual in nw. Wisconsin was a territorial Palm Warbler in Burnett 9 Jun (TKS). A female Blackpoll Warbler at W.P.B.O. 2 Jun was late (MPe, GRU), but an inexplicably tardy male at the same location 21 Jun was probably a non- breeder (LD). On the periphery of its Minnesota breeding range was a singing male Cerulean Warbler at Tamarac N.W.R., Becker through 29 Jun {ftde BAB); a count of 15 pairs at Murphy-Hanrehan (BAF) was an encouraging tally. A Worm-eat- ing Warbler in Anoka, MN 28 Jul (CF) was apparently an early fall migrant, while Michigan’s only report was at Warren Dunes S.P., Berrien 9 Jun (KM, JW). Unpaired in Minnesota were singing Kentucky Warblers at Nelson Fen, Olmsted through 17 Jun (JDu et al.) and Murphy-Hanrehan (BAF). One Kentucky spent the summer in Michigan’s Hillsdale (JR), and another was in Jackson 4 Jun (LG). An unprecedented 35 territorial Hooded Warblers were at Murphy-Hanrehan; five of seven nests checked were parasitized by cow- birds (BAF). Exceptional for Michigan’s Upper Peninsula was the imm. female Hooded Warbler banded at Vermillion, Chippewa 14 Jun {fide JM). Minnesota mustered single Yellow-breasted Chats in Winona 13-15 Jun (CB, FZL) and Dakota 29 Jun (TAT), but no fewer than 6 were in Dane, WI 17 Jun (PA). A male Summer Tanager in Hillsdale 1 Jun- 22 Jul (JR, AMB) was at the same Michigan location where a pair was found last summer. Away from its Minnesota breeding range and possibly migrating was the Lark Sparrow at Blue Mounds S.P., Rock 28 Jul (TAT). Henslow’s Sparrow fared well in Minnesota, with reports from five s. counties; others were unusually far n. in Clay (RJS et al.), Douglas (E&JE), and Crow Wing (WEN). Nelson’s Sharp-tailed Sparrows were in expected Minnesota and Wisconsin (Crex Meadows) locations, but one banded at Vermillion, Chippewa 14 Jun {fide JM) was Michigan’s first since fall 1998 and 16th overall (p.a.). Red Crossbills nested in Newaygo, MI, where 2 ads. with 4 young were found 15 Jun (SR). Rarely noted in Minnesota during Jun, White-winged Crossbills were at the Sax-Zim bog, St. Louis (m. ob.). CORRIGENDA Delete Veery in Madison, WI 12-23 Dec 2000 {N. A. B. 55: 174). The Cape May Warbler 2 Nov 2000 was in Buffalo, not Portage, WI {N. A. B. 55: 56). Great-tailed Grackles established territories and built nests at Grovers L. W.M.A. near the lowa/Minnesota border in 1998, but neither eggs nor young were documented; change “nesting” to “probable nesting” {N. A. B. 52: 334). Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 437 Cited observers (subregional editors in bold- face): Philip Ashman, Al E. Batt, Betsy A. Beneke, Chris Benson, John Bielefeldt, Brian Boldt, Walter M. Booth, David & Margaret Brasser, Rick Brigham, Adam M. Byrne (Michigan), Allen Chartier, Daryl Christensen, Philip C. Chu, Lathe Claflin, Karl David, Jim Dawe, Louie Dombroski, Sam Dotzler, Joel Dunnette (JDu), Kim R. Eckert, Eddy & Judy Edwards, Paul Egeland, Dan Engel, Tom Erdman, Ron A. Erpelding, Bruce A. Fall, Dan M. Floren, Cole Foster, Eve E. Freeberg, Peter Getman, Colin R. Gjervold, Rick Gjervold, Bob Grefe, Cory Gregory, Jim Granlund, William N. Grigg, Karen Etter Hale, John Hamel (JHa), Jan Hansen (Wisconsin), Jim Hinson (JHi), Eric Howe, Phil Huber, Mark Hubinger, John Idzikowski, Robert B. Janssen, Matt Johnstone, Karla A. Kinstler, Pat Lederle, Fred Z. Lesher, James W. Lind, Jon G. Little, Brian Love, Craig R. Mandel, Jim Mattsson (JMa), Lisa McCurdy, Kip Miller, Mark Moeller, John E. Morrison, Jeannette Morss, Warren E. Nelson, Bridget E. Olson, Jane Pederson, Teri Beth Peters, Mark Peterson, Mike Petrucha (MPe), Dave Powell, Hein Prinsen, Jack Reinoehl, Stephen Ross, Ray Rustem, Steve Santner, Keith Saylor, John Schillinglaw (JSc), Roger J. Schroeder, Winslow M. Shaughnessy, Jack Slocum, Richard N. Smaby, Tim Smart, Bob Smidt (BSm), Andrew D. Smith, Jerry & Karen Smith, Joan Sommer (JSo), Chuck Sontag, Thomas K. Soulen, Betty Stover, Peder H. Svingen, Tom & Carol Sykes, Carolyn Szaroletta (CSz), Daryl Tessen, Tom A. Tustison, Gerald R. Urquhart, Tom Uttech, Dave Vinnedge, Keith Westphal, Tom Wheeker (TWh), Terry P. Wiens (Minnesota), Scott Wolff, Thomas Wood, Jon Wuepper, Joseph Youngman, Ric Zarwell, and Tom Ziebell. An additional 219 observers could not be thanked individually. a Middlewestern Prairie Kenneth J. Brock 1265 Red Bud Drive Chesterton, Indiana 46304 (kebrock@ucs.indiana.edu) After mid-June, the Region experienced warm, dry conditions. However, residual moisture from heavy spring precipitation pro- vided sufficient water to keep most wetlands hydrated and generate lush upland vegetation. In Illinois, Doug Stotz believed that it was a good breeding season, and in Iowa James Dinsmore suggested that both wetland and grassland species did well. Most correspon- dents concurred with these assessments. The breeding season’s major downside occurred along the major river systems, where high water levels, especially in June, interfered with species that nest on or adjacent to the rivers. More positively, a spate of first nesting records was established and a surprisingly plump list of vagrants was recorded. Abbreviations: Carl. L. (Carlyle L., IL), G.L.N.T.C. (Great Lakes Naval Training Center, Lake, IL), H.B.S.P. (Headlands Beach S.P., OH), L. Cal. (L. Calumet, Chicago); R.E.D.A. (Riverlands Environmental Demonstration Area, St. Charles, MO), S.C.R. (Squaw Creek N.W.R., MO); Spfld. (Springfield, IL). LOONS THROUGH IBIS For the 2nd time in seven years, a summer Pacific Loon appeared in Iowa. This bird occu- pied a sandpit s. of Iowa City 18 Jun-5 Jul (tMCD, tCE, tJLF, ph. THK). It was a good summer for Pied-billed Grebes, with an above- average number of nesting reports across the Region. Iowa’s 2nd confirmed Red-necked Grebe nesting record was logged 4 Jul, when two nests were found at Cheever L. in Emmet (LAS). Peak nest counts for Double-crested Cormorants included 66 at L. Renwick, IL 28 Mar (AA) and 39 at Coralville Res., lA 26 Jun (MCD). Also noteworthy was a Double-crest- ed nest at Clarence Cannon N.W.R., MO 20 Jul (SK). Great Blue Herons received few comments; the largest reported colony consisted of 482 nests at Clear L. in Mason, IL (RBj). As expect- ed, Great Egrets were reported nesting in Illinois and Kentucky; peak counts of non- breeders included 500 birds at Horseshoe L., IL 15 Jul (EH), 211 in Jackson, lA 5 Jul (JLF), and 120 at Ottawa N.W.R., OH 1 Jul (EP et al.). Nesting Snowy Egrets were reported at the Sikeston, MO rookery, where 50 nests were counted (JWi). The largest concentration of Snowy Egrets consisted of 1 10 birds at birds at Horseshoe L., IL 15 Jul (EH). It was a most impressive breeding season for Little Blue Herons, with nesting reported in Illinois, Kentucky, and Missouri. The largest colony was at the Sikeston, MO rookery, where 150 nests were counted (JWi), but this species nest- ed as far n. as L. Cal., where two nests were found 14 Jul (WJM). Peak Little Blue counts included an impressive 1500 at a roost near 438 North American Birds Western Great Lakes — Middlewestern Prairie This alternated-plumaged Curlew Sandpiper was present at Great Lakes Naval Training Center, Illinois 1 0-1 3 June and was enjoyed by many. Photograph by David B. Johnson. Lambert Field, St. Louis on 16 Jul (Jerry Farm) and 391 at Horseshoe L., IL 15 Jul (DKa). Adding flavor to the season was an ad. Tricolored Heron at L. Cal. 17 Jun (fWJM, JA). Breeding Cattle Egrets were reported only at L. Barkley, KY, where several hundred pairs nested (BPB) and in the colony behind the Sikeston, MO Pizza Hut, which yielded 100 nests (JWi). Black-crowned Night-Herons nested in Illinois, Missouri, and Ohio. The largest colony, among several Illinois breeding sites, was at L. Cal., where some 300-f- birds (including fledglings) were noted (WJM). In Ohio, 9 nesting Black-crowneds were reported along Mill Creek in Hamilton 9 Jun (Tom Uhlman). WATERFOWL THROUGH CRANES As has been the case in recent years, small numbers of nonbreeding Snow Geese sum- mered in the Region. This summer one to 7 Snows were found in seven Iowa counties, and 5 more were reported in Illinois. The estab- lishment of reintroduced Trumpeter Swans as a breeding species continued this summer, with a report of nine “wild” nests in Iowa (BE). Mute Swans, which are well established as breeders in the Chicago area, appear to be expanding. This summer, three broods were reported in c. Illinois (HDB, VK) and Kentucky’s first apparent “natural” nesting occurred in Muhlenberg, where a pair with one cygnet were noted (BPB, PM, WR). A few “migrant” dabblers lingered to breed in the Region. The most noteworthy of these includ- ed a female Gadwall with 9 young at L. Cal. 1 5 Jul (fWJM, GW), several broods of Northern Shovelers at Union Slough N.W.R. and Maynard Reece W.M.A., lA (MCK), and a pair of Green-winged Teal with young in Emmet, lA 14 Jul (LAS). Five species of nonbreeding bay ducks were also reported. The most unusual of these was a female Greater Scaup at Pipe Creek W.M.A., OH 11 Jun (RHn, SA). A tardy male Bufflehead lingered at Spring Run W.M.A., lA until 16 Jun (LAS). Evidence of nesting Hooded Mergansers came from every state except Ohio, suggesting that this species had a better-than-average nesting season. Breeding Ospreys strengthened their foothold in the Region, with nesting reported in every state except Kentucky. Mississippi Kites followed a similar pattern. Nesting was reported at traditional sites in Illinois, Indiana, and Iowa; expansion into w. Missouri also occurred, as attested by a nest found near Joplin (Chet and Karen Lang). Single extralimital nonbreeding Mississippi Kites were seen in Ohio, KY 13 Jul (DR) and near Kansas City, MO (SMc). A most surprising find was a Swallow-tailed Kite, discovered at the Central Kentucky W.M. A., Madison, KY 31 Jul (tMBm, CLe). This bird, which provided that state’s 2nd record since 1900, reportedly kettled upward and departed northward. Bald Eagles experienced another good breeding season, with reports of nesting success from every state except Kentucky. The Region’s only reported Northern Harrier nesting occurred in Muhlenberg, KY, where several pairs were observed (MM et al.). An astonish- ingly early Merlin at Conneaut Harbor, OH 27 Jul (KMe), preceded that state’s earliest fall record by almost a month. King Rail reports were up this summer, with one in Adair, MO 6 Jun (SK), a single at Killdeer Plains W.M. A., OH 8-9 Jun (Troy Shiveley et al.), a pair and 5 young in McHenry, IL 15 Jul (BS), and one at Clarence Cannon N.W.R., MO 20 & 22 Jul (SK, JM, CM). Nesting Virginia Rails were observed at L. Cal., where young were found 15 Jul (WJM). Summer Virginia Rail reports also came from nine other Illinois and three Iowa locations, suggesting a good breeding season for this species. Soras were even more widely distributed; the most impressive single report consisted of four nests, each containing 1 1—12 eggs, at Streets L., McHenry, IL 4 Jun (BS). Once again, multiple Common Moorhens were reported in all six states, suggesting that their population is flourishing once again. The summer expansion of Sandhill Cranes in the Region continued, with reports from every state except Kentucky. Two ads. and 2 young were reported in Williams, OH 30 Jun and 7 Jul (Jeff Grahmeier et al.), suggesting the pos- sibility of nesting in the nw. corner of the state. Sandhills also nested at 10 n. Illinois locations. SHOREBIRDS Reports of early southbound plovers included a Black-belled in Union, KY 31 Jul (BPB), an American Golden-Plover in Dickinson, lA 30 Jun (LAS), and a Semipalmated at Clinton L., IL 4 Jul (RTC). The nesting efforts of Iowa’s Piping Plovers were unimpressive, with only three pairs at the MidAmerican Energy Ponds 14-15 Jun (JJD) and a nest with four eggs at Port Neal, which was ultimately abandoned ( BFH ) . The only migrant Piping Plover was an ad. that tarried on the Indiana lakefront at Miller Beach 20, 21, & 23 Jul (JMc, MT, BG et al.). Except for the absence of breeding reports, it was a typical summer for Black- necked Stilts. A vagrant stilt was in Fayette, KY 3-4 Jun (JWm), two pairs were at Clinton L., IL 4 Jul (tRTC, HPa), and singles were at five locations in Missouri (TG, BB). American Avocets were scarce, with one to 9 birds reported in each of the four n. states. Willets Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 439 Readers of this journal are no doubt all too familiar with the expansion of gull numbers, especially Ring-billed Gulls, over recent decades. This summer, the Middlewestern Prairie Region may have experienced the first step in a further expansion of the Ring- billed Gull population. In Des Plaines, Cook, IL, Ring-billeds established a nest- ing colony atop the flat roof of a building. Although the nests were not visible, on 1 }ul some 500 ads. flushed from the rooftop and about 120 recently fledged young were seen around the building and at a nearby retention pond. Several dead juvs. were also found adjacent to the building. Subsequent observations revealed many birds too young to fly (AA, DJ, CN). Clearly, if this new nesting con- cept catches on with the Ring-billed Gull population in general, Lams delawarensis may ultimately earn the name “Urban Gull.” appeared in good numbers this summer, with peak counts of 40 at Michigan City Harbor, IN 30 Jul (BG) and an impressive inland tally of 28 at Saylorville Res., lA 2 Jul (SR, fide SJD). More Upland Sandpipers than normal were reported: observations came from 12 Iowa counties, eight Illinois locations, four Indiana sites, and two Ohio counties. In addition. Uplands were deemed plentiful in w. Missouri (JWi). It was a good summer for Whimbrel: 6 were reported along the Indiana lakeffont, 3 were seen on the Ohio lakeffont, including a lingering bird at Medusa Marsh 22—30 Jul ( JHd, BW), and a sin- gle was at G.L.N.T.C. 30 Jul (AA, CN). A remarkably early Hudsonian Godwit appeared in Fremont, lA 19 Jul (JLF) to provide that state’s first Jul record and the earliest fall migrant ever recorded in the Region. Interesting reports of the smaller shorebirds included a late spring Sanderling in Union, KY 2 Jun (BPB), a count of 210 Semipalmated Sandpipers at Sheldon Marsh W.M.A., OH 30 Jul (VF), a late White-rumped Sandpiper at Mississinewa Res., IN 14 Jun (Haw, SSc), 2 extremely tardy Pectoral Sandpipers in Sangamon, IL 14 Jun (HDB), a record-early Stilt Sandpiper at Grand Kankakee Marsh, IN 4 Jul (KJB), 339 Short-billed Dowitchers at Sheldon Marsh, OH 22 Jul (JHa, BW), and 2 rather early Long-billed Dowitchers at Port Neal, lA 21 Jul (BFH). In the rare sho rebird category, an alternate-plumaged Curlew Sandpiper at G.L.N.T.C. 10-12 Jun (SH, CF, ph., m. ob.) provided a season highlight for many observers. Encouragingly, migrant Wilson’s Phalaropes were reported in every state except Kentucky, with juvs. observed at Maynard Reece W.M.A., lA 1 Jul (LAS) and nesting suspected at Eagle Lake W.M.A., lA (WE). In contrast. Red-necked Phalaropes were scarce; the only reports involved 2 at Secret L., lA 19 Jul (JLE) and one at L. Chau. 27 Jul (RTC). GULLS THROUGH TERNS Laughing Gulls were less widespread that nor- mal, with reports from only three states: four in lUinois, three in Ohio, and one in Iowa. As expected, small numbers of Caspian Terns were reported in most states; however, breeding was not reported. Peak counts includ- ed 47 at Michigan City Harbor, IN 28 Jul (JKC et al.) and 25 at G.L.N.T.C. 14 Jun (KAM, UG). In Jun, the small Common Tern colony at G.L.N.T.C. had 20 active nests; however, they were subsequently destroyed by predators (DD). This species also nested at the two estab- lished colonies on the Ohio lakefront {fide RHn). Perhaps the season’s single most remark- able report consisted of an ad. Arctic Tern that arrived at the G.L.N.T.C. Common Tern colony 16 Jun, then settled in and remained through the period (fSC, AA, CF, ph., m. ob.). As most previous Arctic Tern occurrences in the Region have been all too brief, this lingering bird pro- vided an unprecedented opportunity for bird- ers in the Region. Interestingly, on 16 Jun the bird was observed attempting to copulate with a Common Tern (SC). Although breeding was not reported, the expected small groups of Forster’s Terns appeared across the Region; the peak tally was 30 at Hallett’s Quarry, lA 2 Jun (WO). Least Terns were quite active in the Region this summer. High water in the lower Ohio R. inhibited nesting at many traditional sites along the river (BPB). As a result, many of the birds that normally nest on the major rivers apparently dispersed inland, providing increased nesting at nonriparian locations and a host of extralimital occurrences. Eighty Least Terns and 57 nests — both record highs — ^were counted at the Gibson, IN, colony 22 Jun; unfortunately, severe predation reduced the number of fledglings to 2-5 (JSC). At the Iowa MidAmerican Energy Ponds, where Least Terns regularly nest, seven nests were observed, which is the highest number since 1991 (JJD). Reports of out-of-range nonbreeders included 3 at R.E.D.A. 2—17 Jun (DB, et al.), 2 in Alexander, IL 9 Jun (KAM), a single in Saline, MO 13 Jun (JL, JWi), one at G.L.N.T.C. 27 Jun (SH), an ad. at Spfld. 5 Jul (HDB), 15 at Swan Lake N.W.R., MO 11 Jul (SK), and 3 at Horseshoe L., IL 21 Jun (KAM, CLi). Most encouragingly, a total of 17 Black Tern nests was found at three loca- tions in McHenry and Lake Counties in ne. Illinois (BS). Two Black Tern nests were also reported in Dickinson, lA (LAS). DOVES THROUGH VIREOS In addition to numerous birds at established sites across the Region, European Collared- Doves appeared at new locations in Illinois, Indiana, and Kentucky. Iowa’s first CoUared- Dove nest, which contained 2 young, was recorded 17 Jul in Kossuth (HPe, THK, ph.). In the Chicago area, some 22 Monk Parakeets nests were reported at five locations (AA, DSt, WJM). Reports of nesting Short-eared Owls increased this summer, with an ad. and young at Prairie Ridge W.M.A., IL 8 Jun (LH, SSi) and an ad. and 2 young in Seneca, OH 5 Jun (TBa). Although the count of 9 Chuck-wiU’s-widows in Flamilton, IL 18 May (LSy), constitutes one of the better tallies reported in recent years, it pales compared to the 141 male Whip-poor- wills logged in Sand Ridge State Forest, IL 26 Jun (RBj). At least eight Yellow-bellied Sapsucker nests were found in e. Ohio (TL, LRo) and two in Iowa (KH, fide JV, DKo). Elsewhere, an impressive 5 sapsuckers remained in ]o Daviess, IL in Jun (DW). An Olive-sided Flycatcher at Swan Lake N.W.R., MO (HL) 19 Jul was remarkably early. Following a decade-long search, Indiana’s first Alder Flycatcher breeding was confirmed 8 Jun at Pigeon River W.M.A. (ne. Indiana), when two nests were found; one nest failed and the other yielded 3 young (LAC, DGo). An impres- sive count of 20 Willow Flycatchers was record- ed in Spring Creek 'V^alley Forest Preserve, Cook, IL 20 Jun (AA et al.); this site also produced 3 Least Flycatchers on that date (AA et al.). Western Kingbirds occupied their usual range in Iowa and Missouri, and nesting was con- firmed at three locations in Illinois (HDB, KAM, DKa). The 2nd Illinois Scissor- tailed Flycatcher breeding record occurred in sw. Union, where a nest was observed 9 May— 15 Jul (SB, m. ob.). An out-of-range Scissor-tailed was seen at Fort Campbell, KY 30 Jun (DM). Bell’s Vireo reports surged in Ohio, where birds were located at five sites (two is more typical) in four sw. counties (m. ob). SWALLOWS THROUGH FINCHES The largest swallow concentrations were com- prised of Bank Swallows, with 2000 at Coralville Res., lA 27 Jul (THK) and 1500 at Forney L., lA 5 Jul (BKP, LJP). Observers in both Illinois and Indiana noted an expansion of Cliff Swallows this summer. A pair of Red- breasted Nuthatches with young was observed in Flocking, OH 4 Jun and in Wolf, KY 1 Jul 440 North American Birds Middlewestern Prairie (FR); both sites have become established nest- ing areas for this species. More unexpected was a single Red-breasted Nuthatch at Illinois Beach S.R 14 Jul (VK, et al.). Lightning really does strike twice at the same place. At Illinois Beach S.R, site of last year’s Red-cockaded Woodpecker visit, a Brown-headed Nuthatch was discovered 1 1 Jul and remained through the summer season (BS, fWS, ph., m. ob.). This bird was photographed and if accepted will become the first confirmed Illinois record. In Indiana Don Gorney’s unrelenting search for Brown Creepers yielded a hefty 51 birds this summer. The only successful Bewick’s Wren nesting occurred in Adams, IL, where a pair and two young were observed 20 Jun (KAM). An unmated Bewick’s Wren spent early Jun in Warren, KY but failed to attract a mate (BPB, MH et al.). It was apparently a fine season for Sedge Wrens as breeders, or probable breeders, were reported in all six states. A very tardy Gray-cheeked Thrush was seen in McHenry, IL 14 Jun (KAM). A record-late Tennessee Warbler was observed at Michigan City Harbor 25 Jun (DP). Magnolia Warblers were reported from an impressive 23 sites in Lake, OH (JP). Some interesting warblers were discovered in s-cen. Indiana. Five singing Black-throated Greens were found in Hoosier National Forest 8-23 Jun (LSt, BM) and 2 male Blackburnians were found at different Monroe locations 8 & 18-19 Jun (tLSt, ph.). A record-early Bay-breasted Warbler was seen near Iowa City 29 Jul (JLF). The Region’s only Swainson’s Warbler reports came from Missouri, where this species was recorded in Oregon, Taney, and New Madrid (JWi). The presence of a male Mourning Warbler in Lowden-Miller S.F. 7 Jul (DSt) sug- gests the possibility of breeding at that site. A Clay-colored Sparrow mist-netted in Hancock, lA 1 Jun may have been a late migrant; however, this location is only one county away from the 1999 nesting site. Another Clay-col- ored remained at Oak Openings Park, OH through 10 Jun without evidence of nesting (m. ob.). A major cause for optimism came from Fort Campbell, KY, where researchers discov- ered small numbers of Bachman’s Sparrows at that installation (Daniel Moss, fide BPB). This constitutes the Region’s first summer report of this species, outside Missouri, in more than a decade. Some 25 Lark Sparrows were counted at the Savannah Army Depot, IL in Jun (DW), and an out-of-range bird appeared at Grand Kankakee Marsh, IN 28 Jul (JKC et al.). Several mind-boggling Grasshopper Sparrow counts attest to the abundance of this species during this breeding season. The peak tally was 269 in the Savannah Army Depot, IL in Jun (DW), but other excellent counts included 63 in Urbana, IL 17 Jun (RTC) and 38 at the Hawthorne Mine, Greene and Sullivan, IN 25 Jul (LSt). Henslow’s Sparrows were also reported in good numbers but were not quite as plentiful as last summer. Illinois’s first confirmed White-throated Sparrow nesting was logged in Chicago, where a pair and one or more fledglings were observed 30-31 Jul (tew, KW, DSt). Also quite extraor- dinary were an ad. White-crowned Sparrow in Chicago’s Olive Park 31 Jul (DSt) and a Harris’s Sparrow in Sioux, lA 16 Jun (KH,_fi^Grand Island Lincoln • Kirwin NWR» Manhattan < KANSAS j^Cheyenne Bottoms ►Topeka Quivira NWR Cimarron Nat Grassland OKLAHOMA Muskogee'i Washita NWR •Wichita Mountains NWR •Pol Sill Broken Bow Tishomingo Res., Joseph A. Grzybowski 71 5 Elmwood Drive Norman, Oklahoma 73072 (grzybow@aix1 .ucok.edu) As is typical of summer seasons on the Plains, this one was chiefly interesting for records of waterbirds, at least before many marshes and waterholes dried up. Vagrants from the Gulf coast wandered northward in limited numbers across the Region, with the exception of southeastern Oklahoma, which once again was inundated with southern waders. Although some species — such as White-faced Ibis, American Avocet, and Black- necked Stilt — appear to be doing well as nesters. Western and Eared Grebes have not fared as well. Other marsh and freshwater species, although present in variety, were quite localized at widespread locations. Whether from absence, heat, bugs, lack of pursuit, or otherwise, it was a less eventful sea- son for landbirds, though these are difficult data to interpret. Cave Swallows were much in the news: sightings this season suggest as yet undiscovered breeding within the Region. Abbreviations: Cheyenne Bottoms (Cheyenne Bottoms W.M.A., Barton, KS); Hackberry (Hackberry Flats W.M.A., Tillman, OK); L. McConaughy (Keith, NE); L. Ogallala (Keith, NE); Quivira (Quivira N.W.R., Stajford, KS); Rainwater Basin (pothole area in s.-cen. NE); Red Slough (Red Slough W.M.A., McCurtain, OK). Lefor, Ron E. Martin, Bob Murphy, Robert H. O’Connor, Katy L. Phelps, Karen Smith, Dan N. Svingen, Frederic Vanhove. SOUTH DAKOTA; Doug Backlund, Jocelyn L. Baker, Kevin Hachmeister, Bruce Harris, Michael M. Melius, Ricky D. Olson, Jeffrey S. Palmer, Michael Retter, Robb F. Schenck, Dave Swanson, Dan A. Tallman, Tom and Brenda Warren, J. David Williams. Plains LOONS THROUGH DUCKS Among the stranger summer finds, but one occurring more frequently in recent years, is the 7th summer record of Pacific Loon for Nebraska, this one at L.Ogallala 3-23 Jun (SJD, TJ, BP, LP). Clark’s Grebe appears to be more frequent as well: as many as 36 at L. McConaughy and L. Ogallala 29 Jun, with 16 others reported in w. Nebraska, 6 of them in Lincoln, NE 21 Jul (SJD). Two Clark’s were located in Cimarron, OK 26-29 Jun (JWA, JS), with one at Cheyenne Bottoms 21 Jul (MG). Neotropic Cormorants from Oklahoma included one to 5 at Red Slough (DA, m. ob.), with singles w. to Cimarron, OK 28 Jun (JWA, JS), and Hackberry 19 (JAG, VF) & 27 Jul (KM, LT, JDT). Nesting was noted among the 23 Anhingas at Ward L., McCurtain, OK 12 Jun (DA, JWA). A few Least Bitterns were found this season at locations scattered from Cedar, NE 29 Jun (SVS) and Lancaster, NE 2—23 Jun (LE) to Red Slough, where up to 15 individuals and nesting activity were observed 5 Jun— 25 Jul (DA, m. ob.). Rare in the Region, Tricolored Herons were located at Cheyenne Bottoms 8 Jun (GP), Quivira 13 Jun (SP, CH), Alfalfa, OK 17 Jul (JWA), and, of course. Red Slough (2 birds; DA, m. ob.). A juv. Yellow-crowned Night- Heron was in Clay, NE 1 Jul (JGJ). The explo- sion of Glossy Ibis observations of recent years continues: one was documented in Clay, NE 14 Jul (JGJ), only the 2nd for Nebraska, with one or 2 there 20 Jul (WRS, SJD). Other Glossy Ibis were noted in Major, OK 8 Jun and 6 Jul (JWA), Hackberry 19 Jul (JAG, VF), and Cheyenne Bottoms 21 (MG) & 27 Jul (B&NB). The increase in Glossy Ibis records (and num- bers) has accompanied a similar increase in White-faced Ibis, which were found at a new nesting location — Hackberry — confirmed 19 Jul (JAG, VF). A minimum of 25 pairs and six Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 449 nests counted 24 Jun in Clay, NE represented the first nesting record for e. Nebraska and 4th for the state. Away from Red Slough, the only White Ibis reported was one 26 lun in Texas, OK (JWA, JS), out to the west. Still unusual finds are Black-bellied Whistling-Ducks, with one from Major, OK 8 Jun (JWA) and one to 4 from Red Slough 13 Jun— 31 Jul (DA, m. oh.). Summer vagrant waterfowl included many of the now usually reported species. More remarkable among them were the 90 Snow and 2 Ross’s Geese in the e. Rainwater Basin 2 Jun, one of the latter remaining until 15 Jun (JGJ). A Cinnamon Teal was still present at Hackberry 15 Jun (LT, MT), with 21 Cinnamons in Texas, OK 15 Jul (JWA). Male Ring-necked Ducks were found in Clay, NE and York, NE 15 Jun (JGJ), while a female and yearling-male Red-breasted Mergansers summered at L. Ogallala (SJD). HAWKS THROUGH TERNS Occasional in summer, an Osprey was in Keith, NE 11 Jun (RK, fide SJD), possibly a late- migrating imm. The growing information on nesting Bald Eagles from Nebraska and Kansas is most encouraging. One of very few summer reports was that of a male Merlin in Sioux, NE 12 Jul (RW). A Peregrine Falcon in the e. Rainwater Basin 2 Jun (JGJ) was believed a record-late spring migrant for Nebraska (fide WRS). A dark Peregrine was noted at Cheyenne Bottoms 17 Jul (DG). Black Rails are reported annually from Quivira, a location presumed to be isolated from other breeding sites. Persistent searching by Dinsmore at Panhandle marshes in Nebraska located a Black Rail at Facus Springs 9 Jul, with 4 Virginia Rails also present (SJD). A surprising find for Oklahoma were the 5 Soras in Texas 15 Jul (JWA, SP). A scattering of Common Moorhens was located in the Region n. to Clay, NE 20 Jul (SJD). And quite a delight for many birders was the concentration of up to 8 Purple Gallinules (and nesting activity) at Red Slough through most of the period (DA, m. oh.). Summer is normally a hiatus period for shorebirds, with many lagging on their north- bound migration or beginning their south- bound movement — or just hanging around to confuse their status in the Region. Some assignments of migratory direction become quite arbitrary in late Jun and early Jul. Two apparently tardy Black-bellied Plovers were noted 2 Jun in the e Rainwater Basin (JGJ). Up to 6 Black-bellieds were noted at Hackberry 15 Jun (LT, MT). A northerly Snowy Plover was photographed at L. McConaughy 21 Jul (SJD). Most encouraging for the jeopardized popula- tions of Piping Plovers were the record 62 tal- lied at L. MConaughy 21 Jul, 49 of them imms. (RK, fitde SJD). Three migrant Pipings were located in Pawnee, OK 21-22 Jul (GK, MK), with one at Quivira 27 Jul (BE). Two ad and 2 juv. Mountain Plovers were observed in Kimball, NE 9 Jul (SJD). One Greater and 7 Lesser Yellowlegs at Hackberry 22 Jun (LT, MT) were likely early migrants. Unusual in fall was a Whimbrel 16 Jul in Texas, OK (JWA). But what can one say about a Marbled Godwit 13 Jun at Quivira or the 4 at L. McConaughy 17 Jun (SJD)? Also problematic in terms of their migratory direc- tion were 2 Pectoral Sandpipers 24 Jun in e Rainwater Basin (JGJ). In the possibly “quite tardy” category were 2 Ruddy Turnstones in Jefferson, KS 3 Jun (AS, TFl) and a Sanderling in the e. Rainwater Basin 2 Jun (JGJ), with an amazing 79 at L. McConaughy the next day (SJD). Returning southward were a Semipalmated Sandpiper at L. McConaughy 29 Jun (SJD), 28 Baird’s Sandpipers at L. McConaughy 9 Jul (SJD), and a Short-billed Dowitcher 4 Jul in Riley, KS (LJ). Exceptional in some regard were the 300 Wilson’s Phalaropes in Texas, GK 26 & 29 Jun (JWA, JS). Quite early was a molting ad. Red- necked Phalarope in Scotts Bluff, NE 22 Jul (SJD). Exceptional by any standard was a Red Phalarope in basic plumage in Clay, NE 15 Jun (WRS). The ad. light-morph Pomarine Jaeger 21 Jul at L. McConaughy (SJD, WRS) must have been a sight, but it was the 3rd Nebraska summer record, all of ads. {fide ’WRS). A Laughing Gull 27 Jul at Cheyenne Bottoms (BE) was the most exceptional gull reported for the season. Somewhat surprising was a Common Tern at L. McConaughy 3 Jun (SJD), with 2 at Quivira 13 Jun (SP). Least Tern chicks counted in Tulsa 30 Jun came to 23 {fide BH). DOVES THROUGH FINCHES A single ad. White-winged Dove with a few smaller unidentified doves appeared in Kearney, NE (RN). White- winged Doves were also reported from four locations in Kansas {fide EM), and in Lawton, GK (JAG, VF). An Inca Dove was noted in Meade, KS 13 Jun (TF). Along the westernmost periphery of their range were the several Ruby-throated Hummingbirds in Harlan, NE in summer 2000 (GH, WH). Another Ruby-throated was observed just n. in Kearney 6 Jun {fide LR, RH). Two Calliope Hummingbirds were the stuff of envy in Scotts Bluff, NE 30 Jul (KL), likewise the single Calliope in Finney, KS 29 Jul (L&BR). A Rufous Hummingbird appeared in Alma, NE 7 Jul (GH, WH), an early date, with four other sightings later in Jul for the Nebraska Panhandle {fide WRS). A Lewis’s Woodpecker was a long way from home in Geary, KS 10 Jun (DR). Two Yellow-bellied Flycatchers were banded in Keith, NE, with one seen and heard even far- ther w. in Garden, NE 3 Jun (SJD). A pair of Willow Flycatchers nested unsuccessfully but far s. for the species at Red Slough 5 Jun-25 Jul (DA, MD, m. ob.). Ash-throated Flycatchers on the edge of what may be an expanding range were the 3 in Texas, QK 15 Jul (JWA, SP) and 2 in Morton, KS 5 Jun (AP, S&KS). Qnly casual in Nebraska, a Scissor-tailed Flycatcher was rather far w. in Morrill 9 Jun (AK). Numbers of Black-capped Vireos topped 600 pairs this season in Gomanche, QK, where a prescribed burning program and aggressive cowbird con- trol are helping recovery of this federally Endangered species (JAG). Perhaps expected in the wake of last year’s tentative sightings were the Cave Swallows dis- covered at two locations in the Region. The first 2 were juvs. or yearlings at Cheyenne Bottoms 13-15 Jul (SP, CH, m. ob.). A possible ad. was later seen there 27 Jul (BE). The 2nd location was at Hackberry, where 3 juvs. and one ad. were discovered 19 JuH (JAG, VF, m. ob.). It is quite possible that Cave Swallows are currently breeding in the Region, but their nesting areas have yet to be discovered. Among a meagre list of more exceptional passerines was a Veery singing in Washington, NE 7 Jun (JB), probably a late migrant. A male Blackpoll Warbler in Garden, NE 3 Jun (SJD) was late and w. of areas of typical occurrence. Unusual anytime but also on the late side was a Black-throated Blue Warbler 4 Jun in Morton, KS (AP, SScKS). A female Summer Tanager wandered w. to Garden, NE 3 Jun (SJD), one of few records for the Nebraska Panhandle. Five Henslow’s Sparrow were noted in Lancaster, NE 30 Jun (KP) and another in Franklin, KS 4 Jul (MG, ML); one hopes this unobtrusive species is more widespread than these few records indicate. The scattering of Swamp Sparrow records along the s. edge of their breeding range included one Phelps, NE 7 Jul (LR, RH), and up to 7 at the w. end of L. McConaughy 17 Jun (SJD). A male Lazuli Bunting in Knox, NE 5 Jun-3 Jul (MB) was quite far e. of the expected sum- mer range. A peculiar outpost for Lazuli Bunting is the Wichita Mts., OK where about 20 males, some of them mated, were located this season (JAG). Interesting was a flock of up to 61 Red Crossbills, including 2 streaked juvs. in Scotts Bluff/Banner, NE 15 Jun-7 Jul (SJD, KL, AK, TJ). An analysis of Red Crossbills in Sowbelly Canyon 9 Jun (EB) suggested two 450 North American Birds Southern Great Plains types, a large-billed form resembling Type 6 and a smaller-billed form closer to Type 2. Two distinct vocalizations were heard but apparent- ly not pegged to Type (EB). (The subspecies traditionally accepted as breeding in Ponderosa Pines in nw. Nebraska is benti, a large-billed form.) Certainly exceptional was a male White-winged Crossbill in Scotts Bluff/Banner, NE 15-23 Jun (SJD, TJ), only the 2nd documented summer record for the Region. Cited observers (area editors in boldface): KANSAS: Bill & Nancy Beard, Bob Fisher, Tom Flowers, Tom Flanigan (TFl), Dan Gish, Matt Gearheart, Ghris Hobbs, Lowell Johnson, Mark Land, Lloyd Moore, Sebastian Patti, Galen Pittman, Alexis Powell, Leonard & Betty Rich, Dave Rintoul, Scott and Kylee Sharp, Art Smalwell. NEBRASKA: Elliott Bedows, John Brenneman, Mark Brogie, Stephen J. Dinsmore, Larry Einemann, Robin Harding, Glen Hoge, Wanda Hoge, Todd Jensen, Joel G. Jorgensen, Alice Kenitz, Roger Knaggs, Kathy Larson, Roger Newcomb, Babs Padelford, Loren Padelford, Kevin Poague, Lanny Randolph, Steve Van Sickle, W. Ross Silcock, Rick Wright. OKLAHOMA: David Arbour, James W. Arterburn, Marvin Davis,Vic Fazio, Joseph A. Grzybowski, B. Harwood, George Kamp, Marty Kamp, Jo Loyd, Jeri McMahon, Kurt Meisenzahl, Sebastian Patti, Jerry Sisler, Lou Truex, Mary Truex, Jack D. Tyler. A Spring Migration: 1 March-31 May 2001 Joseph A. Grzybowski 715 Elmwood Drive Norman, Oklahoma 73072 (grzybow@aix1 .ucok.edu) There is an aura to the Great Plains in spring, an aura of expansiveness overlain by collec- tive memory of historical abundances — ^the great herds of bison, wealth of game animals, and sky-darkening clouds of birds. This sea- son, at the scattered oases of its managed wet- lands, some of the Region’s past splendor could be imagined: waterfowl of several species and cranes were counted in poetic phrases that sig- nify almost countless thousands of birds. Many concentrations of waterfowl were estimated in five or even six digits, as were groups of sever- al shorebird species. The rush of all these wings must simply be experienced first-hand. On the negative side, the ice storms of the previous winter took their toll. Across Kansas and Oklahoma, many observers noted the reduced numbers of Carolina Wrens, and Carolina Chickadees and Northern Cardinals were likely also similarly affected. It will be interesting to inspect more carefully the results of monitoring schemes such as the Breeding Bird Survey to match observers’ impressions with available standardized data. Discouraging too was the slow showing of Neotropical migrants. Even in the main time- windows and main eastern areas of migration, many were hard to come by. Though there were some extralimital observations, precious few of some expected species were found — such as Nashville Warbler or Chestnut-sided Warbler in eastern stretches. Abbreviations: Cheyenne Bottoms (Cheyenne Bottoms W.M.A., Barton, KS); Funk Lagoon {Phelps, NE); Hackberry (Hackberry Flats W.M.A, Tillman, OK); L. McConaughy {Keith, NE); L. Ogallala {Keith, NE); Quivira (Quivira N.W.R. Stafford, KS); Sooner L. {Noble and Pawnee, OK); Rainwater Basin (pothole area in south-central Nebraska); Red Slough (Red Slough W.M.A. , McCurtain, OK). LOONS THROUGH DUCKS L. Tenkiller, a dear-water reservoir in Cherokee/Sequoyah, OK, attracts an inordinate number of loons compared to other sites in the Region. In addition to the many Commons were 2 Red-throated Loons 2 Mar (JWA) and one to 2 Pacific Loons 7 Apr- 14 May (JWA). Another Red-throated was locat- ed at Sooner L. 29 Mar (JWA). A Red-necked Grebe at L. Ogallala 28 Apr (SJD) was the 8th reported, but first docu- mented, spring record for Nebraska. In a still- developing pattern for Clark’s Grebe, 2 were noted at L. McConaughy 9 Mar (SJD), the ear- liest arrival on record for Nebraska. Rather far e. was a Clark’s in Knox, NE 14-16 Mar (MB). Another Clark’s was located 17 Apr at Cheyenne Bottoms (RK), with 3 there 20 May (W.A.S.) and 2 in Cimarron, OK 21 Apr (JWA). Neotropic Cormorants appear to be increasing. This season, they were reported at Cheyenne Bottoms beginning 7 Apr (SS, LH), Mitchell, KS on an early date of 15 Mar (PL), Cowley, KS 8 Apr (3 birds; GY), Tulsa 1 1 May (JL, PS) and Red Slough (one to 2 birds) by 1 Apr (DA, BH). An Anhinga in Nowata, OK 29 Apr. (BG, MD) was n. of most. The only reports of Least Bittern were of one to 3 at Red Slough beginning 30 Apr (DA et al.), and 2 in Sarpy, NE 21 May (BP, LP). The 3rd documented record of Tricolored Heron for Nebraska was an ad. in Hitchcock 29 Apr (SJD). Normally a very rare summer vagrant, others were reported from Cheyenne Bottoms 28 Apr-6 May (m. ob.), Douglas, KS 5 May (AP, PB), Jefferson, KS 16 May (RF), and Quivira 30 May (RP, MP), with one to 3 at Red Slough beginning 5 Apr (DA, BH). Also with more sightings this season — exceptionally to more westerly reaches of the Region — ^were Glossy Ibis. This season, individuals were noted in Kingfisher, OK 19 Apr (2 birds; JWA, JS), Texas, OK 21 Apr (JWA), Morton, KS 5 May (SS, MR), and Barton, KS 15 May (TC). White Ibis numbers built to 400 at Red Slough by 10 Apr (DA, BH); among them was a Roseate Spoonbill 12-13 May (BH, FH). Just a shadow of last year’s numbers, single Black-bellied Whistling-Ducks were in Major, OK 7 (PB) and 30 Apr (JAG). Part of the Plains’ splendor this season were “several hun- dred thousand” Snow Geese in the Rainwater Basin 16 Mar (LR, RH), with 150,000 at Funk Lagoon 25 Mar (LR, RH). Probably also part of increasing populations were the 5,600 Ross’s Geese with about 8,500 Snows noted in Lancaster, NE 25 Mar (WRS, JSu). Exceptionally late were 2 Ross’s in the e. Rainwater Basin 27 May (JGJ). A migrant Trumpeter Swan was in Dixon, NE 2 Mar (JJ), 7 were in Keith, NE, and 13 were seen in Keith/Garden, NE (JF, SJD), the latter two observations both 4 Mar. Another Trumpeter was noted in Elsworth, KS 13 Mar (D&PR), with 2 in Kearney, KS 3 Mar (TS, SSh). Two Tundra Swans wintering at Red Slough were last noted 6 Mar (DA). Two more Tundra Swans were with Trumpeters at L. Ogallala 4 Mar (SJD, JF); and another was noted flying over Nebraska City 10 Mar (LF). Currently of uncertain origin, 2 Mute Swans were present in Creek, OK 7-20 Mar (FScLH, GK). A Eurasian Wigeon appeared in Clay, NE Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 451 This Wilson’s Plover discovered at Sooner Lake, Oklahoma 5 May 2001 was only the second for the Region. A scarce species in North America, it is a red-letter find anywhere in the continent’s interior. Photograph by James \l\l. Arterburn. 24 Mar (JGJ), with a possible 2nd at another location in Clay 31 Mar (JGJ). The only American Black Duck reported was in Linn, KS 17 Mar (MC, MM). Two Mottled Ducks were flushed at Hackberry 9 May ( JAG). Cinnamon Teal were widely reported this season, with high counts of 32 at Hackberry 14 Mar (JAG) and 12 in Scotts Bluff, NE 29 Apr (KL). By late May, a number of waterfowl species were tardy, vagrant, or had begun breeding. Important and outstanding high counts included 73,000 Northern Pintail 17 Mar (JGJ) and 1,514 Canvasback 24 Mar in the e. Rainwater Basin (JGJ), with an incredible 40,500 Redhead there 31 Mar (JGJ). The 43 Greater Scaup at L. Ogallala 17 Mar (SJD) and 39 at Sooner L. 29 Mar (JWA) were at the peak of migration time for this species. An excep- tional surprise was a subad. male Harlequin Duck in Wyandotte, KS 7-10 Mar (DH, RMc, m. ob.), a first for the Region if accepted. A White-winged Scoter, only casual in spring, was in Chase, KS 4 Mar (GF), with another in Lancaster, NE 27-31 Mar (LE, BP, LP). Long- tailed Ducks included singles in Scotts Bluff, NE 12 Mar (KL), Douglas, KS 17 Mar (RA), and Cheyenne Bottoms 1 Apr (PM, ME, m. ob.). More exceptional was an orange-billed female Barrow’s Goldeneye at L. Ogallala 4 Mar (SJD, JF), with males in Johnso7i, KS 7-9 Mar (ML, m. ob.), and Sedgwick, KS 16 Mar (PJ), and a female in Saline, NE 1 Apr (MOr). HAWKS THROUGH GULLS Current signs of a better time for Bald Eagles were the 185 in Keith, NE 9 Mar and 111 in Lincoln, NE 4 Mar (SJD). Nesting now occurs at more locations in the Region than can be reported individually. Of very few reports from w. Kansas were 3 Broad-winged Hawks in Scott 12 May (TS, SSh, M&MR). Peregrine Falcons now include a growing number of birds that probably winter, including 3 seen in Kearney, NE 9-16 Mar (RG). Migrants may be broadening their migration windows, with a possible early arrival in Knox, NE 29 Mar (SVS). In addition, breeding Peregrines occur in Omaha, with 3 chicks present at the end of May (fide WRS). Black Rails were found at Quivira by 5 May (GP, DS, MS). Only a few King Rails were reported, those from Hackberry 22 Apr (KM, LT) and 24 May (JAG), Douglas, KS 5 May (PW, RW), and Red Slough 1 May (DA, SW). Seven Virginia Rails in Keith/Garden, NE 9 Mar (SJD) apparently wintered. Among the Region’s splendors were the 350,000 Sandhill Cranes in Hall and Buffalo, NE 22 Mar (LF, CF). High counts of Black-bellied Plovers for the Region included 98 in the e. Rainwater Basin 19 May (JGJ). A Snowy Plover was noted as far n. as Hitchcock, NE 29 Apr (SJD). A pure sur- prise was a Wilson’s Plover located at Sooner L. 3-5 May (JWA, JC, KK, m. ob.), only the Region’s 2nd. A few Piping Plovers moved through Oklahoma and Kansas 17 Apr- 12 May. Certainly on the rise in recent years are reports of Whimbrel. Surprisingly early were one at Quivira 14 Apr (SS, DB) and 2 on 21-22 Apr at Hackberry (LT, MT). High counts included 44 at Hackberry 6 May (LT, MT) and 35 at Sooner L. 23 May (JWA, JS). Several excellent counts for Hudsonian Godwits included 150 at Cheyenne Bottoms 14 Apr (SS, DB) and about 420 at Hackberry 28 Apr (JAG). Rather early for Nebraska were 2 Marbled Godwits in the e. Rainwater Basin 7 Apr (JGJ), with one rather late in Lancaster, NE 26 May (LE). Ruddy Turnstones were more widely reported this season, with 2 early arrivals 2 May in Oklahoma (JAG), and a record 51 at Sooner L. 23 May (JWA). Almost unheard of in spring. Red Knots were present in unprece- dented numbers: singles were observed at Quivira 12 (SS, MR) 8c 20 May (W.A.S.), with 2 at Hackberry 22 (LT, MT) 8c 24 May (JAG, VF), and 26 in Russell, KS 23 May (PJ). The status of Dunlin in Mar and early Apr, before their normal migration period, is diffi- cult to assess. This season, 5 were noted as early as 14 Mar at Hackberry (JAG), with one in Thurston, NE 7 Apr (BFH). The 4,500 SemipaJmated Sandpipers at Hackberry 28 Apr (JAG) was an astounding number in our expe- rience. Short-billed Dowitchers migrate through the Region in a narrow window, and largely in the eastern parts of the Region, but difficulty in identification still clouds the record. This season, reliable reports of 2 birds came from Sooner L. 23 May (JWA) and Hackberry 24 May (JAG), with 6 birds in Sarpy, NE 25 May (CNK). Red-necked Phalaropes graced Nebraska and Kansas in a very narrow window 23-28 May, with up to 8 individuals reported in both Cherry, NE 23 May (CGr) and Washington, KS 25 May (DT). Only 2 were seen in Oklahoma, those in Alfalfa 22 May (JM et al.) Much rarer and almost unheard of in spring were Red Phalaropes, with singles in Fillmore, NE 28 Apr (JGJ), and Quivira 30 Apr (MI, JF) 8c 6 May (DS, GP, MS). As observers keep checking the increasing numbers of gulls, the rarer ones are seen in higher frequencies. This season, L. McConaughy hosted one to 2 ad. Mew Gulls 9-25 Mar (SJD, WRS). A record 30,000 Ring- billed Gulls was estimated in Harlan, NE 15 Mar (PL), with 1 1,000 in Lancaster, NE 25 Mar (WRS). Among about 1300 Herring Gulls at L. McConaughy 9 Mar were 13 Thayer’s Gulls (SJD); the last was noted 15 Apr (SJD). Kansas posted at least 12 Thayer’s, the last noted 3 Apr at Cheyenne Bottoms (MR). Surprising was a carefully studied first-winter Iceland Gull at L. 452 North American Birrs Southern Great Plains Spring Migration 2001 McConaughy 24 Mar (WRS, JSu). Lesser Black-backed Gulls included 2 at L. McConaughy — an adult present 4-25 Mar (SJD, JF, WRS) and a second-winter bird 17 Mar (SJD). A first-winter Glaucous-winged Gull was identified in Lincoln, NE 3 Mar (AB), the 3rd for Nebraska if accepted by that state’s Records Committee. An amazing 15 Glaucous Gulls were still at L. McConaughy 9 Mar (SJD), with 9 others from the rest of the Region, all noted in Mar. Among the better gull finds was a Great Black-backed Gull in Cojfey, KS 10 Mar (ML). DOVES THROUGH WAXWINGS Eurasian Collared- Doves have become more commonplace, with breeding birds established in many towns across the Region. Also expanding and establishing local breeding groups are White-winged Doves. Nesting was noted in Atchison, KS 16 May (TA, NBo, m. ob.). A small group could be located in Lawton, OK (KM), with singles noted at eight other locations in the Region. With them are Inca Doves, up to 15 counted in Meade, KS (TF), with singles in Crawford, KS (MPr), Comanche, OK (KM, SM), and Oklahoma (SSt). One species observed less frequently is Black-billed Cuckoo, with only 6 reported from Nebraska {fide WRS), none elsewhere. A total surprise for a non-invasion year was an imm. Snowy Owl on the ice in Lancaster, NE 25 Mar (WRS, JSu). Also a real “zootie” was a White-throated Swift trapped in a granary in Ford, KS 23 Apr (K&MS, SB). Not a normal spring occurrence, a male Broad-tailed Flummingbird visited a yard in Finney, KS 12 May (M&PR, TS, SSh), while a female Rufous Hummingbird visited another yard there (TS, SSh). A Dusky Flycatcher in Kimball, NE 9 May (SJD, JF) will provide the first spring record for Nebraska, pending acceptance by that state’s committee. A genuine ornithological event was the incursion of Vermilion Flycatchers into new areas of the Region. In Kansas, the first was photographed in Barton, KS 15 Mar. (Mrs. B), with others in Morton 5 Apr (DV, FV, L&RS) to 6 May (SS, MR), Meade, KS 15-16 Apr (GSc), and Leavenworth, KS 19 May (D&AR). In Oklahoma, a pair was located in Cimarron !• Apr (EE) through at least 20 Apr (JWA), with singles in Comanche during mid- Apr and Tillman, OK 14 Apr (LT, MT, KM). Among e. vireos wandering onto the Plains were a White-eyed 22 Apr in Finney, KS (MO), and a Yellow-throated in Dodge, NE 20 May (LR, RH). A Western Scrub-Jay wandered e. to Grant, KS 7 Mar (JT), while a peculiarly sta- VoLUME 55 (2001), Number 4 tionary Pinyon Jay was in Gray, KS until at least 27 Apr (MCu). White-breasted Nuthatches wintering in w. portions of the Region are likely the cookei race: one so noted was in Kimball, NE 22 Mar (SJD), with anoth- er in Sioux, NE as late as 9 May (SJD). This was probably not a good year for Carolina Wrens, populations from Nebraska to Oklahoma hav- ing taken serious hits from this winter’s ice storms. Among the species with both e. and w. sub- species traversing the Region is the Hermit Thrush. Fewer data exist for w. forms in the Region. Individuals of the Rocky Mountain subspecies of the Hermit Thrush were noted in Sioux, NE 2 May (SJD). No small surprise was a Varied Thrush in Box Butte, NE 9 May (LW). A nest box program in the mesa country of nw. Cimarron, OK netted a nesting pair of Mountain Bluebirds observed 15-17 May (B&DG). A Townsend’s Solitaire wandering e. to Sedgwick, KS was observed 1 Mar (CG), and a Curve-billed Thrasher was seen w. in Grant, KS 4 Mar (JT). The only Bohemian Waxwings reported were 2 at L. Ogallala 9 Mar (SJD). WARBLERS THROUGH FINCHES As the years progress, warblers on migration seem to be increasingly scarce. However, pick- ing up in recent years, 9 Golden-winged Warblers were reported from Nebraska in the period 5-12 May {fide WRS), with 5 from Kansas {fide LM). Westerly were a Blue- winged Warbler in Finney, KS 23-25 Apr (MO), a male Chestnut-sided Warbler in Garden, NE 19 May (KMD), a Pine Warbler in Sedgwick, KS 22 Apr (LH), and a Cerulean Warbler 7 May in Sedgwick, KS (DV, KK, MLe). Worm-eating Warblers showed up 17 (DF) & 21 Apr (TS) in Finney, KS and 27 Apr at Cheyenne Bottoms (RK). Also westerly were single Hooded Warblers in Finney, KS 2-15 May (MO) and Dakota, NE 5 May {fide BFH). Among the rarest warblers in the Region is Cape May. Singles were in Washington, NE 7 May (JGJ), and Riley, KS 15 May (LJ). Another hoped-for species for many in the Region, a Connecticut Warbler was found 12 May at Sarpy, NE {BFafide BP, LP). A Palm Warbler at L. Ogallala 28 Apr was of the subspecies pal- marum (SJD). Only 4 Bay-breasted Warblers were reported for the entire Region, including singles in Wayne, NE 7 May (MB), Sarpy, NE 8 8d9 May {fide WRS), and Linn, KS 12 May (MC). A small up-note were the 24 Scarlet Tanagers counted in Tulsa 5 May (JL, PS). Others were noted w. in Scott, KS (MRy), Quivira (SS, MR), Sedgwick, KS (PJ), and Cowley, KS (JN), all coincidentally 12 May — the Spring Migration Day Count. Certainly a tough bird to see, even when pres- ent, was a Green-tailed Towhee 6 May in Finney, KS (MO, LRi, TS, SSh). Always sur- prising are migrant Baird’s Sparrows. This sea- son, one was observed in Gosper, NE 1-2 May (GW, EB). And always interesting, 1075 McCown’s Longspurs were present during mid-Apr in Kimball, NE, with 730 eastward in Cheyenne, NE 14 Apr (SJD). Very early arrivals were an Indigo Bunting in Otoe, NE 13 Apr (LF, CF), and Orchard Orioles: one also in Otoe, NE 11 Apr (LF, CF) and another in McCurtain, OK 6-12 Apr (BH). After the winter’s rosy-finch excitement, the last Gray-crowneds sighted were 20 at Sioux, NE feeders 9 Mar; at least one Hepburn’s-race Gray-crowned Rosy-Finch and one Black Rosy-Finch were with them (HKH). Surprising was a small array of Red Crossbills in Kansas, including a “flock” in Sedgwick 17- 23 Mar (MTh), 2 in Riley 5 Apr (DBu), 2 in Pottawatomie 5 Apr (DG, LEd), and 4-10 in Finney 21 Apr-6 Jun (MLk, TS). A Lesser Goldfinch in Oklahoma 31 Mar (BHo) was outside normal limits for the species. An Evening Grosbeak noted 8 & 29 Mar in Finney, KS (TS, SSh) was the sole representative of this increasingly rare species. Cited observers (area editors in boldface): KANSAS: Ted Anderson, Robert Antonio, Mrs. Bachman (Mrs. B.), Scott Baugh, Nancy Bonner (NBo), Richard Bean, Doris Burnett (DBu), Dave Bryan, Ted Cable, Mark Corder, Mike Cummings (MCu), Marsha Ebaugh, Leon Edmonds (LEd), Greg Farley, Richard Field, Doug Floto, Joe Fontaine, Dan Gish, Chet Gresham, David Henness, Larry Hesed, Marshall Iliff, Pete Janzen, Lowell Johnson, Kenn Kaufman, Rich Kostecke, Mary Lake (MLk), Mark Land, Paul Lehman, Mike Lesan (MLe), Patty Marlett, Mick McHugh, Roger McNeill (RMc), Lloyd Moore, John Northrup, Mary Osterbuhr, Galen Pittman, Alexis Powell, Ralph Pike, Matt Pike, Martha Price (MPr), Mike Rader, Mike Ramsey (MRy), Mike & Pam Ramsey, David & Alison Reber, Leonard Rich (LRi), Dave & Patty Ruitz (D&PR), Georgia Schmalzreid (GSc), Scott Seltman, Kathy & Mark Sexson (K8cMS), David Seibel, Tom Shane, Sara Shane (SSh), Lawrence & Ruth Smith, Mike Stewart, Dan Thalmann, Max Thompson (MTh), Jeff Trotman, Don 8c Fran Vannoy, Phil Wedge, Roy Wedge, Wichita Audubon Society (W.A.S.), Gene Young. NEBRASKA: Elaine Bachel, Aaron Brees, Mark Brogie, Stephen J. Dinsmore, Kathy Mihm Dunning, Larry Einemann, Carol Falk, Laurence Falk, Joe Fontaine, Carlos Grandes 453 Texas (CGr), Ruth Green, Robin Harding, Helen K. Hughson, Bill R Huser, Jan Johnson, Joel G. Jorgensen, Clem N. Klaphake, Kathy Larson, Paul Lehman, Mark Orsag (MOr), Babs Padelford, Loren Padelford, Bill Parker (BPa), Lanny Randolph, Steve Van Sickle, W. Ross Silcock, John Sullivan (JSu), Leona Weed, Gertrude Wood, Nebraska Ornithologists’ Union (N.O.U.). OKLAHOMA; Dave Arbour, James W. Arterburn, P. Beech, Jeff Cox, Melinda Droege, E. Edgar, Vic Fazio, Bonnie Gall, B&D Germany, Joseph A. Grzybowski, Berlin Heck, E Hendershot, F&L Hickson, Bill Horn (BHo), George Kamp, Kenn Kaufman, L.&G.Leslie, Jo Loyd, Jeri McMahon, Kurt Meisenzahl, Sharon Meisenzahl, Pat Seibert, Jerry Sisler, S. Stoodley, Lou Truex, Mary Truex, Steve Webber. a ABA Events 2002 Mark your calendars now! 10-16 June Annual Convention Duluth, Minnesota Prime birding habitats include the Boreal Forests, grasslands and marshes, and mixed deciduous woodlands. Kim Eckert, author of A Birder's Guide to Minnesota and a VENT tour leader, will be coordinating the field trips. As always, top field experts will conduct our programs and work shops, and we'll enjoy entertaining, informative evening programs. Program and registration was published in the January 2002 issue of Winging It, or call Nanci Hawley at: 800-850-2473 ext. 233 Chuck Sexton 101 East 54th Street Austin, Texas 78751-1232 (cwsexton@onr.com) Some stark contrasts of climate played out across Texas this season. While Tropical Storm Allison deluged the southeast corner. Big Bend National Park was going though its sec- ond driest summer in the past 25 years. The northern Panhandle was quite green and moist into June, but almost all parts of central Texas from Abilene south to the Lower Rio Grande Valley were very dry. Many areas from Austin up to Amarillo suffered through July with excessive heat, setting records for the number of days over 100 degrees Fahrenheit by late summer. The breeding season was understand- ably beneficial for waterbirds and for most passerines in the wetter areas. With the excep- tions of the drought-plagued Rio Grande corridor, earlier rains still allowed for a reason- able nesting effort for most birds. Tropical Storm Allison developed quickly in the northern Gulf of Mexico in early June. After making landfall near Galveston on 5 June, rather than dissipating, it proceeded to wander back and forth over the Houston area for the next five days, dumping as much as 20- 35 inches of rain and paralyzing Texas’s largest city. Probably due to the storm’s nearby point of origin and short offshore life span, a single Band-rumped Storm-Petrel found in Seabrook, Harris County on 6 June seems to have been the only overt storm-blown stray. The storm’s legacy was expressed subsequently in an excellent breeding season for freshwater species such as Pied-billed Grebe, Least Bittern, Fulvous Whistling-Duck, King Rail, Purple Gallinule, and Common Moorhen.. .along with a bumper crop of mos- quitoes. Abbreviations: L.R.G.V. (Lower Rio Grande Valley); S.W.T.P. (Southside Water Treatment Plant, Dallas); T.B.R.C. (Texas Bird Records Committee); U.T.C. (Upper Texas Coast). The following are shortened names for the respec- tive local, county, state, or national parks and wildlife refuges, etc.: Alazan Bayou, Anahuac, Aransas, Balmorhea, Big Bend, Big Bend Ranch, Brazoria, Buffalo Lake, Dolan Falls, Laguna Atascosa, Muleshoe, Palo Duro 454 North American Birds Southern Great Plains — Texas This male Tropical Parula and its mate made an unsuccessful nesting attempt at Davis Mountains State Park, Jeff Davis County, Texas. Photograph by Greg Lesley Canyon, Richland Creek, Sabal Palm, Sabine Woods, San Bernard, Santa Ana. LOONS THROUGH VULTURES Quite odd for the summer season, a breeding- plumaged Pacific Loon was picked up in a parking lot in San Antonio 17 Jun and brought to a veterinary hospital (GLi). The bird was treated and released the next day on a lake in nearby Boerne. A Western Grebe lingered in Lamb 5 fun (CS), and 2 more were at Buffalo L., Randall 7-27 Jun (CS, KS), rare summer sightings in the High Plains. Good numbers of Clark’s Grebes spent the season at McNary Res., Hudspeth for the 4th consecutive year, producing at least 8 young (JPa, MAd). Only 3-5 Western Grebes were present there, with no evidence of breeding. A pelagic trip off of S. Padre I., Cameron 18 Jul encountered one or possibly 2 Leach’s Storm-Petrels and 9 Band- rumpeds (PHo, BMc). On a follow-up trip in the same area on 20 Jul, 21 Band-rumpeds were tallied (PHo). By far the best find of the 18 Jul pelagic trip was an imm. Red-billed Tropicbird; if accepted by the T.B.R.C., this would be about the 5th Texas record. A Brown Booby appeared in the Brownsville Ship Channel at S. Padre L, Cameron 30 Jun-16 Jul (S8cGC, m. ob., ph. BMc); there was some question if the bird could be of the e. Pacific brewsteri race. Perhaps a few more American White Pelicans than normal stayed the sum- mer at scattered locations; one on the Rio Grande downriver from Big Bend 2 Jun was a little curious (MRy), and 80 up at Buffalo L. was a record setting number there (KS). Double-crested Cormorants nested in small numbers once again at Palo Duro Res., Hansford and at Buffalo L., but the few nests at the latter locality were abandoned by late Jun (KS). More significantly, four nests were dis- covered at Sam Rayburn Res., San Augustine 15 Jul (DW), a first confirmed effort in the coun- ty and reservoir. A single Anhinga circling with Wood Storks and White Ibis in Bastrop 8 Jul was unseasonal there (BFr). Many observers commented on the high numbers of Magnificent Frigatebirds hanging around Galveston Bay, sometimes numbering in the dozens. An American Bittern at Alazan Bayou, Nacogdoches 24 Jun ( JFa, CCr) provided a first Pineywoods summer report. Despite sweeping statements in most general references that the Least Bittern nests statewide, it remains a rare bird in the Panhandle, where suitable habitat is local and not easily accessible. A single bird was seen in Collingsworth 10 Jul (Bpi), and another was a nice find at San Solomon Cienega at Balmorhea 5 Jul (TJ, m. ob.). A Great Egret flying down Madera Canyon 4 Jun in the Davis Mts. was certainly out of place (KB). A successful breeding season for Reddish Egrets on the coast led to a bumper crop of juvs. dispersing inland; there was an interesting record at Granger L., Williamson 22 Jul (TF), and a 2nd El Paso record 18-31 Jul (tJZ, m. ob.). Also rare in w. Texas were Yellow-crowned Night Herons at McNary Res. 7-23 Jul (JPa, JZ, MSc) and at Big Bend’s Rio Grande Village Nature Trail 22 Jul (VE, BZ). Symptomatic of the flood of long-legged waders inland were reports of White Ibis: a record 53 at Austin’s Hornsby Bend 28 Jun (BFr); 200 at Fiberboard L., Angelina 2 Jul (GG, NB); and up to 80 at Chappell Hill, Washington in the latter half of Jul (DVo). A total of 31 Glossy Ibis was found at various Calhoun locations 30 Jul (BFr), and the species was encountered in small numbers in Beaumont and at Anahuac, but no nesting evi- dence was documented (ErC, JWh). A Glossy strayed to S.W.T.P. in Dallas 16 Jul (DH). Roseate Spoonbills wandered inland to Bastrop, Burleson, and Freestone, with one early bird at Richland Cr. in the latter county 30 May (DH, BG). The push of Wood Storks up into e. Texas was widely reported, with small numbers showing up as far inland as Marion and Freestone in the first few days of Jun. A Black Vulture away from the Rio Grande at Big Bend Ranch 31 Jul was unexpected (KB, JG, CE). WATERFOWL THROUGH RAPTORS Over 15 species of waterfowl garnered atten- tion as summering lingerers, but there were relatively few interesting strays or breeding records. A group of 3 Fulvous Whistling-Ducks resided at the Rio Bravo Wetland Park in El Paso from 28 May onward (JSp, m. ob.), only the 2nd county record. Three Muscovy Ducks were seen at Chapeno, Starr 10 Jun (MM), and Tim Brush and others found an estimated 6-8 Muscovies (along with a rare summer Wood Duck) on a river trip in that section the next day. A few pairs of Mallards bred at Stillhouse Hollow Res., Bell (RP), but reports of eclipse birds and some ducklings in Freestone and Williamson were confusing, as both Mallard and Mottled are rare possibilities here (KG, DDC, TF). A drake Cinnamon Teal in Hermann Park, Harris 4 Jun was late for the U.T.C. (LR). Exciting news came in the form of a report of a female Masked Duck with 8 downy young at Brazoria 19 Jun ( JWi). Single Masked Ducks were at Sabal Palm 8-11 Jun (RG) and near Rockport 22-26 Jul (MM, MCo ph., t to T.B.R.C.). Four Ospreys were reported in cen. and e. Texas in Jul away from areas where we normal- ly encounter the species in summer; one pair nested at L. Livingston, San Jacinto. A few Swallow-tailed Kites were detected in Liberty and Jasper but within their known recent digs. An early migrant Swallow-tailed had made it to Laguna Atascosa by 20 Jul (SL). A Wliite- tailed Kite in El Paso 1 1 Jun was the first coun- ty record since Oberholser collected the species Volume 55 {2001), Number 4 455 there in 1938 (JZ, MSc); delightfully, an ad. with 3 young was detected 12 8c 25 Jun (JPa, BZ). Although it had previously been docu- mented that post-breeding Bald Eagles from Texas moved well to the n. in the United States in summer, it was clear that at least a handful of ads. and fledglings lingered at e. Texas reser- voirs this year. The Davis Mts. hosted a nesting pair of Sharp-shinned Hawks in late Jun (KB et al.), a first confirmed record for the county. Cooper’s Hawks were confirmed breeding in Williamson, and there were interesting sight- ings in Callahan se. of Abilene 4 Jun, in Amarillo 5 Jun, and in Angelina 26 Jun. A pair of Gray Hawks was seen occasionally in Limpia Canyon near Fort Davis from 30 Mar through the summer {fide KB); they were presumed to be nesting, but the site is on private land. Two pairs of Common Black-Hawks in the Davis Mts. fledged single young, but the pair at Big Bend’s Rio Grande Village lost their one nestling. Territorial pairs of Broad-winged Hawks were rarities at two Bastrop locations; fledglings were seen at the S.R there in late Jul (BFr). A juv. Broad-winged in cen. Austin 16 Jul suggested an urban park breeding record (TE). A successful pair of Swainson’s Hawks at Granger L., e. Williamson may have been a first confirmation for that area (TF, BFr). A Ferruginous Hawk hanging around Carson in the cen. Panhandle was s. of the species’s known nesting range (JR, MoS). A Merlin in Alpine 23 Jun was a first summer record for Brewster (DWh), but a handful of Peregrine reports across the state in the last week of Jul is consistent with the known pattern of early southbound arrivals. Nesting Purple Gallinules at two sites in Angelina were considered nice finds. Common Moorhens nest only at scattered localities in the Panhandle; ads. with chicks were found 5- 29 Jul within the city limits of Amarillo (BPi, EK). Twenty-six Snowy Plovers at Indianola, Calhoun 30 Jul (BFr, PHo) and 57 Piping Plovers at Bolivar Flats 22 Jul (PB, WB) were significant concentrations at this season. Rather local but widespread inland in Texas as a breeder, up to 6 Black-necked Stilts in Burleson in Jul provided a first summer record for that region. Up to 500 non-nesting American Avocets made for an early concen- tration at Buffalo L. 8 Jul, no doubt driven there by disappearing playa lakes. There were early southbound Willets 15 Jul at Buffalo L. (BPi), 20 Jul at Stillhouse Hollow L. (GCr), and in Briscoe 28 Jul (m. ob.), all single birds. A rare nesting effort of Spotted Sandpipers was con- firmed by an ad. with flightless young at Buffalo L. 2 Jul (EK, LKJ); 9 others were reported in the Panhandle in Jun and Jul. A Long-billed Curlew found inland in Waller 4 Jun (FC), an extremely rare Hudsonian Godwit at Buffalo L. 7 Jun (CS), and a Sanderling at Rita Blanca L. 12 Jun (KS) were just a few of the many northbound shorebirds that lingered well into Jun (m. ob.); just a heartbeat later, several early southbound species were being reported, including a Long- billed Curlew that had arrived in Midland by 30 Jun (RMS) and Marbled Godwits in Nueces 1 Jul (MC). A Hudsonian Godwit that dropped into Brazoria 15 Jul- 4 Aug (JO, RWe) was a rarity for the southbound side of the season, as was a White-rumped Sandpiper at the same location on the first date (JO). JAEGERS THROUGH KINGFISHERS A first for the High Plains was a Pomarine Jaeger in Lubbock 1-5 Jul (AF, ph. JB). June saw a number of late or out-of-place larids: Laughing Gulls were in Freestone 2 Jun and Bastrop 28 Jun; and Franklin’s Gulls, Caspian, Forster’s, and Black Terns were sprinkled around cen., w., and n. Texas. A few California Gulls were at McNary Res. and Ft. Hancock in Jun. The pelagic trip off S. Padre 1. 18 Jul encountered only 3 Bridled and one Sooty Tern (PHo, BMc). The Black Skimmer colony at Dow Chemical in Freeport, Brazoria had its best nesting season since the late 1960s, with 725 fledged; an additional 400 unfledged young were present at the end of the period (JH, TT). Vagrant skimmers were at San Antonio’s Mitchell L. 4 Jul (MH, WS) and at Austin’s Hornsby Bend 10 Jul (PW). Bailey, Cherokee, Coke, Lipscomb, and Robertson were filled in on the map of Eurasian Collared-Dove sightings. Common Ground- Doves were singing at San Bernard throughout the period (RWe, JO), and 3 were found in Waller 7 Jul (FC). Unexpected summer Groove-billed Anis were in Big Bend 30 Jun (GCl) 8c 22 Jul (VE, BZ) and at Anahuac 15 Jul (2nd summer U.T.C. record; DVe). Elf Owls were detected (and presumed nesting) in two locations in the Davis Mts. in Jun. A few Barred Owls and a handful of Chuck-will’s-widows heard in Donley 30 May- 16 Jun were rare finds for the Panhandle (JB, BPi). Three Chimney Swifts were in Brownsville 3 Jun, possible nesters; the breeding status of this species is poorly understood in the L.R.G.V. (BMc). A Green Violet-ear appeared at Volente, Travis for the 2nd year in a row 19 Jun- 16 Jul (AS, ByS, m. ob.). One of the season’s most extraor- dinary finds was the ad. male Costa’s Hummingbird that visited a feeder in the Davis Mts. about 8 mi nw. of Ft. Davis, Jeff Davis 10 Jun+ (fVBcNR, ML, W8cJC, m. ob.). This first county record is about the 9th for Texas and a first “summer” record as well. A male Ringed Kingfisher at L. Bastrop 8 Jul may have been one of the birds reported a few mi away earlier in the year (BFr). A Green Kingfisher on the Brazos R. in Washington 19- 20 Jun was extralimital (DVo). FLYCATCHERS THROUGH CORVIDS An extremely out-of-range Northern Beardless-Tyrannulet was discovered 28 Jul at Cibolo Cr. Ranch in Presidio (fBZ, VE). This is the first Trans-Pecos record of this species, the first outside of deep s. Texas. Its location so far to the w. caused speculation that it might actu- ally be from a w. Mexico population, analogous to occurrences of Ruddy Ground-Dove in that area of Texas. An Eastern Wood-Pewee was identified at Palo Duro Canyon 5 Jul (EK et al.), an area where neither wood-pewee species is known to nest. Multiple Dusky Flycatchers were again noted on territory near the summit of Mt. Livermore in the Davis Mts., and the pair of Buff-breasted Flycatchers on that pre- serve made two nesting attempts (KB, m. ob.). A Black Phoebe at Hornsby Bend, Travis 24 Jun was odd (RKa). Eastern Phoebes nested out of range in Gonzales and Brazos, and a pair nest- ed for the first time within Amarillo. A pair of Vermilion Flycatchers nested successfully in Jun at Muleshoe (m. ob.); not to be outdone, a male Vermilion was displaying even farther n. at Palo Duro Res., Hansford 5 Jun (KS). There were reports of 3 Dusky-capped Flycatchers at three locations in the Chisos Mts. of Big Bend 6-22 Jun (m. ob.); unlike last year, no nesting activity was noted. Another Dusky-capped was in the high country of Davis Mts. Preserve 4 Jul (KB et al.). The extralimital Great Kiskadees at Baytown were seen as late as 16 Jul, but nesting was never confirmed (DSa, DD). Even farther astray was a single Great Kiskadee observed 12 8< 18 Jun in Chappell Hill, Washington, and 2 birds there in late Aug (MAG), providing a first for the Central Brazos Valley. Tropical Kingbirds nested for the 6th year in a row at Big Bend’s Cottonwood Campground (RiW, m. ob.); fledglings were noted there 7 Jul (MAd). A Couch’s Kingbird at Sabine Woods, Chambers 10 Jun is one of few summer records for the U.T.C. (JWh). There were multiple Cassin’s Kingbirds in Hudspeth in early Jun, including a nesting pair 30 mi n. of Sierra Blanca (JPa) and birds at unusual low desert locations. Finding Bell’s Vireos in the Panhandle in summer is always newsworthy. Eight singing Bell’s were found in Donley 30 May-3 Jun (JB), and another was at Muleshoe 5 Jun (CS); a fledgling was noted at the latter locality 17 Jun (JB). It was also nice to hear of successful nest- 456 North American Birds Texas ing of Bell’s in e. Texas in Henderson (GLu, DW). In a week-long survey, Maresh found 7 male, 3 female, and 2 nestling Black-capped Vireos in the Chisos Mts. area of Big Bend. A pair of Black-cappeds on territory in c. Concho 9 Jun provided a long-overdue county record (CS). Of note was an unseasonable Plumbeous Vireo in Midland 3 Jul (DHu, m. ob.). A pair of Warbling Vireos on territory in e. Travis 22 May-19 Jun and another singing male in near- by Bastrop 18-19 Jun were unprecedented for the Austin area (BFr). Another Warbling Vireo was out of place at Big Bend Ranch 31 Jul (KB, JG, CE). One to 2 Yellow-green Vireos were reported periodically through the summer at Sabal Palm {fide BMc). A Black- whiskered Vireo on w. Galveston I. 26 Jun-4 Jul provided a first summer record for Texas (ph. JSt). One Western Scrub-Jay from the winter invasion just didn’t want to leave El Paso; it was still hanging around 15-16 Jun (JSp). A few of the invasive Pinyon Jays were still s. of Alpine 1 1 Jun (DO). Unusual summer Common Ravens were in Carson 16 Jun (EK, RSc, et al.; first county record) and Oldham 24 Jun (BPi). SWALLOWS THROUGH WARBLERS Despite the Jul heat, it was a very good nesting season for Purple Martins in the Panhandle (JR). By mid-Jul, a post-breeding mass of 100,000 martins had gathered at L. Livingston, Polk (GR), and another 50,000 had gathered on the Texas A&M Univ. campus in College Station (D&SWi, DPh). Single Tree Swallows lingered in Hemphill, Williamson, and Bell into late Jun, and nesting was suspected but not confirmed at all three locations. One or 2 Carolina Wrens were at Big Bend Ranch 13 Jun-31 Jul (m. ob.) and were suspected of nesting, the westernmost outpost for the species in Texas. A House Wren near Texline, Dallam 6—13 Jun was away from known breed- ing areas (CS, KS). One to 2 e. Bewick’s Wrens were nice finds for ne. Texas 23 Jun-4 Jul in Harrison (ERy). Clay-colored Robins were confirmed nesting at Santa Ana by late Jul, and a trip down the Rio Grande between Roma and Rio Grande City encountered 10 Clay-col- oreds (TBr). An American Robin at Rio Grande Village was a first Jun record for Big Bend (TPa). There was a smattering of late Jun and Jul records of Gray Catbirds on the coast as far s. as Aransas, most believed to represent an early southbound movement. A Sage Thrasher in El Paso 18 Jul was an extremely early migrant (BZ, VE). In their only known outpost away from the Chisos Mts., 2 Colima Warblers were found in the Davis Mts. Preserve 23 Jun (KB et al.) where one had been detected in May. A male Northern Parula in w. El Paso 28 Jun was believed to be the same bird present since early May (JPa). The nesting pair of Tropical Parulas in Davis Mts. S.P. was last seen 10 Jul; a nesting effort in May was abandoned. Among the very latest or out-of-place warblers were the follow- ing: Magnolia at Midland 3 Jun (DHu), Black- throated Blues in Brewster 13 Jun (COK) and Bastrop 25 Jun (SM), Blackburnian in Marion 12 Jul (HB), and Blackpoll at Sabine Woods, Jefferson 16 Jun (JWh). Brush Freeman’s tally of territorial warblers in Bastrop included one Yellow-throated, 5-i- Swainson’s, 20-1- Kentucky, and 9-1- Hooded; numbers like these hadn’t been detected there in a decade. An apparently territorial MacGillivray’s Warbler was found high in Davis Mts. Preserve late May-23 Jun (KB et al.). As the dome of high pressure and hot temperatures set up over Texas in early Jul, the usual suspects for early fall migrants began showing up: a Black-and-white Warbler at High I. 30 Jun was probably the earliest of all; by mid- to late Jul, Black-and-whites were scat- tered from Big Bend to the Panhandle and southward. Louisiana Waterthrushes were also found in late Jul from Buffalo L. down to Sabal Palm. Rarely reported in migration, a Golden- cheeked Warbler was described at Boot Spring in Big Bend 28 Jul (LL). A male Rufous-capped Warbler banded at Dolan Falls, Val Verde two years ago was recaptured 23 Jun, and a female was captured the next day (fide RD). TANAGERS THROUGH FINCHES An imm. male Scarlet Tanager was a delightful surprise in Llano 13 Jun (DB), but in the “wild- ly unexpected” category was a nesting pair of Western Tanagers with 4 fledglings 8 Jul in the Panhandle in Bailey (RSm) — “Just how far out of range is that?” quizzed Seyffert. A Black- throated Sparrow in Garza 1 Jun was notewor- thy (AF). Symptomatic of the good breeding season in cen. and e. Texas, a juv. Grasshopper Sparrow was found at Alazan Bayou, Nacogdoches 17 Jul (JFa), where the species is rare and local. A Swamp Sparrow seen at High I. 24 Jun and heard again 30 Jun was only the 2nd summer U.T.C. report (DVe). Eking out an existence trapped in a grocery store, a White-crowned Sparrow “lingered” to 12 Jun in s. Austin (CSh); another White-crowned was in the wilds of w. Edwards 21 Jun (JM). Lark Buntings, Blue Grosbeaks, Indigo and Painted Buntings, and Dickcissels all had ban- ner breeding seasons in range. Most unusual were territorial Indigo Buntings in the Davis Mts. as high as 7500 ft elevation, and another in the Chisos Basin of Big Bend 5 Jun-9 Jul (MF). A Rose-breasted Grosbeak at Ft. Bliss, El Paso 3 Jun was astray. In the Hill Country, a Yellow-headed Blackbird near Comfort 14 Jul was perhaps southbound (SWie). There was a first McLennan record of Bronzed Cowbird 22 Jun and 2 Jul in China Spring (FBu) and the first nesting record of the species (a Jul fledg- ling) in Lubbock (AF). Two Hooded Orioles were studied carefully near Lockhart, Caldwell 4 Jun (SAS, WaR), probably a first Austin-area record {fide JHan). Rare and sporadic in the summer, a Red Crossbill was in Boot Canyon 22 Jun (JO). An especially late Pine Siskin was in El Paso 6-8 Jun. A few ad. American Goldfinches seen in Jun and Jul in and around Huntsville were also very interesting (BCh, BMu); there is no confirmed nesting in the Pineywoods {fide CSh). ADDENDUM In the previous winter column, I inadvertently overlooked a significant report of a first-winter Iceland Gull described by two observers at S. W.T.P., Dallas 4 Feb 2001 (BG, RR, f to T. B.R.C.). CORRIGENDUM On closer inspection of the video, a Red- necked Grebe reported in w. Texas at Imperial Res. 22 Dec 2000 appears to have been a Horned Grebe. Cited observers (subregional editors in bold- face): Mark Adams (Mad; West Texas HC75, Box 1337-B, Ft. Davis, TX 79734-5016. email: mta@astro.as.utexas.edu). Hazel Bluhm, Peggy Boston, John Brunjes, Tim Brush (TBr), Kelly Bryan, David Bryant, Frank Bumgardner (FBu), Winnie Burkett, Eric Carpenter (ErC), Will & Jan Carter, Brian Chapman (BCh), Gary Clark (GCl), Scarlet & George Coffey (S & GC), Fred Collins, Arlie & Mel Cooksey (A & Mco; South Texas: 15825 Socorro Loope, Corpus Christi, TX 78418. email: arliec@ciris.net). Grant Critchfield (GCr), Claudia de la Cruz (CCr), D. D. Currie, Ross Dawkins, Carol Edwards, to Emanuel, Ted Eubanks, Jesse Fagan (JFa), Tim Fennell, Mark Flippo, Anthony Floyd, Brush Freeman (BFr), Bert Frenz (BeF; East Texas: 221 Rainbow Dr., PMB 12190, Livingston, TX 77399-2021. email: bert@bafrenz.com), John Gee, Brian Gibbons, Richard Gibbons, Kathy Godwin, Mary Ann Grahmann, Jeff Hanson (JHan), Matt Heindel, James Heller, Derek Hill, Petra Hockey (PHo), Don Hunter, Lucy Kay Jalbert, Tom Johnson, John Karges, Richard Kaskan, Ed Kutac, Steve Labuda, Luke Lens, Greg Lisciandro (GLi), Mark Lockwood, Guy Luneau (GLu), John Maresh, Michael Marsden, Brad McKinney (BMc), Sue Morris, Brenda Muncrief (BMu), John O’Brien, Dale Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 457 Ohl, Carolyn Ohl-Kolb, Tom Painting, Jim Paton (JPa), David Phalen (DPh), Barrett Pierce (BPi), Randy Pinkston, Ross Rasmussen, James Ray, Eddie Ray (ERy), Walter Reinhard WaR), Liston Rice, Van & Nancy Robinson, George Russell, Mike Ryan (MRy), Dave Sarkozi (DSa), Sally Ann Satagaj, Monty Scboenbals (MoS), Marcy Scott (MSc), Rosemary Scott (RSc), Willie Sekula (Central Texas: 7063 Co. Rd. 228, Falls City, TX 78113- 2627. email: wsekula@tbe-cia.net), Cbuck Sexton, Ken Seyffert (Panhandle: 2206 S. Lipscomb, Amarillo, TX 79109), Cliff Shackelford (CSh), Ronn Smith (RSm), Aletha Snowden, John Sproul, Jim Stevenson (JSt), Byron Stone (ByS), Rose Marie Stortz, Tom Taroni, Don Verser (DVe), Darrell Vollert (DVo), Peggy Wallace, Richard Webster (RiW), Ron Weeks (Rwe; U.T.C.: 110 Indian Warrior, Lake Jackson, TX 77566. email: igarapet@bra- zosport.cc.tx.us), Don White (DWh), Matt White (MWh) (N.C. Texas: 882 Hwy 50, Campbell, TX 75422. email: mkwhite@903internet.com), John Whittle (JWh), Sue Wiedenfeld, Dan & Shirley Wilkerson, Jennifer Wilson (JWi), David Wolf, Jimmy Zabriskie, Barry Zimmer. a Idaho-Western Montana David Trochlell 1931 Tallwood Lane Boise, Idaho 83706 (dtrochle@qwest.net) The summer of 2001 brought normal to slightly above-normal temperatures and precipitation to the Region. Unfortunately, rainfall was poorly distributed, with storms tracking mainly through northern parts, leav- ing large areas of southern Idaho critically dry. A surprising snowstorm that hit western Montana in early to mid-June was the weath- er event of the season, dumping up to 15 inch- es of wet snow, that caused considerable dam- age to trees and disrupted nesting birds across an extensive area. The summer rains did little to reverse the trend of declining lakes and reservoirs that was set in motion by last win- ter’s deficient snowpack. The inevitable draw- down of these inadequately filled impound- ments resulted in significant nest abandon- ment by waterbirds but provided expansive mudflats that attracted more than usual num- bers of migrating shorebirds. It was a very exciting summer, with new nesting records added for Northern Hawk Owl and Clay-colored Sparrow in Idaho and Black-necked Stilt in western Montana. Just as interesting were rare bird highlights that included the Region’s first Eastern Towhee and second Yellow-throated Warbler. Abbreviations: A.F.R. (American Falls Res., by American Falls, Idaho); Camas (Camas N.W.R., Jefferson, ID); Lee Metcalf (Lee Metcalf N.W.R., Ravalli, MT); I.B.O. (Idaho Bird Observatory at Lucky Peak, near Boise, ID); Market L. (Market Lake W.M.A., Jefferson, ID). LOONS THROUGH MURRELETS A breeding-plumaged Pacific Loon that stayed in Bonner, ID until at least 16 Jun (LH, CS) provided a rare summer record. American White Pelicans were unusually plentiful in s. Idaho, and good numbers were reported n. of typical range: 8 showed up in Boundary, ID 2 Jul (PC), one stopped in Nez Perce, ID 11—12 Jul (KC), and about 20 stayed in Lake, MT (DC) throughout the period. Waders also strayed n., including single Great Egrets near Whitefish, MT 5 Jun (BT) and at Lee Metcalf 9-27 Jul (WT), and a Green Heron at Lee Metcalf 4 Jul (CK). An apparent summering Snow Goose at A.F.R. 13 Jul (BD) was note- worthy. Harlequin Ducks made news in both states: one strayed to Coeur d’Alene L., Kootenai, ID 24 Jun (SL), and a female with hatchlings near Missoula, MT (MCo) 8 Jul provided the 2nd local breeding record in 30-t years. A Long-tailed Duck that showed up in Flathead 20-27 Jul (DC, BR) represented a 2nd summer record for Montana. A “Harlan’s” Red-tailed Hawk in Madison, MT 2 Jun (MB, JP) was at least a month late. 458 North American Birds Texas — Idaho -Western Montana Up to 8 Black-necked Stilts summered and fledged young in Flathead (BR), furnishing w. Montana’s long-anticipated first nesting record. Sadly, Idaho’s only reported Upland Sandpiper was in Bonner 6 Jun (BB); they appear to be dangerously close to extirpation in the Gem State. The best shorebirds of the period were a Whimbrel near Missoula, MT 1 Jun (LW), a very early Stilt Sandpiper at A.F.R. 28—29 Jun (DCl, CT), and a Short-billed Dowitcher in Flathead, MT 31 Jul (BR). Unlike in recent years, a Franklin’s Gull seen at Mann L., ID 3 Jun (KSo) was the only one reported n. of expected range in se. Idaho. Both rare and a bit late was an ad. Arctic Tern that graced A.F.R. 18-25 Jun (DCl, CT). An incredible sighting of an Ancient Murrelet on a remote section of the Middle Fork of the Salmon R., Valley and Lemhi, 26 Jul (MH) provided Idaho’s 5th record. DOVES THROUGH FLYCATCHERS Up to 3 Eurasian Collared-Doves continued near American Falls, ID throughout the peri- od (CT), although no nesting was reported. Yellow-billed Cuckoos are one of Idaho’s most endangered birds, but surprising numbers were reported this season. Up to 4 were dis- covered in Blaine 24 Jun (DT), and singles were found in Idaho Falls 25 Jun (KJ), Bingham 19 Jul (JT), Boise 11 Jul (CSy), Canyon 14 Jul (CSy), and Jefferson 9 Jul (CW). A ground-nesting Flammulated Owl with fledglings found in a burned forest near Darby, MT 15 Jun (KS) was likely unprece- dented. One of the major highlights of the season was the discovery of a pair of Northern Hawk Owls with fledglings at a remote moun- tain lake in Boundary 12 Jul (ph. LB, EC, MCr) that provided Idaho’s first nesting record. An out-of-range Broad-tailed Hummingbird that frequented feeders near Bozeman, MT in early Jun (JP, R&RW) was newsworthy. Two Alder Flycatchers were found in Flathead, MT 10 Jun (DC), where they are less than annual migrants. Idaho’s very local Least Flycatchers were reported at expected loca- tions in Boundary, Camas, and Jefferson throughout the period, but others in Adams 10 Jun (DT), Custer 18 Jun (HR), and Minidoka 22 Jun (SB) were much more unusual. Idaho’s 10th Pacific-slope Flycatcher was captured 23 Jul at I.B.O. (JC), where all records of this enigmatic species have been made. A Scissor-tailed Flycatcher found near Three Forks 10 Jun (BP) was Montana’s 11th. JAYS THROUGH CRACKLES Blue Jays are now considered common resi- dents in Kalispell, MT (DC), but one near Bozeman, MT 22 Jun (JP) was very unusual. A Purple Martin in Broadwater, MT 29 Jul (R&RW) was the Region’s first report in many years. Northern Mockingbirds were unusual- ly scarce in Idaho; 2 in Bingham 14 Jul (JTu) were the only reports. It was an outstanding season for rare Parulidae. The lineup of best warblers included a Tennessee Warbler in Boundary, ID 6 Jun (DD), Idaho’s 4th Northern Parula at Market L. 8 Jun (GR), Idaho’s 10th Magnolia Warbler in Moscow 10 Jun (CS), Idaho’s 2nd Yellow-throated Warbler in Fremont 18 Jun (fDCl, ph. CW), a Black-and-white Warbler in Bingham, ID 1 1 Jun (DM), and single Ovenbirds at Camas 2 Jun (MJ, DT) and near Bozeman, MT 7 Jun (JP). Apparently, Idaho’s Rose-breasted Grosbeak “invasion” continued past the spring season, with singles found in Oneida 2-28 Jun (JS) and near Boise 9-14 Jun (D&EF, m. ob.), and a pair in Jefferson 10 Jun (TK). The bird of the season was the Region’s first Eastern Towhee at Market L. 3-4 Jun (D&EF, m. ob.). Also exciting was the discovery of a pair of Clay-colored Sparrows with nestlings in Bonner 15 Jul (DD, m. ob.) that provided Idaho’s first nesting record. Idaho’s Great- tailed Crackle numbers were the lowest in at least three years, with sightings of 5 that included a fledgling at the resident colony in Marsing, Owyhee, ID 20 Jul (RLR, DT) and a male near A.F.R. 20 Jul (CT). Idaho Common Crackles were observed in Bingham and Fremont, where they are rare but now expect- ed, but singles at Camas 2 Jun (DT) and in Boise 25 Jun (MC) were more unusual. Contributors (subregional editors in bold- face): IDAHO: Larry Barnes, Bob Bond, Steve Bouffard, Jay Carlisle, Keith Carlson, Pat Cole, Earl Chapin, Darren Clark (DCl), Marty Collar (MCr), Mark Collie (MC), Bob Davis, Dean DiTommaso, Kas Dumroese, Dave and Elise Faike, Mace Hack, Lisa Hardy, Karen Jones, Marlin Jones, Tracey King, Merlene Koliner, Steve Lindsay, Joe Lipar, Dale Miller, Greg Rice, Hadley Roberts, Joel Sauder, Kari Sorenson (KSo), Shirley Sturts, Colleen Sweeney (CSy), Charles Swift (CS), Joel Tinsley (JT), David Trochlell, Chuck Trost, Jim Turner (JTu), Cliff Weisse, Poo Wright- Pulliam. MONTANA: Mike Becker, Dan Casey (DC), Michel Colville (MCo), Craig Kuchel, Jeff Marks, John Parker (JP), Jeff Pentel (JPe), Bob Peterson, Bob Rost, Don Skaar, Kristina Smucker (KS), Bruce Tannehill, Wayne Tree, Larry Weeks, Robin & Richard Wolcott. Two Ways TO Give TO ABA 1 Give at tke Office Many companies will match your monthly or payroll deduction gifts as well as your annual gifts to ABA. Just obtain a copy of your company's Matching Gift Application form from your personnel office, fill it out, and send it to ABA. Employer to Matck Tour Gift Take advantage of this easy way to give to ABA conser- vation and education pro- grams. Give us a call and we'll check to see if your employer is on our list of nearly 6,000 companies with matching gift programs, 800/850-2473 or write to us at: ABA Development PO Box 6599 Colorado Springs, CO 80934 Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 459 Mountain West Van A. Truan 1 901 Court Street Pueblo, Colorado 81003 (colobirdvan@juno.com) Brandon K. Percival 835 Harmony Drive Pueblo West, Colorado 81007 (flammowl@juno.com) This summer in the Region appeared normal in temperature and moisture in the southern portions but drier in the northern and western portions. The southern “monsoons” developed early this year and continued through the season. This was especially true in the mountain area of Colorado and in the Denver/Platte River basin. Abbreviations: S.C.L. (Strauss Cabin L., Ft. Collins, Larimer, CO). LOONS THROUGH RAILS A basic-plumaged ad. Pacific Loon was at S.C.L. 16 Jun-31 Jul+ (NK, m. ob.). An ad. Neotropic Cormorant was at Windsor L., Weld 27 Jun (AS). Rarely reported in nw. Colorado, a Double-crest- ed Cormorant was reported from Dinosaur N.M., Mojfat 9 Jun (CD, BW, GG, LC). An ad. Tricolored Heron was at S.C.L. 17-22 Jun (NK, RK, DAL, m. ob.). Colorado’s 6th Reddish Egret, a subad. white morph, frequented Neenoshe Res., Kiovwi 5-3 1 Jul+ (DN, m. ob.). Colorado’s 4th White Ibis, an ad., was at the w. end of J.M.R. 1-2 Jun (TD, DJ, DN, CL). With the overpopu- lation of Snow Goose, summering individuals have become more regular; singles were reported from five Colorado counties, while another was at Table Mt. W.M.A., Goshen, WY 16 & 29 Jun (SJD, WRS). Several Mottled Ducks (or hybrids) were at Rocky Ford W.T.R, Otero 2-4 Jul (DF, JB, TL, MJ, BKP); there are no accepted records of this species in Colorado. A male Ring-necked Duck was at S.C.L. 13 Jun (SJD). A late male Greater Scaup was at Orlando Res., Huerfano 9 Jun (TL, NG), while summer Buffleheads included a late male there 9 Jun (TL, NG) and up to 2 females at S.C.L. 13 Jun-1 1 Jul (SJD, LS, NK). Most unusu- al were summer records of Hooded Merganser: 2 late first-spring males at Ft. Collins, Larimer 1 Jun (DAL); a female at S.C.L. 18 Jun (SJD); 3 females at Bump Sullivan Res., Goshen, WY 29 Jun (SJD); and 2 females at Huerfano Res., Pueblo 28 Jul (CLW, BKP). Colorado’s 5th Common Black-Hawk was an ad. found e. of Montrose 9 Jun (SJD). This record may indicate a potential range expansion, as it was the 3rd record of the species in Colorado this year. An ad. Peregrine Falcon at Adobe Cr. Res., Kiowa/Bent 4 Jul (TL, NG), another ad. at Barr L., Adams 23 Jul (TL, JB), and yet another at Chico Basin Ranch, El Paso 27 Jul (Stacey Scott) were possible breeders on the e. Plains. Most unusual in summer, an ad. Merlin was reported from Black Mountain, Hinsdale in early Jul (PO). ^ M On the evening of 22-23 Jun, the vF^egional editors conducted a rail survey of Bent, Otero, and Pueblo counties in Colorado in an effort to determine where populations of Black RaO occur in se. Colorado and to estimate their num- bers. The effort began at sunset and con- tinued untO approximately 0400. The wind was calm after a large thunder- storm, and temperatures ranged from 92 down to 65 degrees Fahrenheit. The thunderstorm caused several large wet- land areas e. of J.M.R. to remain unsur- veyed. Heard individuals were counted; no playback or prerecorded calls were used to stimulate calling. The areas cov- ered were from the w. end of J.M.R. (high water line/tailwater wetlands); w. along roadside wetland ditches and irrigation tailwater areas; and into Pueblo. Most wetland areas contained vegetation dom- inated by high sedges and rushes 12-40 cm high, with some taller areas of cattail and bulrush. The count total included 85 Virginia Rails, 53 Soras, and an amazing 74 Black Rails, including Pueblo's first Black Rail just e. of Avondale. . Other small populations of Blacks occur in other Arkansas Valley counties, such as Baca, Prowers, Crowley, and Kiowa. Well over 100 Black Rails might have been counted had it been possible to expand the survey area to include other probably suitable wetland areas. CRANES THROUGH SKIMMER Southeast of normal, a pair of Sandhill Cranes fledged 2 young at Glendevey, Larimer 24 Jun, the first breeding record for that county (NK). A late American Golden-Plover was in Larimer 1 Jun (NK). Colorado’s Piping Plover breeding population rebounded from one pair in 1998 to five pairs in 2001. Three pairs successfully fledged 7 young in 2001, the best year since 1997. A female banded in another state joined this population (no one is color-marking Piping Plovers in Colorado; fide DN). High counts of 20 Greater Yellowlegs and 37 Lesser Yellowlegs were tallied at lable Mt. W.M.A., Goshen, WY 29 Jun (SJD). Five Willets at Miramonte Res., San Miguel 26 Jun (CD, BW) were a little early. Noteworthy was a Long-billed Curlew well into the mts. at Blue Mesa Res., Gunnison 16 Jun (DF) and 5 at Table Mt. W.M.A., Goshen, WY 22 Jul (SJD). Also of note were 9 Marbled Godwits at Miramonte Res., San Miguel 26 Jun (CD, BW), a Ruddy Turnstone at Adobe Creek Res., Bent 29 Jul (CLW, BKP), and single Semipalmated and Stilt Sandpipers at Table Mt. W.M.A. 16 Jun (SJD, 460 North American Birds Mountain West A subadult white-morph Reddish Egret (on the right) at Neenoshe Reservoir, Kiowa County, Colorado, entertained local birders from 5 July to the end of the period; it furnished the sixth Regional record. This digiscoped image was taken on 20 July. Photograph by Chris Wood. WRS). Four Red-necked Phalaropes at Bump Sullivan Res., Goshen, WY 22 Jul were the only ones reported (SJD). For the 3rd summer, a Pomarine Jaeger was reported in Colorado: an ad. light morph, at Upper Queens Res. 3 (DF, JB) & 10 Jul (TL, NG) was carefully studied. An ad. Laughing Gull at Adobe Cr. Res. was observed depredating Least Tern nests in mid-Jun (DN). This or another ad. was at Jet L., Kiowa 19-29 Jul (DN, m. ob.). On 19 Jun, 9 Franklin’s GuUs with dependent young were at Walden N.W.R., Jackson (NK); this is the only known breeding site in Colorado. Rare summer visitors, single ad. Herring Gulls were at J.M.R. 3 Jun and Pueblo Res. 24 Jul (both BKP). Possibly the first summer record for the Region, a Glaucous-winged Gull in third-summer plumage was at Boyd Lake S.P., Larimer 16 Jul (DF). An ad. Great Black-backed Gull visited at least five reser- voirs (up to 40 mi distant) in e. Colorado all sum- mer—An one instance, the bird was observed trying to mate with a California Gull (DN et al.). Up to 14 Caspian Terns remained at S.C.L. 3 Jun- 17 Jul (NK, DAL, m. ob.). Single Arctic Terns were described from S.C.L. 17-18 Jun (SJD, m. ob.), Windsor L., Weld 22-27 Jun (SJD, m. ob.), and Bonny Res., Yuma 1 Jul (LS). Despite four consecutive years with high reproductive success, Least Tern numbers in e. Colorado dropped from 33 pairs in 1998 to 25 in 1999, 19 in 2000, and only 20 pairs in 2001. This summer, 31 young fledged (DN). N. of normal was an ad. Least Tern at S.C.L. 25 Jun (SJD). A high count of 32 Black Terns at two sites s. of Alamosa, Alamosa 20 Jul appeared to be breeding. The Region’s first Black Skiinmer was an ad. at Jet L., Kiowa 19-21 Jul (DN, m. ob.). DOVES THROUGH THRUSHES A Eurasian Collared-Dove at Montrose 9 Jun (SJD) was the first West Slope record for Colorado. A pair of White-winged Doves at Pueblo was observed mating 3 Jun, but no young were observed (VAT et al). Black-billed Cuckoo reports included one in Fort Collins, Larimer 10 Jun (NK) and one at Chatfield Kes., Jefferson 28 Jul (AS, JK). Nesting Western Screech-Owls fledged one young at Green R. Campground in Dinosaur N.M., Moffat 12 Jun (CD, BW, GG, LC). Also in Dinosaur N.M., several Burrowing Owls were seen 10 Jun (CD, BW, GG, LC). A male Lesser Nighthawk was seen near Billy Creek S.W.A., Ouray 23 Jul (DF, CLW). A Chaetura swift was observed with Violet-green Swallows near Ridgway, Ouray in Jul (CC). Two Acorn Woodpeckers were w. of Pagosa Springs, Archuleta 10 Jun (SJD). A single Eastern Wood-Pewee was singing at Morrison Park, Jefferson 5 Jun (AS, KS), and another was at Tamarack Ranch S.W.A., Logan 14 Jun (DF). A singing Alder Flycatcher was along the S. Platte s. of Ft. Lupton, Weld 4 Jun (CLW, TL). Rare in the mts., an Eastern Phoebe was at Antero Res., Park 2 Jul (RL). Vermilion Flycatchers again nested at Higbee Cemetery, Otero this summer. N. of normal were an Ash- throated Flycatcher near Lander, WY 2 Jun (DF, m. ob.) and a Cassin’s Kingbird at Table Mt. W.M.A., Goshen, WY 22 Jul (SJD). An ad. female Scissor-tailed Flycatcher was w. of Last Chance, Washington 24 Jun (DR ph.). Rarely reported from the w. slope, a Red-eyed Vireo was noted s. of Olathe along the Uncompahgre R., Montrose 1 Jun (CD, BW). A Winter Wren was seen in R.M.N.P., Boulder 29 Jul (GW). Veery numbers appeared to be higher this year: one w. of Sargents, Gunnison 14 Jun (JB); 7 heard along Trout Cr., Routt 17 Jun (CC); 3 in Left Hand Canyon e. of Ward, Boulder 22 Jun (TL); 2 in Huerfano S.W.A., Huerfano 1 Jul (NG); and one along the Conejos R. w. of Fox Creek, Conejos 1 1 Jul (JB). A Gray-cheeked Thrush was at Flagler S.W.A., Kit Carson 1 Jun (CLW). WARBLERS THROUGH CROSSBILLS It was a good season for rare or uncommon e. warblers lingering or summering in the Region. A male Blue-winged Warbler was in Colorado City, Pueblo 1 Jul (BKP), and a male Golden-winged Warbler in Red Rocks Park, Jefferson 5 Jun (NG, TL, CLW, AS). A male Northern Parula was s. of Cook L., WY 24 Jun (Nick Block). Chestnut-sided Warbler reports included 3 males: Pass Cr., n. of La Veta, Huerfano 6 Jun (DAL); Colorado City, Pueblo 8 Jun (DS); and a late bird on the Apex Trail, Jefferson 22 Jul (DF). An early Townsend’s Warbler was near Canon City, Fremont 31 Jul (AV). A male Prairie Warbler along the Apex Trail 21 Jul (CLW) provided one of the few summer records for this species in Colorado. A male Blackpoll Warbler in Dearlodge Park, Moffat 9 Jun was a late migrant (CD, BW, GG, LC). Single Black-and-white Warblers included a male at Castlewood Canyon S.P., Douglas 24 Jun (LS) and a female w. of Ft. Collins, Larimer 9 Jul (BKP, DB, m. ob.). A male Kentucky Warbler was a prize in Colorado City, Puebb 29 Jun (BKP, SC, DS). A male Summer Tanager was discovered at Sawhill Ponds in Boulder 24 Jun (MP). Several Savannah Sparrows were reported above 11,800 ft in the S. San Juan Wilderness Area, s. of Platoro Reservoir, Conejos (SA). Rare in summer, a male Northern Cardinal was at Rocky Ford, Otero 28 Jul (CLW, BKP). Rare in the mts. w. of the Continental Divide, a male Rose-breasted Grosbeak was found in Vail, Eagle 10-1 1 Jun (Bob Righter), whOe an ad. male Indigo Bunting at Lander, WY 8 Jun was a good find there (DF, m.ob.). Both species strayed strongly w. in the previous spring. A male Bobolink was displaying near La Veta, Huerfano 28 Jun (TL, NG). Two Scott’s Orioles were detected along the Ninaview B.B.S. route, Las Animas 6 Jun (CLW, BKP). A pair of White-winged Crossbills, scarce in sum- mer, were ne. of Rico, Dolores 4 Jul (CD, BW). Contributors: Susan AUerton, Larry Arnold, Jason Beason, Sherry Chapman, Lisa Claussen, Cameron Cox ,Tim Davis, Coen Dexter, Stephen J. Dinsmore, Doug Faulkner, J.B. Hayes, Glenn Giroir, Nancy Gobris, Mark Janos, Dave Johnson, Rachel Kolokoff, Nick Komar, David A. Leatherman, Cici Lee, Tony Leukering, Rich Levad, Jack Merchant, Duane Nelson, Pat O’DonneD, Brandon K. Percival, Myron Plooster, Bob Righter, David Ruberstein, Karleen Schofield, Chris Schultz, Larry Semo, Randy Siebert, W. Ross SOcock (WRS), David Silverman, Andrew Spencer, Van A. Truan, Alan Versaw, Glenn Walbek, Christopher L. Wood, Brenda Wright, Mark Yaeger. /) Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 461 Great Basin Ted Floyd Great Basin Bird Observatory One East First Street, Suite 500 Reno, Nevada 89501 (gbbo@altavista.com) It is usually hot and dry during the summer months in the Great Basin, and this year was no exception. In Reno, only 2.8 in of precipita- tion had fallen in the twelve-month period ending 30 June 2001 — making it the driest fis- cal year in more than a century. In the minds of many birders, low water is associated with good shorebird conditions; but there was no water at all in many of our wetlands, especially in the western part of the Region. Consequently, shorebirds were scarce or simply absent at most sites except for the Great Salt Lake. The “fall” shorebird flight seemed to be somewhat early, with boreal and Arctic breeders showing up in southern Nevada by the end of June. The dry weather throughout the West was thought to be connected with the appearance of several southern vagrants in our Region. Abbreviations: A.I.C. (Antelope Island Causeway, Duvis, UT); B.C. (Big Canyon, Washoe, NV); B.R., Bodyfeldt Ranch {Nye, NV); C.L. (Carson L., Churchill, NV); C.C. (Corn Cr., Clark, NV); RS.N.W.R. (Fish Springs N.W.R., Juab, UT); H.B.V.R, (Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve, Clark, NV); L.L. (Lead L., Churchill, NV); M.V.W. (Meadow Valley Wash, Lincoln, NV); M.R.S. (Miller’s Rest Stop, Esmeralda, NV); O.C.T. (Ophir Creek Trail, Washoe, NV); W.S.R. (Warm Springs Ranch, Clark, NV). Records marked with a dagger (t) were doc- umented with a written description. Records marked with an asterisk (’^) are subject to review by the appropriate state records com- mittees. BIHERNS THROUGH FALCONS Two Least Bitterns — an apparent pair — ^at Pahranagat N.W.R., Lincoln, NV 16 Jun (JC) were the only report of the species. Green Herons were noted at three southerly locations: along the Muddy River, Clark, NV throughout Jun (JW & NM); in M.V.W. 7 Jul (SS); and at Berry Springs Marsh, Washington, UT, where a nest with 4 young was discovered 22 Jul (RF & RD). A female Wood Duck with chicks at the Carson R. Diversion Dam, Churchill, NV 8 Jun (TL, MM) provided the only confirmed breed- ing record for the season. A Northern Pintail with 3-4 young in M.V.W. 7 Jul (SS) represent- ed a southerly extreme for breeding in the state. The Blue-winged Teal is an uncommon breed- er in the Great Basin; this summer, there were reports from Saltair, Salt Lake, UT 18 Jun (CN) and from four Nevada locations 2 Jun— 14 Jul (v. o.). Canvasback is rare in s. Utah during the summer, so the individual at Stratton Pond, Washington, UT 8-22 Jul (RD) was notable. Also notable was a pair of Ring-necked Ducks at Mountain Home, Duchesne, UT 4 Jul (BR & LR). There were 2—3 Common Goldeneyes at H.B.V.R during the surprising time span of 29 Jun-15 Jul (RS & JC). A Red-breasted Merganser at Parowan, Iron, UT 12 Jul (RD) was unusual. A dark-morph Ruddy Duck at H.B.V.R 5-20 Jul (ph. JS et al.) was interesting. Summering or breeding Ospreys were noted at four locales in nw. Nevada (v. o.), and a breeding pair at Deer Creek Res., Wasatch, UT had fledged one young bird by 22 Jul (JB, KB). A Mississippi Kite C^) was a one-day wonder at W.S.R. 6 Jun (ph. JW). Summering Bald Eagles were found at two spots in the Carson Range of w. Nevada: at Galena County Rark, Washoe 3 Jun (LW et al.) and at Spooner L., Douglas 11 Jun {fide LW). Red-shouldered Hawks were seen at three Nevada locations 13-31 Jul (v. o.) and at RS.N.W.R. 16-19 Jul ( JC). A Zone-tailed Hawk f”^) was at W.S.R. 6 Jun (JW). Reregrine Falcons were found at three Nevada locations 5 Jun-14 Jul (v. o.) and at A.J.C. 21 Jul (DJ, LJ). SHOREBIRDS THROUGH TERNS At least 7000 American Avocets were at L.L. by the early date of 20 Jun (BH), and more than 11,000 were at C.L. 25 Jul (TF). The first Greater Yellowlegs showed up at H.B.V.R on the somewhat early date of 29 Jun (RS). The only Lesser Yellowlegs was a single bird at H.B.V.R. 1 Jul (RS). Solitary Sandpipers were reported from H.B.V.R. 15 Jul (JC) and Lake Shore, Utah, UT 22—31 Jul (v. o.). A Wandering Tattler C^), first reported in May, continued at A.I.C. until 3 Jun (v. o.). Some 30 Marbled Godwits were at L.L. on the slightly early date of 20 Jun (BH). Three Red Knots were at Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge, Box Elder, UT 26 Jul (CN, TS). Several Sanderlings, leftovers from the strong passage in May, lingered at A.I.C. until 4 Jun (KC); meanwhile southbound Sanderlings at four Utah locales 9-31 Jul were led by 26 at A.I.C. 27 Jul (EC). The White-rumped Sandpiper (*) flock at Ouray N.W.R., Uintah, UT had dwindled to 2 by 10 Jun (v. o.), and a lone bird made a sur- prise appearance at RS.N.W.R. 6 Jun (JBa). A Baird’s Sandpiper at C.L. 25 Jul (TF) was the state’s only report, but reports from three Utah locales 13-27 Jul (v. o.) were led by 43 at Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge, Box Elder, UT 27 Jul (EC). An early Rectoral Sandpiper was at Raragonah Rond, Iron, UT 14 Jul (RD). Two Stilt Sandpipers were at Rrovo Airport Dike, Utah, UT 31 Jul (DS et al.). At least 6000 Long- billed Dowitchers were at C.L. by 25 Jul (TF). Some 4000 Wilson’s Rhalaropes gathered at L.L. 20 Jun (BH), and 10,000-)- were at C.L. by 25 Jul (TF). The Red-necked Rhalarope maximum was 800-f at -Soda Lake, Carson, NV 25 Jul (TF). The highest count of Franklin’s Gull was of 4266 at A.I.C. 21 Jul (DJ 8( LJ). A Herring Gull was at the unusual location of Quichapa L., 462 North American Birds Great Basin This adult Mississippi Kite photographed on 6 June was one of many outstanding regional records from Warm Springs Ranch, Clark County, Nevada in the early summer of 2001 . Photograph by Jack Walters. Iron, UT on the unusual dates of 5-8 Jun (tRD). Common Terns made a good early showing in Utah, with reports at three locales 18-22 Jul led by 17 at the Geneva settling ponds, Utah 18 Jul (RSt); meanwhile, a single Common Tern at the Ruby L. Fish Hatchery, Elko, NV 28 Jun (WW) was notable. A Least Tern (*) at the Geneva settling ponds, Utah, UT 22 Jul (JB & KB) was a great find. C /V recendy, the Upper Muddy R. W*^Valley of Clark County, Nevadawas- n’t even on the radar screens of most birders. During field work for the N^vMcl Breeding Bird Atlas (1997-2000), however, • this drainage was discovered to harbor breeding Clapper Rails, Yellow-billed Cuckoos, Vermilion Flycatchers, Brown- crested Flycatchers, and Cassin’s Kingbirds. The Upper Muddy R. has also emerged as a prime spot for passerine vagrants and stray raptors. In 2001, researchers from the Great Basin Bird Observatory and the University of Nevada at Reno conducted bird surveys along the river, to try to get a quantitative handle on breeding bird densities in the val- ley. One site alone — ^the privately held Warm Springs Ranch — supported 10+ pairs each of Yellow-billed Cuckoos and Vermilion Flycatchers. Meanwhile, strays such as Mississippi Kite, Zone-taOed Hawk, Worm-eating Warbler, and multiple Rose- breasted Grosbeaks were found right through the summer season at Warm Springs Ranch. DOVES THROUGH VIREOS Eurasian Collared-Doves {*) stormed into Nevada this summer. A bird along the Muddy River, Clark 1 Jun (NM 8c KM) was a proba- ble state first, and an individual at Panaca, Lincoln 1 Jul (ph., tSS) was well described. By 11 Jul, there were 2 at Panaca (SS). A Band- tailed Pigeon at B.R. 8 Jun (DT) was unusual. White-winged Doves are regular in Nevada only in the far s. reaches of Clark, it was notable, then, that the species was reported from five n. Clark locales during the report- ing period (v. o.). An amazing 14-15 Yellow- billed Cuckoos were at W.S.R. in late Jun (tPSu, JW et ah), and singles were noted at B.R. 7-8 Jun (JBr, DT), along the lower Provo River, Utah, UT 3—4 Jul (DS et ah), and at Lytle Ranch, Washington, UT 22 Jul (RF et ah). A possible Elf Owl (*) was heard at Lytle Ranch, Washington, UT 21-22 Jul (RF et al); the species has occurred here in the recent past. A well-described female Magnificent Hummingbird (*) was at Stout Canyon, Kane, UT 24 Jun (fSS & PS). An Anna’s Hummingbird was at Reno until 23 Jun (RR). At least 6 “fall” migrant Selasphorus hum- mingbirds were back at the O.C.T. 1 Jul (JD 8c TF). Two Acorn Woodpeckers were at Devil’s Canyon, San Juan, UT 26 Jun (DG). An Olive-sided Flycatcher at the low-eleva- tion site of B.C. 31 Jul (FP) was early. A Contopus flycatcher at C.C. 7 Jun was a good match for Eastern Wood-Pewee (*'), both in terms of plumage seen and vocalizations heard (tRS); the observer did not get to study the bird long enough to make a definitive identification, however. Black Phoebes at Rancho San Rafael Park, Washoe, NV 24 Jul (FP) and at B.C. 31 Jul (FP) were northerly; meanwhile, 8 birds were counted in M.V.W. 7 Jul (SS). Vermilion Flycatchers numbered in the double digits at W.S.R. in Jun (PSu et al.), and singles were found at three other Clark locations 14 Jun-24 Jul (v. o.). Brown-crested Flycatchers at five Nevada locales 2-20 Jun (v. o.) were led by an impressive 6 birds at W.S.R. 20 Jun (JW). A silent Myiarchus flycatcher at M.R.S. 14 Jun was thought to be a possible Dusky-capped Flycatcher (’*'; tJBr). Cassin’s Kingbirds numbered one to 5 at four Nevada locales 9 Jun-28 Jul (v. o.). An Eastern Kingbird strayed to B.R. 2 Jun (JB et al.). A Bell’s Vireo at Tonopah 2 Jun (GS et al.) was northerly. A belated report of 2 singing Gray Vireos in the Palmetto Mountains, Esmeralda, NV 27 May (JD) was noteworthy; this area is well to the n. and w. of where the species was documented during the recently completed Nevada Breeding Bird Atlas (1997-2000). A possible Philadelphia Vireo (*) was reported from M.R.S. 10 Jun (JBr), and a Red-eyed Vireo (*) was at Boyd Siding, Lincoln, NV 7 Jul (tSS). SWALLOWS THROUGH WARBLERS Purple Martins were confirmed as breeders in Spanish Fork Canyon, Utah, UT 1 1—12 Jul (KC et al.). A juv. Black-capped Chickadee was net- ted at the Mary’s R. banding station, Elko, NV 29 Jul (KV). A singing Winter Wren was at Chimney Beach, Washoe, NV 14 Jul (TF); the species remains unconfirmed as a Nevada breeder. At least 6 American Dippers remained in downtown Reno until 23 Jun (TF, KS). A possible Veery (*) was reported from Tonopah 2 Jun (JBr, DT). Migrant Swainson’s Thrushes included 2 at Tonopah 2 Jun (JBr, DT) and 3 at B.R. (JBr, DT) also 2 Jun; mean- while, a lone Swainson’s Thrush at Navajo Lake, Kane, UT 1 Jul (SS & PS) indicated pos- sible breeding well to the s. of the species’s nor- mal range. Unusual was a Hermit Thrush seen at a nest in riparian habitat on the canyon floor at Zion N.P., Washington, UT 2 Jun (SS et al.). The last Catharus thrush of the spring migra- tion was an unidentified individual at C.C. 7 Jun (RS). One or 2 Gray Catbirds were at B.R. 2-10 Jun (JBr et al.), and reports from four Utah locales were led by 6 at North Arm Natural Area, Weber 3-24 Jun (CD et al.). A tardy Cedar Waxwing at C.C. 14 Jun (JC) was way to the s. of the species’s breeding range in Nevada, while 6 northerly Phainopeplas at Duncan Creek, Iron, UT were a 2nd county record (SS). Warblers of note included the following: a Golden- winged Warbler (*) a little ways to the w. of Eureka, Juab, UT 16 Jun (EH); single Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 463 Northern Parulas (*) at B.R. 14 Jun (JBr) and at Springville, Utah, UT 15 Jun (JH et al.); a singing Chestnut-sided Warbler {*) at Yerington, Lyon, NV 6 Jun (CR, DH) and another at B.R. on the unusual date of 9 Jul (JBr); one or 2 Blaclc-throated Blue Warblers (*) at B.R. 8-10 Jun (JBr, DT); a tardy IVIyrtle Warbler at B.C. 8 Jun (TF, TL); 2 early Audubon’s Warblers at Duncan Creek, Iron, UT 29 Jul (SS) and 5-6 at B.C. 31 Jul (FP>; an early Townsend’s Warbler at Aspen Grove, Utah, UT 27 Jul (EH); a Black-and-white Warbler at B.R. 2 Jun (JBr et al.); American Redstarts at three Nevada locales 2-30 Jun (v. o.); a Worm-eating Warbler (*) at W.S.R. 1 Jul (GS); an Ovenbird (*) at B.R. 2 Jun (JBr); sin- gle Northern Waterthrushes at M.R.S. 1 Jun (JBr & DT) and at C.C. 5-7 Jun (RS); and sin- gle Hooded Warblers {*) at Dyer, Esmeralda, NV 3 Jun (DT et al.) and Capitol Reef N.P., 'Wayne, UT 27 Jun-3 Jul (TC); the latter bird, a male, was banded there. TANAGERS THROUGH FINCHES A Summer Tanager at Dyer, Esttteralda, NV 3 Jun (GS) and 2 at B.R. 12 Jul (JBr) were some- what northerly, while a stray to Holladay, Salt Lake, UT 7 Jul (SC) was well to the n. of its nor- mal range. Meanwhile, a good 9 individuals were tallied in M.V.W. 7 Jul (SS). An Abert’s Towhee at Pueblo Park, Clark, NV 4 Jul was notable; the species is highly sedentary in Nevada and had never before been reported from this location (RS). A Grasshopper Sparrow {*) near Caliente, Lincoln, NV was seen carrying food or a fecal sac (fWW), and 2 birds were noted at A.I.C., Davis, UT 3 Jun ( JB, KB). Lincoln’s Sparrow is poorly documented as a breeder in Nevada, so the following records were of note: 4 ads. on the O.C.T. 1 Jul, includ- ing an individual seen carrying food (JD, TF); at least 6 ads. in Lamoille Canyon, Elko 10 Jul, including 3 seen feeding young (MP, LP). Stray Rose-breasted Grosbeaks lingered at four Nevada locales 1 Jun— 3 Jul (v. o.), but the only Utah report was an ad. male at F.S.N.W.R. 30 Jun (JBa). A male Painted Bunting {*) at Providence, Cache, UT 20-25 Jun (JL, WL), if accepted by the Utah records committee, would be the first or 2nd for the state. Indigo Buntings at five Nevada locales included 3 males in M.V.W. 7 Jul (SS); meanwhile, there were reports of single birds at three Utah locales 24 Jun-8 Jul (v. o.). Two Bobolinks were seen near Lamoille, Elko, NV 27 Jul (JE & SW), and one was at Goshen Canyon, Juab, UT 8 Jul (EH). A possible Common Crackle {*) was at Tonopah, Nye, 9 Jul (tJBr). Northerly Hooded Orioles were found at Reno, Washoe, NV 29 Jun (BG) and at Fallon, Churchill, NV 30 Jul (MA). Multiple rosy-fmches atop Mount Grant, Mineral, NV 22 Jun (LW) were interesting. Given the proximity of this site to the Sierra Nevada, it seems most likely that the rosy- finches were Gray-crowned — a species that could not be confirmed as a breeder during the Breeding Bird Atlas work (1997-2000). Two or 3 Pine Grosbeaks on the O.C.T. 1 Jul (JD, TF) were the only report. Red Crossbills were pres- ent in good numbers in the Carson Range, Washoe, NV, but the only other Nevada report was of 3 birds at Mt. Moriah, White Pine 28 Jul (JE 8c SW). A black-backed Lesser Goldfinch at Oxbow Park, Washoe, NV 26 Jul (JEl) was interesting; this form is occasionally reported from our Region. Observers: Mike Amos, Jay Banta (JBa), Joel Beyer, Kathy Beyer, John Brack (JBr), Steve Gary H. Rosenberg P.O.Box 91856 Tucson, Arizona 85752-1856 ghrosenberg@theriver.com Roy M. Jones 2237 North Sunset Drive Tempe, Arizona 85281 barbet@primenet.eom Carr, K.C. Childs, Tom Clark, Jack Cochran, Ed Conrad, Carol Davis, Rob Dobbs, Jon Dunn, Jim Eidel, Joanne Ely (JEl), Ted Floyd, Rick Fridell, Jim Graham, Dana Green, Bill Grossi, Dan Harmon, Bill Henry, Jesse Huffaker, Eric Huish, Dan Johnston, Laura Johnston, Tim Lenz, John Lisonbee, Wendy Lisonbee, Karen McDonal, Neil McDonal, Martin Meyers, Colby Neuman, Ered Petersen, Mark Ports, Lois Ports, Chris Randolph, Bruce Robinson, Lynn Robinson, Ron Rovansek, Terry Sadler, Rick Saval, Greg Scyphers, Bryan Shirley, Dennis Shirley, Kei Sochi, Reed Stone (RSt), Je Anne Strott, Polly Sullivan (PSu), Priscilla Summers, Steve Summers, Dennis Trousdale, Ken Voget, Jack Walters, Walter Wehtje, Stuart White, Larry Williams. a The summer season saw good breeding pro- ductivity, which will likely help many species recover from the drought conditions of the past several years. By July, Juveniles of many passerine species were being seen in good numbers. Although the season started at an above-average level of rainfall, our typical monsoon pattern dried up early, leaving vege- tation browner than normal. The period was marked with several quality birds: Harlequin Arizona 464 North American Birds Great Basin — Arizona Duck, Western Gull, and Tropical Parula all made only their second appearances in the state, while Eastern Wood-Pewee and Cresent- chested Warbler, two other accidentals, were also reported. Abbreviations: A.B.C. (Arizona Bird Committee), A.V.S.T.P. (Avra Valley Waste Water Treatment Plant); H.R.P. (Hassayampa River Preserve); S.T.P. (sewage treatment plant); W.W.D. (Whitewater Draw Wildlife Area). GREBES THROUGH HAWKS Although there was no sign of breeding, Eared Grebes were found in the southeast during Jul; 2 were at W.W.D. 6 Jul (PS, JM), and one was at Willcox 9 Jul (B&JS), with 3 present there 28 Jul (MMS). Western Grebes were noted away from known breeding areas in the state: one at Avra Valley S.T.P. 10 Jun (JH, JHi) and several, with one Clark’s, at W.W.D. 1 Jun (SH). American White Pelicans are rarely found in the southeast, and it is even more unusual to find large concentrations there. This summer, 50—65 were counted at W.W.D. 22 Jun+ (m. ob.). Post-breeding subad. Brown Pelicans show up almost annually in the s.-cen. part of the state, especially along the lower Gila R. drainage; therefore, one found in sw. Phoenix 16 Jun (RD) was not unexpected, but another individual found at W.W.D. 6 Jul-I- (PS, JM) was more unusual. The population of Neotropic Cormorants that has been present the past several years along the confluence of the Salt and Gila Rivers in e. Maricopa contin- ued to flourish this summer, with as many as 40 seen 24 Jun (TC); although breeding has yet to be confirmed here, there is little doubt that it has taken place. Other reports away from Patagonia L. were of 6 at Arivaca L. 24 Jun (MMS) and an individual at Arizona City 20- 23 Jul (TC et ah). Least Bitterns were found away from previ- ously known locations at Castle Rock in ne. Tucson 8 Jul (BN) and Safford 19 Jul (JW). From the Gulf of California, wandering imm. herons included a Tricolored at Reid Park, Tucson 8-21 Jul (SS, ph. MMS et ah), and a “calico” Little Blue at Safford 19 Jul (JW); both are still considered casual in the state. Of the many Cattle Egrets reported during the sum- mer, reports of individuals carrying nesting material and of at least 3 “scruffy young” at a large heron rookery near Thatcher 17 & 19 Jul (BM, JW) were of particular interest and con- firmed nesting at a new location in the state. Noteworthy White-faced Ibis reports included up to 6 sw. of Phoenix 23 Jun-7 Jul (TC, PM) and 3 on 6 Jul at W.W.D. (PS, JM); last year’s nesting colony along the Colorado R. remains the only breeding record for Arizona. Casual during the summer away from known breeding areas, 3 Wood Ducks were at Kingfisher Pond 23 Jul (CDB). Gadwall breed- ing continued for the 2nd year at Nogales, where three family groups were reported at Palo Duro Cr. Golf Course pond 23 Jun-5 Jul (BW, MMS). Other lingering or early arriving ducks were 2 American Wigeon at Nogales 23 Jun (BW) and an individual at Reid Park 25 Jun (MMS), and 2 Northern Pintails at W.W.D. 16 Jul (SH). Ring-necked Ducks were observed at Willcox 1 Jun (SH) and at Tucson’s Agua Caliente Park 9 Jun (JH, MMS), and a single Lesser Scaup was still at Phoenix 16 Jun (MC). Very exciting was Arizona’s 2nd Harlequin Duck, which was found and remained along the Colorado R. in the Grand Canyon from 7— 30 Jun+ (CL, M8cHY). Interestingly enough, some observers attempted and were able to identify this bird from the rim of the canyon. Oh, what a good scope will do! Ospreys in the s. are always of interest dur- ing the season; individuals were at Arivaca L. 16 Jun (JH, CS) and Willcox 18 Jun (GB). Very unusual and n. of known breeding sites, a sin- gle Mississippi Kite was observed at Flagstaff 21 Jun (TK), and a little s. and w. of there at Chino Valley, up to 4 were present, including 2 ad. and 2 imm. birds 1 Jun-I- (EM, CST, RDu); both were the first local records. An extralimi- tal Gray Hawk was away from favored habitat at Fort Bowie National Historic Site 29 Jul (SW), and the pair of Red-shouldered Hawks that nested at H.R.P. last year was once again present throughout the period. They apparent- ly made another attempt at raising young, though to date we have received no reports as to their success (NL). A Sandhill Crane report- ed at Luna L. in mid-Jul (DT) was unusual. STILTS THROUGH HUMMINGBIRDS This appeared to have been a very good year for Black-necked Stilts; unusually high concen- trations included 100 at Tucson 13 Jul (MMS) and 65 at the A.V.S.T.P. 17 Jul (MMS). A Semipalmated Plover at the A.V.S.T.P. 16 Jul (JH) was early. Migrant Willets are always of interest; 2 were at Willcox 1 Jun (SH) and another 2 at A.V.S.T.P. 5 Jul (MMS). The only Marbled Godwit reported was one at W.W.D. 27 Jul (MMS et al.). A rare fall transient, a sin- gle ad. Semipalmated Sandpiper was at the A.V.S.T.P. 21 Jul (CDB). Somewhat early. Stilt Sandpipers were one each at A.V.S.T.P. and Willcox, both 25 Jul (JH, GB). The only Short- billed Dowitcher of the season was at A.V.S.T.P. 13 Jul (JH). Early by about a month was the Common Snipe at Willcox 25 Jul (CDB, LB). A casual wanderer from the Mexican coast, a Laughing Gull was at W.W.D. 26 Jul+ (RT, AC, NMC et al.). One of the best birds of the sea- son was the state’s 2nd Western Gull found at the Green Valley S.T.P. 4-15 Jul (ph. BS, MMS et al.). The only other state record is of an imm. bird at Parker Dam in Dec 1946. Unfortunately for many, the plant was closed and off-limits at the time, causing most birders to miss the third-year gull. As an aside, it seems probable that this bird was indeed the large dark-mantled gull seen flying over Tucson 24 Jun (DS). A casual transient, single Caspian Terns were reported sw. of Phoenix 24 Jun (TC) and in Gilbert 15 Jul (DC). Black Terns were found in average numbers, with singles at Nogales and at the Green Valley S.T.P. 16 Jul (MMS, RH, PS) and 2 present at W.W.D. 21 Jul (KK). Another larid of great interest this sea- son was Elegant Tern: 2 different individuals were found, one at A.V.S.T.P. 18-29 Jul (RT, BB et al.; ph. GHR) and the other at W.W.D. 21 Jul (KK, NMC, AC, AM). The Avra Valley individ- ual was found dead 31 Jul (MI, *Univ. of Arizona). Still casual in the state, a Least Tern was discovered at W.W.D. 30 Jul (RP, BM). This is particularly interesting, as most of the state’s records are from late spring or early summer. Eurasian Collared-Doves continued to be reported at previously known sites: Willcox, Sierra Vista, Palo Verde, and Cameron, with new reports coming from Thatcher (JW). A wandering Common Nighthawk was heard at Tucson 20 Jun (JB). Rare and irregular, a heard-only Buff-collared Nightjar was in Chino Canyon 16 Jul-t (DQ, J&RH). Always of interest, a White-eared Hummingbird nest with 3 young was discovered in Greenhouse Canyon in the Chiricahua Mts. 31 Jul (MS, RT), and Berylline Hummingbirds once again nested in Ramsey Canyon 28 Jun (MP, CC et al.). The hummer of the season was definitely the Plain-capped Starthroat found in French Joe Canyon 25 Jul+ (BS, MI, MMS, JB et al.). An extralimital Elegant Trogon was found 9 Jul in the Rincon Mts., which is the n. limit of the species’s breeding range (RHa). FLYCATCHERS THROUGH BLACKBIRDS An Eastern Wood-Pewee was seen and heard along the San Pedro R. at Fairbank 13 Jun (JM). If accepted by the A.B.C., this would be only the 8th state record. From year to year, the breeding range and number of individual Tropical Kingbirds seems to expand and con- tract in the state. This year was one of expan- sion. Nesting was documented in Maricopa for only the 2nd time when a pair raised a single fledgling at H.R.P. 30 Jun (JW), and on 28 Jul, an impressive 40 pairs were estimated along a Volume 55 {2001), Number 4 465 A BIRDER'S GUIDE TO METROPOLITANAREAS OF NORTH AMERICA Paul^Lehman. Editor AME.R'^C A^_vB I R DJ N GJ ^ SOC |AT)ON_ Available from ABA SALES 800/634-7736 • Fax: 800/590-2473 Email: abasales@abasales Web: www.americanbirding.org Paul E. Lehman, compiler ABA Birdfinding Guide Series, published 2001; 504 pages; wire-O This is the first guide to cover North America city-by-city, visiting most of the significant habitats on the conti- nent, among them some of the best birding sites in the U.S. and Canada. More than 400 sites include close-in urban parks and preserves as well as more-distant locations up to two hours from the downtown center. Item #234, ABA Sales Price $26.95 15-mi section of the Santa Cruz R. between Tubac and Ruby Road (TC). This area is pri- marily privately owned and is known to con- tain the most persistent and largest breeding population in the state and country. Casual in Arizona, the Maricopa Scissor-tailed Flycatcher from last year seems to have returned to the Phoenix area again. This year it was found 10 Jul-t (SK, SG et ah). Vagrant vireos were well represented this summer; a White-eyed was in Whitetail Canyon, Chiricahua Mts. 4 Jul (BB, RT); many people saw a Yellow-throated in Miller Canyon 24 Jun-5 Jul (JH, SG, audiotape CDB); a Yellow-green was found in Portal 14 Jul (DJ); and a Red-eyed was along Harshaw Cr. 20 Jul (RH, JLD, audiotape PD). All are either acci- dental or casual. Gray Catbirds were discov- ered in a couple of new Apache locations along Nutrioso Cr. 22 Jul and at the Wenima Wildlife Area (DR, GC). The Cresent-chested Warbler first found at Bog Springs in Madera Canyon 24 May con- tinued until at least 1 Jun (BM, MMS). This constitutes only the 5th state record. Northern Parula, a rare transient, was at Cave Cr. Canyon 24 Jun (CG). Perhaps the most exciting find of the season was the singing Tropical Parula that was in Miller Canyon 20 Jun— 14 Jul (JB, MMS, BP, vt. GHR, audiotape CDB et al.). The bird’s prominent black mask and broad white wing- bars make it likely to have been the expected w. Mexican race nigrilora. This was only the 2nd state record, the other record found under sim- ilar circumstances in Madera Canyon in 1984. Other interesting warbler reports included a Yellow-throated 5 Jul in Casa Grande (NB); a Black-and-white at Rustler Park 19 Jun (BB); an American Redstart at Arivaca Cienega 6 Jul (NM, SJ et al.); and a Prothonotary in Cave Creek Canyon 15 Jul (CG). Four individual Ovenbirds were found this summer: at Canyon Creek, Mogollon Rim 3 Jun (TC), San Francisco Peaks 4 Jun (JG), French Joe Canyon 24 Jun (SC), and Tumacacori National Monument 7 Jul (one banded; WT). About normal, 2 Kentucky Warblers were reported, singles at Cave Creek Canyon 5 Jun (SW, CG) and Ash Canyon in the Huachuca Mts. 1 Jul (TC). Three singing MacGillivray’s Warblers, dis- covered in a previously unknown breeding location, were along Canyon Cr. on the Mogollon Rim 3 Jun (TC). A single Hooded Warbler was found at Whitetail Canyon 24 Jun (RT, CG), up to 2 were sw. of Prescott 1 Jun-7 Jul-i- (CT), and another single was at Cave Springs 10 Jul (GR, TL). Red-faced Warbler was confirmed nesting for the first time in Maricopa at Slate Creek Divide 10 Jun (SG). One or more Rufous-capped Warblers have been present in French Joe Canyon for several years now, and this year nesting was confirmed there when individuals were seen carrying nesting material on 14 Jun (NP, SH). The true picture of Flame-colored Tanager in Arizona is made very convoluted by the presence of so many birds that show characteristics of Western Tanager. Interesting and probable hybrid tanagers were once again the subjects of conversations in Arizona this year, with reports of such birds in Miller and Carr canyons. A bird thought to have been a pure Flame-col- ored Tanager was seen in Miller Canyon 1 1 Jul (JB, MMS etal.). Late Green-tailed Towhees were individuals at Portal 19 Jun (NMC) and at Kingfisher Pond 14 Jun (SH). A rare transient, single Rose-breasted Grosbeaks were at Phoenix 17 Jun (BG), Oak Creek Canyon 18 Jun (DH),and at Flagstaff 15 Jul (DH). Indigo Buntings were widely reported this summer, with the highest concentration being 15 individuals along the Santa Cruz R. near Tubac 28 Jul (TC). The sta- tus of Painted Bunting has certainly changed over the last decade. Previously all reports (a couple every fall) were heavily scrutinized as possible escaped cage birds from the Nogales area. This year, as an example, we received too many reports to list. Peak movements seemed to be during the last week of Jul. Rare during the summer in the southeast, flocks of Yellow- headed Blackbirds were at A.V.S.T.P. 30 Jun (MMS) and Willcox 9 Jul (B8cJS). Contributors: Chris D. Benesh, Bill Berky, Louis Bevier, Barbara Bickel, Gavin Bieber, Jerry Bock, Ned Boyajian, Jim Burns, Cliff Cathers, Dale Clark, Troy Corman, Alan Craig, Gary Crandall, Diana Davis, Jon Dunn, Jeff Estis, Steve Ganley, Clive Green, Chet Gresham, Jodi Griffith, Bill Grossi, Robbie R. Duerksen, Hannawacker, Jay Hand, Sherry Hayes, Stuart Healy, Diana Herron, John Higgins, Dottie Hook, Rich Hoyer, J. Hudson, Kelly Hutton, Marshall Iliff, Dave Jasper, S 8c R Johnsen, Sue Katz, Ken Kertell, Bill Massey, Matthew Matthiesen, Janine McCabe, Norma Miller, Narca Moore-Craig, Steve Moore, John Mueller, Richard Palmer, Nathan Pieplow, Brigid Pollock, Mark Pretti, Donna Roten, Peter Salomon, Mark Schalcker, Bob 8c Jean Scheibe, Bob Schutsky, Bill Scott, Judy Stevens, Mark M. Stevenson, Rick Taylor, Carl Tomoff, Will Turner, Dave Quady, Billy Weber, John Wilson, Richard Wilt, Joanne Woodley. 466 North American Birds New Mexico Sartor 0. Williams Iff New Mexico Department of Game and Fish P. O. Box 25112 Santa Fe, New Mexico 87504 (sowilliams@state.nm.us) Summer 2001 was marked by widespread and relatively ample rainfall, especially dur- ing July. Breeding bird studies proceeded on several fronts, and a new nesting species was added to the state list. Abbreviations: B.L.N.W.R. (Bitter Lake N.W.R.); Bosque (Bosque del Apache N.W.R.); E.B.L. (Elephant Butte L.); Maxwell (Maxwell N.W.R.); N.R.T. (n. Roosevelt migrant trap near Melrose); R.G.V. (Rio Grande Valley). LOOMS THBOOGH QUAIL On the lingering loon front, 4 Commons were late at Conchas L. 2 Jun (JO); another Common remained at Maxwell all season (ph. DC). There was both good news and bad for Eared Grebes at Maxwell — 57 nests were active at Lake 14 on 14 Jul, but these were all destroyed by rising reservoir levels 18 Jul (DC); 17 nests were elsewhere on the refuge 14 & 21 Jul (DC). In Rio Arriba, some 300 Eared Grebes were nesting at Duke L. 22 Jul (BL), and 12 nests were at Stone L. 5-6 Jul (DS). Up to 12 Clark’s Grebe nests were at Maxwell 17- 30 Jul (DC), where there was a single Western nest 30 Jun (DC). In Rio Arriba, Western Grebes abandoned the drying Stinking L., but there were 31 nests at Stone L. and young at both Enbom L. and Mundo L. 5—6 Jul (DS), plus 17 nests at Duke L. 22 Jul (BL). Numbers of American White Pelicans increased notice- ably in several areas by mid-Jun, suggesting possible breeding failures farther n.; notable were 75 at Maxwell 2 Jul (DC) and 43 at B.L.N.W.R. 6 Jul (GW). A Neotropic Cormorant strayed n. to Maxwell’s Lake 12 on 9 Jul (vt. JO) and Stubblefield L. 14 Jul (vt. JO); another was on the Gila R. near Riverside 13 Jul (RSS). No American Bitterns were reported, but one to 2 Leasts were at Tucumcari L. 15-16 Jun (JP) and Bosque 3 Jun (JO) and 15 Jul (PS). An imm. Reddish Egret — ^New Mexico’s 12th — ^was at E.B.L. 29 Jun (vt. JO)-l Jul (JP). White-faced Ibis nests irregularly in New Mexico; this season some 30 nests were active at Bosque 28 Jun (JO, J. Taylor). Adding to Roswell’s reputation for strange encounters, 2 ad. Black-bellied Whistling-Ducks put in a brief appearance at a pond near the airport 1 Jul (SW). Providing a local first was a Wood Duck at Miami L. 25 Jun (DC). Mexican Ducks were much in evidence in the sw., including 180 at Lordsburg 23 Jul (SW, RW) plus broods at Tyrone 17 Jun (EL) and in the Animas Valley 5 Jun and 1 Jul (AC, NM-C). Late was a pair of Ring-necked Ducks at Albuquerque 19 Jun (R. Yaksich). Hooded Mergansers nested successfully at Bosque, where there was a female with 2 young 17 Jun (JO), plus other young at two additional refuge locales 5 & 12 Jul (JO). There was continued good news for Ospreys, as the number of known nesting pairs increased to nine, with eight in the Heron-El Vado area and one at Cochiti; this summer, eight of the pairs fledged 19 young (DS). Continuing another remarkable colonization story, a total of seven White-tailed Kite pairs was monitored in s. New Mexico, and three of them fledged 10 young May— Jun (RM); a sin- gle White-tailed was near Rodeo 29 Jun (vt. JO)— 7 Jul (JP). Noteworthy Mississippi Kites were one circling over Madrid 20 Jun (LS) and a kettle of 25 at Texico 23 Jun (JO); w. to the R.G.V were singles at Albuquerque 16 Jul (DH) and Los Lunas 1 Jul (BV). An ad. and a juv. Bald Eagle at Stubblefield L. 9-26 Jul (DC, JP, JO) suggested the presence of an undiscov- ered nest in that area; elsewhere in Colfax, the three known nests were successful (SOW). Summering Northern Harriers were singles in the s. Animas Valley 23 Jun (J. Paton) and at Deming 4 Jul (LM). A Common Black-Hawk was n. in the Pecos Valley to Santa Rosa Dam 22 Jun (B. Rowe); noteworthy was another in the Animas Valley at Clanton Cienega 8 Jun (SOW). Ferruginous Hawks are rare breeders in Lea, so noteworthy was one near Hobbs 23 Jun (DH). The pioneering Aplomado Falcon pair in s. New Mexico, present since Oct, ren- ested in late May, but the nest and eggs were abandoned by 4 Jun (RM). Among the several Montezuma Quail reports was a nest with eggs s. of Guadalupe Canyon 22 Jul (AC, NM-C). PLOVERS THROUGH CUCKOOS Late was an American Golden-Plover at B.L.N.W.R. 8 Jun (GW). Snowy Plovers at B.L.N.W.R. peaked with 399 on 29 Jun and 402 on 27 Jul (GW), but Holloman L. could muster only 12 on 13 Jul (GE); peripheral were 2 at Maxwell 14 Jul (JP, JO) and one at Brantley L 22 Jul (JO). Among the very few Mountain Plover reports were 3 in the n. San Luis Valley on the Rio Arriba-Taos line 16 Jun (JO) and a breeding group of 9 ads. near White Lakes, Santa Fe, where there were single chicks 12 & 28 Jun and 9 Jul (BL). High count for American Avocets was 531 at B.L.N.W.R 27 Jul (GW). Unexpected in DeBaca in summer, a pair of Spotted Sandpipers was suspected of nesting at Sumner L. 6 Jun (WH). Long-billed Curlews were prevalent in ne. prairies, including highs of 17 at Springer 26 Jun (DC) and 13 at Floyd Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 467 24 Jun (SS); in Santa Fe, small colonies of up to 8 ads. each were discovered at White Lakes and near Stanley, and chicks were noted at both sites in Jul (BL). Unseasonal were 2 Marbled Godwits at B.L.N.W.R. 29 Jun (GW). Stubblefield L. yielded a Semipalmated Sandpiper 14 Jul (JP, JO), a Sanderling 24 Jul (DC), and 300 Baird’s Sandpipers 28 Jul (DC). High count for White-rumped Sandpipers was 31 at B.L.N.W.R 1 Jun (GW); last of the north- bound White-rumpeds were 2 there 15 Jun (GW). High counts for southbound Stilt Sandpipers were 53 at Stubblefield L. 26 Jul (DC), 156 at B.L.N.W.R. 27 Jul (GW), and 25 at Roswell 25 Jul (DM). The status of Short- billed Dowitcher in New Mexico is very poorly understood, and entirely undetailed reports of small flocks of the species this Jul did nothing to further our understanding. A Common Snipe in the Valle Grande, Jemez Mts. 28 Jun (SF) was suggestive of local breeding. Late were 2 Red-necked Phalaropes at B.L.N.W.R 1 Jun (GW). A Red Phalarope at Springer L. 15 & 18 Jun (ph. DC) was a nice surprise. Summering but non-nesting California Gulls included 15 at Eagle Nest L. 9 Jul (JO) and 3-5 at E.B.L. 6 Jun-1 Jul (WW, JO, JP). The state’s 2nd Elegant Tern fol- lowed the first by barely two months: one at Farmington 18 Jul (ph. T. Reeves) provided one of a handful of records of the species away from the Pacific coast and California. A Forster’s Tern lingered at B.L.N.W.R. 8-22 Jun (GW); early was a Forster’s at Springer L. 2 Jul (DC). The Endangered Least Tern pop- ulation at B.L.N.W.R. increased to 11 pairs this season, but only 9 young fledged (JM). A Black Skimmer at B.L.N.W.R. 10-1 1 Jun (JM et ah, ph. JO, ph. WH) furnished the state’s 3rd definite and 4th overall record. A Band-tailed Pigeon strayed to B.L.N.W.R. 6 Jun (ph. GW); 3 near Madrid 5 Jul (LS) provided a local first. Reports of Eurasian Collared-Doves continued to prolif- erate from the R.G.V. eastward; relentlessly pushing w. were singles at Bloomfield 8 Jul (ph. JO), Gallup 15 Jul (ph. JO), and San Rafael 15 Jul (JO), plus 2-3 at Cuba 8 Jul (ph. JO) and a nest at Silver City that fledged 2 young by 29 Jul (RSS). Single Common Ground-Doves were in the Cliff-Gila Valley 28 Jun (HAW), the middle Animas Valley 2 Jul (SOW, PM), and Guadalupe Canyon 3 Jul (JO, NM-C). Yellow-billed Cuckoos contin- ued to thrive in New Mexico, with often mul- tiple reports from 25 locales nearly statewide Jun-Jul, including n. to the Chama, Cimarron, Canadian, and Tecolote drainages, in the Pecos Valley from Sumner Dam to B.L.N.W.R and w. to Hondo, in the e. plains at N.R.T. and Hobbs, and in the R.G.V. from Espanola to Raduim Springs; in the sw., mul- tiple pairs and/or nests were in the San Francisco, Gila, and Mimbres valleys, plus singles in the Animas Valley and Guadalupe Canyon (m. ob.). OWLS THROUGH VIREOS Outlying Elf Owls were singles in Sierra at Lake Valley 6 Jun (WW) and Las Animas Cr. 12 Jul (ph. JO) and in Eddy at Rocky Arroyo 23 Jun (SW, RW). Unexpected was a Short- eared Owl near Bueyeros 16 Jun (K. Granillo); although not known to nest in New Mexico, this was the 2nd consecutive summer in which the species has been reported in Jun in the east. Chimney Swift was added to the list of New Mexico breeding species when some were discovered entering a Carlsbad chimney; the site was investigated 16 Jul, revealing egg shells and a recently- used swift nest (SW, R. Wiedenmann, B. Neiman). A female White-eared Hummingbird was in the Animas Mts. 15 Jun (AC, NM-C), the first for that range since 1995. Single male Blue-throated Hummingbirds strayed n. to Raton 14 Jul (JP, JO) and e. to Six Mile Dam, Eddy 21 Jun (SW); a likely Magnificent was at Cloudcroft 15 Jun (WH). A female Lucifer was gathering nest material in P. O. Canyon 31 Jul (JD-M, RTS), while single migrant Anna’s reached Albuquerque 9 Jul (PS), P. O. Canyon 25 Jul (JD-M, RTS), and Las Cruces 25 Jul (GE). A Calypte hummer that may have been a Costa’s was at Deming 13-14 Jul (LM); there are no previous Luna reports. Barely a year after the first Allen’s Hummingbird was con- firmed in New Mexico, 2 others were cap- tured and banded at Trout Cr., Grant — an ad. female 13 Jul and an ad. male 18 Jul (W. Calder). Three Lewis’s Woodpeckers persisted s. to Los Lunas 1 Jul (BV). Among the very few reports of Red-headed Woodpeckers was one at B.L.N.W.R. 1 Jun (GW). Perhaps benefit- ing from recent fires, Three-toed Woodpeckers were much in evidence in n. New Mexico, including 3 near Los Alamos 17 Jun (JO) and 2 at Bandelier 10 Jun (JT), plus others in the San Juan and Sangre de Cristo ranges; a pair was feeding nestlings on Oso Ridge, Zuni Mts. 18 8c 23 Jun (D. Arsenault). A female Yellow-shafted Elicker was at Clovis 23 Jun (JO). For the 2nd consecutive year. Dusky Flycatchers summered s. to the Sacramento Mts. near Cloudcroft, with two pairs plus a male there 17 Jun (WH); another Dusky was singing in the Black Range n. of Kingston 4 Jun (WW). Eastern Phoebes in possible breeding areas included one near Grenville 14 Jun (KS), 2 near Rociada, San Miguel 15 Jul (LS), and one singing at Las Vegas N.W.R. 14 Jun (audiotape SF); early for the sw. was one near Riverside 19 Jul (RSS). Vermilion Flycatchers at their n. periphery were single males in Sandoval in Jun (HAW) and near Pastura, Guadalupe 6 Jun (WH). A vocal Dusky-capped Flycatcher was n. to the Pinos Altos Mts. 1 Jul (WH); a Brown-crested was e. to Las Animas Cr. 6 Jun (WW). A Thick- billed Kingbird wandered ne. to Double Adobes, Animas Mts. 5 Jun (AC, NM-C). Unusual at 7700 ft was a Western Kingbird near Bluff Springs, Sacramento Mts. 14 Jul (SW). Eastern Kingbirds in the R.G.V. included a nest at Espanola 24 Jun (BV) and ads. tending a fledgling at Cochiti Pueblo 19 Jul (HAW). White-eyed Vireos continued to tantalize, including a singing male at N.R.T. 2 Jun (JP, vt. JO) and another near Cliff 12 8c 29 Jun (HDW); most intriguing were 2-3 at Cochiti Pueblo 5 8c 10 Jul (DH et ah), one of which may have been a fledgling. Gray Vireos were unusually well represented around the state, including one to 7 on six B.B.S. routes; others of note included a pair near Madrid 2 Jun (LS), 12 territories n. of Bingham, Socorro 3- 13 Jul (NC), 3 territories near Ladron Peak 1 1 Jul (NC), and an ad. feeding a fledgling in Guadalupe Canyon 3 Jul (NM-C). For the 2nd consecutive year, a Bell’s Vireo was on the Mimbres R., Luna 30 Jun (JO). Late was a Cassin’s Vireo at Clanton Cienega 5 Jun (AC, NM-C). Single Red-eyeds were at N.R.T. 2 Jun (JP, JO) and Mimbres R., Grant 3 Jul (HDW). JAYS THROUGH WARBLERS Far e. were 5 Pinyon Jays at Ragland 2 Jun (JO). A resourceful Clark’s Nutcracker cap- tured and carried away a young Yellow- rumped Warbler at Elk Mt. 5 Jul (BL); note- worthy for summer was a Clark’s at Sandia Crest 9 Jun (DE, BN). Purple Martins nested n. to Colfax for only the 2nd time, with 3-4 successful nests in the Sangre de Cristo Mts. at Vermejo Ranch 6 Jul (ph. DC). Bank Swallows tend to be a forgotten riparian species; encouraging this season were about 15 pairs nesting at San Juan Pueblo 15 Jun (vt. JO). North in the R.G.V. was an active Verdin nest at Sevilleta N.W.R. 15 Jul (WH). Likely providing local firsts were a pair of House Wrens plus a singing Ruby-crowned Kinglet in the Gallinas Mts. near Corona 15 Jun (HS). Noteworthy were 4 Black-tailed 468 North American Birds New Mexico Gnatcatchers near Engle, Sierra 4 Jul (J. Atchley); in the sw., 2 Black-taileds were at San Simon Cienega 7 Jul (JP) and 4, includ- ing a fledgling, were s. of Guadalupe Canyon 22 Jul (AC, NM-C). A Townsend’s Solitaire was at Gallinas Peak 15 Jul (HS); the species is irregular in summer in that isolated range. Only 2 Veeries were detected at Chama, one 9 Jun (JP, JO) and another 8 Jul (JO); a migrant was heard at N.R.T. 3 Jun (JO). At least 4 Swainson’s Thrushes were singing at Chama 9 Jun (JP, JO). The Wood Thrush at N.R.T. in late May was last seen 3 Jun (JO). A Long-billed Thrasher was singing at Bosque Redondo 2- 3 Jun (JP, vt. JO), where one has been present since 1997. Bendire’s Thrashers exist in small, local populations in the w. two-thirds of New Mexico; one such is in the e. Bear Mts., Socorro, where there were 2 on 1-2 Jun (HS). Curve-billed Thrashers continued their pop- ulation explosion at Eldorado near Santa Fe, where 25 of 41 pairs produced 2nd broods in Jun and 19 pairs had initiated 3rd nesting attempts in Jul (DS). Noteworthy was an American Pipit above timberline on Buck Mt., Lincoln 1 Jul (SW). Two Cedar Waxwings at Zuni 7 Jun (ph. DC) furnished the only summer report. Olive Warblers, unknown in Socorro prior to 1998, were again in evidence in the San Mateo Mts., including a nest at San Mateo Spring that produced fledglings by 27 Jun (HS). A possible Golden-winged Warbler was heard singing at Lake Valley 17 Jun (S. Downes). Among the several e. strays was a well-documented Chestnut-sided Warbler singing at Bandelier 3-10 Jun (audiotape SF; JT); another Chestnut-sided was w. to the Cliff-Gila Valley 25 Jun (HDW). Noteworthy for summer were single Black-and-whites at Cochiti Pueblo 28 Jun-31 Jul (DH), Embudito Canyon, Bernalillo 17 Jun (BV), and the Cliff-Gila Valley 25 Jul (HDW), an American Redstart at Bluff Springs 13 Jul (GE), and a Prothonotary at Sevilleta N.W.R. 8 Jun (WH). Reported late was a singing Ovenbird at Cochiti Canyon 31 May (WW); another was singing along an Albuquerque ditch 28 Jun (DM). An impressive season for Kentucky Warblers found singles at N.R.T. 1 Jun (JO), Coyote Creek S.P. 22 Jun (PS, CR), Cochiti Pueblo 19 Jul (HAW), and Escondida 19 Jun (J. DeLong). Hooded Warblers in potential breeding habitat were singing males at Cochiti Pueblo Jun-Jul (DH), Mimbres R. near San Lorenzo 29 Jun & 3 Jul (WH, HDW), and Gila R. near Riverside 8 & 22 Jun and 2 Jul (RSS), plus a female at nearby Cliff 22 Jun (G. Sadoti). Unusual for summer was an imm. Painted Redstart near Riverside 22 Jun (RSS). TANAGERS THROUGH FINCHES Summer Tanagers in unexpected locales included 2 near Conchas L. 2 Jun (JO) and singles at N.R.T. 10 Jun (JO) and Tinnie 22 Jul (JO). Unexpected in summer in the Gallinas Mts. was a Green-tailed Towhee 15 Jun (HS). Cassin’s Sparrows were conspicu- ous w. of their core range, including 5 at Eldorado 7 Jun (DS), 5 near Cerrillos 17 Jun (BE), 7 near Cerro Verde, Cibola 30 Jun (DM), one at Petroglyph N.M. 24 Jun & 8 Jul (HS, PS), 51 near Escondida 22 Jun (HS), and 5 in the San Agustin Plains 4 Jul (JO); in the sw., 19 were near Antelope Wells 10 Jun (SOW). Botteri’s Sparrows showed signs of recovery from last year’s Animas Valley fire, with 29 territories (but only 7 in or near burned areas) plus a nest with eggs 1-3 Jul (SOW, PM, Z. Jones). Noteworthy was a Rufous-crowned Sparrow pair with fledg- lings near Madrid 18 Jun (LS). E. of the known breeding range were 6 Brewer’s Sparrows in saltbush at Maxwell 2 Jul (DC). Early greenup of the ne. prairies in Colfax, Union, Mora, Harding, and San Miguel proved irresistible to Lark Buntings, and many hundreds stayed to nest where in some years there are none; highs included 139 at Farley 3 Jun (SOW) and 203 at Grenville 14 Jun (KS); s. were one near Pastura 6 Jun (WH) and 2 near Fort Sumner 1 Jun (SOW). Seven Savannah Sparrows were singing in the Valle Grande 28 Jun (SF), where first detected summering only last year. Unseasonal was a white-lored ad. White- crowned Sparrow at Capulin Spring, Sandia Mts. 21 Jun (GM). Continuing a trend, a Northern Cardinal was n. to Tucumcari 2 Jun (JO); 2 Pyrrhuloxias were e. of the Florida Mts. 1 Jun (LM), where rarely reported. Late was a male Rose-breasted Grosbeak at Moriarty 10 Jun (BV). Northerly Indigo Buntings included singles at Petaca, Rio Arriba 16 Jun (JO) and Sugarite S.P., Colfax! Jun (DC). A good Varied Bunting season found five territories in Guadalupe Canyon 10—11 Jun (SOW), 6 individuals (including a fledgling) s. of Guadalupe Canyon 22 Jul (AC, NM-C), and 2 pairs in Walnut Canyon, Eddy 9 Jul (SW). N. in the Pecos Valley was a singing Painted Bunting at Sumner Dam 6 Jun (WH); in the lower R.G.V., a Painted pair was at La Mesa 17 Jun-28 Jul (MS, ph. JZ). Dickcissel reports in areas where rarely reported came from Springer L. 14 Jul (one or 2; JP, JO) and Las Vegas N.W.R. 21 Jul (2 birds; audiotape SF). Eastern Meadowlarks are common breed- ers in s. New Mexico and, in recent years, have been appearing with increasing fre- quency in the n.; unexpected, however, were 26 singing in the Jemez Mts. at 8500 ft in the Valle Grande 28 Jun (audiotape SF). Noteworthy were 6 ad. Brewer’s Blackbirds with 9 fledglings in the Sandia Mts. at Madera 20 Jun (R. Gracey, fide HS). Common Crackles continued to expand westward, with 8 (including fledglings) at Gallup 14 Jul (vt. JO), plus 2 at nearby Red Rock S.P. (JO) and one at Fort Wingate (vt. JO) the same day. More evidence of north- ward- moving Bronzed Cowbirds was provid- ed by 2 males (one collected) at B.L.N.W.R. 2 Jun (GW) and another near there 12 Jun (WH), plus a female at Conchas L. 2 Jun (vt. JO), the latter a San Miguel first. Orchard Orioles n. of usual were a pair at Fort Sumner 3 Jun (JO) and one there 17 Jul (WW), a male near Clovis 23 Jun (JO), and another singing near Roswell 12 Jun (WH). Among the very few Cassin’s Finch reports were one at Capulin Spring 21 Jun (GM) and 2 near Sandia Crest 11 Jul (PS). Providing a treat for many were up to 5 White-winged Crossbills at the Santa Fe Ski Basin. First found 15 Jul (MM), they remained through the month (m. ob., vt. JO). Singing plus apparent courtship feeding suggested that they were initiating nesting. Red Crossbills were widespread and relatively numerous in most major mountain ranges statewide. The only American Goldfinches were 2 at Chama 9 Jun (JP). Only small numbers of Evening Grosbeaks were noted, these restricted to the Sangre de Cristo, Jemez, and Sacramento ranges. Cited Observers: David Cleary, Nancy Cox, Alan Craig, Joan Day-Martin, Douglas Emkalns, Gordon Ewing, Stephen Fettig, Bernard Foy, David Hawksworth, William Howe, Eugene Lewis, Brian Long, Martin MacRoberts, Larry Malone, Patricia Mehlhop, David Mehlman, Raymond Meyer, Gale Monson, James Montgomery, Narca Moore-Craig, Bruce Neville, Jerry Oldenettel, John Parmeter, Christopher Rustay, Lawry Sager, Robert T. Scholes, Hart Schwarz, Marcy Scott, Kenneth Seyffert, Roland S. Shook, Patricia Snider, Dale Stahlecker, Scott Stoleson, Joyce Takamine, Brad Vaughn, Hira A. Walker, Gordon Warrick, Renee West, Steve West, William West, S. O. Williams, Hope D. Woodward, James Zabriskie. Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 469 Alaska Thede Tobish 251 0 Foraker Drive Anchorage, Alaska 99517 (tgt@alaska.net) June 2001 surprised everyone with an abrupt weather turnaround from May, which had been unseasonably cold, held up breeding, and caused local nesting failures across the western half of the Region. Although spring migrants arrived mostly with- in their average dates of arrival, partial egg-lay- ing and wholesale departures from nesting areas were fairly common occurrences, espe- cially along the west coast and in the alpine zone. Seward Peninsula observers described alpine conditions as two weeks late and the season was felt by many to be one of the latest ever. But literally by 5 June, high pressure engulfed the Region for essentially a month. Coastal and alpine tundra shorebirds attempt- ed to renest or finish earlier egg-laying with marginal success. Elsewhere observers either did not summarize breeding success, or deemed nesting to be about average. July quickly reversed June’s warm dry theme and contributed a solid month of cool rainy condi- tions across the Region. Field surveys in west- ern coastal mountains and in southern Southeast produced numerous interesting and local first nesting finds. Abbreviations: A.B.O. (Alaska Bird Observatory); N.P.S. (National Park Service); P.W.S. (Prince William Sound); S.E. (Southeast Alaska); S.C. (South-coastal Alaska); U.C.I. (Upper Cook Inlet). Referenced details (t), specimens {*), photographs (ph.), and video- tape (vt.) are on file at the University of Alaska Museum. Italicized place names denote espe- cially unusual locations for the noted species. LOONS THROUGH RAILS The usual handful of Arctic Loon reports came from the vicinity of Nome in the first half of Jun (ni. ob.). Three described from nesting habitat at Aliktongnak L. 1 Jul (RM) along the lower Noatak R. inland and n. of Kotzebue were more unusual and perhaps suspect as nesting pioneers. Notable shelf-edge Mottled Petrel reports included 3 e. of Kodiak 4 Jul and a single far- ther w. in Shelikof Strait near the Shumagin Is. 5 Jul (TH, JH). In a repeat of last summer’s reports (q.v.). Fork-tailed Storm-Petrels again were drawn away from the open sea to a food source well up S.E.’s Lynn Canal, starting with 2 on 1 Jul and building to an early Aug peak of 330-1- (AD). Extending a 1990s trend of appar- ent expansion into the s. Bering Sea was an ad. Double-crested Cormorant near Nome’s Safety Sound 6-7 Jun (VENT), Alaska’s northern- most record. Recent finds of nesting pairs on Nunivak I. and n. at Cape Romanzof had earli- er extended the species’s range considerably into the Bering Sea and n. of traditional Alaska Pen. Sites. At least one Double-crested also loafed in fresh water in Anchorage 18 Jun- 12 Jul-(- (m. ob.), where casual in summer, while another ventured n. of the Alaska Range to Northway lakes 1 Jun (KWL), where acciden- tal. Single extralimital Great Blue Herons also crossed into the Interior, along the Chisana R. e. of Tok 5 Jun (KWL), and from the Chatanika R. n. of Fairbanks 11 Jun {fide A.B.O.). Great Blues are casual n. of the Alaska Range. As noted in the past few summers, imm. Brant spent portions of the season at scattered coastal sites from Juneau, Gook Inlet, and along the Bering Sea coast. A single along the Alaska Hwy. e. of Tok 11 Jun (KWL) was noted out of range and on an odd date. Four Brant from the Nome area 4-5 Jun (VENT) were described by the observers as being of the subspecies hrota. A single hrota specimen does exist from Alaska, a Jun bird from Wales, and there are occasional (mostly Jun) reports of pale-bellied individuals from the Bering Sea coast. Of the handful of normal early-sea- son Eurasian Wigeon reports, a drake near Prudhoe Bay 11 Jun (KJB) was of greatest interest, as this species is accidental on Alaska’s North Slope. Surprisingly rare in summer off the S.E. mainland, a Mallard brood noted in Ketchikan 28 Jul (AWP) was also a first local breeding confirmation. The handful of other summer waterfowl high- lights included a drake Blue-winged Teal at Prudhoe Bay 15 Jun (KJB), where rare and not annual, an unusual single group of 179 pre- sumably loafing nonbreeding Northern Shovelers at the Alaska-Canada Border ponds 29 Jun (AD), 4 Common Mergansers near Prudhoe Bay 26 Jul (KJB), where casual for the North Slope, and only a single Ruddy Duck, a drake n. of Fairbanks in the Yukon Flats N.W.R. 10-19 Jun (DS, AS). Perhaps indicative of reported poor breed- ing success across most of w. Alaska, mostly female Common Eiders were concentrating in nearshore waters off the Seward Pen.’s n. side near Cape Douglas by the end of Jun (e.g., 400 on 26 Jun; RM). In more typical breeding sea- sons, even nonbreeding females remain on the breeding grounds with broods. S.E. scoter concentrations, likely failed breeders and itin- erant imms., were drawn this year to food sources on the e. shores of Admiralty I. 10-12 Jul + (AWP), highlighted by peaks of 2700-1- Surfs and 1000-t- White- wingeds. Each year. Surf and White-winged Scoters regularly leave breeding areas and reconvene at food-rich stage sites where they may remain to molt, or depart later for separate molting areas. A Bald Eagle wandered onto the North Slope tundra near Prudhoe Bay 3 Jul (KJB) where they are occasional but not annual in mid-summer. Helicopter pilots and then birders refound the “resident” Steller’s Sea- 470 North American Birds Alaska Eagle along its favored stretch of Taku R. near Juneau between mid-Jun and 31 Jul {fide SZ), where it has been seen periodically since the mid-1980s. Another Swainson’s Hawk appeared in the Northway area, possibly a local breeder, 27 Jun (tAD). Most summer reports of this very local and scarce breeder originate in the e. and n. Delta Range foothills. Only slightly more regular away from North Slope riparian forest patches was a single American Kestrel also at Prudhoe 12 Jul (KDB). Soras made a good showing within the regular sum- mer range: 2 were present all season at Gustavus near Glacier Bay NM (BP) and up to 3 in the Haines area’s 25-mile marsh 17 Jun+ (AD). A single Sora was farther afield, calling from a Palmer sedge marsh 26 Jun- 13 Jul-f (HG, NS). Soras remain casual basically any- where away from annual haunts from Mainland S.E. and e. Interior lakes and sloughs. PLOVERS THROUGH DOVES Always uncommon, irregular and local within it s Alaska range, Killdeer made news at sever- al sites, with a first nesting documented in the Ketchikan area, where a half-grown chick car- cass turned up 1 Jul (SCH'^), and in Anchorage, where an active nest was located 7 Jun (RLS). Singles were reported at several sites between Palmer and Anchorage, with at least 5 seen in Jun. More unlikely was an over- shoot Killdeer on the Bering Sea coast, where casual (mostly in Jun), at the Kotzebue airport 7 Jun (RH, ZH). N.P.S. field survey crews in the Cape Krusenstern-W. Noatak conservation units 1- 10 Jun focused in the Delong Mts., turning up interesting territorial shorebirds mostly at the periphery or beyond known nesting areas (REG, LT), highlighted by 10 Upland Sandpipers in the Noatak R. valley within 110 km of the Bering Sea coast 1 Jun, a single dis- playing Hudsonian Godwit in the lower Noatak in early Jun, 2 Buff-breasted Sandpiper leks, 7 birds total, 3 Jun about 8 mi ne. of Krusenstern Lagoon, and territorial Surfbirds. Although Buff-breasteds are rare spring over- shoots to the Bering Sea coast, mostly n. of Nome, this is the first definitive nesting evi- dence w. of known sites near Barrow. The few other summer shorebird highlights included up to 16 southbound Hudsonian Godwits in Juneau 9-15 Jul (PS, BA), a single Bar- tailed there 4 Jul (PS, GW), and a handsome Ruff 19 Jun at Prudhoe Bay (BPG, KDB, KJB, RMF), where there are several Jun records. Jul high tides in Anchorage produced unprecedented Semipalmated Plover staging concentrations, with 800-1- estimated near Ship Creek 22 Jul (TT). While doing surveys in the Yukon Flats N.W.R., an A.B.O. biologist discovered Alaska’s first Wilson’s Phalarope nest 22 Jun (LD), while the extreme Jul Anchorage tides pro- duced 2 juv. Wilson’s 22 Jul (TT), U.C.I.’s 2nd record of juvs. Wilson’s Phalarope may have nested in the nearby Eagle R. estuary in the late 1980s. As is typical in summer, noteworthy gull reports spanned the Region and included over- shoots, late migrants, and early fall arrivals. Larid highlights included a rare North Slope Bonaparte’s Gull at Prudhoe Bay 1 Jul (KJB), another photo-documented Gambell Black- tailed Gull, a second-summer bird 9 Jun (vt. LS), a convincing ad. Lesser Black-backed Gull in the Prudhoe dump 28 Jun-4 Jul (ph. KJB ph.; awaiting additional review), presumably the same second-summer Slaty-backed Gull in the Kenai R. vicinity 2 Jun-18 Jul (KJB), an inshore Sabine’s Gull at Ketchikan 3 Jun (AWP; casual in S.E), a new U.C.I. high count of 31 Black-legged Kittiwakes in Anchorage 5 Jun (TT, LJO), where casual, and lots of late nw. coast Ross’s Gulls, with up to 17 counted near Wales 9 Jun (PJB, JH, JS) and up to 9 in Barrow 16-19 Jun (VENT, MB). Ross’s Gulls are casu- al at best on the Bering Sea shores in spring. Several Mew Gull pairs attempted to nest near Ketchikan on snags in a flooded reservoir, where two certain nests were followed 6 May- 10 Jun (SCH, AWP). The closest S.E. con- firmed nesting areas are well to the n. near Petersburg. Caspian Terns were quiet away from P.W.S., with up to 4 in Juneau 17 Jun— 15 Jul (PS, BA) and another 2 in Homer 1 1—12 Jul (TH, JH), the only ones reported. Up to 4 Dovekies were spotted offshore at St. Lawrence I.’s East Cape 3-4 Jul (fPB), where they are unknown. Small Dovekie numbers have tradi- tionally been reported around n. Bering Sea auklet colonies but annually only from the w. side of St. Lawrence 1. DOVES THROUGH FINCHES A Mourning Dove in Juneau 4 Jul (PS, GW) was one of few summer reports of this other- wise occasional fall migrant. It was a quiet summer for owls, with the calling Northern Pygmy-Owl from Ketchikan 19 Jul (AWP), a first local summer record, making the only real news. Common Nighthawks were once again on territories in the Chilkat Valley out of Haines, with at least 3 on the Kelsall R. bars 19 Jul (AD), where several have been noted for the past three years. Few observers comment on Black Swifts, which are actually rather rare and local in s. S.E., so a report of 25 noted over the Marten R. in Misty Fiords N.M. 21—23 Jun (AWP) was most interesting and in classic riparian cliff habitat. A.B.O. field surveys produced an active (and later successful) Yellow-bellied Sapsucker nest s. of Fairbanks in the Bonanza Cr. Forests 31 May-f (A.B.O., AMB); this was significantly w. of the Region’s two previous nests, located between Tok and the Canadian border. Extralimital Olive-sided Flycatchers roamed out of the taiga to coastal tundra sites, where they are casual, with singles at Prudhoe Bay 12 Jun (DMT) and in the Kotzebue area 14 8c 30 Jun (RH, ZH, RM). Casual s. of the Alaska Range, U.C.I.’s 3rd Hammond’s Flycatcher was calling from birch woods near Peters Cr. 2 Jun (BM). The season’s obligatory Eastern Kingbird ended up at the mouth of the Chilkat Valley near Haines 4-10 Jul (CA, AD). A few Easterns turn up each summer somewhere on S.E.’s Mainland river corridors. Hot on the heels of U.C.I.’s first-ever from two years ago, and the summer’s only report, another Cassin’s Vireo set up territory in the Anchorage area 30 May-23 Jun-l- {fide RLS et al). As is often the case in summer, swallows turned up at the Region’s coastal periphery, highlighted by a single Bank Swallow 6 Jun (BPG), 2 Cliff Swallows 26 Jun (KDB, RMF), and a Palearctic Barn Swallow 3 Jul (KJB), all at Prudhoe Bay, where all are casual. Another white-bellied Barn Swallow showed up at Gambell 9 Jun (ph. LS), where there are a handful of spring records. Always noteworthy. Rough-winged Swallows nested at Mitkof 1. 9 Jun-t (AWP) and in Ketchikan 10 Jun-15 Jul (AWP, SCH). Unusual offshore in S.E., where they are local and scarce, were single Red- breasted Nuthatches in Ketchikan 19 8c 23 Jul (SCH), local summer firsts. Especially after a poor spring showing, a male Siberian Rubythroat skulking around shrubs at East Cape on St. Lawrence 1. 12 Jul (tPB) was more than a little surprising, and certainly without precedent. There may be only one previous Bering Sea record for Jul. Prudhoe Bay was also a source for extraordi- nary thrush discoveries, including a male Mountain Bluebird 5 Jun (RMF, DMT, RSK, KJB), accidental for the North Slope, and a first Beaufort Sea Townsend’s Solitaire on the Endicott causeway rocks 5 Jul (KJB, RMF, BPG, DMT). Casual in s. S.E. and a local first, another tidewater Gray-cheeked Thrush was found singing near Ketchikan’s Ward L. 24 Jun (tSCH, JM). Gray-cheekeds are occasionally found along S.E. mainland riparian corridors, mostly in early Jun and n. of the Stikine R. Anchorage’s Northern Mockingbird, present since summer 1998, reappeared downtown 17 Jun (m. ob.) after a six-month hiatus. Of the few White Wagtail reports from the Seward Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 471 Pen., a male near MP 38 on the Council Rd. 7 Jun (VENT) e. and inland of Nome was most unusual and away from normal coastal sites. Heinl found another singing House Finch in Ketchikan 1 1 Jun (tSCH), a local 2nd and the Region’s 3rd ever. Contributors and observers: A.B.O. (N. DeWitt et al.), B. Agler, C. Allen, J. B. Allen, P. J.Baicich, K. J. Bardon, P. Bartley, A. M. Benson, M. Bowman, K. D. Brady, L. DeCicco, D. F. Delap, A. DeMartini, M. Dementiev, J. 8c S. Doyle, R. M. Fowler, B. P. Gibbons, D. D. Gibson, R. E. Gill, R. J. Gordon, T. Goutier, H. Griese, T. 8c J. Heindel, S. C. Heinl, R. 8c Z. Hogan, }. Huntington, R. S. Kaler, J. F. Koerner, K. W. Larson, R. A. Macintosh, D. Mako, R. Meyers, B. Micklejohn, L. J. Oakley, B. Paige, A. W. Piston, P. Pourchot, C. L. Ross, D. Rudis, S. Savage, R. L. Scher, M. A. Schultz, W. Schuster, M. Schwan, L. Semo, N. Senner, S. Senner, D. Shaw, S. D. Smith, D. W. Sonneborn, J. 8c M. Stab, P. Suchanek, J. Swertinski, A. Swingley, M. E. Tedin, L. Tibbitts, T. Tobish, P. Tomkovitch, D. M. Troy, R. Uhl, VENT tour (B. Zimmer, K. J. Zimmer, D. E. Wolf, M. J. Iliff, et al.), G. Van Vliet, V. Wallace, M. L. Ward, WINGS tour (G. H. Rosenberg et al.), M. A. Wood, M. York, T. P. Zadina, S. Zimmerman. ^ British Columbia-Yukon Donald G. Cecile 7995 Wilson-Jackson Road Vernon, British Columbia V1B 3N5 (dcecile@sd22.bc.ca) The summer season saw many species exhibiting range expansions, particularly northward and westward, among them Great Egret, Canyon Wren, Northern Mockingbird, Tennessee Warbler, Lazuli Bunting, and Blue Jay. Some species seemed to be displaced due to prairie drought conditions, e. g., Franklin’s Gull and Swainson’s Hawk. Other conditions may have prohibited breeding, thus accounting for the large concentration of Long-billed Curlews in the central interior. A healthy num- ber of outstanding rarities included Magnificent Frigatebird, British Columbia’s first Whiskered Auklet, Sprague’s Pipit, Dickcissel, and Great-tailed Grackle. Abbreviations: B.C.F.O. (British Columbia Field Ornithologists), Chichester (Chichester Bird Sanctuary, Kelowna), C.I.P. (Cottonwood Island Park, P.G.), F.F.T.W. (Forests for the World, P.G.), F.S.J. (Fort St. James), P.G. (Prince George), Q.C.I. (Queen Charlotte Is.), R.P.B.O (Rocky Point Bird Observatory s. Vancouver L), U.N.B.C. (University of Northern British Columbia), Whse. (Whitehorse, Yukon). LOONS THROUGH FALCONS The only interior report of Yellow-billed Loon was an ad. 7 Jun (RS) on Ross L. near New Hazelton. Clark’s Grebes returned to Salmon Arm, where one of 2 birds was paired with a Western Grebe 2 Jun (RyT) and remained through the period. A female Magnificent Frigatebird was sighted from a whale-watch- ing boat out of Tofino 18 Jun (MW). A recent- ly-fledged juv. American Bittern was brought in to P.G.’s Northern Raptor Preservation Society’s bird hospital 18 Jul (ph. CM, RM) but unfortunately died a few days later. Great Egrets continue to occur with greater regulari- ty in the s. third of the province, where they are seen annually. Sightings are most numerous for late Apr to mid-May, suggestive of spring overshoots, whereas post-breeding dispersal produces a scattering of sightings mainly from Aug— Dec. This summer, however, produced an unusual number of egrets and from a variety of locations. It should be interesting to see if this is indicative of a larger post-breeding dis- persal for the coming fall season. Single birds were reported from Scout L, Williams L. 24 Jun-i- (PR, m. ob.); Mt. Lehman, Abbotsford 30 Jun (LM); and Tsawwassen 2-8 Jul (CWr, PL et al.). Well n. of its usual range, a Black-crowned Night-Heron was seen in a field near Dunster 29 Jul (DA, MA) and furnished the most northerly record for the Region. A pair of Gadwall at Stokes Pt. 19 Jun on the Yukon’s N. Coast (Arctic Ocean) was at the limit of the species’s range (PJ). A raft of 6 ad. Black Scoters was on Eaglet L. 50 km ene. of P.G. 29 Jul (MA, DD, HD) — both an early date and a surprisingly large number. Broad-winged Hawks are known to nest in the Peace R. area; however, summer sightings in the n.-cen. interior seem to suggest that they are more widespread. A pair at U.N.B.C. was seen sporadically through the period, but they managed to elude nest-seekers, so incontro- vertible evidence of breeding, in the area still 472 North American Birds Alaska — British Columbia-Yukon awaits us. One light-morph ad. was at Tudyah L., n. of McLeod L., 23 Jun (MP, KL). The pair of Swainson’s Hawks first discovered in spring was found at the nest near Rolla 6 Jun (JF). If successful, this would be the first nesting in the ne. part of the province. Near Trapp L. s. of Kamloops, a very late female Rough-legged Hawk was studied 17 Jun (RH). The Fraser/Chilcotin R. basin was surveyed for nesting raptors this summer, with four nests of Prairie Falcon and five nests of Golden Eagle being found {fide JH). All three ptarmigan species were seen at Mt. Victoria in the Dawson Range, Yukon 9 Jun: 4 Willow, 6 Rock, and 3 White-tailed (CE, AM). A female Rock Ptarmigan with 8 small young was seen on top of Mt. McIntyre 2 Jul (HG, RH), a rare Whse. area breeding record. RAILS THROUGH TERNS Yellow Rails put on quite a show at the s. end of Swan L. in the Peace R. area, with 2—3 territo- rial males calling 19 Jun— 4 Jul (JF, MPh, m. ob.). A Virginia Rail well n. and e. of its usual range at McQueen’s Slough ne. of Dawson Creek was thought to be territorial 21 Jun (MPh). Following an unprecedented spring invasion of Black-necked Stilts, the last remaining individual was reported from Lesser Green L., in company with five nesting pairs of American Avocets 23 Jun (LG). On 3 Jun there were 21 active avocet nests at Alki L. n. of Kelowna (LG, RyT). At Beaver Ranch Flats (Guichon Ranch, n. of Nicola L.) 1 1 Jun, there were 7 avocets (WD), and by 18 Jun, 3 downy chicks were observed (RH). On 19 Jun, a 2nd nest was located (LR), both confirming nesting for the first time in this area in 10 years. Census work conducted 5-6 Jun (LG et al.) showed that avocets had abandoned the Little White L. colony and had dispersed to form four new colonies that in total contained 35 avocets. The territorial pair of Upland Sandpipers at Fort Nelson Airport endured a barrage of adoring birders 26 Jun-7 Jul (m. ob.). Possible distrac- tion behavior was observed 7 Jul (BS, MB), although no young were seen. Other potential ne. British Columbia nesting sites include Coal Creek Rd. e. of Kiskatinaw Park, where 4 were seen 27 Jun (JF), and Braden Rd. n. of Progress, where a single bird was seen 27 Jul (JF). Whimbrel are very rare migrants through the cen. interior, thus 6 in a field on Cranbrook Hill, P.G. 3 Jun (DL, CLL) was sig- nificant. A huge assemblage of 23 ad. Long- billed Curlews was on a field w. of McBride 14 Jun (ES), and the count there was up to 31 ads. 17 Jun (ES). This occurred at a time when ads. should be escorting young ones around in family groups, but the observer found them surprisingly quiet and approachable, which seems to suggest that there had been a wide- spread curlew nesting failure in the Robson Valley. An ad. Ruff was discovered at Iona 1. 1 1 Jul (RTo), one of few records for early Jul. Reports of Wilson’s Phalarope from the Yukon included a pair at The Ndu L. 6 Jun (CE, AM), which provided an extension to the species’s known range; 2 females at Judas Cr., Marsh L. 15 Jun (PJ); 7 at Swan L., n. of Whse. 12 Jun (HG, BSi); and 2 juvs. at the Whse. sewage lagoons 26-29 Jul (CE). A subad. Long-tailed Jaeger was seen from shore at Clover Point, Victoria, where consid- ered casual 9 Jul (fPL, vt. CWo). Perhaps due to the Prairie drought, Franklin’s Gulls were unusually abundant in the Peace R. area, with 2000-3000 at Charlie L. Fort St. John 26 Jun (MTo, STo) and another 1500 at the F.S.J. sewage lagoons on the same day (GM). At least one individual was displaced as far as Marsh L. 15 Jun (PJ), where a second-summer bird pro- vided the 2nd Whse. area and 3rd Yukon record for the species. A Black-headed GuE became the 270th species to be recorded at R.P.B.O. 10 Jul (DA). At Christmas Island, in Salmon Arm, a local Ring-billed Gull counter reported that the number of nests reached 750 (TB); also at this location 17 Jun were 2 Caspian Terns (DGC), an ad. Herring Gull, and an ad. California Gull, the latter two not yet confirmed as breeders here. A second- summer Glaucous-winged Gull was discovered on Stuart L. near F.S.J. 1 1 Jun (MGS, RRa) and remained there through the 19th (ph. CA, NK), a long overdue addition to the local checklist area. Summer rarities at the Whse. landfill included a second-summer California Gull 21—22 Jun (CE), a first-summer Glaucous Gull 24-30 Jul (CE, LC), and an ad. Glaucous Gull 27-30 Jul (CE). Black-legged Kittiwakes, following their above-average showing this spring in nearshore waters, were seen more regularly throughout the summer as well, with up to 7 seen from R.P.B.O. 10 Jul (DA). A Forster’s Tern at Brunson L. 30 Jun {fide PR) is only the 2nd reported occurrence of this species in the Cariboo. Rare along the lower mainland. Black Terns were well represented this summer, with 2 over the Reifel parking lot 13 Jun (JI) and a single at the outer ponds on Iona 23 Jun (DBa). MURRELETS THROUGH PIPITS Ancient Murrelets surprised observers in Tofino with numerous summer sightings: a pair of ads. were off Cleland 1. 14 Jun {fide AD); 6 were in offshore waters 19 Jun (AD), among them a chick still covered in down, attended by parents and incapable of flight; a dead juv, capable of flight was also discovered on the same day; another dead chick was brought to the dock in town with many of its flight feathers still in the pinfeather stage; and 3 were seen near Tofino 27 Jun (JW). One might conclude that Ancient Murrelets are nesting in closer proximity to Vancouver 1. than the Q.C.L; however, this species does exhibit rapid postbreeding dispersal. Potentially the Region’s first Whiskered Auklet was sighted 172 nmi w. of Tasu Sound, Moresby L, Q.C.L 7 Jun (MF). Following this winter’s Northern Hawk Owl invasion, breeding was confirmed for the P.G. area 13 Jun {fide JB), and the nest at Becher Prairie, Riske Creek produced 4-5 juvs. 17 Jun (PR). A White- throated Swift was well away from its s. interior range when sighted over Oak St. in Vancouver 3 Jul (RTo), one of few records for the area. A Lewis’s Woodpecker was near the n. edge of its range at McBride 1 1 Jun fide ES); the closest nesting area is in the Thompson Valley. Very rare in the Peace R. area was a juv. Red-breasted Sapsucker s. of Pouce Coupe 31 Jul (JF). Our knowledge of the distribution of Yellow-bellied Flycatcher in the n. was edged ever forward with 2 singing birds at Keno City, Yukon 9 Jun (CE); 3 were noted at their regular location on the Mt. McIntyre B.B.S. near Whse. 13 Jun (CE). Furnishing one of few records for the lower mainland was an Alder Flycatcher at Colony Farm 22 fun (DTy). Least Flycatcher sightings are slowly on the increase in the lower mainland: one bird was at Grant Narrows R.P. 9 Jun— 1 Jul (KE, CAi). A singing Hammond’s Flycatcher at Ethel L. 7 Jun (CE) established a new c. Yukon location for this species. Blue Jays continue to expand their range in British Columbia, with a proba- ble breeding pair in Kimberley 16 Jul (RGo) and a single bird well n. of usual range in Fort Nelson 26 Jun (JB). A staggering 3000 swal- lows— mostly Bank, but also Tree, Violet- green, and Cliff — ^were staging at the Whse. sewage lagoons 26 Jul (CE). Two Northern Rough-winged Swallows, rare in the Yukon, were in the company of a group of Bank Swallows along the Yukon R. at Wolf Cr. Campground 9 Jun (PJ). Dewdrop Ecological Reserve w. of Tranquille produced a Canyon Wren for the first local sighting in 33 years. This may well be the most northerly record ever. Confirmation of this sighting was made 21 Jun (MH, RH). A Gray-cheeked Thrush was found singing on Mt. McLearn, just inside the boundary of Muncho L. P.P. 28 Jun (B.C.F.O.), which likely defines the ne. edge of the species’s range in the province. Gray Catbirds are acci- dental in the Peace R. area, yet this summer singing males furnished the 3rd and 4th area Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 473 records: Clayhurst Crossing 8 Jun (JF) and McQueen’s Slough 21 Jun (MPh). A report of a Lanius species 19 Jun (lA) at Pritchard, e. of Kamloops, was almost certainly a Loggerhead. Further expansion of the Northern Mockingbird’s range included singles from Chetwynd golf course 28-29 Jun (SB, PS) and Colleymount on Francois L. 1 Jul (KW, CWa). The find of the season was a male Sprague’s Pipit 26-30 Jun (MT, ST et al.) at the Fort Nelson Airport. The bird apparently acted like any other courting Sprague’s, with alternating sessions of air and ground time. This consti- tutes one of very few records for the province and the first modern sighting away from Riske Cr. WARBLERS THROUGH FINCHES Recently Tennessee Warbler numbers have been increasing in the cen. interior, but this year there was an explosion. Singing males popped up all over the P.G. area from widely scattered locales. Likely the best indicator was the McLeod L. B.B.S. on 20 Jun, where num- bers mushroomed to 11 singing males from the usual one or 2 (CA, JB). The increase in Tennessee Warblers was alsp noted along Racheria Loop Road, near Uppef'lLiard, Yukon 17 Jun (HG), where 15 were found. It would seem likely that some of these birds may find their way into the Okanagan thig coming fall or perhaps even along the coasn Gontinuing the two late May sightings of Chestnut-sided Warblers, there were an additional 2 singing males, one along McKinney Rd. e of Oliver 14-23 Jun (PH, RTo), the other along a power- line cut n. of Sechelt, Sunshine Coast 15 Jun— mid- Jul (ph. CC, DBr, RWC). Townsend’s Warblers were reported in low numbers from Whse., Teslin, Montana Mt., Dawson City, and Paint Mt. near Kluane L.; this species appar- ently has been increasing along the N. Klondike R. in recent years (GB). A singing male Black-throated Green Warbler was near Kledo Creek, Mile 340 of the Alaska Highway 10 Jul (BS, MB). This species is apparently spreading slowly northward into the Fort Nelson Lowlands, likely via the e. foothills of the Rockies. A Blackpoll Warbler, a rare sight, was on Scout I., William’s L. 2 Jun (TG). Also rare was an American Redstart along the nature dyke in Pitt Meadows 15—16 Jun (PG). American Redstarts continue to have a toe- hold in the Whse. area, with 2 at Huanka Cr. on the Atlin Rd. 17 Jun (PS) and one at Beaver Creek 7 Jun (MG). Three new locations of singing Ovenbirds in the P.G. area were detected: F.F.T.W. through the period (KF, m. ob.); 33 km s. of McLeod L. 20 Jun (CA, JB); and Crooked R. 100 km n. of P.G. 21-29 Jun (CMcG, JMcG). Yellow-breasted Chats are very rare in the lower mainland; one individ- ual was in Pitt Meadows 10 Jun (RWo), and a pair was seen off and on 10-23 Jun (KR) at Colony Farm. If breeding can be confirmed, this would constitute only the 2nd nesting record from the s. coast. Rose-breasted Grosbeaks continued to increase at widely scattered locations across the s. half of the province: a male visited a feeder at Florence L. near Victoria 12 Jun {fide DM); a female visited a feeder in P.G. 5 Jun (TG); and yet another was near Kaslo 13 Jun (LS). A Vesper Sparrow, very rare on the outer coast, furnished the 2nd local record 2 Jun at the Long Beach Airport near Tofino (fide AD). In recent years. Lazuli Buntings are turning up in the cen. interior with regularity. A male attended a feeder in McBride 4-10 Jun [fide ES), another male was near Quesnel 5 Jun (AL), and a female turned up at Golleymount in mid-Jun (KW). A male Indigo Bunting was a very rare find in downtown Sechelt 5 Jul (AS). Furnishing the 7th documented record in the province, an ad. male Dickcissel visited a feeder at Francois L. 20-26 Jun (ph. KW, CWa). This would also constitute the most nw. occurrence in the Region. A Clay-colored Sparrow singing at Wye L. in Watson L. 1 1 8c 14 Jun provided a rare Yukon record (PJ). A singing White-throated Sparrow was noted right at the edge of its range on the Rancheria B.B.S. route 16 Jun (HG). A female Brewer’s Blackbird, very rare in the Yukon, was reported by two independent observers in downtown Whse. 2 Jun (HH; NH). Kelowna’s Great- tailed Crackle continued to be seen through- out the period (m. ob.). Contributors (subregional editors in bold- face); Ian Adams, David Ainley, Marika Ainley, Cathy Aitchison, David AUinson (Victoria), Cathy Antoniazzi, Maria Antoniazzi, Daniel Bastaja, Stephen Bennett, Jack Bowling (Prince George), Tom Brighouse, Murray Brown, Greg Brunner, Linda Cameron, R. Wayne Campbell, Peter Candido, Dick Cannings (South Okanagan), Chris Charlesworth (Kelowna), Larry Cowan (Vancouver), Wayne Daikow, Gary Davidson (Kootenays), Alan Dean, Adrian Dorst (Tofino-Ucluelet), Dan Dunlop, Helen Dunlop, Cameron Eckert (Yukon), Kyle Elliott, Jamie Fenneman (Peace River), Michael Force, Kevin Fort, Tom Godin, Ruth Goodwin, Helmut Griinberg (Yukon), Les Gyug, Peter Hall, Mike Hanry, Jared Hobbs, John Ireland, Paul Jones, Nancy Krueger, Gord Labinsky, Adrian Leather, David Lehman, Paul Lehman, Cheryl Livingston-Lehman, Kathleen Love, Chad Morey, Rachel Morey, Anne Munier, Hylda Mayfield, Carolyn McGhee, Jack McGhee, Len Miller, Guy Monty, Mark Phinney (Peace River), Michael Price, Phil Ranson (Gariboo-Chilcotin), Randy Rawluk, Louise Rice, Michael G. Shepard, Peter Sherrington, Betty Siegel, Arnold Skie, Elsie Stanley, Brian Stech, Ray Sturney, Lorna Surina, Ryan Tomlinson, Mike Toochin, Rick Toochin, Sharon Toochin, Danny Tyson, Gathy Walker (GWa), Keith Walker, Don Wilson, Ghris Wood (CWo), Mike Woods, Robert Worona, Chris Wright (CWr). Birders' Exchange > Assist in bird conservation, research, and outreach in the Neotropics by donating your used but still func- tional birding equipment to Birders' Exchange. We collect binoculars, spotting scopes, neotropical field guides, and backpacks for distribution to research and education organizations in the Neotropics. We also accept financial contributions to support the program. Please send your donations to: Birders' Exchange, American Birding Association, 720 West Monument Street, PO Box 6599, Colorado Springs, CO 80934. http://americanbirding.org/bex 474 North American Birds Oregon-Washington Cape i(S>'' Flattery ^4 fort Angeles Ocean Shores, Westport' Ledbettei Point Boileri Bay Newport Steven MIodinow 4819 Gardner Avenue Everett, Washington 98203 (SGMIod@aol.com) Bill Tweit P.O. 60X 1271 Olympia, Washington 98507-1271 (Sebnabgill@aol.com) This summer provided two main themes for Pacific Northwest birders. First, the influx of Great Basin species that began this spring led to a number of unusual breeding attempts/records involving White-faced Ibis, Black-necked Stilt, Wilson’s Phalarope, and Black Tern. Additionally, American White Pelicans were found on the westside in unprecedented numbers. The second theme involved vagrant “eastern” warblers. Eight species of these warblers were found this sum- mer, the best such total in at least a decade. Most were in se. Oregon, as is usual. “Best Bird” honors goes to Malheur’s Worm-eating Warbler, which was Oregon’s second, and to Chelan’s Northern Hawk Owl, a Regional summer first. Weatherwise, the westside was normal to wet this summer, but the eastside remained very dry. Abbreviations: F.R.R. (Fern Ridge Reservoir, Lane); Malheur (Malheur N.W.R., Harney); N.S.C.B. (N. Spit Coos Bay, Coos); O.S. (Ocean Shores, Grays Harbor); Ridgefield (Ridgefield N.W.R., Clark); W.W.R.D. (Walla Walla R. delta, Walla Walla); Y.R.D. (Yakima R. delta, Benton, WA). “Eastside” and “westside” denote areas east and west of the Cascade crest, respectively. LOONS THROUGH CRANES A Horned Grebe nest was found at Mud L., Okanogan 6 Jul (AS); they are extremely rare breeders in Washington. Clark’s Grebes are casual at best during summer in w. Washington (and rare at any time), so a con- centration of 20 at Vancouver L., Clark 8—21 Jun was most astounding (WC, TA). A Short- tailed Albatross off Newport 24 Mar was about the 6th for Oregon and 8th for the Region over the last 50 years (ph. TS); most have been Nov-Jan. A Northern Fulmar was seen from shore at O.S. 14 Jul (PL); they are rare from shore in Washington, especially dur- ing summer. Offshore, numbers of fulmar averaged 85 per trip (TRW), indicating a poor summer. Pink-footed Shearwater numbers, however, were exceptional, averaging 175 per trip (TRW). Sooty Shearwaters often congre- gate just inside the mouth of Willapa Bay dur- ing late summer, but an estimated 200,000 on 13 Jul topped anything seen in recent years (PL), and a count of 27,500 off Westport 15 Jul (BTw) was also very high. Two Manx Shearwaters were at Boiler Bay, Lincoln 22 Jun, and one was there 9 Jul (PP). Large numbers of American White Pelicans were still wandering around the westside this summer, with maxima of 70 at N. Portland 26 Jul (T. Clark), 45 at F.R.R. 27 Jul (DaF), and 30 at Vancouver L., Clark 21 Jun (TA, SG). Brown Pelican numbers this summer were the poor- est in several years (HN, BTw); time will tell if they are late or if the autumn peak is truly low. A Snowy Egret at Everett, Snohomish 1 Jul pro- vided Snohomish with its first record of this rare-but-annual summer visitor to Washington (vt. BL, NL). A Green Heron, very rare in e. Washington, was at Bingen, Klickitat 16-17 Jun (WC, KK). As many as 13 White- faced Ibis remained at L. Kahlotus, Franklin until 1 3 Jun; some of these were carrying nest material, but the flock abandoned the area by the end of Jun (TA, BF, KK). The Port Angeles Emperor Goose survived another summer (PL). A tally of 44 Black Brant at Tillamook Bay 2 Jun was exceptional for summer (JG, OS). A male Eurasian Wigeon at Beulah Res., Malheur 16 Jun pro- vided the first Regional summer record (J. Gatchett); this species is rare in e. Oregon at any time. A brood of Northern Shoveler, a rare breeder in Oregon, was at Ankeny N.W.R., Marion 29 Jun (AC). Greater Scaup are very rare on the eastside during summer; this year, there were 3 at Lost L., Okanogan 2 Jun (BF) and 5 at L. Lenore, Grant 25 Jun (TA). Records of rare westside breeders included a brood of Lesser Scaup at Deer Lagoon, Island (SM, RR), two broods of Lesser Scaup at Stanwood, Snohomish (TA, SM, DD), and a brood of Green-winged Teal at Everett (SM). Bufflehead broods were at L. Lenore, Grant 3 Jul and Baker L., Okanogan 4 Jul (PL); they are very rare nesters in Washington. A Common Goldeneye brood was among the many Barrow’s at L. Lenore, Grant 25 Jun (TA); not only was this the Region’s southernmost breeding record, but it comes from an area with no trees! The Barrow’s here breed on the nearby cliffs. The robust Osprey colony at Everett, Snohomish boasted 23 nests with 54 young during mid- Jul (E. Schulz). Though increasing in the Region, Red-shouldered Hawks are still rare during summer n. of southernmost Oregon. Thus, singles near Halsey, Linn 20 Jun (AC), Coyote Cr., Lane 13 Jun (LM, D. Arendt), and Spencer Cr., Lane throughout the summer (G. Clarke) were noteworthy. Even more unusual was an ad. near Brady, Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 475 Grays Harbor 22-31 Jul, which provided Washington’s first summer record (ph. RS). Washington’s 4th record of a northbound Broad-winged Hawk was near Joyce, Clallam 4 Jun (tDB). A Rough-legged Hawk near Ritzville, Adams 5 Jun was about six weeks late and may be the first ever for the summer sea- son (BN). A California Quail in a subalpine meadow at 4000 ft in Marion must have been a wee bit confused (SD). One of this spring’s Common Moorhens remained at Malheur until 18 Jul (CG). Twelve Sandhill Cranes, very rare during summer on the westside, were at Sauvie I. 1-16 Jul (M. Stern); 2 of these appeared to be Lesser Sandhills (HN). SHOREBIRDS THROUGH WOODPECKERS Neither golden-plover is quite annual during summer, though Pacifies are almost so. This summer, an American Golden-Plover was at Boiler Bay, Lincoln 13 Jul (T. Love), and single Pacifies were at Baskett Slough, Polk 16-19 Jun (M. Cutler, PVV) and N.S.C.B. 20 Jun (TR); mid-Jun records of golden-plovers are almost unprecedented. Eight ad. Black-necked Stilts hatched 3 young at Ridgefield (RS, PtS), and 2 ads. raised 5 young at Baskett Slough, Polk (M. Cutler, H. Batchelder), providing the westside with its first breeding records. Additionally, 2 nonbreeding stilts were at F.R.R. 2-14 Jun (11 Brown, M. Maffei). Single Ameri an Avocets, very rare on the westside during summer, were at F.R.R. to 5 Jun (DDW) and Ankeny N.W.R., Marion 11 Jul (JL). Solitary Sandpipers were unusually numerous this summer, with 13 reported, starting with 2 early birds at Riverbend, Pend Oreille 25 Jun (RAR) and peaking with 4 near Chesaw, Okanogan 21 Jul (BL, NL); the Region averages 4 per summer. An Upland Sandpiper was at N.S.C.B. 20 Jun (DL, KC, TR); this species is very rare on the westside at anytime and casual during sum- mer. A Whimbrel at Summer L., Lake 4 Jun was on the eastside, where very rare (RG). For the 4th consecutive summer. Bar-tailed Godwits were found in the Region, with 2 at O.S. 7 Jul (vt. SM, DD, RR) and one remaining until 13 Jul (PL); Bar-taileds were formerly accidental as early as Jul. A late northbound Semipalmated Sandpiper was at Tenmile Cr., Coos 9 Jun (DL, KC), while a slightly early southbound individual was at Riverbend 25 Jun (RAR). A total of 45 southbound Semipalmateds was reported, a bit below aver- age, with a maximum of 12 near Sequim, Clallam 15 Jul (SM, RR). Two Baird’s Sandpipers at Baskett Slough 19 Jun furnished a highly unusual midsummer report (EM). Eight Pectoral Sandpipers this summer was well above average, and one w. of Othello 1 Jul was early (BL). An early southbound Dunlin was at Deer Lagoon, Island 14—28 Jul (SM, RR); another Dunlin was at Clatsop Spit 10 Jun (JG, OS), and 2 were at N.S.C.B. 9 Jul (TR). A juv. Stilt Sandpiper on Fir L, Skagit 28 Jul was three weeks early (ph. RS, PtS). A male Wilson’s Phalarope performing distraction displays at Brady, Grays Harbor 1 Jul (SM) provided the first nesting evidence in w. Washington since 1975! This species was also found breeding in w. Oregon, where very rare: several nests were at Baskett Slough (RG), one pair nested at F.R.R. (DDW, D. Brown), and nesting may have occurred at Jackson Bottom (HN). Eight South Polar Skuas were seen on four pelagic trips off Westport (TRW) — excellent for mid-summer. Franklin’s Gulls continued to wander the Oregon coast, with singles at Boiler Bay, Lincoln 29 Jun (PP), N.S.C.B. 4 Jul (DL, KC), and Brookings, Curry 13 Jul (DM). In e. Washington, one was at W.W.R.D. 1-2 Jun (KK) and 2 there 17 Jun (BL, NL); one was at Othello, Adams 5 Jun (BF); one was at L. Lenore, Grant 25 Jun (TA); and 2 were at Paterson Slough, Benton 30 Jun (BL, NL). Franklin’s are barely annual during summer in e. Washington and extremely rare on the outer coast. A first-summer Little Gull was at Everett from mid-Jul-1 Aug; it was found dead on the last date (EH, *Univ. Puget Sound). Washington has only three previous summer records. A concentration of 7000 California Gulls at Cultus Bay, Island 22 Jul was exceptional (SM, DD). Black-legged Kittiwakes, mostly nonadults, summered in unusual numbers. Early concentrations were on the outer coast, with maxima of 250 at Clatsop Spit 10 Jun (JG, OS) and 200 near O.S. 1 Jun (PWS). Later, some moved into the Strait of Juan de Fuca, with a maximum of 75 at Sekiu, Clallam 15 Jul (SM, RR). Point Wilson, Jefferson furnished the most easterly record on 12 Jul (PL). An Arctic Tern, very rare on the eastside, was at Confluence S.P., Chelan 13 Jun (fDB); most eastside records are from fall. Very rare for the westside during summer was a Forster’s Tern at Brookings, Curry 29 Jul (DM) and one at Vancouver L., Clark 20 Jun (TA, S. Gerstle). Eight Black Terns chose to summer at Ridgefield, building at least three nests and providing w. Washington’s first breeding record (J. Engler, BTw). In w. Oregon, Black Terns occupied one of their two known nest- ing locations, F.R.R. (DDW). An Ancient Murrelet was at Boiler Bay, Lincoln 9 Jul (PP); this species is very rare during summer in Oregon. Although most pelagic species seemed to find good forage this summer. Cassin’s Auklet numbers remained disap- pointingly low offshore, averaging 5 per pelag- ic trip (TRW). For the 4th summer of the last 5, Horned Puffins were found on the Oregon coast. One was at Cape Foulweather, Lincoln 23 May and 29 Jun (DFi, DP), and possibly the same bird flew by Boiler Bay 9 Jul (PP). Five Band-tailed Pigeons were near Chelan 7 Jun (M. Spencer); they are rare on the e. slope of the Cascades. A Northern Hawk Owl was in seemingly appropriate breeding habitat near Sugarloaf Lookout, Chelan 1-12 Jul (F. dejong, DS); this is the Region’s first summer record. Great Gray Owls are still rarely encountered in Washington, so one near Walker Cr., Okanogan 1 Jun was noteworthy (BF). A Costa’s Hummingbird was at Indian Ford Cr., Deschutes 1 Jun (JL); Oregon aver- ages about one every other summer. Three Acorn Woodpeckers near Lyle, Klickitat 1 Jun demonstrated that this species maintains its foothold in Washington (WC). FLYCATCHERS THROUGH MIMIDS Least Flycatcher numbers were down this summer, with one near Juntura, Malheur 27 Jun (TS) and one along Maloy Rd., Yakima 9 Jun (KK); the Region has averaged about 9 per summer over recent years. Washington’s 5th Eastern Phoebe remained at Leavenworth, Chelan until 26 Jun (SA, fMD, vt. SM). An Ash-throated Flycatcher, casual during sum- mer in w. Washington, was at Port Stanley, Island 18 Jul (fL. Falb); singles at Mt. Pisgah, Lane 6 Jul (D. Smith) and summering at Eugene, Lane (LM) were much closer to this species’s usual range in sw. Oregon. An Eastern Kingbird, extremely rare on Washington’s outer coast, was on Tatoosh L, Clallam 6-7 Jun (RP, TWo). Nine Clark’s Nutcrackers below 500 ft elevation near Lyle, Klickitat 16 Jun were most unexpected, espe- cially during summer (WC). Very rare in e. Washington, a Purple Martin visited Bingen, Klickitat 11 Jul (WC). New Bank Swallow colonies continue to be found on the westside, where currently very local: about 10 birds were nesting near Auburn (B. Pendleton), and 20 were nesting near Carver, Clackamas (ES). A recently discovered colony near Castle Rock, Cow/itz sported 75-100 nest burrows (J. Sheldon). A Mountain Chickadee in Redmond, King 17-31 Jul provided a possi- bly unprecedented summer lowland westside record (G. Oliver). A Rock Wren at Clatsop Spit 3 Jun was well away from breeding habi- tat and on the outer coast where extremely rare (TT). Broods of Bewick’s Wrens near Elgin, Union, at Washtuena, Adams, and L. Kahlotus, Frariklin provided evidence of con- 476 North American Birds Oregon-Washington tinued range expansion (W. Stone, CC, SM, DD). A Canyon Wren, first found in Mar, remained at Beacon Rock, Skamania to 16 Jun (WC), and one was at Table Mt., Skamania 1 1 Jul (C. Chappell); this species is extremely rare in w. Washington. Five Northern Mockingbirds this summer, about average, included singles at Tatoosh I., Clallam 8 Jun (RP), near Six Prong, Klickitat 2-11 Jul (WC), at O.S. 13 Jul (A. Dean, PL, vt. BTw), Bayocean Spit, Tillamook 17 Jul (fide CR), and Falls City, Polk 26 Jul (B. Tice). WARBLERS THROUGH FINCHES A Virginia’s Warbler was at Castle Rock, Malheur 16 Jun (J. Gatchett); they were first found summering in se. Oregon during 1998. Washington’s 11th Northern Parula was a cooperative singing male at L. Ozette, Clallam 2 Jun— 3 Jul (S. Gremel); seven of the previous 10 records were 30 May- 13 Jul. One of the most peculiar finds of the summer was a male Yellow Warhler paired with a female American Redstart near Tenino, Thurston 20 Jun (P. Hicks). The redstart was subsequently found sitting on a nest, but some time after 28 Jun, the nest was abandoned, perhaps due to a severe storm. Redstarts are rare and very local breeders on the westside. There was a mini- invasion of Chestnut-sided Warblers, with singles at Malheur 10 Jun (M&J Rodegerdts), Catlow Valley, Harney 1 Jul (TM, A. Mickel), and Upper Klamath L., Klamath 11 Jul (J. Field); there are now approximately 40 Oregon records. A Magnolia Warbler was near Sublimity, Marion 17 Jun (JH, B. Thackaberry); there are now about 35 Oregon records, though relatively few from mid-sum- mer. Similarly, Blackpoll Warblers are annual in Oregon but with relatively few mid-sum- mer dates. Thus, one near Ashland, Jackson 16 Jun was noteworthy (R. Ketchum). Black-and- white Warblers were at Fields, Harney 3 Jun (TB), Brookings, Curry 1 Jul (DM), and near Agency L., Klamath 16 Jul (B. Wieland); the Region averages approximately 3 per summer. Oregon’s 7th Prothonotary Warbler was banded at Upper Klamath L. 2 Jul (ph. B. Wieland); most previous records were 19 Aug- 19 Oct, and this is the first for Jul. Oregon’s 2nd Worm-eating Warbler was at Malheur 10-11 Jun (AC, HH); the previous state record was also at Malheur 16 Sep 1990 (Gilligan et al.. Birds of Oregon). Washington’s 16th Ovenbird was singing at Vancouver, Clark 15 Jun (fj. Johnson). Northern Waterthrushes again occupied their only known w. Oregon breeding site at Salt Cr. Falls, Lane (HH). A Yellow-breasted Chat near Camp Bonneville, Clark 1 Jul was the 25th in w. Washington since 1970 (WC); most have been late May-late Jun. Green-tailed Towhees in Washington are known to breed only at a few locations in the Blue Mts. A singing male near Copper Cr., Walla Walla 30 Jun was in the Blue Mts. but at a new location for this species (KA, SM). Green-taileds were also at their established site at Biscuit Ridge, Walla Walla (KK, BL, NL). A Clay-colored Sparrow was near Blueslide, Pend Oreille 25 Jun (RAR); this species is a very rare summer visitor to e. Washington, with most records from near Spokane. Even more unusual was a summer Clay-colored on the outer coast at Brookings, Curry 16 Jun (DM). Four Brewer’s Sparrows at Big Meadow, Linn 5 Jul would suggest breeding nearby (RG), but one at F.R.R. 6 Jul was a very rare summer stray (V. Arnold, K. Fairchild); until recently, this species was considered strictly a vagrant on the westside. Two Black- throated Sparrows occupied their traditional site near Vantage, Kittitas 9 Jun-29 Jul, for the only Washington record this year (KK, BS, BL). A Lark Bunting near Eugene, Lane 1 1-24 Jun furnished Oregon with its 23rd or so record (DH); very few have been from mid- summer. A Gray-headed Junco in the Trout Gr. Mts., Harney 9 Jun provided Oregon’s 6th record (SD); a small breeding population like- ly exists in extreme se. Oregon, as nesting was confirmed in Malheur during 1999. For the 3rd consecutive summer, a Lapland Longspur was found on the Oregon coast: one was at Clatsop Spit 3 Jun (TT). There are now 7 Regional summer records. The spring’s invasion of Rose-breasted Grosbeaks continued. Nine were found in Oregon, mostly in early and mid-Jun, well above the roughly 5-per-summer average. Washington, averaging only about one per summer, had 2: one near Port Townsend, Jefferson 1 Jun (P. Conklin) and another near Leavenworth, Chelan 23 Jun (fMD). A Lazuli Bunting near Lebam, Pacific 1 Jul furnished what is probably Washington’s westernmost summer record (SM, RR, DD). Washington’s 12th Indigo Bunting was at Roy, Pierce 10 Jun (tl. Holmquist); five of Washington’s records have been during this and last May/June. In Oregon, an Indigo Bunting was near Alpine, Benton 17 Jul (E. Eltzroth); there are now about 50 Oregon records. Thirty Tricolored Blackbirds were still present at Washington’s sole breeding colony near Wilson Cr., Grant 10 Jun (BS), and 3 remained until 23 Jun (BL, NL). A singing male Rusty Blackbird on Tatoosh L, Clallam 22—23 Jun was wholly unexpected (RP, TWo). Not only did it pro- vide the Region’s first summer record, but this species is casual on Washington’s outer coast at any season. Initialed observers (subregional editors in boldface); Kevin Aanerud, Scott Atkinson, Tom Aversa, David Beaudette, Trent Bray, Wilson Cady, Kathy Castelein, Alan Contreras, Craig Corder, Mike Denny, Don DeWitt (DDW), Steve Dowlan, Dennis Duffy, Daniel Farrar (DaF), David Fix (DFi), Bob Flores, Chuck Gates, Roy Gerig, Steve Gerstle, Jeff Gilligan, Jeff Harding, Hendrik Herlyn, Dan Heyerly, Eugene Hunn, Kraig Kemper, Bruce LaBar, Bill LaFramboise (Columbia Basin), Nancy LaFramboise, David Lauten, Paul Lehman, John Lundsten, Larry McQueen, Ed McVicker, Tom Mickel (Lane), Don Munson, Harry Nehls (OR), Bob Norton (Olympic Peninsula), Robert Paine, Diane Pettey, Phil Pickering, Craig Roberts, Tim Rodenkirk, Russell Rogers (WA), Richard A. Rowlett, Owen Schmidt, Bill Shelmerdine, Tim Shelmerdine, P. William Smith, Elmer Specht, Dan Stephens (Chelan), Andy Stepniewski, Patrick Sullivan (PtS), Paul Sullivan (PS, E. OR), Ruth Sullivan, Todd Thornton, Patti Van Vlack (PW), Terry R. Wahl, Tim Wootton. It taL titan Iticlc. es more than Ltic u to preserve/ protect/ cinJ restore our lieritoge - It takes you. Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 477 Middle Pacific Coast Daniel S. Singer (Herons to Shorebirds) c/o Arroyo & Coates 500 Washington Street, Suite 700 San Francisco, California 941 1 1 (dsg@isp.net) Steven A. Glover (Doves to Wrentit) 6526 Conestoga Lane Dublin, California 94568 (Sgloverccc@aol.com) Scott B. Terrill & Thomas P. Ryan (Loons to Frigatebirds, Larids to Alcids) H. T. Harvey & Associates 3150 Almaden Expressway, Sutie 145 San Jose, California 95118 (sterrill@harveyecology.com) (tryan@harveyecoiogy.com) Don Roberson (Thrashers to Finches) 282 Grove Acre Avenue Pacific Grove, California 93950 (creagrus@montereybay.com) Summer 2001 saw a continuation of drought conditions, particularly in the northeast. The coast was sunny in June but often fog- draped by July. The incursion of “southeastern” vagrants that began in mid-May continued well into June. As noted in the spring report, this influx correlated with atypical weather condi- tions over the Gulf of Mexico during the major trans-Gulf passerine migration period. Abbreviations: C.B.R.C. (California Bird Records Committee); C.V. (Central Valley); El. (Southeast Farallon I.), N.S. (National Seashore); O.S.R (Open Space Preserve); S.F. (San Francisco); R.P. (Regional Park); R.S. (Regional Shoreline); S.R. (State Reserve); W.A. (Wildlife Area). This is Dan Singer’s final report as a member of our group of Regional editors. He has analyzed the blizzard of records of waterfowl, raptor, and waders over the past decade, and his expertise will be missed. We welcome Michael M. Rogers — just off a stint as Secretary of the C.B.R.C. — in his stead. Reports of exceptional vagrants submitted without documentation are normally not published. Observers wishing C.B.R.C. review should also send their docu- mentation to Guy McCaskie, Secretary, P.O. Box 275, San Diego, CA 91933. Banded birds on F.I. should be credited to Point Reyes Bird Observatory, those banded at Big Sur R. mouth to Big Sur Ornithology Lab of the Ventana Wilderness Society. Colonial waterbird counts on S.F. Bay and landbirds banded at Coyote Cr., Santa Clara should be credited to San Francisco Bay Bird Observatory. C consecutive year, a Shy w»%Albatross occurred in waters off cen. California: this year’s bird was an imm. off- shore of Sonoma 27 Jul (ph. DN). What makes this unprecedented series of occur- rences even more remarkable is that this species was first recorded in California waters only three years ago. To further put this situ- ation into perspective. Shy Albatrosses have only been recorded in the northern hemisphere five times outside of our records: Washington State (Sep 1951, Jan 2000), Oregon (Oct 1996), Israel (Feb-Mar 1981), and Somalia (Sep 1986). Finally, it appears that more than one taxon have likely been involved in the California records, although more research on these birds is currently underway. Albatross taxonomy, including the Shy Albatross group, is currently in substantial flux. The Shy Albatross complex is currently treated as one species by the American Ornithologists’ Union but has been consid- ered to comprise up to four species by others. Cole (2000; N. A. B. 54: 124—135) summa- rized Shy Albatross occurrences, distribution, and the taxonomic situation, and he conclud- ed that the first California bird (Aug 1999), an ad., was a Shy Albatross of the nominate form Thalassarche cauta cauta. The next Shy to occur off California on 29 Jul 2000 was an imm. and, remarkably, appears to have been a Salvin’s Albatross (T. [c.j salvini), although the taxonomic identification of the bird is still being analyzed. These were followed by obser- vations of imm. Shy “types” close to the same location on 10 & 17 Sep 2000. It is currently unclear how many individuals were involved in these sightings, but observers who saw the 29 Jul and 10 Sep birds thought that different individuals were involved based on bill color. This year’s bird, well photographed on 27 Jul, may well be yet another individual, and its taxonomic status has yet to be determined. All of these records are currendy under review, but the last three years’ showing of Shy Albatrosses off our Region is mind-boggling, whatever their taxonomic dispensation turns out to be. 478 North American Biros Middle Pacific Coast LOONS THROUGH HERONS Three Laysan Albatrosses were on Monterey Bay, Monterey 1 Jun (DLSh et al). Up to 3 Least Bitterns at Clear L.’s Kelsey Cr. outlet 20 Jul into Sep comprised Lake’s 3rd documented record (JRW, DvW, m. ob.). Single ad. Little Blue Herons were noted 4 Jul along Artesian Slough, Santa Clara (AV) and 10 Jul along Alameda Cr., Alameda (PEG). Extremely dry conditions in Sierra Valley, Plumas forced White-faced Ibis to look elsewhere for more favorable breeding habitat (MMC). Last year, an estimated 1700+ pairs nested there (M A. B. 54: 420). GEESE THROUGH SHOREBIRDS A Cackling Canada Goose (race minima) at Roberts L., Seaside, Monterey 4 Jun (DR) rep- resents one of a handful of very late migrant records from our notebooks. Sixty-four Greater Scaup 17 Jul near Petaluma, Sonoma was far more than usual for summer (RS). Reports of Bufflehead were slightly above aver- age, with 5 reported coastally and individuals on Sierran lakes in Tuolumne 4 Jun (KJB) and Madera 24-30 Jun (J&DP). Two broods of Hooded Merganser at Antelope L., Plumas 1 Jul (RS) marked the Region’s 2nd nesting since 1998 {N. A. B. 52: 499), but these are the only breeding records of which we have knowledge since 1981. A Ruddy Duck and her brood at Heather Farms Park 5 Jun (Hugh Harvey) was the first confirmation for Contra Costa’s breed- ing bird atlas (now in its 4th year). This species can be surprisingly scarce as a breeder in parts of the greater Bay Area. Two Bald Eagles at Don Pedro Res., Tuolumne 3 Jun (Linda Fruge) were considered unusually late, although breeding attempts should not be ruled out because the species is recolonizing the former breeding range in California as it continues a highly successful recovery continentwide. Two displaying Sharp-shinned Hawks along Mosquito Ridge Road 5 Jun (BDW) made for a rare summer record for Placer. A Prairie Falcon over Neary Lagoon 10 Jun (BMMo) was unusual near the coast on this date and represented a summer first for Santa Cruz. As expected, many of the interesting shore- birds reported this season were ads. Reports of unaged shorebirds involving less common or rare species are problematic and are not likely to be published. Different individual ad. American Golden-Plovers were at Redwood Shores, San Mateo 12-15 Jul (RSTh, PJM) and 17 Jul (RSTh). Single Pacific Golden-Plovers were noted at Ravenswood O.S.P., San Mateo 23—26 Jul (RSTh) and at the mouth of Salmon Cr., Sonoma 3 1 Jul (DAsh). Snowy Plovers con- tinued to show strong reproductive success on Eel R. gravel bars in Humboldt (SMcA). A Semipalmated Plover just w. of Sierraville 9 Jun was believed to be Sierra’s first, though there are records nearby from Sierra Valley in Plumas (MMC). Four Semipalmated Sandpipers spanning 9-28 Jul were most cer- tainly all ads., though only 2 were reported as such. Certainly one of the avian highlights of the summer was the Region’s 4th Red-necked Stint: a beautiful alternate-plumaged ad. graced Moss Landing, Monterey 13-14 Jul (DEG; ph. JSo, fDR, fDSg). There are current- ly only eight records for the state. An ad. Pectoral Sandpiper at Moss Landing, Monterey 20-21 Jul was the only one reported but typi- cal of most Julys (RF, DR). GULLS THROUGH ALCIDS Two pairs of Western Gulls nested at Bay Point, Contra Costa 10 Jun. This represents an unusually e. record within S.F. Bay for this species (SAG). Three pairs of Heermann’s Gulls again attempted to nest at Roberts L., Seaside, Monterey (DR, RC), but this year the attempts failed. Caspian Terns fledged young from at least two nests at Salinas R. mouth, Montereyhy 21 Jul (RC, DR); they have had lit- tle success at this site in recent years. Unusual summer records of Common Terns were noted in S.F. Bay: first-summer birds included up to 5 at Redwood Shores, San Mateo 23 Jun-7 Jul (RSTh et al.) and between 10-27 Jul (PJM, Adam Winer, m. ob.); one at Charleston Slough 29 Jul (PJM); and one at Sunnyvale 31 July-5 Aug (RWR, FV), both Santa Clara. Ad. Commons included one at Charleston Slough 24 Jun and 2 in Eureka, Humboldt 26 Jul (EE). Forster’s Terns nested at multiple sites in S.F. Bay. Among these colonies, 381 nests were counted at Evaporator Pond A16, Santa Clara (JTH). After returning for seven years, the Arctic Tern did not return to breed at Hayward R.S., Alameda this summer (RJR). Two ad. Least Terns at Berenda Reservoir 1 Jun (fLkC) made a first for Madera. Within the C.V., three pairs nested successfully again this year near Kettleman City, Kings 13 Jul (JSe, SBT). This is the only inland nesting colony in the state. The Least Tern nesting colony on artificial shell mounds at Albany, Contra Costa reached a new high of 51 individuals on 10 Jun. This is signif- icant, as there is only one other nesting colony for this Endangered species in S.F. Bay (Mark Rauzon). Three to five pairs of Black Skimmers nested in the S.F. Bay area, a new high for the Region. Two pairs attempted to nest at Hayward R.S. 3 Jun— 8 Jul: one pair produced 2 young, but none fledged (RJR). Another pair attempted to nest near Menlo Park, San Mateo 15 Jul (PJM); this pair has been here since 1996. Up to 4 ad. and 2 young were observed at Evaporator Pond A16, Santa Clara 3 Jun— 14 Jul (JTH, RWR, MJM, FV et al). The first mid- summer record for this species in Contra Costa occurred 19 Jun at Pt. Isabel R.S. (Dustin Alcala). An unusual “dark morph” Common Murre was at Table Bluff, Humboldt 31 Jul (EE). The earliest pair of Xantus’s Murrelet on Monterey Bay, Monterey this summer/fafi was 3 Jul (JBo), but water temperatures there were rather cool throughout the season. A Horned Puffin in alternate plumage was just 1.6 nmi off the Mendocino Headlands, Mendocino 10 Jul (PAH, EE). Out-of-range Yellow-billed Cuckoos were at Eel R., Humboldt 1-6 Jul (TMcK, SMcA, ANT) and Mono City, Mono 2 Jul (window kill; fide KNN). A freshly road-killed Short-eared Owl at Aho Nuevo S.R. 18 Jul provided San Mateo’s first summer record (Brian Walton). An absence of Common Nighthawk reports from coastal Humboldt has raised concern that the local urban population may have been extir- pated (DFx). On the heels of the apparent dis- appearance of Black Swift as a breeder in coastal Santa Cruz comes news that for the first time in memory no Black Swifts were reported from San Mateo, not even at Ano Nuevo S.R. (PJM). Early migrant Vaux’s Swifts were at Ukiah, Mendocino 21 Jul (6; CEV) and at Lakeport 3 Aug {Lake’s earliest; JRW), but one near S.F. Bay at Palo Alto, Santa Clara 5 Jul was unexpected (WGB). Unseasonal Lewis’s Woodpeckers were at Summit Ridge, Santa Clara/Santa Cruz 1 Jun (RWR, FV) and near Woodside 8 Jun (first in summer for San Mateo; RSTh). An Acorn Woodpecker 21 Jun near upper Rush Cr. was one of the few ever found in Mono (Mark Pollock). A Nuttall’s Woodpecker 1 Jul at Weaverville was the first ever found in Trinity during the breeding sea- son (JCS), while another was in S.F. city, where barely annual, 26 Jun (ASH, AR). Both may represent post-breeding dispersal, but this species’s range has expanded in recent decades. Most encouraging were 3 Willow Flycatcher nests at lower Rush Cr., Mono, the first found in the Mono Basin in at least 15 years (CMcC). It is unknown if Willow Flycatchers currently nest in Shasta, but one at Hat Cr. 8 Jul is a strong indication that they do (Ray Bruun). With the exception of a single early bird in S. F. city 11-14 May (HuC, MWE), the coastal migration of Willow Flycatchers was typical, with small numbers found 2-24 Jun; however, one banded at Coyote Cr., Santa Clara 22 Jul was a full month earlier than they are usually recorded as fall migrants (/ideWGB). The dis- covery of 2 singing Cordilleran Flycatchers by Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 479 researchers in Mono (KNN et al.) adds to the handful of summer records here, identified either from vocal (see P. E. Lowther, no. 556 in Birds of North America series) or observational evidence {Field Notes 52: 500), that support the finding that E. occidentalis is the breeding species in low densities on the e. side of the Sierra and in the White Mts. A pair of Say’s Phoebes with young near Blackhawk provided the first nest record for Contra Costa since 1984, this apparently representing the north- ernmost nest site in the Coast Ranges (Malcolm Sproul). Vagrant Eastern Kingbirds were at Pt. Reyes N.S., Marin 12 Jul (DFx, JCP), lower Wilson Cr., Mono 15 Jul (Sue Prentice), and Shasta Valley W.A., Siskiyou 20 Jul (RE). The Region’s only nesting Easterns were at a nest at Lava Lakes Ranch, Siskiyou 17 Jun, and though the ads. were still present 1 Jul, the nest had disap- peared. (RE). A first-summer Scissor-tailed Flycatcher was at Big Sur R. mouth, Monterey 16 Jun (RC, ph. DR), and another spent the summer near Younger Lagoon 17 Jul-Sep {Santa Cruz’s 3rd; Brad Keitt, ph. JND, ph. LCh, m. ob.). A single food-toting Loggerhead Shrike was found 28 May just n. of Loyalton, Plumas/Sierra (JSL), and the first nesting for Sierra Valley was confirmed at the same spot 16 Jun, when fledglings were observed being fed (DS). Single male White-eyed Vireos were at Trinidad 10-30 Jun {Humboldt’s first; Kl, m. ob.) and Big Sur R. mouth, Monterey 11 Jun (tRF), bringing this spring’s total to an unprecedented 4. At least 3 vagrant Red-eyed Vireos were tallied: one 9 Jun near Bodie, Mono (KNN); a singing male 17 Jun at Big Sur R. mouth, Monterey (RE, SRv); another or the same banded there 8 Jul; and one at Samoa, Humboldt 23 Jun (KI). Cliff Swallows were found for the first time in 13 summers at Bennett Juniper, Tuolumne, where as many as 18 birds were noted 27-29 Jul (at 8400 ft; KJB). A titmouse thought to be an Oak Titmouse was at 6500 ft at Sardine L., Sierra 14 Jul (LCh). Though both species of titmouse can occa- sionally occur at such a high altitude, neither is expected in this part of the Region. A singing Winter Wren in suitable nesting habitat at Robinson Cr. 1 Jul was the first summer record for Mono (KNN). Golden-crowned Kinglets were confirmed nesting along Bodfish Cr. and Los Gatos Cr. 12-13 Jul, providing Santa Clara’s first nest records since the 1950s. They were also detected widely in the s. Santa Cruz Mountains of adjacent Santa Cruz (DLSu). A pair of Wrentits at Pacific Grove, Monterey 28 Jul was only a couple mi from the nearest suit- able nesting habitat, but this is noteworthy, as they are rarely detected away from known breeding stations (SFB). THRASHERS THROUGH WARBLERS A singing Gray Catbird that frequented a yard in the Killgore Hills, Shasta Valley 23-24 Jun (tRE) was a first for Siskiyou. There have been a smattering of prior late Jun and Jul coastal records, but this is the first mid-summer occurrence in the interior. Sage Thrashers at Glass Beach, Ft. Bragg, Mendocino 10 Jun (tJRW) and Ravenswood O.S.P., San Mateo 17 Jul (RSTh) were first summer records for those counties and completely unanticipated. A singing Blue-winged Warbler at Big Sur R. mouth 9 Jun (fDR) was the 3rd ever in Monterey and the first for spring; this becomes the 10th Regional record. A Tennessee Warbler was on F.l. on the odd dates of 9—12 Jul, but such mid-summer wandering far from breed- ing areas is known in the East {ftde SBT). A Virginia’s Warbler at Dechambeau Cr., O fk The Region was inundated with fJ^^Northern Parulas, a situation rem- iniscent of the large-scale vagrancy and oversummering of the species in 1992 (see Terrill et al., “The Changing Seasons,” A. B. 46: 1109-1111). For the 4th consecutive summer, up to 3 singing Northern Parulas on territory in Monterey (BSOL, DR) sug- gest that localized nesting continues there. Away from Monterey, a pair nested at Patricks Point S.P., Humboldt the pair was first seen 18 Jun, copulation was observed 27 Jun, the nest was located 28 Jun in a clump of Usnea out a lower limb of a Red Alder, and finally the pair was seen carry- ing food to cap a nest 7 Jul and then to 2- 3 fledglings 20 Jul (KI, DFx, JCP, GSL). The only previous nest in Humboldt was back in 1992, when 3 young were fledged from a nest on Elk Head, a few mi to the south. At L. Merced, S.F., a pair was pres- ent from 30 Jun— 31 Jul-t- (AR, Rich Ferrick). A singing male Northern Parula at La Honda, San Mateo 23 Apr was still there 6 Jun, while 3 others were in San Mateo or adjacent Santa Cruz (RSTh, DLSu et al.) this season, plus another S.F. bird at Mountain L. Park 4 Jun (HuC). Humboldt had 4 other singing males beyond the pair discussed above (KI, GSL, C. J. Ralph). The first summer record in Contra Costa was a male at Jewel L., Tilden Park 2 Jul (Brian Fitch). Two more were in Mono in Jun or Jul (KNN, CMcC). Nineteen Northern Parulas, plus Hedgings! Mono was carrying food to young in late Jun- Jul (Mike Green, KNN), confirming nesting for the first time in the Mono Basin since 1975. Likewise, a male Yellow Warbler carrying food at Jewel L., Tilden Park 9 Jun (Bob Brandriff et al.), and another near Pinole 16 Jun (Steve Hayashi, Lillian Fujii), were the first breeding records in Contra Costa in 50 years. Six Chestnut-sided Warblers were along the coast from 7-26 Jun, 2 in Monterey and 4 in Humboldt More unusual were a Cape May Warbler in Trinidad, Humboldt 17 Jun (Kl) and a singing male Black-throated Blue Warbler in Aurora Canyon, Mono 10 Jun (tMark Pollack). The first breeding confirma- tion of Audubon’s Warbler in S.F. was an ad. feeding a fledgling 28 Jun (ES, GGf), and the first confirmation in coastal Humboldt in many years were young in the cypress grove on n. spit at Humboldt Bay 8 Jul (DFx). Unusual summer vagrant warblers were a Palm at Big Sur R. mouth 11 Jun (RE), a Blackpoll on F.L 8-11 Jul (P.R.B.O.), and a singing male Bay- breasted along Mill Cr., Mono 10 Jun (KNN). More expected were the smattered of summer Black-and-white Warblers (3 coastal, 2 in Mono) and American Redstarts ( 1 1 coastal, 3 in Mono). Six Ovenbirds were more than a usual sum- mer, but most extraordinary were singing birds at Dedrick 9 Jun (TMcK, a first for Trinity) and in a Tulelake, Siskiyou yard 23 Jun (KvSp). Northern Waterthrushes at Salt R., Humboldt 30 Jun and at Robinson Cr., Mono 30 Jun were very late (DFx), and one banded at Carmen Valley 1 1 Jun (MMC) was the first for Sierra. A pair of Common Yellowthroat feeding young along lower Wilson Cr., Mono in Jul (Sue Prentice) were perhaps the first to nest in the Mono Basin, while one in Placer 28 Jun (BDW) was in an area where no nests are known. Continuing the spring incursion of south- eastern species were an amazing 9 Hooded Warblers: 4 at Big Sur R. mouth and another at Carmel R. mouth, Monterey 5-22 Jun (Jason Scott et al.), 2 in Santa Cruz (including a male in mid-Jul; Barbara 8c Kevin Monahan, DLSu), and singles in Sonoma, Humboldt, and Mono. A Yellow-breasted Chat nest with young 26 Jun along Piper Slough (SAG) was the first con- firmed breeding in Contra Costa in many years; one at Pike 28 May (JSL) may suggest they are more regular in Sierra than previously thought. TANAGERS THROUGH FINCHES A male Scarlet Tanager at Live Oak 27 Jun (tDLSu) and a female on F.L 17 Jun (fRusty Japuntich) were extraordinary; the former was the first for Santa Cruz. Both Black-chinned 480 North American Birds Middle Pacific Coast — Southern Pacific Coast and Grasshopper Sparrows were widespread this summer around the n. edges of their ranges in our Region. A White-throated Sparrow in a Bayside yard, Humboldt 24 Jun ( JCP) may have summered, as apparently did a Golden-crowned Sparrow in heavy molt at Coyote Pt., San Mateo 27 Jul-19 Aug (RSTh). At least 30 Rose-breasted Grosbeaks this season matched the record 30 birds of last summer. Most were in Jun and were probably late vagrants, but at least 6 lingered into Jul and must have been attempting to summer. All were in coastal or Bay Area counties except for a male in Mendocino N.F., Tehama 13 Jun (Doug Shaw). In contrast, the 9 Indigo Buntings seemed average, although a male near Kettleman City 7 June (JSe) was just the 2nd ever in Kings. A singing male Orchard Oriole at the n. spit at Humboldt Bay 21 Jun (KI) and a singing male Baltimore Oriole 30 May-2 Jun at Lanphere Dunes (PAH) were rare late spring vagrants in Humboldt. It seems as though we’ll never stop reporting the continued spread of Great tailed Grackle. News this summer included the first nesting for Santa Cruz (two pairs with young at Watsonville Slough 19 Jun; John Welch, Brian Voegtlen), a nest with 2 fledged young at Rooster Run Golf Course in Sonoma in Jul (DN, Rick Lebadeour, Alan Wight et al.), the first Mono Basin nest at Willow Springs on the s. shore of Mono L., Mono 9 Jun (Bartshe Miller), and a 2nd male joining the first at Tulelake, Siskiyou (DHpt, KvSp). Red Crossbills were widespread in Humboldt and discovered in Snow Mt. Wilderness, Lake in Jul (DvW, JRW). For yet another summer, Lawrence’s Goldfinches were widespread in the coast ranges and especially in interior Mendocino at the n. edge of their range (CEV, GEC et al.). CORRIGENDA Last fall’s Yellow-green Vireo at Orick, Humboldt was present 28 Sep rather than 28 Nov (KI). From the winter report: the American Tree Sparrow in Marin 17 Dec was at Kehoe Marsh rather than McClures Beach (LLu, CLu), and the “Hooded Warbler” report- ed 13 Jan in Sonoma was actually a Hooded Oriole. We thank David Fix, Les Lieurance, Benjamin D. Parmeter, and Ruth Rudesill for these corrections. Cited observers (county coordinators in boldface): Dick Ashford, Stephen F. Bailey, Jim Booker, William G. Bousman (Santa Clara), Penelope K. Bowen (Alpine & Calaveras), Kenneth J. Brunges (Tuolumne), Rita Carratello, George E. Chaniot, Les Chibana, Luke Cole (Kings), Hugh Cotter (S.F. city), Jeff N. Davis, Bruce E. Deuel (n. C.V. counties), Mark W. Eaton, Ray Ekstrom (Siskiyou), Elias Elias, David Fix (Humboldt), Rick Fournier, James H. Gain (Stanislaus), Doug E. George, Steven A. Glover (Contra Costa), George Griffeth, Philip E. Gordon, Janet T. Hanson, Dave Haupt, Pablo A. Herrera, Alan S. Hopkins, John E. Hunter (Trinity), Ken Irwin, Robert J. Keiffer (Mendocino), Robin L.C. Leong (Napa & Solano), Gary S. Lester, Cindy Lieurance, Les Lieurance, John S. Luther, Michael J. Mammoser, Timothy D. Manolis (Sacramento & Yolo), Peter J. Metropulos (San Mateo & Mono), Sean McAllister, Mac McCormick (Sierra & Plumas), Chris McCreedy, Tristan McKee, Bryan M. Mori, Dan Nelson, Kristie N. Nelson, Ed Pandolfino (Placer), Jim 8c Debby Parker, Benjamin D. Parmeter, Point Reyes Bird Observatory, Jude C. Power (Humboldt), Peter Pyle (F.I.), Robert W. Reiling, Robert J. Richmond (Alameda), Don Roberson (Monterey), Steve Rovell, Ruth A. Rudesill (Sonoma), Andrew Rush, Jeff Seay, Debra L. Shearwater, David Shuford, Dan Singer, John Sorensen, Kevin Spencer, Rich Stallcup, John C. Sterling, David L. Suddjian (DLSu; Santa Cruz), Emile Strauss, Scott B. Terrill, Ronald S. Thorn, Dorothy Tobkin, Amber N. Transon, Chuck E. Vaughn, Kent Van Vuren (Merced & San Benito), Jerry R. White (Lake), Brian D. Williams (Nevada), Dave Woodward, Frank Vanslager, Ann Verdi, Bob 8c Carol Yutzy (Shasta). Many more observers were not specif- ically cited; all are appreciated. /J Southern Pacific Coast Guy McCaskie 954 Grove Avenue Imperial Beach, California 91932 (guymcc@pacbell.net) Kimball L. Garrett Natural History Museum ot Los Angeles County 900 Exposition Boulevard Los Angeles, California 90007 (kgarrett@nhm.org) Southern California experienced a typical warm and dry summer. Encouraging num- bers of the Endangered Western Yellow-billed Cuckoos (C. a. occidentalis), and Least Bell’s Vireos ( V. b. pusillus) were reported, but popula- tions of Southwestern Willow Flycatchers (E. t. extimus) remained precariously small. Reports of Brown-crested Flycatchers suggest that this species is continuing to expand its range west- ward. An interesting variety of wood-warblers Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 481 A Brown Thrasher at Cabrillo National Monument at the southern tip of Point Loma in San Diego on 9 August evidently spent most of the summer at this location. Photograph by Leroy M. Dorman. and other migrants from eastern North American persisted well into June. Among seabirds, Red-billed Tropicbirds were almost common off San Clemente Island. Breeding sea- son field work for the San Diego County Bird Atlas was completed this summer; this county — which boasts the highest county bird species total in the United States — joins Los Angeles, San Luis Obispo, and Orange Counties in having completed these important projects, though to date, only the Orange County atlas has been published. Abbreviations: C.L. (China Lake Naval Air Weapons Station, extreme ne. Kern County); E. A.F.B. (Edwards Air Force Base, se. Kern); F. C.R. (Furnace Creek Ranch, Death Valley National Monument, Inyo); G.H.P. (Galileo Hill Park in extreme e. Kern); N.E.S.S. (n. end of the Salton Sea, Riverside); S.C.R.E. (Santa Clara River Estuary near Ventura, Ventura); S.E.S.S. (s. end of the Salton Sea, Imperial); S.F.K.R.P. (South Fork Kern R. Preserve near Weldon, Kern); V.C.G.P. (Ventura County Game Preserve near Pt. Mugu Naval Air Station, Ventura). Because virtually all rarities in s. California are seen by many observers, only the observer! s) initially finding and identifying the bird are included. Documentation for species on the California Bird Records Committee (C.B.R.C.) review list is forwarded to the C.B.R.C. Secretary and archived at the Western Foundation for Vertebrate Zoology in Camarillo. LOONS THROUGH HAWKS An alternate-plumaged Pacific Loon at N.E.S.S. 7 Jul (BLS) was inland and exceptionally late if a migrant. An alternate-plumaged Horned Grebe inland at S.E.S.S. 3 Jun (GMcC) was a late spring migrant. A Laysan Albatross seen from China Pt. on San Clemente 1. 3 Jul (BLS) was remarkably close to land and in an area where previously unrecord- ed. A Dark-rumped Petrel was well seen at 34° 20’ N, 122° 69’ W (about 100 mi off Pt. Conception, Santa Barbara) 25 Jul (RS). A Flesh- footed Shearwater off Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo 1 Jul (GPS) was unexpected considering the time of the year. A moribund Leach’s Petrel on San Clemente 1. 13 Jul (BLS) suggests the pos- sibility of nesting on the island. Red-billed Tropicbirds were present off China Pt. on San Clemente 1. 2 Jul-t- (BLS) with a remarkable 15-20 on 29 Jul (BLS), the largest number ever reported in California, and 3 more were seen far off Ventura 19-26 Jul (RS). The only Magnificent Frigatebirds reported were one near Del Mar, San Diego 24 Jun (TM) and anoth- er over Carlsbad, San Diego 4 Jul (SW). An ad. Little Blue Heron in the Prado Basin, Riverside 23 Apr-20 Jun (JEP) was the only one reported away from coastal San Diego. An imm. Tricolored Heron was inland at S.E.S.S. 22 Jul (SSo), where considered casual. An imm. Reddish Egret at N.E.S.S. 7 Jul (GMcC), another near Salton City 1 Aug (GMcC), an ad. at S.E.S.S. 28 Jul- 19 Aug (KZK), and an imm. there 17 Aug-t- (KZK) made a remarkable count for the Salton Sea; an imm. in Goleta 14 Jul+ ( JRS) is the first for Santa Barbara. A Surf Scoter at N.E.S.S. 1 Jul (GMcC) and a White-winged Scoter at S.E.S.S. 13-31 Jul (KCM, KZK) were both evi- dently summering locally. A juv. Bald Eagle at S.E.S.S. 14 Jul (GMcC) was unprecedented, the closest known nesting locali- ties being in c. Arizona. A Cooper’s Hawk in Brawley 1 Jul (GMcC) provides the first summer record for Imperial. An imm. Northern Goshawk near Pine Mt., Ventura 13 Jun (DL) suggests nest- ing in that area. A pair of Harris’s Hawks contin- ued at Boulevard, San Diego throughout the peri- od (PU). The imm. Zone-tailed Hawk near El Centro, Imperial through 3 May returned 12 Jul+ (KZK). RAILS THROUGH ALCIDS A pair of Clapper Rails along with a lone female at Carpinteria 19 Apr (DZ) were the only ones known present in Santa Barbara. A Sora’s nest containing three eggs and a freshly- hatched chick near Lompoc, Santa Barbara 4 May (PWC) and a pair with 2 juvs. along the Mojave R. near Victorville, San Bernardino 23 Jun (SJM) are of note, as there are very few recent records for breeding in s. California. Two remarkably early golden-plovers in Irvine, Orange 4 Jul (LO) were thought to be Pacifies. Two American x Black Oystercatcher hybrids were on Anacapa 1. 3 Jun (DVP), and another was near Prisoner’s Harbor on Santa Cruz 1. 9 Jun (DMH). A Solitary Sandpiper near Cartago, Inyo 22 Jul (JW) and another in San Diego 24 Jul (BMu) were the earliest this fall. A Red Knot near Lancaster, Los Angeles 29 Jul (MSanM) was the only one found inland away from the Salton Sea. Single Semipalmated Sandpipers at C.L. 12 Jul (JSt) and S.C.R.E. 29 Jul (DP) and a Pectoral Sandpiper near Santa Maria, Santa Barbara 19 Jul (JCM) were the only ones reported. An alternate-plumaged Curlew Sandpiper at E.A.F.B. 24 Jul (MSanM) was the first for Kern. An ad. Stilt Sandpiper in Irvine 24-26 Jul (AO) and another at V.C.G.P. 26 Jul (OA) were on the coast, where rare. A Red Phalarope at S.E.S.S. 29 Jul (C-TL) was inland, where rare. Up to five pairs of Laughing Gulls nested at S.E.S.S. (KCM); up to 3 birds in Blythe, Riverside 24-29 Jun (RH) coincided with a post-breeding influx of these birds into the Salton Sea from the Gulf of California, and one at San Clemente 1. 3 Jun (BLS) was on the coast, where rare. An ad. Franklin’s Gull at S.E.S.S. 3 Jun (GMcC) was believed to be a late spring migrant, but up to 2 at N.E.S.S. 1-12 Jul (GMcC, C-TL) were proba- bly summering locally. An ad. Heermann’s Gull at S.E.S.S. 7-19 Jul (GMcC, KZK), another in Salton City 1-2 Aug (GMcC, KZK), an imm. at N.E.S.S. 11 Jul (C-TL), and a juv. there 25 Jul (CMcG) was an average number for the Salton Sea in summer. An ad. Sabine’s Gull at N.E.S.S. 1 Jul (GMcC) is the 7th to be found on the Salton Sea in summer. A Royal Tern at N.E.S.S. 23 Jun- 1 Jul (GMcC) is only the 4th to be found inland 482 North A m e r i c n Birds Southern Pacific Coast in California. An Elegant Tern — a species now almost annual at the Salton Sea — ^was near Salton City 12 Jun (BMi), 2 ads. were there 1 Aug (GMcC), up to 2 ads. and an imm. were there 1- 8 Aug (GMcC, KZK), and an ad. was at S.E.S.S. 16 Jul (KCM). There were 8 reports of Least Terns at the Salton Sea this summer, including a juv. accompanying an ad. at S.E.S.S. 14 Jul (GMcC). Up to 3 Black Skimmers in the Prado Basin 21 Jun-3 1 Jul ( JEP, DSP) were in an area that might suggest an overland route from the Salton Sea (where 400+ pairs nested; KCM) to the coast. An alternate-plumaged Pigeon Guillemot at China Pt. on San Clemente I. 2 Jul (BLS) was unusually far south. DOVES THROUGH FLYCATCHERS A pair of Eurasian Collared-Doves in Ridgecrest, Kern mid-May+ was building a nest in Jun (LL). A White-winged Dove in Bishop, Inyo 27 Jun (JZ) was unusually far n., and one in Baldwin Hills, Los Angeles 1 Jul (EB) was the only one reported on the coast. Inca Doves continue to expand their range, with one remaining as far n. as Ridgecrest to 16 Jun (JSt) and calling birds along the coast in San Diego 1-9 Jun (PU) and 20 Jul (DA), and Encinitas, San Diego 22 Jul (L8cCT). Single Yellow-billed Cuckoos on San Clemente I. 18 Jun (CWB), Moreno Valley, Riverside 26 Jun (MB), G.H.P. 23 Jun (TEW), and in Sand Canyon, Kern 9 Jun (DLaB) were migrants away from suitable nesting habitat; sin- gle birds near Imperial Beach, San Diego 28 Jun (PH), in the San Felipe Valley, San Diego 6—12 Jul (TG, PJ), Irvine 5 Jul (LDT), and near Bishop 4 Jun ( J8cDP) were in or near suitable nesting habi- tat, and 14-17 pairs were at S.F.K.R.P. through- out the period (BB). Territorial Whip-poor-wills were present near Big Bear City in the San Bernardino Mts. 22-23 May (REW); nesting has yet to be confirmed in California. A Chimney Swift over the Baldwin Hills 2 Jun (RBa), 2 over downtown Los Angeles 24 Jun (TM), and anoth- er in Irwindale 13 Jul (C-TL) were in areas of Los Angeles where small numbers are present every summer. A Chaetura in Riverside 4 Jun (AH), at a time of the year when Chimney Swift is more expected, was believed to be a Vaux’s Swift. A Downy Woodpecker at G.H.P. 19 Jul (KSG) was far from the nearest known nesting locality. In their only stronghold w. of the Colorado River, Willow Flycatchers of the Endangered sub- species extimus declined at S.F.K.R.P, with 11 nesting pairs and 9 additional males present (MJW); additional single territories were noted in Fillmore, Ventura (JG), Mission Viejo, Orange, (PHB), and at Big Bear L., San Bernardino (SJM). A pair of Gray Flycatchers at a nest n. of Big Pines, Los Angeles 24 Jun (KLG) represented one of the few confirmed nestings for the San Gabriel Mts. A Western (presumed Pacific-slope) Flycatcher at G.H.P. 20 Jul (KSG) was the earliest fall migrant for e. Kern. Say’s Phoebes away from their usual summer range in the arid interior were in Goleta (ad. with three juvs., 14 Jul; GBW) and Santa Maria (2 ads., 16 Jul; JMC). A juv. at Bolsa Chica 14 Jun (LRH) suggests breeding at that coastal locality as well. Brown-crested Flycatchers are increasing at the nw. edge of their breeding range, with 9 pairs along the Mojave R. near Victorville, San Bernardino 23 Jun (SJM), and a minimum of 8 territories (and likely 10- 15) in and near S.F.K.R.P. through the period (BB) Single birds in Indian Wells Canyon 18 Jun and Sand Canyon 26 Jun (DLaB) were the first for e. Kern, and additional birds were in Borrego Springs and San Felipe Ck., e. San Diego in Jul (BMu). Two Eastern Kingbirds were at S.F.K.R.P. 16 Jun (MF), and a presumed fall vagrant was on San Clemente 1. 27 Jul (BLS). VIREOS THROUGH WOOD-WARBLERS Least Bell’s Vireos continue to recover in the Region, with a remarkable 430+ territories in the Prado Basin, San Bernardino/Riverside (DSP, JEP); a minimum of 56 territories in Orange was the highest count there in recent years (DRW), and six pairs were counted along the Mojave R. near Victorville on 23 June (SJM). Documentation of a pair of Warbling Vireos suc- cessfully raising young in an urban residential area in Los Angeles 29 Jul (RBa) offers hope for this declining riparian species. In addition to those noted in the spring report. Red-eyed Vireos were found near Santa Barbara 13-24 Jun (G&JH), Torrance, Los Angeles 12 Jun (DMH), near Pasadena, Los Angeles 4 Jul (KLG), in the Prado Basin 8 Jul (DSP), at G.H.P. 7-8 Jun and 15 Jun (KSG), and at S.F.K.R.P. 13 Jun (2; JSt, BW). A Northern Rough-winged Swallow at 10,300 ft in Rock Creek Canyon, Inyo 29 Jul ( JLD) was at an exceptionally high altitude. An American Dipper at Gaviota, Santa Barbara 19 Jun (JJH) was away from the normal summering range, and an ad. with a fledgling on Pauma Ck. 7 Jun (PU) were among the few ever documented nest- ing in San Diego. A California Gnatcatcher along the lower Arroyo Seco in Pasadena, Los Angeles 21 Jun (DSC) was about 8 mi from the nearest known population. Western Bluebirds fledged young in Mojave on 23 Jun (TEW), the first suc- cessful nesting in e. Kern. Swainson’s Thrushes were thought to be nesting on the s. coast of Santa Barbara, where rare, in Goleta in early Jul (DS); a singing bird through the period in Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area in the Los Angeles basin was well away from known breed- ing localities (RBa). Wrentits were encountered in two locations near Lone Pine, Inyo 12-31 Jul (A&LK), at the ne. edge of the species’s range. The Gray Catbird reported in the spring report at Pt. Loma, San Diego was present until 2 Jun (ME). A Brown Thrasher evidently summered at Pt. Loma, being seen 24 Jul (VC) to at least 9 Aug (LMD). A juv. LeConte’s Thrasher near Independence, Inyo 12-31 Jul (A&LK) was at the n. edge of the species’s range. Vagrant wood-warblers continued to be recorded well into Jun; those that follow were not included in the spring regional report. A Golden- winged Warbler, casual in spring, was at G.H.P. 13 Jun (KHL, KSG). Northern Parulas were found in Santa Barbara 13-14 Jun (G&JH), near Buellton, Santa Barbara 13 Jun (LRB, KA), near Pasadena 2 Jun-4 Jul (TR, KLG), and in the inte- rior at G.H.P. 7 Jun (RN) and S.F.K.R.P. 15-16 Jun (BB). A Chestnut-sided Warbler was in Ridgecrest 12 Jun (JSe), and Magnolias were noted at Pt. Loma 6 Jun (REW) and G.H.P. 7 Jun (KSG). Defying explanation was a Blackpoll Warbler that came aboard a research vessel 65 mi w. of Pt. Conception, Santa Barbara 23 Jul (RS). Late spring Black-and-white Warblers were at Pt. Loma 19-21 Jun (VC), G.H.P. 6-13 Jun (KSG), S.F.K.R.P. 24-29 Jun (SSc), and in montane for- est in the s. Santa Rosa Mtns., San Diego 17 Jun (RT). Three American Redstarts were found in the Region 6-12 Jun: one at S.F.K.R.P. 21 Jul (RBe) was halfway between the latest spring and earliest fall records for Kern. A Prothonotary Warbler s. of Big Bear L. 3 Jul (BL) was at a sur- prising locality. Other late spring vagrants included Ovenbirds at G.H.P. 6 Jun (KSG) and in Santa Barbara 11-24 Jun (KA) and Kentucky Warblers at Bishop 4 Jun (KN), G.H.P. 6 Jun (KSG), and Butterbredt Spring, Kern 13 Jun (TG). After a strong showing in May, additional Hooded Warblers were on Pt. Loma 7 Jun (BMu) and at Arroyo Grande, San Luis Obispo, where a singing male summered 30 )un+ (CHI). Among w. breeding species. Yellow Warblers and Common Yellowthroats have benefited greatly from cowbird trapping programs in recent years, reflected, for example in counts of 227 and 678 individuals, respectively, at S.F.K.R.P. 7 Jul (BB). A Black-throated Gray Warbler in El Centro 3 Jul+ (KZK) was the first to summer in the Salton Sea region, and a Hermit Warbler in Santa Barbara 29 Jul (MAH) was an early fall migrant. Some 25 pairs of Yellow-breasted Chats were censused along the Mojave R. near Victorville 23 Jun (SJM); a singing male until at least 14 Jun at San Simeon S. P. (GPS) was in coastal San Luis Obispo, where nesting has not been recorded. TANAGERS THROUGH FINCHES Summer Tanagers were widely recorded, including at six coastal localities well away from breeding Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 483 areas. A Western Tanager at S.E.S.S. 14 Jul (PAG, GMcC) was the earliest fall record for the Salton Sea region. Black-chinned Sparrows are extreme- ly rare in the Region away from their breeding grounds, so one at Pt. Loma 5 Jun (REW) was a surprise. Cassin’s Sparrows are casual in California, and the 3 recorded this Jun were the most since the influx of 1978; one ne. of San Juan Capistrano 1-2 Jun (DRW, JEP) was the 2nd for Orange, and singing birds at Castaic L. 8 Jun (BED) and S.F.K.R.P. 10-13 Jun (BB) were the first recorded in Los Angeles and Kern, respective- ly. Breeding of Grasshopper Sparrow on San Clemente I. was confirmed when dependent young were seen 27 Jun (BLS). A Dark-eyed (Oregon) Junco in Huntington Beach, Orange i- 29 Jun (JEP) was at an unusual summer locality. In addition to those mentioned in the spring report, 10 Rose-breasted Grosbeaks (divided evenly between coastal and interior counties) were found 5 Jun-26 Jul. At least 14 Indigo Buntings were seen during the period, and the first nesting for Orange was confirmed in Huntington Beach when recently fledged young were seen 19 Aug (LO, COJ). An early migrant Lazuli Bunting was in Rovana, Inyo 25 Jun ( JLD). Bobolinks were at F.C.R. 6 Jun (JT) and Prado Basin 18 Jun (JEP). The tale of the Great-tailed Crackle continues, with nesting confirmed dur- ing the period at Morro Bay (TME) and Oso Flaco Lake, San Luis Obispo (BS). Scarce along the coast, a fall migrant Scott’s Oriole was on the Palos Verdes Peninsula, Los Angeles 27 Jul (C-TL). The Black-backed Oriole near Imperial Beach, San Diego was last documented on 3 Jul (SFB), although it was reported by an unknown observ- er on 4 Jul. Red Crossbills were feeding young in Ridgecrest 3 Jun, establishing the 3rd nesting for e. Kern (JSe). CORRiGENDUIVI The Yellow-billed Cuckoo in California City (N. A. B. 54: 423) should have been credited to MJSanM. ADDENDUM Blue- winged Warblers were at G.H.P. 18 May (Scott B. Terrill) and California City 21 May (Jon Fisher). Cited observers (county coordinators in bold- face): Kevin Aanerud, Douglas Allen, Onik Arian, Stephen F. Bailey, Larry R. Ballard, Bob Barnes, Richard Barth (RBa), Ron Beck (RBe), Peter H. Bloom, Eric Brooks, Mike Bumgardner, Christopher W. Burney, Jaime M. Chavez, Paul W. Collins, David M. Compton {Santa Barbara), Virginia Conway, Daniel S. Cooper, Brian E. Daniels, Don Desjardin, Leroy M. Dorman, Jon L. Dunn, Tom M. EdeU {San Luis Obispo), Leo Edson, ILichard A. Erickson, Jeremy Ertl, Michael Evans {San Diego), Mike Feighner, Terri Gallion, Kimball L. Garrett (Los Angeles), Peter A. Ginsburg, Karen S. Gilbert, Jim Greaves, Kay Green, Robert A. Hamilton, Robert W. Hansen, George and Joan Hardie (G&JH), Sandee Harvill, Loren R. Hays, D. Mitchell Heindel, Cher Hollingsworth (CHI), J. J. Hollister, Chris Howard for Tom & Jo Heindel {Inyo), Roger Higson, Brad K. Hines, Mark A. Holmgren, Pierre Howard, Andrew Howe, Curtis O. Johnson, Paul Jorgensen, Andrew and Leak Kirk (A&LK), Kenneth Z. Kurland, Denise LaBerteaux, Kevin Larson, Lisa Lavelle, Brian Leatherman, Cin-Ty Lee, Kelli Heindel Levinson, Dee Lyon, Guy McCaskie {Imperial), Chet McGaugh, Thomas Miko, Bob Miller (BMi), Kathy C. Molina, Tim Moss, Brennan Mulrooney (BMu), Stephen J. Myers, Kristie Nelson, Richard Norton, Leo Ohtsuki, Akira Okula, Jim and Debby Parker (J & DP), Dharm S. Pellegrini, Dave Pereksta, James E. Pike, Jonathan H. Plissner, David Vander Pluym, Thomas Rahn, James S. Royer, Michael San Miguel, Michael J. San Miguel, Sylvia Schmitt (SSc), Brad K. Schram, Don Schroeder, Joyce Seibold (JSe), Ryan Shaw, Brad Sillasen, Bob Smith (BSm), Gregory P. Smith, Steve Sosensky (SSo), Susan Steele (SSt), John Sterling (JSt), John R. Storrer, Brian L. Sullivan, Lee and Claudia Taylor (L 8c CT), Robert Theriault, John Tiffany, Larry D. Tripp, Philip Unitt, Stanley Walens, Richard E. Webster, Walter Wehtje {Ventura), Grant B. Weyburne, Mary J. Whitfield, Judy Wickman, Bud Widdowson, Douglas R. Willick {Orange), John C. Wilson {Kern), Thomas E. Wurster, Jerry Zatorski, Dick Zembal. An additional 25-i- observers who could not be individually acknowledged submitted reports this season; they have our thanks. /) Baja California Peninsula Ensenada , , Tijuana / ^JJexicali Islas — f 'ryr Toclos'\lk%. ^c^erro Prieto Santos""^^^ ^^L^Leyes de Hetorma lower Rioy^y ,(San Felipe Santo Tomas O San i Maneadero P/a/n 'SQUintln El Islas San Benitos^ Isla Cedros Li Vizcaino Peninsula ^atavina gg/j/a (jg Los Angeles BAJA CALIFORNIA Guefflsrcr^ BAJA Nearo \CAUFORNIA ^ SUR San Jose del Cabo Robert A. Hamilton 34 Rivo Alto Canal Long Beach, California 90803 (robb.hamilton@gte.net) Richard A. Erickson LSA Associates One Park Plaza, Suite 500 Irvine, California 92614 (richard.erickson@lsa-assoc.com) Eduardo Palacios Ecologia, Centro de Investigacion Cientifica y Educacion Superior de Ensenada Km 107 Carr. Tijuana-Ensenada 22860 Ensenada Baja California, Mexico (U.S. mailing address: P.O. Box 434844 San Diego, California 92143-4844) (epalacio@cicese.mx) 484 North American Birds Southern Pacific Coast — Baja California Peninsula An exciting summer season saw Black Rails resurrected from presumed extirpation on the Rio San Telmo, Mexico’s first nesting Gadwalls, and Black-legged Kittiwakes remain- ing in the tropics into July. Enticing views were had of a rail and some swallows well outside their known ranges, hopefully inspiring further exploration. The geothermal ponds at Cerro Prieto continued to support important popula- tions of nesting terns and waders, and a couple of unseasonal passerine vagrants added spice. We received reports from only the northern quarter and southern tip of the peninsula. Abbreviations: S.S.P.M. (Sierra San Pedro Martir); U.A.B.C. (Universidad Autonoma de Baja California at Ensenada). LOONS THROUGH SKIMMERS All three regularly occurring loon species were recorded this summer, with 2 Red-throateds and 35 Pacifies at Bahia de San Quintln 14 Jun (REW; one Pacific still present 19 Jul — ^MSM et al.) and one to 6 Commons at Rosarito 17 Jul (CF). Apparently oversummering grebes at Bahia de San Quintln 14 Jun included 15 Eared, 105 Westerns, and 15 Clark’s (REW). Another Eared was at Estero Punta Banda 20 Jul (MSM et al). Nesting herons at the Cerro Prieto geother- mal ponds 19 May included Creat Blue Heron ( 1 1-f- nests, most with large young), Creat Egret (103+ nests, most with small young), and Snowy Egret (65+ nests, no young visible) (KLC, KCM). A total of 4 Reddish Egrets at Bahia de San Quintln 14 Jun- 19 Jul (REW, RAH et al.), 2 at Estero Punta Banda 18—20 Jul (TEW), 2 Cattle Egrets at Lagunita El Cipres 17 Jul (DSC et al.), and up to 5 White-faced Ibis at Lagunita El Cipres 17-20 Jul (RAH et al.) were noteworthy at this season. At one of the Brant’s primary wintering sites, Bahia de San Quintln, 18 were still present 14 Jun (REW), with 6 there 19 Jul (MSM et al.). Gadwall were found nesting in Mexico for the first time this season. On a reservoir just n. of Leyes de Reforma 25 May, two pairs were pres- ent, and a dumped egg was collected (RAE; *U.A.B.C.). Another one to 2 Gadwall broods were at Lagunita El Cipres 3 Jun-17 Jul (ph. SGG; RAH et al.). DetaOs will be published else- where. A female Blue-winged Teal at Lagunita El Cipres 17 Jul (RAH et al.) and a female Cinnamon Teal below the Tropic of Cancer at Estero San Jose 7 Jul (AJ) were unexpected. Also at Estero San Jose, up to 10 Redheads were seen 1-7 Jul (AJ). Redheads nested at Lagunita El Cipres, with at least one brood produced 24 May-17 Jul (SNGH et al.). The only previously documented nesting record for the peninsula was from the Rio del Rosario estuary in Sep 1991 (mA.B.C.). The Bahia de San Quintln estuary was home to numerous aseasonal shorebirds 14 Jun: 60 Black-bellied Plovers, 1 1 Semipalmated Plovers, 55 Greater Yellowlegs, 175 Willets, 22 Whimbrels, 175 Long-billed Curlews, 450 Marbled Godwits, 4 Ruddy Turnstones, one Black Turnstone, 26 Sanderlings, 55 Western Sandpipers, and 225 Short-billed Dowitchers; a Wilson’s Phalarope was assumed to be an early migrant (REW). More surprising were 2 On 14 Jun, Richard Webster redis- covered a Black Rail population long assumed extirpated on the Rio San Telmo. Grinnell reported these birds in 1928 (A distributional summation of the ornithology of Lower California. University of California Publications in Zoology 32: 1-300), but by 1987 WObur {Birds of Baja California, University of California Press, Berkeley) judged the habitat to be lacking. (Excepting 2-3 at Bahia de San Quintln in Feb 1991 [Euphonia 1: 19-21], the species has been unrecorded in the Region since Grinnell’s summary.) The river may have been poorly vegetated 14 years ago, but it now supports an extensive freshwater marsh dominated by species of Scirpus, Juncus, Typha, Salicornia, Anemopsis, and Distichlis, mixed with willows and tamarisk, from near Hwy. 1 to approxi- mately 3.4 mi upstream. Qn 17 Jul, Dan Cooper, Mike San Miguel, and RAH stopped at Webster’s location armed with a tape of Black Rail vocalizations, eliciting several “grrr” calls from a single bird. On 19 Jul, at least 5 birds responded to tape in the river seg- ment 1.7 to 3.4 mi inland from Hwy. 1. Most growled, but one gave the “kee-kee- do” vocalization. We also heard at least one Virginia Rail, and RAH may have glimpsed a Clapper Rail (a species not known from inland locations on the coastal slope; confirmation required). Black Rails are not known to breed else- where in Baja California, and an inland population of Clapper Rails would be equally (if not more) remarkable, so fur- ther spring/summer investigation of the Rio San Telmo is encouraged. Naturally, restraint with the use of tapes — ^as well as common courtesy (and common sense) in exploring this semi- remote area — ^are mandatory. Wandering Tattlers at Bahia Chileno, e. of Cabo San Lucas 7 Jul (AJ). A California Gull far s. at Bahia Chileno, e. of Cabo San Lucas 2 Jul (AJ) and different Glaucous-winged Gulls at Bahia de San Quintin 14 Jun (REW) 8c 19 Jul (MSM et al.) were over- shadowed by up to 7 imm. Black-legged Kittiwakes near San Jose del Cabo 4-8 Jul (ph. AJ). These birds followed a winter when excep- tional numbers of this species moved far s., but tropical sightings at this season may be unprecedented. A visit to the important nesting colony at the Cerro Prieto geothermal ponds on 19 May revealed 305 ad. Gull-billed Terns, with 191 nests counted and no young visible yet, 24 ad. Forster’s Terns with 6+ nests, and 128 Black Skimmers with 48 nests; no Laughing Gulls or Caspian Terns were nesting at the time (KLG, KCM). At Bahia de San Quintin, 7 Common Terns were already present on 19 Jul (RAH et al). DOVES THROUGH BLACKBIRDS Ruddy Ground-Doves are now at least tenuous- ly established in the s. Cape District, with a new high count of 10 at Estero San Jose 7 Jul (AJ). The Calliope Hummingbird is apparently one of the rarest summer residents of the S.S.P.M., but nesting is unconfirmed; a male was in the upper La Tassajera drainage 16 Jun (REW). The peninsula’s first confirmed summer Tropical Kingbird record was of one at Estero San Jose 7 Jul (AJ). A 15 Jun hike along the e. rim of the S.S.P.M. at 2500-2700 m yielded five Dusky Flycatcher territories (6 birds), four Warbling Vireo territories (4 birds), a silent Red-breasted Nuthatch (first Regional summer record), three Hermit Thrush territories (4 birds), and 5 Yellow-rumped Warblers, including a fle4gling (REW). The tip of the Baja California Peninsula is a natural concentration point for migrating swallows. Present in the vicinity of San Jose del Cabo 1-8 Jul were a Purple Martin, up to 2 Violet-green Swallows, up to 25 Northern Rough-winged Swallows, one or 2 early Barn Swallows 7-8 Jul, and the Petrochelidon dis- cussed below. Marsh Wrens, presumably representing the newly described subspecies clarkae {Proceedings of the San Diego Society of Natural History 31, 1996), have recently been found summering at Lagunita El Cipres, but nesting remains uncon- firmed; up to 10 were there 17 Jul (MSM et al.). Four ad. and 9 juv. Orange-crowned Warblers at 1700-2500 m on the w. slope of the S.S.P.M. 14-17 Jun were considered likely post-breeding migrants or dispersants that bred elsewhere (REW); nesting is not documented in this range. Two singing male Western Tanagers were on the w. slope of the S.S.P.M. 17 Jun, at 1700 Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 485 and 2000 m. One appeared to be on territory, the other prospecting. Two birds at 1770 m on 18 Jul (MSM) may have been early migrants; nesting remains undocumented on the penin- sula. A female Summer Tanager at El Descanso 17 Jul (RAH, DSC) was unexpected. Two White-collared Seedeaters at Estero San Jose 7 July (AJ) were thought to be imm. males of one of the West Mexican forms. These birds, or their parents, may have been seen on 8 Apr, when 3 White-collared Seedeaters were report- ed from the same area (PP). We believe that these reports likely involve escapees. A 16 Jun walk along the w. rim of the S.S.P.M. at 2400- 2600 m produced record counts of Green- tailed Towhees (7 territories, 8 birds) and Fox Sparrows (18 territories, 25 birds including 2 juvs.; REW). On 20 Jul, a female Rose-breasted Grosbeak was consorting with a male Black- headed on the lower Rio Santo Tomas, but no young were seen (tRAH et al). Contributors: Daniel S. Cooper, Richard A. Erickson, Gary Friedly, Kimball L. Garrett, Salvador Gonzalez-Guzman, Robert A. Hamilton, Steve N. G. Howell, Alvaro Jaramillo, Kathy C. Molina, Mike San Miguel, Philip Palmer, Richard E. Webster, Thomas E. Wurster. ^ II Among 100-1- Cliff Swallows at San Jose del Cabo 5-8 Jul were several possible wF^Cave Swallows (AJ). Jaramillo writes: “Almost every Cliff Swallow had a rufous forehead, typical of the largely Mexican race swainsoni {=melanogaster) rather than the white-fronted birds from farther north {pyrrhonota/tachina) . Rump color varied from pale buff to a darker cinnamon. On ads., the dark throat was obvious. Views of the pre- sumed Cave Swallows were always somewhat distant, and none of the birds was seen perched. These rufous-fronted birds had entirely cinnamon throats and faces, which set off a dark cap. Rump color was dark. Two appeared to be in wing molt.” “One concern is that some juv. Cliff Swallows may show cinnamon throats with almost no dark, superficially resembling Cave Swallows. I was unable to determine if the auric- ulars of the presumed Cave Swallows were cinnamon or dark. Cliff Swallows in Juvenal plumage are extremely variable, with most but not all showing white speckling on the face or throat. Some are cinnamon on the throat, but they usually show some dark on the lower throat. The variation in swainsoni has not been detailed, particularly with respect to separation from Cave Swallows, so conservative field identification is necessary. The dark rumps of these birds represent a potential problem, as Caribbean Cave Swallows are dark-rumped, whereas Mexican birds are pale-rumped. However, the fact that 2 birds appeared to be in wing molt may bode well for their identification as Cave Swallows; that species typically molts on the breeding grounds, while Cliff Swallows molt on the win- tering grounds and much later in the season.” “Given the problems discussed above, it is best to consider these as tantalizing obser- vations that need confirmation. Although the latest A. O. U. Check-list attributed the Cave Swallow to Baja California, Howell et al. {Annotated checklist of the birds of Baja California and Baja California Sur, Monographs in Field Ornithol., in press.) were unable to find any records. Observers are encouraged to look carefully at swallows in this area in the future.” Mexico Hector Gomez de Silva Xola314-E 03100 Mexico, D. F. (hgomez@miranda.ecologia.unam.mx) This period was very rainy in most of the country. Significant contributions to this column continue to include records of birds outside their distributions mapped in Howell and Webb (1995), as well as some early and oversummering migrants, but the warm months of June and July saw overall relatively little birding activity. Because the distribution of both resident and transient species in Mexico is still so incompletely known, the records in this report carry comparatively little commentary on their relative rarity — ^indeed, the first three species boldfaced below are undoubtedly regular visitors to the area but were nevertheless first local records! 486 North American Birds Mexico NORTHERN MEXICO A pelagic trip 20 Jul (0730-1300) in Mexican waters in the w. Gulf of Mexico — conducted as part of the Brownsville International Birding Festival — produced 4 Cory’s Shearwaters, 18 Band-rumped Storm-Petrels, one unidenti- fied jaeger, and a Sooty Tern (PH). These are all species that have been recorded in the n. Gulf of Mexico since pelagic trips off Texas became regular in the 1990s, but they had apparently never been documented in Tamaulipan waters. One Yellow-crowned Night-Heron was seen 23 Jun on Rio Remos, Rakes, N.L., where two pairs with nestlings were discovered last year (RGG), these being the first state records. Two White Ibis and 5 Wood Storks were seen near Anahuac, Tamps. 14 Jun (ORS, AOI). A single Peregrine Falcon was seen perching on the Canal 9 television antenna in Torreon, Coah. and hunting doves and pigeons in the sur- rounding area on 25, 26 & 31 Jul. Peregrine Falcons are a common sight in the Torreon city center from early Oct through early Apr, and there are a very few summer records from the nearby Nazas R. These are the first Jul sightings of Peregrines since 1984 in the city of Torreon (FVP, WB). Up to 17 Black-necked Stilts were seen near Anahuac 1 1-19 Jun, and 2 American Avocets were there 15 Jun (ORS, AOI). Royal Terns in ones and twos were seen near Anahuac 12- 19 Jun (ORS, AOI). Several Montezuma Quail were recorded, mostly by call, in pine- oak forest below El Palmito, Sin. 5 & 6 Jun (FR). One Burrowing Owl was near Los Mochis, Sin. 5 Jun (FR). Common Nighthawks were found abundantly near Anahuac in mid- Jun (ORS, AOI). One and 2 Barn and up to 3 Cave Swallows were seen near Anahuac in mid-Jun (ORS, AOI). Several male Painted Buntings on territory were also recorded near Anahuac 14-19 Jun (ORS, AOI). An early Lark Bunting in breeding plumage was seen in the campus of the Institute Tecnologico de La Laguna, Torreon 23 & 26 Jul (FVP, WB). A cou- ple of Lark Sparrows were seen near Anahuac 13- 19 Jun (ORS, AOI). Large numbers of Brown-headed Cowbirds were recorded together with other blackbirds near Anahuac in mid-Jun (ORS, AOI). Contributors (area compilers in boldface): William Beatty (WB), Ricardo Guerra de la Garza (RGG), Petra Hockey (PH), Adan Oliveras de Ita (AOI), Octavio Rojas Soto (ORS), Forrest Rowley (FR), Francisco Valdes Peresgasga (FVP). CENTRAL MEXICO Abbreviation: U.N.A.M. (Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico) HERONS THROUGH WRENS One Snowy Egret was at Almoloya del Rio, Mex. 22 Jul (HGdS, AOI, EG); this species is mapped by Howell and Webb (1995) in the state of Mexico as a winter visitor only. Two Black- crowned Night-Herons were seen at the Glorieta de Colon, Toluca, Mex. 5 Jul, above the 2200-m elevation stated as the upper limit by Howell and Webb (1995). Two Double-toothed Kites were seen 16 Jun at Laguna La Maria, Col. (FR). A Black Hawk- Eagle was seen 25 Jun on the Elicia road about 2 km ne. of Paraiso, Gro. Single Ornate Hawk-Eagles were seen 16 & 19 Jun near Finca San Antonio, above Comala, Col. (FR). One Peregrine Falcon was seen on the se. side of Cerro del Chiquihuite, Mex. 7 Jul (HGdS, MPV, HZV), and one was seen at La Cima, D.F. 11 Jul (HGdS, EG); this species was considered a rare winter visitor in the Mexico City area (Wilson and Ceballos 1993). A King Vulture was recorded 28 Jun over tropical dry forest around 14 mi s. of Atoyac, Gro. (FR). Two King Rails were seen 18 Jun at Laguna de Sayula, about 5 mi ne. of Ciudad Guzman, Jal. (FR). Two Common Terns were reported 15 Jun at the warm-water outflow from the hydroelectric power plant in Manzanillo, Col. (FR). Eight Bridled Terns were seen 15 Jun near Piedra Blanca off Manzanillo, as were 2 Brown Noddies (FR). Two Yellow- headed Parrots were noted 19 Jun near Comala (FR). A Lesser Roadrunner was seen 3 km e. of Parres (HGdS, AOI, EG). Barn Owl feathers and pellets were found on the se. side of Cerro del Chiquihuite, Mex. 7 Jul (HGdS, MPV, HZV); pellets included the jaws of different-sized rodents, a shrew skull, and the skulls of House Finches and an ad. Feral Pigeon. One Barn Owl was seen at La Cima 17 Jul (HGdS, EG). Two Flammulated Owls were recorded on Volcan de Fuego, Jal. 17 Jun (FR), and more Flammulated Owls were heard at El Palmito 6 Jun and at the lower campsite on Volcan de Fuego 17 Jun (FR). Two Balsas Screech-Owls were recorded 16 Jun on the road to Microondas La Cumbre, Col. (FR). Two Eared Poorwills were recorded 17 Jun at the lower campsite on Volcan de Fuego, Jal. in pine- oak forest (FR). At least 28 White-throated Swifts were at Cerro del Chiquihuite 7 Jul (HGdS, MPV, HZV). Green Violet-ears were staking out terri- tories both at La Cima and 3 km e. of Parres, D.F. 22 Jul (a single seen as early as 19 Jul). An estimated 1 1 Short-crested Coquettes were seen 25 & 27 Jun on the Elicia road about 2 km from Paraiso (1050 m) in humid tropical forest (FR). A Green-fronted Hummingbird was seen 25 Jun near San Vicente de Benitez, Gro. (FR). Several Amethyst-throated Hummingbirds were seen in cloud forest of Volcan de Fuego 18 Jun, above Carrizal (near Xochipala, Gro.) 23 Jun, and above Nueva Dehli, Gro. 26 Jun (FR). Five Garnet-throated Hummingbirds were seen above Carrizal 23 Jun (FR). Nine Long-billed Starthroats were seen near Paraiso 25-28 Jun (FR). Sparkling-tailed Woodstars were considered to be in lower num- bers than usual, with four sightings near El Palmito 6 Jun and above Paraiso 25-28 Jun (FR). Two Lucifer Hummingbirds were seen 17 Jun on Volcan de Fuego just above the lower campsite (FR). One Magnificent Hummingbird was seen at the U.N.A.M. Botanical Garden, D.F. 20 Jun (HGdS, MPV, SA). A Mountain Trogon was heard at the Parque Ecologico de la Ciudad de Mexico, D.F. 9 Jun (HGdS, SA, AE). One Eared Trogon was seen 6 Jun about one km w. of El Palmito (FR). Smoky-brown Woodpeckers were present 19 Jun near Comala (FR). A juv. Scaled Antpitta was detected 18 Jun 2 km above the upper campsite on Volcan de Fuego (FR). Eye-ringed Flatbills were recorded 25-28 Jun along the Elicia road and the El Eden Road near Paraiso (FR). One Pileated Flycatcher was heard at Zapotitlan de las Salinas, Pue. 2 8c 3 Jul (HGdS, MPV), and 2 were seen 23 Jun near Xochipala (FR). A White-throated Flycatcher was seen 3 km e. of Parres 25 Jul. White-throated Flycatchers were also seen in pine forest dose to 8000 ft above El Palmito 6 Jun, and a group with much social interaction was in tropical dry forest near Xochipala 23 Jun (FR). One Vermilion Flycatcher was seen 29 Jun near the U.N.A.M.’s Institute de Ecologia, D.F., where it is a rare summer visitor. White-throated Jays were seen 23 Jun in cloud forest above Carrizal in small groups, apparently “leading” mixed flocks (FR). More than 30 Sedge Wrens were seen at La Cima and 3 km e. of Parres, D.F. through Jul (HGdS, AOI, EG). SWALLOWS THROUGH ORIOLES A breeding colony of Cliff Swallows with 50 complete and 37 incomplete or abandoned nests was found in the relatively new library building of the Facultad de Ciencias, U.N.A.M., D.F. 11 Jun (HGdS, MPV). Although some native species lost habitat with the construction of the building (e.g., Black-chinned Sparrow), at least some others gained habitat (only one or two pairs of Cliff Swallows nested in the Facultad de Ciencias before the new library was built). White-throated Robins were heard at La Cima through Jul. One Blue Mockingbird was seen 20 Jun at the U.N.A.M. Botancial Garden, D.F. (HGdS, MPV, SA), where it had not been seen for many years, and 3 were recorded in Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 487 semiarid scrub on the se. side of Cerro del Chiquihuite 7 Jul (HGdS, MPV). At least 7 Phainopeplas were seen at Zapotitlan de las Salinas, Pue. 2-3 Jul (HGdS, MPV), where thought to be only winter visitors by Howell and Webb (1995). Small numbers of Gray Silky-flycatchers were present in and around the U.N.A.M. Botanical Garden throughout the reporting period; they had not been recorded in this area prior to 1995. Two Hooded Yellowthroats were heard at the Parque Ecologico de la Ciudad de Mexico 9 Jun (HGdS, SA, AE), and 2 were heard 3 km e. of Parres 22-24 Jul (HGdS, AOI). Blue Grosbeaks were not present in the U.N.A.M. Botanical Garden 20 Jun but were vocal by 30 Jun (HGdS, AOI). At least 2 Northern Cardinals were singing at the U.N.A.M. Botanical Garden on 20 & 30 Jun (HGdS, AOI, MPV, SA). At least 3 Cinnamon-bellied Flower-piercers were at the U.N.A.M. Botanical Garden 1 1 Jun (HGdS, MPV, SA), and one was singing in a small gar- den near the s. end of Avenida Revolucion in early Jul. Several dozen Sierra Madre Sparrows were seen in different locations in D.F. and just across the border in Mor. and Mex. (HGdS, LCG, AOI). One Song Sparrow was heard at 2940 m, above the elevation stated in Howell and Webb (1995), 13 km w. of Toluca 5 Jul. Abeille’s Orioles became much more active and conspicuous in Ciudad Universitaria, D.F. through the reporting period, though mostly silent or calling (song rarely heard). Contributors (area compiler in boldface): Sofia Arenas (SA), Leonardo Cabrera Garcia (LCG), Angelica Estrada (AE), Hector Gomez de Silva (HGdS), Elijah Goodwin (EG), Adan OUveras de Ita (AOI), Monica Perez Villafana (MPV), Forrest Rowley (FR), Heliot Zarza Villanueva (HZV). Uncredited observations are by Hector Gomez de Silva. SOUTHERN MEXICO The very early arrivals of Lesser Scaup and Black-crowned Night-Heron were the most unusual records for the period, and Forcey’s confirmation of nesting Cooper’s Hawks in the mountains northeast of Oaxaca City is likewise significant. BOOBIES THROUGH PARROTS A single ad. Blue-footed Booby and many Brown Boobies, as well as 4 Red-billed Tropicbirds, were seen on a rock island off Playa Zipolite (Puerto Angel), Oax. 23 Jun (MDC). A flock of 21 Brown Pelicans was seen soaring in the fog-shrouded foothills 15 km ne. of Arriaga, Chis. 21 Jun (MDC). Great Egrets were seen at various points in cen. Oax. through the summer, up to 9 at one time. One Great Blue Heron was around Santa Cruz Huatulco, Oax. 4 Jul (WB). An imm. Black- crowned Night-Heron was at the Rio Salado near San Juan Guelavia, Oax. 28 Jul. On the same date, a Lesser Scaup was seen at the sewage discharge area w. of Tlacolula, Oax, possibly an oversummering bird. One Osprey was seen near Santa Cruz Huatulco 4 Jul (WB). Continuing from the winter and spring. Cooper’s Hawks were recorded in the moun- tains n. and ne. of Oaxaca City several times through the period (JMF), including a nesting pair with 2 young on the road to La Guacamaya. These were reported in the spring 2001 report as “Acripifer strongly believed to be Cooper’s Hawks”; a primary feather recovered under the nest establishes the identification with certainty, as do JMF’s detailed observa- tions. A pair of Harris’s Hawks was seen 28 Jul near the sewage discharge area w. of Tlacolula. West Mexican Chachalacas were heard several times, mostly above Teotitlan del Valle, Oax. where seen 22 Jun . A Spotted Rail was heard in wet grasses surrounding a ditch near Tonala, Chis. 8 Jul (MDC). A nesting Common Moorhen was found in a small cattail marsh along the Rio Salado 28 Jul. A Solitary Sandpiper was seen 28 Jul at Tlacolula, and a Spotted Sandpiper was seen 21 Jul at Teotitlan del Valle (RA). The first interior Oax. record of Semipalmated Sandpiper was at Tlacolula sewage discharge area, a single bird found with 4 Least Sandpipers 28 Jul (also the earliest record of Least Sandpiper in 2001). The Semipalmated Sandpiper was still in the area 4 Aug. Two Least and several Royal Terns were noted around Santa Cruz Huatulco 3—4 Jul (WB). One Plain-breasted Ground-Dove was seen close to Santa Maria Huatulco 4 Jul (WB). About 200 Band-tailed Pigeons in flocks up to 50 birds were noted at La Luz, on the Atlantic Slope about 60 km ne. of Oaxaca City 16-20 Jul. Also, a flock of 5 Barred Parakeets was at La Luz 19 Jul. This locality is a cloud forest at 2000 m elevation. Several Lilac-crowned Parrots were seen around Santa Cruz Huatulco 4 Jul (WB). CUCKOOS THROUGH FINCHES One Mangrove and one Pheasant Cuckoo were recorded at El Sumidero, Chis. 7 Jul (MDC). Flocks of 25-30 Black Swifts were reported between 1-2 km inland of Santa Cruz Huatulco on the cloudy afternoons of 2 & 4 Jul (WB). There was a Berylline Hummingbird on a nest above San Felipe, Oax. 26 Jun. A Cinnamon-sided Hummingbird was noted on the road to Pluma Hidalgo, Oax. 4 Jul (WB). One male Green-throated Mountain-Gem was seen along with many Amethyst-throated and Garnet-throated Hummingbirds on the sum- mit of Cerro Huitepec, near San Cristobal de las Casas, Chis. 19 Jun (MDC). A Belted Kingfisher was seen 4 Jul near Santa Maria Huatulco (WB). A family group of 4-6 White- throated Jays was seen visiting a fruiting tree at San Jose del Pacifico, Oax. 24 & 29 Jun (MDC). A Wedge-billed Woodcreeper was studied at El Sumidero 20 Jun (MDC). An ad. and an imm. Violet-green Swallow were at Teotitlan del Valle 22 Jun (this species is very rare in central Oax. in summer). Apparently the first recorded nest of Golden Vireo in the Oaxaca Valley was seen above Teotitlan del Valle 16-17 Jun. An ad. female and an imm. Hooded Yellowthroat were seen at La Luz 17 Jul (JMF), and 3 or 4 calling males were recorded at San Jose del Pacifico 24 & 29 Jun (MDC). A pair of Red-breasted Chats was near Santa Cruz Huatulco 3 Jul (WB). One singing Rusty-crowned Ground-Sparrow was reported 8 km above the Pluma Hidalgo turnoff 23 Jun (MDC). A singing male Slate- blue Seedeater was seen 12 km n. of Iguala, Gro. 1 1 Jul (this species has been found at this local- ity in spring and summer for the last three years, per MDC). One Melodious Blackbird was reported 30 Jun at the Santa Cruz Huatulco marina (MDC), and another was reported 5 Jul at Tangolunda, 6 km n. of the marina (WB). These records very probably refer to different individuals. This species was absent from the Pacific coast of Oax. until a few years ago, when singles were reported from Mazunte (50 km to the w. of Huatulco) in 1995 and 1996 (Gomez de Silva 1998) and again in 2000 (HGdS). Black-headed Siskins recorded 20 & 26 Jun at San Felipe Park were low in elevation. Early nesting for Lesser Goldfinch was noted at Monte Alban, Oax. 29 Jun. Contributors (area compilers in boldface): Ricardo Antonio (RA), William Beatty (WB), Michael D. Carmody (MDC), John M. Forcey (JMF), and Hector Gomez de Silva (HGdS). Uncredited observations are by John M. Forcey. YUCATAN PENINSULA It is requested that all sightings of Swallow- tailed Kite from the Yucatan Peninsula be reported to Gina M. Zimmerman (email: Zimmerman@arcinst.org) . PELICANS THROUGH TERNS A hundred American White Pelicans were reported at Celestun, Yuc. 17 Jul (DB), and at least 95 were still present on the same sand spit 29 Jul (DB, BM). These and other reports — BM photographed this species at the Greater Flamingo nesting colony at Punta Meco, Yuc. 3 & 7 Jun 1979 — raise the possibility that some 488 North American Birds Mexico — Central America individuals oversummer in the Region. Black- throated Bobwhites were calling constantly from the vegetation bordering the salt ponds n. of Celestun 29 Jul (DB, BM). Early records of migrant shorebirds in Celestun, where there is continuous monitoring, are of one Black-bel- lied Plover 20 Jul, 3 Snowy and 9 Semipalmated Plovers 29 Jul (DB, BM), one Greater Yellowlegs 27 Jul, at least 6 Lesser Yellowlegs 29 Jul (DB, BM), 5 Ruddy Turnstones 20 Jul, and 3 Sanderlings with 16 Least Sandpipers 29 Jul (DB, BM). Only 5 Willets were seen at Celestun 29 Jul (DB, BM), whereas 80 Willets were seen 17 Jul (together with the possibly oversummer- ing American White Pelicans). Willets are extremely plentiful on the w. and n. coasts of the peninsula, particularly during migration, but they usually arrive in late Jul. The Spotted Sandpiper is an early arrival on the peninsula, so it was no surprise to find 4 together at Celestun 29 Jul (DB, BM). A small number of nonbreeding individuals of this species over- summer each year. A basic-plumaged ad. Caspian Tern was observed in the estuary at Sisal, Yuc. on 8 Jul (BM). Nonbreeding individ- uals are known to oversummer in the Region. A single Forster’s and a molting Black Tern were observed in Celestun 29 Jul (DB, BM). CUCKOOS THROUGH FLYCATCHERS A Yellow-billed Cuckoo was seen in Celestun’s coastal vegetation 29 Jul (DB, BM). It is not known to nest there and so was assumed to be a migrant. A Belted Kingfisher was studied in Celestun 29 Jul (DB, BM). Prior to this record, this species had been recorded on the peninsu- la only as early as 31 Jul near Escarcega, Camp, (in 1983; BM). A Rufous-breasted Spinetail was found in Jul building its enormous stick nest a short distance into the woods from the road leading to Laguna Muyil, near Chunyaxche, Q. Roo (IC). Three South American migrants — Piratic and Sulphur-bellied Flycatchers and Yellow-green Vireos — made themselves at home in the archeological zone of Muyil, Q. Roo through the spring and summer. The Piratic Flycatcher appears to favor the nests of the Social Flycatcher and Rose-throat- ed Becard; stealing of the nest of the White- eyed Flycatcher, as occurs in Costa Rica, was not noted, although White-eyed Flycatcher is also common in Muyil (IC). A single Piratic Flycatcher was recorded in Celestun 28 Jun (JSO), this being the first record for n. Yucatan. SWALLOWS THROUGH HONEYCREEPERS Approximately 30 Purple Martins were observed feeding over the coast of Celestun 29 Jul, along with a few Barn Swallows (DB, BM). The call of Yucatan Wren could be heard fre- quently in Celestun through the summer. Between 31 Jul and 3 Aug, a Tropical Mockingbird was observed at Celestun feeding a Bronzed Cowbird chick, indicating that its nest had been parasitized, as has been observed before. The only migrant warblers reported during Jun and Jul were 2 female Yellow Warblers in Celestun 29 Jul (DB, BM — ^this is the earliest date noted for this species on the peninsula, the previous early dates being one 4 Aug 1982 and 4 on 10 Aug 1983, per BM) and a Louisiana Waterthrush at Chunyaxche 30 Jul-4 Aug. A pair of Red-legged Honeycreepers had young in the nest in Chunyaxche 4 Aug. Contributors (area compiler in boldface): David Bacab (DB), Ismael Camaal (IC), Barbara Mackinnon (BM), Javier Salgado H. Lee Jones P.O. 80X158 Punta Gorda, Belize U.S. address: 6108 Wildwood Road Lake Isabella, California 93240 (buteo@attglobal.net) Oliver Komar continues to rewrite the chapter on bird distribution in El Salvador. Relatively little avian field research has been undertaken in this small country in the past, and Oliver continues to demonstrate how much we still have to learn. In just two months, June and July, he and his field associates found hereto- fore-unknown resident or likely resident popu- Ortiz (JSO). Uncredited observations are by David Bacab. Literature cited Binford, L. C. 1989. A distributional survey of the birds of the Mexican state of Oaxaca. Ornithological Monographs No. 43. American Ornithologists’ Union. Gomez de Silva, H. 1998. Distributional and temporal records of some Mexican birds. Cotmga9: 16-20. Howell, S. N. G., and S. Webb. 1995. A Guide to the Birds of Mexico and Northern Central America. Oxford University Press. New York. Wilson, R. G., and H. Ceballos-Lascurain. 1993. The birds of Mexico City. BBC Printing and Graphics, Burlington, Ontario, Canada. lations of four species each in Dept. Morazan (Green Violet-ear, Brown-backed Solitaire, White-throated Robin, Slate-throated Redstart) and Dept. Chalatenango (King Vulture, Lesser Swallow-tailed Swift, Wine-throated Hummingbird, Bar-winged Oriole) and found evidence of breeding for three other species (Zone-tailed Hawk, Red-throated Green Parakeet, Common Nighthawk) previously not known to nest in El Salvador. By way of contrast, reports of species found only a few km beyond their known distributional limits in heavily birded Costa Rica are noteworthy. But if some- one wants to be a twenty-first-century trailblaz- er in Central American ornithology, may I sug- gest Nicaragua? Other than Thomas Howell’s Central America Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 489 The discovery a large colony of Agami Herons south of Punta Gorda — involving some 60 adults and photographed here 15 August — was one of the many highlights in Belize this season. Photograph by H. Lee Jones. O Quite exciting was the discovery of sizable Agami Heron nesting colony in mangroves near the mouth of the Moho R. just seven km s. of Punta Gorda, Belize 4 Aug (WRM). This may be the first documented nesting colony for Belize. The colony, estimated at 60 ads., still had occupied nests with eggs and young when last visited on 15 Aug (WRM, LJj.This species is rarely seen in s. Belize, yet it is practically common at Crooked Tree in n. Belize during the dry season (Jan-May), a locality where it appears to be seasonal and does not nest. Not unlike other, more familiar herons, it apparently nests in widely scattered colonies along the coast and outside the breeding season disperses inland to for- est-lined lagoons, streams, and swamps. work, primarily in the 1960s, few ornithologists have spent any length of time in the country, and Nicaragua has not exactly been a mecca for birders. The end of the protracted civil war in the late 1980s has made birding exploration fea- sible once again. In addition to Nicaragua, we still need contributors and compilers from Guatemala and Honduras in order to have more balanced reporting for the Region. Any volun- teers? Abbreviations: Crooked Tree (Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary); Lamanai (Lamanai Outpost Lodge, Belize); La Selva (La Selva Biological Station, Costa Rica); Monteverde (Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, Costa Rica); S.F. (shrimp farm); U.K.N.H.M. (University of Kansas Natural History Museum). HERONS THROUGH SANDPIPERS The status of Least Bittern is still unclear in Belize. It appears to be an uncommon and elu- sive resident in the n. half of the country, but it occasionally turns up on some of the small cayes, so probable migrants do occur. One at Dawson Cr., a small tributary of the New R. near Lamanai 18 Jul (MM), was at a locality where it is seen regularly and probably breeds; however, one bird two days later at the San Pedro (Ambergris Caye) sewage ponds (MM) was most likely a post-breeding wanderer or migrant. Ad. King Vultures flying over La Montanona 25 & 27 lul, respectively (OK), established the first records for Dept. Chalatenango, El Salvador. The breeding status of Zone-tailed Hawk in much of Mexico and Central America is unclear. Although nesting has been suspected in a number of areas where the species has a year-round presence (especially parts of Costa Rica and Panama), there are very few docu- mented nesting records between ccn. Mexico and South America. In El Salvador, it is thought to be a winter visitor only; however, records of an ad. e. of Cerro Las Nubes in nw. Dept. Chalatenango 25 lun (OK) and a juv. repeatedly vocalizing from a pine tree at Cerro La Montanona in e. Dept. Chalatenango 26 Jul (ph. OK) suggest that the species may breed locally in montane pine-oak forest near the Flonduras border. One Greater and one Lesser Yellowlegs at Aqua Mar S.F., along with a Willet at Punta Gorda and 2 more at Aqua Mar S.F., all on 2 1 Jul (LJ), established the earliest fall migrant records to date for each of these three species in Belize. A Least Sandpiper in Punta Gorda 13 Jul (LJ) established the earliest record for that species in Belize. These species undoubtedly occur earlier, at least in some years, but shorebirding is not yet a popular pastime in Central America, and much is still to be learned about their seasonali- ty and abundance through the year. PARROTS THROUGH HUMMINGBIRDS Evidence is mounting that the Red-throated subspecies of Green Parakeet (considered by many to be a full species) nests in El Salvador. In summer 2000, OK found circumstantial evi- dence of breeding in Dept. Morazan. This sum- mer, he again had frequent sightings of pairs and flocks (up to 14 birds) in the pine forests of n. Dept. Morazan in early Jun and mid-Jul, where local residents claimed to have seen nests. Common Nighthawk may also be a local sum- mer resident in El Salvador. OK heard and saw one bird at Perqui'n, Dept. Morazan 19 Jul, where locals say that it is present all summer. Both Great and Lesser Swallow-tailed Swift are rarely reported in El Salvador. Typically, Great occurs at higher elevations, but the two have also been seen in mixed flocks. Although the Great is now reported regularly throughout much of the country, it was not documented until 8 Jun, when OK obtained photographs of several birds in a flock of 6 at Perquin. Three Lesser Swallow-tailed Swifts at La Montanona 27 Jul (OK) established the first records for Dept. Chalatenango. They were seen with the larger Great Swallow-tailed Swift for comparison. A Green Violet-ear at Perquin 18 Jul (ph. OK, *U.K.N.H.M.) provided the first record for Dept. Morazan. Violet-crowned Woodnymph reaches its n. distributional limit in extreme s. Belize, where it is seldom reported. Thus, a female seen near San Pedro Columbia, Toledo Dist. 2 Jun (LJ) is noteworthy. The Blue-tailed Hummingbird is rarely seen in Costa Rica but in recent years has been reported occasionally from the Monteverde area. One seen between San Luis and Monteverde 21 Jul (RD, LG) continues this trend. A bit s. of its normal range in Costa Rica was a Cinnamon Hummingbird coming to a feeder in Escaleras, 6 km se. of Dominical, 12 Jun-25 Jul (BN). In El Salvador, a female Wine- throated Hummingbird well studied at Cerro El 490 North American Birds Central America — Hawaiian Islands Pital 26 Jun (OK, KZ, EG-T) was the first ever reported in Dept. Chalatenango. WOODPECKERS THROUGH JAYS The taxonomy of the Centurus subgenus of woodpeckers is complex, with ill-defined species limits, extensive geographical variation, and, not surprisingly, frequent hybridization between some forms in their zones of overlap. The Golden-fronted and Hoffmann’s Woodpeckers are two such species (or are they subspecies?). They are known to hybridize only in one small area of s. Honduras where their ranges overlap along one river drainage. In Dept. Morazan, El Salvador, 50 km to the nw., OK obtained photo- graphs, a specimen, and written descriptions of several presumed hybrids on 6 Jun and 19 Jul. Hoffmann’s has yet to be recorded in El Salvador. A Western Wood-Pewee at Perquin, Dept. Morazan 17 Jul (OK) was probably an early fall migrant or wanderer, as it was in an area where the species is not known to breed. A Fork-tailed Flycatcher in Punta Gorda 13 Jul (LJ) was in an area of Belize where it does not breed and is rarely seen. The population in Belize is not known to be migratory, but a migrant from farther n. in Mexico or from South America (nominate savanna is a long-dis- tance austral migrant) cannot be ruled out. The Lovely Cotinga was recorded on the Pacific slope of Costa Rica for the first time when one was found at Los Llanos, 3 km sw. of Santa Elena (near Monteverde) on 31 Jul (CG). A Bare-necked Umbrellabird at La Selva 28 Jul (EC) was the first reported from the lowlands this season. In Costa Rica, an isolated popula- tion of White-throated Magpie-Jays has been established around Dominical for about 10 years. There are no reports from Quepos, Savegre, Damas and other frequently birded areas between Dominical and the nw. (Nicoya Pen., Guanacaste), where they are common. In Jun, small groups of birds were seen in several locations down the coast from Dominical as far as Bahia Ballena N.P. (BN), suggesting that the population may have expanded in that direc- tion, but interestingly, not in the other direction to cover the existing population gap. SWALLOWS THROUGH BLACKBIRDS The Purple Martin is the earliest fall migrant in much of Central America. One in Belize City on 19 Jun (PC) was quite early, even for this species, but still not the earliest date on record. The first Purple Martin was not recorded in Costa Rica until nearly a month later — 17 Jul (JA, lA, EC) near La Selva. The Barn Swallow is also one of the earliest fall migrants, but one at Puente Colima, El Salvador 25 Jun (OK, KZ) may have been summering, or lost. The first southbound migrants (6) in Belize were seen 19 Jul (MM), and they were being seen frequently a week later. The earliest fall date on record for Belize is 9 Jul. Two more firsts for Dept. Morazan were 1 1 singing male Brown-backed Solitaires found 5 km ne. of Perquin 6-7 Jun (OK) and 3 White- throated Robins at Cerro Cacahuatique 1 1 Jul (KZ, JdL). A Yellow-throated Warbler at La Montanona, Dept. Chalatenango 27 Jul (OK) was only the 4th ever recorded in El Salvador. Several species of warblers begin arriving in Jul. Four this year matched or established the earliest arrival dates on record for Belize; Black-and-white Warbler, 23 Jul (PB); Prothonotary Warbler, 28 Jul (PH); Worm-eating Warbler, 29 Jul (MMa); and Louisiana Waterthrush, 14 Jul (MM). A Louisiana Waterthrush on 24 Jul (OK) was the earliest yet for El Salvador. Two singing male Slate-throated Redstarts 7 Jun (OK) 5 km ne. of Perquin established the first records of this species from Dept. Morazdn. Four Elegant Euphonias at Cerro Cacahuatique, Dept. Morazan 13 Jul (OK) were a pleasant surprise, as this species is rarely reported in El Salvador. In Costa Rica, the Melodious Blackbird has been expanding its range southward for several decades, presumably in response to deforesta- tion and human settlement. First recorded in the mid-1980s, it is now common in nw. Costa Rica. One was at Escaleras at the extreme s. edge of the species’s range on 16 Jun (BN). Several male Bar-winged Orioles were found at La Montanona 23-27 Jul (OK), establishing the first records for Dept. Chalatenango. The first 2 Orchard Orioles of the season were at Playa Guapil near Dominical on 26 Jul (JRZ). Cited observers (country coordinators in bold- face): Iliana Alvarado, Joel Alvarado, Eduardo Amengual, Philip Balderamos, Eric Castro, Robert Dean, Erick Garcia-Trejo, Leonardo Guarrigues, Carlos Guidon, Peter Herrera, Lee Jones (Belize), Oliver Komar (El Salvador), Jorge de Leon, Mark MacReynolds (MMa), Martin Meadows, Brian Nice, Wilfred Requena- Mutrie, James R. Zook (Costa Rica), Kristof Zyskowski. /j Hawaiian Islands Robert L. Pyle 1 31 4 Kalakaua Avenue, #1 01 0 Honolulu, Hawaii 96826 (rlpyle@hawaii.rr.com) Peter Donaldson 2375 Ahakapu Street Pearl City, Hawaii 96782 (pclonaldson@hawaii.rr.com) It has been a quiet summer in the Hawaiian Islands. A long drought continues. Most areas of Kauah and 0‘ahu received above normal rainfall in June, and the east side of the Big Island received above-normal rainfall in July, but rainfall for the year remains well below nor- mal. There were few reports of rare species or unusual numhers. Reintroduced Hawaiian Geese seem to be doing well, but the plight of Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 491 the Hawaiian Crow is desperate. Abbreviations: E. (Endangered Species); H. (Hawai'i I.); Hakalau (Hakalau N.W.R., Hawai‘i I.); Hanalei (Hanalei N.W.R., Kaua‘i E); Honouliuli (Honouliuli Unit of Pearl Harbor N.W.R., Oahu L); K. (Kaua‘i L); Kealia (Kealia Pond N.W.R., Maui I.); Kii (Ki‘i Unit of Jas. Campbell N.W.R., 0‘ahu E); K.R (Kilauea Pt. N.W.R., Kaua'i E); M. (Maui E); O. (Oahu E); Waiawa (Waiawa Unit of Pearl Harbor N.W.R., O'ahu E); T. (Threatened Species). PETRELS THROUGH TROPICBIRDS One Bulwer’s Petrel was found on Popoi‘a 1. in early Jun (DS). This small island off 0‘ahu has been used to launch Eourth of Jul fireworks despite the presence of nesting seabirds. This year, the fireworks were fired from a floating barge instead. At sunrise 19 Jul, Wedge-tailed Shearwaters were flying past La‘ie Pt., O. at the rate of 20 per minute. Over 300 birds were seen (PD). One Red-tailed Tropicbird was seen at Kii 28 Jun (MS), a location where they are seldom reported. Fourteen Red-tailed Tropicbirds were counted near Ako'ako'a Pt., H. 15 Jul. This is twice the number seen there a year earlier (RP). HERONS THROUGH PHEASANTS A Snowy or Tittle Egret was observed from a distance at Hanalei 28 Jul (fMRo). The bird was not seen well enough to determine which of those species it was. There are no previous records of Snowy or Tittle Egrets on Kaua‘i. A Cattle Egret was observed on Midway 28 Jun & 1 Jul (JH). Cattle Egrets are rare on the nw. Hawaiian Islands. There were 350 Cattle Egrets, an unusually high count, on newly planted lawns at a park in cen. 0‘ahu 19 Jul (DB). Reintroduced Hawaiian Geese (Nene) (E.) have been doing well at Hakalau. Three goslings hatched in Jan, and 3 hatched in May had sur- vived into Jul-h (JJ). Seventeen captive-raised birds were released on the refuge in Jun, bring- ing the total number of Nene in the area to around 40. Some of these birds have dispersed as far as 12 mi from the release site and joined a previously established flock (JJ). A Brant observed at Kealia during the spring was still present 6 & 21 Jun (MN). An Osprey was seen at Waiawa 28 Jun (MS). A large raptor seen on Kaho'olawe 19 Jul may also have been an Osprey {fide ET). Red Junglefowl or feral chickens were reported to be widespread on Kaua‘i in Jul, with both gray- legged and yellow-legged birds from sea level to high elevations (fMRo). It has been assumed that gray-legged birds at high elevations arewild descendants of birds introduced to Hawaii by the Polynesians; while birds at lower elevations (generally yellow-legged birds) are recent escapees. This report casts doubt on the idea that these birds can be separated. More reports would be useful. SHOREBIRDS THROUGH TERNS Hawaiian (Black-necked) Stilt (E.) nesting was still going strong at the end of Jul. It is too early to say how the season will turn out overall, but more chicks had fledged at Kii by 31 Jul than fledged all last year (PD, MS et al.). There were some unusually high counts of oversummering Only 2 Hawaiian Crows (‘Alala) (E.), a mated pair, remain in the wild. The pair attempted to nest again this year but abandoned their nest in late Jun. The female is probably now too old to breed. She has laid no eggs since 1996. There is a population of captive Hawaiian Crows, but no captive-reared birds have survived for long when released in the wild. There are currently no plans to release any more captive birds (GK). shorebirds this year. Around 100 Pacific Golden-Plovers were seen on Midway 1 Jun (ET). Even more unusual was a flock of 87 at Honouliuli 28 Jun (MS). There have been other counts of 100-t- Pacific Golden- Plovers on the Northwest Hawaiian Islands in Jun, but the 87 birds at Honouliuli is by far the largest Jun count recorded on any of the main islands. Seven to 10 Bristle-thighed Curlews oversum- mered in the pasture behind Kii (MO, RPy et ah). A Black-tailed Godwit (the only one recorded in Hawai'i) remained at Kii Jun-t- (PD et al.). A Bar-tailed Godwit at Hilo Airport Jun 12-19 (ph. TO) represented only the 2nd Jun record for Hawaii and the first on the main islands. A Ring-billed Gull was observed at the Chevron Refinery, O. through 19 Jul (EG). Ring-billed Gulls are uncommon in Hawaii. A 2nd unidentified gull was there through 29 Jun (EG, ABW, H.A.S.). A Caspian Tern that has wandered around the islands for the last sever- al months apparently remained on 0‘ahu in Jul. The bird was seen in Kane'ohe 10 Jul and at Kii 17-23 (GF) & 29 Jul (PD). One to 3 small Sterna terns remained on Midway Jun-i- (ET, JH, WS). Two of the birds nested, and 3 eggs were seen 22 Jun (NG). These birds were reported as Eeast Terns, but no details were submitted. Both Tittle and Eeast Terns have nested on Midway. One small tern was photographed at Honouliuli 1 Jun (ph. KH, GF). The bird appeared to be either a Least or Little Tern, but photos of the perched bird were not diagnostic. Least and/or IJttle Terns are rare but regular in Hawaii, but most records do not allow us to tell which species was observed. PASSERINES Hawaii ‘Elepaio and Oma'o juvs. were first spotted at Hakalau the last week of Jun, sev- eral weeks later than usual (JJ). Single Northern Mockingbirds were seen in sw. Kaua'i 25 & 27 Jul (fMRo). Mockingbirds are seldom reported, so their status is hard to determine. ‘I‘iwi and ‘Apapane were virtually absent from the Pua ‘Akala unit of Hakalau, probably due to the lack of lehua blossoms (JJ). ‘1‘iwi were also reported to be hard to find on Kaua'i 27 Jul (MRo), and ‘Apapane were also reported as being scarce on 0‘ahu (MW). Three Akiapola'au (E.) nests were located at Hakalau in Jun (LP). It is hoped that Akiapola'au eggs can be collected for captive-rearing efforts, but the nests discov- ered in Jun were near the tops of tall trees and none could be reached (JJ). Contributors: Chad Castle, Reg David, Peter Donaldson, George Fisher, Beth Flint, Norm Garon, Leila Gibson, Hawaii Audubon Society (H. A. S.), Kathy Hachey, Jennifer Herrmann, Glenn Klingler, Jack Jeffrey, David Kuhn, Dan Lindsay, Matt Medeiros, Michele Morris, Mike Nishimoto, Tim Ohashi, Mike Ord, Rob Pacheco, Liba Pejar, Thane Pratt, Robert Pyle (RPy), Mark Rauzon, Mike Rogers (MRo), Eric Rosenfeld, Wayne Sentman, Mike Silbernagle, Dave Smith, Lance Tanino, Tom Telfer, Kim Uyehara, Eric VanderWerf, Michael Walther, Abby Brown-Watson, David Watson. a 492 North American Birds Hawaiian Islands — West Indies West Indies ‘ Abaco I. 0.001). This result suggests that that the more southerly counts had larger increases but that the longitude of the count had relatively little bearing. When direction variables were run as a mul- tiple regression on merganser numbers, a similar effect was determined: the north-south direction had a significant result; the east- west direction did not. Temperature Changes There were statistically significant changes in the average temperatures reported (in Fahrenheit degrees) for the New England C.B.C.s between the two decades. These changes were similar for all three factors con- sidered: high temperature, low temperature, and mean temperature. The aggregate mean temperatures for the count years appear in Table 4. When each count’s mean temperatures for the 1980s were compared to its means for the 1990s, there are also significant differences (Table 5). Again, the differences are similar for each temperature value. The results of paired t-tests’ average high, average low, and average mean for the 1980s compared to those for the 1990s are presented in Table 5. Changes in temperatures were not, however, significantly correlated with latitude (r=0.06) or longitude (r=0.10). More importantly, there is not a significant relationship between the average temperature changes between the decades and the changes in the average counts of HMs (r=0.02). This is in spite of the observation Table 4. Average High, Low, and Mean Temperatures on Count Days by Year YEAR AVE. HIGH AVE. LOW AVE. MEAN 1985 27.3 12.0 19.7 1986 35.7 24.0 29.8 1987 32.3 18.0 25.2 1988 26.7 11.8 19.3 1996 36.0 23.0 29.4 1997 37.2 24.7 30.9 1998 35.4 20.1 27.7 that both the average temperature and the average numbers of HMs increased for nearly all the counts. These temperatures, naturally, are single-day temperatures from each count for each year, and, as such, may not be representative of the actual “climate” or average temperature change. It would be worthwhile to attempt to correlate the change in numbers of HMs with the actual average climatological data. Table 5. Average Temperature Changes From the 80s to 90s AVE. LOW AVE. HIGH AVE. MEAN TEMPERATURE DIFFERENCE +6.1 +5.6 +5.8 PAIRED -t VALUE 7.62 9.13 9.11 p value <0.0001 <0.0001 <0.0001 496 North American Birds Table 6. CHANGE IN NEW ENGLAND WINTERING HOODED MERGANSER AND CHANGE IN AVERAGE TEMPERATURE BY LATITUDE-LONGITUDE BLOCKS 73® 0 CM 71° 70° 69° 68° 67° 66° 2 2 2 2 3 3 3 1 44® 0.18 0.0 0.01 0.16 0.18 -0.01 0.17 0.38 3.4 8.3 2.6 10.8 5.4 2.3 12.1 7.1 1 5 3 4 1 1 43° 0.0 0.05 0.41 0.03 0.50 0.01 4.3 1.5 4.6 6.5 8.8 1.8 3 6 8 5 0 ca 0.06 -0.04 0.24 0.14 6.2 6.3 4.1 7.1 7 8 5 7 1 1 41° 0.39 0.39 0.55 0.65 0.21 also 45°-71°: 0.01 6.7 5.7 0.0 8.1 11.6 7.8 KEY: # of counts in the Lat-Long block change in HM/P-Hr for the counts in that block change in temp in degrees Fahrenheit for the counts in that block when the analysis of temperature change between the decades and change in numbers of HMs is done by individual C.B.C. with a regres- sion, the statistical values are as follows: ^0.02, F=0.041, and P^O.84. When the same comparison is made by Lat-Long blocks, there is also no signif- icant relationship (;^0.08, F=0.131, and P=0.72). For both of these analyses, similar results were obtained for all three temperature values (Table 6). Coastal Factor Also entered into the data set was whether or not each count circle included the Atlantic coast. Hooded Mergansers winter on both salt water and fresh water. In New England winters, the fresh water is often frozen. Whether or not the local fresh water was frozen was not included in this analysis. Of the 87 counts considered, 34 or 39% included the coast. When the coastal variable was considered in the changes in Hooded Merganser numbers, it was independently correlated with higher count numbers and with increases between the decades. The coastal counts in the 1980s recorded an average of 0.352 HMs/P-Hr versus an average of 0.057 for the non-coastal counts (P<0.01). For the 1990s, the averages were 0.717 for the coastal counts and 0.181 for the non-coastal (P<0.001). The calculated increase in HMs/P-Hr per count was also significant on this variable: the increase for the coastal counts was 0.379 versus 0.128 for the noncoastal counts (p<0.001). This difference is not just the difference between the averages for the 1980s and those for the 1990s, as it includes the differences for each count, not simply the differences by decade. To determine if the coastal variable was inde- pendently related to merganser increases, it was run in multiple regressions with latitude, longi- tude, and temperature. More of the eastern counts and more of the southern counts were coastal; sim- ilarly, both in the 1980s and 1990s, the coastal counts had warmer temperatures than the counts in the interior, but the temperature changes between the 1980s and 1990s did not differ significantly between the coastal and noncoastal counts (Table 7). The multiple regression analysis for the variables COASTAL, LATI- TUDE, and LONGITUDE as correlates with TEMPERATURE CHANGE, however, both clarified and obscured the effects: none of the Table 7. Average Temperature Changes for Coastal and Non-Coastal Counts COASTAL NON-COASTAL d-VALUE 80s AVE. TEMP. 26.9 21.3 <0.0001 90s AVE. TEMP. 33.0 26.9 <0.0001 TEMP. CHANGE (from 80s to 90s) -f6.2 +5.5 NS (P=0.61) three variables was significantly correlated with the temperature change between decades (/^0.106, F=0.289, and P=0.833 for the multiple regression). On the other hand, those variables were definitely related to the aver- age temperatures for both the 1980s and the 1990s. For the 1980s, both coastal and lower latitude counts had significantly higher temperatures (Table 8). Actually, the three variables accounted for 70% of the tem- perature variation between counts; the coastal and latitude variables taken alone account for 69% of the variation. Similar results are obtained for the 1990s (Table 9), although the coastal variable is only marginally significant (P<0.10). Clearly, latitude is by far the most important variable related to temperature; longitude does not matter much at all; and the coastal variable is intermediately important. When all of these variables are used in a combined analysis to tease out their independent relationships with the increase in num- bers of Hooded Mergansers, the results are not surprising given the above analyses. The four-variable model (LATITUDE, LONGITUDE, Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 497 TEMPERATURE, COASTAL) is not as good a predictor as the three- variable model (LATITUDE, LONGITUDE, COASTAL), and the three- variable model is not as good as the two-variable model (LATITUDE, COASTAL; Table 10). The temperature change is the least correlated variable, so that variable is left out in the next multiple regression (Table 11). As shown before, the longitude is not a very influential compo- nent, so it is dropped in the next analysis (Table 12). Table 8. Average Temperature for the Counts in the 80s Correlated With Latitude, Longitude, and Coastal Variables =0.836 R2= 0.699 F= 60.26 p< 0.0001 VARIABLE d-VALUE oartial-F COASTAL 0.0128 6.486 U\TITUDE 0.0001 68.7 LONGITUDE 0.7312 0.119 Discussion This study demonstrates an increase in the numbers of Hooded Mergansers reported on the New England C.B.C.s over the past decade. Counts that are farther south not only had larger merganser counts in the 1980s and 1990s on average, but also had larger increases in mer- ganser numbers between decades. New England C.B.C. areas that include the coast have higher numbers of Hooded Mergansers. A subanalysis demonstrates an increase in the temperatures (high, low, and mean) reported for the count days. These temperature changes are not correlated with the increase in the counts of Hooded Table 9. Average Temperatures for the 90s Counts Correlated With the Latitude, Longitude, and Coastal Variables r=0.688 R2= 0.473 F= 24.55 p< 0.0001 VARIABLE COASTAL LATITUDE LONGITUDE p-VALUE 0.0515 0.0001 0.5460 partial-F 3.905 28.8 0.367 Mergansers. I could not determine whether there actually has been a warming trend over the past decade, or whether some nuance of the C.B.C. dates chosen (e.g., earlier dates) accounts for the temperature increases. An increase in wintering Hooded Mergansers in New England was clearly demonstrated by this analysis; however, no explanation for the increase, other than a possible association with warmer temperatures, is feasible within the scope of this paper. Further analysis would be need- ed to assess whether other regions of the country have had correspon- ding increases (in which case the total numbers are increasing) or rather decreases (in which case there may be a shift in wintering range for the species). The recent availability of C.B.C. data online should aid such Table 10. Four-variable Model: Change in Hooded Mergansers per P-Hr by Latitude, Longitude, Temp. Change, and Coastal Variables r= 0.482 F= 5.743 p= 0.0004 Variable oartial-F D-value COASTAL .36 0.129 LATITUDE 6.65 0.012 LONGITUDE 0.25 0.622 TEMP. CHANGE 0.05 0.827 Table 11. Three-variable model: Change in Hooded Mergansers per P-Hr by Latitude, Longitude, and Coastal Variables CO oo o II F= 7.914 p< 0.0001 Variable oartial-F 0-value LATITUDE 6.75 0.011 LONGITUDE 0.23 0.632 COASTAL 2.54 0.115 Table 12. Two-variable model: Change in Hooded Mergansers by Latitude and Coastal Variables r= 0.481 F=11.87 p< 0.0001 Variable oartial-F o-value LATITUDE 10.12 0.002 COASTAL 7.02 0.010 analyses. If the continental population has increased, an investigation of potential reasons for this increase could also prove interesting. Further evaluation of the relationship of increasing numbers with increased temperature would also be in order: temperature changes, if indeed fully demonstrable, could be a causal factor or simply coinci- dental. If Hooded Mergansers appear to seek out a specific temperature range, it might prove fruitful to investigate whether numbers of other mergansers and of other ducks underwent similar changes in wintering for the same period. On a more basic statistical level, the degree to which the temperatures recorded for the Christmas Bird Counts repre- sent the actual climatological data trends might likewise be an object of research. Literature cited Root, Terry. 1988. Atlas of Wintering North American Birds. University of Chicago Press, Chicago, Illinois. — Received 12 November 2000; accepted 15 June 2001. 498 North American Birds Evidence of post-migratory movements among iandbirds wintering on Biock Island, Rhode Island 2000-2001 Winter movements of Iandbirds S. S. Mitra Dept, of Natural Resource Sciences University of Rhode island Kingston, Rhode Island 02881 (email: tixbirdz@gsosun1 .gso.uri.edu) C. J. Raithel Rhode island Division of Fish and Wildlife RO. Box 218 West Kingston, Rhode Island 02892 Abstract C.B.C.-style counts conducted on Block Island, Rhode Island (B. I.) in November, December, and February (2000-2001) provided evidence of facultative, post- migratory movements among 12 or more species of thicket-dwelling Iandbirds. As predicted, species that increased in den- sity on B. I. between November and December were composed dispro- portionately of half-hardy species, for which southern New England is at or near the northern limit of normal winter distributions, and for which stereotyped southbound migration is typically expected to have been completed well before mid-November. In contrast, several true late-fall migrants (the species most likely to continue stereotyped migration November-December) occurred at highest density in November and were essentially absent by February (or even December). Finally, the most numerous winter residents of B. I.’s thickets typically occurred at relatively stable densities in November and December and at somewhat lower densities in February. These results support the existence of a natural distinction between late migrants and half-hardy wintering species in northeastern North America, mitigate concerns that the early-winter timing of C.B.C.s exposes them to the widespread presence of lingering southbound migrants in northeastern North America, and cast doubt on the popu- lar assumption that the diminution of half-hardy species from mid- to late winter must reflect mortality rather than post-migratory dispersal. Introduction The extent to which migratory Iandbirds undertake major facultative movements outside of typical migratory periods is poorly known (Gauthreaux 1982), and such movements have seldom been document- ed (e.g., Niles et al. 1969, Terrill and Crawford 1988). These movements, which could result in winter population declines among birds near the northern limits of their winter ranges, might easily be mistaken for mor- tality and therefore overlooked. For instance, many species accounts in regional ornithological summaries (e.g.. Bull 1964, Beardslee and Mitchell 1965, Veit and Petersen 1993, Levine 1998, Walsh et al. 1999) ascribe mid-winter diminution to mortality with little or no supporting evidence — even as they occasionally acknowledge the equally undocu- mented possibility of facultative withdrawals. Southern New England is at or close to the northern limits of the nor- mal winter distributions for many species of medium- and long-dis- tance migrants (National Geographic Society 1999). Annual variation in the numbers of such species have long been of interest to ornitholo- gists and birders in the region, and questions regarding their true winter status — particularly the desire to distinguish between post-migratory movements and mortality as agents of winter population changes — were the focus of Mitra and Raithel’s (2001) analysis of population trends among Iandbirds wintering on B. I. Curiously, that study revealed that mid-winter declines among sever- al “half-hardy” species on B. I. were no greater than those of several more numerous and characteristic wintering species. Furthermore, compar- isons with other C.B.C.s across North America revealed unexpectedly high absolute winter densities of several half-hardy Iandbirds on B. I. and in other coastal thickets in southern New England (Mitra 2002). One possible explanation for these surprising patterns is that coastal populations of half-hardy species might be augmented under some cir- cumstances by individuals dispersing from the New England interior, long after normal southbound migration has ceased. The present paper represents an effort to derive predictions concerning patterns of post- migratory dispersal from Mitra and Raithel’s (2001) results and to test these predictions with data gathered on B. I. during the winter of 2000- 2001. Methods C.B.C.-style counts were conducted on Block Island on 13 November 2000, 21 December 2000, and 19 February 2001 (100 observers, cf Acknowledgments). Although all species of birds were counted, the present analysis focuses on a subset of the landbird species — namely, those passerines that characteristically inhabit thickets during the winter (see Table 1). All raw counts were adjusted for effort by dividing them by the total number of party-miles on foot (foot-miles) employed on the count in question (36.5, 29, and 42 foot-miles in November, December, and February, respectively). Standardized densities and population trends from November to December and from December to February were calculated for each species by dividing effort-adjusted densities for November and February by the December density value. As described in detail in Mitra and Raithel (2001), B. I.’s geographical setting facilitates the study of Iandbirds’ winter population dynamics in several ways. The absence or near-absence of breeding populations for many species enhances detection of individuals arriving via migration or Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 499 Table 1. Winter densities of thicket-dwelling landbirds on Block Island, Rhode Island (2000-2001). Species Raw Counts Densities Std. Dens. Stat^ Traj^ (inds. /foot-mile) (prop. December dens.) Nov Dec Feb Nov Dec Feb Nov Feb Black-capped Chickadee 106 117 120 2.90 4.03 2.86 0.72 0.71 WR A Carolina Wren 173 140 108 4.74 4.83 2.57 0.98 0.53 WR B Winter Wren 2 4 0 0.05 0.14 0.00 0.40 0.00 HH A Marsh Wren 1 2 0 0.03 0.07 0.00 0.40 0.00 H A Golden-crowned Kinglet 35 23 0 0.96 0.79 0.00 1.21 0.00 LMN B Ruby-crowned Kinglet 11 6 1 030 0.21 .02 1.46 0.12 LMS D Hermit Thrush 31 80 24 0.85 2.76 0.57 0.31 0.21 HH A Gray Catbird 40 38 19 1.10 1.31 0.45 0.84 0.35 HH B Northern Mockingbird 39 30 28 1.07 1.03 0.67 1.03 0.64 WR B Brown Thrasher 9 4 2 0.25 0.14 0.05 1.79 0.35 HH D Orange-crowned Warbler 0 2 0 0.00 0.07 0.00 0.00 0.00 HH A Yellow-rumped Warbler 726 865 787 19.9 29.8 18.7 0.67 0.63 WR A Pine Warbler 6 0 0 0.16 0.00 0.00 NA NA LM D Palm Warbler 32 2 0 0.88 0.07 0.00 12.7 0.00 LM D Common Yellowthroat 2 3 0 0.05 0.10 0.00 0.53 0.00 HH A Yellow-breasted Chat 1 1 0 0.03 0.03 0.00 0.79 0.00 HH A Eastern Towhee 21 29 8 0.58 1.00 0.19 0.58 0.19 HH A American Tree Sparrow 4 1 1 0.11 0.03 0.02 3.18 0.69 W D Chipping Sparrow 29 0 0 0.79 0.00 0.00 NA NA LM D Field Sparrow 2 1 0 0.05 0.03 0.00 1.59 0.00 WR D Fox Sparrow 4 18 10 0.11 0.62 0.24 0.18 0.38 HH A Song Sparrow 434 377 232 11.9 13.0 5.52 0.91 0.42 WR B Swamp Sparrow 36 15 12 0.99 0.52 0.29 1.91 0.55 HH D White-throated Sparrow 577 514 361 15.8 17.7 8.60 0.89 0.48 WR B White-crowned Sparrow 1 1 0 0.03 0.03 0.00 0.79 0.00 HH A Dark-eyed Junco 231 91 39 6.33 3.14 0.93 2.02 0.30 LMN D Northern Cardinal 57 76 72 1.56 2.62 1.71 0.60 0.65 WR A Purple Finch 6 0 0 0.16 0.00 0.00 NA NA LMN D House Finch 56 50 85 1.53 1.72 2.02 0.89 1.17 WR C American Goldfinch 32 22 13 0.88 0.76 0.31 1.16 0.41 LMN B ^ Winter status on Block Island; see text for explanation of codes. ^ Population trajectory 2000-2001; see text for explanation of codes. dispersal. The eight-mile water barrier is large enough to inhibit sto- chastic density changes arising from local movements, but it is small enough for most species to cross via directed movements. Finally, its location south of the New England mainland, its maritime climate, and its dense thickets rich in fruiting shrubs — e.g., Bayberry {Myrica pensyl- vanica), Chokeberry {Aronia arbutifolia), Winterberry (Ilex verticillata), and roses (Rosa spp.) — appear to present an attractive refuge to species only marginally adapted to the winter environment of the New England interior. Counts of Carolina Wrens on B. I. provide a useful standard of com- parison for other species, as this species is abundant and widespread throughout the island; it is extremely sedentary, so that changes in its density outside of the breeding season are unlikely to reflect any factor other than mortality; and it is known to be relatively intolerant of severe winter weather in the region (Veit and Petersen 1993, R. Ferren in litt.). We used these properties and the species’ observed density trajectory during the winter of 2000-2001 (stasis November- December followed by decrease December-February) to conclude that this winter was not particularly severe for the species (had it been so, Carolina Wren densi- ty should have decreased November-December). Definitions of population trajectories Changes in density of >25% between successive counts were considered qualitatively meaningful, whereas those <25% were considered to reflect 500 North American Birds relative stasis. Twenty-four species of thicket-dwelling birds exhibited four qualitative types of trajectories on B. 1. over the period November- December- February 2000-2001: increase/decrease (A), stasis/decrease (B), stasis/stasis (C), and decrease/decrease (D). For simplicity, species occurring in moderate numbers (>5 individuals) in November, but completely absent thereafter, were regarded as showing a Type D Trajectory. Classification of species by winter status on B. I. Winter status categories on B. I. were derived in part from those inferred by Mitra and Raithel (2001), and in part to facilitate testing of predic- tions concerning winter population trajectories. Each species was assigned to one of the following categories: late migrant, normally win- tering south of southern New England (LMS); late migrant, normally wintering in southern New England (LMN); half-hardy winter resident likely to have completed southbound migration by mid-November (HH); characteristic winter resident, including sedentary species and migratory species likely to have completed southbound migration by mid-November (WR). Although Orange-crowned Warbler and Common Yellowthroat were previously identified as likely late migrants/lingerers (Mitra and Raithel 2001), both popular perception and an increasing body of local data (Mitra, unpubl. banding data) support the notion that Orange-crowned Warbler and Common Yellowthroat are half-hardy wintering species rather than late migrants in southern New England. The LMN catego- ry is intended to accommodate such winter residents as Golden- crowned Kinglet, American Tree Sparrow, Dark-eyed (Slate-colored) Junco, and American Goldfinch, whose normal southbound migrations in our region continue through November (Veit and Petersen 1993). Predictions Based on a priori considerations, previous results (Mitra and Raithel 2001, Mitra 2002), and the Carolina Wren data, the following predic- tions were tested: 1) Trajectory A (increase/decrease) reflects arrival of numerous individ- uals between mid-November and mid-December, either by stereotyped migration or by facultative dispersal. If the former can be excluded, this trajectory is strongly indicative of the latter. We reasoned that even the latest migrants in our area (among the thicket-dweUing species under consideration) were likely to have peaked by 13 November, and that the type A trajectory was more likely a consequence of facultative move- ments. Therefore, we predicted that, in a mild or normal season, such as 2000-200 1 , Type A was more likely to characterize half-hardy winter res- j idents (HH) than late migrants (LMS, LMN) or hardier winter residents I (WR). j 2) Trajectory B (stasis/decrease) is generally equivocal with regard to j post-migratory movements. For most species (especially in mOd or nor- mal winters, such as 2000-2001), it probably reflects genuine stasis (no significant immigration, emigration, or mortality) November- December, followed by mortality and/or post-migratory withdrawal December-February. Thus we predicted it would characterize B. I.’s , most numerous and characteristic winter residents — both migratory and sedentary (WR). 3) Trajectory C (stasis/stasis) is generally equivocal with respect to post- migratory movements, but in mild or normal seasons such as 2000- I 2001, this trajectory was predicted to characterize B. I.’s hardiest winter residents (WR). , 4) Trajectory D (decrease/decrease) is generally equivocal with respect to post-migratory movements. In general, this would appear to be the most likely trajectory for late migrants bound for wintering areas well to ’ the south of B. 1. (LMS). Such species might still be present in moder- ate to large numbers during November but are expected to decrease abruptly thereafter (even to the point of complete absence by December — e.g.. Chipping Sparrow). Late migrants wintering farther north (LMN) are also likely to occur in large numbers on B. I. during November (as passage migrants and winter residents). These might be expected to occur in somewhat smaller numbers thereafter, following the departure of passage migrants. Given this, and the fact that virtual- ly all species tend to decline on B. 1. from December to February (Mitra and Raithel 2001), LMN species were also predicted to exhibit type D trajectories. Results Perhaps the most striking trend on the B. 1. winter counts of 2000-2001 was the abundance of half-hardies during the December C.B.C. (Table Figure 1. Standardized winter population trends (2000-2001) for nine half- hardy species suspected of undertaking facultative movements to Block Island November-December. The first three species are Eastern Towhee (EATO), Hermit Thrush (HETH), and Fox Sparrow (FOSP). The “6 spp.” refers to pooled trends for Winter Wren, Marsh Wren, Orange-crowned Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Yellow-breasted Chat, and White-crowned Sparrow. 1 ). Densities of Hermit Thrush, Gray Catbird, and Eastern Towhee were among the highest for all of North American C.B.C.s (Mitra 2002). Among half-hardy species, December densities consistently exceeded their respective November values, implying that many individuals of these species, which by definition generally winter south of southern New England, arrived on B. 1. between November and December. Without exception, all species increasing November-December decreased December-Eebruary (Type A; see Fig. 1). Several of the most numerous and characteristic winter residents of B. I.’s thickets (e.g., Carolina Wren, Northern Mockingbird, Song Sparrow, and White-throated Sparrow) showed stable densities (or perhaps slight increases, in the cases of the two sparrows) from November-December, followed by ca. 50% decreases from December-February (Type B; see Fig. 2). The only species showing a Type C trajectory was, as predicted, a very hardy species: House Finch. In view of historical patterns of occurrence (Conway 1992) and pre- vious results (Mitra and Raithel 2001), two birds detected 2000-2001 stand out as seasonal vagrants: Yellow-throated Warbler and Baltimore Oriole on the November count. These were not classified by trajectory or winter status. As predicted, really late migrants tended to exhibit type D, rather than type A, trajectories: Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Palm Warbler, Pine Warbler, and Chipping Sparrow (LMS); and American Tree Sparrow, Dark-eyed Junco, and Purple Finch (LMN). Species classified Volume 5 5 ( 2 0 0 1 ), Number 4 501 Figure 2. Standardized winter population trends (2000-2001) for Northern Mockingbird (NOMO), Carolina Wren (CARW), Song Sparrow (SOSP), and White-throated Sparrow (WTSP), landbirds regarded as typical winter resi- dents on Block Island. as LMS were invariably recorded in moderate to large numbers in November and were absent (or nearly so) by February — or even by December. Purple Finch, although regular in mid-winter on the main- land, resembled these species in its occurrence on B. I. Trajectories of the two other species classified as LMN (Golden-crowned Kinglet and American Goldfinch) were technically type B by virtue of slightly small- er declines November-December (21% and 16%, respectively), but oth- erwise qualitatively resembled the predicted type D trajectories of other late migrants. Discussion In general, results supported predictions very closely. This concordance is especially meaningful given the vagaries of sampling error, the coarse- ness of our definition of stasis (up to 25% change between counts), and some inevitable arbitrariness in our classification of various species as late migrants, half-hardies, and the like. Systematic detection biases were unlikely to have produced this concordance spuriously because we pre- dicted— and observed — increases for some species and decreases for others on the same days, under the same circumstances of weather, effort, skill, and technique. Although some might question the study’s inclusion of certain species (e.g.. Marsh Wren, Winter Wren, Orange- crowned Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Yellow-breasted Chat, and White-crowned Sparrow) whose very small sample sizes were vulnerable to accidents of sampling, collectively such species provided useful qual- itative information that would have been lost had they been ignored or obscured had they been pooled together a priori. Furthermore, trajectories other than A-D were perfectly possible, and the fact that they were not observed during the winter of 2000-2001 deserves mention. For instance, trends such as [increase/increase], [increase/stasis], or [stasis/increase] — none of which characterized any of the species under consideration in 2000-2001 — might be more likely during particularly severe winters among hardy species, such as Song and White-throated Sparrows, if these were able to make successive post- migratory movements to escape deteriorating conditions in the New England interior. In interpreting these results, it is important to draw a distinction between those representing rigorous deductive inference and those rep- resenting an extension and refinement of the descriptive explorations of Mitra and Raithel (2001). In the first category, the coincident, large- scale increases observed November-December across a dozen species of thicket-dwelling landbirds — and their predicted correlation with New England half-hardiness — represent real evidence of post- migratory dis- persal by these species over a considerable water barrier. With the pos- sible exception of Fox Sparrow, none of these species is expected to be continuing stereotyped migration after 13 November on any kind of scale adequate to produce the increased densities we observed. Likewise, the preponderance of type D trajectories among really late migrants, including the near-absence of category LMS by December, strongly implies that, at least for thicket-dwelling landbirds, birds detected on northeastern North American C.B.C.s are more likely attempting to winter than actually migrating. In the second category, the details of the classification of various species in Table 2 — and the degree to which these details matched our predictions — ought not to be interpreted dog- matically but rather should be refined a posteriori to reflect more accu- rately the local situation on Block Island. For instance. Gray Gatbird could be regarded as an expected winter resident on B. I. on the basis of previously published results — in which case, it would have fallen in line with predictions in 2000-2001. Alternatively, even considered as a half-hardy species, it came close to meeting our criterion for a Type A trajectory (as predicted) but fell just short because its increase from November-December (19%) was not quite large enough. Similarly, the decreases November-December of both Golden-crowned Kinglet and American Goldfinch fell just a few points short of 25% and the predicted type D trajectory. One surprising result is particularly interesting in view of previous results: Northern Cardinal’s increase in density from November- December. This assumedly relatively sedentary species might appear unlikely to move in large numbers across miles of water during late fall/early winter — but such a pattern was precisely what we inferred in Jun Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Mar Apr May Figure 3. Seasonal occurrence of Northern Cardinals at Napatree Point, Rhode Island, 1982-2001 (weekly means of daily counts). several previous seasons (Mitra and Raithel 2001), and it was supported again by this year’s (2000) data. Furthermore, Raithel’s (unpubl.) systematic observations (1982-present) at Napatree Pt. (a barrier beach on the Rhode Island mainland, where Northern Cardinals do not breed) clearly show secondary fall peaks November-January, several weeks after the primary peak of coastal movement around 1 November (Fig. 3). The timing of these secondary peaks varies from year to year, obscuring the mode in the pooled sample, but such modes are evident in most individual years. The results of the present study underscore several important conclu- sions concerning the status of landbird species wintering in northeastern 502 North American Birds Table 2. Population trajectories of thicket-dwelling landbirds on Block Island 2060-2001 , classified by their winter status there (IVlitra and Raithel 2001). Boldfaced type indicates agreement between predicted and observed status categories for each observed trajectory. Species classification Trajectories, with predicted species compositions in 2000-2001 A (incr./decn) B (stas./decr.) C (stas./stas.) D (decr./decr.) Pred.; HH Pred,: WR Pred.: WR Pred.: LMS, LMN Late migrants Ruby-crowned Kinglet wintering south of Palm Warbler New England Pine Warbler (LMS) Chipping Sparrow Late migrants win- Golden-crowned Kinglet American Tree Sparrow tering New England American Goldfinch Dark-eyed Junco (LMN) Purple Finch Half-hardies Winter Wren Gray Catbird^ Brown Thrasher (HH) Marsh Wren Hermit Thrush Swamp Sparrow Orange-crowned Warbler Common Yeliowthroat Yellow-breasted Chat Eastern Towhee Fox Sparrow White-crowned Sparrow Winter Residents Black-capped Chickdee Carolina Wren House Finch Field Sparrow (WR) Yellow-rumped Warbler Northern Mockingbird Northern Cardinal White-throated Sparrow Song Sparrow ^ Species could be regarded as WR on B. I., which would strengthen agreement of results with predictions. North America. Most importantly, it is clear that the presence of such species as Hermit Thrush, Gray Catbird, Brown Thrasher, and Eastern Towhee on New England C.B.C.s is in no way an indication that the C.B.C.’s early winter timing exposes it to “lingering migrants.” Indeed, application of our simple methodology should easily distinguish between actual late migrant species and what might be termed “true” half-hardy wintering species in any given region. This result is impor- i tant not only because it supports the notion of a natural distinction I between these two classes of unusual C.B.C. birds but also because it I further mitigates concerns that the C.B.C.’s early timing compromises I its value as a barometer of mid- win ter bird populations (Peterjohn j 2000). Furthermore, the evidence presented here in support of faculta- i tive winter movements — of half-hardies in particular, but of other j species as well — implies that such movements must be considered a likely alternative to mortality as the cause of mid-late winter population decreases among some landbird species. i Acknowledgments ' We thank those who participated on the 2000-2001 winter counts: S. j Comings, N. Eaton, R. Emerson, R. Enser, R. Farrell, D. Finizia, K. I Gaffet, P. Lindsay, S. Mitra, C. Nunes, C. Raithel, J. St. Jean, A. I Thorndike, and 87 students from the Block Island school. Literature cited Beardslee, C. S., and H. D. Mitchell. 1965. Birds of the Niagara Frontier j Region. Vol. 22, Bulletin of the Buffalo Society of Natural Sciences, Buffalo. Bull, J. 1964. Birds of the New York Area. Harper and Row, New York. Conway, R. A. 1992. Field-checklist of Rhode Island birds, 2nd Ed. Bulletin no. 1, Rhode Island Ornithological Club, Providence. Gauthreaux, S. A., Jr. 1982. The ecology and evolution of avian migra- tion systems, pp. 93-168. In D. S. Earner, J. R. King, and K. C. Parkes [eds.]. Avian biology. Vol. 6. Academic Press, New York. Levine, E., ed. 1998. Bull’s birds of New York Cornell University Press, Ithaca. Mitra, S. S. 2002. Unexpected centers of winter landbird density during the 101st C.B.C. Bird Observer (in press). Mitra, S. S. and C. J. Raithel. 2001. Seasonal trends in species richness and density among landbirds wintering on Block Island, Rhode Island. North American Birds 55: 7-12. National Geographic Society. 1999. Field guide to the birds of North America. National Geographic Society, Washington, D.C. Niles, D. M., S. A. Rohwer, J. A. Jackson, and J. D. Robins. 1969. An obser- vation of midwinter nocturnal movement and tower mortality of [American] Tree Sparrows. Bird-Banding 40: 322-323. Peterjohn, B. 2000. Reflections on the historic, current, and future analy- ses of Christmas Bird Count data. American Birds (One-hundredth Christmas Bird Count): 19-23. TerrOl, S. B. and R. L. Crawford. 1988. Additional evidence of nocturnal migration by Yellow-rumped Warblers in winter. Condor 90: 261-263. Veit, R. R. and W. R. Petersen. 1993. Birds of Massachusetts. Massachusetts Audubon Society, Lincoln. Walsh,J.,V. Elia, R. Kane, and T.Halliwell. 1999. Birds of New Jersey. New Jersey Audubon Society, Bernardsville. — Received 10 November 2001, accepted 4 January 2002. Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 503 To learn more, visit us on the Web WWW. tpwd. State, tx.us/gtbc or call 1*888-TX‘BIROS 20 APRIL 2002 28 Enjoy Texas hospitality and over 700 miles of the country's best birding. BIRDING TOURS TEXAS COAST MIGRATION SPECTACLE April 13-19 and April 20-26 GALAPAGOS April 16-26; June 24-July 4; and July 23-August 2 BIG BEND, THE DAVIS MOUNTAINS & HILL COUNTRY April 26-May 5 and May 3-12 SOUTHEAST ARIZONA May 11-21 More Than 100 Departures Worldwide Call for details or visit our web site CHURCHILL & SOUTHERN MANITOBA May 30-June 11 and June 1-13 FINLAND & ARCTIC NORWAY June 1-17 ALASKA June 2-11 and June 10-20 June 9-18 and June 17-27 ALTA FLORESTA & THE PANTANAL, BRAZIL June 8-22 800-728-4953 9433 BEE CAVE ROAD BUILDING 1, SUITE 150 AUSTIN, TX 78733 www.fieldguides.com fieldguides @ fieldguides.com Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation (Required by 39 U.S.C. 3685) 1 . Publication Title: North American Birds 2. Publication No: 1525-3708 3. Filing Date: 11/27/01 4. Issue Frequency: Quarterly 5. No of Issues Published Annually: 4 6. Annual Subscription Price: $30 7. Complete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication; P.O. 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Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation 98% (15c. /15g. X 100) 98% 16. This Statement of Ownership will be printed in the Vol 55:4 issue of this publication. 17. Signature and Title of Editor, Publisher, Business Manager, or Owner: Paul Green, Executive Director, 27 November, 2001 , 1 certify that all information furnished on this form is true and complete. I understand that anyone who furnishes false or mis- leading information requested on the form or who omits material or information requested on the form may be subject to criminal sanctions (including fines and imprisonment) and/or civil sanctions (including civil penalties). 504 North American Birds Pictorial Highlights This Curlew Sandpiper delighted many observers at Whitewater Lake, Manitoba between 2 and 7 June, while frustrating a few Manitoba birders “stranded” at Churchill for the week! Photograph by Dennis Fast. This dapper Brown-headed Nuthatch was present from 1 1 July through 1 5 September at Illinois Beach State Park, the same site occupied by last year’s unbelievable Red-cockaded Woodpecker! The nuthatch provided Illinois’s first confirmed record. Photograph by David B. Johnson. Completely unexpected this summer was the discovery of nesting Boreal Owls in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. This image of a juvenile bird was captured 4 August 2001 near the summit of Mount Pierce. Other northern owls (Northern Hawk Owl and Great Gray Owl) also nested well south of typical range in other regions, following a remarkable winter inva- sion of ail three species. Photograph by Steve Mirick One of two birds present, this somewhat ragged Cave Swallow at Cheyenne Bottoms, Barton County, Kansas raises prospects that they may be breeding in the Region. The cinnamon auriculars (not dark, as in juve- nile Cliff Swallow), pattern of face/cap and early wing molt indicate Cave Swallow. Photograph by Ted Cabie. Volume 55 (2001), Number 4 505 The second documented record for North Dakota, this male Yellow-throated Warbler was photographed 8 June 2001 in the Ponderosa Pine Area of Slope County in the southwestern corner of the state. Photograph by Jack Leflor. The second Elegant Tern in New Mexico was found at Farmington 18 July 2001 , just two months after the state’s first record. Photograph by T Reeves. This juvenile Short-tailed Albatross was photographed 24 March 2001 at Perpetua Bank, off Newport, Oregon. This record constitutes the state’s third but first photographically documented. Photograph by Timothy Shelmerdine. This adult Red-billed Tropicbird was one of 15 to 20 seen off China Point on San Clemente Island on 29 July 2001 . Photograph by Brian Sullivan. 506 North American B i r h s Pictorial Highlights This Shy Albatross photographed over Bodega Canyon, Marin on 27 July 2001 may be the same individual, or one of the same individuals, involved in multiple sightings in the same waters in 2000, but this has yet to be deter- mined. Amazingly, this is the third year in a row In which this species has occurred in California waters. Photograph by Dan W. Nelson. A Pomarine Jaeger at Lubbock on the first of July 2001 represents the first record of this species for the High Plains of Texas. Are Pomarine Jaegers the most likely summer jaeger in the continent’s interior? Read the “Changing Seasons” essay for thoughts on jaegers and more. Photograph by John Brunjes. This digiscoped image taken on 20 July nicely documents Colorado’s first Black Skimmer from Jet Lake, Kiowa County, which remained 19-21 July. The species was also found as a vagrant in New Mexico this summer. Photograph by Chris Wood. One of up to seven immature Black-legged Kittiwakes near San Jose del Cabo 4-8 July 2001 . Even one kittiwake in Mexico would seem a good find, but seven in summer is extraordinary! Photograph by Alvaro Jaramillo. Volume 55, Number 4 507 The yumanensis subspecies of the Clapper Rail is a taxon federally listed as Endangered; its status in Nevada was virtually unknown until the late 1 990s. In recent years, however, this furtive denizen of emergent wetlands has been documented as a breeder at various sites in the Colorado River drainage above Lake Mead. This bird was photographed at Overton Wildlife Management Area. Photograph by Jack Walters. With only about 14 previous Northern Hawk Owl sightings in Idaho, the report of a hawk owl found by Earl Chapin on 7 July 2001 at Snow Lake — a remote cirque lake in the Selkirk Mountains of Boundary County — was truly exciting. News of this find enticed Pocatello birder Marty Collar to make the long trip north to Snow Lake, where he then discovered Idaho’s first nesting pair of Northern Hawk Owls with two small nestlings on 1 2-1 4 July. This image of fledgling was taken 18 July. Photograph by Larry Barnes. One of four Chestnut-sided Warblers reported at the end of spring and early summer in the Yukon/British Columbia Region, this individual fur- nished the first record for the Sunshine Coast; it was present 1 6 June to 1 July. Photograph by Chris Charlesworth. The shorebird highlight of the summer in California was this alternate- plumaged Red-necked Stint at Moss Landing, Monterey County pho- tographed on 14 July. Photograph by John Sorensen. This Northern Beardless-Tyrannulet photographed at Cibolo Creek Ranch on 1 9 July 2001 was a first for West Texas and well away from its normal haunts of the Lower Rio Grande Valley in that state. It was so far out of range, in fact, that observers wondered whether it might not have strayed from western Mexican populations. Photograph by Barry Zimmer. This fledgling Northern Wheatear was one of a brood of six raised at Cape Pine, Newfoundland. This location is 700 km south of the southern breed- ing limit at Black Tickle, Labrador. Photograph by Bruce Mactavish. 508 North American Birds Swift 830 Viceroy 1 ox, 42 - 22 oz, Armored, Waterproof, Click-stop adjusting. Close focus 6.0 ft. Founded in 1926, Swift Instruments inc. has sponsored* adventures in birding on many fronts. After extensive research with ornitholo- gists on the ideal characteristics needed for bird watching, Swift pioneered binoculars for birders with their Swift Audubon 8.5X,44 in 1960, This tradition has been expanded to create ideal optics for birders of all ages. 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