QL 671 .A916 BIRD fc'jkV#, * American Birding’ A QUARTERLY JOURNAL OF ORNITHOLOGICAL RECORD PUBLISHED BY THE AMERICAN BIRDING ASSOCIATION - Field trips ' " ^ - Workshops • Evening programs Target species include Black Rosy-Finches, Chukar, Jhree-toed Woodpecker, Burrowing Owl, and more! www.aba.org/mtgs/2008snowbird Amer ican B i rd i n g® ASSOCIA I ION Representing the first verified American Birding Association Area record was this Log- gerhead Kingbird at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park, Key West, Florida 8-27 March 2007. Its blackish cap and nape contrasting with grayish back, bold crest, prominent white- edged wing coverts and tertials, and white underparts indicate that this individual was one of three subspecies: from the Cuban mainland, the Island of Youth, or Grand Cayman Island. Photograph by Carl Goodrich. c,vJ\\THSOA/4^ DEC 08 2016 Contents Spring Migration: March through May 2007 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS • AMERICAN BIRDING ASSOCIATION • VOLUME 61 • NUMBER 3 • 2 0 0 7 'i 7 ■i f 372 The Changing Seasons: Signs? Edward S. Brinkley 378 Current range of the eastern popula- tion of Painted Bunting (Passerina ciris) — Part 11: Winter range Paul W. Sykes, Jr., Stephen Hoizman, and Eduardo E. Ihigo-Elias 533 Pictorial Highlights The Regional Reports 408 Atlantic Canada Brian E. Dalzell 411 CJuebec Pierre Bannon, Olivier Barden, Normand David, Samuel Denault, and Yves Aubry 437 Eastern Highlands & Upper Ohio River Valley Victor W. Fazio, III, and Rick Wiltraut 442 Illinois & Indiana James Hengeveld, Keith A. McMullen, and Geoffrey A. Williamson 446 Western Great Lakes Adam M. Byrne 448 Iowa & Missouri Stephen J. Dinsmore 452 Tennessee & Kentucky Chris Sloan and Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. 456 Alabama & Mississippi Steven W. McConnell 459 Arkansas & Louisiana Steven W. Cardiff 412 New England Simon Perkins 463 Northern Canada Cameron D. Eckert 418 Hudson-Delaware Richard R. Veit, Robert 0. Paxton, and Frank Rohrbacher 423 Middle Atlantic Todd M. Day and Edward S. Brinkley 426 Southern Atlantic Ricky Davis 430 Elorida Bill Pranty 465 Prairie Provinces Rudolf F. Koes and Peter Taylor 467 Northern Great Plains Ron Martin 468 Southern Great Plains W. Ross Sikock and Joseph A. Grzybowski 473 Texas Mark W. Lockwood, Eric Carpenter, and Willie Sekula 484 Great Basin Rick Fridell 487 New Mexico Sartor 0. Williams, Hi 492 Arizona Mark M. Stevenson and Gary H. Rosenberg 495 Alaska ThedeTobish 497 British Columbia Donald G. Cecile 499 Oregon & Washington Steven MIodinow, David Irons, and Bill Tweit 504 Northern California Scott B. Terrill, Michael M. Rogers, Steven A. Glover, and Ed Pandolfino 510 Southern California Guy McCaskie and Kimball L. Garrett 515 Baja California Peninsula Richard A. Erickson, Mark J. Billings, Roberto Carmona, and Gorgonio Ruiz-Campos 517 Mexico Hector Gomez de Silva 521 Central America H. Lee Jones and Oliver Komar 526 West Indies & Bermuda Anthony White, Robert L. Norton, and Andrew Dobson 435 Ontario Matthew L. Holder 478 Colorado & Wyoming Tony Leukering, Lawrence S. Semo, and Bill Schmoker 529 Hawaiian Islands Robert L. Pyle and Peter Donaldson Idaho & Western Montana David Trochlell Masked Ducks. Photograph by Gkttt) Perrigo. See page 473. American Birding® ASSOCIA TION CHAIR Father Tom Pincelli BOARD Of DIRECTORS Jane Alexander Dick Ashford Charles Bell David M. Bird Paul Bristow Donnie Dann John C. Kricher Bernard Master Harry Tow Simon Walker Boh Warneke Anthony W. White Erika Wilson PRESIDENTS CEO Richard H. Payne SECRETARY OF THE ABA Carol Wallace FINANCE Christine James Debbie Linster BIRDERS' EXCHANGE Elissa La Voie Betty Petersen CONVENTIONS AND CONFERENCES Tamie Bulow Chip Clouse Brenda Gibb EDUCATION Lori Fujimoto MEMBERSHIP Rich Downing LeAnn Pilger CONSERVATION Betty Petersen GENERAL COUNSEL Daniel T. Williams, Jr. PAST PRESIDENTS Richard H. Payne (1999-2006) 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) PAST JOURNAL EDITORS John W. Aldrich (1947-1951) Chandler S. Robbins (1951-1954) Editorial Board, including Robbins, Ludlow Griscom, Allan Cruicksbank (1954-1967) Richard L. Plunkett (1967-1970) Robert S. Arbib, Jr. (1970-1983) John Farrand, Jr. (1984-1985) Susan Roney Drennan (1985-1996) Kenn Kaufman (1997-1998) Michael A. Patten (1999-2000) 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 wel- come submission of papers in these areas; papers and other communication should be sent to North American Birds, 106 Monroe Avenue, Cape Charles, VA 23310. For correspon- dence on photographic material, contact the Photo Editor at the email address below. PUBLISHER DIRECTOR OF PUBLICATIONS American Birding Association Bryan Patrick PUBLICATIONS CHAIR John C. Kricher EDITOR Edward S. Brinkley (ensifera@aol.com) ASSOCIATE EDITORS Louis R. Bevier P A. Buckley Stephen J. Dinsmore Alvaro Jaramillo Paul E. Lehman Bill Pranty Alan Wormington PHOTO EDITOR Brian Sullivan (heraldpetrel@gmail.com) REGIONAL EDITORS Bruce H. Anderson, Yves Aubry, Margaret J. C. Bain, Pierre Bannon, Olivier Barden, Adam M. Byrne, Roberto Carmona, Steven W. Cardiff, Eric Carpenter, Robert 1. Cecil, Donald G. Cecile, C. Dwight Cooley, Brian Dalzell, Normand David, Ricky Davis, Todd M. Day, Samuel Denault, James J. Dinsmore, Andrew Dobson, Peter Donaldson, Cameron D. Eckert, Bill Eddleman, David H. Elder, Walter G. Ellison, Richard A. Erickson, Victor W. Eazio 111, Rick Eridell, Kimball L. Garrett, Steven A. Glover, Htetor Gomez de Silva, Joseph A. Grzybowski, Robert A. Hamilton, James Hengeveld, Pam Hunt, David Irons, Greg D. Jackson, H. Lee Jones, Rudolf E Koes, Oliver Komar, Tony Leukering, Mark Lockwood, Bruce Mactavish, Blake A. Mann, Nancy L. Martin, Ron E. Martin, Blake Maybank, Guy McCaskie, Steve McConnell, Keith A. McMullen, Steven G. Mlodinow, Robert L. Norton, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., Edward Pandolfmo, Robert O. Paxton, Simon Perkins, Wayne R. Petersen, Randy Pinkston, Bill Pranty, Robert D. Purrington, Robert L. Pyle, Michael M. Rogers, Prank Rohrbacher, Gary H. Rosenberg, Gorgonio Ruiz-Campos, Willie Sekula, Larry Semo, W. Ross Silcock, Chris Sloan, Mark M. Stevenson, Peder Svingen, Peter Taylor, Scott B. Terrill, Thede Tobish, David Trochlell, Bill Tweit, Richard R. Veit, Ron Weeks, Anthony W. White, Sartor O. Williams 111, Geoffrey A. Williamson, Rick Wiltraut SUBSCRIPTIONS GRAPHIC DESIGN ADVERTISING LeAnn Pilger Jim Harris Ken Barron Ed Rother North American Birds (ISSN 1525-3708) (USPS 872-200) is published quarterly by the American Birding Associa- tion, Inc. 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, 4945 N. 30th Street, Suite 200, Colorado Springs, CO 80919-3151; (800) 850-2473. Subscription prices: $30/year (US) and US$35/year (Canada). Copyright © 2007 by the American Birding Association, Inc., all rights reserved. Printed by Publishers Printing, Shepherdsville, Kentucky. The views and opinions expressed in this magazine arc those of each con- tributing 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 arc being offered directly by the Association. GST Registration No. R135943454. 370 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS Remote. Wild. Unbelievable •Home to 1,000,000 Fur Seals •Spectacular Seabird Colonies •Arctic Fox and Reindeer •Brilliant Showcase of Wildflowers •Historic Russian Church Looking for a Birding Adventure? Go offshore with Seabirding For more information contact Brian Patteson Seabirding P.O. Box 772 Hatteras NC 27943 (252)986-1363 http://www.seabirding.com • Pelagic trips since 1986 • Departures from Virginia Beach, VA Oregon Inlet, NC Hatteras, NC aboard the best & fastest boats available • Friendly knowledgeable leaders with extensive offshore experience • Chum for bringing the birds close • Winter trips for Great Skua andalcids • Spring & summer trips for Gulf Stream specialties including rare Pterodromos and tropicbirds • Late summer trips for White-faced Storm-Petrel Celebrating Birds, Butterflies and Wildflowers ::TOUR SAMPLER: ::Birdin3 Tours:: All-Inclusive, Intensive birding experiences ::Birding Vacations:: Birding tours with more relaxed itineraries ::Birding Weeks:: Week-long explorations of notable locations ::Birding Weekends:: HH Short trips for hard to find species:: ::Birds & Blossoms/Butterflies/Tlistory:: Dual interest treks to exceptional destinations VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 371 I The Changing Seasons; I Signs? EDWARD S. BRINKLEY • 106 MONROE AVENUE • CAPE CHARLES, VIRGINIA 23310 • (EMAIL: ENSIFERA@AOL.COM) ' *. . # This American Woodcock chick was one of three young observed with an adult in Pittsylyania County, Virginia 25 March 2007, while the photographer was off the beaten birding track, looking for orchids. Young of this retiring species are seldom observed and even more rarely documented. Photograph by Larry Lynch. I have a marvelous coworker who is fond of saying, on unusually warm winter days or as hurricanes rake the coast, “Signs! The signs are all around us! The signs!” His reference is not to the 1970 Five Man Electrical Band hit song (“Long-haired freaky people need not apply...”) but quite openly to the Book of Revelations, that enig- matic text that appears to forecast the End of Days. 1 love his candor; his enthusiasm for the Apocalypse is almost infectious. The Changing Seasons has flirted with ref- erences to “strange times,” with titles like “Rome Burning” and subtitles such as “Drought, Fire, Plague, and a Penguin,” but the latest climate-change forecasts from scien- tists have begun to read more and more like Revelations: the sea ice will disappear in 2050, then 2030, and now... 2012? We read of mas- sive declines in penguin populations, of Ivory Gulls and Polar Bears rapidly losing prey base and habitat, and of lost Arctic seals wandering in tropical waters. The drumbeat seems inex- orably toward widespread extinctions, disap- pearing coastal wetlands (eventually disap- pearing coastal cities), and the disinterest and intransigence of nations. These stories, alas, are buried in so many of the mass media’s communications beneath tales of the latest ex- ploits of O. J. Simpson or Anna Nicole Smith. My coworker’s worldview has come to seem pedestrian, almost sanguine in our age, in which hard scientihc data have become like the prophetess Cassandra, accurate but widely ignored, or denied, or drowned out. However well scientists working in the po- lar regions may have identified clear causal links between carbon dioxide levels and ecosystem collapse, we birders in the temper- ate zones usually lack interpretive frame- works, much less evidentiary connections, for the many disparate phenomena we observe. True, we document a great many species of southerly breeding distribution expanding ^ ' 'gu ^ '■ . ■ ■ ■ . their ranges northward, a good many boreal or upland or montane species withdrawing northward or repairing to higher elevations, and very few species expanding their breed- ing ranges southward in the Northern Hemi- sphere. And true, we detect latitudinal va- grants with what appears to be increasing fre- quency. At least some of these shifts appear to be consistent with predictions about climate change. But are there other signs around us, away from the Arctic, that there are problems? After all, we read about “good numbers” of American Bitterns in many of this season’s re- gional reports, about rebounding counts of Rusty Blackbird in some areas, about bur- geoning goose numbers all around, and high and record-high counts of scores of species in dozens of regions — from Stilt Sandpiper to Blue Jay to Black Skimmer. Spring for birders is often a time of wonder and optimism, of reveling in the return of both short- and long- distance migrants. Amid our scramble to see as much as we can see, are we missing the signs? Is my coworker’s ear simply better at detecting the hoofbeats than my own? 372 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS THE CHANGING SEASONS: SIGNS? Figure 1 . These two Sooty Terns, both found 1 7 April 2007, were casualties of a hurricane-force storm; three others were also record- ed in New England as a result of this storm. One (bottom photograph) was found dead on a beach In Little Compton, Rhode Island; the other died shortly after it was discovered in moribund condition roughly 32 kilometers from the coast in Southington, Connecti- cut. Photographs by Geoff Dennis (lower image) and Bruce Finnan (top image). The Weather Taking a cue from Marshall Iliff and Derek Lovitch (2007), I would like to offer a rather brief synopsis of the continent’s weather pat- terns here, saving two juicy exceptions for separate sections, below. Weather, and cli- mate, are so heavily in the news of late, and the data on weather trends so readily available via the Internet, that our summaries here seem more and more a cumbersome after- thought. And we find ourselves repeating the mantra: hot and dry. To be sure, there were a few exceptional cold fronts, a mid-April coastal gale in the Atlantic, and deluges with- out end in the southern Great Plains. Conti- nentally, spring 2007 was the fifth warmest spring on record, according to the National Climatic Data Center in Asheville, North Car- olina. A strong frontal boundary brought dev- astating tornadoes to the middle of the Unit- ed States in early May, while in the Southeast, drought conditions worsened steadily (be- coming critical in the summer and fall months over many areas). Continued extreme dryness in May east of the Mississippi River and in the Far West expanded the drought area. The global land-surface temperature was the highest for the month of May, as well as for boreal spring. The combined global land- and ocean-surface temperature was fourth warmest on record for May, and 2007 tied with 1998 for the warmest January- through- May period in history. Ocean arrhythmias 1 had never seen the term “arrhythmia” ap- plied to fluctuations in ocean conditions (sea surface temperatures, food availability, etc.) — until I read the Oregon & Washington re- gional report, which is recommended read- ing. Apparently, another anomaly in the pat- terns of seawater upwelling, on which so much of the marine food chain is dependent, caused localized starvation among Rhinocer- os Auklets, Horned Puffins, and Tufted Puffins. Beach surveys in Oregon began find- ing corpses of these species in some numbers late in February, with a peak in late March, when hundreds of alcids, plus several Mottled Petrels, were found. Dead Horned Puffins were found as late as 22 May at the Tijuana River mouth in southern California. Live alcids, of course, were also detected. Over 50 Horned Puffins in northern Califor- nia (plus birds well into the summer season), 13 in Oregon (seven of these on a pelagic trip) through 1 April, three in British Columbia through 27 May, and one in Washington 3 April were all newsworthy. Researchers also made large counts of Parakeet Auklets off OregonAVashington, and seven were found 21 April off southern California, a red-letter bird and a high count for so far south. Thick- billed Murres played a minor role in this event, noted mostly in the Puget Trough (mostly in winter), with one seen from shore in British Columbia 20 May. Although the signs of trouble spanned thousands of kilometers, the number of birds actually tallied in this “event” was not terribly large and certainly not without precedent in the eastern North Pacific Ocean. Most of the birds were reported between Oregon and northern California. The human mind de- lights in making connections, in reading dis- parate bits of information as parts of a greater whole, with an underlying single cause. How- ever much we might want to connect these events to global climate change — and throw in the whole panoply of vagrant tubenoses, while we’re at it, e.g., another Ringed Storm- Petrel (Oregon), a few more Yellow-nosed Al- batrosses (New England, Figure 3) — ^we lack a way to integrate the scattered bits of data to make this assertion confidently. We perceive far less than one per cent of the phenomena involving pelagic birds, surely, and so we see as through a glass darkly. Rough winds while many in the United States were strug- gling to locate receipts to finalize federal in- come taxes (and residents of Maine and Mas- sachusetts prepared to mark Patriot’s Day), a wicked storm began brewing in the Gulf of Mexico and swept up toward the Middle At- lantic and Northeast, where it pounded shore- lines for several days with hurricane-force winds, moving inland through Connecticut and toward Quebec. Birders, being birders, knew that birds would be affected, but we have little record of storms like this one, at least of this intensity at this time of the year and with this trajectory. So scads of us mobi- lized, wondering what we would find. The results were surprising. Few would have guessed that Sooty Terns would be the stars of such a storm, but in fact seven were found in the Northeast (Figure 1). Most of VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 373 THE CHANGING SEASONS: SIGNS? Figure 2. This American Oystercatcher at Nockamixon State Park, Bucks County, Pennsylvania 19 April 2007 was apparently a result of the coastal storm of days earlier and represented the fifth record for Pennsylvania, two of the previous reports coming from this loca- tion. Photograph by Cameron Rutt. these bircis were moribund or appeared ex- hausted; two were found dead. Point Judith, Rhode Island had three; Southington, Con- necticut had one; two were noted on Long Is- land (one dead); and another dead one was found at Goosewing Beach, Rhode Island. We know that the storm moved through part of the Gulf Stream, but data off North Carolina suggest that the Sooties weren’t entrained at this latitude. However, the recently published paper of Bob Wallace and Russ Wigh (2007) conhrms that Sooties are present off central Florida’s Atlantic coast at this time of year. It seems likely that the birds were swept north- ward in southerly winds on the “right” side of this storm, then moved into the coast around the top of the system. Not part of a larger pat- tern in this particular storm — but part of a weak/subtle pattern, typically connected to tropical storms — an American Oystercatcher in Bucks County, Pennsylvania (Figure 2) was another victim of the foul weather. No others were reported inland this season, other than a lost bird in Sheffield, Alabama 24 May, a per- plexing record, as there are rather few such in- terior records anywhere in the United States. Mid-April is the time for Indigo Buntings, Summer and Scarlet Tanagers, and Blue Gros- beaks to move northward from wintering ar- eas, at least in the southern United States, but arrivals of these species en masse in the North at this time of year is usually the product of a fast-moving low-pressure system coming up the coast. However, early spring “overshoots” (or pioneers, depending on one’s interpreta- tion) may arrive well north of typical breeding range during periods of southerly winds. And so, unlike in the Canadian Maritimes, in areas like the Hudson-Delaware region, it can be difficult to distinguish storm-displaced birds from the normal seasonal haul of northerly migrant cardinalids (we may as well lump Pi- ranga tanagers in here): some appeared during or just after the storm, but by no means all. However, if we look to the Bahamas and to Bermuda, the association between the Patriot’s Day storm and fallouts of such species is clear: a record-high six Summer Tanagers and 20-1- Scarlet Tanagers on Bermuda, mostly 14-21 April, plus 12 Scarlet Tanagers in the northern Bahamas 16-21 April. In Nova Scotia, the hrst of 10 Summer Tanagers was found 19 April, as the storm moved inland. In addition, good numbers of Blue Grosbeaks, Indigo Buntings, and over 100 Rose-breasted Grosbeaks were recorded in Nova Scotia, many arriving on the heels of the storm. New England surprisingly had smaller numbers of these storm-birds, but their lot included a remarkable Painted Bunting, filling out a grand slam of the color- ful granivores for the Bay State (with an early Baltimore Oriole thrown in). Simon Perkins notes that the storm’s veering inland meant that seawatch sites along the Massachusetts coast failed to astonish, as winds never came around to the northeast, as they would have if the storm had moved up the coast, and so Rhode Island and Connecticut saw more of the action. So, although there are interpretive gray ar- eas, and although each storm is distinctive in the birds its transports or grounds, we feel conhdent in assigning records such as the Sooty Terns to discrete weather events such as the Patriot’s Day Stonn. But was that wicked weather itself a sign, as my coworker calls the frequent hurricanes of late? “No,” he says; “that was just a bad nor’easter.” (Or a sou’easter, depending on your point of view, 1 suppose.) I still have much to learn about the End Time, clearly. A week or so before the coastal storm, 4-8 April, a severe cold snap dropped tempera- tures by dozens of degrees across the southern Plains through the Ozarks and Mississippi Valley to Appalachia and down the upper Gulf Coast. The effect on trees, already budded or blooming, was chilling (see the S.A. reports in the Tennessee & Kentucky regional report and the accounts in the Arkansas & Louisiana and Alabama & Mississippi reports): observers say the woods looked brown and lifeless, “as though a defoliant spray had been applied,” according to Steve McConnell. The effect on birds was likewise stark: hundreds of Rose- breasted Grosbeaks and dozens of Indigo Buntings and Rose-breasted Grosbeaks were driven to feeding stations. Insectivorous birds, with fewer options during the hard freeze, were probably more severely affected. A few days later, the same front interacted with a second front, bringing a fallout of Neotropical migrants on the upper Gulf Coast 10-11 April. Such late-season cold fronts are not unusual, by any means, but don’t seem to ht neatly with our anticipation of increasingly warm springs. Nevertheless, the overall picture was of a very warm March-through-May period. A Day in May I won’t pretend that any North American Birds reader actually has the inclination, or spare time, to read this journal cover to cover. Hav- ing read each issue at least four, and usually six, times for the past seven years, I may have an unusual, if almost pathological, perspec- tive: though retaining individual records is impossible, 1 find there is a collection of im- pressions about early and late dates and about range contractions and expansions that rattles around in my head. (All of this accreted ma- terial taking up mental shelf space means that I have little trouble taking home the Cliff Clavin award at the local Irish pub on any giv- en night; friends shake their heads when the TV newscaster starts in on some story about invasive weeds on the prairie or a birder shooting a cat to save Piping Plovers — they know what’s coming. So you may wish to or- der a drink before reading on here. “It’s a lit- tle known fact...”) So indulge me. I have always wanted to pick a calendar day in North and Central America and review the day’s birding on just that single date. Has the reader never won- 374 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS THE CHANGING SEASONS: SIGNS? Figure 3. This Atlantic Yellow-nosed Albatross endured many hardships during its prolonged visit to New England. Here, it contem- plates its freedom before taking flight from a beach in Falmouth, Massachusetts 20 May 2007 — its first release from rehabilitation. There has been a notable surge in reports of Yellow-nosed Albatrosses in the North Atlantic in recent years, notably from western Eu- rope in Sweden, Norway, and the United Kingdom. Photograph by Jay Sisson. dered, when out in the field on some glorious day; “What are other birders seeing today around the continent?” Lets pick, at random, the Fourth of May, a day that has always seemed to hold a nice cross-section, at the middle latitudes (not so much in northern-tier states or Canada), of both short- and long-dis- tance migrants, as well as a few vagrants. In 2007, the Fourth fell on a Friday, so there was a little more birding going on than during midweek but not so much as on subsequent weekend days. Weather was relatively mild across much of the Lower 48 states — with the exception of the continent’s center. A terrible outbreak of tornadoes occurred, beginning in the evening of 4 May, with about as about 95% of the city of Greensburg, Kansas destroyed by an EF-5 tornado; 12 people were killed and over 60 injured. The outbreak extended across a wide swath of Oklahoma, Colorado, South Dakota, and Kansas and spawned perhaps 150 tornadoes in total. In reviewing all of the day’s records mentioned in the regional reports, I think it will be interesting to see how many of these fall into larger patterns (or suggest broader issues) — and whether there are any of those elusive “signs” in this snapshot. On the Fourth of May at Florida’s Viera Wetlands, in Brevard County, 94 Black-bellied Whistling-Ducks were counted. Although there are more intrepid species expanding ranges northward in North America (Black- necked Stilt, Carolina Wren), few are more audaciously tropical in appearance than Black-bellieds. What better “poster bird” for global warming in these pages? New records came from areas of Alabama, Arkansas, and Louisiana this season, with more to follow in the summer report. For waterfowl otherwise, 4 May marked a late date for four species: the last of the Aleutian Canada Geese were at Shoreline Park in Santa Clara County, Califor- nia; the last of the Eurasian Teal were noted in OregonAVashington; a late Cinnamon Teal was at Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge in Texas; and Guadeloupe’s latest Ring-necked Duck ever tarried at Gaschet Reservoir. These dates seem mostly normal, and late waterfowl are also sometimes birds wounded in the win- ter hunt, so it is difficult to read much into such records. Five Black Francolins near Makakilo, Oahu Island constituted the only galliform record mentioned from 4 May. On the continent, several regional reports men- tioned that introduced gamebirds of this sort were holding their own but that populations of native species continue to decline, without exception. No mystery of Biblical proportions here — ^just habitat loss and degradation. much of which is preventable. By the Fourth, most of season’s push of Red-necked Grebes had moved through the East, but imagine Cameron Rutt’s pleasure on pulling up to the Susquehanna River near Har- risburg, Pennsylvania and finding the state’s first Yellow-billed Loon, an adult in flawless breeding plumage — not a species one expects to see here, or anywhere in the East, but one of a growing number of extralimital records across the Lower 48 in the past decade or so. Whether this stark increase in records relates to a shift in wintering patterns or to greater observer scrutiny of inland waters is not known, but I rather suspect the latter. Seabirds received rather little comment on the Fourth. A Fork-tailed Storm-Petrel was found dead near La Jolla, California that day, and Woody Bracey found a very nice assort- ment of tubenoses — a Black-capped Petrel, plus a Sooty, 3 Cory’s, and 4 Greater Shear- waters east of Abaco Island. While the storm-petrel was possibly tied to the influx of northern alcids well south of range off the West Coast, and also possibly to the die-off of the alcids and of Mottled Petrels, the Ba- hamian procellariids are typical birds for the date and location but notable because of the dearth of data on seabirds from this area. The only other seabird mentioned on the Fourth was a Brown Pelican at Patagonia Lake, Ari- zona— a species reported with increasing fre- quency in the Southwest in recent years but typically later, in summer or early autumn. Brown Pelican movements in the continent’s interior in spring show little rhyme or reason that I can discern. Early May would seem a fine time to hunt for wading birds in many areas. The season’s first Little Blue Heron for Pennsylvania turned up in Bucks County on 4 May, and a Reddish Egret was at Sumner Lake, New Mexico that day, while Least Bitterns called at California’s Sutter National Wildlife Refuge. Of these, the Reddish Egret is most icono- graphic of wandering/expanding southern species; not only have records increased in the Southwest and Southeast, but the Mid- west and Northeast have seen records in- crease notably in the past few years (Illinois had its third record in May this year, for in- stance). But Glossy Ibis takes the wading bird cake: found across the interior West and up- per Midwest this spring. Glossies were seen at two locations on New Mexico’s Vermejo Ranch 4 May and at Mid-Ocean Golf Course in Bermuda that day. For birders who take this species (or White-faced or White Ibis, for that matter) for granted as locally common species, the phenomenal appearances of ex- tralimital ibises may be underappreciated. But to a birder who has canvassed the same patch for decades and is suddenly finding one or more ibis species (and their hybrids), these Signs of the Times are nearly as jarring a sight as the flocks of tootling whistling-ducks. VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 375 THE CHANGING SEASONS: SIGNS? An early migrant even among plovers, three European Golden-Plovers put in an appear- ance at Kilbride, Newfoundland 4 May, still a good date to look for this vagrant, which typi- cally shows up in Newfoundland in April, en route to Iceland. Will others turn up in New England some day? Another Palearctic early migrant, a fancy Ruff of the rufous sort made its presence known 4 May in Blaise, Quebec; my impression is that Ruffs, after something of a lull in the mid-1980s through the 1990s, have begun to increase (or be detected increasingly of- ten) across much of our fair continent. Migration of shorebirds across the interi- or of the continent was well reported this season, and many high counts came in. It is tempting to see in these numbers some much-need- ed good news about shore- bird populations, but shore- birds in the interior gather rather opportunistically in ephemeral areas of optimal habitat, and our random ob- servations probably provide insufficient data for celebra- tion. In well-studied species, such as Red Knot (see the Middle Atlantic regional re- port), the news in not espe- cially good. Nonetheless, larger species in particular — such as Whimbrel, Willet, and Marbled Godwit — post- ed hne tallies from across a large swath of the continent this spring: 33 Willets and a Marbled Godwit around Wa- terloo, Alabama 4 May was typical of the season. Ruddy Turnstones were also reported in excellent numbers, from New York to Nebraska, in early May, while Wilson’s Phalaropes peaked at 1180 at Bitter Lake Na- tional Wildlife Refuge, New Mexico 4 May (and later at 6000 in Oklahoma). In a season recovering from a surfeit of Ice- land Gulls out West, the Eourth of May was not a date to go gulling in most places. Three Laughing Gulls at Otter Slough Conservation Area, Iowa and three Eranklin’s Gulls at Ko- diak Island, Alaska would certainly have been more newsworthy even just a few years ago, but such sightings have become more routine in recent times, as with Glossy Ibis at the margins of range. Rails still moving (?) in early May included Soras in western North Carolina and Virginia Rails in Bermuda and Tennessee. Raptors have mostly completed their migra- tions through the middle latitudes by early May, though Mississippi Kites (one on the Vir- ginia coast 4 May) are still moving, along with Broad-winged Hawks in some numbers, par- ticularly year-old birds. A Crested Caracara in Hereford, Arizona 4 May may pale next to one seen the next day at Sandy Hook, New Jersey and another (or the same bird?) nine days lat- er on Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts — but all of these records tie in to a larger, and rather recent, pattern of extralimital dispersal that spans from California to Washington state to Iowa to New Brunswick. Where would a caracara seem implausible at this point? Or, for that matter, a Zone-tailed Hawk (one in Nebraska this spring) or a Snail Kite (one in South Carolina)? Near-passerines, that awkward grab bag, had a few highlights on 4 May. Minnesota’s eleventh White-winged Dove chowed down at a feeding station in Kittson County that day, while a Ruddy Ground-Dove was seen at Patagonia Lake, Arizona. (If you need to catch up on the expansions of these species, or of other doves’, consult most any Changing Seasons spring essay since 1997.) An Elegant Trogon along the upper San Pedro River in Arizona 4 May was surely a migrant, as were two Black Swifts at Redding, California, in the Central Valley that day. Birds reported as Black Swifts on the Alabama coast, at Fort Morgan and Dauphin Island, could well have been Caribbean birds — reported several times in Florida, but photographic or specimen ev- idence continues to be elusive. The Fourth also had records of a Costa’s Hummingbird at Veneta, Oregon and a Downy Woodpecker at Quarai, California, both of local if not global interest. Flycatchers of note 4 May were a Wisconsin Scissor- tailed in Bayheld County, a few Gray Flycatchers in Oregon and Washington, and a Yellow-bellied Fly- catcher at Warrior Moun- tain, North Carolina (the season’s fanciest flycatcher appeared in March; Figure 4), while thrush highlights included a late Hermit Thrush on the Dry Tortu- gas, Florida and a timely Veery at Lake Tawakoni State Park, Texas. Both Ba- hama and Northern Mock- ingbirds were also on the Dry Tortugas 4 May, while a Brown Thrasher graced Por- tal, Arizona. A Red-throated Pipit near Crowley Lake in Mono County was a great reward for Friday birding in California — the state’s sec- ond in spring (followed by another 8-12 May at Fort Dick) and most unexpected inland. Hands down, however, the warbler clan held the largest number of 4 May reports — 13 — of all taxonomic groupings, even though the date is well early for the push of eastern warblers out West, which is typically a later May/early June phenomenon. In fact, the only California report on that date was of a North- ern Parula, possibly a bird that had wintered (another parula was in Roosevelt County, New Mexico that day), and the only other West Coast report was of a Palm Warbler at Cape Blanco, Oregon, also a species that mi- grates rather early. A Mourning Warbler in Lincoln County, Colorado seemed remark- ably early 4 May, as did a Hooded Warbler in Bozeman, Montana and a Connecticut War- Figure 4. Florida's first truly confirmed Loggerhead Kingbird entertained birders 8-27 March 2007. It is seen here eating a wasp-mimic moth on 1 1 March 2007. This bird was found by Carl Goodrich — who also found and photo- graphed Florida's first Neotropic Cormorant and probably first Caribbean Martins! Who says one birder can't rewrite the record books in a season? Photograph by Roger Clark. 376 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS THE CHANGING SEASONS: SIGNS? bier at Hendersonville, North Carolina, but less so the Kentucky Warbler in Cave Creek Canyon, Arizona or the Swainson’s Warbler in Alabama’s Tennessee River Valley or the Chestnut-sided Warbler at Lake Tawakoni, Texas or the Prairie Warbler at Mason City, Iowa. Yellow-rumped Warblers were still moving through Washington County, Arkansas in some numbers (22) on 4 May, when an Audubon’s Warbler turned up at South Padre Island, Texas — a place where just about any bird seems possible. If there is a trend detectable among parulids, in my com- pletely unreliable and unscientihc opinion, it is a slowly creeping trend toward earlier and earlier first-arrival dates in nearly all regions. A Sign, to be sure, but not an especially dra- matic one and possibly not one that would survive a statistician’s audit. Summer Tanagers started to hit famed Point Pelee 4 May, the first of ten for the sea- son there, while a single Summer visited a va- grant “trap” in Roosevelt County, New Mexi- co that day, and an “early” Varied Bunting was not too far to the southwest in Eddy County. Unlike the cardinalids, sparrows are mostly “done” by early May, at least as migrants (with exceptions among the Ammodramus) , but lingering birds are often mentioned as late as 4 May, among them this season a Lincoln’s Sparrow at Quintana, Texas, a Harris’s Spar- row in Floyd County, Indiana, a first Golden- crowned Sparrow on St. Pierre (that produc- tive French island off the coast of Newfound- land), and another Golden-crowned in Sioux County, Nebraska, just the fourth document- ed by photograph in the state. Extralimital Zonotrichia seem to me to be on the increase from coast to coast. Finally, in the introduced- but-who-cares category, Michigan had a Eurasian Tree Sparrow in Cass County 4 May (and three the next day in Keweenaw Coun- ty); a European Goldfinch dropped in to a feeder at Ituna, Saskatchewan; and two Yel- low-faced Grassquits were seen on Waianae Mountain, Oahu Island, Hawaii. In the little exercise above, 1 failed to detect anything that we didn’t already know: south- ern birds north, early arrivals, a few lingering and late birds — just another day in May, in a spring that was, again, warm but not the warmest on record. If I have seemed to make light of the search for Apocalyptic bird records, it is not because I find humor in watching canaries expire in coal mines. Rather, I have reached a point of subdued in- credulity in watching such rapid changes in bird distribution, a sense of astonishment only amplified by narratives of doomsday from the scientific community and from what was once, not long ago, considered the reli- gious fringe, now often the decisive voting block in national (and many state and local) elections in the United States. Whether or not individual bird records reflect the warming of the climate is moot, in some sense; if sea ice is gone by 2012, or even 2050, and Green- land’s ice pack with it, many of us will live to see a metamorphosis in avian distribution unimagined by our forebears. Whether our interpretive framework is scientific or reli- gious, there is One Story of our time: carbon dioxide emissions. Literature cited Iliff, M. J., and D. Lovitch. 2007. The Chang- ing Seasons: Foods for thought. North American Birds 61: 208-224. Wallace, R., and R. Wigh. 2007. Pelagic birds of the southern South Atlantic Bight. North American Birds 61: 198-207. Institute for Field Ornithology Register Now for 2008 Take your hireling to another level! 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Q/ a Ij VOLUME 61 (2007) NUMBER 3 377 Current range of the eastern pop- ulation of Painted Bunting (tae- riaa dm)— Part II: Winter range PAUL W. SYKES, JR. • USGS PATUXENT WILDLIFE RESEARCH CENTER • WARNELL SCHOOL OF FORESTRY AND NATURAL RESOURCES UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA • ATHENS, GEORGIA 30602-2152 • (EMAIL: PAUL_SYKES@USGS.GOV) STEPHEN HOLZMAN • UNITED STATES FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE • WESTPARK CENTER, SUITE D 105 WESTPARK DRIVE • ATHENS, GEORGIA 30606 • (EMAIL: STEVE_HOLZMAN@FWS.GOV) EDUARDO E. INIGO-ELIAS • NEOTROPICAL BIRD CONSERVATION PROGRAM • LABORATORY OF ORNITHOLOGY CORNELL UNIVERSITY • 1 5 9 S A P S U C K E R W 0 0 D S R 0 A D • I T H AC A , N E W YO R K 1 4 8 5 0 • ( E M A I L : E E 1 2 @ CO R N E L L . E D U ) Abstract Overview The importance of wintering areas for Neo- tropical migrants is well established. The wintering range of the eastern population of Painted Bunting (Passerina ciris) is de- scribed in detail and presented in maps. The paper also discusses extralimital records from islands in the Caribbean Basin as well as scattered wintering individuals outside the winter range. The possibility of eastern birds wintering on the Yucatan Peninsula and adjacent Central America is considered. An extensive treatment of the protected ar- eas of Peninsular Florida, the northern Ba- hamas, and Cuba describes the importance of upland habitats within these protected ar- eas for wintering buntings. This information should be useful to land management agen- cies, conservation organizations, and private landholders for the welfare of the bunting and biodiversity in general and may also be of interest to ornithologists, other biological disciplines, naturalists, and birders. In Part I of this article, we describe the cur- rent breeding range of the eastern population of Painted Bunting (Passerina ciris) (Sykes and Holzman 2005). Herein we present the winter distribution of this population. We de- fine the winter season as 15 November through 31 March, although it is clear that some migration may occur on either side of this time frame. The winter range of the east- ern breeding birds given in the current litera- ture is somewhat generalized, to include 378 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS CURRENT RANGE OF THE EASTERN POPULATION OF PAINTED BUNTING much of the Florida Peninsula, the Florida Keys, the northern Bahamas, and Cuba (Robertson and Woolfenden 1992, Stevenson and Anderson 1994, A.O.U. 1998, Raffaele et al. 1998, White 1998, Lowther et al. 1999, Garrido and Kirkconnell 2000). The vital importance of wintering areas to Neotropical migrants has been widely dis- cussed in the contemporary ornithological lit- erature (Soule and Wilcox 1980, Hagan and Johnston 1992, Stotz et al. 1996, Parker et al. 1996, Greenberg and Marra 2005), and so we have attempted to present the winter range of the eastern population of Painted Bunting in as much detail as possible, using the most current information. However, there are still gaps in our knowledge about the winter range of this population. This appears to be the first attempt to develop detailed maps for the winter range of the eastern pop- ulation. Further refinement of this win- ter range should evolve as research and field activities continue in the region; thus the maps should be considered works in progress. Most protected lands within the win- ter range in Florida, the Bahamas, and Cuba are shown on the maps, with ad- ditional information provided in the ta- bles and appendices. The inclusion of public lands was suggested by the East- ern Painted Bunting Working Group to aid land management agencies in devel- oping conservation strategies for this declining species. This information may be of interest to the birding public, al- though some of these sites are not open to the public or have other access re- strictions. Methods The current winter range of the eastern population of Painted Bunting in Flori- da is derived from the literature, Christmas Bird Counts (C.B.C.), Cor- nell Lab of Ornithology Feeder Watch Pro- gram, recoveries of banded birds from the United States Geological Survey Bird Band- ing Lab, a study in progress on the survival of eastern Painted Buntings (Sykes et al., in prep.), various web sites, and personal in- sights contributed by biologists and others with current or recent experience in various areas of the region, as well as our own work. The winter range is presented in a suite of maps at different scales in order to provide adequate details of the range in relation to physical features and political boundaries. Abbreviations and acronyms are listed in Table 1. The maps were designed to meet the infor- mation needs of a broad spectrum of users. The range was drawn onto paper maps from available data. These paper maps were scanned and georeferenced to digital county boundaries obtained from the Florida Geo- graphic Information Systems (GIS) clearing- house website and Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI) standard data sets. ESRI ArcGIS software was used to create an ArcGlS shapefile by digitizing the boundary onscreen. This boundary was adjusted by overlaying data from Christmas Bird Counts, Project Feeder Watch, and band recoveries. For Florida and Cuba, the extent of each protected area is presented in the appendices. Information was obtained through consulta- tions with staff members of the agencies man- aging these properties and from own- er/agency websites. Florida counties are listed from north to south, Atlantic coastal counties first, then noncoastal counties, followed by the Gulf Coast counties. When a protected land parcel (e.g., Everglades National Park) encompasses portions of more than one Flori- da county or Cuban province, these lands are generally listed under that county/province with the largest portion; the portions in other counties/provinces are given in parentheses. The size of a given land parcel is for the entire area in all counties or provinces; thus the to- tal size of these protected areas is not additive for those counties or provinces in which it is listed (counties of Brevard, Broward, Char- lotte, Collier, Dade, Glades, Highlands, Lake, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Sarasota, and Seminole in Florida and provinces of Granina, Holguin, Pinar del Rio, and Villa Clara in Cuba). However, in Table 2 only that portion of the given area oc- curring within a county is listed. Three protected status categories for public lands in Florida are used in the appen- dices. These categories are adapted from the Florida Natural Areas Inventory, Florida State University, Tallahassee. Category I. The highest protection is reserved for lands that are specifically and judiciously managed for biodiversi- ty. This category includes lands owned by private entities that are managed for biodiversity conservation and lands ad- ministered by public agencies that are designated for biodiversity through leg- islative action where natural events pro- ceed without interference or are mim- icked through management. The gov- ernmental agency acting alone cannot change these designations without leg- islative action and public involvement. Examples include preserves owned and managed by The Nature Conservancy, Florida Audubon Society, National Audubon Society, and Archbold Expedi- tions, Inc.; preserves and other private preserves committed to biodiversity conservation; preserves that are state- owned and managed; most national parks and seashores; federal wilderness areas; and some local preserves. Category II. This category applies to lands managed for their natural values but may in- cur additional uses such as habitat manipula- tion for game species and/or some recreation infrastructure. These activities will likely de- grade the quality of natural communities lo- cally, but the majority of the land will be man- aged for biodiversity protection. It also in- cludes public lands with administrative desig- nations for biodiversity conservation. Exam- Figure 1. The breeding and wintering range of the eastern papulation of Painted Bunting. The breeding range is approximately 55,1 90 km^ and the winter range 1 73,902 km^ as shown. See discussion for explanation of the question mark in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico. VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 379 I CURRENT RANGE OF THE EASTERN POPULATION OF PAINTED BUNTING band recoveries. The recovery of wintering banded birds is from the files of the United States Geo- logical Survey, Biological Resources Division, Patuxent Wildlife Research Center, Bird Band Laborato- ry, Laurel, Maryland, and study in progress on annual survival of the eastern population (Sykes et al., ms. in prep.). The twelve sites shown represent 94 recoveries for the period 1940 through 2005. pies include private preserves managed for game species; national wildlife refuges; Bu- reau of Land Management areas of critical en- vironmental concern; and state parks. Category III. This category applies to lands maintained for multiple uses, including con- sumptive or recreational values, and not specifically or wholly dedicated to biodiversi- ty conservation. It also includes lands with re- stricted development rights. Unrestricted public access is one criterion that may result in a property being placed into this category. Examples include most nondesignated (i.e., multiple-use) public lands administered by the United States Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management; Department of Defense lands; state forests; regional and large local parks and open space; and private lands pro- tected from subdivision by conservation ease- ments and other title restrictions. With our maps and discussion, we hope to bring the winter range of the eastern popula- tion into sharp focus to aid in management and conservation efforts on behalf of these colorful songbirds. Results The seventh edition of the American Or- nithologists’ Union’s Check-list of North Amer- ican Birds (1998), does not specifically de- scribe the winter range of the eastern popula- tion of Painted Bunting, although one could interpret the text to indicate that its range ex- tends from southern Florida and the north- western Bahama Islands south through Cuba and Jamaica. Bond (1956) describes the win- ter range as southern Florida, Cuba, and the Bahamas; Bond (1974) later indicates it win- ters in southern Florida, Cuba, casually in Ja- maica, and in the Bahamas is recorded from the “north-west” islands; and Raffaele et al. (1998) list the bunting as a nonbreeding resi- Figure 3. The winter range of the eastern population of Painted Bunting in Florida in relation to National Audubon Society Christmas Bird Counts, 1949 through 2004. Within the range shown, the buntings have been recorded at 43 count circles with an approximation of 601 count years. dent in the Bahamas and Cuba primarily from mid-October to the end of April. The popular North American field guides likewise provide generalized and somewhat different interpre- tations of this winter distribution on maps and in texts, some not showing or mentioning Cuba or the Bahamas as a part of the winter range (Pough 1949, Robbins et al. 1983, Far- rand 1983, Sibley 2000, Peterson 2002, Na- tional Geographic Society 2002). The known distribution of the eastern birds is depicted in Figure 1. As readily seen here, the distance traveled during its spring and fall migrations is rather short for a Neotropical migrant. The breeding and win- tering ranges overlap primarily in Volusia and Brevard Counties, Florida. The winter range is roughly 174,902 km^ versus 55,190 km^ for the breeding range. Thus, the breeding range is only 31% of the winter range. The question mark in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico is explained below. Florida — Robertson and Woolfenden 380 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS CURRENT RANGE OF THE EASTERN POPULATION OF PAINTED BUNTING] Atlantic Ocean Gulf of liexlco Legend I I Eastern Population Wintering Range FeederWatch 1i88 - 2605 Nymber Seen ® 0 O 1-4 O 5-10 O Q 18-24 - 60 30 0 60 Kilometers Figure 4. The winter range of the eastern population of Painted Bunting in relation to Project Feeder Watch Program, Laboratory of Ornithology, Cornell Universili, Ithaca, New York, 1988-2005. Sixty-one sites ha¥e recorded buntings within the designated winter range in Florida and repre- sent 907 site days en which buntings were obsenred at feeders. Legend B Protected Lands in Wintering Range I I Eastern Population Wintering Range Figure 5. The vrinter range of the eastern population of Painted Bunting in Florida in relation to protected lands. Some of the larger protected areas are named to help orient the reader. A com- plete listing of all protected lands by county is presented in Appendices 1-12. (1992) list Painted Bunting as regular in win- ter in much of the Peninsula and on the Keys and occasional to irregular elsewhere in the state. Stevenson and Anderson (1994) give the winter range from Central Florida south- ward and indicate that it is a fairly common but formerly more common 'winter resident at Ft. Lauderdale and uncommon throughout the remainder of the South Florida mainland, the Upper Keys, and north to Brevard Coun- ty on the east coast and Collier County on the west coast. They further state that it is rare to casual on the Lower Keys and in the Peninsula north to Pinellas, Polk, and Lake Counties, and occasional in North Florida Oackson-ville, Tallahassee, Panama City, and Pensacola). The -winter range in Florida extends from the keys northward to Volusia, Seminole, Lake, Polk, Hillsborough, and Manatee Coun- ties (Figures 2-5). Twenty-six counties are within this range. The northern limit of the range may vary annually. Individuals and small numbers of buntings are frequently ob- served north of the delineated range (Robert- son and Woolfenden 1992, Stevenson and Anderson 1994) but are not consistently pres- ent at most of these localities for more than two or three winters. Most information on ■wintering buntings comes from the coastal counties (Figures 2, 3, 4). Whether this is an artifact of observer coverage is uncertain; however, most observers live near the coast or visit coastal birding areas more frequently than the interior. Protected lands vidthin the Florida winter range are concentrated in the eastern and southern parts of the Peninsula (Figure 5), with some of the larger areas named for gen- eral reference. Protected lands total 2,229,907 ha or 32% of the range (Table 2). Of these ar- eas, 2,201,235 ha are in public ownership (lo- cal governments 117,371 ha, state govern- ment 1,133,739 ha, and federal government 950,125 ha) and 28,676 ha are in private ownership. Details of ownership, protected status, and size of protected lands for individ- ual counties are given in Appendices 1-12. In addition to the protected lands in pub- lic and private ownership within the winter range of Painted Bunting in Florida, there are two international categories of cooperative management. These are the Biosphere Re- serve System (Florida Everglades) and the Ramsar Sites (Florida Everglades and Pelican Island). A biosphere reserve is a unique concept that includes one or more protected areas and sur- rounding lands that are managed to combine both conservation and sustainable use of natu- ral resources. It is an area of international sig- nificance. Each biosphere reserve conserves examples of characteristic ecosystems of one of the world’s natural regions, managed for their protection and study. It is a land and/or coastal/marine area in which people are an in- tegral component; and it is managed for objec- 381 VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 jCURRENT RANGE OF THE EASTERN POPULATION OF PAINTED BUNTING irand Bahama The Abacos Eleuthera Island Cat Island Rum Cay Bahamas San Xi 0 Salvador The Exumas ^ong Island,^ Crooked Island/^^ Acklins Legend m Eastern Painted Bunting Wintering Range •5(E Vagrants 160 80 0 160 Kilometers Atlantic Ocean A ^:?®y®9una Providenciales ^ (2) / ^ ^ I ' Turks & Caicos Jamaica Figure 6. The winter range of the eastern population of Painted Bunting In the Bahamas and nearby regions. Locations for known va- grants are shown. Florida Gulf of Mexico A CIUOAO DE LA HABANA Cuba Cayo The Exumas Cayo Santa Maria _ „ Bahamas Cayo Coco _ ^ Cayo Romano Cayo Guajaba Cayo Sabinal Guanahacabibes National Park Sur de la Isla Ci6naga de Zapata de la Juventud Biosphere Reserve Nature Reserve Caribbean Sea Cayman Islands 175 87.5 0 175 Band Returns Kilome Cuban Protected Lands Eastern Painted Bunting Wintering Range CIEGO DE AVILA Delta del Cauto ' Wildlife Refuge Baconao Park' Desembarco del Granma National Park Alejandro de Humboldt National Park ^ U.S. Naval Station Guantanamo Bay Jamaica Haiti Figure 7. The winter range of the eastern population of Painted Bunting in Cuba and nearby regions. All 15 provinces are in capital letters and other localities in upper and lower case. The keys (cayos) named along the northern coast are a part of the extensive Archipielago de Sabana-Camagiiey. Localities for band recoveries (Table 6) of the eastern birds through 2006 are shown by black stars ( 'A ). A few stars represent more than one bunting at a given locality. All band recoveries are of birds initially banded in the southeastern United States, except for one bird banded in Cuba that was recovered in Georgia. Many of the protected areas in Cuba are shown by cross-hatching, and a selected few are named (see Appendices 13, 14, and 15). tives ranging from complete protection to in- tensive yet sustainable production. Biosphere Reserve is an international designation made by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization on the basis of nominations submitted by countries partici- pating in the Man and the Biosphere Program. The mission statement of the Ramsar Con- vention is the conservation and wise use of all wetlands through local, regional, and nation- al actions and international cooperation, as a contribution towards achieving sustainable development throughout the world. The Con- vention on Wetlands, signed in Ramsar, Iran in 1971, is an intergovernmental treaty that provides the framework for national action and international cooperation for the conser- vation and wise use of wetlands and their re- sources. While the Ramsar Sites are primarily wetlands, within these sites there is a signifi- cant amount of upland that is used by Paint- ed Buntings during winter in the Everglades and Pelican Island. Bahamas — Bond (1956) stated that Painted Bunting had been recorded from Grand Ba- hama, New Providence, and the Berry Islands, and nearly 20 years later, from the northwest- ern islands of the Bahamas Group, 22 July through 27 April (Bond 1974). Brudenell- Bruce (1979) considered the species to be an uncommon winter visitor, only recorded from the northern islands but presumably occurring throughout the islands in migration. White (1998) listed it as readily found in winter (De- cember through Eebruary) on five islands (An- dros, Cay Sal Bank, The Exumas, Grand Ba- hama, and New Providence); difficult to find on five other islands (The Abacos, Berry Is- lands, Eleuthera, Long Island, and San Sal- vador); and extremely difficult to find on The Biminis (Eigure 6). Raffaele et al. (1998) listed it as common in the Bahamas, while Lowther et al. (1999) indicated that it is uncommon in the islands. The most recent publication on birds in the Bahamas (Hallett 2006) calls Paint- ed Bunting a rare to uncommon winter resi- dent and transient in the northern Bahamas and portions of the central Bahamas and un- recorded or accidental in southern Bahamas. Thus there is some variance in describing the winter status and distribution of Painted Bunting in the Bahamas. Research on Kirtland’s Warbler (Dendroica kirtlandii) on southern Eleuthera, in progress since 2004, has com- monly captured Painted Buntings in mist-nets at the study sites during the winter months Qoseph M. Wunderle, pers. comm.). The bunting has not been reported from Cat Island nor from islands in the southern Bahamas (Bu- den 1987a, 1987b; White 1998; Hallett 2006). Painted Bunting has been recorded from 1 1 islands or island groups (Figure 6) in the Ba- hamas (White 1998; Table 3). Those islands or island groups where the species has not been recorded are also given in this table. What is surprising is that there have been no reports from Cat Island, Conception Islands, or Rum Cay, but birds have been found on San Sal- vador. 382 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS CURRENT RANGE OF THE EASTERN POPULATION OF PAINTED BUNTING Table 1. Abbreviations and acronyms used in this paper. a Acres AS Air Station ASY after second year BLM Bureau of Land Management BR Biosphere Reserve CA Conservation Area Co(s). County/Counties DEP Department of Environmental Protection DOF Division of Forestry DRP Division of Recreation and Parks EP Environmental Park ER Ecological Reserve (Cuba) FNAI Florida Natural Areas Inventory, Florida State University FR Floral Reserve (Cuba) Ft. Fort FWCC Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission FWS U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service ha hectares HP Heritage Park HSP Historic State Park is. Island MA Management Area NA Natural Area NC Nature Center ND Navigation District NP National Park NPS National Park Service NR Nature Reserve (Cuba) NS National Seashore NWR National Wildlife Refuge ONF Outstanding Natural Feature (Cuba) PAOMR Protected Area of Managed Resources (Cuba) Pk Park PNL Protected Natural Landscape (Cuba) PSP Preserve State Park Pt. Point RA Recreation Area RP Regional Park RS Research Station RtA Restoration Area SAS State Archaeological Site SF State Forest Soc. Society SP State Park SR State Reserve Sta. Station TIITF Trustees of the internal Improvement Fund USAF U.S. Air Force USDA U.S. Department of Agriculture USD! U.S. Department of the interior USFS U.S. Forest Service USN U.S. Navy WA Wilderness Area WaMA Waterfowl Management Area WCA Water Conservation Area WEA Wildlife & Environmental Area WMA Wildlife Management Area WMD Water Management District WP Wilderness Preserve WR Wildlife Refuge (local or national) (Cuba) There are twelve protected areas for biodiversity in the islands within the bunting win- ter range, totaling about 21,000 ha or about 1.6% of the total land mass (Table 4). These areas are listed in Table 5; much of the protected area includes open water, as most en- compass primarily marine ecosystems. The largest single area consists of five tracts that form the Central Andros Park on the largest island in the archipelago. There are no Bios- phere Reserves or Ramsar Sites in the winter range of the bunting in the Bahamas. Cuba — The literature (1939-1990) on Cuban birds gives few specihc details on the distribution and status of Painted Bunting, and many publications for specihc localities or regions of the island do not mention the species at all or report it as rare, as summa- rized by Thompson (1991). Barbour (1943) simply says a few winter in Cuba, and we interpret tbis to mean the entire island. Bond (1956) reports that it is found through- out the island in winter but is rather rare, occurring generally from 15 October through 12 April. Garrido and Garcia-Montana (1975) considered the bunting to be common during migration, and later Garrido (1988) listed it as not rare. Raffaele et al. (1998) listed it as a migrant and nonbreeding resident from mid-October through the end of April, uncommon during migration and rare in winter, while Garrido and Kirkconnell (2000) list it as a common transient and rare winter resident on the main island, Isla de Pinos (Isla de la Juventud), and some large northern keys 15 October through 29 April. Thompson (1991; Jide O. Garrido) was able to locate only 15 Painted Bunting speci- mens collected in Cuba, seven in United States museum collections and eight else- where. There do not appear to be any specimens of Painted Buntings collected in the West Indies (excluding the Bahamas) outside of Cuba (Bond 1956 and supplements 1951-1987; Thompson 1991; Christopher W. Thompson, pers. comm.). Painted Bunting has been recorded in all 15 provinces of Cuba (Figure 7). Current evidence suggests tbe species is more common during spring and fall migrations from western Cuba and along the northern part of the island, at least as far east as central Holquin Province, but less common to rare over much of the island in winter. While regularly recorded from keys along the northern coast, they are absent from the offshore keys of the southern coast (Garrido 1980, Buden and Olson 1989, Rodriguez et al. 1994, Gonzdez et al. 1999, Garrido and Kirkconnell 2000, Gonzdez et al. 2000, Gonzalez and Barrio 2005, Gonzalez et al., in press, Kirkconnell et al., in press, Llanes et al, in press, Inigo-Elias, pers. obs., Hiram Gonzalez, Guy M. Kirwan, Nils Navarro, Daysi Rodriguez Batista, Kenneth Rosenberg, Douglas F Stotz, and George E. Wallace, pers. comm.). During a Rapid Biological Inventory on the Zapata Peninsula, Painted Bunting was considered a rare winter visitor (Kirkconnell et al. 2005). Because Painted Buntings generally do not sing while in Cuba, many individuals may be overlooked in the scrub-shrub habitats where they tend to occur (Guy M. Kirwan, pers. comm.). Some important regions for buntings in Cuba include but are not limited to: (1) The keys within the Archipielago de Sabana-Camaguey along the northern coasts in the provinces of Matanzas, Villa Clara, Sancti Spiritus, Ciego de Avila, and Camagiiey (this region is rapidly being developed for the growing tourist trade); (2) Prom the north- eastern coast of Las Tunas Province, eastward along the northern coast of Holguin Province to Bahia de Naranjo, to include areas in and around the village of Gibara, City of Holguin, Bahia de Nipe, and from Mayari and Nipe eastward to Bahia Sagua de Ta- namo (Nils Navarro, pers. comm.); (3) The Peninsula de Guanahacabibes; (4) Mil Cumbres in Pinar Del Rio Province; (5) The northern coast of La Habana Province; and (6) The Peninsula de Zapata in Matanzas Province, including the Zapata Swamp, the area from Jagiiey Grande southward to Palpite (Nils Navarro, pers. comm.), and near- by areas in the southern part of the province. Large numbers of Painted Buntings bave been observed at some localities. During several days in early May 2003, an estimated 700 buntings were trapped for tbe cage- bird trade at a single locality along the northern coast of La Habana Province, just west of the capital city of La Habana (Inigo-Elias, pers. obs.). In city markets of the City of La Habana and Gibara (Holguin Province), large numbers of Painted Buntings are sold in the cagebird trade to foreign tourists and local people Oames W. Wiley and Nils Navarro, pers. comm., Inigo-Elias, pers. obs.). Eor example, Inigo-Elias took a pho- tograph of a cage containing 15 adult (ASY) male buntings at the La Habana City Mar- ket. Painted Bunting has apparently become rarer in Cuba recently in winter, particu- larly in the heavily trapped region at Gibara (Pena 2003). At Playa Larga at the north VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 383 CURRENT RANGE OF THE EASTERN POPULATION OF PAINTED BUNTING Table 2. Summary of protected lands (in hectares) by county {n=26) within the wintering range of the eastern population of the Painted Bunting in Florida. County Public Owned Protected Total County Total Percent Protected Local State Federal Private' Brevard 4,516 63,965 58,364 0 126,845 270,185 47 Broward 2,149 172,914 69 0 175,132 314,028 56 Charlotte 720 40,558 0 81 41,359 180,452 23 Collier 316 91,625 269,387 4,014 365,342 525,595 70 Miami-Dade 3,909 110,503 224,022 36 338,475 506,007 67 DeSoto 0 16,268 0 0 16,268 164,998 10 Glades 0 25,588 0 10,587 36,179 199,650 18 Hardee 0 275 0 0 279 165,344 <1 Hendry 0 37,393 24 8 37,421 301,205 12 Highlands 587 20,182 22,788 3,719 47,275 286,404 17 Hillsborough' 23,735 13,286 2,254 0 39,275 276,086 14 Indian River 482 36,551 2,206 0 39,242 132,949 30 Lake' 3,153 42,569 34,710 16 80,443 298,928 27 Lee 6,297 19,441 1,505 1,246 28,490 208,215 14 Manatee' 10,186 10,918 12 522 21,634 193,967 11 Martin 915 28,000 425 49 29,388 143,778 20 Monroe 12 4,500 234,867 308 239,683 255,490 94 Okeechobee 0 31,897 53 125 32,075 201,196 16 Orange' 2,485 32,079 0 65 34,629 259,940 13 Osceola 441 63,119 0 2,137 65,693 390,155 17 Palm Beach 18,442 113,405 57,421 93 189,361 511,524 37 Polk' 4,213 71,880 21,837 5,253 103,179 520,582 20 Sarasota' 15,192 22,314 0 166 37,672 148,482 25 Seminole' 2,683 8,660 190 247 11,784 82,876 14 St. Lucie 3,675 6,904 0 0 10,578 148,364 7 Volusia' 13,266 48,943 19,991 4 82,204 291,833 28 Totals (ha) 117,371 1,133,739 950,125 28,676 2,229,907 6,978,235 32 Totals (acres) 290,030 2,801,530 2,347,810 70,860 5,510,220 17,243,594 32 'Protected private lands include owners such as Florida Audubon Society, National Audubon Society, The Nature Conservancy, research institutions, and private individuals. 'The protected area summaries for these eight counties include some areas outside of the winter range as delineated. end of Bahia de los Cochinos in the Zapata Region of Matanzas Province, Arturo Kirkconnell has reported observing flocks of 30-50 buntings in late winter (George E. Wallace, pers. comm.). During two winter seasons (1995-1997), Wallace (pers. comm.) trapped and banded 35 Painted Buntings at Cayo Coco, Ciego de Avila Province. Buntings are scarce and erratic along the arid southeastern coast of Cuba. At the United States Naval Station at Guantanamo Bay, Guantanamo Province, during the October through March seasons 1998-2002, a research team from the Institute for Bird Populations (Point Reyes Station, California) captured 17 different individuals at their study sites (none in 1999; 4 in October, 12 in November, and one on 12 December) but observed none except those trapped in mist-nets. No banded buntings were seen or recaptured in subse- quent years (Rodney Siegel, pers. comm.). From 21 January through 3 February 2005, a survey of the 166 km^ Naval Station at Guan- tanamo Bay found no Painted Buntings (Sykes, pers. obs.). During the period 2-9 February 2004, only one green-plumaged bird was observed in a survey of the El Zapato area of Bayamesa National Park, in Granma Province and Santiago de Cuba Province, and during an additional two weeks in other localities of eastern Cuba in February 2004, there were no encounters with the species (Douglas F Stotz, pers. comm.). We are aware of at least 17 eastern Painted Buntings banded in the United States that have been recovered, primarily during the winter period, in central and eastern Cuba (Figure 7). These banding records are summarized in Table 6. Nine of the 10 buntings banded by Sykes on the breeding grounds in the south- eastern United States and reported in Cuba were birds trapped for the cagebird trade. An adult male banded 9 December 1995 near Cayo Coco, Cuba by Hiram Gonzalez Alonso was found dead 3 May 1997 on Skidaway Island, Georgia by John P. Davis. The specimen is re- tained at Harris Neck National Wildlife Refuge. The absence of banding recoveries from the western provinces of Cuba cannot be readily explained. Thompson (1991) suggests that Painted Buntings may only migrate through Cuba, and we now believe that this is probably the case for some undetermined percentage of the birds, based on circumstantial evidence (see Discussion). The National System of Protected Areas (Sis- tema Nacional de Areas Protegidas de Cuba — SNAP) consists of 263 natural terrestrial and marine areas important to Cuba that currently are established or proposed. SNAP is a part of the National Center for Protected Areas (Cen- tro Nacional de Areas Protegidas — CNAP) of the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Envi- ronment (Ministerio de Ciencia Tecnologia y Medio Ambiente — CITMA) which coordinates the work of SNAP with the principal agencies that physically administer these areas. The main mission of SNAP is to guarantee continued protection and con- servation of the natural resources of national heritage for the use of present and future generations as a part of the sustainable develop- ment of Cuba. The fully established protected areas (70 of the 263) are summarized in Table 7. The protected areas listed in Appendices 13, 14, and 15 are the ter- restrial portions and exclude all marine areas. These terrestrial habi- tats include both uplands and freshwater wetlands. The protected up- land area for Cuba totals over 1,936,267 ha; of this, about 1,340,970 ha are currently included in established management entities, and 595,297 ha are sites that are proposed. Some of the larger protected ar- eas are shown in Figure 7. Cuba uses eight classifications for its protected areas: Reserva Nat- ural (Nature Reserve); Parque Nacional (National Park); Reserva Ecoldgica (Ecological Reserve); Reserva Floristica Manejada (Flora Reserve); Elemento Natural Destacado (Outstanding Natural Fea- ture); Paisaje Natural Protegida (Protected Natural Fandscape); Refu- 384 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS CURRENT RANGE OF THE EASTERN POPULATION OF PAINTED BUNTING | Table 3. Painted Bunting winter distribution on the principal islands and island groups in the Bahama Archipelago (Norton 1986; Aldridge 1987; Buden 1987a, 1987b; White 1998; B. Hallett and A. W. White, pers. comm.). The Bahamas Reported Not Reported The Abacos Ackiins Island Andros Cat Island Berry Islands Conception Island The Biminis Crooked Island Cay Sal Bank Great inagua Eleuthera little Inagua The Exumas Mayaguana Grand Bahama Ragged Islands long Island Rum Cay New Providence San Salvador Turks and Caicos Reported Not Reported Providenciales Grand Turk Middle Caicos North Caicos South Caicos gio de Fauna (Wildlife Refuge); and Area Protegida de Recursos Manejados (Protected Area of Managed Resources, which includes Biosphere Reserves). In the last category, we have separated out Bios- phere Reserves from other Protected Area of Managed Resources. There are six Biosphere Reserves and five Ramsar Sites in Cuba, many of which may be used by wintering Painted Buntings. Turks and Caicos — Painted Bunting is a vagrant to these islands (Figure 6), with just two reports. Two were at Providenciales 30 March 1985, seen by Beverlea Aldridge (Norton 1986), possibly individuals that were banded at that locale (the first for the species in these islands) in 1985-1986 (Aldridge 1987). Aldridge’s table lists only one bird, while the text states two, so it is not clear if one or two were banded. She gives arrival and departure dates of 20 December and 22 April in Table 3 without further explanation. Ground (2001) reports photo- graphs taken in the islands of a green-plumaged bunting listed in tbe text as a “bird of passage.” No specific locality, date, or additional de- tails were provided. Dominican Republic — Painted Bunting is a vagrant to this country, with just two reports, one published and one unpublished. An ASY male was captured in a mist-net at Punta Cana, at the east end of His- paniola and released after being measured, weighed, and photographed on 3 January 2007 (Dhondt and Dhondt 2007). As many as a six green- plumaged Painted Buntings were seen in an opening at the edge of a marsh surrounded by xeric shrub/scrub on 24 March 2003 in Monti Cristi National Park and about 1 km north of Copey, Rio Chacuey (19° 41.5’ N, 71° 40.6’ W; Figure 6). This locality is within a few kilometers of the border with Haiti. The observer had excellent views of the birds but could not be certain of the exact number, as the site was teeming vHth birds of various species (Mark R Robbins, pers. comm.). Haiti — We have been unable to locate any published reports of Painted Buntings from this country (Bond 1956 and supplements, 1974, 1993; A.O.U. 1957, 1983, 1998 and supplements; Raffaele et al. 1998; Lowther et al. 1999; Figure 6). Thompson (1991) included it in Table 4. Biodiversity and protected areas adapted from Earthtrends 2003 for the Bahamas. Areas given in hectares.' Category' Bahamas Total land Area 1,388,000 Protected Areas—- (Extent of Protected Areas by lUCN Category, 2003): Nature Reserves, Wilderness Areas, and Na- tional Parks (Categories 1 and II) 21,000 Total Area Protected (all categories) 21,000 Protected Areas as a Percent of Total land Area, 2003 1.6 Number of Protected Areas, 2003 12 'Sources: United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (2002), United Nations Environmental Programme (2003), and World Resources Institute (2003). 'PROTECTED AREAS Total Larrd Area as reported by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). The area of inland water bodies is included in the totals. Extent of Protected Areas by lUCN Category An lUCN Management Protected Area is defined by lUCN as "an area of land and/or sea especially dedicated to the protection and maintenance of biological diversity, and of natural and associated cultural resources, and managed through legal or other effective means." lUCN categorizes protected areas by management objective. Al! calculations for the analyses were performed by WRl using the WDPA GIS point file containing all nation- ally designated protected areas, joined with a corresponding table showing area in hectares (provided by UNEP-WCMC). Due to variations in consistency and methodology of collection, data on protected areas are highly variable among countries. Nature Reserves, Wilderness Areas, and National Parks (categories I and II) include all land area protected in the following lUCN categories: Category la. Strict nature reserve; a protected area managed mainly for scientific re- search and monitoring; an area of land and/or sea possessing some outstanding or rep- resentative ecosystems, geological or physiological features and/or species. Category !b. Wilderness area: a protected area managed mainly for wilderness protec- tion; a large area of unmodified or slightly modified land and/or sea retaining its natu- ral character and influence, without permanent or significant habitation, which is protected and managed so as to preserve its natural condition. Category II. National park: a protected area managed mainly for ecosystem protection and recreation; a natural area of land and/or sea designated to; (a) protect the ecologi- cal integrity of one of more ecosystems for present and future generations; (b) exclude exploitation or occupation inimical to the purposes of designation of the area; and (c) provide a foundation for spiritual, scientific, educational, recreational, and visitor oppor- tunities, all of which must be environmentally and culturally compatible. the winter range but gave no reference. Puerto Rico — Painted Bunting has not been reported from this island (Bond 1956 and supplements, 1974, 1993; Leopold 1963; Raffaele 1983; Raffaele et al. 1998; Oberle 2000). Jamaica — Painted Bunting is a vagrant to this country, with two pub- lished sight records for the island (Figure 6) as cited by Levy (1993). On 30 December 1962, a green-plumaged bird was at Montego Bay (it was described as “a female,” but females cannot be separated in the field in winter from young males less than two years of age). This individual re- mained at the site until 10 February 1963 (Downer 1963, Bond 1964). Very near Montego Bay, another individual was cited as seen on 29 Oc- tober 1980 by Lisa Salmon at Anchovy (Anonymous 1981). VOlUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 385 I CURRENT RANGE OF THE EASTERN POPULATION OF PAINTED BUNTING Table 5. Protected areas in the Bahamas within the winter range of the Painted Bunting.' Number Area Name Island Area' Size (ha) 1 The Rand NC Grand Bahama 41 2 Lucayan NP Grand Bahama 16 3 Walker's Cay Abaco 1,554' 4 Pelican Cays Land and Sea Park Abaco 850' 5 Abaco NP Abaco 8,297 6 Central Andros Pk Area (5) Andros 115,780' 7 The Retreat New Providence 5 8 Harrold and Wilson Ponds New Providence 101' 9 Bonefish Pond New Providence 518' 10 Primeval Forest New Providence 3 11 Exuma Cays Land and Sea Pk Exuma 45,587' 12 Moriah Harbour Cay Exuma 5,439' Total — — 178,191' 'Information contained in this table obtained from the Bahamas National Trust, courtesy of Eric Carey. 'Areas rounded to nearest whole unit. 'These sites include open water areas; size of upland habitats not available. Cayman Islands — Painted Bunting is a vagrant to this country, with four reports of Painted Buntings at Grand Cayman (Figure 6). Three were photographed at George Town over four days in early April 1981; a green bird was at Government House 15 December 1994; an adult male and two green birds were observed daily at Eng- lish Point, 26 January through 12 February 1998, with the male re- maining until 16 April; and an individual was at Wight’s 28 Febru- ary 1999 (Bradley 2000). Discussion We have attempted to clarify the winter range of the eastern popula- tion of Painted Bunting in the three principal regions in which it has been documented to occur: the peninsula of Florida, the northern portion of the Bahamas, and Cuba. Much is yet to be learned of the winter distribution and status of the buntings in the Bahamas and Cuba and to a lesser degree in Florida. Further held work in these re- gions should clarify the gaps in our knowledge. Outside the winter range, there are at least 160+ reports through 2005 from coastal areas in winter from Georgia north to New Jersey (Georgia — 6+ [Beaton et al. 2003; Sykes, unpubl. data]. South Car- olina— 15+, North Carolina — 65+ [AVENDEX data hie program; Ricky Davis, John O. Fussell, Jeff Lewis, and Patricia Moore, pers. comm.], Virginia — 39, Maryland — 14, Delaware — 9, and New Jersey — 19 [Mlodi- now and Hamilton 2005]. Of these 160+ reports, 146 were north of the breeding range. Work is in progress to deter- mine which population(s) is represented by these buntings 0- Klicka, Sykes et al, unpubl. data). The number of reports has increased in recent years, as Mlodinow and Hamilton (2005) indicate. Many reports from North Carolina are of multiple birds ranging up to 15 individuals per site, espe- cially since the mid-1980s (Ricky Davis, pers. comm.). Whether this increase is real or an artifact of increased covered is not known (Mlodinow and Hamilton 2005). Are these birds vagrants, or do they indi- cate a shift in the winter range in response to global warm- ing? It will be interesting to see if this trend continues in fu- ture decades. Circumstantial evidence sug- gests that some eastern Painted Buntings probably cross from Cuba to the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico during migration and possibly winter somewhere in Mexico or Central America. Table 6. Banded Painted Buntings of the eastern population recovered in Cuba that were banded in the southeastern United States. Wintering in Cuba Band No. Sex' Date Observed Locality Date . United Nations Environmental Programme. 2003. World Database on Protected Areas. Version 6. Compiled by the World Data- base on Protected Areas Consortium. Cam- bridge, United Kingdom. World Resources Institute. 2003. Earthtrends. . White, A. W 1998. A Birder’s Guide to the Ba- hama Islands (including Turks and Caicos). American Birding Association, Colorado Springs, Colorado. 388 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS APPENIDIX Appendix 1. Protected lands within the winter range of the eastern population of the Painted Bunting on the Atlantic coast of Florida: Brevard County. Sites are ranked by size, large to small; parcels less than 10 hectares are excluded (n=9). Where a property extends into other counties, those counties are given in parenthesis under the site name. Site Protected Status' Size' (ha) Number Agency Name 1 FWS Merritt Is. NWR (Volusia) 2 30,835 2 NPS Canaveral NS (Voiusia) 1 23,336 3 St. Johns WMD Blue Cypress CA (Indian River) 3 21,672 4 St. Johns WMD Three Forks Marsh CA 3 20,611 5 St. Johns WMD River Lakes CA (Orange, Osceola) 3 15,118 6 Florida TiiTF William Beardall Tosohatchee SR (Orange, Osceola) 2 13,653 7 St. Johns WMD Seminole Ranch CA (Orange, Seminole, Volusia) 3 11,766 8 Florida DRP St. Sebastian River PSP (Indian River) 1 8,959 9 USAF Cape Canaveral AS 3 6,348 10 St. Johns WMD Buck Lake CA (Volusia) 3 3,919 11 FWS St.Johns NWR 2 2,511 12 St. Johns WMD Salt LakeWMA 3 1,998 13 St. Johns WMD Canaveral Marshes CA (Orange) 3 1,797 14 Brevard Co. Micco Scrub Sanctuary 2 1,713 15 St. Johns WMD T. M. Goodwin WaMA 3 1,490 16 USAF Patrick AFB 3 773 17 St. Johns WMD Pine Is. CA 2 336 18 Brevard Co. Valkaria Scrub Sanctuary 2 311 19 St. Johns WMD Bird Lake Marsh 3 295 20 Florida DRP Sebastian Inlet SP (Indian River) 3 295 21 Florida TIITF Grissom Parkway 3 290 22 Brevard Co. Valkaria Expansion 2 254 23 USAF MalabarTransmitter Annex 3 247 24 St. Johns WMD Met Life 8; Wheeler Farms Parcels 3 186 25 Brevard Co. Kabboord Sanctuary 2 182 26 Brevard Co. Malabar Scrub Sanctuary 2 159 27 Florida TIITF Enchanted Forest Sanctuary 2 157 28 Florida DRP Indian River Lagoon PSP 1 154 29 Brevard Co. Jordan Scrub Sanctuary 2 150 30 Brevard Co. South Babcock 2 73 31 St. Johns WMD Wal-mart Parcels (Orange) 3 65 32 Brevard Co. South Lake 2 65 33 Florida TIITF Micco Expansion 3 65 34 Florida TiiTF Helen & Allan Cruickshank Sanctuary 2 60 35 Florida TIITF Ten Mile Ridge 3 55 36 Brevard Co. Malabar Expansion 2 52 37 Florida Audubon Soc. Turkey Creek Sanctuary 2 49 38 FWS Archie Carr NWR (Indian River) 2 41 39 Brevard Co. Tico Scrub Sanctuary 2 40 40 Brevard Co. Maritime Hammock Sanctuary 2 39 41 St. Johns WMD Snag Point 3 39 42 St. Johns WMD Chain-of-Lakes Storm-Water Pk 3 26 43 Brevard Co. Coconut Pt. Sanctuary 2 21 44 Brevard Co. Erna Nixon Pk 3 21 45 Brevard Co. Diceranda Scrub Pk 2 18 46 Florida DRP Coconut Pt. Pk 3 18 47 Brevard Co. Washburn Cove Sanctuary 2 15 48 Brevard Co. Lori Wilson Pk 3 11 49 Brevard Co. Barrier Is. Ecosystem Center 2 11 50 Brevard Co. Twin Shores Pk 3 10 'Categories (1, 2, and 3) of protected status are presented in Methods section. ^Areas are rounded to nearest whole hectare; includes uplands and wetlands but not open water areas. VOLUME 61 2007) . NUMBER 3 389 APPENIDIX Appendix 2. Protected lands within the winter range of the eastern population of the Painted Bunting on the Atlantic coast of Florida: Indian River and St. Lucie Counties. Sites are ranked by size, large to small; parcels less than 10 hectares are excluded (n=1 Indian River, 4 St. Lucie). Site Protected Size^ Number Agency Name Status' (ha) INDIAN RIVER COUNTY 1 St. Johns WMD Ft. Drum Marsh CA 3 8,464 2 St. Johns WMD Sand Lakes RtA 3 1,329 3 FWS Pelican Is. NWR 2 262 4 Indian River Co. Lost Tree Islands CA 2 139 5 St. Johns WMD Oslo Riverfront CA 3 133 6 St. Johns WMD Adams Property 3 73 7 Florida TIITF Jungle Trail CA 2 54 8 Indian River Co. Treasure Shores 3 29 ST. LUCIE COUNTY 1 Florida DRP Savannas PSP 2 2,269 2 St. Lucie Co. Bluefield Ranch 2 1,329 3 South Florida WMD C-23/C-24 Storage Reservoirs 3 840 4 South Florida WMD Ten Mile Creek 3 372 5 Florida DRP Ft. Pierce Inlet SP 3 328 6 St. Lucie Co. St. Lucie Pinelands 2 304 7 Florida DRP Avalon SP 3 260 8 St. Lucie Co. Greene Swamp Preserve 2 214 9 City of Ft. Pierce Savannas Outdoor RA 3 198 10 Florida DRP John Brooks Pk 2 164 11 Florida TIITF Oueens Is. 2 156 12 Florida DRP Blind Creek Pk 2 146 13 St. Lucie Co. Indrio North Savannas 2 142 14 St. Lucie Co. Bear Pt. 2 139 15 St. Lucie Co. Dollman Tract 2 112 16 South Florida WMD Oxbow EcoCenter 2 93 17 St. Lucie Co. Kings Is. 2 67 18 St. Lucie Co. Cappon Trail Pk 2 63 19 St. Lucie Co. Middle Cove 2 56 20 St. Lucie Co. Indrio Blueway Buffer 2 43 21 St. Lucie Co. Platt's Creek Mitigation Pk 3 39 22 St. Lucie Co. Spruce Bluff 2 32 23 St. Lucie Co. Paleo Hammock 2 32 24 St. Lucie Co. Wildcat Cove 2 32 25 Village of St. Lucie St. Lucie Village HP 3 29 26 St. Lucie Co. Ocean Bay 2 28 27 St. Lucie Co. Pepper Pk 2 19 28 St. Lucie Co. Ancient Oaks 2 19 29 City of Port St. Lucie Oak Hammock Pk 3 17 30 St. Lucie Co. Impoundments 3 13 31 St. Lucie Co. Walton Scrub 2 12 32 St. Lucie Co. Project 1 0B 3 11 ’Categories (1, 2, and 3) of protected status are presented in Methods section. ^Areas are rounded to nearest whole acre; includes uplands and wetlands but not 1 open water areas. _J 390 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS APPENIDIX Appendix 3. Protected lands within the winter range of the eastern population of the Painted Bunting on the Atlantic coast of Florida: Martin County. Sites are ranked by size, large to small; parcels less than 10 hectares are excluded (n=24). Where a property extends into another county, that county is given in parenthesis under the site name. Site Protected Status' Size' (ha) Number Agency Name 1 South Florida WMD Dupuis Reserve 3 8,923 2 South Florida WMD Allapattah Flats 3 8,053 3 Florida SP Jonathan Dickinson SP (Palm Beach) 2 4,586 4 South Florida WMD John C. and Mariana Jones/Hungryland WEA (Palm Beach) 3 4,374 5 South Florida WMD Atlantic Ridge 3 2,321 6 South Florida WMD Cypress Creek/Loxahatchee (Palm Beach) 3 1,362 7 FWS Hobe Sound NWR (St. Lucie) 2 435 8 Florida DRP Seabranch PSP 2 372 9 Florida DRP St. Lucie Inlet PSP 1 366 10 Martin Co. Bessemer 2 177 11 South Florida WMD South Fork Addition 3 139 12 Martin Co. Halpatiokee Regional Pk CA 2 88 13 Martin Co. Lake Okeechobee Ridge 2 84 14 Martin Co. Kiplinger 2 56 15 The Nature Conservancy Blowing Rocks Preserve 1 44 16 Florida Inland ND Peck Lake Pk 2 30 17 Martin Co. Stuart Beach Pk 2 27 18 Martin Co. Dutcher 2 24 19 Martin Co. Palm City CA 2 24 20 Martin Co. Gomez 2 23 21 Martin Co. Phipp's Pk CA 2 21 22 Martin Co. Pendavis Cove Pk 2 17 23 Martin Co. Jensen Beach 2 17 24 Florida Inland ND Martin County Spoil Islands 2 15 25 Martin Co. Tilton 2 15 26 Martin Co. Timer Powers Pk CA 2 14 27 Martin Co. Jimmy Graham Pk 2 12 28 Martin Co. Danforth Pk 2 10 29 Martin Co. Indian River Pk CA 2 18 'Categories (1, 2, and 3) of protected status are presented in Methods section. 'Areas are rounded to nearest whole acre; includes uplands and wetlands but not open water areas. VOLUME 61 ( 2 0 0 7 • NUMBER 3 391 APPENIDIX Appendix 4. Protected lands within the winter range of the eastern population of the Painted Bunting on the Atlantic Coast of Florida: Paim Beach County. Sites are ranked by size, large to small; parcels less than 10 hectares are excluded (n=10). Where properties extend into other counties, those counties are given in parenthesis under the site name. Site Protected Size' Number Agency Name Status' (ha) 1 South Florida WMD,FWS Arthur R. Marshall Loxahatchee NWR (CA1) 2 56,175 2 Florida FWCC J.W. Corbett WMA (Martin) 3 24,728 3 South Florida WMD Everglades Agricultural Area 3 21,052 4 City of West Palm Beach Grassy Waters Preserve 3 5,332 5 Palm Beach Co. Loxahatchee Slough NA 1 4,453 6 Palm Beach Co. Pat-Mar NA 1 2,991 7 Palm Beach Co. Hungryland Slough NA 1 1,197 8 South Florida WMD Strazzulla Tract 3 1,108 9 Florida TIITF Loxahatchee Slough Research NA 1 941 10 Palm Beach Co. Pond Cypress NA 1 623 11 South Florida WMD Loxahatchee Slough 3 599 12 South Florida WMD C-5/L-8 Basin Mod & Reservoir 3 494 13 Palm Beach Co. Sweetbay NA 1 400 14 Palm Beach Co. South Co. RP 2 358 15 Palm Beach Co. Okeeheelee Pk 2 353 16 Palm Beach Co. Cholee Pk 2 319 17 Palm Beach Co. Royal Palm Beach Pines NA 1 311 18 Florida TIITF Loxahatchee Slough Public Use NA 3 256 19 Florida FWCC Lake Harbor Public WA 3 249 20 Paim Beach Co. Cypress Creek NA 1 237 21 Florida TIITF Juno Dunes NA 1 232 22 Palm Beach Co. Winding Waters NA 1 220 23 South Florida WMD Reese Groves 3 216 24 Palm Beach Co. Loxahatchee River NA 1 151 25 South Florida WMD Wellington/Acme Marsh 3 141 26 Florida DRP John D. MacArthur Beach SP 2 124 27 Florida TIITF Jupiter Ridge NA 1 106 28 Florida TIITF Yamato Scrub NA 1 88 29 Palm Beach Co. Morikami Museum & Japanese Gardens 2 75 30 Palm Beach Co. River Bend Pk 3 68 31 Palm Beach Co. Frenchman's Forest 1 63 32 Palm Beach Co. Radnor 2 63 33 Palm Beach Co. EastCA 1 59 34 Palm Beach Co. North Jupiter Flatwoods NA 1 53 35 Florida Atlantic Univ. Florida Atlantic Univ. Ecological Site 2 49 36 Palm Beach Co. Acreage Pines NA 1 48 37 Palm Beach Co. Carlin Pk 2 44 38 Palm Beach Co. C-1 8 Triangle NA 1 41 39 Palm Beach Co. Hypoluxo Scrub NA 1 39 40 City of Boca Raton Spanish River Pk 3 39 41 USDI, BLM Jupiter Inlet 3 37 42 Palm Beach Co. Pondhawk NA 1 32 43 Palm Beach Co. Lake Pk Scrub NA 1 25 44 Palm Beach Co. Seacrest Scrub NA 1 22 45 Florida TIITF Pahokee Marina & Campground 3 20 46 Palm Beach Co. Dubois Pk 2 20 47 City of Boca Raton South Beach Pk 2 16 48 Palm Beach Co. High Ridge Scrub NA 1 16 49 Florida TIITF Big Mound State SAS 3 13 50 City of Boca Raton Gumbo Limbo Environmental Complex 2 12 51 City of Boca Raton Red Reef Pk 2 12 52 Palm Beach Co. Delray Oaks NA 1 10 53 Palm Beach Co. Jupiter Beach Pk 2 10 ’Categories (1, 2, and 3) of protected status are presented in Methods section. ^Areas are rounded to nearest whole acre; includes uplands and wetlands but not open water areas. i C A N 392 NORTH A M E R B R D S APPENIDIX Appendix 5. Protected lands within the winter range of the eastern population of the Painted Bunting on the Atlantic Coast of Florida: Broward County. Sites are ranked by size, large to small; parcels less than 10 hectares are excluded (n=50). Where prop- erties extend into other counties, those counties are given in parenthesis under the site name. Site Protected Size' Number Agency Name Status' (ha) 1 Florida TIITF, Florida FWCC Everglades (WCA 2 & 3) & Francis S. Taylor WMA (Dade, Palm Beach) 3 269,518 2 South Florida WMD Stormwater Treatment Areas (Hendry, Palm Beach) 3 19,277 3 Florida TIITF, Florida FWCC Holey Land WMA (Palm Beach) 3 14,307 4 Florida TIITF, Florida FWCC RotenbergerWMA (Hendry, Palm Beach) 3 11,639 5 South Florida WMD East Coast Buffer (Dade, Palm Beach) 3 8,673 6 Broward Co. West Lake Pk/Anne Kolb NC 3 421 7 City of Pembroke Pines Florida Wetlands Bank 2 186 8 Broward Co. Tradewinds RP 3 156 9 Florida DRP John U. Lloyd Beach SP 3 106 10 Broward Co. Dania Saltmarsh 1 103 11 Broward Co. Fern Forest NC 2 101 12 Broward Co. Tree Tops RP 3 98 13 City of Plantation Plantation Central Open Space 3 84 14 Florida DRP Hugh Taylor Birch SP 3 69 15 Broward Co. Pond Apple Slough 1 68 16 Broward Co. Snake Creek/Miramar Pineland NA 1 65 17 Broward Co. Long Key/Flamingo Road NA 1 58 18 Broward Co. Pine Is. Ridge NA 1 40 19 City of Ft. Lauderdale Snyder Pk 2 36 20 City of Pompano Beach Pompano Airpak 3 32 21 Broward Co. Hollywood North Beach RP 3 27 22 Broward Co. Hillsboro Pineland NA 1 27 23 City of Coral Springs Tail Cypress NA 1 27 24 Broward Co. Vista View 2 25 25 City of Pembroke Pines Pines and 196th Avenue 3 22 26 Florida inland ND Deerfield Is. RP 3 22 27 City of Ft. Lauderdale Mills Pond Pk 2 22 28 Broward Co. Secret Woods Buffer &NC 1 21 29 Florida TIITF Snake Warrior's Is. 2 21 30 Broward Co. Easterlin RP 3 19 31 Town of Southwest Ranches Rolling Oaks 2 18 32 City of North Lauderdale Hampton Pines Pk 1 17 33 City of Coral Springs Sandy Ridge 2 16 34 Broward Co. The Jungle NA 1 13 35 City of Plantation Volunteer Pk Addition 3 13 36 City of Coral Springs Sherwood Forest 2 12 37 City of Coconut Creek Winston Pk 2 12 38 Broward Co. Parkland 2 10 39 Broward Co. Crystal Lake Sand Pine Scrub NA 1 10 40 City of Parkland Hoimberg Road Pk Complex 2 10 'Categories (1, 2, and 3) of protected status are presented in Methods section. ^Areas are rounded to nearest whole acre; includes uplands and wetlands but not open water areas. V 0 L U E 61 (2007) . NUMBER 3 393 APPENIOIX Appendix 6. Protected lands within the winter range of the eastern population of the Painted Bunting on the Atlantic Coast of Florida: Dade County. Sites are ranked by size, large to small; parcels less than 10 hectares are excluded (n=53). Where properties extend into other counties, those counties are given in parenthesis under the site name. Site Protected Size' Number Agency Name Status' (ha) 1 NPS Everglades National Pk (Collier & Monroe) 1 387,633 2 South Florida WMD Southern Glades 3 13,560 3 Miami-Dade Co. Model Lands Basin 2 4,741 4 South Florida WMD Frog Pond/L-31 N Transition Lands 3 3,847 5 NPS Biscayne National Pk (Monroe) 1 2,895 6 USAF Homestead Air Reserve Base 3 778 7 Miami-Dade Co. Crandon Pk 2 362 8 Florida TIIIF Oleta River SP 3 345 9 Miami-Dade Co. Miami Metrozoo 2 295 10 Miami-Dade Co. Trail Glades Range 2 286 11 Florida TIITF R. Hardy Matheson Preserve 2 264 12 Miami-Dade Co. Milton E. Thompson Pk 2 259 13 South Florida WMD Biscayne Coastal Wetlands 3 188 14 Miami-Dade Co. Matheson Hammock Pk 2 182 15 Miami-Dade Co. Chapman Field Pk 2 180 16 Miami-Dade Co. Cutler Wetlands 1 175 17 Florida DRP Bill Baggs Cape Florida SP 3 162 18 Miami-Dade Co. Mangrove Preserve 2 162 19 Miami-Dade Co. Navy Wells Pk 2 144 20 Florida TIITF Deering Estate at Cutler Ridge 1 141 21 Miami-Dade Co. Tropical Pk 2 115 22 U.S. Coast Guard U.S. Coast Guard Communication Sta. 3 114 23 Miami-Dade Co. Larry & Penny Thompson Pk 2 113 24 Miami-Dade Co. Homestead Bayfront Pk 2 111 25 USDA Subtropical Horticulture RS 3 80 26 Miami-Dade Co. Haulover Beach Pk 2 71 27 Miami-Dade Co. Greynolds Pk 2 61 28 Miami-Dade Co. Tree Is. Pk. 1 49 29 Miami-Dade Co. Kendall Indian Hammocks Pk 2 49 30 Miami-Dade Co. Black Pt. Pk & Marina 2 44 31 Miami-Dade Co. Lakes by the Bay Pk 2 40 32 Miami-Dade Co. Ives Estate Pk 2 38 33 Miami-Dade Co. Camp Owaissa Bauer 2 37 34 Miami-Dade Co. Fairchild Tropical Garden 3 33 35 Miami-Dade Co. Black Pt. Wetlands 1 32 36 Florida TIITF Boystown Pineland 1 31 37 University of Miami Campus University of Miami Richmond 2 31 38 Miami-Dade Co. Tamiami #8 Pineland (Nixon Smiley Addition) 1 27 39 Miami-Dade Co. Nixon Smiley Pineland Preserve 2 25 40 Miami-Dade Co. Castellow Hammock Preserve 2 24 41 Miami-Dade Co. A. 0. "Doug" Barnes Pk 2 23 42 Florida TIITF Quail Roost Pineland 1 20 43 Miami-Dade Co. Gold Coast Railroad Museum Pk 2 19 44 Miami-Dade Co. Coral Reef Pk 1 19 45 Miami-Dade Co. Sunny Palms Pineland 1 16 46 Florida TIITF Goulds Pineland Addition 1 15 47 Florida TIITF North Shore Pk 2 15 48 Florida TIITF Deering Estate South Addition 1 14 49 Miami-Dade Co. Highland Oaks Pk 2 14 50 Miami-Dade Co. Deering Estate North Addition 1 13 51 City of Miami Virginia Key and Marine Stadium 3 13 52 Miami-Dade Co. Dolphin Center Stadium Neighborhood Pk 2 11 53 Florida TilTF Tamiami Pineland Complex Addition 1 11 54 Florida TIITF Ross Hammock 1 11 55 Miami-Dade Co. Bill Sadowski Preserve 2 10 56 Miami-Dade Co. Seminole Wayside Pk 2 10 57 Florida TIITF Rockdale Pineland 1 10 58 Miami-Dade Co. Fuchs Hammock Preserve 2 10 59 Florida TilTF Florida City Pineland 1 10 'Categories (1, 2, and 3) of protected status are presented in Methods section. 'Areas are rounded to nearest whole acre; includes uplands and wetlands but not open water areas. 394 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS APPENIDIX [ippendii 7. Protected lands within the winter range of the eastern population of the Painted Bunting inland in Florida: Siiiinole, Lake, and Orange Ceunties. Sites are ranked by size, large to small. Parcels less than 10 hectares are excluded (n=Seminoie 3, Orange 1). Where properties extend into other counties, those counties are given in parenthesis under the site name. Site Protected Size’ Number Agency Name j Status’ (ha) 1 St. Johns River WMD Lake Jessup CA (Volusia) | 3 2,161 2 St. Johns River WMD Little Big Econlockhatchee SF (Volusia) 3 2,235 3 St. Johns River WMD Wekiva River CA 3 943 4 Seminole Co. Black Bear Vffl 2 628 5 Florida TIITF Spring Hammock Preserve 2 609 6 Seminole Co. Black Hammock WA 2 283 7 Seminole Co. Chuloota WA 2 251 8 Seminole Co. Lake Proctor WA 2 193 9 USFS Pineloch Tract 3 191 10 Seminole Co. Lake Jessup WA 2 184 11 St. Johns River VfflD Econlockhatchee Corridor Project 3 175 12 Florida Audubon Soc. Sabal Pt. Sanctuary 1 114 13 Seminole Co. Econlockhatchee River WA 2 97 14 Seminole Co. East 417 Property 2 74 15 Seminole Co. Geneva WA 2 71 16 Seminole Co. Electrical Workers Property 2 63 17 Seminole Co. Charles Lee Property 2 47 18 City of Oviedo Twin Rivers Two Preserve 2 16 LAKE COUNTY j 1 Southwest Florida WMD Green Swamp (Pasco, Polk, and Sumter) 3 44,338 2 Florida FWCC HilocheeWMA(Polk) 3 3,955 3 Florida DRP Lake Louise SP 2 1,784 4 Florida TIITF General James A. Van Fleet Trail (Polk, Sumter) 3 146 5 St. Johns River WMD Don McCaffrey Parcels 3 35 ORANGE COUNTY 1 Florida TIITF William Beardall Tosohatdiee State Preserve 2 13,653 2 St. Johns River WMD Lake Apopka Restoration Area 3 8,129 3 Florida TIITF Rock Springs Run State Reserve 2 5,693 4 St. Johns River WMD Hal Scott Regional Preserve & Pk 3 3,464 5 Florida DRP Wekiva Springs SP (Seminole) 1 3,127 6 Orange Co. Split Oak Forest Mitigation Pk (Osceola) 3 724 7 South Florida WMD Shingle Creek (Osceola) 3 714 8 Orange Co. Moss Pk 3 j 401 9 Orange Co. Long Branch Pk 3 234 10 South Florida WMD Tibet-Butler Preserve 2 178 11 Orange Co. Kelly Pk 3 79 12 City of Orlando Turkey Lake Pk 2 69 13 City of Orlando Lake Fran Conservation Easement 3 62 14 Town of Oakland Oakland Nature Preserve 3 54 15 Orange Co. Shadow Bay Pk 3 45 16 Florida Audubon Soc. Egret Isle Sanctuary 1 10 ’Categories (1, 2, and 3) of protected status are presented in Methods section. 1 %reas are rounded to nearest whole acre; includes uplands and wetlands but not open water areas. j VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 395 APPENIDIX Appendix 8. Protected lands within the winter range of the eastern population of the Painted Bunting inland in Florida: Polk and Osceola Counties. Sites are ranked by size, large to small; parcels less than 10 hectares are excluded (n==Polk 2). Where properties extend into other counties, those counties are given in parenthesis 1 under the site name. Site Protected Size^ Number Agency Name Status’ (ha) POLK COUNTY 1 Florida USFS Lake Wales Ridge SF 3 10,791 2 Florida DRP Allen David Broussard Catfish Creek PSP 1 3,339 3 Florida FWCC Tenoroc Fish MA 3 3,019 4 Florida TIITF Osprey Unit 3 2,470 5 The Nature Conservancy Tiger Creek Preserve 1 1,927 6 Polk Co. Sumica/LakeWalk-in-the-Water Tract 3 1,634 7 Florida TIITF Homeland 3 778 8 Florida Port 8; Comp. Hines Conservation Easement 3 667 9 Florida TIITF Clear Springs 3 582 10 Polk Co. Lake Hancock Circle B Bar Reserve 2 511 11 Polk Co. Gator Creek Preserve 2 439 12 Florida TIITF Bowlegs Creek 3 372 13 The Nature Conservancy Saddle Blanket Lakes Preserve 1 303 14 Polk Co. Saddle Creek County Pk 3 295 15 Polk Co. North/Walk-in-Water Creek 2 260 16 Polk Co. Lakeland Highlands Scrub 2 223 17 Polk Co. Crooked Lake Prairie 2 213 18 Polk Co. IMC-Peace River Pk 3 188 19 Florida Audubon Soc. Saddle Creek Sanctuary 1 166 20 St. Johns River WMD Lake Lowery Marsh 2 157 21 Florida TIITF South Peace River 3 148 22 Southwest Florida WMD Alafia Reserve 3 135 23 Southwest Florida WMD Upper Lake Marion Creek Watershed 3 117 24 Florida TIITF Little Payne Creek 3 110 25 Polk Co. Sherwood L. Stokes Preserve/Lake Marion 2 89 26 Polk Co. Lake Bonnet Marsh 2 68 27 Florida TIITF South Prong Alafia River 3 55 28 Polk Co. Hickory Lake Scrub County Pk 3 22 29 Polk Co. Peace River Hammock 2 17 30 Polk Co. Crooked Lake Sandhill 2 10 DSCIOLA COUNTY 1 Florida FWCC Three Lakes WMA 3 24,920 2 South Florida WMD Kissimmee Chain of Lakes (Polk) 3 10,899 3 St. Johns River WMD, Florida FWCC Bull Creek WMA 3 9,483 4 Florida FWCC Triple N Ranch WMA 3 6,315 5 South Florida WMD Upper Lakes Basin Watershed (Polk) 3 5,018 6 The Nature Conservancy Disney WP (Polk) 1 4,850 7 Florida DRP Lake Kissimmee SP (Polk) 2 2,375 8 Osceola Co. Lake Lizzie Nature Preserve 3 386 9 Florida TIITF Makinson Is. (Cypress Is.) 3 77 10 South Florida WMD Oak Street Extension Preserve 3 58 n Florida TIITF Paradise Is. 3 49 12 City of Kissimmee Shingle Creek Recreation Preserve 3 46 13 Florida USFS HoiopawSF 3 26 1 ’Categories (1, 2, and 3) of protected status are presented in Methods section. 1 ^Areas are rounded to nearest whole acre; includes uplands and wetlands but not open water areas. 396 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS APPENIDIX Appendix 9. Protected lands within the winter range of the eastern population of the Painted Bunting inland in Florida: Hardee, DeSoto, Highlands, Okeechobee, Glades, and Hendry Counties. Sites are ranked by size, large to small; parcels less than 10 hectares are excluded (n=Highlands 1). Where properties extend into other counties, those counties are given in parenthesis under the site name. 5ite j Protected Size' 1 Number Agency Name Status’ (ha) HARDEE COUNTY I 1 Florida DRP Paynes Creek HSP 161 DESOTO COUNTY 1 Southwest Florida WMD RV Griffin Reserve 3 2,367 2 Southwest Florida WMD Lower Peace River Corridor 3 800 HIGHLANDS COUNTY 1 USAF Avon Pk Air Force Range (Okeechobee, Polk) 3 43,896 2 Florida DRP Kissimmee Prairie PSP (Okeechobee, Osceola, Polk) 1 21,766 3 South Florida WMD Kissimmee River (Okeechobee, Osceola, Polk) 3 14,897 4 Florida TilTF Lake Wales Ridge WEA (Polk) 2 5,948 5 Florida DRP Highland s Hammock SP (Hardee) 2 3,760 6 Archbold Expeditions, Inc. Archbold Biological Sta. 1 3,580 7 South Florida WMD Paradise Run (Okeechobee) 3 1,324 8 Florida FWCC Platt Branch Mitigation Pk WEA 3 805 9 FWS Lake Wales Ridge NWR (Polk) 2 755 10 Highlands Co. The Preserve 2 543 11 Southwest Florida WMD Jack Creek 3 519 12 Florida DRP Lake June-in-Winter SP 2 350 13 The Nature Conservancy Venus Flatwoods Preserve 1 33 14 The Nature Conservancy Carter Creek 1 15 OKEECHOBEE COUNTY 1 South Florida WMD Lake Okeechobee Critical Project 3 2,024 2 South Florida WMD New Palm Dairy 3 869 GLADES COUNTY 1 Florida FWCC Fisheating Creek WMA 3 7,255 2 Florida TIITF Sanctuaries Lake Okeechobee 1 1,188 3 South Florida WMD Nicodemus Slough 3 824 4 Floraglades Foundation Moya Sanctuary (Hendry) 1 78 HENDRY COUNTY 1 Florida FWCC Dinner Is. Ranch WMA 3 7,960 2 South Fiorida WMD Caloosahatchee Basin Storage Reservoir 3 3,661 3 Florida FWCC Canoe Slough WMA 3 3,030 4 Florida FWCC Okaloacoochee Slough WMA 3 1,183 5 South Florida WMD C-43 Basin Aquifer Storage Part 1 3 410 1 ’Categories (1, 2, and 3) of protected status are presented in Methods section. 1 ^Areas are rounded to nearest whole acre; includes uplands and wetlands but not open water areas. VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 397 APPENIDIX Appendix 10. Protected lands within the winter range of the eastern population of the Painted Bunting inland in Florida: Manatee, Sarasota, and Charlotte Counties. Sites are ranked by size, large to small; parcels less than 10 hectares are excluded (n=Charlotte 1). Where properties extend 1 into other counties, those counties are given in parenthesis under the site name. Site Protected Size' Number Agency Name Status' (ha) MANATEE COUNTY 1 Manatee Co. Duette Pk 3 7,235 2 Manatee Co. Headwaters of Duette Pk 3 1,369 3 Southwest WMD Upper Myakka Watershed 3 954 4 Florida TilTF Beker 3 685 SARASOTA COUNTY 1 Florida DRP Myakka River SP (Manatee) 2 14,961 2 Sarasota Co. T. Mabry Carlton, Jr. Memorial Pk 3 9,938 3 Florida DOF Myakka SF 3 3,289 4 Sarasota Co. Pinelands Reserve 2 2,485 5 Southwest Florida WMD Deer Prairie Creek 2 2,481 6 Southwest Florida WMD Myakka River 3 1,584 7 City of North Port Myakkahatchee Creek EP 3 80 CHARLOTTE COUNTY 1 Florida FWCC Fred C. Babcock-Cecil M. Webb WMA (Lee) 3 28,229 2 Florida DRP Charlotte Harbor PSP (Lee) 1 17,135 3 Florida TIITF Yucca Pens Unit (Lee) 3 5,749 4 Southwest Florida WMD Prairie/Shell Creek 3 246 5 Charlotte Co. Charlotte Flatwoods 3 204 6 Charlotte Co. Tippecanoe EP 2 144 7 Florida DRP Don Pedro Is. SP 3 94 8 Charlotte Co. Amberjack EP 2 89 9 Florida DRP Stump Pass Beach SP 3 77 10 Charlotte Co. San Casa Pk 3 75 11 City ofPunta Gorda Alligator Creek 3 58 12 Charlotte Co. Oyster Creek EP 3 55 13 Florida TIITF Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center 2 51 14 Charlotte Co. Cedar Pt. EP 2 45 15 Charlotte Co. Ollie's Pond Pk 3 17 16 Charlotte Co. Sunrise Pk 3 16 17 Charlotte Co. Hathaway Pk 3 16 18 The Nature Conservancy James E. Cook Memorial Preserve 1 12 19 FWS Island Bay NWR 2 10 1 'Categories (1, 2, and 3) of protected status are presented in Methods section. 1 ^Areas are rounded to nearest whole acre; includes uplands and wetlands but not open water areas. | 398 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS APPENIDIX Appendii 11. Protected lands within the winter range of the eastern population of the Painted Bunting along the Gulf of Mexico of Florida: Lee County. Sites are ranked by size, large to small; parcels less than 10 hectares are excluded (n=4). Site Protected Size' Number Agency Name Status' (ha) 1 Florida DRP Estero Bay PSP 1 4,217 2 FWS J. N. Ding Darling NWR 2 1,551 3 Lee Co. Prairie Pines Preserve 2 1,092 4 Lee Co. Wild Turkey Strand Preserve 2 1,070 5 Florida DRP Cayo Costa SP 2 892 6 Lee Co. Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve 2 825 7 Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation Land 1 674 8 Lee Co. Caloosahatchee Creek Preserve 2 497 9 Lee Co. Hickey Creek Mitigation Pk WEA 3 315 10 Florida DRP Caloosahatchee RP 3 305 n Lee Co. San Carlos Bay-Bunche Beach Preserve 2 288 12 South Florida WMD Corkscrew Regional Mitigation Bank 3 260 13 Lee Co. Pine Is. Flatwoods Preserve 2 240 14 Lee Co. Lovers Key Pk 3 205 15 FWS Matlacha Pass NWR 2 182 16 FWS Pine is. NWR 2 165 17 Lee Co. Greenbriar Swamp Preserve 3 157 18 Lee Co. Charlotte Harbor Buffer Preserve 2 153 19 Lee Co. Yellow Fever Creek Preserve 2 137 20 Lee Co. Popash Creek Preserve 1 129 21 Lee Co. Lakes Pk 3 116 22 Lee Co. Hickey's Creek Mitigation Pk 2 114 23 Lee Co. Deep Lagoon Preserve 2 96 24 Lee Co. Estero Bay Buffer Preserve 2 96 25 Lee Co. Imperial Marsh Preserve 2 95 26 Lee Co. Yucca Pens Preserve 2 79 27 Lee Co. Gator Hole Preserve 2 72 28 Lee Co. Alva Scrub Preserve 2 70 29 Lee Co. Bocilla Preserve 1 69 30 Florida TIITF Four Mile Cove Ecological Preserve 3 67 31 Florida DRP Mound Key Archeological SP 3 67 32 Lee Co. Galt Preserve 2 65 33 Florida DRP Koreshan State Historic Site 3 57 34 Lee Co. Big Hickory Is. Preserve 1 54 35 Lee Co. Pine Lake Preserve 2 51 36 Florida DRP Gasparilla Is. SP 3 48 37 Lee Co. Mullock Creek Preserve 1 48 38 Lee Co. St. James Creek Preserve 1 46 39 FWS Norberg Research NA 1 41 40 City of Ft. Myers Calusa NC & Planetarium 2 41 41 Lee Co. Powell Creek Preserve 2 31 42 Lee Co. Flag Pond Preserve 2 31 43 Lee Co. Hickory Swamp Preserve 2 27 44 Lee Co. Hickey's Creek/Greenbriar Connector 3 27 45 South Florida WMD Six Mile Cypress II 3 26 46 Univ. of Florida Foundation Randell Research Center 3 25 47 Lee Co. Orange River Preserve 2 23 48 Lee Co. Matanzas Pass Preserve 1 23 49 Lee Co. Old Bridge Preserve 1 19 50 Lee Co. Conservation 2020 Site #216 2 17 51 Lee Co. Eagle Lake Preserve 1 17 52 FWS Caloosahatchee NWR 2 16 53 Lee Co. Persimmon Ridge Preserve 1 15 54 Lee Co. Imperial River Preserve 1 13 55 South Florida WMD Critical Flowway 3 10 'Categories (1, 2, and 3) of protected status are presented in Methods section. 'Areas are rounded to nearest whole acre; includes uplands and wetlands but not open water areas. VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 399 APPENIOIX Appendix 12. Protected lands within the winter range of the eastern population of the Painted Bunting along the Gulf of Mexico of Florida: Collier and Monroe Counties. Sites are ranked by size, large to small; parcels less than 10 hectares are excluded (n=Monroe 3). Where properties extend into other counties, those counties are given in parenthesis under the site name. Site Protected Status' Number Agency Name COLLIER COUNTY 1 NPS Big Cypress Preserve (Broward, Dade, Hendry, Monroe) 1 119,410 2 Florida DRP Fakahatchee Strand PSP 1 32,064 3 Florida DOF Picayune Strand SF 3 29,983 4 South Florida WMD Okaloacoochee Slough SF (Hendry) 3 13,058 5 Florida TIITF Rookery Bay National Estuarine Reserve 2 12,306 6 South Florida WMD Corkscrew Regional Ecosystem Watershed (Lee) 3 9,886 7 FWS Florida Panther NWR 2 10,684 8 FWS Ten Thousand is. NWR 2 8,676 9 National Audubon Soc. Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary (Lee) 1 4,282 10 Florida DRP Collier-Seminole SP 2 2,760 11 South Florida WMD LakeTrafford Impoundment 3 253 12 Florida DRP Delnor-Wiggins Pass SP 3 56 13 Collier Co. Barefoot Beach Preserve 3 47 14 Florida TIITF Jentgen Parcel 3 39 MONROE COUNTY 1 FWS Great White Heron NWR 2 6,210 2 FWS Crocodile Lake NWR 2 2,258 3 USN Key West Naval Air Sta. 3 1,517 4 Florida DRP John Pennekamp Coral Reef SP 2 1,381 5 Florida DRP Dagny Johnson-Key Largo Hammock Botanical SP 1 1,006 6 FWS Key West NWR 2 790 7 Florida TIITF Florida KeysWEA 2 762 8 FWS National Key Deer Refuge 2 649 9 Florida DRP Long Key SP 3 292 10 Florida DRP San Pedro Archaeological SP 1 260 11 Florida DRP Curry Hammock SP 2 229 12 Florida DRP Lignumvitae Key Botanical SP 1 206 13 The Nature Conservancy Saddle Bunch Keys 1 138 14 Florida DRP Bahia Honda SP 2 125 15 The Nature Conservancy Torchwood Hammock Preserve 1 68 16 The Nature Conservancy Cross Key 1 50 17 Florida DRP Indian Key Historic SP 3 45 18 FWS Cottrell Key Research NA 1 19 19 Florida DRP Ft. Zachary Taylor Historic SP 3 16 20 Florida DRP Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological SP 2 13 1 'Categories (1, 2, and 3) of protected status are presented in Methods section. 1 ^Areas are rounded to nearest whole acre; includes uplands and wetlands but not open water areas. 400 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS APPENIDIX Appendix 13, Protected areas of Western Cuba in the provinces of Pinar del Ri'o, Isla de la Juventud, Habana, Ciudad de la Ha- bana, and Matanzas. Data was obtained from the web site of Sistema Nacional de Areas Protegidas (System of National Protected Ar- eas of Cuba) , Cuban Centro Nacional de Areas Protegidas. Province Area Name Type of Land Management Total Area (ha) Total Upland Area (ha) Status' Pinar del Rio Reserve de la Biosfera Guanahacabibes Biosphere Reserve (BR) 153,136 103,628 E Guanahacabibes National Park (NP) 39,826 23,633 E Cienaga de Lugones Wildlife Refuge (WR) 1,282 1,282 P Los Pretiles Ecological Reserve (ER) 590 548 P Los Caimanes (PR) Flora Reserve (FR) 169 169 P Culebra FR 278 278 P Los Ocujes FR 1,252 1,252 P Paso Real FR 90 90 P San Ubaldo-Sabanalamar FR 5,212 4,858 E Sierra de Guane Outstanding Natural Feature (ONE) 391 391 P Punta Coco WR 1,116 591 P Sierra del Pesquero-Mesa-Sumidero ONF 5,319 5,319 P Sierra de San Carlos ER 2,852 2,852 P Sierra de Contadores FR 1,517 1,517 P Gramales-Caiiente-La Pena FR 3,375 3,375 P Cayo Ratones WR 269 269 P Vihales NP 11,119 11,119 E Cerro de Cabras-Guanito FR 2,614 2,614 P Punta Caribe WR 1,970 1,970 P Finca La Caridad FR 10 1 P Cayo Levisa Protected Natural Landscape (PNL) 31,516 679 P Mogote La Mina ONF 70 70 P Sierra de la Guacamaya ONF 2,074 2,074 P Los Paredones-Presa El Punto FR 128 128 P Encinar de Puerta de Goipe FR 268 268 P Cayo Mono WR 2,795 2,795 P Mogote de Pico Chico FR 271 271 P Pinar del Rio & Isla de la Juventud San Felipe NP 42,934 2,079 P Sierra Preluda-Cuabales de Cajalbano Nature Reserve (NR) 1,416 1,416 P Mil Cumbres Protected Area of Managed Resources (PAOMR) 17,129 17,129 E Sierra la Guira NR 1,252 1,252 P Reserva de San Marcos NR 254 254 P Pan de Guajaibon ONF 755 755 P Toscano-Cayo Alfiler FR 764 764 P Canon del Rio Santa Cruz ONF 937 937 P Reserva de la Biosfera Sierra del Rosario BR 26,686 26,686 E Las Peladas NR 1,429 1,429 E El Salon ER 1,040 1,040 E Isla de la Juventud Punta Frances NP 4,610 1,596 E Surdela Isla de la Juventud PAOMR, Ramsar Site — No Data — E Los Indios ER 5,504 5,397 E Cerro Cristal FR 85 85 P Sierra de la Canada PAOMR 765 76 E Sierra de las Casa FR 579 579 P Sierra de Caballos FR 447 447 P Pinar Calizo ONF 684 684 P Cerro Daquilia ONF 92 92 P Cerros Santa Isabel FR 30 30 P Cerro San Juan FR 75 75 P Punta del Este ER 41,779 7,055 E Cayo Campos WR 10,099 1,334 P Cayo Cantiles-Avalo- Rosario NP 56,430 5,641 P Cay Largo ER 71,151 2,905 P VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 401 APPENIDIX 402 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS APPENIDIX Appendix 14. Protected areas of Central Cuba in the provinces of Cienfuegos, Villa Clara, Sancti Spiritus, Ciego de Avila, and Camaguey. Data was obtained from the web site of Sistema Nacional de Areas Protegidas (System of National Protected Areas of Cuba) , Cuban Centro Nacional de Areas Protegidas. Province Area Name Type of Land Management Total Area (ha) Total Upland Area (ha) Status' Cienfuegos Guajimico-Gavilanes Protected Natural Landscape (PNL) 1,624 127 P Guanaroca-Punta Gavilan Wildlife Refuge (WR) 3,038 1,704 E Matagua Flora Reserve (FR) 1,677 1,677 P Yaguanabo Protected Areas of Managed Resources (PAOMR) 3,904 3,904 P Pico San-Juan Ecological Reserve (ER) 3,296 3,296 P Cueva de Martin Infierno Outstanding Natural Feature (ONF) 44 44 P Mameyal WR 1,452 1,452 P Aguacate Boca de Carreras PNL 616 616 P Villa Clara Motembo FR 756 756 P Monte Ramonal FR 2,474 2,474 E Las Piciias-Cayo Cristo WR 55,972 15,726 E Mogotes deJumagua ER 479 479 E Sabanas de Santa Clara FR 7,237 7,237 E Lanzanillo-Pajonal-Fragoso WR 87,071 10,586 E Villa Clara & Sanct iSpiritus Reserva de la Biosfera Buena Vista Biosphere Reserve (BR) Ramsar Site, 313,770 87,502 E Villa Clara Las Loras WR 6,378 1,641 E Cayo Frances ER 6,181 642 P Cayo Maja-Espanol de Adentro WR 4,901 843 P Cayo Santa Maria WR 2,567 1,547 P Los Caimanes National Park (NP) 28,831 114 E Sancti Spiritus Topes de Collantes PNL 29,425 29,425 E Pico Potrerillo ER 328 328 P Arena SOice de Casilda FR 771 771 P Delta del Agabama WR 8,477 5,464 P Lomas de Fomento FR 225 225 E Delta del Higuanojo WR 853 754 P Aituras de Banao ER 6,177 6,177 E Tunas de Zasa WR 6,044 5,312 E Homos de Cal ONF 50 50 P Loma Tasajeras ONF 248 248 P Palmar de Romero WR 191 191 P Caguanes NP 20,488 8,499 E Jobo Rosado PAOMR 4,181 4,181 E La Chucha ONF 233 233 P Lebrige WR 950 950 E El Pinon FR 19 19 P Ciego de Avila Jardines de la Reina NP 217,036 16,079 E Boqueron (CA) ONF 3,190 3,190 P Monte Revacadero FR 422 422 P Monte Cacarrata FR 558 558 P Cayos de Ana Maria WR 19,098 982 E Humedales del Norte de Ciego de Avila PAOMR, Ramsar Site 259,189 103,829 P El Coy FR 7,055 7,055 P Dunas de Cayo Guillermo ONF 247 247 P Centro y Oeste de Cayo Coco ER 36,387 17,980 E Laguna La Redonda WR 602 602 P Cayo Alto WR 95 95 P Loma de Cunagua WR 8,228 8,228 P El Venero WR 3,719 3,719 E VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 403 APPENIDIX Appendix 14 continued. Province Area Name Type of Land Management Total Area (ha) Total Upland Area (ha) Status' Camaguey Humedales de Cayo Romano y Norte de Camaguey PAOMR 347,329 116,920 P Monte Caimanes FR 4,153 4,153 P EscarpedeSan Felipe FR 3,817 3,817 P Noroeste de Cayo Cruz FR 320 320 P Cayo Cruz WR 18,698 1,223 P Tuabaquey-Limones ER 1,962 1,962 P Sierra de Maraguan FR 5,600 5,600 P Correa WR 6,049 3,895 P Sierra de Guaicanamar FR 1,868 1,868 P Silla de Romano FR 2,141 2,141 P Cangilones de Rio Maximo ONF 564 564 P Sierra de Camajan FR 2,106 2,106 P Sierra del Chorrillo PAOMR 3,410 3,410 E Bosque Fosil de Najasa ONF 127 127 E Hornos de Cayo Guajaba FR 1,007 925 P Rio Maximo WR, RamsarSite 22,580 8,161 E Laguna Larga FR 4,783 4,630 P Maternillo-Tortuquilla ER 8,967 3,882 E Monte Grande FR 3,893 3,893 P Barrera Submarina Santa Lucia PNL 4,938 234 P Cayos Los Ballenatos y Manglares de la Bahia de Nuevitas WR 6,968 6,294 E Nuevas Grandes-La Isleta ER 10,091 8,684 P Laguna de San Felipe FR 41 41 P 'We list only two categories for status of the protected areas: E = Established — The protected area has a staff of personnel with infra- structure and is operational; and P = Proposed — Area is proposed for protection by SNAP (this also includes all other processes leading up to the establishment phase). 404 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS APPENIDIX Appendix 15. Protected areas of Eastern Cuba in the provinces of Las Tunas, Holguin, Granma, Santiago de Cuba, and Guantanamo. Data was obtained from the Sistema National de Areas Protegidas (System of National Protected Areas of Cuba), www.SNAP.cu/, Cuban Centro National de Areas Protegidas. Province Area Name Type of Land Management Total Area (ha) Total Upland Area (ha) Status' Las Tunas San Miguel de Junto Flora Reserve (FR) 5,765 5,484 P Ojo de Agua-Guajairal Wildlife Refuge (WR) 5,330 5,213 E Arenas Blancas de Tunas FR 906 906 P Nuevas Grandes-La Isleta Ecological Reserve (ER) 10,091 8,684 P Monte Naranjito FR 782 782 P Bahia de Malagueta WR 23,262 14,054 P Guayacan FR 5,301 4,340 P Holguin Hacienda Las Calabazas WR 358 358 P Cupey-Guacacoa FR 1,387 1,387 P Dos Rios FR 103 103 P Caletones ER 33,515 29,794 P Balsas de Gibara WR 747 697 P Cerros de Norte de Holguin Protected Natural Landscape (PNL) 823 823 P La Ceja de Meiones FR 996 996 P Cerro Galano Nature Reserve (NR) 2,986 2,986 P Bahia de Naranjo PNL 1,934 1,825 P La Espahita WR 198 198 P La Mensura-Pilotos National Park (NP) 8,467 8,467 E Cabo Lucrecia Punta de Mulas FR 2,701 2,690 P Peninsula de Ramon PNL 1,566 1,526 P Cayo Saeti'a PNL 4,779 3,663 P Pico Cristal NP 18,537 18,537 E Bahia de Sagua de Tanamo y sus Cayos WR 9,395 5,082 P Saitadero WR 48 48 P Voceadero WR 516 314 P Boca de Cananova WR 582 463 P Cerro Miraflores FR 7,839 7,362 P " & Guanta- Reserva de la Biosfera Cuchillas del Toa Biosphere Reserve (BR) 202,353 196,837 E namo " & Guanta- Alejandro de Humbolt NP 70,835 68,572 E namo Granma Desembarco del Granma NP 32,660 26,528 E Desembocadura del Rio Tana FR 482 463 P "& Las Tunas Delta del Cauto WR, Ramsar Site 66,375 56,384 E Pehon de Mota PNL 55 32 P " & Santiago de Cuba Turquino NP 22,926 22,922 E Granma Monte Paimarito FR 657 657 P " & Santiago de Cuba La Bayamesa NP 24,211 24,211 P Granma Batalla de Guisa FR 1,240 1,240 P El Gigante Outstanding Natural Feature (ONF) 694 694 P Santiago de Pico Caracas FR 468 468 P Cuba Pozo Prieto FR 1,596 1,596 P Los Galeones WR 3,296 43 P Monte Bisse FR 570 570 P Loma el Gato FR 763 763 P Monte Barrancas FR 301 301 P Cayo Rey FR 919 919 P San Miguel de Parada WR 297 297 P Siboney-Justisi ER 1,857 908 E Reserva de la Biosfera Baconao BR 84,857 75,342 E La Caoba FR 927 927 P Gran Piedra PNL 3,039 3,039 P El Retiro PNL 1,490 1,091 E Pico Mogote ER 1,493 1,493 P Charrascales de Micara FR 430 430 P Monte Micara FR 357 357 P VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 405 APPENIDIX 406 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS The Friends of North American Birds SUPPORT THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS, THE ABA’S JOURNAL OF ORNITHOLOGICAL RECORD Since its inception, the fund has allowed for many improvements to the journal's look and feel. The journal is now mailed in a protective wrapper to insure its delivery in one piece. The content has benefited from an increase in page count which has allowed for additional articles with even more detailed analysis. The amount of color pages has increased which has allowed for expanded Pictorial Highlights and an occasional Photo Salon. All of this has been made possible with your generous contributions. There are more plans in the works for future issues but the fund does need your continued support. To become a “Friend of NAB”, simply donate $50 or more. Each "Friend of NAB" will be recognized annually in the first issue of each volume of North American Birds. Send donations to: The Friends of NAB, ABA, 4945 N. 30th Street, Suite 200 Colorado Springs, CO 80919-3151 STANDARD ABBREVIATIONS AND SYMBOLS USED IN THE REGIONAL REPORTS * specimen collected + bird(s) seen through end of period t written details on file A.F.B. Air Force Base acc. accepted by records committee A.R.C. Avian Records Committee b. banded B.B.S. Breeding Bird Survey B.O. Bird Observatory B.R.C. Bird Records Committee C.A. Conservation Area CB.C. Christmas Bird Count CP. County Park cm centimeter(s) Cr. Creek Ft. Fort 6.C. Golf Course G.P. Game Preserve Hwy. Highway I.(ls.) Island(s), Isle(s) imm. (imms.) immature(s) Jet. Junction juv. (juvs.) juvenal [plumage]; juvenile(s) km kilometer(s) L. Lake mm millimeter(s) m.ob. many (or multiple) observers Mt. (Mts.) Mount/Mountain (Mountains) N.A. Nature Area, Natural Area N.F. National Forest N.M. National Monument N.R National Park N.S. National Seashore N.W.R. National Wildlife Refuge p.a. pending acceptance P.P. Provincial Park Pen. Peninsula ph. photographed (by + initials) Pt. Point (not Port) R. River R.A. Recreation(al) Area R.B.A. Rare Bird Alert R.P. Regional Park R.S. Regional Shoreline Res. Reservoir Rte. Route S.B. State Beach S.F. State Forest S.G.A. State Game Area S.P. State Park S.R.A. State Recreation Area S.R. State Reserve S.W.A. State Wildlife Area S.T.P. Sewage Treatment Plant/Pond subad. (subads.) subadult(s) Twp. Township v.r. voice recording (by + initials) vt. videotape (by + initials) m. Wildlife Area W.M.A. Wildlife Management Area W.T.P. ( Waste)water Treatment Plant/Pond Italics indicate name of county, parish, or municipality. VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 407 Atlantic Canada ^Killinek I. ^ Torngat Mtns. N. P. •Hebron • Nain LABRADOR LABRADOR Cape Harrison Hopedale ^ Cartwright * Gannef Island Schetferville (PQ) Mealy Smallwood Mins. c . m ^N.P Esker*?^ Goose Bay Ecological Reserve Slraii of Belle Isle . •Churchill Fails Labrador City ^ Wabosh QUEBEC Bathurst • L'Anse-aux-Meadows • St, Anthony Gander NEWFOUNDLAND V eras * m .Bonavisla ■ Mome c. i^hn'e t!i p Nova _SI, John s 'Corner ^ Brook . Peninsula Port-aux- ^^’^Cape ra , Saint-Pie, re \ Charlotte- CaPo^ strait et Miauelon _ , ''East “Cape Breton High/andsW.P I Sydney Cape Breton I. Moncton^,: A •Cans© P,E.I^ “ , <_ NEW /BRUNSWICK T':'7"«b . RedeJclon.S y, . NOVA SCOTIA ). Connecticut’s 5th White-faced Ibis This Brown Booby, representing only the fourth for fifth record for Massachusetts and the first ever photographed, was found in Hull in late June or early July of 2005. It was standing on a busy beach filled with sunbathers, kite-fliers, and dogs. The photographer was a non- birder/passerby who clicked this shot with his cell phone and emailed it (albeit two years later) to Mass Audubon's Wildlife Infor- mation Line for an identification. Photograph by Marc Quigley. 414 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS NEW ENGLAND r A The remarkable, sudden colonization of New England by Sandhill Cranes continued this spring. A new all-time high J 11 total of roughly 27 Sandhill reports did not include the several (four or five) nesting pairs in Maine. The Bay State's 2nd Breeding Bird Atlas project got off to a fast and auspicious start when, shortly after the early Apr launch of the first Atlas field season, a resident in New Marlboro, Berkshire, MA added Sandhill Crane to the state list of breeding species with her dis- covery of a pair of ads. and a coit (S. Mullen). A pair of Sandhills that, for the past two years, had attempted but failed to fledge young in Bristol, VT returned to the same site again this year, but the outcome of their most recent effort is not yet known. Despite the presence this spring of a single Sandhill in Munroe, NH for the ninth consecutive year, no evidence of breeding has yet been found. Nonetheless, with birds now nesting in Maine, Vermont, and Massachusetts, the species is halfway through the process of colonizing all six states in the Region. Sandhills presumed to be migrating included 4 over Hollowell, ME 31 Mar (J. Wells) and 3 over Ludlow, VT 1 May (C. Johnson). The latest of 16 Bay State reports this season in- cluded 2 in Northfieid 18 May (M. Marcheilo) and 2 in Quincy 20-21 May (J. Poggi, ph.). Except for the two longer plumes emerging from its bushy crest, this possi- ble Little Egret x Snowy Egret hybrid at Nantucket, Massachusetts 16 May 2007 appeared to be identical in plumage and structure to nearby Snowy Egrets. Another possible hybrid, found nine days later and roughly 1 1 kilo- meters away, lacked recurved aigrettes on the back, indicating that it was almost certainly a different individual. The color of the facial skin can fade quickly from reddish-orange (breeding condition) to yellow, making this feature less useful than plumage for differentiating individuals. Photo- graph by Eddie Ray. was at Hammonasset 18-22 Apr (R. Baacie et al., ph.) and one or 2 toured four towns (Newbury, Rowley Essex, and Topsfield) in Essex, MA 26 Apr+ (MD, ph. RSH, et al). Three of 4 wayward Glossy Ibis found in Cornwall, VT 30 Apr were still there 1 May (TGM). Black Vultures were reported again from all three northern-tier states, the north- ernmost of which were 2 near Burlington, VT 8 Apr (G. Askew). Closer to the source, be- fore roosts broke up in Mar, sample Black Vul- ture counts from three different interior re- gions of Connecticut included 31 in Kent Q- Dugan), 25 in Watertown (GH), and 7 in Storrs (S. Morytko). The early appearance of a Swallow-tailed Kite in Aquinnah, Martha’s Vineyard 16 Apr (N. Weaver) may have been associated with the Patriot’s Day Storm, which was just begin- ning to strengthen. Other more seasonable Swallow-tailed Kite reports included singles in Wellfleet, MA 5 May (D. Murley et al.) and Rochester, MA 16 May (L. West). A Missis- sippi Kite in Kensington, NH 24 Apr (D. Finch) might have been New Hampshire’s first. The N. Truro, MA hawkwatch site pro- duced a seasonal total of 5 Missis- sippis: one on 13 May, 2 on 16 May, and 2 on 30 May (D. Manchester et al). Others were in Greenwich, CT 27 May (B. O’Toole et al.) and Provincetown, MA 26 May (BN). By recent standards (the past 25 years), the total of 669 Broad- winged Hawks in Holyoke 23 Apr (TG) represented a very high spring count for the Region. The fifth of May marked the first day in the ten-year history of the Pilgrim Heights hawkwatch in North Truro, MA (“kite central”) on which the day total exceeded 300 birds (including vultures). Selected subtotals from the day-total of 302 included 44 Turkey Vultures, 4 Bald Eagles, 162 Sharp-shinned Hawks, 10 Cooper’s Hawks, 37 Broad-winged Hawks, and 12 Merlins (DM). GALLINULE THROUGH TERNS A Purple Gallinule adorned a small, backyard pond in Stratford, CT 29 Apr (S. Kruitbosch, The presence of this Wilson's Plover in West Haven, Connecti- cut 1 1 May 2007 came to light only after it had departed and the photographer submitted the image to surprised ex- perts for identification. Photograph by Robert White. m.ob., ph.). Considering that the species oc- casionally misses New England entirely in spring, the occurrence of at least 7 American Golden-Plovers was remarkable, especially be- cause half of the 6 total in Massachusetts were found in Apr, which is early. The Bay State birds were at P.I./Newbury 10-14 Apr (RSH), Orleans 22 Apr Q. Hoye et al.), Monoinoy 24 Apr and (same?) 3 May (BH), Tuckernuck L, Nantucket 5 May (RRV), and P.I. 18 May (MD); another was at Dead Creek W.M.A., Ad- dison, VT 22 May (R. Payne). Though Wilson’s Plover is nearly annual in Massachusetts of late, one at Sandy Pt., West Haven 11 May (ph. R. White) furnished Connecticut’s first record in 18 years. Plum I. hosted the Region’s only American Avocet 13-20 May (B. Murphy, m.ob., ph.) and one of the 2 Marbled Godwits 11-19 May Q- Fenton, m.ob., ph.); the other was in Edgartown, Martha’s Vineyard 7-10 To the delight of its many admirers, this Purple Gallinule re- mained in a small pond in Stratford, Connecticut from 29 April (here) through the remainder of the spring 2007 sea- son. Photograph by Julian Hough. Mar (R. Culbert) and then (presumably the same) at Monomoy 11 Apr (BH). If this latter individual was the same as the bird recorded a few months earlier on the C.B.C. nearby in Bourne, MA, it probably overwintered. A Black-tailed Godwit in Cornwall, VT 29-30 Apr (P. Folsom, m.ob., ph.) represented the first record for Vermont and the 5th for the Region, the four previous records being from Massachusetts. A very early male Ruff that was in basic plumage when first found in New- buryport, MA 8 Apr (D. Chickering, m.ob., ph.) had molted in much of its black ruff by the time it left 5 May. Three other Ruffs in- cluded a Reeve in Saco 19-21 May (E Mitchell et al), a Reeve in Westerly, RI 31 May (C. Raithel et al), and a black male at Ham- monasset 22 May (T. Antanaitis et al). A very early Short-billed Dowitcher was in Wake- field, Rl 17 Mar (C. Nunes et al). When and if they are definitively identified to species, early (and late) dowitchers in the Northeast usually prove to be Long-billed. As is often the VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 415 NEW ENGLAND This "phonescoped" image of an American Avocet at Plum Island, Massachusetts 13-20 (here 13) April 2007 was cap- tured with a cell phone through a spotting scope. Photo- graph by Richard Heil. case with spring storms, heavy snows associ- ated with a mid-Mar storm forced many American Woodcocks into urban areas and along plowed roads in search of open ground. Reports of this phenomenon were especially widespread in parts of Connecticut. In Downcast Maine along Rte. 1 in Machias, Jonesboro, and Columbia Falls, a systematic roadside count 24 Apr yielded 125-r display- ing woodcocks (N. Famous). A Red Phalarope in Newburyport, MA 17 Mar was very early (M. Goetschkes et al). Two South Polar Skuas were photographed 24 May at the fishing grounds known as the “Mud Hole” e. of Block I., R1 (ST et al., ph.), Very rare anywhere south of Canada in spring, this North- ern Wheatear was in Newport, Rhode Island 31 May 2007. Photograph by Robert Weaver. and a Parasitic Jaeger in Newburyport, MA 7 Apr (P Roberts et al.) was the Region’s earliest ever. A Forster’s Tern was at PI. 22 May (RSH). Even though Forster’s Tern has not been found breeding in New England since it was first con- firmed in Newburyport in 1991, spring records such as this one, in addition to other occasion- al sightings during the nesting season, support the theory that the species is probably still nesting locally, at least sporadically. By far, the most surprising waifs of the April Storm were One of these same two South Polar Skuas (left) illustrates the spedes' typical gray-brown plumage; Great Skua is dis- tinguished by bold yellow streaks and spots on the back and upperwings. Photograph by Paul L'Etoile. The sighting of a single South Polar Skua on any New Eng- land pelagic trip makes for a good day. This composite im- age showing two (right) off the coast of Rhode Island may represent a Regional first. Photograph by Carlos Pedro. Sooty Terns, which, on the rare occasions they do appear in the Northeast, usually do so only when they are transported by tropical storms in late summer and fall. A total of 5 included 3 flybys and one dead bird in coastal Rhode Is- land, plus one moribund bird in cen. Con- necticut that was found shortly before it died (Table 1). migrating American Robins parading east- ward along the shore of Bridgeport, CT 17 Mar (M. Aronson) must have made for an im- pressive sight. A Varied Thrush, first found at a feeder in Dublin, NH in Feb, lingered until 17 Apr (ph. G. Bartlett), but the thrush high- DOVES THROUGH WARBLERS A White-winged Dove that ap- peared at a feeder in Branford, CT in Feb remained through 31 May. Remarkably, it was joined by another 20-21 May (D. Lorello, ph.). The 2 birds were recognizable as different individuals by slight structural differences in their toes and bills. A Ruby-throated Hum- mingbird at Nantucket 18 Apr (S. Daniels) may have been an- other Storm waif. Single Scis- sor-tailed Flycatchers were re- ported from two localities in Massachusetts: Franklin 8 May (T. & K. Mongeon) and Fal- mouth 31 May (T. Stone). Common Ravens continue to reoccupy areas of their pre- colonial range. In Connecticut, this process was described as being “explosive”; the newest nesting “outpost” in Massachu- setts was in Waltham, just in- side Rte. 128, within clear view of downtown Boston. A two-hour total of 10,000-1- Table 2. Totals of selected species of migrant landbirds in northeastern Massachusetts, 15 and 19 May 2007. Location and date P.l. (15 May) Cape Ann (19 May) Observers RSH C. Caron, R. Jenkins Species Ruby-throated Hummingbird 44 0 Tree Swallow 2000-1- 0 Bank Swallow 200-f 0 Barn Swallow 300-f 0 Philadelphia Vireo 0 1 Gray Catbird ISO-t 224 Golden-winged Warbler 0 1 Northern Parula 65-f 254 Yellow Warbler 110-t 61 Chestnut-sided Warbler 19 48 Magnolia Warbler 120-1- 191 Black-throated Blue Warbler 80-f 41 Black-throated Green Warbler 140-f 0 Bay-breasted Warbler 2 31 Black-and-white Warbler 40+ 46 American Redstart 100+ 49 Common Yellowthroat 110+ 93 Wilson's Warbler 13 21 Yellow-breasted Chat 0 1 warbler species 500+ 300+ Clay-colored Sparrow 0 1 Lincoln's Sparrow 10 0 White-crowned Sparrow 5 0 416 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS NEW ENGLAND This Smith's Longspur, seen by a single observer in Westport, Connecticut 23 March 2007, represented the third state record. Another was present at Jones Beach, New York from early February through roughly mid-March. Photograph by Larry Flynn. light of the season was a Northern Wheatear in Middletown, R1 31 May (C. Avenengo et al., ph.). Wheatears are very rare in spring anywhere s. of Canada, yet this was the 2nd consec- utive spring in which one has oc- curred in the Region. A Barn Swallow in Eastham, MA 23 Mar (D. Clapp et al.) was a bit early. A fallout on the North Shore of Massachusetts 23 Apr included about 100 each of Ruby- crowned Kinglets and Hermit Thrushes in Marblehead (K. Haley) and 45 Hermit Thrushes at P.I. (TW). The next day, a high count of 139 Palm Warblers came from PI. (TW). A male Black-throated Blue Warbler that wintered in Boxford, MA re- mained at least until 18 Mar (ph. C. Fitch), and the well-documented Townsend’s Warbler that wintered in Cam- bridge, MA was last seen 10 Apr (ph., vt. J. Orr, L. Cohen, m.ob.). Am Audubon’s War- bler in Eastham, MA 1-27 Mar (ph. J. Han- son) probably also wintered. A Swainson’s Warbler that sang persistently but refused to reveal itself for several days at P.I. might have been dismissed as a Louisiana Waterthrush with an odd song if it had not flown into a mist net 24 May (b. J. Standley B. Gette, ph.); it lingered at least until 28 May. No details ac- companied the only Regional report of a Western Tanager at M.V 26 Mar. A huge push of migrant passerines at P.I. 15 May came just ahead of the aforementioned May storm that produced the modest seabird flight on the North Shore of Massachusetts. The deep southerly airflow ahead of that storm provided the impetus for this mass movement of landbirds, and a series of showers in the ear- ly morning hours of the 15th served to ground them. Another big concentration of migrants collected just to the e. of PI. on Cape Ann in the days immediately following this fallout. These were largely comprised of the same species that were recorded at PI. and were no doubt lingerers from that flight whose progress northward had been stalled by the incoming storm (Table 2). Another heavy flight, but with many fewer species, included 500+ Yellow- rumped Warblers and 100+ Palm Warblers in Freeport, ME 2 May (DL). SPARROWS THROUGH FINCHES A Grasshopper Sparrow at Gloucester, MA 23 Apr (ph. P. Cozza) was either an early mi- grant (Storm assisted?) or wintered locally. Much rarer in spring than they are in fall, sin- gle Lark Sparrows were found in Bloomfield, CT 20 Apr (S. Fried) and PL 10 May (G. Gove). A heavy snowfall in mid-Mar com- pelled big numbers of Fox Sparrows to con- verge on feeders or along the edges of plowed streets. In Connecticut, sample feeder counts included 10 in Sterling 19 Mar (R. Dixon), 14 in Litchfield 17 Mar (D. Rosgen), and 20 in Barkhamsted 18 Mar (FZ), and an amazing 54 were counted along the streets of Westport 17 Mar (FM). In New Hampshire 16- 26 Mar, 110+ were reported in Rock- ingham and Strafford alone (fide PH), and a sweep of coastal New Hamp- shire 18 Mar yielded a total of 45 (SM). An influx of migrant Song Sparrows at P.I. 26 Mar produced a high count of 274 (1. Davies), and a big movement of White-throated Sparrows 24 Apr was evidenced by counts of 740+ at P.I. (RSH) and 300 at Marblehead, MA (J. Offerman). A Harris’s Sparrow that appeared at a feeder in Georgetown on Christmas Day 2006 remained through at least 1 Mar (ph. A. O’Hare). A spate of classic trans-Gulf migrants, in- cluding tanagers, buntings, grosbeaks, and one oriole, were transported into the Region by the April Storm and appeared much earli- er than normal at various Massachusetts coastal sites during and in the immediate af- termath of the Storm. The most notable among these waifs was a Painted Bunting at M.V. 16-20 Apr (J. Ganapole, ph.). Table 3 summarizes the other species reported. An early Rose-breasted Grosbeak at Nantucket 14 Apr (L. Zimmerman) came in just ahead of the Storm. Bird of the Season was a Smith’s Longspur in Westport, CT 23 Mar (ph. L. Flynn), iden- tified later by photographs. A late Lapland Longspur was found in Westport, CT 3 May (FM). A slightly above-average total of 5 Yel- low-headed Blackbirds included individuals in Granby, MA 8 Apr (L. Rogers) and Nan- tucket, MA 29 May (O. Small), and reports of Table 3. Passerine fallout associated with the "Patriot's Day Storm," 16-21 April 2007, in coastal Massachusetts. Location Nantucket M.V. Chatham Provincetown Acushnet Rockport Gloucester Newbury Date 16 Apr 18 Apr 16 Apr 17 Apr 18 Apr 19 Apr 21 Apr 16 Apr 18 Apr 16 Apr 19 Apr 21 Apr 21 Apr Species Northern Parula KSH) Summer Tanager 1 {fide ER) Summer Tanager 1 (fide ER) Scarlet Tanager 2 (fide ER) 1 (AW) 3(SH) Rose-breasted Grosbeak KJG) 2(DS) 1(LL) Blue Grosbeak 4 (fide m 1(BK) 3(GM) 1(MF) KJS) 1 (B.O.) Indigo Bunting 1 (DN) 8(/jyeER) 2 (SA, FD) 1(CL) 1 Painted Bunting KJG) Baltimore Oriole 1 (DM) Observer(s): SA: S. Anderson; FD: F. Demers; MF: M. Flor, JG: J. Ganapole; SH: S. Hedman; BK: B. Kimberly; LL: L. Leka; CL: C. Longworth; GM: G. Martin; DM: D. Miller; DN: D. Nicholson; ER: Edie Ray; DS: D. Scott; JS: J. Standley; AW: A. Woodruff VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 417 NEW ENGLAND 3 different male Yellow-headeds in Rhode Is- land came from West Warwick 18 Mar (R. Touhill), Westerly 13 Apr (L, Gosselin), and North Kingston 14 May (]. Magill). On 13 Mar, a visitor to northernmost New Hampshire found hnches virtually every- where along the last roughly 80 km of road between Columbia and Pittsburg and the Canadian border. Purple Finches were the most abundant species; the day-total of 572 included 110 in Columbia, 100 in Clarksville, and 90 in Pittsburg. Pine Siskins numbered 510 on the day, and White-winged Crossbills totaled 135 (RSH). Many males of the latter two species were singing and displaying, and at least one siskin was seen collecting nesting material. The southernmost records of cross- bills included 2 White-wingeds in Canton, MA 26 May (E. Nielsen) and 6 Reds in Chatham, NH 19 Apr (B. Crowley). A Euro- pean Goldfinch visited a feeder in Pepperell, MA 28 Mar-4 Apr (ph. J. Nevard). Addendum: The presence of a Brown Booby on a beach in Hull, MA in “June or July of 2005” came to light when a non-birding beach- goer (ph. M. Quigley), requesting an identifica- tion, emailed photos of the bird (standing at his feet!) to Mass Audubon’s Wildlife Information Line. The photographer had taken the images with his cell phone! The small orange object on the sand nearby is a cheese cracker that a thoughtful passerby offered the bird. There are fewer than five previous records of Brown Boo- by in the Region; this was the hrst to be docu- mented photographically. Subregional editors (bold), contributors (italics), and observers: J. Berry, Bird Observ- er, P. A. Buckley, C. Caron, M. Daley, Rachel Farrell (Rhode Island), P. Flood, T. Gagnon, Greg Hanisek (Connecticut); B. Harris, R. S. Heil, Pam Hunt (New Hampshire), M. Kele- her, Seth Kellogg (w. Massachusetts), D. Lovitch, D. Manchester, E Mantlik, E. Master- son, S. Mirick, T. G. Murin, B. Nikula, M. Pe- likan (Martha’s Vineyard), S. Perkins, T. Pirro, E. Ray (Nantucket), Marj Rines (Massachu- setts), B. Sheehan, South Coast Bird Alert (Maine), S. Tsagarakis, T. Wetmore, T. Wright, R. R. Veit, E Zygmont. Simon Perkins, Mass Audubon 208 South Great Road, Lincoln, Massachusetts 01773 (sperkins@massaudubon.org) Hudson-Delaware Richard R. Veit Robert O. Paxton Frank Rohrbacher The Region’s weather was dominated by two major storms, on 16 March and 15-16 April. The storm in March brought record snowfalls to upstate New York and heavy rain and snow farther south. The second storm, though not tropical in origin, brought hurricane-force winds to the outer coast and dumped a foot of snow upstate, leaving thousands of residents without power. The April “hurricane” brought a diverse as- sortment of seabirds, including alcids and a Northern Fulmar to Cape May, and two Sooty Terns to Long Island, plus a host of early Neotropical migrants: showing up on Long Island 16-18 April during and immediately following the storm were Black-billed and Yel- low-billed Cuckoos, Ruby-throated Hum- This female Curlew Sandpiper at Heislerville, New Jersey was a bonus for teams on the World Series of Birding (here 10 May 2007). Photograph by George L Armistead. mingbird. Eastern Kingbird, 50 or more Barn Swallows, a Yellow- throated Warbler, about 25 Indigo Buntings, 7 Blue Grosbeaks, a few Rose-breasted Grosbeaks, and Scar- let and Summer Tanagers. Interest- ingly for some of these species like Rose-breasted Grosbeak and East- ern Kingbird, individuals appeared before the storm, suggesting that exceptionally early migration was apparently underway before the storm hit. The April storm clearly had some effect upon migrant passerines as far north as New Eng- land. The low-pressure systems that converged to form this “southeast- er” had their origins over Texas and the Gulf Coast. Some such storms in the past have been thought to transport trans-Gulf passerine migrants northwards earlier than normal, resulting in the sprinkling of Indigo Buntings and other birds along the northeast- ern coasts in April (see North American Birds 59: 409), although there is much variation in this theme, and storms that originate farther east, nearer Elorida or the Bahamas, typically have far more Indigo Buntings and other east- ern Gulf/Caribbean migrants. Many southern-nesting species were recorded in relatively high numbers in 2007: there were 31 Summer Tanagers this year in the north coastal area (vs. 23 in 2005) and 17 Blue Grosbeaks (10 in 2005). Kentucky War- bler was an exception, just barely; 12 were recorded in 2007, vs. 13 in 2005 and 16 in 2006). But most of the Summer Tanagers ap- peared either before the storm (one at Cape May 14 April) or well after it, while 7 of the 17 Blue Grosbeaks appeared during, or imme- diately after, the storm. So a substantial frac- tion of southern passerines occurring in our Region were not associated with storms and likely indicate population expansion, perhaps in response to climate change. Abbreviations: Amherst S.P. (Erie, NY); Aval- on (Avalon Seawatch, Cape May, NJ); Batavia (Batavia W.T.P., Genesee, NY); Bombay Hook (Bombay Hook N.W.R., Kent, DE); Braddock Bay (Braddock Bay B.O., Rochester, NY); Brig- antine (Forsyth N.W.R., Atlantic, NJ); Captree (Captree S.P, Suffolk, Long I., NY); Chazy (Chazy R. mouth, Clinton, NY); Derby Hill 418 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS HUDSON-DELAWARE This second-cycle Mew Gull, probably of the nominate subspecies (Com- mon Gull), was found at Brooklyn, New York, New York on 8 April 2007. Photograph by Andy Guthrie. (Derby Hill Hawkwatch, Oswego, NY); Ham- burg (Hamburg Hawkwatch, near Buffalo, NY); Hamlin Beach (Hamlin Beach S.P., near Rochester, NY); Iroquois (Iroquois N.W.R., Genesee/Orleans, NY); Jamaica Bay Qantaica Bay Wildlife Refuge, Gateway N.R, New York City); Jones Beach (Jones Beach S.R, South Shore of Long I., NY); Little Creek (Little Creek W.M.A., Kent, DE); Mannington (Man- nington Marsh, Salem, NJ); Montauk (Mon- tauk Pt., Suffolk, Long L, NY); Montezuma (Montezuma N.W.R., Seneca, NY); Moriches (Moriches Bay and Inlet, Suffolk, Long 1., NY); Palmyra Cove (Burlington, NJ); Pike’s Beach (Moriches Bay, Suffolk, Long I., NY), Prime Hook (Prime Hook N.W.R., Sussex, DE); Riis Park (Jacob Riis Park, Queens, New York City); Ripley (Ripley Hawkwatch, Chau- tauqua, NY); Robert Moses (Robert Moses S.P., Fire Island, Suffolk, Long 1., NY); Sagaponack (Sagaponack Pond, Bridgehamp- ton. Long L, NY); Sandy Hook (Sandy Hook Unit/Gateway National Recreation Area, Mon- mouth, NJ); Shinnecock (Shinnecock Bay and Inlet, Suffolk, Long 1., NY); Ted Harvey (Ted Harvey Conservation Area/Logan Lane Tract, Kent, DE); Tonawanda (Tonawanda W.M.A., Niagara/Genesee, NY). WATERFOWL THROUGH PELICANS About 14 Greater White-fronted Geese were seen, including 5 at Iroquois 7 Apr (Mike Galas, Gail Seamans, JP), and one described as having a clearly pink bill was at Watermill, Long I. 24 Mar (HM). Snow Geese continue to increase; higher counts include 200,000 on the ground in Ontario, NY 21 Mar (MC, LJ), 25,200 flying by Derby Hill and 18,500 past Hastings, Os- wego, NY, both 23 Mar (BPu). Five Ross’s Geese were reported, about av- erage for recent springs. A total of 25 Cackling Geese, mostly in w. New York, was near average for recent years. Five or more Black Brant win- tered in the New York Harbor area; these included 3 seen together at the n. end of Staten I., NY 2 Mar (SW, Ray Mattarrazzo). Fourteen hundred Tundra Swans were counted at Cayu- ga L. 18 Mar (TL), 600 at Hartland, Niagara, NY 22 Mar (Matthew Pestinger), and 130 at Brendan Byrne S.F, Burlington, NJ 16 Mar (LL). Fif- teen Eurasian Wigeons were found Regionwide, as were 5 Eurasian Teal, 3 on Long I. 3-21 Mar (BBe, HM, PSc), one at Brigantine 18-25 Mar Q- Danzenbaker et al.), and the last at Cape May 23 Mar (PEL et al.). There were substantial counts of waterfowl throughout the Region: 4000 Northern Pin- tails at Mannington and nearby Pedricktown 3 Mar (SK); 450 pintails at Cayuga Lake S.R 25 Mar (TL); 9000 Canvasbacks on the Ni- agara R. 20 Mar O^try Lazarczyk); 8000 Canvasbacks at Cayuga L. 3 Mar (TL); 16,000 Redheads at Cayuga L. 3 Mar (TL); 1500 Ring-necked Ducks at Cayuga Lake S.R 25 Mar (TL, TJ); and 375 Ring-neckeds at Whitesbog, Burlington, NJ 23 Mar (LL). A male Tufted Duck at Ausable Pt., Clinton, NY 23-25 Mar (BK, CM) was a rarity at that L. Champlain site. Numbers of scoters and other waterbirds were surveyed at Oneida L. by Bill Purcell: the peak of Surf Scoter mi- gration was 34 on 30 Apr and of White- wingeds 123 on 7 May. Twelve hundred White-wingeds and 3000 Surfs were at Mon- tauk 4 Mar (HM), relatively low totals for re- cent years. An ad. male King Eider was at Shinnecock Inlet 11-25 Mar (PJL, SSM, TWB), and 1800 Common Eiders were counted at Montauk 3 Mar (HM). A high Re- gional total of 13 Barrow’s Goldeneyes in- cluded 7 in the Adirondacks and 2 at Sandy Hook, male and female, of which the female remained until 20 Mar (m.ob.). Single Pacific Loons were at Deal, Mon- mouth, NJ 10-14 Mar (Tom Smith, Hal Smith, M. Bisagnano, Bruce McWhorter, SB et al.) and at Sheldrake Bluffs, Seneca, NY 18-24 Mar (CW, JG, TL). There were many reports of small groups of Red-necked Grebes distrib- uted over the interior of the Region, though the total number seen was much lower than has occurred during freeze-ups such as in 1977, 1994, and 2003. Larger counts includ- ed 46 at Onondaga L., Onondaga, NY 12 Apr (BPu), 44 at Oneida L. 5 May (BPu), 614 on Cayuga L., Monroe & Orleans, NY 23 Mar (RSp, D. Danials). Smaller numbers were seen on many lakes and reservoirs throughout the Region. Single Eared Grebes were seen at Au- rora Bay, Cayuga, NY 3-24 Mar (TL, TJ) and at Indian River Inlet, Sussex, DE 4 Mar (BGP). Two Greater Shearwaters seen from the beach at Cape May were quite early 29 Apr-1 May Qohan Antus, R. Notin); a few Sooty and Manx Shearwaters were seen off e. Long I. in late May; and a Cory’s Shearwater was seen from Democrat Pt., Suffolk, NY 31 May 0?)- A Northern Fulmar was seen from Cape May Pt. 15 Apr during the storm (ME), and anoth- er was 51 km s. of Shinnecock 27 May (fide SSM). An American White Pelican at Oneida L. 15 May (BPu) was unique this spring, and 2 Brown Pelicans were seen at Island Beach 31 May (Roger Jennings), rather early. Inland Great Cormorants included 2 ads. at Brad- dock Bay 8 May (DT) and one at Derby Hill 27 Apr (JvD). Two Anhingas were well de- scribed soaring over Ramshorn-Livingston, Greene, NY 2 May (Larry Federman et al). A female frigatebird, most likely a Magnificent, was seen over Cape May 31 May (Sandra Campbell, CH). HERONS THROUGH RAPTORS Herons unusually far n. included a Snowy Egret at Niagara Falls 20-21 May (BOS), a Tri- colored Heron at Iroquois 28-30 May (Susan & Tom O’Donnell, m.ob.), 3 Plegadis ibis, one of which was certainly Glossy, in the Buffalo area 10-20 May (Paul Hess, JP et al), and 2 other Glossies in the Oneida Lake Basin 19 C A ^ first reported as a Little Egret at Bombay Hook 6 Apr (APE et al.) was later thought to be a Snowy Egret x Lit- tie Egret hybrid. The egret had two elongate head plumes, like Little, but did not differ markedly from Snowy in ei- ther structure, plumage, or bare parts coloration. Similar birds have been seen in Massachusetts (2006, 2007) and elsewhere. Contrary to rumors, mixed breeding pairs of Snowy and Little Egrets have not been found at Barbados, the only place the two species are known to breed sympatrically. Indeed, the evidence from Barbados is that Snowies and Littles breed at the same locations w/f/rouf forming mixed pairs, so that they seem to be reproductively isolated at least there (Buckley, P. A. et al. 2007. The Birds of Barbados. B.O.U. Check-list. No. 24. London, British Ornithologists Union). The Delaware and Massachusetts birds may well be hybrids nonetheless; more attention to such birds may shed light on this interesting situation. VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 419 HUDSON-DELAWARE This Clay-colored Sparrow was mist-netted at Island Beach State Park, New Jersey on 20 May 2007. Photograph by Diane Bennett-Chase. May (BPu, B. Best), There were two sightings of imm. White Ihis in Delaware, likely involv- ing the same bird: one at Delaware Seashore S.P., Sussex 12 May (APE) and the other at Prime Hook 15 May (FR). Five or 6 White- faced Ibis were reported: one at Jones Beach 29 Apr (TWB, GB), 4 in New Jersey 29 Apr-20 May, and one at Prime Hook 5-15 May (BGR FR), on the latter date with the White Ibis. Black Vultures continue their expansion, at their own slow and dignihed pace, through the Northeast. The more far-ranging ones this spring were at Ripley 8 May (Fen DeFrancis- co), Ellenburg, Clinton, NY 17 May (EDT) for a hrst county record, singles at Derby Hill 3 & 5 Apr, and one at Stargazer, Suffolk, Fong I., NY 21 Mar Qoe Polashock). Peak counts of Turkey Vultures at Hamburg and Ripley were 2503 and 2453, respectively, on 26 Mar, rep- resenting a large movement of this increasing species. The hrst Mississippi Kite of the spring was at Cape May 30 Apr (WM, SM); thereafter singles included a subad. at Doo- dletown Rd. near Bear Mt., Orange, NY 12 May (]. DiConstanzo, J. Dorman et al.) and one of unspecihed age at Stafford Farm Trails, Camden, NJ 12 May (DM). The peak at Cape May was of 13 birds 19 May (FZ, PEF et al.), and 6 were still there 28 May. The volume of hawk migration (see ) was about average this spring, following a rather poor season in 2006. Peak flights occurred 23 & 27-30 Apr and 8 & 15 May at the major New York hawkwatches and 30 Apr at Cape Henlopen, DE. An imm. dark-morph Swainson's Hawk flew over Braddock Bay 11 May (DT), the only one reported this spring. A dark-morph Western Red-tailed Hawk was seen at Ham- burg 3 Apr (WD’A); calurus has probably been underreported in the past but is certain- ly rare. Thirty Rough-legged Hawks at Day- ton, Cattaraugus, NY was an impressive total 31 Mar (BOS), as was 19 at BCF Pond Field, Tompkins, NY 3 Mar (StK). A gray-morph Gyrfalcon was observed feeding on a duck at Plattsburgh, ClitUon, NY 8 Mar (BK). RAILS THROUGH ALCIDS Reports of both Yellow and Black Rails are in- creasing. A Yellow Rail was heard calling at Jakes banding. Cape May, NJ 23 Apr (MO’B et al.), as was a Black Rail at Port Mahon Rd., Kent, DE 15 May (Forrest Rowland), a site where the species has not bred in years. A Clapper Rail at Shinnecock 21 Mar (KF) may have wintered there. Two ad. Purple Gallinules were found, one at Wreck Pond, Monmouth, NJ 20 Apr-12 May (M. & M. Mc- Morrow, JC, Nick Taylor) and another at Cape May 5 May (CH). Sandhill Cranes continue to increase; 20 were in Youngstown, Niagara, NY 14 Mar (Fynne Fandon), and 9 flew over Hamburg 25 Mar, as did 14 others 10 May (Fran Rew). Four flew over John Fitzpatrick’s home in Tompkins, NY 31 Mar, and 7 others were scattered s. to Cape May through mid- May. A Whooping Crane from the recent reintroduction project returned to Lewis, NY for the 3rd consecutive year QSB). The largest aggregation of Black-bellied Plovers reported was of 380 at Heislerville, Cum- berland, NJ 29 May (VE). Four American Gold- en-Plovers were reported: one at Batavia 25 Apr (Mike Zebehazy, Linda McElvany), one at Sagaponack 27 Apr (HM), one at Brigantine 29 Apr (PB), and one at Stone Harbor, Cape May, NJ 21 May Qohn Donnelly, Dana Graham). A Wilson’s Plover was at Brigantine 27 May (Steve Walter); this species has been reported with in- creasing frequency in recent spring seasons and may recolonize its former (nineteenth-century) breeding range in s. New Jersey. Northerly Black-necked Stilts included 2 in the Heislerville-Bivalve area, Cumberland, NJ 9-10 May (CJV et al.) and 2 at Colt’s Neck, Mon- mouth, NJ 14-15 May (Andrew Spears, Sam Skinner). The largest count of Greater Yel- lowlegs was 500 at Raccoon Creek Marsh, Gloucester, NJ 19 Apr (SK). A Western Willet, uncommon in spring, was at Heislerville, Cum- berland, NJ 29 May (VE). Two Willets were in St. Lawrence, NY 4-5 May (Ken Kogut et al.); all in- land New York specimens are inomata. The highest counts of Whimbrels were 80 at Num- my’s I., Cape May, NJ 15 Apr (RC) and 140 at Brigantine 29 Apr (PB). Single Marbled Godwits were at Mispillian, Sussex, DE 25 Apr, at Num- my’s I. 9 May, at Reeds Beach, Cape May, NJ 13 May, and far inland at Tonawanda 5-7 May (WW, WD’A et al), the last representing a 2nd record for that region. There seemed to be a fair- ly strong crop of Horseshoe Crab eggs this spring, and these were well attended by shore- birds. Six thousand Ruddy Turnstones were at Port Mahon Rd, Kent, DE 16 May (APE), 1930 (a record high count for New York) were at Shinnecock 19 May (PJL, SSM), and 25 at Chazy was a high count for that L. Champlain locality ^ A A Crested Caracara flew by the Sandy Hook hawkwatch 5 May (CB, SB, IM, Donna Juettner). Another or perhaps the same bird appeared at Martha's Vineyard, MA 15 May. Most extralimital records ofcaracaras in the past have been dismissed as probable escapees. Yet Crested Caracaras are expanding their range in Texas and have dispersed widely to the West Coast in recent years. In addition, there are three records of vagrants from Ontario and one from New Brunswick. ISIS () lists a total of 14 captive Crested Caracaras in the United States, all in Florida and Texas except for one in Grand Rapids, Ml. The evidence available thus favors birds in the Northeast being wild vagrants. 420 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS HUDSON-DELAWARE (BK, CM). High counts included 2700 Red Knots at Mispillian Light, Kent, DE 12 May (FR), 3300 Sanderlings at Shinnecock 19 May (PJL, SSM), 665 Least Sandpipers at Sagaponack 11 May (HM), 15,000 Semipalmated Sandpipers at Heislerville, Cumberland, NJ 29 May (VE), 2000 Semipalmateds at Port Mahon Rd., Kent, DE 16 May (APE), and 70+ White-rumped Sandpipers at Brigantine 27 May (PB). A West- ern Sandpiper at Pike’s Beach, Moriches Bay 20 May was rare for the Region in spring (HM, BKa et al), and a Semipalmated Sandpiper at Belford, Monmouth, NJ 17 Apr (TBo) was early. It was a big spring for Curlew Sandpipers, perhaps the biggest since the 1950s: 3 were at Heislerville, Cumberland, NJ 30 Apr-17 May (CJV, Ed Deal,- K. Rieker et al), one at Brigantine 10 & 22 May (C. Cox et al.), and one at Stone Harbor, Cape May, NJ 16 May (CJV). A Stilt Sandpiper at Jake’s Landing, Cape May, NJ 20-21 Apr (Bill & Jane Welsh) was early; one at Iroquois 27-28 May (WD’A, BP) was unexpected there. The sin- gle Ruff of the spring was near Pedricktown, Gloucester, NJ, the traditional Ruff aggregation spot of the 1970s and 1980s, 14-22 Apr (DM, m. ob.). Some 120 Short-billed Dowitchers at Chazy 28 May (BK, CM) made a high count for the L. Champlain area. Storms this spring coin- cided with the northward migration of Common Snipe: 200+ were counted at Mannington 2 Apr (SB et al), and 600+ were in Oswego, NY 7-9 Apr (BPu). Single Wilson’s Phalaropes were at Oceanside, Long I. 2-4 May (Mike Farina) and at Prime Hook 21 Apr (FR); a pair, seen copu- lating once, was at Iroquois 20-28 May (PY, WD’A, WW, David Mark). Red-necked Phalaropes were seen at Brigantine 27 May (Tom Bailey), at Stone Harbor, Cape May, NJ 19 May (2; Alfred Ulmer), and at Pike’s Beach 27 May (Seth Ausubel). A scattering of Parasitic Jaegers was report- ed during May, with a maximum of 4 at Cape May 19 May (S. Galick, CJV). Nineteen Little Gulls were at the Lewiston Docks on the Ni- agara R. 20 Mar (BOS); about 25 others in- cluded one at Chazy 30 May (BK) for a 3rd county record. About 10 Black-headed Gulls were reported, all at the coast except one at L. Assunpink, Monmouth, NJ 10 Mar (PJ). An ad. Mew Gull at Spruce Run Res., Hunterdon, NJ 4 Mar (Michael Newlon) and again 1-2 Apr (fide SB) would be a first for New Jersey. Another Mew Gull, this one in second-cycle plumage, was at Marine Park, Brooklyn, NY 8-12 Apr (AW, m.ob.). A first-cycle Thayer’s Gull was nicely photographed at Stevenson Rd., Tompkins, NY 10-12 Mar (TL, JG, TJ). About 15 Iceland and 7 Glaucous Gulls were reported Regionwide. Of about 50 Lesser Black-backed Gulls, the only concentrations were of 12 at Cherry Island Landfill, Newcas- This Bullock's Oriole at Phoenicia, Ulster County, New York 9 March 2007 was one of many found in late winter and early spring east and north of typical range. Photograph by Lloyd Spitalnik. tie, DE 17 Mar (Mike Smith et al.) and 30 at Spruce Run Res., Hunterdon, NJ 10-14 Mar (FS). Coastal observers remarked on the fre- quency with which Gull-billed Terns were seen; 16 were at Brigantine 13 May (PB), and 5 were reported at Jones Beach on several dates in May. The count of 131 Caspian Terns at Dunkirk Harbor, Erie, NY 3 May is a typi- cal count for an inland site, whereas 10 at Mecox 26 Apr (HM) was a substantial flock for the coast. A Sandwich Tern at Sandy Hook 18 Apr (Dave LaPuma) was far n. for that date and may have been influenced by the 15 Apr storm. An Arctic Tern at Cape May 8 May (S. Kacir, T. Croasdale) adds another to the in- creasing list of spring migrants seen there, while 3 Common Terns at Lancaster, Erie, NY 12 Apr (MM) were early. Four Forster’s Terns at Myer’s Pt., Tompkins, NY 27 Apr (TL) were noteworthy. Least Terns arrived early with the 15 Apr storm: singles were seen at Man- asquan Inlet, Ocean, NJ 17 Apr (BR) and Stat- en L, NY 16 Apr (RRV). Two Sooty Terns ap- peared after the 15 Apr storm: one was picked up exhausted 16 Apr at Westhampton, Suf- folk, Long 1. (HM), and the other was found dead in the same area two weeks later (HM). This is unusually early for Sooty Tern, as al- most all records n. of Virginia are from late summer and fall, usually but not always dur- ing or following tropical storms. Five other Sooty Terns were reported from New England as a result of this unusually strong Apr storm. Also during the storm, 5 large alcids and a Dovekie were seen at Cape May Pt. (MF). DOVES THROUGH WOODPECKERS Of annual occurrence in the Region now, sin- gle 'White-winged Doves were at Cape May 30 Mar-9 Apr (Barb Bassett, m.ob.) and at Bombay Hook 20 May (Gary Zylkuski, Adri- enne Papazian). Single Eurasian Collared- Doves were at Sandy Hook 11 May QO and Cape May 23 May (MO’B). A Yellow-billed Cuckoo at Sandy Hook 18 Apr (BR) was ear- ly. The latest of 7 Short-eared Owls reported was one at Jake’s Landing, Cape May, NJ 14 Apr (CJV), and 3 Long-eared Owls were at Goldenhill S.P., Niagara, NY 13-18 Mar (BOS). A migrant Chuck-will’s-widow was seen in Central Park 3 May (Andy Guthrie, m.ob.), and at least 2 others were on territory at now-traditional sites on e. Long 1. in early May (HM). A count of 66 Whip-poor-wills at Lakehurst N.A.S., Monmouth, NJ (SB) is a sig- nificant number, especially given the recent substantial decreases in abundance of this species. Obvious migrant Red-headed Wood- peckers were seen at Cape May 5 & 12 May, and a migrant Hairy Woodpecker was there on the latter date (PEL). An American Three- toed Woodpecker was seen at the traditional location near Ferd’s Bog, Hamilton/Herhimer, NY 23 May (Gary Lee), and a total of 7 Black- backed Woodpeckers was tallied among sev- eral localities in the Adirondacks. FLYCATCHERS THROUGH WARBLERS One hundred and fifty Eastern Kingbirds at Sandy Hook 12 May (TBo) was a count indica- tive of the volume of the passerine migration there on that day. A Western Kingbird at Cape May 12 May (PDu, WCR, DF) is one of an in- creasing number of spring records of this species, more typically seen in fall. Loggerhead Shrikes, virtually extirpated as breeders in the Region and especially rare at the coast, were seen at Derby Hill 27 Apr (T. Carrolan, Cheri Sassman) and Cape May 11 May (Keith Dedrick, John Collins). Common Ravens at the border of their current range include 4 at Blairstown, Warren, NJ 11 Mar (Dana Beaton, Alan Boyd) and 2 at Garret Mt., Passaic, NJ 28- 29 Apr. Two hundred Northern Rough- winged Swallows at Sandy Hook 23 Apr (PJ) made a high coastal count for spring. Five Bicknell’s Thrushes were heard singing on Porter Mt., Es- sex, NY 19-20 May (Matthew D. Medler). About 16 Orange-crowned Warblers were recorded throughout the Region, a near-aver- age total for recent years. Three Brewster’s and 4 Lawrence’s Warblers were reported Region- wide. Six Yellow-throated Warblers were found (n. of s. New Jersey), the earliest 14 Apr in Belmar, Monmouth, NJ (NT); this count is far below the totals of the past two springs (16 and 10, respectively). A Yellow- VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 421 HUDSON-DELAWARE throated Warbler arrived at Allegheny S.P., Cattaraugus, NY 13 May QP, RSp) at a site where they have bred for many years. A Blackpoll Warbler at North Cape May 29 Apr (J. Guerard) was slightly early but typical of recent first arrival dates. Reports of Cerulean Warblers included 17 at Howland I., Cayuga, NY 19 May, 7 at West Monroe, Oswego, NY 19 May, and 5 at Cape May 12 May (CJV et ah). Twelve Prothonotary Warblers were found in the New York City/Long 1. area, the earliest 18 Apr; this is about half the 2005 total. Twenty- one Worm-eating Warblers were found in the same area, the earliest on 23 Apr. A Swain- son’s Warbler was at Sandy Hook 18 Apr (SB, CB, LM et ah), the only one of the spring. Twelve Kentucky Warblers were reported in the New York City/Long 1. area (vs. 13 in 2005), the earliest being 28 Apr; one at Tifft N.P, Erie, NY 26 May (Doug Happ) was un- usual for Buffalo. Hooded Warblers in the downstate area numbered 20, with the earliest found 18 Apr. SPARROWS THROUGH DICKClSSEL A Clay-colored Sparrow was banded at Island Beach S.P 20 May (Mary Doscher); the species was reported as scarce in the upstate New York areas where they have bred in re- cent years. A presumed Clay-colored Sparrow X Field Sparrow hybrid was present at Round Valley, Hunterdon, NJ until 2 May (m.ob.). Three hundred Chipping Sparrows were at Sandy Hook 2 May (TBo). Vesper Sparrows were frequently reported this spring. A male Lark Bunting at Blaisdell, Erie, NY 19 May (Tina Schultz, Danielle Pecoraro) furnished one of the few Regional spring records. A Le Conte’s Sparrow discovered in Feb at Abbott’s Meadow W.M.A., Sflieiii remained until at least 15 Mar (PJD), a rare instance of winter- ing in New Jersey. Five Henslow’s Sparrows were noted on territory along Goodrich Rd., Schoharie, NY 31 May (WY). There was a big movement of Fox Sparrows this spring, some of which were forced out of the thickets by snowstorms; 50+ on Staten T, NY 18 Mar (RRV); 33 at Three Rivers W.M.A., Onondaga, NY 30 Mar (G. Dashnau); 31 in Porter and Wilson, Niagara, NY 7 Apr (WD'A); 27 at Mad Horse Creek W.M.A., Salem, NJ 18 Mar (T. Bailey); 23 at Jersey City, Hudson, NJ 14 Mar (Mark Benson); and 21 at Garret Mt., Passaic, NJ 23 Mar (Chris Takacs); and a high 165 in the Rochester area 12 Apr (BOS). On the major flight day of 2 May, 5000-10,000 White-throated Sparrows were estimated at Sandy Hook (TBo, CB), as were 45+ White- crowned Sparrows. A female Oregon Junco was photographed at Wilson, Niagara, NY 6- 9 Apr (WD’A). A Harris’s Sparrow was pho- tographed at Batavia 1 Mar-9 May (Gerhard Leubner et ah). A male Black-headed Grosbeak was clearly photographed at Newfane, Niagara, NY 5-11 May (fide JP). Seventeen Blue Grosbeaks ap- peared, the earliest of these seen 18 Apr at Sandy Hook, followed by 5 at Jones Beach and Robert Moses 20-22 Apr. Twelve Indigo Buntings appeared 16 Apr at Robert Moses, and these included one possible Indigo Bunting x Lazuli Bunting hybrid (SSM, PJL); 4 other Indigos were at Sandy Hook 18 Apr (TBo). Three Dickcissels flew over Cape May 12 May; singles were at Reliance, Sussex, DE 16 May (Glen Lovelace) and Mannington 30 May (FL); and a pair was seen feeding young at Readington, Hunterdon, NJ 31 May (David Harrison et ah). BLACKBIRDS THROUGH FINCHES On the major flight day of 12 May, 225 Bobolinks were counted passing over Sandy Hook (TBo). A Western Meadowlark sang at Ripley 22 Apr-12 May (Tim Baird, WD’A, JP, m.ob.). Since the eastward surge of this species in the 1960s and 1970s, Westerns have been scarce, and this furnished the first local record since 1992. A male Yellow-head- ed Blackbird was at Taghhanic Park, Colum- bia, NY 19 Mar (Allan & Phyllis Wirth). Higher counts of the declining Rusty Black- bird include 400 at Fairfield, Essex, NJ 31 Mar-1 Apr (Glenn Mahler, Mark Benson) and 200 at Montezuma 27 Mar QG, CW). Eight Brewer’s Blackbirds were at Pennsville, Salem, NJ 2-7 Apr (SB, PJD). Three Orchard Orioles were banded quite far n. at Crown Pt., Essex, NY 12-18 May (EDT). Purple Finches were scarce during winter in the coastal parts of the Region, so counts of 50+ at Blue Ridge, Essex, NY and Sabattis Bog, Hamilton, NY are of interest. Forty or more Red Crossbills were at Sabattis Bog, Hamilton, NY 1 Mar (LM), and 40 were at North Lake, Essex, NY 2 Apr (LM). Thirty-two Red Cross- bills were at Colton, St. Lawrence, NY 11 Mar (LM), and a pair with 2 recently fledged young was seen at nearby Low’s Ridge 12 May QSB). Twenty White-winged Crossbills were at Sabattis Bog 1 Mar and 5 at North Lake 2 Apr (LM). Hundreds of Evening Grosbeaks were reported in Newcomb, Essex, NY 12 Mar (Ellen Rathbone), proving that they are not yet quite gone from our Region! Observers (subregional compilers in bold- face): Deborah Allen (Central Park), Pete Bacinski (New Jersey), Scott Barnes (North Coast Region, NJ: Sandy Hook B. O., P. O. Box 553, Ft. Hancock, NJ 07732), Gail Benson, Bob Berlingeri (BBe), Michael Bochnik (Hud- son-Delaware region, NY: 86 Empire St., Yonkers, NY 10704), Tom Boyle (TBo), Buffa- lo Ornithological Society (BOS), Chris Brown, Thomas W. Burke (New York Rare Bird Alert), Barbara Butler (Dutchess, NY), Jeffrey S. Bolsinger (St. Lawrence region, NY), Joe Car- ragher, Richard Crossley, Marilyn Clary, D. Daniels, Willie D’Anna, John van Dort, Paul J. Driver (sw. New Jersey: 915 Melrose Ave., Elkins Park, PA 19027), Pete Dunne (PDu), Andrew P. Ednie (New Castle and Kent, DE: 59 Lawson Ave., Claymont, DE 19703), Vince Elia (South Coast and Delaware Bay Regions, NJ: CMBO R&E Center, 600 Rte 47 North, Cape May Courthouse, NJ 08120), Ken Eeustel, Don Freiday John Fritz, Mike Fritz (MFr), Mark S. Garland (Cape May, NJ), Jeff Gerbracht, Kevin C. Griffith (Genesee Re- gion, NY: 61 Grandview Lane, Rochester, NY 14612), Chris Hajduk, Armas E. Hill (Philadelphia Birdline), Phil Jeffrey, Tom John- son, Lynn Jacobs, Brian Kane (BKa), Sandra Keller, Steve Kelling (StK), Bill Krueger, Robert J. Kurtz, Laurie Larson (New Jersey), Anthony J. Lauro, Patricia J. Lindsay, Paul E. Lehman, Frank Lenik, Tim Lenz, Len Little, Linda Mack, Dave Magpiong, Stuart Malmid, Wendy Malmid, Lawrence Master, Hugh McGuinness (e. Long L, NY: P.O. Box 3005, Southampton, NY 11969), Charles Mitchell, Shai S. Mitra (Long 1. and New York City, NY; P.O. Box 142, Brightwaters, NY 11718), Mike Morgante (MMo; Niagara Frontier region, NY: 59 Briar Hill Road, Orchard Park, NY 14127), Michael O’Brien, Bill Ostrander (Finger Lakes region, NY; 80 Westmont Ave., Elmira, NY 14904), Jim Pawlicki, Bruce G. Peterjohn, John M. C. Peterson (Adirondack-Champlain Region, NY; 477 County Rte. 8, Elizalaeth- town, NY 12932), Betsy Potter, Bill Purcell (BPu; Oneida Lake Basin, NY: 281 Baum Road, Hastings, NY 13076), Bill Resotko, William C. Russell, Peter Scully (PSc), Frank Sencher, Jr. (nw. New Jersey: 43 Church Rd. Milford, NJ 08848), Robert & Susan Spahn (RSp; Genesee Ornithological Society), Lloyd Spitalnik, Pat Sutton (Cape May B.O.), Eve D. Ticknor, David Tetlow, Christopher J. Vogel, William Watson, Chris Wood, Seth Woolney Will Yandik (Hudson-Mohawk NY: 269 Schneider Road, Hudson, NY 12534), Peter Yoerg, Robert P Yunick, Louise Zemaitis. Richard R. Veit, Biology Department CSI-CUNY, 2800 Victory Boulevard Staten Island, New York 10314 (veitrr2003@yahoo.com) Robert 0. Paxton, 460 Riverside Drive, Apt. 72 New York, New York 10027, (rop1@columbia.edu) Frank Rohrbacher, 5 Neva Court Wilmington, Delaware 19810, (rohrbaf@aol.com) 422 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS Middle Atlantic TN ^E. Shore ot Virginia NWR A= Huntley Meadows County Park nr B= Hunting Creek ■ “C. pgffj^gn, Air s^^^ori Os Pt. Lookout SP MARVLAND •Virginia Beach '^BackBayNWR Todd IVI. Day Edward S. Brinkley The spring was marked, as is sometimes the case this season, with warm spells through late March into April but a re- versal of fortune later in the season: northerly and easterly winds that persisted from late April into the middle of May meant a delay in migration for many species, a late spring. Some observers noted that Neotropical mi- grants, particularly May migrants, were a week or more later than usual in appearing. The Region remains on the edge of drought conditions; though certainly not as bad as central North Carolina, most parts of Virginia were drier than normal, with reservoirs re- duced and typically productive shorebird habitats in some cases bone-dry. Abbreviations: Assat. (Assateague I., Worces- ter, MD); C.B.B.T. (Chesapeake Bay Bridge- Tunnel, Northampton and Virginia Beach, VA); D.C. (District of Columbia); Forman’s Br. (Forman’s Branch B.O., Queen Anne’s, MD); Hart (Hart Miller I., Baltimore, MD). WATERFOWL THROUGH HERONS Reports of noteworthy waterfowl were mostly below average, with scoters and Long-tailed Ducks being notable exceptions. A lone Greater White-fronted Goose from Bells Lane, Staunton, VA 1 Mar supplied the only report for the Region (AL). The sole report of Ross’s Goose was one seen 8 Mar at Whiton, Wicomico, MD (SHD). A Barnacle Goose at Lilypons, Frederick, MD 21 Apr lacked exten- sive details (Michael O’Brien). Three reports of Cackling Geese made it to early Mar; 6 at Verona, Augusta, VA was the most notable count (AL). Two Mute Swans at Accotink Bay, Fairfax, VA 27 May bear watching (KGa); widespread breeding of these swans in this heavily populated portion of the Potomac R. that straddles state lines would be difficult to manage. The 2 patagial-tagged Trumpeter Swans frequenting Prince George’s (tagged “962”) and Anne Arundel (tagged “960”), MD were seen through 6 & 18 May, re- spectively (m.ob., MS). The male Eurasian Wigeon that wintered at Ridgeway Park, Hamp- ton, VA was last reported 10 Mar (Ben Copeland); Maryland had 3 birds lingering from winter, none re- ported beyond 4 Mar (PC, Pete Webb, Brian Rollfinke). An Ameri- can Wigeon at Swoope, Augusta was late 21 May (AL). Blue-winged Teal were seen in two potential breeding areas in Maryland: a drake 26 May at Hart (EJS et al.) and a pair at Pickering Cr., Talbot 27 May (TF et al.). The impressive number of Common Eiders at Ocean City, Worcester, MD was whittled down to 7 and last reported 4 Mar (Danny Poet); an imm. male was seen at Assat. 28 Apr and 12 May (MLH). A brace of Surf Scoters was reported 16 Apr at the inland Forman’s Br. OGr); one was near Crozet, Albemarle, VA (Jennifer Gaden). The number of White-winged Scot- ers reported away from the ocean was well above average. There were five reports of as many as 3 birds along the Potomac R. 12 Mar-14 Apr, between Montgomery and Charles, MD. Five other reports came from other scattered inland locations, with no more than 2 birds 8 Mar-29 Apr, the latest be- ing at Burke L., Fairfax (ph. Allen Hart). An imm. drake Black Scoter was at Violettes Lock, Montgomery, MD 21 May (DCz, Andy Martin). Long-tailed Ducks were similarly well reported. Nine inland locations in the Region boasted birds, with five of the reports 24 Mar. All of these were of a minimum of 6 birds, with 13 flying over Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, D.C. (Paul Pisano) and 18 at Beaver- dam Res., Loudoun (GK, MAK). Other reports were as late as 18 Apr. Two Common Gold- eneyes were on the Potomac R. off Great Falls, Montgomery 21 May (Mike Bowen). The season’s high count for Bufflehead was ca. 1000 at Holland Pt., Anne Arundel 1 Apr (TMD). Hooded Mergansers were confirmed breeding in seven counties between the two states: in Maryland in Allegany, Morrtgomery, Queen Anne’s, Frederick, and Worcester and in- Virginia in Fauquier and Fairfax. Common Mergansers were confirmed breeding in two locations in Maryland: a hen with 14 downy young was seen 25 Apr and 12 May near Vio- lette’s Lock, Montgomery, where breeding had been confirmed in the previous two springs (DCz, RW); a hen and 7 downy young were at a new location, Buffalo Run, Garrett, MD 12 May (FP). Red-throated Loons were found inland 24 Mar at Kerr Res., Mecklenburg, VA (AD); 2 were seen at Violettes Lock 4 Apr (DCz); and one was at Liberty L., Carroll, MD 19-24 Apr (RFR, m.ob.). Some 200 Common Loons were on the water at Carvins Cove, Botetourt, VA 14 Apr, with 165 there the following day (MP). One hundred Horned Grebes were counted from Seneca, Montgomery, MD 24 Mar (DCz). An Eared Grebe was at Pt. Look- out, Saint Mary’s, MD 3 Mar (HY, Gemma Radko). A Sooty Shearwater was seen from shore 12 May at Assat. (Clive Harris). The impressive flock of American White Pelicans that win- tered at Blackwater N.W.R., Dorchester, MD dwindled to 10 by 24 Mar and was last re- ported 13 May (PC et al); one was at Craney 1. 2 Mar (DCl); and another was at Lynnhaven Inlet, Virginia Beach 13 Mar (RB). An ad. male Anhinga reported from Bellyache Swamp 20 May (Brenda Tekin) is suggestive of breeding, as the species was reported in numbers here in 2006, but breeding has nev- er been confirmed in the Region. Thirty Great Blue Herons were seen amid active nests 13 Mar near Saltville, along the n. fork of the Holston R., Smyth, VA (Allen Boynton). A Glossy Ibis was well inland at Bells Lane, Au- gusta 12 May (AL). RAPTORS THROUGH ALCIDS Swallow-tailed Kites were only reported from Maryland. One found dead 2 Mar at Shore Acres, Anne Arvndel (ph. Ken Walsh) appar- ently starved to death, as its carcass was re- portedly 20 per cent below average weight. One was seen 16 Apr at Redgate, Saint Mary’s (Bev & Warren Walker); and another was at Blakeslee, Garrett 25 Apr (jon Boone). The first Mississippi Kite for the site was a subad. 2 May at College Cr. hawkwatch, jairres City, VA (BT); another, an ad., was over Cape Charles, Nor thampton 4 May (ESB, Tom Saun- ders). Ft. Smallwood, Anne Ar undel had four reports, all 13-17 May, with 2 on the 13th and 3 on the 16th and the others singles (Sue Ric- ciardi, Hal Wierenga). In Virginia, Mississippi Kites arrived 11-20 May at previously report- ed breeding or suspected breeding sites in Vir- ginia at Buckland, Prince Williarrr (ICT), in Halifax (JB), at Huntley Meadows (Larry Meade), at Annandale, Fairfax (Stephen Ec- cles), and at Waynewood, Fairfax (Donald Sweig). A typical count of 10 came from southside Virginia counties (Greensville, Southampton, and Emporia) 20 May (Brenda Tekin et al). Newly reported to the list of nest sites is near Evergreen, Pr ince William, where they have been nesting for at least the previ- ous two springs (Randy Moran). A Sharp- shinned Hawk was seen 27-28 May at Syon Abbey, Frarrklin, VA Oohn Sebastian) — the species is a little-known breeder in Virginia. VOLUME 61 (2007) NUMBER 3 423 MIDDLE ATLANTIC C A Red-necked Grebes were reported in the Region with above-average frequency 1 Mar-1 May, though not on the scale of the Feb 3 #% 1 994 and spring 2003 influxes. This year's push (Table 1 ) was most similar to 2003, with nearly all reports from inland locations, con- centrated in n. Virginia and Maryland. A closer look reveals that nearly all new discoveries of grebes at unexpected locations came 4-30 Mar, with a ten-day pause before several more were discovered 10-24 Apr. Overwhelmingly, the reports were of single birds, though 13 were found at one location, and there were two reports of 4 birds. This year's tally was akin to the "echo" years that followed the 1994 and 2003 invasions, with ca. 52 grebes reported in total this season. Table 1. Records of Red-necked Grebe from Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia, 1 March through 24 April 2007. Number Date Location Observer(s) 1 1-Mar Ocean City Worcester, MD LeoWeigant 1 4 Mar 8(25 Mar Washington Channel D.C. John Beetham; David Moulton 1 4-Mar Rehobeth Branch Somerset, MD BH etal. 1 6-Mar Violettes Lock Montgomery, MD DCz 1 6-Mar Gloucester Point Gloucester, VA DH 1 7-Mar C.B.B.T. Northampton, VA ESB 1 8-Mar Ft. McHenry Baltimore, MD JP 2 10-Mar Little Seneca Res. Montgomery, MD DCz 1-2 10-28 Mar Loch Raven Res. Carroll, MD DT, Steve Collins 1 10-11 Mar farm pond Halifax, VA JB 1 12-Mar Little Falls Montgomery, MD DCz 2 13 Mar-14 Apr off Riverbend Park Montgomery, MD RW 12 13-Mar Ft. McHenry Baltimore, MD Lou Nielsen 1 13-Mar Oxbow L. Anne Arundel, MD MS, Jay Sheppard 1 13-Mar Liberty L.* Carroll/Baltimore, MD RFR 1 15-Mar C.B.B.T. Virginia Beach, VA ESB 1 21-Mar McMillan Res. D.C. Andrew Dubill 1 22-Mar Cash L. Prince George's, MD Robert Ostrowski 4 24-Mar Occoquan Bay N.W.R. Prince William, VA Mark Moran 1 24-Mar North East Cecil, MD SA, EA 1 24-Mar Dam #4 Washington, MD TF 4 25-Mar Burke L. Fairfax, VA KGa; one there 31 Mar 1 25 Mar & 20 Apr Piney Run Carroll, MD RFR, DT 1 25-Mar Rumbley Point Somerset, MD KGr 1 30-Mar Jug Bay Anne Arundel/Prince George's, MD JS 1 10-Apr Little Seneca Res. Montgomery, MD Andy Martin 1 14-Apr Triadelphia Res. Montgomery/ Howard, MD HH 1 15-Apr Pt. Lookout Saint Mary's, MD Marty Cribb 1 19-Apr Patuxent R. Naval Air Station Saint Mary's, MD KR 1 24-Apr Potomac R. D.C. Jay Keller *Liberty L. had 1 on 20 Mar, 2 on 28 Mar, 1 on 19 Apr, 3 on 20 Apr, 2 on 24 Apr, and 1 on 1 May all RFR, m.ob.) The latest Rough-legged Hawk was a migrant spotted near Beaverdam Res., Loudoun 24 Mar (GK, MAK). Three Golden Eagles were re- ported as migrants in Mar, and one was seen 5 Apr at Chestertown, Kent, MD (Walter Elli- son, Nancy Martin). In Highland, VA, where nesting has been suspected for decades, there were 15 sightings of Golden Eagles in Apr and seven in May; check the summer report for details of an apparent nest! Two Yellow Rails were heard 13 Apr at Irish Grove, Somerset (Paul Bystrak, TF et ah); the species is very rarely detected as a mi- grant in the Region but has been detected with increasing frequency in spring in Delaware and New Jersey of late. Two Black Rails heard 12 May at Elliott I., Dorchester constituted the season’s only report (HTA et ah). King Rails returned to Occoquan Bay N.W.R. 21 Apr, with 2 reported (Steve Williams); 2 were reported 17 & 24 May from a survey of several marshes in Mathews, VA (DH). In Maryland, one was at Truitt’s Land- ing, Worcester 24 Mar (MLH), one at Hart 12 May (EJS et ah), and one at Ft. McHenry 19 May QP)- Common Moorhens were reported from eight locations split between Maryland and Virginia, 19 Mar-26 May; notable among these was one at Swoope, Augusta 21 May, and at Waynesboro, VA 22- 26 May (both fide YL). Three Amer- ican Coots at Pickering Cr., Talbot were in potential breeding habitat 27 May (TF et al.). Four reports of individual Sandhill Cranes reached the editors: 25 Mar at Airlie, Fauquier (ph. Jack & Joyce Palm); 28-31 Mar at Occoquan Bay N.W.R. {fide Joanna Taylor); 30 Apr at Darnestown, Montgomery, MD (Marcia Simonson); and a flyover 17 May at Jug Bay (Bob (sc Melinda Elvander). American Golden-Plovers are of interest in spring, and this year had two Maryland sightings: 21-24 Apr at Covey’s Landing, Talbot QM, m.ob.), and 7 May at Pt. No Point, Saint Mary’s (KR). The Region’s ear- liest Piping Plover was seen at Chincoteague N.W.R., Accomack 17 Mar (KGa); less expected were 7 at Back Bay N.W.R., Virginia Beach 18 & 22 Mar (Dirk Huntington, RLA), where the species is now a migrant. Black-necked Stilts are expected at Virginia locales such as Chin- coteague and Craney I. and were re- ported there; others from less-ex- pected sites include one at Poplar I., Talbot 2 May QR); one at Brown’s Station, Prince George’s 11 May QS, Fred Fallon); 2 at Truitt's Landing (DP); one at Shirley Plantation, Charles City, VA 26 May (Arun Bose); 26 May at Fairmount W.M.A., Somerset (RFR); and 2 at W. Ocean City 31 May (MLH). Three Willets at Ocean City Inlet 4 Mar were unusual for that time of year; wanderers of that species were seen at Poplar L, 5 there 23 Apr OR); 6 Westerns at Silver L. near Dayton, Rockingham, VA 1 May (Charles Ziegenfus); one Eastern and 2 Westerns at North Beach, Calvert, MD 10 May OL-S); and one Eastern and an un- known at Hart 26 May (EJS et al.). An Upland Sandpiper was at Chino Farms, Queen Anne’s 7 Apr (Dan Small, Maren Gimpel). A Whim- brel at Irish Grove, Somerset 13 Apr was a good date away from the immediate coast (TF). Two Red Knot reports were received from birders, 18-28 May, one from each state, and neither pertaining to more than 8 birds. A low-altitude flight by Barry Truitt and Bryan Watts over Virginia’s barrier islands 22 May located 5939 knots (most, 1871, on Hog L), 1456 fewer than detected in New Jersey and 424 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS MIDDLE ATLANTIC Delaware combined the same day and more than twice the count from Georgia and the Carolinas combined 22-23 May. Purple Sand- pipers persisted until 20 May at the C.B.B.T. (DCl) and 29 May at Cape Charles (ESB). Ruffs are always a delight, and this season claimed three: a male at Coveys Landing, MD 21-28 Apr m.ob.); a Reeve at North Beach, Calvert 10 May OLS); and another Reeve at Craney I. 15 May (Ruth Beck, BW). Red-necked Phalaropes were at Poplar I. 14 May (KGr et al). Hart 19 May and 3 on 26 May (EJS et al.), and one at North Branch, Al- legany (]. B. Churchill). Not atypical, all reports of Little Gull were in Maryland; there were 10 reports 10 Mar-1 1 Apr. Back R., Baltimore is the most reliable spot in the Region for them, and up to 3 were reported there 26-31 Mar (Ered Shaffer, Barry Cooper, m.ob.). One at Seneca along the Po- tomac R. 14 Mar was the most out of place (DCz); all reports that included age were of ads., except a second-cycle bird at Ocean City Inlet 10 Mar 0Go et al). Black-headed Gulls were at Et. Smallwood 11 Mar Qay McGann); and an alternate-plumaged ad. was at Rock Run, Halford 1 Apr (fide JC). An Iceland Gull was at Assat. 12 May (MLH). Two Lesser Black-backed Gulls were at Hart 19 May and 3 there 26 May (EJS); this species has been regular at Virginia Beach in spring and sum- mer but is still unusual in the upper Chesa- peake Bay in late spring. A Gull-billed Tern was at Assat. 28 Apr (MLH); another was a surprise at Pt. No Point, Saint Mary’s 7 May (KR). Seven Caspi- an Terns were at Piney Res., Garrett 18 Apr (RPR, Bill Ellis); 3 were at Carvins Cove, Botetourt 20 May (MP). A Porster’s Tern 19 May at L. Moomaw may be the first for Bath, VA (Tad Pinnell). A Roseate Tern was seen over a marsh at Nickawampus Parm, Acco- mack 2 May (Les Willis) , and an Arctic Tern was at Hart 26 May, a 2nd record for the is- land (ph. Brad Panning). Single Black Terns were at Airlie, Fauquier 16 May (TMD) and along the Potomac R. at Violettes Lock, Montgomery 21 May (DCz). Three light- morph ad. Parasitic Jaegers were seen from the southernmost island of the C.B.B.T. 6 May (BT); a jaeger was left unidentified at Assat. 13 May (Clive Harris). The Thick- billed Murre seen at Ocean City Inlet in win- ter was last seen 1 Mar (Harvey Mudd et al); a Razorbill was seen at that location 10 Mar QGo et al.). DOVES THROUGH SHRIKES Eurasian Collared-Doves have a moderately strengthening foothold in several Virginia lo- cations but continue to be found in new places. Live were found 1 Apr at McCoy, Montgomeiy only 3 km from a known popu- lation in nearby Pulaski (MH); 2 were at Sangerville, Augusta 9 Mar-26 May (Mike Shank, ph. m.ob.); and one was at Lebanon, Russell 20 Apr (fide RM). The species is still looking for purchase in Maryland; one was at Havre de Grace, Harford 22 Apr OLS), and an- other was between Hancock and Pectonville, Washington 28 May (Tom Johnson). A flyby White-winged Dove was at Balti- more-Washington International Airport, Anne Arundel 9 May (Ed Boyd). Two Long- eared Owls were at Morgan Run Natural En- vironmental Area, Carroll, MD 4-18 Mar (RPR, m.ob.); another was in Garrett 11 Mar (DP); and one was near Rte. 642 along the West Virginia border in Highland, VA 19 May, a date that suggests breeding (fide PR). A Northern Saw-whet Owl was heard tooting at Bear Mt., Highland 21 Mar (PR). A Chuck- will’s-vndow was well out of place at Pleasant Valley, Garrett 12 May (fide PP); another was at Prince William Forest Park, Prince William 12 May+ where it has been the previous few springs and persists as the northernmost bird in the state. Four were along Indiantown Rd., Orange, VA 28 May (Phil Kenney). A North- ern Flicker was banded at Forman’s Br. and was determined to be a Yellow-shafted Flick- er X Red-shafted Flicker intergrade OGt). An Olive-sided Flycatcher was early at Rock Creek Park, D.C. 1 May (HY). A Scissor- tailed Flycatcher was a one-day wonder at Concord, Campbell, VA (Peggy Lyons), and another was photographed in the Eastern Shore of Virginia N.WR., Northampton, VA and vicinity at least 18-22 May (Susan Rice, ph. ESB, TS), the 13th county record. Alder Flycatchers were heard at Millington, Kent 12 May OLS, HH), at Hart 19 May (Marcia Wat- son), and Myrtle Grove, Charles (GMJ, Gwen Brewer). The regular Western Kingbird at Ft. McHenry, Baltimore returned 8 May and was present through 3 Jim (JP, m.ob.). Loggerhead Shrikes were reported from several known breeding spots in Virginia, and a few places where they are not known to breed. One was near Boyce, Clarke Qon & B. J. Little), with 2 at that location 25 Mar; a pair was at Swoope 18 & 20 Mar (AL); a pair was at Sky Mead- ows, Fauquier 17 Mar-14 May (Scott Baron, m.ob.); one was near Lynchburg in Amherst 25 Apr (Gene Sattler); one was in Loudoun 12 May (fide ]C); another was at Bedford 22 Apr- 12 May (RB); and one was along Rte. 644, Highland 19 May (fide PR). A Northern Shrike was at Manchester, Cairoll, MD 23 Mar (Steve Bystrak) and also along Boog Rd., Car- roll 28 Mar, possibly the same bird (Sharon Schwemmer). CORVIDS THROUGH CROSSBILLS Common Ravens have in recent years been expanding across the Piedmont and at times nudging into the Coastal Plain. In Maryland, there were three reports from Montgomeiy 25 Mar-17 Apr; at Woodbine, Howard 10 Mar (DP); 2 at Marriottsville, Baltimore 11 Mar (Keith Eric Costley); and one at Font Hill, Howard 17 May (Bonnie Ott). Virginia’s lone waif was seen 25 May, an unlikely date, from Monticello Park, Alexandria (Paula Sullivan). A Barn Swallow was very early for the Pied- mont at Piney Run, Carroll, MD 13 Apr (RFR). Two Sedge Wrens were at Elliott 1. 12 May (HTA et al.). A Marsh Wren was at Finzel Swamp, Gairett 2 May, and another was at North Branch, Allegany 14 May (both Mikey Lutmerding, DY). A Veery was late at For- man’s Br. 28 May (b. JGr). Bicknell’s Thrush- es were reported three times this season: a nocturnal migrant from Tilghman Neck, Queen Anne 12 May OLS, HH); singing at Fer- ndale, AnneAmndel 17-21 Mar (SA, EA, BH); and singing lustily in a Norfolk, VA yard 21 May (RLA). Orange-crowned Warblers were found at two Maryland locations 12 May: Bowie, Prince George’s (Meghan Tice), and Elk Neck S.E, Ce- cil (Parke John, Lisa Wilson). The Yellow- throated Warbler that wintered at Indian Head, Charles was last seen 24 Mar (Carol Ghebelian). Two singing Yellow Warblers 28 Mar at Cockpit Point Rd., Prince William tied Virginia’s early date, certainly a type of record that will repeatedly be broken in coming years (Rich Rieger). The Galax, VA Green-tailed Towhee (acc.) from winter was last reported 1 May (Bob Perkins, ph., m.ob.). A Clay-colored Sparrow was at Scotland, Saint Mary’s 29 Mar (DP, HP). A Lark Sparrow was at Occoquan Bay N.WR. 10 Mar (fide Marc Ribaudo). A well-described Henslow’s Sparrow was at Compton Mt., Buchanan, VA 30 Apr (RM). An Acadian Nelson’s Sharp-tailed Sparrow was found at Deal I., Somerset 1 May (SHD). The last Fox Sparrow for the Region was reported 21 Apr at Piney Res., outside the expected dates but not breaking the Regional late date (DY). Marylanders found 3 Painted Buntings this spring, a female 31 Mar in Prince George’s (Dave Mozurkewich, m.ob.); an ad. male seen in flight at Friendship, Anne Arundel 12 Apr QLS); and an ad. male singing at Upper Marl- boro, Prince George’s 20 Apr OLS). A Dickcis- sel visited a Roanoke, VA feeder 13-17 Apr Qoyce Holt); the first migrant was detected nocturnally over Queen Anne’s 12 May (HH). A singing male Western Tanager was found along Ross Drive in Rock Creek Park, D.C. 19 May (m.ob., Jide Joe Coleman). Rusty Blackbird numbers continue to VOLUME 61 (2007) NUMBER 3 425 MIDDLE ATLANTIC plummet. Only three Virginia locations could muster triple-digit numbers during the re- porting period: several dates at Great Dismal Swamp, Suffolk (RLA); Huntley Meadows on a few occasions (m.ob.); and Bull Run Re- gional Park, Fairfax 6 Apr (FA). The balance of reports consisted typically of a dozen or fewer, with few reports of as many as 60 birds. A male Brewer’s Blackbird was at Middletown, Frederick, MD 1 Mar (Rack Wickline). Two Boat-tailed Crackles were at Poplar 1., Talbot 12 & 14 May, good for the mid-Chesapeake Bay (EJS et ah). Red Crossbills were seen from four locations in Virginia, all near potential breeding sites: 2 at Poverty Hollow, Mont- gomery 1 Apr (MH); a high of 7 at feeders on Bear Mt., Highland 21 Apr (PR); one near Reddish Knob 28 Apr (William Leigh); and 2 at Shenandoah Mt. 17 May (Ken Hinkle), the latter two locations Rockingham. Contributors: Robert L. Ake, Henry T. Armis- tead, Elaine Arnold, Stan Arnold, Fred At- wood (e. Virginia) , Jeff Blalock, Michael R. Boatwright (cen. Virginia), Edward S. Brink- ley, Rexanne Bruno, Joe Coleman, David Clark (DCl), Patty Craig, Dave Czaplak (DCz), Todd M. Day, Adam D’Onofrio (se. Virginia), Samuel H. Dyke, Tom Feild, Kurt Gaskill (KGa), Jeff Gordon QGo), Kevin Graff (KGr), Jim Gruber QGr). Matt Hafner, Dave Hewitt, Mark L. Hoffman, Hans Holbrook, Bill Hubick, George M. Jett, Mary Alice Koeneke, Glenn Koppel, Allen Lamer, YuLee Lamer (Augusta, VA), Roger Mayhorn (sw. Virginia), Jim Morrin, Helen Patton (Mont- gomery, MD), Jim Peters, Elizabeth L. Pitney (Tri-County Bird Club, MD), Fran Pope, Dave Powell, Mike Purdy, Kyle Rambo, Jan Reese, Patty Reum, Robert F. Ringler, Eugene J. Scarpula,Jeff Shenot,Jo Solem (JSo) (Howard, MD), John Spahr QSp) (w. Virginia), C. Michael Stinson, Marcy Stutzman, Brian Taber, Debbie Terry, Ian C. Topolsky (n. Vir- ginia), Ralph Wall, Bill Williams (coastal Vir- ginia), David Yeany, Howard Youth. 1$ Todd M. Day, 5118 Beaver Dam Road Jeffersonton, Virginia 22724, (blkvulture@aoLcom) Edward S. Brinkley, 106 Monroe Avenue Cape Charles, Virginia 23310, (ensifera@aol.com) Southern Atlantic /Uig3l0fR.mft Ricky Davis This spring’s weather was generally drier than normal, continuing the dry or drought conditions in many areas of the Region. Some coastal sites were less dry this spring, due to several coastal lows bring- ing rain for several days. Prevailing winds in late April and early May were from the north and east (as in 1992 and 2003, but not as pro- nounced), which resulted in good diversity of pelagic terns, tubenoses, and tropicbirds. This pattern probably also resulted in a westward shift of passerine migration and in late depar- ture dates for early migrants such as Merlin, Sora, and American Bittern. According to many observers, the passerine migration was a week or more behind schedule (a “late spring”), and while coastal birders comment- ed on the paucity of migrants this season, many observers in the Piedmont and Moun- tain regions mentioned that numbers of many passerine migrants were up. Temperatures were average for the most part, with some ar- eas experiencing periods of cooler weather than normal. The avian highlight of the sea- son was the Snail Kite found at a crayfish farm in Clarendon County, South Carolina — a most unexpected bird for the Region. Abbreviations: C. Hatt. (Cape Hatteras, Dare, NC); E.L.H. (E. L. Huie Land Application Fa- cility, Clayton, GA); H.B.S.P. (Huntington Beach S.P, Georgetown, SC); Hoop. (Hooper Lane, Henderson, NC); Kennesaw Mt. (Ken- nesaw Mt. National Battlefield Park, Cobb, GA); Pea 1. (Pea Island N.W.R., Dare, NC); S.S.S. (Savannah Spoil Site, Jasper, SC). WATERFOWL THROUGH STORKS Black-bellied Whistling-Ducks continued to increase, with the best counts being 40+ at the Altamaha W.M.A., GA 21 May (fide TM) and 20 in Beaufort, NC 13 May (fide AM). The lat- ter birds were in the same area where a group was observed last spring. Unusual goose sight- ings included 12 Greater White-fronteds in Bartow, GA 3 Mar (BL et al), 29 Snows at San- tee Coastal Reserve, SC 1 Mar QM), and a Ross’s in the Macon, GA area 26 Apr (fide TM). Mute Swans continued at Pea L, where 6 were noted 22 Apr (RD), with 2 tending a nest. One must wonder why refuge personnel have not taken measures to prevent this troubling feral species from getting a foothold in the area. Easily more intriguing was the imm. swan photographed at L. Mattamuskeet, NC 20-21 Mar (DC, CC, BF et al.) that appeared to be a Bewick’s Swan, the Eurasian subspecies of Tundra Swan. This taxon has not previously been documented in the state; as with most waterfowl, its provenance is open to question. Several ducks lingered into the spring sea- son, with the most unusual being a pair of Redheads and a Lesser Scaup at North Pond, Pea 1. through the end May (ESB, m.ob.); an imm. male Common Eider in Pender, NC 19- 28 May (RW et al.); a White-winged Scoter at the E.L.H. 5-12 May (DHa et al., CL, m.ob.); a female Common Goldeneye on a pond near the Beaverdam area of Falls L., NC 1-2 May (BB, J&SSo); and a female Red-breasted Mer- ganser at Cochran Shoals, GA 28 May OFO- Hooded Mergansers, local nesters in the Re- gion, were detected in all three states, with at least six different sightings of ads. with young. Inland loons of note included a Red- throated Loon at Piedmont N.W.R., GA 3-25 Mar (TMc, SB), another Red-throated at Falls L., NC 18 Mar (RD), and an alternate- plumaged ad. Pacific Loon photographed at L. Tahoma, McDowell, NC 6 May (DHo, RD; DM), the latter providing the hrst record for the mts. of that state. The usual handful of Red-necked Grebes was reported during Mar across the Region, but Western Grebe reports were above normal: 2 previously found in the winter season (at L. Norman, NC and L. Wal- ter F George, GA) were seen until at least mid-Mar (Jide TP, jrde TM), one was at Cum- berland L, GA 20 Mar (JideJFl), and another was at the n. end of Pawleys L, SC 11 May (Jide PTu). Pelagic birding from Hatteras, NC was con- siderably more productive this spring, due to an increased number of trips and more preva- lent easterly winds. Gadfly petrel reports were highlighted by an impressive 6 Herald Petrels 23 May, six different trips with single Fea’s Pe- 426 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS SOUTHERN ATLANTIC Spring 2007 was the third spring in a row for European Storm-Petrel off Cape Hatteras; this bird was nicely documented 28 May. Photo- graph by Susan Hengeveld. trels 22 May-1 Jun, and a Bermuda Petrel 29 May (BPI). The Sooty Shearwater migration was more in evidence this spring, as was the Manx Shearwater passage. Manxes were re- ported on 11 trips from 12 May-2 Jun, with a peak of 11-12 noted 26 May (BPI). Storm-pe- trel numbers were up slightly compared to the last two springs, and European Storm-Pe- trels were noted for the 3rd consecutive year, with one 28 May and one or 2 the next day off Hatteras (BPI). Tropicbirds were observed in about average numbers, with an ad. White- tailed 26 May and imm. or subad. Red-billeds 19, 22, & 28 May (BPI). And very rare in spring was the subad. Masked Booby off Hat- teras 19 May (BPI). American White Pelicans were again noted frequently in the Region this season. The farthest inland were the 10 at High Rock L., Davidson, NC 8-9 Apr (fide DD) and the 11 at L. Julian, Buncombe, NC 19-20 Apr (WF et al). A Brown Pelican was at Lake Park, GA 3 Mar (fide TM), also an un- usual inland occurrence. Very rare offshore was the Magnificent Frigatebird off Hatteras, NC 28 May (BPI). This species is usually found within sight of the beaches or right along the coast. American Bitterns were reported more often than usual this spring. The most interesting re- port involved 2 in extreme se. Halifax, NC 14 Apr (DHo, RD) that flushed out of a wet briar thicket in a riverine swamp forest. Great Blue Herons continue to nest farther and farther westward. This spring, a colony containing at least four nests was found near the Tuck- aseegee R. near Dillsboro, Jackson, NC in late Mar (TL), eclipsing the Ecusta Pond, Brevard, NC site started last year. Always noteworthy, especially in spring, Reddish Egret sightings involved one at Little St. Simons L, GA 8 Mar (NVL, PH), 2 in Beaufort, SC 27 Mar (DF et al.), and one at H.B.S.R 4 Apr (S&PTu). The most unusual Black- crowned Night-Heron reports were of one in the mts. in the French Broad R. valley, Henderson, NC 24 Apr (WF, RS) and a flock of 20 flying by a marsh along Twelve Bridges Rd., Sumter, SC 24 Mar (RC, CE). North Carolina’s only known Wood Stork nesting site in extreme se. Columbus had increased from last year with 192 nests on 1 May (DA); one was locally unusual over Howell Woods, Johnston, NC 15 May QSa). RAPTORS THROUGH ALODS Swallow-tailed Kites were once again re- ported frequently. The earliest returning Swallow-tailed was at Bettie, e. of the North R., Carteret, NC 4 Mar (JF et al). The most interesting inland reports in- volved one near Oxford, Granville, NC 1 May (fide TP), 2-3 along Richardson Bridge Rd., Johnston, NC 6-16 May (ED, m.ob.), and one at Dawson Forest W.M.A., GA 1 Apr (GS). Five along North Carolina’s Outer Banks be- tween Avon and Salvo 28 Apr (HG) constitut- ed a high count for that region. Easily the sea- son’s most unexpected bird was the ad. male Snail Kite found at a crayhsh farm along Elliott’s Landing Rd. near Rimini, Clarendon, SC 14 May (LM). The bird was present into Jun until the ponds were drained and pro- vided the hrst documented report for the Region. There is one previous unconfirmed sight report from Long, GA in Apr 1971, which incidentally was also during a period of severe drought in Florida. The wintering Swainson’s Hawk at Alligator River N.W.R., NC was last noted 5 Mar OSo). Only one Golden Eagle was reported this spring, that being an imm. over Sprewell Bluff, Flint R., Meriwether, GA 16 Apr (TK et al). A Merlin w. of Williamson, Martin, NC 11 May (FE) was quite late for that inland locality. Soras apparently migrated over the w. por- tions of the Region in good numbers, as evi- denced by the 14 at the E.L.H. 11 Apr (CL), 3 at Fletcher Park, Fletcher, NC 4 May (ST et al.), and 6 at a n. Greene, GA marsh 13 May (PS); a late coastal migrant was at Cedar Island N.W.R. 18 May (ESB). Purple Gallinules out- side of their normal range included one at Oxbow Meadows, GA 20 Apr (WCh) and one at Duck, Dare, NC during the first week of May (MB et al). Limpkins were once again found in the Region, with one still present at Reed Bing- ham S.R, GA in late May (fide TM) and one at Magnolia Gardens, Charleston, SC 25-27 Apr (fide RC). Crane reports this spring included a Sandhill Crane at Hutchinson L, Savannah, GA 24 Apr (fide LR) and 3 Whooping Cranes of the experimental Wisconsin/Florida flock near Perry, GA 28 Mar (fide JO). An American Golden-Plover in basic plumage in mid-coastal South Carolina 20 May (ND et al.) was a very good find; this species is extremely rare along the coast in spring. North Carolina got its 3rd Snowy Plover when one was at Mason Inlet, Wrightsville B. 6-11 Apr (RW, m.ob.). Only 2 Long-billed Curlews were mentioned this spring; one at Little St. Simons L, GA 8 Mar (NVL, PH) and one at Pinckney Island N.W.R., SC 22 Apr (DB). Willet is a rare in- land spring migrant in the Region; thus of note was the excellent count of 1 1 on rocks in the Chattahoochee R., Cobb, GA 29 Apr (B&TDr). Upland Sandpiper migration through the Region this spring was little not- ed, with only two reports received: one at the Bostwick Sod Farm, GA 29 Mar (CS) and 5-6 at Hoop. 19 Apr (WF, RS, ST). Very rare in the Region as a spring migrant, a Baird’s Sand- piper was studied closely at North Pond, Pea 1. 22 May (MT, SM). This species normally migrates northward through the interior of the continent. Another extremely rare spring shorebird. Buff-breasted Sandpiper, was pho- tographed at Jackson’s Pasture, Laurens, GA 14 Apr (TPa et al.). There are only a half- An extraordinary rarity in the United States away from Florida, this male Snail Kite appeared at a craylish farm near Rimini, Clarendon County, South Carolina in mid- May 2007 (here 25 May) and remained until the pond was drained in the summer. The bird's appearance outside of Florida was most likely due to the drought condi- tions in that state. Photograph by Michael McCloy. VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 427 SOUTHERN ATLANTIC North Carolina's third Snowy Plover was present at Mason Inlet 6-1 1 (here 8) April 2007. Photograph by Ricky Davis. dozen spring reports for that state. Continu- ing a recent trend. South Carolina had anoth- er spring Ruff, a young male found on South 1. 12 May (ND). Phalaropes were not men- tioned too often this spring. The only reports involved a Wilsons at the Santee Coastal Re- serve, SC in mid-Apr (ND), a Red-necked at Brandon Farms Rd., Bartow, GA 29 May (B&DV), and 4 slightly late Reds off of Hat- teras, NC 12 May (BPI). Noteworthy inland Laughing Gulls includ- ed one at Thundering Springs L., Laurens, GA 14 Apr (TPa et al.) and 2 at Falls L, NC 15 Apr (BB). The imm. Black-headed Gull found at the L. Mattamuskeet, NC causeway in the winter was last seen 6 Mar (CSo). White- winged gulls were very scarce this spring, with the only one reported being a Glau- cous at Wrightsville Beach, NC 10 Apr (RW). Sooty Tern reports involved one returning to a lower Cape Fear R., NC tern colony in early May (WG) and one off of Hatteras, NC 22 May (BPI). Un- usual inland was the Least Tern at the E.L.H. 25 May (CL). Onshore Roseate Terns have been very hard to find in the Region for a few years now. Thus of note were one inshore off Hatteras, NC 19 May (BPI) and 3 at Cape Point, Buxton, NC 26 May (SM, MT, ph.). Arctic Terns made a better showing this spring also, with single birds being found off Hatteras on hve trips 23-30 May (BPI), up to 4 off Hat- leras 31 May (BPI), and 2 about 64 km s. of Beaufort Inlet, NC 31 May (NB et al.). More South Polar Skuas were found this spring off Hatteras than in the past several years, with one on 25 May, 2-3 on 28 May, one on 29 May, and 2 on 30 May (BPI). Jaeger numbers were also up considerably, with the peak counts off Hatteras being 13 Pomarines 22 May, 5 Para- sitics 25 May, and 7 Long-taileds 29 May (BPI). Also 2 Long-taileds 80 km s. of Beau- fort Inlet, NC 29 May QFc) were good hnds. Of interest was the ad. jaeger seen sitting on the water far from shore at Pea 1. 6 Apr (JB, TPu et al.). The observers felt that the bird was a Long-tailed, which would be very early for a spring migrant. Two Razorbills were reported: one in the surf at Ft. Macon, NC 20 Mar (JideJF) and one on the beach at Emer- ald Isle, NC in mid-Apr (fide CC), which later died. DOVES THROUGH PIPITS A White-winged Dove at feed- ers in Savannah, GA 21-22 Apr (SW) was the only one reported this spring, while a Common Ground-Dove calling repeatedly in n. Greene, GA 31 Mar (PS) provided a very rare sighting for that part of that states Piedmont region. Black-billed Cuckoos were found in all three states, and as usual most reports came from the mts. or the immediate coast. Northern Saw- whet Owls normally are found at the higher elevations during spring and summer, thus one found in a laurel thicket at 810 m elevation near Cher- ryfield, Transylvania, NC 22 May (AK) was quite a surprise. Georgia had some interesting hummingbirds this spring: its 2nd Broad- billed Hummingbird, a male, was pho- tographed during a visit to a feeder on Sheffield L, Camden 3 Mar (fide GK); a few winter Calliope Hummingbirds lingered into Mar; and the Broad-tailed Hummingbird from the winter at Mableton stayed until late Mar (fide LS). Olive-sided Elycatchers were at Kennessaw Mt. 30 Apr (fide BZ), near Stephens, Oglethorpe, GA 7 May (ME), and at Reynolda Gardens, Winston-Salem, NC 15 May QH)- Locally unusual Empidonax fly- catchers included a heard-only Yellow-bellied at Warrior Mt., Polk, NC 4 May (GM et al.), an Alder at Paulks Pasture, GA 21-23 Apr (GK et al., BL et al), an Alder at Ivey Manor, Forsyth, GA 8-10 May (GMc, B&DZ), a Wil- low in Biedler Eorest, Harleyville, SC 12 May (AS), and a Least near Halifax, NC 20 May (PE). The Say’s Phoebe that wintered near Goldsboro, NC was last seen 18 Mar (MBr). A male Vermilion Flycatcher, seen briefly at a bird bath in Davisboro, Washington, GA 26 Apr (fide LSc), was an obvious migrant. Gray Kingbirds were seen at the n. end of Folly Beach, SC 2 May (2 birds; BD, ND) and in Oc- racoke village, NC 16 May (KH, SK). Scissor- tailed Flycatchers were' once again reported from all three states. In addition to the re- turning McDonough, GA and Monroe, NC nesting birds, other Scissor-taileds were at Jekyll L, GA 28-30 Apr (RT, MC), in Spartan- burg, SC 12-13 May (LC, JBH), at the n. end of Folly Beach, SC 15 May QB), and at North Pond, Pea 1. 31 May (fideJL). Migrant Warbling Vireos of note were at Kennessaw Mt. 17 Apr (GB et al), at Mid- Pines Rd., Raleigh, NC 28 Apr (RD, DHo), at Kennessaw Mt. 30 Apr (BZ et al.), and at the Buford Fish Hatchery, Forsyth, GA 6-7 May (KT, JFl, EH). Common Ravens continued to be seen at several e. North Carolina locations such as Butner Game Lands, Durham 28 Apr (2 birds; RP), a Raleigh quarry 2 May (fide BB), and in the L. Glenwood area of Pitt near Greenville 11 May on intojun (VP). A pair of Brown-headed Nuthatches feeding young in a nest cavity at Rabun Gap, GA 13-15 May (FR) provided a high-elevation record for nesting by that species. Interesting migrant wrens included a late Sedge Wren at Car- olina Sandhills N.W.R., SC 12 May (RC, CE) and a good count of 6 Marsh Wrens at a n. Greene, GA marsh 6 May (PS). Re- ports of extremely early thrushes, heard only, involved a Veery at Falls L., NC 2 Apr (BB), a Gray-cheeked at Durham, NC 31 Mar (LSz), and a Swainson’s at Falls L., NC 1 Apr (BB). Four Swainson’s heard singing along the Blue Ridge Park- way near Mt. Mitchell, NC 26 May (MW et al.) were rather late if migrants; breed- ing by this species in that state has not been confirmed. Of interest was an American Pipit in Watauga, NC in late May (DP, CSm, JG et al.) that was not only late but was unusually heavily streaked. WARBLERS THROUGH FINCHES The warbler migration, as with that of fly- catchers and thrushes, was more prevalent in the w. portions of the Region. Coastal ob- servers mentioned a lack of migrants this spring, but several locally noteworthy war- blers were found. A Blue-winged Warbler was in Conway, SC 19 Apr QPe)- a singing Chest- nut-sided Warbler was a good find at Mt. Roseate Terns have been scarce onshore in North Carolina for the past sev- eral years, so this trio found at Cape Hatteras 26 May was a welcome sight. Photograph by Mike Todd. 428 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS SOUTHERN ATLANTIC This male Yellow-headed Blackbird was a good find for the spring at the E. L. Huie Water Treatment Facility in Clayton County, Georgia 28-30 (here 30) April 2007. Photograph by Dan Vickers. Pleasant, SC 17 May (DAb), a Magnolia War- bler was at Sanderling, Dare, NC 22 May QL), a Pine Warbler was at C. Lookout, NC 22 Apr OF et al.), and 2 Cerulean Warblers were very rare at Hilton Head I., SC 24 Apr (DB). An- other Audubon’s Warbler was found in the Region, this time a female on St. Catherine’s 1., GA 28 Apr (BZ, JFl). Blackpoll Warblers usually migrate northward e. of the mts. This spring, however, the mts. had one of the best Blackpoll migrations in recent memory, with higher-than-normal numbers at most places through the month of May, including 25^- at Jackson Park, Hendersonville, NC 5 May (WF et al.). Several early warblers included a Prothonotary at the Ocmulgee N.M., GA 11 Mar (TMc), a Northern Waterthrush at the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, GA 23 Mar (TM), and a Yellow-breasted Chat in the Augusta, GA area 17 Mar (LS). Connecticut Warblers staged one of the best spring migrations ever in Georgia. There were 2-3 at Cochran Shoals, Cobb 5-10 May (MD, KB, BL et al, B&DZ), one at the Buford Fish Hatchery, Forsyth in mid-May QFl, EH), one at Chickasawhatchee W.M.A., Calhoun 8-9 May (AA et al), one in Fulton 9 May (TK), one in Catoosa 17 May (DH), up to 2 at Clyde Shepard Nature Preserve, Decatur 18-19 May (HG, JS et al), one in another area of Decatur 19 May OBr), and one at Jones Bridge, GA 20 May (KB). North Carolina reports involved one at Jackson Park, Hendersonville 4 May (WF et al.) and another in Hendersonville 12 May (ST). Only one Mourning Warbler was mentioned, a male at Dawson Forest, Dawson, GA 7 May QFl, EH). Tanagers of note includ- ed a very early male Scarlet Tanager at Jekyll 1., GA 23 Mar (fide MC), a Western Tanager at a feeder in Washington, NC 5-19 Mar (fide CSm), and wintering Westerns in Conway, SC until at least 18 Apr (GP) and at Dublin, GA until at least mid-Mar (SS). Several late sparrows were reported across the Region this spring: a Clay-colored singing at North River Earms, Carteret, NC 6 May OF et al.); a Henslow’s in marginal habitat at North River Farms, NC 28 Apr QF et al.) and another even later at Clyde Shepard Nature Preserve, Decatur, GA 5 May QS); and a White-crowned in n. Greene, GA 13 May (PS), plus one at Beaufort, NC 20 May (R&SBo). Of particular interest were the 4 singing Grasshopper Sparrows at North River Farms, NC 6-20 May QF et al.), which sug- gests breeding in Carteret, previously undoc- umented. Lincoln’s Sparrows were reported in above-average numbers this spring, with sightings coming from all three states. The latest individuals, most indicative of pure transients, were found in the French Broad R. valley, Henderson, NC 12 May (MW et al.) and at Ivey Manor, Forsyth, GA 12 May (SB). Dickcissel reports were somewhat down from previous spring seasons. The best count again came from North River Farms, Carteret, NC with 9 on 20 May QF et al.). This season’s Yellow-headed Blackbird re- ports included 2 near Mocksville, Davie, NC in early Mar (fide TP), a female in Manteo, NC 13 Apr (LMg), a male at Harbison, Rich- land, SC 16-18 Apr (GR, JGi), a male at the E.L.H. 28-30 Apr (TMc et al., BZ et al), and one at Cochran Shoals, GA 6 May (fide TMu). Other interesting blackbird reports involved 3 Brewer’s Blackbirds somewhat late in Bartow, GA 6 Apr (B&DZ, PH), a Boat-tailed Grackle at the Tidewater Research Farm, Roper, NC 4 Apr (AM), and a male Shiny Cowbird near Darien, McIntosh, GA 27 May (BC). The win- tering Bullock’s Oriole in Dublin, GA was present until at least late Mar (fide LS). Balti- more Orioles also came through the mts. in good numbers, as evidenced by the 40+ at Jackson Park, Hendersonville, NC 5 May (WF et al.), a very high number for the spring season. Always worth mentioning. Red Cross- bill reports included 3 at a feeder in Epworth, Fannin, GA 29-30 Mar (NS), up to 3 at Asheville, NC 18-21 Mar and 14-28 Apr (ST), and 2 along Duncan Ridge RcL, Union, GA 28 May (HG et al.). Contributors: David Abbott (DAb), David Allen, Alan Ashley, Nate Bacheler, Steve Bar- low, Jeff Beane, Giff Beaton, Ken Blankenship, Brian Bockhahn, Rich & Susan Boyd (R&SBo), Mary Bridges (MBr), David Brinkman, Jerry Brunner QBr), Mark Buckler, Lyle Campbell, Chris Canfield, Derb Carter, Robin Carter, Walt Chambers (WCh), Bob Churi, Marjorie Clark, Mark Davis, Ricky Davis, Eric Dean, Nate Dias, David Disher, Bill Dobbins, Bruce & Traci Dralle (B&TDr), Car- oline Eastman, Frank Enders, Jack Fennell QFe), Jim Flynn QEl), Dennis Forsythe, Wayne Forsythe, Mark Freeman, Bruce Freske, John Fussell, Hugh Garrett, H. Gaskill, John Gerwin, Jason Giovannone (]Gi), Walker Golder, John Haire, Dale Hardee (DHa), Katherine Higgins, J. B. Hines O^H), Earl Horn, Pierre Howard, David Howell (DHo), Gene Keferl, Tim Keyes, Susan Koslowski, Carol Lambert, Jeff Lewis, Tim Lewis, Bill Lotz, Dwayne Martin, Greg Massey, Steve McConnell, Trey McCuen (TMc), Alan Meijer, Jeff Mollenhauer, Lloyd Moon, Terry Moore, Linda Morgan (LMg), Tracey Muise This female Red Crossbill (accompanied by another female and a male) was present at a feeder in Epworth, Fannin County, Georgia 29 and 30 (here) March 2007. Photograph by Dan Vickers. (TMu), Jim Ozier, Veronica Pantelidis, Tommy Patterson (TPa), Brian Patteson, Inc, (BPl), Rick Payne, Jack Peachey 0P£)> Gary Phillips, Taylor Piephoff, Doug Pratt, Todd Pusser (TPu), Glenda Rae, Frank Renfrow, Larry Rus- sell, James Sasser OSa), Lynn Schlup (LSc), Lois Schultz (LSz), Georgann Schmalz, Nedra Sekera, Ron Selvey, Jeff Sewell, Ann Shahid, Chris Skelton, Steve Slayton, Curtis Smalling (CSm), Clyde Sorenson (CSo), Josh & Ster- ling Southern 0<^SSo), Lois Stacey, Paul Sykes, Karen Theodorou, Simon Thompson, Mike Todd, Rusty Trump, Sharon & Phil Turner (S&PTu), Nick Van Lanen (NVL), Steve Wagner, Marilyn Westphal, Robin Wood, Bob & Deb Zaremba (B&DZ). I© Ricky Davis, 608 Smallwood Drive Rocky Mount, North Carolina 27804 (RJDNC@aol.com) VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 429 Florida Dry Tortugss NP m ^ . •Key West Bill Pranty It was a heady spring, with three “first” records — one of these new to the Ameri- can Birding Association Area — plus two additional potential first records — one of these new to the Area — which pushed the Florida list to more than 500 species. Three of these birds were located and photographed by Carl Goodrich! Winds during April and May were variable, at times from the east, bringing pelagics to the Atlantic coast and Caribbean- wintering or -migrating species to the “Green Key Migrant Funnel,” and at other times from the west, grounding uncountable numbers of trans-Gulf migrants, including what must have been thousands of Rose-breasted Gros- beaks. The best fallout days were 19-23 April and 15 May. Abbreviations/definitions: C.W.A. (Critical Wildlife Area); FO.S.R.C. (Florida Ornitho- logical Society Records Committee); N.S.R.A. (North Shore Recreation Area, Orange)] re- port (any observation); record (only reports verihable from photograph, videotape, or specimen evidence). WATERFOWL THROUGH VULTURES As usual. Black-bellied Whistling-Ducks lead off this report, with 510 at Gainesville, Alachua 13 Mar (B&JB), 141 at Lake Apopka N.S.R.A. 1 Apr (HR), 3 at Tallahassee, Leon 29 Apr-2 May (EW, GM), 94 at Viera Wetlands, Brevard 4 May (DaF), 7 at St. Petersburg, Pinellas 1 May (/ide MP), and 11 at Lake Townsen R.P., Hernando 24 May (A&BH). Per- haps the same single Common Eiders were at St. Augustine Inlet, St. Johns through 1 Apr (DRe) and Ft. Clinch S.P., Nassau 2 Apr (PLe). Evidently rare but regular breeders in the n., 6 Hooded Merganser chicks fledged at Tallahas- see 9 Apr OiS). Lingering water- fowl included 2 Ring-necked Ducks at Viera 31 May (AB), one Greater Scaup at Cedar Key, Levy 22 May (ReR), one Lesser Scaup at L. Maggiore, St. Petersburg 29 May (DG), and one Red-breasted Merganser at Green Key, New Port Richey, Pasco 31 May (BP). Red-throated Loons lingered at Ulumay Sanctuary, Merritt L, Bre- vard through 3 Mar (DaF) and Gulf Breeze, Santa Rosa through 8 Mar QF), while an alternate- plumaged Pacific Loon paused at Ft. Pickens, Escambia 12 Apr (BD, LD). Also in alternate plumage were 2 Horned Grebes at Cedar Key 22 May (ReR). The Eared Grebe at Ormond Beach, Volusia remained through 5 Mar (MBo et al). Trios of Black- capped Petrels and duos of Band-rumped Storm-Petrels were off Ponce de Leon Inlet, Vo- lusia 3 Apr and 3 May, along with a subad. Red-footed Booby 3 Apr and a Sooty Shearwa- ter 3 May (BoW, BHA et al., ph.). Off Miami, Miami-Dade were 60 Audubon’s Shearwaters 27 Apr (RT, TMi). Strong easterly winds in late May drove storm-petrels to the Atlantic coast, with one Leach's grounded at Jacksonville, Du- val 16 km from the ocean 20 May (fide PP; *Llniversity of Florida); 10 Wilson’s at Canaveral N.S., Brevard 25 May (TD); a Leach’s at Ft. George Inlet, Duval 27 May (RC); 2 Leach’s at New Smyrna Beach, Volusia 27 May (BoW); 2 Wilson’s and 4 Leach’s at Ponce de Leon Inlet 29 May; 2 Wilson’s and 4 Leach’s at Sebastian Inlet S.P, Brevard 29 May (AB); and a Leach’s at Boynton Inlet, Palm Beach 31 May (MBe). Boobies at Dry Tortugas totaled 67 Maskeds (64 ads.) and 27 Browns 18 Apr (MG). Single Browns were at New Smyrna Beach 8 May (MBo) and along the Okaloosa/Walton line 20 May (DW). The Marine Science Center at Ponce de Leon Inlet re- ceived 121 emaciated Northern Gannets, primarily yearlings, 21 Apr-17 May (MBo). Clearly lost, a Northern Gannet over Winter Park, Orange 17 May was 75 km inland (BHA)! The high count of American White Peli- cans at Polk phosphate mines totaled 5400 on 15 Mar (PF). For the first time ever, three species of cormorants were observed in Flori- da. In addition to a Great Cormorant at John U. Lloyd S.P., Broward 27 Mar-1 Apr (BRo et al., LaM, ph.), casual so far s., the state’s long- awaited first record of a Neotropic Cor- morant came from Boca Chica Key, Monroe 13 Apr (CGo, ph., acc.), which proved to be a one-day wonder. An American Bittern at Al- turas, Polk 30 May (CGe) was very late or summering. Extralimital Great White Herons made it to Tomoka Landfill, Volusia 1 Mar (DaF), Ormond Beach 24 Mar-10 Jun (MBo), Upthegrove Beach, Okeechobee 19 Apr (DS), and Dry Tortugas 27 Apr (MG). Reddish Egrets are increasing in the Panhandle but not yet breeding; this season, 7 graced St. Marks N.W.R., Wakulla 15-26 Mar QuC et al.), with 5 at St. Vincent N.W.R., Franklin 22 May (BSt). Also increasing in the state are reports of White-faced Ibis, with singles at Ft. Walton Beach W.T.R, Okaloosa 18 Apr-22 May (DW) and Sanibel L, Lee 28 Apr+ (CE et al, ph.), plus 4 at St. Marks 6 May (AB). At least one pair of Roseate Spoonbills bred at Gatorland, Polk 16 May (LR), furnishing one of the few inland breeding reports. A Black Vulture ob- served at Seven Springs, Pasco 12 May (KT) had been color-tagged at Avon Park, High- lands/Polk 10 Jan 2006 QH). RAPTORS THROUGH SH0RE6IRDS Three pairs of White-tailed Kites bred at Kissimmee Prairie Preserve S.P., Okeechobee during the season (PMi). The drought proba- bly caused some Snail Kites to disperse; 3 were e. of Floral City, Citrus 30 Mar (TR) and another near Hudson, Pasco 15 Apr (BSk). Mississippi Kite numbers in the cen. pen. were high: 2 in w. Indian River 9 Apr (DoF) and singles at Colt Creek S.P, Polk 11-15 May (CGe, B6irLC), Largo, Pinellas 16 May (IH), Cockroach Bay Aquatic Preserve, Hillsborough 19 May (RG, JeD), and Weekiwachee Pre- Representing a first for Florida, this Neotropic Cormorant was nicely documented at Boca Chica Key, Monroe County 13 April 2007. Photograph by Carl Goodrich. 430 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS FLORIDA Buff-breasted Sandpipers are extremely rare in peninsular Florida dur- ing spring, and these two (of six present) 1 3 April 2007 also furnished the first ever for Lake Okeechobee. Their dramatic courtship display had apparently never been observed previously in Florida. Photograph by BillPranty. serve, Hernando 23 May (A&BH). Another Mississippi Kite at Key Largo, Monroe 5 May QBo et al.) was perhaps even more surprising. Bald Eagles are still recovering their breeding range in the w. Panhandle; this season, there were three nests in Escambia or Santa Rosa (fide BD). The 46 eagles at Paynes Prairie Pre- serve S.P, Alachua 14 Apr (SRa) must have been an inspiring sight. Very late was the Sharp-shinned Hawk at Lake Apopka N.S.R.A. 27 May (HR). There were 10 reports of 22 Short-tailed Hawks (16 dark, 5 light, one unspecified) beginning 5 Mar, with ap- parent breeding pairs at Sawgrass Lake Park, St. Petersburg 19 Mar+ (RS, SPa et al), one dark morph at Dunedin Hammock Park, Pmellas 22 Apr (KT), and as many as six pairs in w. Pasco (KT). There were 6 Crested Caracaras at Viera 6 Mar (DaF), while Malo found birds in three sites 12 May; singles at Chuluota, Seminole and Seminole Ranch Con- servation Area, Orange, and 2 at Orlando Wetlands Park, Orange. A Yellow Rail was a surprise at Garcon Pt., Santa Rosa 1 Mar (DS), while 2 Black Rails en- Lake Okeechobee reached its lowest recorded depth of <3 m this season, due to the extended drought. First-ever surveys of the nw. corner of the lake, Glades and Okeechobee, by airboat documented extensive shorebird use of the exposed flats, which normally would be under 1-2 m of water: 630 Lesser Yellowlegs, 6 Buff- breasted Sandpipers, 455 Stilt Sandpipers, 16,000 peeps, and 1180 Long-billed Dowitchers 13 Apr, and 265 Black- bellied Plovers, 18 Spotted Sandpipers, 251 Semipalmat- ed Plovers, and 6650 peeps 8 May (BP, PG, GS et al). Sur- veys continued through Aug. livened St. Vincent N.W.R., Franklin 21 May (BSt). Extralimital Limpkins were singles at Key West, Monroe 21 Mar and 29 Apr (CGo) and along the Choctawhatchee R., Walton 17-20 May (JuS, ph.), while unusually high counts of 34 at Lake Townsen R.P 25 May (A&BH) and 35 at Lake Apopka N.S.R.A. 30 May (HR) may have been drought-related. Shorebirds at Polk mines included 251 American Avocets 1 Apr, 273 Stilt Sandpipers 28 Apr, 3700 Semipalmat- ed Sandpipers 19 May, 10,500 Least Sandpipers 13 May, and 390 Long- billeci Dowitchers 15 Mar (PT, CGe, PF). Late shorebirds included 2 American Golden-Plovers at Myakka River S.P, Sarasota 26 May (RS) and 2 Piping Plovers at Anclote Key, Pasco 2 May (KT). Among 26 American Oys- tercatchers at Little Estero Island C.W.A. 22 May (CE) were individuals banded in North Carolina, New jersey, and Virginia (3). A good count of 25 Spotted Sandpipers came from Port Orange, Volusia 25 Apr (BO). High counts of Solitary Sandpipers were 29 at Ft. De Soto Park, Pmellas 10 Apr (RS), 52 at Lake Apopka N.S.R.A. 21 Apr (HR), and 20 at Hague 22 Apr (MM). Probably related to the big fallout (see Table 1) was the Up- land Sandpiper at Key West 22 Apr (CGo). Rare but regular in Florida, single Hudsonian Godwits graced St. Vincent N.W.R. 19-22 May (BSt) and Alafia Bank, Hillsborough 19-29 May (CC et al., ph.). A flock of 1000 Red Knots at Ft. George Inlet, Duval 9 May included birds color-marked in Argentina, Brazil, and Chile (PLe). White-rumped Sandpipers were widespread, with 13 reports of 123 individuals 18 Apr-26 May. Unusually large for spring were the 29 Pectoral Sand- pipers at Lake Apopka N.S.R.A. 11 Apr (HR). An aberrant Dunlin with an orange bill and legs and white in the plumage was photographed at Merritt Island N.W.R. 24 Mar (S. Winston). Presumably the same Curlew Sandpiper was seen in Duval 30 Mar (BRi) and 20 May (PLe, ph.). A Wilson’s Snipe at Paynes Prairie Preserve 26 May+ (SF) was very late, while 3 American Woodcock chicks killed by a cat at Osteen, Volusia 9 Mar (*; fide AV) furnished very rare proof of breeding in the cen. pen. There was a mini- flight of Red-necked Phalaropes 27 Apr-i-, with singles at L. Okeechobee 8 May (BP, GS) and Emeralda Marsh 26-27 May (AL) estab- lishing firsts for Okeechobee and Lake, respec- tively. GULLS THROUGH WOODPECKERS A possible first-cycle Yellow-legged Gull at Tomoka Landfill 5 Mar (BoW, ph.; under re- view by EO.S.R.C.) furnished the first Florida report. Another review species was the Iceland Gull at Ponce de Leon Inlet 4-5 Apr (MBo, BoW, ph.). Less rare were single Glaucous Gulls at Milton, Santa Rosa 30 Mar (HeM) and Destin, Okaloosa 7 Apr (SB), 2 Lesser Black- backed Gulls at L. Okeechobee 13 Apr (BP et al), a Black-legged Kittiwake resting on the beach at Guana Reserve, St. Johns 29 Mar (LMe, ph.), and a Brown Noddy at Sebastian Inlet S.P 31 May (AB et al). A juv. Black Nod- dy was found, as usual, at Dry Tortugas 19 Apr-5 May (BM, ph.). Trips off Ponce de Leon Inlet netted 500+ Sooty Terns and 20 Bridled Terns 3 Apr, and 200 Sooties and 10 Bridleds 3 May (BoW et al.). Fifty other Bridleds were be- tween Key West and Dry Tortugas 3 May (BM). Two Least Terns at Lake Apopka N.S.R.A. 18 Mar were early, and 77 there 15 Apr made a good number of nonbreeders (HR). The 150 Least nests at Little Estero Island C.W.A. 12 May were eventually lost to Tropical Storm Bairy's storm surge (CE). The most significant of many Gull-billed Tern reports included 2 at a Least Tern colony at L. Okeechobee, Glades 13 Apr (BP et al.), 58, including 13 nests, at Polk mines 13 May (CGe, PT), and 70, including 31 nests, at Four-Corners Mine, Hillsborough 19 May (PF). A small flight of Common Terns 25 May-2 Jim was upstaged by a similar flight of Arctic Terns the same dates (not all were de- tailed): singles at Lake Apopka N.S.R.A. 25 May+ (HR), Viera 26 May (TD), Biscayne N.P., Miami-Dade 27 May (EA et al., ph. RT), A second-cycle Iceland Gull at Ponce de Leon Inlet, Florida 4-5 (here 4) April 2007 followed a winter in which two were reported in the state. Photo- graph by Sob Wallace. VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 431 FLORIDA Table 2. Migrants recorded at the "Migrant Funnel" stationary count. Green Key, New Port Richey, Pasco County, Florida, spring 2007. Species Total High Count Date Blackpoll Warbler 940 370 15 May Palm Warbler 519 87 23 Apr American Redstart 417 150 15 May Black-throated Blue Warbler 203 88 15 May Common Yellowthroat 158 30 15 May Cape May Warbler 139 57 23 Apr Prairie Warbler 128 18 22 Apr Bobolink 373 62 15 May Gray Catbird 198 33 17 Apr Indigo Bunting 192 163 19 Apr Barn Swallow 184 34 12 Apr Identified warblers 2433 707 15 May Unidentified warblers 5775 1275 23 Apr These results digest 44 daily counts, 0630-0900 hours, 31 Mar-31 May. The species listed numbered 100 or more individuals each during the sea- son. All observations by KT et al. Table 1. Migrants observed during a fallout at DryTor- tugas National Park, Monroe County, Florida, on 19 April 2007. Species Totals Sora 3 Upland Sandpiper 1 Black-billed Cuckoo 4 Yellow-billed Cuckoo 150 Ruby-throated Hummingbird 150 Eastern Wood-Pewee 3 Acadian Flycatcher 2 Eastern Kingbird 100 Veery 1 Gray-cheeked Thrush 4 Wood Thrush 3 Swainson's Thrush 25 Gray Catbird 300 White-eyed Vireo 6 Red-eyed Vireo 5 Blue-winged Warbler 2 Tennessee Warbler 20 Chestnut-sided Warbler 4 Magnolia Warbler 8 Black-throated Green Warbler 5 Blackburnian Warbler 1 Western Palm Warbler 18 Cerulean Warbler 1 American Redstart 20 Worm-eating Warbler 8 Swainson's Warbler 1 Northern Waterthrush 20 Kentucky Warbler 16 Hooded Warbler 45 Summer Tanager 10 Scarlet Tanager 18 Rose-breasted Grosbeak 7 Indigo Bunting 65 Dickcissel 1 Orchard Oriole 85 Baltimore Oriole 15 Total individuals 1125 Species listed were not present on 18 April or were pres- ent in smaller numbers; 90 species were observed on the 19th, 21 of these warblers. All observations by MG. Ft. Pierce Inlet, St. Lucie 30 May (DS), Boyn- ton Inlet 30 May (BH), and Port Canaveral, Brevard 31 May (KL), along with 6 at Ponce de Leon Inlet 28 May-2 Jun (MBo, BoW et al.) and 5 at Sebastian Inlet S.P 29 May+ (AB et al.). Good counts of Forsters Terns were 201 at Lake Apopka N.S.R.A. 21 Mar (HR) and 349 at Polk mines 19 May (PF). The win- tering flock of Black Skimmers at L. Okee- chobee numbered 1000 on 13 Apr (PG et ah), while 410 others graced Polk mines 13 May (PT, CGe), with 89 at Lake Apopka N.S.R.A. 27 May (HR). A Pomarine Jaeger was observed eating a Ring- billed Gull at New Smyrna Beach 25 May (JWi et ah, ph.). The Budgerigar population in Pasco seems limited to 3 birds at Hudson (KT, BP), while the Hernando population seems composed of eight pairs breed- ing in one yard at Hernando Beach (BP). A Black-hooded Parakeet at Spring Hill 9 Mar (DK), the first for Hernando, was either a pioneer or a local escapee. Black-billed Cuckoo reports were numerous, with singles at St. George L, Franklin 15 Apr (D&SJ, JiC), Key West 18, 21, & 23 Apr (CGo), Gainesville 29 Apr (PLa), Lake Pierce, Polk 5 May OiD). ^nd Cedar Key 26 May (DHe), plus 2 at Dry Tortugas 19 Apr (BM). Cavities in one palm snag at Matheson Hammock Park, Miami-Dade 11 Mar simultaneously supported apparent nests of Red-crowned Parrot and Eastern Screech-Owl, while a Red- bellied Woodpecker excavated a new cavity (BAi). One hundred Yellow-billed Cuckoos inundated Key West 11 Apr (CGo). A Barn Owl was a surprise at Dry Tortugas 18 Apr (MG), where casual. Two Lesser Nighthawks remained at Flamingo, Everglades N.P., Mon- roe through 26 Mar (AB et ah). Ten Chuck- will’s-widows flew in from the Gulf during mid-morning at Little Estero Lagoon 31 Mar (CE et al.), while another was 97 km off Ponce de Leon Inlet 3 Apr (MBo, BoW). Jack- sonville’s Calliope Hummingbird remained through 19 Mar (PP). The last-lingering Belt- ed Kingfisher tarried at Viera through 21 May (TD). Red-headed Woodpeckers, clearly mi- grants, paused at Elliot Key, Biscayne N.P., Mi- ami-Dade 9-11 Apr QV), Honeymoon Island S.P., Pinellas 24 Apr (WY), and St. Vincent N.W.R. 18-22 May (BSt). FLYCATCHERS THROUGH WAXWING Strong easterly winds for much of Apr and May created ideal conditions at the Green Key “Migrant Funnel,” New Port Richey (Table 2). This is a stationary count along the cen. Gulf coast in which hundreds of birds — ap- parently blown across the peninsula and per- haps even over the Gulf of Mexico — head back eastward, then northward within the first hours of daylight. The Brown-crested Flycatcher that wintered at Flamingo, Ever- glades N.P was seen until 26 Mar (AB et al.), while one at St. George Island S.P. 15 Apr (JiC, tD&SJ) clearly was a migrant. Winter roosts of Western Kingbirds numbered 54 birds at Lake Apopka N.S.R.A. 23 Mar (HR) and 60 at The Villages, Marion 31 Mar OiD). An Eastern Kingbird at Gainesville 15 Mar (SH) was early, while fallouts of 50 each were noted at Key West 17 Apr (CGo) and Dry Tor- tugas 19 Apr (BM). Thirty Scissor-tailed Ely- catchers at Stock 1. 28 Apr (DaE et al.) repre- sented a high count there. Lingering Scissor- taileds were found at Pensacola 19 May (PMc) and Astatula, Lake 21 May (GQ). Very rare in Elorida, a Warbling Vireo added to the bounty at Ft. De Soto 16-18 Apr (LA et al). Equally rare during spring were 2 Philadelphia Vireos at Key West 7 Apr (CGo). Representing the first verified record for the United States was a Loggerhead Kingbird at Ft. Zachary Taylor S.P., Key West 8-27 Mar (CGo et al., ph., acc.). Its bold crest, blackish cap and nape contrast- ing with grayish back, prominent white-edged wing coverts and tertials, and white underparts indicate one of three subspecies: from the Cuban mainland, from the Island of Youth, or from Grand Cayman (JGr). Past re- ports of this species have not been documented ade- quately, and at least one appears to refer to Giant King- bird. Required reading on the subject: Smith, P.W., G.E. Woolfenden, and A. Sprunt IV. 2000. The Loggerhead Kingbird in Florida: the evidence revisited. North Ameri- can Birds 5k 235-240. A Black-whiskered Vireo at Key West 9 Mar+ (CGo et al.) established the earliest date ever in Florida, while one at Captain Forster’s Hammock, Indian River 12 May (RS, BAh) 432 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS FLORIDA Two Bickneil's Thrushes were banded at Cape Florida State Park, Florida 1 2 May 2007, establishing one of few Florida records; the species apparently migrates through the state in both spring and fall, between breeding areas in the North- east and wintering grounds in the Greater Antilles. Photograph by Robin Diaz. represented a spring overshoot. A martin at Key West 28 Mar (CGo, ph.), identified as a Caribbean Martin, is under EO.S.R.C. re- view; field identification of Progne species from photographs is problematic. A Tree Swallow at Newnans L., Gainesville 24 May-i- (ReR) was very late, as was a Bank Swallow at Lake Apopka N.S.R.A. 30 May (HR). There were eight reports of 11 Cliff Swallows 25 Mar-28 Apr, including 2 at St. George 1. 15 Apr (AW) and 3 at Cape Canaveral 16 Apr (TD). Cave Swallows of the pallida (pelodoma) subspecies were reported at Ft. Pickens 12 Apr (2; BD, LD) and Bald Pt., Franklin 15 Apr (3;JM); 15 at Cape Canaver- al 16 Apr (TD) were also thought to be of this subspecies. A Brown Creeper along the Choctawhatchee R., Holmes 20 Apr (]uS) fur- nished one of the latest reports in the state. Lingerers from the winter’s invasion were 3 Golden-crowned Kinglets at Goethe S.F, Levy 8 Mar (BAh) and one at Gainesville 27 Mar (ES). A Ruby-crowned Kinglet at Dry Tor- tugas 3 May (BM) furnished a rare report for the park. Two Bickneil’s Thrushes were banded at Cape Florida S.E 12 May (MD, RD, ph., acc.), establishing one of few con- firmed Florida records. A Hermit Thrush tarried at Gainesville through 1 May (SF), with another at Dry Tortugas 4 May (BM, ph.). A minor flight of Wood Thrushes oc- curred 16-23 Apr, with at least 7 at Green Key 17 Apr (KT, BP) and 3 at Ft. De Soto 23 Apr (BAh et al.). All quite rare at the Dry Tortugas, a Northern Mock- ingbird 28 Apr-4 May (CGo, BM) was joined by a Bahama Mockingbird 4-5 May (BM, ph.), and both were preceded by a Brown Thrasher 20-23 Apr (MG). Other Ba- hama Mockingbirds enlivened Evergreen Cemetery, Ft. Laud- erdale, Broward 7-8 Apr (MS et al.) and Bill Baggs Cape Florida S.P., Miami-Dade 9 May QBo et al.). Good numbers of Cedar Waxwings staged this spring, with 500 at Miami 21 Mar QBo), 2240 at Lake Apopka N.S.R.A. 8 Apr (HR; the 2nd highest Florida count), 400 at West Kendall, Miami- Dade 12 Apr OBo), and 200 at Emeralda Marsh C.A. 11 May 0®). WARBLERS THROUGH FINCHES There were 14 reports of 22 Blue-winged Warblers 4-21 Apr, with 3 at Cedar Key 17 Apr (MJ) and 4 at Ft. De Soto 11 Apr (BAh, JGa), and single Golden-winged Warblers at St. Marks 28 Apr (DHo) and Viera 12 May (DaF et al). A female Brewster’s Warbler enlivened Key West 11 Apr (CGo). Warblers at Cape Florida include 24 Black-throated Blues banded 11 May, 152 Prairies 8 Apr, 120 Blackpolls 12 May, 134 American Redstarts (54 banded) 1 1 May and 450 (28 banded) 12 May, 27 Ovenbirds band- ed 28 Apr and 100 (27 banded) 9 May, 50 Northern Waterthrushes 9 May, and 200 Common Yellowthroats (31 banded) 10 May, 225 (87 banded) 11 May, and 420 (55 band- ed) 12 May (RD). Good counts of warblers at Key West were 40 Blackpoll Warblers 29-30 Apr, 50 Black-and-white Warblers 23 Apr, 50 Ovenbirds 11 Apr, and 100 Common Yel- lowthroats 23 Apr (CGo). A surprising 8 Nashville Warblers, all singles, were reported from Leon to Miami-Dade. Lingering Yellow- rumped Warblers were found at Newnans Lake 13 May QBr) and Gainesville 15 May (RoR). Simpson discovered a female Kirtland’s Warbler, the 4th record for Florida, at Sebas- tian Inlet S.R 10 May, which remained for two more days (RS, ph.). There were six reports totaling 7 Cerulean Warblers 16-28 Apr, in- cluding 2 at Ft. De Soto 21 Apr (PF), and nine reports totaling 21 Swainson’s Warblers, in- cluding 10 at Key West 11 Apr (CGo) and 7 at Ft. De Soto 11 Apr QCa, BAh et al.). Con- necticut Warblers were also reported more frequently than usual, with 14 reports of 21 individuals 9-23 May, all singles or duos ex- cept for trios at Ft. De Soto 23 May (TD) and Plantation Key 8 May (BM). Fifteen other Connecticuts were banded at Cape Florida 8- 12 May, and a Mourning Warbler was ob- served there 8 May (RD). The 2 wintering Western Tanagers at Tallahassee were last seen 19 Apr (FR). Three separate Western Spindalises were found in the state: the green- backed male that continued at Evergreen Cemetery, Ft. Lauderdale through 28 Apr (MBe et al.), and females discovered at Oleta River S.R, Miami-Dade 27 Apr (TVR) and Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, Boca Raton, Palm Beach 28-29 Apr (PC, BH et al.). A Spotted Towhee at Alligator Pt., Franklin 10 Mar-24 Apr (JM et al., ph.) fur- nished the 2nd record for Florida. Unusual was the Lark Sparrow heard singing at Bradenton, Mana- tee 4 Mar O^D). Three Le Conte’s Sparrows were banded in native dry prairie at Kissimmee Prairie Preserve 10 Mar (MK). Late or lin- gering sparrows included single Sa- vannah Sparrows at Lake Apopka N.S.R.A. (HR) and at Polk mine (PT, CGe), both 13 May, 2 Nelson’s Sharp-tailed Sparrows in w. Pasco 1 May (KT), a Song Sparrow in Wal- ton 12 May QWa), a Swamp Spar- row at Lake Apopka N.S.R.A. 9 May (HR), and a White-throated Sparrow at Dry Tortugas 3 May (BM). Always a good find, Lincoln’s Sparrows brightened Falling Waters S.P., Washington 27 Mar (BAh), Long Key S.E, Monroe 8 Apr (BM), Key West 10 Apr Florida's second Spotted Towhee turned up at Alligator Point, Franklin County on 10 March 2007 and remained through 24 (here 21) April. Photograph by Deanna Murphy. C A Found by three birders from St. Louis, the first-alternate male alba White Wagtail at Moon Lake Park, New Port 3fl Richey 18-19 & 22 Mar (DFa et al, ph., note to Florida Field Naturalist by BP) enthralled the few birders who saw it during its erratic visits. The wagtail furnished the first record for Florida (acc. by F.O.S.R.C. as state species #500) and the 5th for the Southeast; none has lingered longer than six days after discovery. VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 433 FLORIDA £)]ji)p Hi AliA hhJh'J HijJ iiJ3 m'juAAA yi'jA* Code 00001) Iiooo 0000 ffiS!®«®00/00 ‘DEB son 00/00 R^ous'^mingbird (Card code 00002) bur'll:! w American Birding® A s s o <• I A r I o N APPLY TODAY FOR THE AMERICAN BIRDING ASSOCIATION VISA® PLATINUM CARD * No Annual Fee * Low Introductory Rate * No balance transfer fee for six months It's the only card that ensures a percentage of every purchase you make will go toward the American Birding Association, to help support a variety of activities and programs designed to inspire all people to enjoy and protect wild birds. Choose from two distinct designs: Red-biiled Tropicbird or Rufous Hummingbird. To apply call 1-800-853-5576 ext. 8396 or apply online today www.americanbirding.org The creditor and issuer of the American Birding Association VISA Platinum Card is U.S. Bank National Association ND. (CGo), and Dry Tortugas 19 Apr (BM). Rose- breasted Grosbeaks made news nearly statewide; the proprietor of a birding-supply store at Gainesville received calls from about 40 people whose feeders were visited by gros- beaks on 21 Apr, and numerous other ob- servers reported similar events. The second- year male Lazuli Bunting at Oviedo 4-6 Apr (MA et al., ph.) furnished the 4th record for Florida. Large numbers of Indigo Buntings were associated with the 19 Apr fallout, with 250 at Ft. De Soto (LA, JGa et al), 163 at Green Key (Table 2), 100 over Palm Harbor, Pinellas in 1.5 hours (MK), and 80 at Key West (CGo). The fallout reached the e. coast as well, with many Jacksonville feeders re- porting 20 at a time, and one yard at Palatka, Putnam supported 100 buntings at once (fide PP). A female Painted Bunting at New Port Richey 31 May (ED) was quite late. The only triple-digit count of Bobolinks away from Green Key (Table 2) was at Lake Apopka N.S.R.A., where 595 were found 29 Apr (HR). Single Yellow-headed Blackbirds brightened Calhoun 6 Mar (TMc), Punta Gor- da, Charlotte 30 Mar (TL, TZ, ph.), and Ft. Walton Beach W.T.P. 14 Apr (BD). The male Brewers Blackbird at Homestead, Miami-Dade 19 Mar Obo, LaM, ph.) apparently furnished the first record for the s. peninsula. Mul- rooney observed all three cowbird species at Eagle Lakes Park 28 Apr. Shiny Cowbirds to- taled 11 reports of 17 individuals, with the northernmost being one at Alligator Pt. 22 May QM); a specimen was taken in Alachua 29 May (MR). Numbers of Orchard Orioles included 85 at Key West (see Table 1), 15 at Clearwater, Pinellas 20 Apr (LC), and 20 at Ft. De Soto 21 Apr (PF et al). The Bullock’s Oriole that wintered at Tallahassee remained through 12 Mar (FR, JiC). Gainesville’s win- tering Purple Finch stayed through 10 Mar (RoR), while the appearance of 8 others at Niceville, Okaloosa 12 May (tPB et al.) was difficult to explain. House Finches showed up in several new areas, among them pairs at Vero Beach, Indian River 9 May (BiW), Dunedin, Pinellas 27-28 May (SRo), and Brandon, Hillsborough (DG), with 10+ at San Antonio, Pasco (SPh). UNESTABLISHED EXOTICS Single White-faced Whistling-Ducks — pre- sumably escapees — enlivened Walsingham Park, Pinellas 23 Mar (IH, ph.) and Lakeland, Polk 29 Apr-May (HMo, JoC, ph.). The juv. Trumpeter Swan in a canal in rural Okee- chobee 27 Apr-2 May (PG, PMi et al., B63:LC, ph.) furnished a bizarre record — only the 2nd for Florida. A nesting pair of Superb Starlings (Lamprotornis superbus), native to Africa, brought color to a Hallandale Beach, Broward intersection in May (LaM, ph.) and was the latest nesting exotic to be verified in Florida. Further colonization of Common Mynas was provided by pairs at Punta Gorda (TZ et al.). Ft. Myers (CE), and Elamingo 27 May (MBe). Cited observers (regional editors of the Elori- da Ornithological Society Eield Observations Committee in boldface): Mary Acken, Brian Ahern (BAh), Bruce Aikins (BAi), Elsa Alvear, Bruce H. Anderson (BHA), Lyn Atherton, Pat Baker, Andy Bankert, Steve Barlow, Mark Berney (MBe), Bill & Jan Bolte (B&JB), John Boyd Obo), Michael Brothers (MBr), Judy Bryan Qbr), John Callaghan OoO. Carol Cas- sels, Jim Cavanagh QiC), Liz Childress, Roger Clark, Pinya Cohen, Buck & Linda Cooper (B&LC), Judy Cooke (JuC), Michelle Davis, Robin Diaz, James Dinsmore QaD), Jim DuBois QiD), Eva DuPuis, Jeanne Dubi (JeD), Bob Duncan, Lucy Duncan, Tom Dunkerton, Charlie Ewell, David Eaintich (DEa), Paul Fellers, Scott Flamand, David Freeland (DaF), Dot Freeman (DoF), Jere French, Jill Gaetzi QCa), Murray Gardler, Chuck Geanangel (CGe), Carl Goodrich (CGo), David Goodwin, Paul Gray, Jon Greenlaw Ogr). bick Green- spun, Al & Bev Hansen (A&BH), Dale Hen- derson (DHe), Irene Hernandez, Steve Hofstet- ter, Brian Hope, David Houle (DHo), John Humphrey, Marcy Jones, Dean & Sally Jue (D&SJ), Don Knodle, Marianne Korosy Ken LaBorde, Phil Laipis (PLa), Pat Leary (PLe), Tony Licata, Angela Luzader, Lome Malo (LoM), Mike Manetz, Larry Manfredi (LaM), Travis McClendon (TMc), Powers McLeod (PMc), Linda Melch (LMe), Gail Menk, Paul Miller (PMi), Trey Mitchell (TMi), Heidi Moore (HeM), Herman Moulden (HMo), Brennan Mulrooney, John Murphy, Brenda Orr, Scott Patterson (SPa), Mauri Peterson, Sharon Phillips (SPh), Peggy Powell, Bill Pranty, Cal- lus Quigley, Stefan Rayer (SRa), Diane Reed (DRe), Matthew Reetz, Bob Richter (BRi), Tom Ritchie, Bryant Roberts (BRo), Dotty Robbins (DRo), Harry Robinson, Ron Robinson (RoR), Susan Robinson (SRo), Larry Rosen, "Victoria Rothman, Rex Rowan (ReR), Fran Rutkovsky, Earl Scales, Greg Schrott, David Simpson, Bud Skiba (BSk), Ron Smith, Justyn Stahl Barbara Stedman (BSt), Jim Stevenson QiS). Monte Shekel, Pete Timmer, Roberto Torres, Ken Tracey, Juan "Valadez, Alex Vinokur, Billi Wagner (BiW), Bob Wallace (BoW), John Wal- ton QWa), Don Ware, Jennifer Winters QWi), Ed Woodruff, Andy Wraithmell, Wilfred Yusek, Tom Zinneman. O Bill Pranty, 8515 Village Mill Row Bayonet Point, Florida 34667, (billprantyiahotmail.com) 434 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS Matthew L. Holder As the lingering wintering birds extend- ed their stay into the spring period, re- turning migrants began to arrive in Ontario on schedule, only to have winter-like conditions hit the province again in April. A shift to seasonal temperatures in late April ac- celerated the rate of migrant arrival, and a number of record-early species were noted in certain regions. Weather conditions on May 15 created fallouts in southern Ontario, lead- ing to an exciting situation for many birders who were able to take the time mid-week to find the large numbers of landbirds seeking shelter. Interesting vagrants included Western Grebe, Snowy Plover, Black-necked Stilt, Sprague’s Pipit, Townsend’s Warbler, and Cassin’s Sparrow. Abbreviations: L.P.B.O. (Long Point B.O., Norfolk)', N.P.H (Niagara Peninsula Hawk- watch, Niagara); R E. Pt. (Prince Edward Pt., Prince Edward); PRB.A. (Point Pelee Birding Area; Point Pelee N.R and environs, Essex); s.l. (sewage lagoons); T.C.B.O. (Thunder Cape B.O., Thunder Bay). Place names in ital- ics refer to districts and regional municipali- ties as well as to counties. WATERFOWL THROUGH IBISES It was another good spring for Greater White- fronted Geese, with 4 at Long Pt., Norfolk 16 Mar-Apr (DS), 2 near Bourget, Prescott & Rus- sell 25 Mar (fide CL), and one in Ottawa 26-27 Apr (TB). However, truly remarkable were the 35 birds at St. Clair N.W.A., Chatham-Kent 23 Mar (fide JGH), surpassed by the 37 at St. Joseph L, Algoma 27-28 Mar (BK), with 19 of this flock found to the n. at Echo Bay 1-3 Apr (KZ). Single Ross’s Geese were at Long Pt., Norfolk 2 Mar-Apr (RR), near St. Isadore, Prescott & Russell 21 Apr (BY), and near Echo Bay, Algoma 1-3 Apr (KZ), the latter bird prob- ably from the flock of 3 at nearby St. Joseph 1. 28 Mar (KM, KZ). Alfred, Prescott & Russell hosted 2 Ross’s Geese 7-9 May QB), then 4 on 12 May (JB). A strong flight of Brant during May peaked with 5500 at Kingston, Erontenac 22 May (KEN). Single Eurasian Wigeons were at Big Cr., Norfolk 20-21 Mar (S&DJ), Port Rowan, Norfolk 23 Mar (ME), Reesor Pond, York 21 Apr (SLo), Cranberry Marsh, Durham 21 Apr (GG), Amherst 1., Erontenac 21 Apr-17 May O&BM et al.), and Ripley s.l., Bruce 29- 30 Apr (JT). A single male King Eider was at the Tip of Pt. Pelee 22-31 Mar (AW), and per- haps a different bird flew past the Tip 15 May (RC, KAM et al.). The usual smattering of Harlequin Ducks lingered from the winter at various s. Ontario locales, but 2 at the Tip of Pt. Pelee 7 May QMT, RGT, MH) were note- worthy. Record early for Algonquin P.P, Nipissitrg were 4 Surf Scoters at L. of Two Rivers 1 May (KC, CDJ, JPe). Lingering Bar- row’s Goldeneyes were at Remic Rapids, Ot- tawa, and Presqu’ile P.P, Northumberland through 11 Mar and at Strathcona Park, Ot- tawa 20 Mar, and a female was at R E. Pt. 24 Mar OHE, VPM, RDW et al). A male Ruddy Duck at Emo s.l. 26 Apr (DHE) was rare for Rainy River. Long Pt.’s first ever Pacific Loon was at Breakwater 19 & 21 May (EH, EIN), and an imm. was at the Tip of Pt. Pelee 30 May (BRH, LR). A good number of Eared Grebes was not- ed around the province, with as many as 13 observations and a total of four observations at the Tip of Pt. Pelee in Apr, including 2 there 14 Apr (PDP et al.). The first was at Humber Bay, Toronto 15 Mar OS, JE) followed by one at Grimsby s.l., Niagara 30 Mar-30 Apr (CEE, DRD) for the area’s earliest record. Other sin- gles were at Ward’s I., Toronto 9 Apr (NMu, MLV, EO), Long Pt. 17 Apr (LPBO), Colonel Samuel Smith Park, Toronto 20 Apr (NM), Townsend s.l., Haldimand 21 Apr (KGB, MBu et al.). Grand Bend s.l., Lambton 15 May (fide AR), and Emo s.l. and Rainy River s.l. in Rainy River 18 May (DHE). A Western Grebe was at Leslie Street Spit, Toronto 9 Mar-8 Apr (RL, GC), and likely a 2nd bird was off Bronte, Halton 5-9 Apr (MWJ). Single Ameri- can White Pelicans were at Cook’s Bay, York 9- 11 May (AD), London, Middlesex 21-22 May (BMc), and Mitchell s.l., Perth 30 May (NK, GM). Two were at Rondeau PR, Chatham- Kent 19-25 May (m.ob.), and 3 were at L. Nipissing, Nipissing 27-30 May (TF). A record-early Least Bittern for Hamilton was at Hamilton Mt. 26 Apr (PS et al.), and one was n. to North Bay, Nipissing 22 May (NNC). An ad. Little Blue Heron was at Toronto 20 Apr (ph. GJ et al.), and another at St. Catherine’s, Niagara 13-16 May (S. Tay- Ontario lor). A Green Heron was photographed at Sil- ver Harbour C.A., Thunder Bay 18 May (MRi), and a Yellow-crowned Night-Heron was in Ottawa 9 Apr (MRo). An unidentified ibis was at Hillman Marsh, Essex 29 Apr (fide AW), and single Glossy Ibis were at Colling- wood, Sitncoe 12-15 May (ph. D&JM), Ne- pean, Ottawa 16 May (fide CL), and Cassel- man s.l., Prescott & Russell 20 May (BB, CL et al.), the latter moving to Winchester s.l., Stor- rnont-Dundas-Glengarry 23 May (DBt, JR). VULTURES THROUGH SANDPIPERS A Black Vulture was at Long Pt. 29-30 Apr (FIN, SAM), and another was Pt. Pelee 3 May (KGB et al.). An Osprey at Cayuga, Haldimand 17 Mar was record early for the area (L&AT). An imm. Mississippi Kite was at Pt. Pelee N.R 11-18 May (MDF, SF, EAS). Very rare in the e., 2 apparently different dark- morph Broad-winged Hawks were noted in Apr: a bird in second-basic plumage (in its 3rd calendar year) at Beamer C.A., Niagara 24 Apr (ph., RC, NPH), and a juv. (in its 2nd cal- endar year) at Burlington, Halton 26 Apr (TT). Away from the more traditional winter- ing areas in cen. Ontario, a migrant Golden Eagle was at Pt. Pelee 17 Mar (IMR). A Yellow Rail was heard at Long Point PR, Norfolk 24 May (MDB), and remarkably, a King Rail was reported from Pumpkin Marsh, Algoma 29-30 May (KZ). A Sora heard in a marsh along Hwy. 60 on 29 Apr (BMD) was record early for Algonquin RR Several obser- vations of migrating released Whooping Cranes were made at Wheatley, Chatham-Kent 23 Mar (GTH), in the London and Long Pt. areas in Apr (TBo, P&SH; JR SAM), and in Nepean, Ottawa 26 May (TB, G&HS). A high count of 3832 Black-bellied Plovers was not- ed near Merlin, Chatham-Kent 27 May (AW), while the maximum count for American Golden-Plover near Merlin was 320 on 8 May (AW). A Snowy Plover lingered at Pelee L, Essex 29 May-1 Jun (ph. ACP et al), and a fe- male Black-necked Stilt stayed for just one day at Hillman Marsh, Essex 22 May (ph. STR MJSi). Three American Avocets were at SE and SW Hillman Marsh 5 May (MK, MAK), then at NW Hillman Marsh 16 May (fide AW). Single avocets were at Grand Bend s.l., Lambton 10 May (RT) and Leslie Street Spit, Toronto 22 May (DD). Single Willets were re- ported from Durham, Niagara and as far e. as Alfred, Prescott & Russell QB) in May, but flocks were reported in Apr, the largest being 20 near Pt. Pelee 28 Apr (STR IMR, GBM). Large numbers of Whimbrels were reported from w. L. Ontario during May, but especially noteworthy was a white-rumped bird (either the nominate subspecies or variegatus) on VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 435 ONTARIO Amherst 1., Frontenac 22 May (BR). Away from sw. Ontario, single Marbled Godwits were at Amherst I, 1-5 May OHE, VPM et ah), St. Isadore, Prescott & Russell 20-25 May QB, CB) and Alfred, Prescott & Russell 23 May (fide CL). Pt. Pelee hosted a late Purple Sand- piper 15 May (BRH, EWH) and a male Ruff 24 May (AW, GLS, SES). GULLS THROUGH WOODPECKERS Single Laughing Gulls were near Leamington, Essex 22 Mar (AW), at Bronte harbor, Halton 1 May (MWJ), at Long Pt. 16-19 May (SAM, FIN, EH et ah), near Wheatley Harbour, Chathain-Kent 19 May (BRH, GTH), and at Pt. Pelee 23 May (BRH, LR). In Northumberland, Cobourg’s bird of the spring was a long-stay- ing Laughing Gull at the harbor, 4 Mar-21 May (KN). Two were at Pelee 1. 25 & 27 May (AGP) and at Black Willow Beach, Essex 26 May (STP, CG). A Franklin’s Gull was at Wheatley Harbour 2 May (DSh, IS). A rare melanistic imm. Bonaparte’s Gull was at Pt. Pelee 9 May (KAM). An apparent Herring Gull X Great Black-backed Gull hybrid was at Wheatley Harbour 27 Apr (AW), and up to 2 Great Black-backed Gulls were at Thunder Bay 30 Apr-5 May (GGo, KW, AHa). A Caspi- an Tern at Hamilton 28 Mar (RZD) marked a record-early arrival for the area. A Yellow-billed Cuckoo was n. to Bala, Muskoka 26 May (D&NM). An exciting but saddening roadkill was a Barn Owl found near Wheatley, Chatham-Kent 16 Apr (fide PAW). A perched Chuck-will’s-widow was found at Long Point PR, Norfolk 12 May (JG), and another was at the Tip of Pt. Pelee 13-14 May (DWL, GML). The Ruby-throated Hum- mingbird at Hamilton Mt. 11 Apr (fide CC) was record early for Hamilton. Both very rare woodpeckers in Thunder Bay, a Red-headed Woodpecker visited a Pine Bay feeder 5-9 May (ph. S&RI), and single Red-bellied Woodpeckers were at Marathon 10 May (PC) and T.C.B.O. 18 May (AH, RG, MR). A Yel- low-bellied Sapsucker was record early at Al- gonquin P.P 30 Apr (ADo, RGT). Algonquin reported the largest irruption of American Three-toed Woodpeckers ever seen in the park this past winter, with the last observa- tion on 12 May (WP). FLYCATCHERS THROUGH BLACKBIRDS It was a poor spring for rare flycatchers, with the usual Acadian Flyatchers seen on migra- tion at s. Ontario locations and a Western Kingbird at Hurkett, Thunder Bay 22 May (BMo). A Black-billed Magpie associating with a flock of Blue Jays was at Cabot Head B.O., Bruce 14 May (TC, RS, DR et al.) but did not linger for anyone else to spot this rare visitor to s. Ontario. At P E. Pt., 22 Apr brought peaks of 110 Brown Creepers, 110 Golden- crowned Kinglets, and 400 Ruby-crowned Kinglets (fide RTS). The wintering Varied Thrush at Selkirk RE, Haldimand remained through 3 Mar OH): arid another was at Port Britain, Northumberland 29 Apr (GL). Brown Thrashers at Thunder Bay 6 May (FJ) and Pine Bay (S&Rl) were rare sights in Thunder Bay. It was a noteworthy spring for rare war- blers, with many migrant overshoots and a few w. vagrants. Observers at Thunder Cape banded a Golden-winged Warbler 8 May (JW) and observed another 12 May (T.C.B.O.). Rare in Ontario, an Audubon’s Warbler was at Presqu’ile PR, Northumber- land 27 & 30 Apr (MB). The rarest warbler of the spring was an ad. male Townsend’s Warbler at Rondeau RR, Chatham-Kent 5 May (GS). The first Yellow-throated Warbler of the spring was identified as dominica at Stoney Creek, Hamilton 26-30 Apr (KDi). Others, of which at least some were identi- fied as albilora, were at Long Pt., Norfolk (RR, SAM) and Rondeau PR, Chatham-Kent (SL et al), both 9 May, at Leslie Street Spit, Toronto 11 May (ph. DD), at Pt. Pelee N.R 15 May (CH, RM, SM et al), and n. to Thun- der Cape, Thunder Bay 19 May (AH, RG, MR). A Pine Warbler at Hamilton 5 Apr was record early for the Region (BSC), and 2 Palm Warblers at Bronte, Halton 6 Apr (MC, JH) were also record early for the Hamilton area. An imm. female Kirtland’s Warbler was at Pt. Pelee 14 May (RLW, KAM), followed by a male there 21-23 May (GBM); an imm. male Kirtland’s was at Rondeau PR, Chatham-Kent 18 May (BAM). A Bay-breast- ed Warbler at Cauliflower L. 6 May (DTo) was record early for Algonquin RR Outside of their usual occurrence in the spring, Pro- thonotary Warblers appeared at Tobermory, Bruce 15 May (M&GW) and Ottawa 28-30 May (BRo). A total of 7 Worm-eating War- blers was tallied in the P.P.B.A. in May (m.ob.), with the only other one reported oc- curring at Long Pt. 9 May QG)- North of its usual range in the province, a Louisiana Wa- terthrush was at Komoka, Middlesex 18 May (BM). Within Pt. Pelee N.R, Essex, 11 Ken- tucky Warblers were noted from 23 Apr-24 May (m.ob.). Elsewhere, single Kentucky Warblers were at Rondeau RR, Chatham- KetU 30 Apr (DBr, MO) and 22 May Oh), at P. E. Pt. 9 (RTS et al.) 61 19 May (RTS et al), at Cootes Paradise, Hamilton 17 May (RZD, CEE), and at the Tip of Long Pt., Norfolk 27- 28 May (ph. SAM). One of the more inter- esting observations of the spring was a pos- sible hybrid warbler at Eanshawe Lake C.A., Middlesex 21 May QMcG), exhibiting char- acteristics of both Mourning Warbler and Common Yellowthroat. It was vocalizing like a Common Yellowthroat but looked more like a Mourning Warbler, except for its whitish throat and upper breast. Three Hooded Warblers were at P. E. Pt. 1 1-23 May (m.ob.), and up to 5 Yellow-breasted Chats were there 9-19 May (DO). Seven Summer Tanagers were at Rondeau RR, Chatham-Kent during May (m.ob.), and 10 were at Pt. Pelee N.R 4-19 May (m.ob.), in- cluding one at Tilden’s Woods eating honey- bees from a hive, a behavior regularly ob- served in the park (STP, DK, KK). Elsewhere, Summer Tanagers were at R E. Pt. 13 & 23 May (fide RTS), Long Pt. RR, Norfolk 16 & 26 May (RR), Oungah, Chatham-Kent 18 May (AVE), and High Park, Toronto 25 May (SME). The Eastern Towhee at Westover 14 Mar (BNC) represented Hamilton's earliest record. A highlight of the spring was a Cassin’s Spar- row handed and photographed at the Tip of Long Pt., Norfolk 30 May (FIN, DRB), Long Pt.’s 2nd ever. Single Lark Sparrows were at Sturgeon Cr., Essex 28 Apr OEB, DWB), at the Tip of Pt. Pelee 11 May OBL), and at Colonel Samuel Smith Park, Toronto 21 May (WER). The Lark Sparrow near Walsingham, Norfolk 12 May grew to 2 singing birds into jun (CEs, m.ob.). The Lark Bunting at Ruthven, Essex 9- 10 May (HB, MBr) was photographed, as was the male Lark Bunting way to the n. in Minni- taki, Kenora 25 May (CE). The Savannah Sparrow at Beamsville, Niagara 13 Mar (BNC) provided an early record for the area. A total of 8 Henslow’s Sparrows in Point Pelee N.R was a great showing for this species, vHth the ear- liest ever seen 17 Mar (ACP). Away from Pt. Pelee, another was at Concession Road A, Norfolk 25 Apr (fide SAM). A Le Conte’s Spar- row was record early at Erieau, Chatham-Kent 10 Mar (BAM). Three were at Pt. Pelee during the spring (m.ob.), another was at Toronto Is- land Airport 10 May (DB, JPs), and one was at Long Pt. 24 May (LPBO). Single Nelson’s Sharp-tailed Sparrows were at Long Pt. 8 May (L.P.B.O.), at Sturgeon Cr., Essex 16 May (STP), and at Pt. Pelee N.R 18 (HTO) & 22 May (BRH, LR). The Harris’s Sparrow visiting a feeder near Bloomfield, Prince Edward re- mained until at least 25 Apr (NF); another was at Long Pt. PR, Norfolk 28-29 Apr (K&RB). The ad. male Northern Cardinal singing at Beaver Pond Trail 15 May (DA) was both very rare for Algonquin RR, Nipissing and record early. Blue Grosbeaks were at Emsdale, Parry Sound 2-4 May (KD), Hungry Hollow, Middle- sex 9-10 May QPC), Pelee L, Essex 11 May 436 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS ONTARIO (RTy, DP), and Longlac, Thunder Bay 23 May (FJ). Single Dickcissels were at Ft. Pelee N.P. 15 (MJS, WW) & 27 May (RP, CS, JR), and an imm. male was banded and observed at Long Pt., Norfolk 26-29 May (TTH, SAM). A strong flight of Rusty Blackbirds at P. E. Pt. mid- Mar-late Apr peaked at 185 on 29 Apr (KEN). Cited observers (subregional contributors in boldface): Maris Apse, Denis Audette, Mar- garet j. C. Bain, David Beadle, Tony Beck, Michael A. Biro, Tom Bolohan (TBo), Jacques Bouvier, Mike D. Boyd, Howard Brackell, Margaret Brackell (MBr), Bob Bracken, David W. Bradley, James E. Bradley, David Britton (DBt), Dave Brown (DBr), Dave R. Brown, Kim & Rick Brown, Christine Brunet, Ken- neth G. Burrell, Mike Burrell (MBu), Cindy Cartwirght, Pat Chadwick, J. Peter Chapman, Barbara N. Charlton, Barry S. Cherriere, Ted Cheskey Kevin Clute, Glenn Coady, Mark Cranford, Robert Curry, Andrew Davis, Kip Daynard, Dan Derbyshire, Bruce M. Di Labio, Karl Dix (KDi), Robert Z. Dobos, Andrew Don (ADo), David R. Don, Carolle Eady, Cheryl E. Edgecombe, Marienna Egressey, David H. Elder, Joel H. Ellis, Chris Escott (CEs), Nicholas G. Escott, Jim Fairchild, Steven M. Favier, Michael D. Fitzpatrick, Sue Fortuna, Nancy Fox, Travis Fryer, Gord Gal- lant, Carlos Garcia, Jacques Girard, Geoffrey Gooding (GGo), Clive E. Goodwin, Ray Gribble, John G. Haggeman, Allan Hale, Tiarella T. Hanna, Edvin Hannson, A1 Harris (AHa), Pat & Sam Heard, Jim Heslop, G. Tom Hince, Chris Hines, Brandon R. Holden, Eric W. Holden, Mark Hubinger, S. & R. Illing- worth, Anita Jacobsen, Ered Jennings, Mark W. Jennings, Susan and Don Johnston, Colin D. Jones, Graham Jones, M. Kelly, David Kent, Kathy Kent, Michael A. Kielb, Kingston Eield Naturalists, Nathan Klassen, Bob Knudsen, Steve LaForest, John Lamey Rick Lauzon, James B. Lesser, Dennis W. Lewington, Gwen M. Lewington, Chris Lewis, G. Little, Mar- garet V Liubaviucius, Stan Long (SLo), Long Point Bird Observatory, Neil MacDougall, Stuart A. Mackenzie, V P. Mackenzie, Ross Mackintosh, Sandy Mackintosh, Bill Madde- ford, Blake A. Mann, G. Brock May, John McEachen, Jason McGuire QMcG), Ken Mcll- wrick, Gretchen McKerlie, Kevin A. McLaughlin, Bill McLeod (BMc), J.& B. McMahon, Dagmar & John McNichol, Stephane Menu (SMe), Brian Moore (BMo), Norm Murr (NMu), Niagara Peninsula Hawkwatch, Fergus 1. Nicoll, K. Niles, Dinny & Neil Nimmo, Nipissing Naturalists Club, Ed O’Connor, David Okines, Henrietta T. O’Neil, Matt Oswald, Jesse Pakkala, Daryl Parsons, William Perry, Justin Peter (JPe), Jay Peterson QPs), Stephen T. Pike, Adam C. Pinch, Roland Power, Paul D. Pratt, Lauren Rae, Malcolm Rains, Peter Read, Jim Red- wood, Wayne E. Renaud, Ian M. Richards, Mary Richardson (MRi), Alf Rider, Ron Rid- out, Bruce Ripley, Blyth Robertson (BRo), Michelle Roderick (MRo), Jack Romanow, David Ross, B.Rowe, Gary Sadler, Diane Salter, Peter Scholtens, Michael J. Sefton, Garold L. Settje, Shirley E. Settje, Don Shana- han (DSh), Ian Shanahan, Michael J. Simms (MJSi), Roy B.H. Smith, Ellen A. Smout, George & Helen Spearman, R. Terry Sprague, Rod Steinacher, Colin Stephens, John Stirrat, Dick Tafel, J. Michael Tate, Barbara Taylor, Tom Thomas, Rick Thornton, Linda & A1 Thrower, Thunder Cape Bird Observatory, Doug Tozer (DTo), Ronald G. Tozer, James Turland, Rob Tymstra (RTy), Anton Van Eerd, Keith Wade, Robert L. Waldhuber, Will We- ber, Ron D. Weir, Margie & Gwenda Wilkes, John Woodcock, P. Allen Woodliffe, Alan Wormington, Brian Young, Kirk Zufelt. © Matthew L. Holder, 24395 Thorah Park Boulevard Beaverton, Ontario LOK 1A0, (holderkingsley@rogers.com) Eastern Highlands & Upper Ohio River Valley | Victor W. Fazio, III RickWiltraut March began with a quick thaw of the late-winter snows of February. This melting of an especially thick snow pack left widespread agricultural flooding throughout the western till plains into early April, providing a very hospitable environ- ment for migrant waterfowl. Late March was marked, as it has been normally of late, with dramatic warmth from southern climes. This brought record arrival dates for a few species, but the effect was neither so pervasive nor so pronounced as in previous years. The warm spell was replaced by a dramatic return to winter in early April. In the east, mid-April was marked by a severe coastal storm, and its attendant heavy precipitation had immediate impacts on birds and birding. In the west, the inclement weather held up migration for weeks, allowing for a tremendous release of migrants the 23-24 April that was marked by record concentrations and a few rarities. Wave migration, with strong and frequent fallouts, was the norm into May, even as the month grew drier than normal. This led to some remarkable tallies of Neotropical mi- grants for mist-netting operations. For all its ups and downs, this was a fairly typical spring migration, despite the pendulum swings of weather and migratory movements. A first state record for West Virginia came in the form of Red Knot. Apart from lingering rari- ties from the winter season, the outstanding find had to be the Yellow-billed Loon in Penn- sylvania, a state first. And finally, acceptance of a Red-naped Sapsucker and White-throat- ed Swift from spring 2006 added to the Ohio state list. Abbreviations: B.E.S.P (Bald Eagle S.P., Cen- tre, PA); B.S.B.O. (Black Swamp B. O., OH); B. C.S.P. (Buck Creek S.R, Clark, OH); C.E Conejohela Flats, Lancaster, PA); Conneaut (Conneaut Harbor, Ashtabula, OH); C.C.S.P. (Caesar Creek S.R, Warren/Greene, OH); C. ER. (Clear Fork Res., Richland/Morrow, OH); G.L.R. (Green Lane Res., Montgomery, PA); Green Bottom (Green Bottom WM.A., Cabell/Mason, WV); Headlands (Headlands Beach S.P & N.P, Lake, OH); Hoover (Hoover Res., Delaware/Franklin, OH); H.W.S.P (Hue- ston Woods S.R, Preble/Butler, OH); I.B.A. (Important Bird Area); Killbuck (Killbuck Marsh W.M.A., Wayne/Holmes, OH); Long- brakes (Longbrake Wetlands, Hardin, OH); L. N. (L. Nockamixon, Bucks, PA); L.O. (L. Ontelaunee, Berks, PA); M.C.W.M.A. (Middle Creek W.M.A., Lancaster /Lebanon, PA); Magee (Magee Marsh W.M.A., Lucas/Ottawa, OH); Metzger (Metzger Marsh W.A., Lucas, OH); M. W.W. (Miami Whitewater Wetlands, Hamilton, OH); Ottawa (Ottawa N.W.R., Lu- cas/Ottawa, OH); P.M.C. (Pennsylvania Mi- gration Count; 12 May); P.W.T. (Penn Warner VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 437 EASTERN HIGHLANDS & UPPER OHIO RIVER VALLEY This Yellow-billed Loon at Harrisburg, Pennsylvania 4-7 (here 6) May 2007 represented a first state record and was well documented by many. Photograph by Christopher Bohinski. Tract, Bucks, PA); RI.S.P (Presque Isle S.P, Erie, PA); R.C.B. (Robert C. Byrd Lock & Dam, Mason, WV); Shawnee (Shawnee S.P & S.E, Scioto, OH); S.L. (Slruble L., Chester, PA); Spring Valley (Spring Valley W.M.A., Warren/Greene, OH); S.R. (Susquehanna R., Dauphin, PA); W.V.D.N.R. (West Virginia De- partment of Natural Resources); Y.C.S.P. (Yel- low Creek S.R, Indiana, PA). WATERFOWL THROUGH IBIS The high count of Greater White-fronted Geese was 3 at G.L.R. 1 Mar (KFC). Still note- worthy in spring in Ohio, a Cackling Goose was at Spring Valley 8 Mar OHg); 2 appeared 17 Mar in Hardin, OH (RC) and 2 the next day in Auglaize, OH (RA). Snow Goose num- bers at M.C.W.M.A. peaked at 180,000 over 8- 1 1 Mar (m.ob.), and 3 Ross’s Geese were there 25 Mar (RK, AMa). Another Ross’s was in Berks, PA 26 Mar (KFC). One was studied in Holmes, OH 9-10 Apr (fide BG, AN). A Ross’s Goose was at, Green Bottom 4-12 Mar 0- Waggy, DP, MG, GR) and one at Cowan L., Clinton, OH 3-8 Mar (ph. RA, B. Powell). Up to 3000 Tundra Swans were present at M.C.W.M.A. 8-11 Mar (fide MM); other good counts included 429 at L.O. 10-11 Mar (RKe) and 500 over Howard, Centre, PA 25 Mar (B. Snyder). A Eurasian Wigeon was at Killbuck 22 Apr (RT), possibly the same bird as one earlier at nearby Funk Bottoms W.M.A., Wayne, OH 22-26 Mar (LY et ah, JMc, m.ob.); other males were at Ottawa 8 Apr QP) and at M.C.W.M.A. 4 Mar (B. Carl, D. Gochnauser). An excellent count of 2200 Northern Pintails was made at L.O. 17 Mar (RKe); a late pintail was at G.L. 29 May (GF). A Eurasian Teal was at John Heinz N.W.R., Philadelphia 8 Mar-5 Apr (T. Fellenbaum, m.ob.), and a Green- winged Teal X Eurasian Teal intergrade was at C.F 19-21 Apr (BS). Waterfowl concentrations in the Scioto R. valley were notable, e.g., 4000 Mallards, 400 Northern Pintails, 500 American Wigeons, and 1200 Ring-necked Ducks at Deer Creek S.R, Pickaway, OH 6 Mar (RR). The 570 Ring-necked Ducks at Green Bottom 10 Mar (MG, DP) were noteworthy, as were up to 1580 at Big Island W.M.A., Marion, OH 1 Apr (VF), where accompanied by 480 Red- heads and 715 Lesser Scaup. The 476 Redheads and 40 Greater Scaup at East Fork L., Clennont 1 Mar (RF) were outstanding counts for sw. Ohio. In and around East Harbor S.R, Ottawa, OH 2 Apr, the scaup concentra- tion of 9800 included no fewer than 500 Greaters (VF). The species was re- ported on L. Erie throughout the season, with one late bird noted at Maumee Bay S.P, Lucas, OH 26 May (JMc). Aythya ducks lingered in Ohio, with 2 Lesser Scaup at Longbrakes 29 May (RC), a Redhead in Portage 26 May (GB), and a Canvasback in Tfiimbull, OH 15 May (CB), where accompanied by a Surf Scoter. A Canvasback at Green Bottom 22 May (GR) was record late for West Virginia. The return sea duck flight was average in the w, with just 32 Surf Scoters in Ohio led by 8-10 at C.FR. 16-17 Apr (RT, BW); in the e., sea duck re- ports abounded: throughout Pennsylvania, up to 30 Surf Scoters 5 Apr-2 May and more than 100+ White-winged Scoters 7 Mar-2 May were reported. Three White-winged Scoters across West Virginia included a coun- ty first for Jefferson 16 Apr (MO). Black Scoters numbered 2 in Beaver, PA 15 Mar (GM), one in Chester, PA 17 Apr (RCo), and one inland Ohio bird in Guernsey 24 Mar (ES). A fall- out of ducks at B.E.S.E 15 Apr in- cluded 27 White-winged Scoters and 224 Long-tailed Ducks (AW). Else- where the same day, another 77 Long- tailed Ducks were on the S.R., Dauphin (DH, CR); one in Paulding, OH 6 May was unexpected (D, & M. Dunakin); and 2 were still at Canaan Valley N.W.R., Tucker, WV 16 Apr (K. Sturm). The 555 Buffleheads around Kelleys L, Erie, OH 23 Apr (TB) and 400 at Y.C.S.P 2 May (LC) were in- dicative of the late season. Hooded Merganser X Common Goldeneye hybrids continue with- in the Region. One was at Lorain Harbor, Lo- rain 17 Mar (JP) and another 15 Mar at P.l.S.E (K. Goodblood, J. Stanley). Lingering Com- mon Goldeneyes included 2 at C.F 15 May (BS) and 2 at Longbrakes 18 May (RC). Roughly 15,000-20,000 Red-breasted Mer- gansers were at RI.S.P in early Apr QM). Po- tentially breeding, a pair of Ruddy Ducks was present at Longbrakes 29 May (RC). Four Red-throated Loons were reported across Ohio 31 Mar-15 Apr OF RTh et ah), while 12 were reported in Pennsylvania 2 Mar-15 May. An average Regional flight saw a maximum Common Loon concentration in Pennsylvania of 115 on Ambridge Res., Beaver 16 Apr (MV, GM). Vying for Regional high- light of the season was the remarkable ad. Yel- low-billed Loon on the S.R. near Harrisburg, Cumberland/Dauphin, PA 4-7 May (ph. CR, ph. JH, vt. RW, m.ob.) for a first state record. The bird was observed feeding mainly on crayfish. Ohio Eared Grebes were in Highland, OH 10 Mar QMn et al.), at Killbuck 18 Mar (C. Fol- loway et ah), at Conneaut 14 Apr (CH), and in Huron, OH 22 Apr (TK), while up to 2 were in Lake, OH 15-17 Apr OF JT). Four Eared Grebes in Pennsylvania included singles in Dauphin 21-28 Mar (TJ, D. Yeany, m.ob.), York 15 Mar (MWe), Delaware 23 Mar (AG), and Luzerne 3 May Q- DeBalko). Few Red-necked Grebes were noted in Ohio, while 70+ Red- necked Grebes were reported throughout Pennsylvania 1 Mar-5 May, including a high count of 17 at L.O. 15 Apr (KL). That day also saw a fallout of 12 Red-neckeds and 188 Horned Grebes at B.E.S.P. (AW). Locally inter- esting were Red-necked Grebes in Jefferson, WV 16 Apr (MO), and Trumbull, OH 22 Apr 0- Lucas). A Horned Grebe at S.L. 28-29 May (RC, J. McNamara, AG) was late. Three Amer- ican White Pelicans were at B.C.S.R 21-25 Mar (CT et ah), with one until 21 Apr (RA). Oth- ers were at Delaware W.M.A., Delaware, OH 30 Mar-1 Apr Q- Burtt et al.) and Magee 4 May (E. Bruder). Two were at Pymatuning L., Crawford, PA 1-5 May (1. Frey, m.ob.), and an- other was on S.R., Dauphin, PA 28-29 May (fide DH). A Least Bittern arrived at Spring Valley 3 Apr OHg). American Bitterns were reported from Wayne, OH 25 Mar (m.ob.) and Berks, Detected at West Fairview Boat Launch, Dauphin/Cumberland County, Pennsylvania 25 March 2007, this Sora was earlier than most Soras arriv- ing in the state in spring. Photograph by Cameron Butt. 438 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS EASTERN HIGHLANDS & UPPER OHIO RIVER VALLEY Black-necked Stilt is a casual spring visitor to Pennsylvania. This one at Fogelsville, Lehigh County 13-21 (here 18) May 2007 marked a first county record. Photograph by Geoff Malosh. PA 25 Mar (MW), with 2 following at Pickerington Ponds, Fairfield, OH 28 Mar 0- Faulkner). The 12 Snowy Egrets on P.M.C. in Bucks, PA 12 May made an excellent count (fide AM). Spring Little Blue Herons along the Ohio R. drainage are unexpected. This season saw singles at Indian Creek W.A., Brown, OH 30 Apr-5 May (RF, J. Stenger), in Hamilton, OH 25 Apr-7 May (J. Nicodemus, J. Williams), with one up the Little Mia- mi R. tributary at Spring Valley 2-22 Apr (C. Schooley, JHb, LG) and adja- cent C.C.S.P. 1-6 Apr (FF) and w. to H.W.S.P 23 May (DR et al). This was coincident with one at Shady Waters in Ca- bell, WV 3 Apr (WA) for that state’s earliest spring record, and another appeared at Chest- nut Ridge Regional Park, Preston/Monongalia, WV 12 May (L. Schwab et al). Little Blue Herons in Pennsylvania included singles in Centre, PA 26-28 May (DG, GG), Bucks 4 May (M. DeBonis), L.O. 8 May (S. Schmoyer), and York 3 May (L. Carpenter, D. Cleary). Excep- tional away from L. Erie, a Tricolored Heron was present at Acton L., Preble, OH 21 Apr (BSs et al). More typical was one at Pipe Creek W.A., Erie, OH 24 May (G. Leidy). Sin- gle Cattle Egrets were in Bucks, PA 28 Apr (DF) and 16 May (R. Smith) and another in Northampton, PA 25-26 Apr (RW). A Yellow- crowned Night-Heron in a Lake, OH yard 8 May was unexpected QP)- The Columbus, OH breeding site was occupied from 25 Mar-i- (fide BWh), and the species was an early ar- rival in Bucks, PA 31 Mar (S. Charkes). Thirteen Glossy Ibis recorded among six Pennsylvania counties 7 Apr-20 May (m.ob.) were led by 6 in Chester 20 May (A. Leidig). Four Glossy Ibis at Metzger 26 Apr at- tained celebrity status, with their numbers growing to 7 by 12 May (VF S. Durris, m.ob.). Singles were at Sandy Ridge, Lorain, OH 15 May (C. Pierce et a!.). Spring Valley 18-20 May (FF, LG), and Prairie Oaks, Franklin, OH 14 May (L. & M. Dudzinsky). Three more were in Wayne, OH 11-12 May (LH, LY, S. Weaver, G. Hochstetler), with a White-faced Ibis joining them on the 11th. Another White-faced Ibis joined the lone re- maining Magee Glossy Ibis 29 May (KK). West Virginia shared in the Ple- gadis bounty, with a Glossy appearing at Green Bottom 6-8 May (MG, WA, P Thorn). VULTURES THROUGH TERNS Black Vultures ventured n. to L. Erie 1 Apr in Lake, OH QP) and 26 Mar in Erie, PA (2 birds; JM); a flock of 100 was notable in Montgomery, PA 2 May (R. Grubb). Four Mississippi Kites in Pennsylvania appeared in Berks 29 Apr (K. Grim) and 12 May (RK, P. Saenger), Lehigh 15 May (fide DD), and Lancaster 28 May (M. Lom- bard, J. Yoder). Re-introduced breeding Os- preys were back by 21 Mar in Wood, WV QE). A substantial flight of migrants through Ohio involved 20 over Holmes, OH 26 Apr (D. Kline), with flights at Conneaut of 31 on the 27th and 22 on the 23rd of Apr, respectively (BG et al, LH, ES el al). The latter hawkwatch produced a remarkable flight of 578 Sharp- shinned Hawks, 2323 Broad-winged Hawks, and an astonishing 2 Swainson’s Hawks (ES et al.). The flight of the 27th also produced 56 Northern Harriers and 863 Broad-winged Hawks. Single Ohio Golden Eagles were in Ma- honing 12 Apr (CH), in Wayrre 21 Apr (TK), in Wyandot 16 Apr QK), and passing through Ross 15 Apr (D. Hess). Two were still in the Canaan Valley, Tucker, WV 9 Apr (M. Crockette); breeding is likely in nearby Highland, VA, so observers should watch for signs of breeding activity in West Virginia as well. The final tally of Golden Eagles at Tussey Mt. Hawkwatch, Huntingdon/Centre, PA was 152 (A. Haimon). Peregrine Falcons nested successfully in Read- ing, a first for Berks, PA (B. Uhrich). A Yellow Rail was discovered in an over- grown field near Messiah College, Curnherlatrd 15 Mar (CR, A. Stuckert, J. Derr). Pending review, it would rep- resent the earliest spring arrival for Pennsylvania. Single Black Rails were in Bucks 29 Apr-5 May (Dp m.ob.) and Westrnorelarrd 12 May Q- Pember- ton, T. Pegnato). King Rails garnered little mention with but one noted at Magee 5-16 May (AB,JK) and just 2 at Springville Marsh State Nature Pre- serve, Serreca, OH 5 May (TB). Early Soras reached Curnberlatrd, PA 24-31 Mar (L. Usselman et al.) and Spring Valley 2 Apr (M. Boyd). Of local in- terest were 2 Sandhill Cranes over Preston, WV 26 Mar (G. Felton) and 2 in Seneca, OH 5 May (TB). Notable were 9 in Clinton, PA 20 Apr (W. Laubscher) and 19 in Lawrence, PA 17 Mar (PH et al.). One was photographed from a plane at 2100 m in Mif- flin, PA 29 Apr (K. Streidieck). The passage of 280 birds over sw. Ohio 1 Mar-1 Apr (N. Keller, m.ob.) was above average. A powerful coastal sou’easter brought an American Oystercatcher to L.N. 19 Apr (R. Fergus, ph. JHo, vt. RW, m.ob.); it represents the 5th record for Pennsylvania. Ohio Piping Plovers included one at Metzger 28-29 Apr (ph. S. Durris et al., EK et al.), and up to 2 at Headlands 1-2 May (ph. JT, RH,J. McConnor, ph. J. Brumfield). A concentration of 435 Semipalmated Plovers at Metzger 10 May (PR) made the high spring record for Ohio. The flight of American Golden-Plovers through w. Ohio was protracted, as 1100 were within the Big Island-Killdeer Plains I.B.A., Wyandot/Marion, OH 27 Apr (TS), where 1000 had arrived by 1 Apr (VP). Elsewhere, 700 were in Wyarrdot 30 Mar (RC) and 400 in Auglaize 3 Apr (TS). A Black-necked Stilt at Fogelsville, PA 13-21 May was a first for Lehigh (DWe, ph. JH, vt. RW); another was at H.W.S.P. 18-21 Apr (B. Heck, m.ob.), while 2 ap- peared at M.W.W. 25 May (FF, N. Cade). Three American Avocets were at Y.C.S.P. 15 May (MH). Ohio avocet flocks were limited to a group of 4 at Metzger 29 Apr (EK et al.). Willets continue to show very well in Ohio, with flocks of 26 at Magee 26 Apr (D. Friedman), 15 at M.W.W. 16 May (FF), 10 at Columbia Station, Lo- rain, OH 2 May (R. Harlan), 10 at Metzger 29 Apr (EK et al.), and 9 at Delaware S.P, Delaware, OH 5 May 0- Stenger). This passage was also recorded in West Virginia — 4 birds at R.C.B. 27 Apr (WA) and one in Put- nam 29 Apr (K. Kazmierski). Always rare in spring, a Stilt Sandpiper in Wood, WV 16 May Oregon Junto, reported far more often than documented in Pennsylvania, was well photographed in East Allen Township, Northampton County on 18 March 2007. Photograph by Jiirr Figlar. VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 439 EASTERN HIGHLANDS & UPPER OHIO RIVER VALLEY (JE, J. Tharp II) was a county first. The only other reports came from Wayne, OH 12 May (ES) and Clinton, OH 21 May (LG). Whim- brels bypassed Ohio, with just one flock of 3 noted at Maumee Bay S.P., Lucas, OH 26 May (JMc). One at M.W.W. 23 May (PW) was ex- ceptional for sw. Ohio. In Pennsylvania, sin- gles were at Little Blue L., Beaver 27 May (MV), PI.S.P 21 May (E. Hall), Dauphin 29 May (TJ), while 9 were overhead in Washing- ton 28 May (A. Berchin). A Spotted Sandpiper 1 Apr in Wyandot, OH (RC) was exceptionally early. The average arrival of Tringa saw a Less- er Yellowlegs in Preble, OH by 9 Mar (CT) and a Greater in Summers, WV 13 Mar (J'SrJP). Calidris migration was generally normal, but a Least Sandpiper at C.C.S.P. 30 Mar-1 Apr (RA, FF) was coincident with an early wave of Pectoral Sandpipers, in- cluding 450 in Hardin (RC), 390 in Mar- ion (VF), and 123 in Ottawa (TB) on the 30th. The Least Sandpiper that wintered in Cumberland, PA continued through 9 Mar (CR, V. Gauthier, m.ob.). A concen- tration of 500 Least Sandpipers was tal- lied at PW.T. 16 May (DF). The R.C.B. at- tracted 250 Least, 50 Semipalmated, and 10 White-rumped Sandpipers 16 May (WA). In the West Virginia panhandle, a 3rd record of White-mmped Sandpiper and 44 Least Sandpipers were notable 16 & 18 May in Jefferson (MO). A Western Sandpiper was at Orwell Marsh, Ashtabu- la, OH 31 May (CH). Dunlin topped out at 3050 at Metzger 10 May (PR). Harkening back to a bygone day, 18 Red Knots set down at Metzger 16 May (ES); 5 were there 28 May (KK). A Red Knot at R.C.B. 14-15 May (WA, ph. MO, DB, m.ob.) was a state first, after three near-misses previously on the Ohio side of the Ohio R. Single Red-necked Phalaropes were at Longbrakes 16-19 May (AB, RC), at R.C.B. 16 May (WA), and S.L. 26 May (L. Lewis, NP). By the end of the period, 3 Wil- son’s Phalaropes had returned to a recent breeding site in Hardin, OH (RC). A migrant was in Lebanon, PA 19 May QH) A Little Gull was a flyby in Lake, OH 31 Mar (JP). Outstanding were 9 along the S.R. in Dctuphin 25 Mar (TJ, DH, S. Hayes) and 6 on the S.R. in Lancaster/York 31 Mar OH). A Black-headed Gull along the S.R. in Dauphin, PA 30-31 Mar (CR) furnished a 3rd county record. An amazing movement of 75,000 Bonaparte’s Gulls past PI.S.P 5 Apr QM) may well establish a record count for L. Erie. Laughing Gulls were widespread in Ohio, ar- riving at Hoover 29 Apr (K. Davies), with 2 there 5 May (BWh). Two more were at B.C.S.P the same day (D. Overacker). These birds were preceded by one at H.W.S.P. 27 Apr (DR), and 2 appeared at C.C.S.P. 9 May (A. Oliver), with one there 24 May (LG). Near L. Erie, individuals were at Metzger 12-26 May (PG, A. Sewell, BSs), in Summit 21 May (GB), and in Hancock 27 May (RC). An ad. Califor- nia Gull was closely studied at Green Pond, Northampton, PA 26 Mar, for a first county record (DD). Six Iceland Gulls and 5 Glau- cous Gulls were at PI.S.P 6-8 Apr OM), and 7 Icelands were at PW.T. 14 Apr, with one lin- gering through 12 May (DF). Another re- mained at Conneaut 16 May (CH) in the company of 2 Lesser Black-backed Gulls. A late Glaucous was in Northampton, PA 29 Apr (DD). A total of 456 Lesser Black-backed Gulls between two sites in Bucks, PA 17 Mar had the majority at L.N. (B. Etter). At Lorain Harbor, Lorain, OH 17 Mar, there were 5 Less- er Black-backed Gulls, 3 Glaucous Gulls, and 2 apparent Great Black-backed Gull x Herring Gull hybrids QP)- The Central Basin in Cuya- hoga and Lake, OH hosted up to 9 Lesser Black-backed Gulls in early Apr (G. Cud- worth, m.ob.). The only inland Ohio reports came from C.F.R. 17 Apr (RT) and Columbiana 22 Mar (D. Koch). The 46 Forster’s Terns at Y.C.S.P 2 May (LC) and 32 at Mosquito L., Trumbull, OH 15 May were good spring counts (CB). Ohio Caspian Terns appeared at Hoover 28 Mar (G. Stauffer) and in Hamilton, OH 29 Mar (B. Hull). DOVES THROUGH FINCHES Eurasian Collared-Doves continued at Coatesville, Chester, PA 28 Mar, although breeding has not yet been confirmed (LL), and another was at Campbeltown, Lebanon, PA 14 Apr (NP). A White-winged Dove was in Delaware, OH 28 Apr (JHg, D. Collopy, ph. TS). A Barn Owl was reported from Wetzel, WV 2 May (A. Sabatine), where the species’ status is unclear. The total of 19 Barn Owls on PM.C. in Lycoming, Juniata, and Cumberland was encouraging (D. Ferry, C. Kauffman, CR). Whip-poor-wills arriving 2 Apr in Scioto (Z. Allen) and Meigs, OH (T. Morman) were preceded by one in Indiana, PA 27 Mar (K. Dudt, Jide MH). A Chuck-wilTs-widow in But- ler, OH 3 May (DR) was unexpected. Yellow- billed Cuckoos arrived 24 Apr in Clermont, OH (RF) and Wood, WV (J. Benedetti). A Scissor-tailed Flycatcher was at Hunt- ington Reservation, Cuyahoga, OH 23 Apr (L. Richardson), part of a massive wave of mi- grants into the L. Erie region that day. A Bell’s Vireo was back on the Ohio State University campus 10 May (A. Betuel). A pair of Blue- headed Vireos engaged in pre-copulatory dis- play at Hanging Rock, Lawrence, OH 30 Mar (VF) were in suitable habitat for nesting. A Loggerhead Shrike was mist- netted 5 May at Navarre Marsh, Ottawa, OH (ph. B.S.B.O.); the species is rare and declining throughout the Region, and this is only the 4th record of the past 10 years within Ohio’s L. Erie Basin. One re- ported from Adams, OH 19-27 Mar was at a potential breeding site (P Whan). A West Virginia report came from Jefferson 14 Mar (MO); breeding within that state in 2006 was limited to Hardy (fide W.V.D.N.R.), while Grant and Greenbriar may be the only other source of the species in the Region. One found during the winter near Gettysburg, Adams, PA continued through 5 Mar (m.ob.). A Common Raven at PI.S.P. 26 Mar added to a spate of recent records for the L. Erie shore OM). Purple Martins were widely noted across Ohio and West Virginia 25 Mar, with one n. to L. Erie 0?)- Two Northern Rough-winged Swallows had arrived in Dauphin, PA by 19 Mar (TJ). Singles in Clermont, OH 22 Mar (D. Morse, Jr.) and in Guernsey, OH 24 Mar (ES) were exceptional. The latter was accompanied by a Barn Swallow; another early Barn Swal- low was at M.W.W. the day before (S. Pe- likan). Two Cliff Swallows 26-29 Mar in Portage, OH (GB, A. Bartley) predated all oth- ers by two weeks. A Black-capped Chickadee was well s. of normal range 7 Apr in Hamilton, OH (R. Canterbury). A singing male Golden- crowned Kinglet at Mohican S.E, Ashland, OH 12 May was in potential breeding habitat (ES). So many Ruby-crowned Kinglets win- tered across Ohio that detecting early mi- grants is problematic. Difficult examples in- clude singles in Hamilton 22 Mar (K. Westen- dorO and in Licking 25 Mar (M. Bowman), al- though 6 in Seneca 31 Mar (TB) were new ar- rivals. A host of Gray Catbird reports from late Mar in Ohio were not accompanied by details, but one was present in Franklin 30 This Lazuli Bunting found by George Franchois on 4 (here 8) March 2007 at Red Hill, Montgomery County was the third record for Pennsylvania and seen by many through 10 April. Photograph by Howard B. Eskin. 440 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS EASTERN HIGHLANDS & UPPER OHIO RIVER VALLEY Mar (VF). The Townsend’s Solitaire present in Erie, PA during the winter was seen through 25 Mar (M. Anderson, m.ob.). Two Lawrence’s Warblers were found in Cumberland, PA 11-16 May (RK, CR, AMa). The Franklin, OH wintering Orange-crowned Warbler made a last appearance 8 Mar (ph. N. Nye). Single Black-and-white Warblers were at Shawnee 2 Apr (RR) and in Summers, WV 24 Mar Q&JP)- A record-early Prothonotary Warbler 29 Mar in Montgomery, OH (R. Williams) was coincident with the summer- like warmth of that week. Northern Parulas followed 2 Apr, both in Cincinnati (M. Bo- gosian) and Columbus, OH (S. Landes). Up to 13 Yellow- throated Warblers in Lawrence and one in Gallia, OH 30 Mar (VF) were well ahead of schedule, and one at Prince Gallitzin S.E, Cambria, PA 14 Apr (R. Bower) provided a first county record. A Black- throated Green Warbler had reached the L. Erie shore in Lake, OH by 3 Apr QP)- An early Blackpoll Warbler was in Cumberland, PA 26 Apr (RK). One remained in Columbus, OH 2Jun (RTh), while 2 lingered in Wetzel, WV 31 May (W. Jarrell). An early Palm Warbler was in Erie, PA 26 Mar (K. Anderson), and a Yellow Palm was in Lorain, OH 31 Mar (T. Colborn). A Pine Warbler wintering in Warren, OH re- mained through 12 Apr (ph. L. Greene). A well-studied Connecticut Warbler at Green Bottom 29 Apr (MG, WA) represented one of very few Apr records in the Region. A singing Swainson’s Warbler was present in North Payette Twp., Allegheny, PA 12 May+ (E & C. McCullough, ME, ph. GM, DW). Louisiana Waterthrushes were in Summers and Jefferson, WV 26 Mar (J&JP, MO), after appearing 24 Mar in Clermont, OH (L. Romine) and Lawrence, PA Q. Mason). Extralimital Sum- mer Tanagers in Pennsylvania included sin- gles in Lancaster 1 May (T. Amico), Dauphin 9-10 May (DH, A. Stuckert), and Bucks 14 May (B. Graham). A male Spotted Towhee was rare in Hol- land, Lucas, OH 28 Peb-4 Apr (ph. J. Dixon, m.ob.). One or more Clay-colored Sparrows were reported from MetzgerMagee/Ottawa 1- 12 May (KK, BW, PR, m.ob.), one was at Con- neaut 20 May (CH), and 5 were recorded in Pennsylvania 5-15 May (m.ob.). The Lark Sparrow wintering in Bucks, PA last appeared 1 May (R. & V Smith), and several returned to Oakes Quarry Park, Greene, OH 12-20 May (RA, D. Snuffer), where the species summered in 2006. A mid-Mar snowstorm in Pennsylva- nia drew many Fox Sparrows to feeders and roadsides, where 74 were reported in Berks 17 Mar (fide RKe) and 75 were counted by one observer without leaving his car in Dauphin/ Lebanon that same day (fide AH). A Henslow’s Sparrow on territory at The Wilds, Musk- ingum, OH 26 Mar was extraordinarily early 0- Larson). A Harris’s Sparrow was found in Cincinnati 28-29 Apr (PW, m.ob.). The win- tering bird in Holmes, OH was present through early May (Eli D. Miller, m.ob.). A Gambel’s White-crowned Sparrow was e. to El.S.R 16 May OM)- A male Oregon Junco 7 May at Headlands established a new late date for Ohio (ph. JT, C. Takacs, m.ob.), while farther e. along L. Erie’s shoreline, one at EI.S.E 18 May QM. MW) was extraordinary. Another was at Moraine S.E, Butler, PA 17 Mar (PH, ME, J. Valimont), while the wintering Northampton, PA bird was nicely documented 18 Mar (ph. J. Figlar). A Lincoln’s Sparrow 8 Apr in Randolph, WV (CRr) was early. A Rose-breasted Grosbeak at Calamus Swamp, Pickaway, OH 3 Mar (W. Grody) like- ly wintered locally, so too a female Indigo Bunting at a feeder near Quarryville, Lancast- er, PA 18 Mar (DWe). A male Lazuli Bunting was present in Red Hill, Montgomery, PA 4 Mar-10 Apr (GF, ph. H. Eskin, vt. RW), rep- resenting a 3rd state record. A male Painting Bunting was in Meshoppen, Wyoming, PA 6 May 0- Skinner). Dickcissel reports in Penn- sylvania included 2 in Allegheny 22 May (DW, ME), one in Cumberland 12 Mar (M. & D. Snell) and 12 May (Dave Grove), and one in Berks 1 Mar-1 May (D. Kendall). Yellow- headed Blackbirds were widespread in Ohio, with 2 at Springville Marsh S.N.P., Seneca 14 Apr (TB), one in Highland 29 Apr (J. Moore), another in Cuyahoga 21 Apr (fide VE), while one had returned to Magee 30 Mar (TB). In Pennsylvania, individuals were in Delaware 23 Mar-8 Apr (AG, m.ob.) and Northampton, PA 26 Apr (K. Sieminski). A Brewer’s Black- bird was in Allegheny, PA 26 Mar (P. & S. Lynch). Three were reported from Indian Creek W.M.A., Brown, OH 18 Mar (B. Stan- ley). Four wintering Baltimore Orioles sur- vived through early Apr in Bucks and Chester, PA (G. Carmichael, S. Meyers, R. Hickman, D. Kruel), and the wintering Scott’s Oriole in Cumberland, PA was last seen 8 Apr (K. At- wood et al.). A Western Meadowlark was found in Wood, OH 15 Apr (PG). The best count of Pine Siskin was 20 in In- diana, PA 4 Mar (H. Pollock, fide MH). Evening Grosbeak reports included 8-10 near Stahlstown, Westmoreland, PA 25 Mar (L. Hess) and 6 in Schuylkill Haven, Schuykill, PA (fide A. Koch). Single male Evening Gros- beaks were unexpected feeder visitors in Holmes, OH 21 May (fide BG) and Wood, WV 12 May (T. McPherson). Sporadic Common Redpolls appeared in Randolph, WV 19 Mar (CRr), Beaver, PA 10 Mar (B. Walbeck), and Bucks, PA 9 Mar (2 birds; J. Mertz). Away from the Highlands, one was driven by wintry weather to a Columbus, OH feeder 12-16 Apr (ph. B. Master), exceptional for both date and location. Addenda: A Red-naped Sapsucker was in Holmes, OH 4-10 Apr 2006 (ph. CT, m.ob.) for a first state record. A White-throated Swift was in Lucas, OH 2 Apr 2006 (E. Pierce, j. Johnson, R. Reyda, D. Vogus) for a first state record. A Eurasian Collared-Dove was in Licking, OH 15 Apr-24 May 2006 (N. Surrat). Contributors and subregional editors (in boldface): OHIO: Aaron Boone (AB), Rick Asamoto (RA), Tom Bartlett (TB), Carole Babyak (CB), Gregory Bennett (GB), Rick Counts (RC), Victor Fazio (VF), Robert Foppe (RF), Frank Frick, Larry Gara (LG), Paul Gardner (PG), Bruce Glick (BG),John Habig QHg), Ray Hannikman (RH), Levi Hochstetler (LH), Craig Holt (CH), Kenn Kaufman (KK), Ned Keller, Ethan Kistler (EK),John Kuenzli QK), Jim McCormac OMc), Jim McMahon QMn), John Pogacnik 0P)i Paul Podewald (PR), Robert Royse (RR), David Russell (DR), Ed Schlabach (ES), Troy Shiveley (TS), Jerry Talkington OT), Tom Kemp (TK), Brad Sparks (BSs), Roger Troutman (RT), Rob Thorn (RTh), Casey Tucker (CT), Ben Warner (BW), Bill Whan (BWh), Paul Wharton (PW), Leroy Yoder (LY). PENNSYLVANIA: Lee Carnahan (LC), Robert Cook (RCo), Kevin F. Crilley (KFC), Dave DeReamus (DD-Eastern PA Bird- line), Devich Earbotnik (DF), Mike Fi- alkovich (MF), George Franchois (GF), Al Guarente (AG), Deb Grove (DG), Greg Grove (GG), Jason Horn OHo), Jonathan Heller QH), Paul Hess (PH), Margaret Higbee (MH), Armas Hill (AH; Philadelphia Birdline), Deuane Hoffman (DH), Tom Johnson (TJ), Rudy Keller (RKe), Ramsay Khoury (RK), Robert C. Leberman (RCL), Ken Lebo (KL), Larry Lewis (LL), Geoff Malosh (GM), An- drew Markel (AMa), Mark McConaughy (MM-Central PA Birdline), Jerry McWilliams QM), August Mirabella (AM), Nick Pulcinel- la (NP), Cameron Rutt (CR), Bob Schutsky (BS), Mark Vass (MV), Drew Weber (DWe), Mike Weible (MWe), Andy Wilson (AW), Dave Wilton (DW), Rick Wiltraut (RW), Matt Wlasniewski (MW). WEST VIRGINIA: Wen- dell Argabrite (WA), Jeanette Esker 0E)> Mike Griffith (MG), Matt Orsie (MO), David Patick (DP), Jim & Judy Phillips O&JP). G^ry Rankin (GR), Casey Rucker (CRr). (© Victor W. Fazio, III, 18722 Newell Street Shaker Heights, Ohio 44122, (bcvireo@sbcglobal.net) Rick Wiltraut, P. 0. Box 294 Saylorsburg, Pennsylvania 18353, (rwiltraut@state.pa.us) VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 441 Illinois & Indiana INDIANA LAKEFRONT: James D. Hengeveld Keith A. McMullen Geoffrey A. Williamson The spring season was generally warm and dry. March was 7° F warmer than average, and May was 5“ F warmer than average, making this one of the five warmest spring periods since 1895. Despite the early warm temperatures, a killing frost hit most of the Region 4 April, bringing cold temperatures and strong northerly winds that halted migration for at least 10 days. May was particularly dry across the Region, many areas receiving less than a third of normal rainfall levels. Seventeen-year periodical cicadas emerged in northwestern Indiana and the Chicago region, providing several bird species an abundant food supply. There were several uncommon and rare species in the Region this spring, including King Eider, Western Grebe, Tricolored Heron, Reddish Egret, Swallow-tailed Kite, Prairie Falcon, Yellow and Black Rails, Purple Gallinule, Snowy Plover, Curlew Sandpiper, Red-necked Stint, Black-headed Gull, Townsends Warbler, and Lazuli Bunting. Abbreviations: Bellrose Reserve (Frank Bell- rose Waterfowl Reserve, Pulaski, IL); Carl. L. (Carlyle L., IL); Dunes (Dunes S.P., Porter, IN); LWA. (Lish and Wildlife Area); Goose Pond (Goose Pond P.W.A., Greene, IN); Horseshoe L. (Madison, IL); Jax. P. Qackson Park, Chicago); Montrose (Montrose Pt., Lin- coln Park, Chicago); Wakarusa (Wakarusa Wastewater Treatment Lacility, Elkhart, IN). WATERFOWL THROUGH GALLIFORMS Indiana’s only report of Ross’s Goose consist- ed of a single at Kankakee LWA. 12 & 17 Mar (KJB, JKC, JJM et al.). A lingering Snow Goose in Carroll, IL 19 May (TAM) and 3 in Fulton, IL 17 May (LLH) were expected. Mute Swans were widespread and seen in good numbers in Illinois, with 62 at Spring L., Tazewell 20 May (KAM) and 61 at Wolf L. 3 Mar (WJM). After their weak showing in win- ter, all dabbling ducks except Wood Duck and Blue-winged Teal provided peak counts that were below normal in Illinois. Especially no- ticeable was the reduced presence of Ameri- can Wigeon, with no counts greater than the 80 tallied at Santa Le Bottoms, Clinton, IL 8 Mar (DMK) and at Carl. L. 25 Mar (DMK). Lor the 2nd consecutive spring, a male Cin- namon Teal was recorded in Indiana, this one a one-day wonder at Goose Pond 24 Apr (LWS). In contrast to the dabblers, bay ducks were noted in significant concentrations fol- lowing a good winter season. Representative high counts from Illinois included 24,000 Canvasbacks and an outstanding 24,000 Less- er Scaup 7 Mar along the Mississippi R. in Ha}Kock (AGD), 465 Redheads at Clear L., Mason 22 Mar (R&SB), and 7231 Ring- necked Ducks at L. Chautauqua N.W.R. 16 Mar (R&SB). Reports of Harlequin Ducks included a male and female 20 Mar in Chicago (GAW), a male in Wilmette, IL 13 Mar QP), and 2 males on the Mississippi R. in Rock Island 10 Peb-23 Mar (SML et al.) that shuttled between Illinois and Iowa. Illinois reported 2 Surf, 4 White-winged, and 2 Black Scoters, with a late Surf Scot- er at Lyerla L., Union (KAM) 26-28 Apr. Indiana reported 9 Surf Scoters, including 7 at Eagle Creek Park 22 Mar (LP, DW). Representing a good flight of White-winged Scot- ers were 2 on Brookville Res. 8 & 11 Mar (WHB) and an inland bird on L. Monroe 10- 27 Mar QD, DRW MC); a maximum of 3 was reported at the lakefront at Dunes 18 Mar (BJG). Indiana’s first spring record of King Eider (p.a.) occurred at Dunes 10 Mar when an imm. male flew by in the company of a number of Aythya species (KJB, JKC, JJM et al). A nice total of 200 Buf- fleheads and an exceptional 3000 Common Goldeneyes were counted 7 Mar on the Mis- sissippi R. in Hancock (AGD). A female Com- mon Goldeneye observed away from L. Michigan in Chicago 25 May (ph. SSp) was very late. Low winter numbers of Common Mergansers continued into spring, the highest total consisting of 570 in Gnindy, IL 10 Mar (DLS); the latest individual was at L. Monroe 8 May (DRW). The 28 Ring-necked Pheasants 5 May in Pecatonica (DTW) and the 63 Greater Prairie-Chickens 12 Mar at Prairie Ridge State Natural Area (RES) provided noteworthy high counts. Reported Ruffed Grouse included a drumming male 9 May (MC) and a female with 8 young 15 May in Morgan-Monroe S.L QD). LOONS THROUGH IBIS Indiana reported 4 inland Red-throated Loons, while at Dunes, counts of 10 and 4 were made 18 Mar (BJG) and 28 Apr OJM). respectively. In Illinois, they lingered late, with an imm. at Johnson Sauk Trail S.R 10-12 May (ALS, m.ob.) and 2 at Illinois Beach S.P. 5 May (EWW et al.). The high Common Loon tally for the season consisted of 93 birds at L. Monroe 31 Mar (DRW). A remarkable 183 Horned Grebes was tallied 20 Apr at Illi- nois Beach S.P. (CP). Red-necked and Eared Grebes were in short supply, with reports of 4 and 5, respectively. A Western Grebe was a nice find at Carl. L. 5 May (RSH, DMK, KAM). The 7000 American White Pelicans along the Mississippi R. in Jersey 10 Mar (GAW) provided a record-high spring count for Illinois. Numbers of American Bitterns reported were encouraging, bolstered largely by a tally of 10 birds at Goose Pond 5 May (LWS). Good numbers of Least Bitterns were report- ed across the Region, with maximum counts of 5 at Mermet L., Massac, IL 5 May (LKB) and 4 at Spring L., Carroll, IL 20 May (DTW, BCW). A Great Egret 14 Mar at L. Renwick (SM) was early, and the 245 at Baker’s L. in nw. Cook, IL 5 May (GAW) formed a notable concentration. The 25 Snowy Egrets in Mon- roe, IL 27 May (DMK) was also a nice total. A Tricolored Heron flying past Montrose 27 May (tGAW) was among the latest of Illinois’s spring records for this species (p.a.). Illinois’s 3rd Reddish Egret, discovered at the Chicago Botanic Gardens, Cook 19-23 May (TE, This Purple Gallinule was photographed in a Boone County, Indiana backyard on 26 April 2007. Photograph by John Cassady. 442 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS ILLINOIS & INDIANA Illinois's third Reddish Egret was found 19 (here 20) May 2007 at the Chicago Botanic Gardens, Cook County, where it remained until 23 May. It then moved northward, appearing late on 23 May at the Great Lakes Naval Training Cen- ter, Lake County, and then to Waukegan Beach, where it stayed 24-25 May. Photograph by Carolyn Fields. m.ob.), posed for many photographs before wandering northward into Lake, where it vis- ited Great Lakes Naval Training Center 23 May (BS) and Waukegan 24-25 May QOS et al). A Green Heron 24 Mar in Shelby, IL (KF) was rather early. An exceptional count of 14 Yellow-crowned Night-Herons was made 24 Apr in Madison, IL (FRH). It was a banner spring for Glossy Ibis, with 9 or more reported in Illinois and 4 in Indi- ana. Sightings in Lenzberg, St. Clair, IL peaked with 4 there 18 May (TJD). Others in- cluded 2 at Carl. L. 28 Apr (LN, jide DMK) and singles near Farina, IL 16 May (TJWW et ah), at Fairmont City, IL 26-29 May (P&BJ, m.ob.), and at Prairie Ridge State Natural Area 22 May (RES, SAS). A single Glossy Ibis was at Goose Pond 2 May (LWS), and 3 were at Cane Ridge W.M.A. 6 May (G&LB). A Black Vulture in Porter, IN 13 May (B&MB) represented only the 3rd lakefront record. KITES THROUGH SANDPIPERS A Swallow-tailed Kite was observed in Lake, IL 9 May (DWi), providing the 5th state record (p.a.). Extralimital Mississippi Kites included imms. 10 May in Kankakee, IL OBH) and 14 May at the L. Decatur dredge ponds (MED), plus an ad. 23 May s. of Moke- na, Will, IL (ABH). Northern Harriers lin- gered through mid-May, with sightings 18 May in s. Ogle, IL (TAM) and 17 May in Lake, IL (KAM). Two imm. Northern Goshawks were reported: one 23 Mar-8 Apr at Prairie Ridge State Natural Area (RES, CLH et al.) and an- other 14 Mar at Goose Pond (DRW, DB). A Rough-legged Hawk tarried at Goose Pond 5 May (LWS). Among 9 Golden Eagles reported from Indiana was a tardy imm. in Columbia City 20 May OJM); 2 imms. in Lawrence 7 Mar (CLH) were the only ones in Illinois. A late Mer- lin was observed in Galena, IL 19 May QWW). Most unusual was a Prairie Falcon 16 May near Fari- na, Fayette (p.a., tJWW, TLE, SAS) that provided the latest spring record for Illinois; one that wintered at Hawthorn Mines, Sullivan, IN was last seen 4 Mar (DRW). An incredible 6 Yellow Rails were recorded 17-18 Apr at Karl Bartel Wildlife Sanctuary, Marion, IL (TAM, RES, TDF); 5 others were reported from Illinois, and a calling bird at Goose Pond 15-17 Apr (LWS et al.) provided Indi- ana’s sole report. It was another great spring for Black Rails, with 6 singles reported: 15 Apr in Fayette, IL (DMK), 29 Apr in Massac, IL (FKB), at Hardy L., IN 17 May 0DW,/ide JSC), 18 May at Illinois Beach S.P. (EWW), 25 May at Goose Pond (LWS), and 31 May at Muscatatuck N.W.R. (MM). A Purple Gallinule was found at Mermet L. 5 May (FKB), where the species has previously nested, and a very cooperative individual was found in a tiny wetland near Thorntown, Boone, IN 24 Apr (H&RS-C, BB, m.ob.), remaining there un- til 7 May. With only 11 prior Snowy Plover records for the Region, 3 in one season was remarkable. One was at the L. Decatur dredge ponds 30 Apr-2 May (MFD, ph. TAM), another was at Rend L. 28-29 May (ph., tDMK et al.), and the 3rd was found at L. Gibson 20-21 May (CEM, ph. G&LB, LP). Seven Piping Plovers were reported across the Region. A maximum count of 11 Black-necked Stilts was made 7 May at Goose Pond (LWS), while a group of 8 birds at East Cape Girardeau, Alexander 25 Apr (KAM) represented the high for Illinois. American Avocets were well represented in Illinois as well, with a high count of 14 at Montrose 27 Apr (OM). A large group of 58 Solitary Sandpipers was at Paradise L., Coles, IL 30 Apr (EWW). Carl. L. hosted 300 Greater and 1200 Lesser Yellowlegs 15 Apr (DMK), and 44 Willets were observed at the L. Decatur dredge ponds 30 Apr (MFD). Upland Sandpipers were in short supply across the Region. A rare inland Whimbrel at Goose Pond 30 Apr (LA) provided the season’s only record of the species (p.a.). Godwits arrived early and were plentiful. Among 26 Hudsonian God- wits seen in Illinois, one 12 Apr at Bellrose Reserve (KAM) and 14 at Carl. L. 15 Apr (DMK) provided record-early arrival dates. An early Marbled Godwit was at Carl. L. 25 Mar-1 Apr (DMK, TAM, KAM), while 5 at L. Monroe 1 1 Apr (DRW) were record early for Indiana. The largest group among 17 Mar- bled Godwits seen in Illinois was of 6 at Carl. L. 22 Apr (DMK). The report of 6 Red Knots 25 May in Waukegan, IL (EWW) was note- worthy, as this species is scarce in spring. A Western Sandpiper at Carl. L. 30 Mar-1 Apr (DMK, ph. TAM) was exceptionally early; another at Goose Pond 28 Apr (LWS, JC, J&SH et al.) provided Indiana’s hrst Apr record; and 12 at Carl. L. 26 May (DMK) tied the record spring high count from Illinois. A Least Sandpiper 19 Mar at Bellrose Reserve (KAM) provided Illinois’s 2nd earliest arrival date. The Region’s first Red-necked Stint (p.a.), molting into alternate plumage, was found 23 May at Wakarusa OAH, JK, LP, DS et al.) by a group searching for the Curlew Sandpiper found 22 May by Dan Stoltzfus during a routine survey. Just Indiana’s 2nd Curlew Sandpiper, the bird was in alternate plumage (ph. JKC) but unfortunately stayed This Snowy Plover, present 28 (here) and 29 May 2007 at Rend Lake, Illinois, was one of an amazing three different individuals seen in the Region this spring; prior to this season, the state had just eleven total records of the species. Photograph by Dan Kassebaum. VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 443 ILLINOIS & INDIANA A Curlew Sandpiper found by Dan Stoltzfus at Wakarusa Wastewater Treatment Facility in Elkhart County was a second for Indiana 22 May 2007. Photograph by John Cassady. for only one day. An unusually large spring assemblage of 26 Baird’s Sandpipers was not- ed 29 Apr at Carl. L. (DMK). Among a fine total of 21 Stilt Sandpipers was Indiana’s highest ever spring total, 11, which was recorded at Goose Pond 15 May (DRW). The 200 Wilson’s Snipe at Santa Fe Bottoms, Clinton, IL (DMK) 17 Mar made a notable count. A Wilson’s Phalarope 26 Mar-2 Apr at Bellrose Reserve (KAM) was exceptionally early; this species peaked with a nice tally of 12 at Big L., Brown, IL 28 Apr (TW). Two Red-necked Phalaropes were reported from Illinois and one from Indiana. GULLS THROUGH SAPSUCKERS An apparent Laughing Gull x Ring-billed Gull hybrid returned for the 4th consecutive year to Chicago 23 Apr (MLB, fide WJM). A Franklin’s Gull graced TNC Kankakee Sands 13 Mar QK, BKB), providing Indiana’s earliest spring record. The ad. Black-headed Gull at Montrose 23 Feb QWH, AH) was there al- most daily until 25 Mar (m.ob.). A late first- cycle Iceland Gull was at Illinois Beach S.P. 18 May (EWW). A Caspian Tern found 17 Mar at Wolf L., Hammond, IN (MT) and 2 Caspian Terns at Chicago’s L. Calumet 26 Mar (WJM) were record early, as was a Forster’s Tern at L. Monroe 25 Mar (MC). A large group of 725 Common Terns was seen 15 May at Winthrop Harbor, IL (EWW). White-winged Doves continued to show up with some regularity in Illinois. Individu- als were noted at Springfield 1-3 May (ph. VMK), at Montrose 30 Apr and 8 & 10 May (RDH; ph., tGAW et al.), and in Evanston 26 May (ph., tJlE et al). Among 6 Barn Owls re- ported in Illinois, one 23 Apr at Montrose (RDH, ph. KH et al.) was away from known nesting loca- tions. Seven Long-eared Owls were at Carl. L. (DMK) 17 Mar. A record- high spring count of 38 Short-eared Owls was tal- lied 3 & 7 Mar at Peabody R. King EWA., St. Clair, IL (TDM et al.). Northern Saw-whet Owls were not- ed 8 Mar at Carl. L. (DMK) and 2 Apr in Chicago OS, ph. EJT). A nice count of 65 Common Nighthawks was made 12 May at Horse- shoe L., Madison, IL (KAM, DMK), while 8 Chuck-will’s -widows heard in Greene-Sullivan S.E 10 May (LWS) furnished a fine count for Indiana. A Whip-poor-will at Feme Clyffe S.P., Johnson, IL 2 Apr was early (KAM), as were the 10 Chimney Swifts in Johnson, IL 26 Mar (KAM). A Ruby-throated Hummingbird 5-10 Apr in Massac, IL (FKB) was early, and 90 at Mode 8 May (KF) represented a record- high spring count for Illinois. A first-year fe- male Rufous Hummingbird first noted in Nov 2006 at Jim McLane’s feeder in Gallatin, IL re- mained until 13 Apr (CH, KAM). A female Yellow-bellied Sapsucker tarried in Indi- anapolis 7-18 May (LP). FLYCATCHERS THROUGH WAXWINGS An early Olive-sided Flycatcher was in McLean 30 Apr (MJW). The maximum count of 7 Yellow-bellied Flycatchers came 26-27 May in Chicago (GAW), while 14 Leasts at Jax. P. 8 May (PRC, SLC) was the high. Twenty-five Willow Flycatchers were count- ed along the Indiana lakefront 23 May QKC et al.). A sizeable group of 5 Western King- birds was in Madison, IL 30 Apr (FRH), an- other was in Massac, IL 13 Apr-5 May (FKB), and a singleton was reported in New- ton, IN 21 May (AS, fide JJM). A Scissor- tailed Flycatcher was discovered 5 May at Horseshoe Lake EWA., Alexander, IL (ph. ID et al). A Loggerhead Shrike 29 Mar at Mon- trose (ph. RC) provided a rare sighting for ne. Illinois. A Warbling Vireo 2 Apr at Mer- met L., Massac, IL (KAM) was early. Bell’s Vireos arrived early as well, with one 24 Apr at Carl. L. (KAM) and another at Goose Pond 27 Apr (DRW), the latter providing the first Apr record for Indiana in 45 years. A nice tally of 26 White-eyed Vireos was made 25 Apr in Jackson, IL (KAM). A singing Yel- low-throated Vireo at L. Monroe 24 Mar (DRW) furnished the first Mar record for In- diana. Lingering Blue-headed Vireos were noted 27 May at Jax. P. (G6aiSD) and in Chicago’s Lincoln Park (GAW). Two Pish Crows heard and seen 21 Apr in Springfield (VMK) were away from their normal areas. There is no evidence that West Nile Virus has decimated local Blue Jay populations, as 12,000+ were recorded along the lakefront this spring. Among these was a record high tally of 3009 at Dunes 1 May (KJB). Cliff Swallows were early, with one in Gol- conda, IL 24 Mar (EWW). A Red- breasted Nuthatch 18 May at Mon- trose (KAM) was the latest of just 4 reported from Illinois. Brown Creep- ers were reported in reduced num- bers and departed early; the latest re- port in Illinois was 6 May at Jax. P. (JSM, PRC). Winter Wrens were also scarce, but one 20 May in Jackson (RMR) was quite late for s. Illinois. Record early for Illinois were 2 Sedge Wrens 23 Mar at Prairie Ridge State Natural Area (CLH). Contrastingly, Marsh Wrens were late to arrive in Illinois, the earliest seen 17 Apr in Marion (TAM). A Golden-crowned Kinglet at Dunes 19 May JJM. RJP) provided the 2nd latest record for Indi- ana, and a Ruby-crowned Kinglet lingered in Beverly Shores, Porter, IN until 26 May (KJB, SRB, JKC, LSH). Overall numbers of thrushes and thrashers were below normal. The peak of 12 Hermit Thrushes noted at McHenry Dam, McHenry, IL 7 Apr (DTW) was espe- cially low. The wintering female Varied Thrush in Rochelle, IL was seen until 17 Mar (m.ob.). A notable total of 400 American Pip- its was recorded 15 Apr at Carl. L. (DMK), and a fine total of 1690 Cedar WaxvHngs was tallied at Dunes 15 May (KJB). This cooperative Townsend's Warbler was the fifth to be documented in Illinois. It lingered 5-9 (here 6) May 2007 at La Bagh Woods Forest Pre- serve in Chicago. Photograph by Kanae Hirabayashi. 444 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS ILLINOIS & INDIANA This Lazuli Bunting was photographed at Sand Bluff Bird Observatory, Winnebago County, llllinois 29 April 2007. Photograph by John Longhenry. WARBLERS Most warblers were present in normal num- bers across the Region. An Orange-crowned Warbler 2 Apr at Ft. Massac S.R (KAM) was notably early. In Indiana, a record spring total of Nashville Warblers was reported, the max- imum tally consisting of 19 at Ft. Harrison S.P., Marion 29 Apr (DG). Northern Parulas at Rend L. 25 Mar (EWW) and at Mississippi Palisades S.R, Carroll, IL 26 Mar (ASt) were early. The 75 Magnolia Warblers in Chicago 15 May (GN) provided a high tally. A female Audubon’s Warbler was reported without de- tails at Carl. L. 6 Apr (DMK); rarer still was an ad. male Townsend’s Warbler 5-9 May in Chicago (MF, m.ob.). An early Palm Warbler was found in Elkhart, IN 26 Mar (DS). A total of 30 Blackpoll Warblers was logged 19 May along L. Michigan in Indiana (KJB, JKC, SRB, EMH et al.), tying the single-day lakefront record; 21 were at Carl. L. 12 May (KAM). A Cerulean Warbler found in Martin 2 Apr (JR, JG) provided a new early spring record for In- diana, and an eager Prothonotary Warbler 2 Apr at Ft. Massac S.R (KAM) was record ear- ly for Illinois. A singing, apparently territorial Worm-eating Warbler at Dunes between 11 (MT) & 26 May (SRB, JKC, LSH, KJB) was exciting, as there are no breeding records for the species at Dunes. Providing a record-early arrival for cen. Illinois was a Louisiana Wa- terthrush 18 Mar in Shelby (KF), while a Con- necticut Warbler 5 May in Shelby (KF) tied previous arrival records for that area. A nice total of 27 Wilson’s Warblers was noted in Chicago 27 May (GAW). TANAGERS THROUGH WEAVER FINCHES A male Spotted Towhee found at Hammond Lakefront Sanctuary 26 (KJB, JKC) & 27 Apr (MT,Jide PBG) provided the first record for the lakefront and 8th for Indiana. A nice accumu- lation of 50 Vesper Sparrows was in DeKalb, IL 12 Apr (REF). A Lark Sparrow in Spencer, IN 12 Apr (ph. DA) was rather early. Grasshopper Sparrows were late, the first appearing 22 Apr in Union (KAM), while a Henslow’s Sparrow at Prairie Ridge State Natu- ral Area 25 Mar (SAS, CLH) was early. The 25 Henslow’s Sparrows 22 Apr at Karl Bartel W.S., Marion, IL (KAM) and the 20 at Chinook Mine, Vigo, IN 12 May (PES) were notable. Two Le Conte’s Sparrows at Prairie Ridge State Natu- ral Area 9 Mar (CLH, RES) were early, and an impressive 8 Le Conte’s were at Clinton L. 14 Apr (TDF et al). The Hammond Lakefront Sanctuary hosted 3 Nelson’s Sharp-tailed Spar- rows 23 May OKC. KJB), while 3 more were tallied at Montrose 24 May (RDH). Fox Spar- rows departed somewhat early, with the latest seen 17 Apr in Downers Grove, IL (REF). The high Illinois count for Lincoln’s Sparrow was lower than usual, with 18 at Jax. P. 8 May (PRC, SLC). Also low was the peak of 55 Swamp Sparrows 27 Apr at Oakwood Bottoms, Jackson, IL (KAM). The Region hosted 5 Har- ris’s Sparrows: 2 were at Moredock L., Monroe, IL 25 Apr (DJ), one was seen 5 May in Knox, IL (Jide PR), one that had wintered in Floyd, IN remained until 4 May (GD), and another was in Elkhart, IN 2 May (PM, DS et al.), providing the first county record since 1932. A Dark- eyed Junco lingered through 28 May at Jax. P. (PRC). Smith’s Longspurs were scarce this spring, the largest group consisting of 120 birds in Montgomery, IN 19 Apr LWS, CCM). A strong flight of Lapland Longspurs was exemplified by a count of 1000 birds at TNC Kankakee Sands 13 Mar QK)- Snow Buntings departed 7 Apr with 2 at Montrose (LGM et al). Rose-breasted Grosbeaks were widely re- ported at feeders when the buds that they normally feed upon were damaged by frost. The peak tally of grosbeaks was of 42 birds in Posey, IN 1 May (SS). An ad. male Lazuli Bunting was mist-netted at Sand Bluff B.O., Winnebago, IL 29 Apr Ql-A, ph. EC); the Re- gion has only three prior accepted records. A pair of Painted Buntings returned to East St. Louis 6 May (DMK), with a male still there 12 May (DMK, KAM). An ad. male Yellow-head- ed Blackbird 10 Mar at Heidecke L. (DFS) ei- ther wintered or was a very early migrant. An- other good flight of Baltimore Orioles was punctuated by a longshore flight of 68 birds at Dunes 8 May (KJB et al). Only 6 total Purple Finches were reported from Illinois, and the lone Common Redpoll was seen 17-24 Mar at Severson Dells FR, Winnebago (BCW, DTW). Indiana reported a few Pine Siskins, but none were reported from Illinois. Contributors (subregional editors in bold- face): Leif Anderson, Jack L. Armstrong, David Ayer, Susan R. Bagby, Margaret L. Baker, David Beery, Frank K. Bennett, Richard & Sig- urd Bjorklund, Gary & Lisa Bowman, Ken- neth J. Brock (Indiana), Brad Bumgardner, William H. Buskirk, Byron K. & Maggie But- ler, Eddie Callaway, Scott L. Carpenter, John K. Cassady, John S. Castrale, Michael Clarke, Paul R. Clyne, James Cole, Rob Curtis, Glyn & Sylvia Dawson, Myrna F Deaton, Tim J. De- ver, Alfred G. Dierkes, Ida Domazlicky Gary Dorman, Jerry Downs, Tim Earle, Joshua 1. Engel, Terry L. Esker, Carolyn Fields, Robert E. Fisher, Karen Forcum, Steven M. Freed, Tyler D. Funk, Michal Furmanek, Don Gor- ney, Jamie Griggs, Brendan J. Grube, Peter B. Grube, Ann Harness, C. Leroy Harrison, Ann B. Haverstock, James A. Haw, Roger S. Hayes, James & Susan Hengeveld, Jed B. Hertz, Lynea S. Hinchman, Kanae Hirabayashi, John W. Hockman, Frank R. Holmes, Larry L. Hood, Edward M. Hopkins, Robert D. Hughes, Cathie Hutcheson, Dennis Jacobsen, Paul & Barbara Johnson, Dan M. Kassebaum, John Kendall, Vernon M. Kleen, Travis A. Mahan (Illinois), Jeffrey S. Maharry, Walter J. Marcisz, Thomas U. May, Jeffrey J. McCoy, Owen McHugh, Keith A. McMullen, Margo Milde, Perry Miller, Chuck E. Mills, Luis G. Munoz, Clint C. Murray, Susan Murphy, Greg Neise, Leslie Noa, Randy J. Pals, Larry Peavler, Judy Pollock, Phil Reyburn, Jeffrey Riegel, Rhonda M. Rothrock, Haley & Randy Samuelson- Couchman, Jennifer Schmidt, Peter E. Scott, Brad Semel, Robert E. Shelby, Andrew Sigler, Scott A. Simpson, Sharon Sorenson, Steve Spitzer (SSp), Lee W. Sterrenburg, Alan F Stokie, Daniel Stoltzfus, Anne Straight (ASt), Douglas F Stotz, Jeffrey O. Sundberg, Edward J. Teune, Michael Topp, Jeffrey W. Walk, Eric W. Walters, Tony Ward, J. Daniel Webster, Donald R. Whitehead, David Wiechers (DWi), Barbara C. Williams, Daniel T. Williams, Don- ald Williams, Geoffrey A. Williamson, Matthew J. Winks. The contributions of many other individuals who were not explicitly cit- ed were critical to the preparation of this re- port. We thank them for their observations. O James D. Hengeveld, 6354 Southshore Drive Unionville, Indiana 47468, (jhengeve@indiana.edu) Keith A. McMullen, 1405 DeSoto O'Falion, Illinois 62269, (warbler7@sbcglobal.net) Geoffrey A. Williamson, 4046 North Clark Street, Unit K Chicago, Illinois 60613 (geoffrey.williamson@comcast.net) VOLUME 61 (2007) NUMBER 3 445 Western Great Lakes Adam M. Byrne Avery warm late March brought many species north earlier than usual. Win- ter returned in early April when a powerful storm brought cold weather and snow Regionwide. Southern Michigan had only a few inches of snow, but Marquette in the Upper Peninsula accumulated four feet in just four days. The rest of the season experi- enced rather uneventful weather, with very few intense low-pressure systems. Many species arrived earlier than expected, but numbers remained low; many birders charac- terized this spring as one of the worst warbler migrations in decades. WATERFOWL Michigan had very few rare geese this spring, with only 7 Greater White-fronted Geese in three counties and one Ross’s Goose in Cass 27 Mar QTW, p.a.). Minnesota reported a high count of 13,695 Greater White-fronteds in Lac Qui Park 16 Mar (BJU) and a statewide total of 716 Ross’s Geese in 25 counties that included a high count of 208 in Lac Qui Parle 15 Mar (BJU). Wisconsin recorded Ross’s Geese in 11 counties. Pointe Mouillee State Game Area (hereafter P.M.S.G.A.), Monroe, Ml had some impressive duck totals this spring, with peaks of 2329 Gadwalls 17 Mar and 2096 American Wigeons 23 Mar (AMB). Male Eurasian Wigeons were photographed in Out- agamie, W1 6-14 Apr (m.ob.) and in Mack- inac, MI 26 Apr (JZ). A bird originally report- ed as a Eurasian Wigeon at Hyland L., Bloom- ington, MN 25-26 Mar was actually an Eurasian Wigeon x American Wigeon hybrid (PCC). Wisconsin also had an unusual hy- brid, a male Blue-winged Teal x Cinnamon Teal in Sauk 6 Apr (AH). The 1304 Ring-necked Ducks on 29 Mar at Shiawassee N.W.R., Saginaw, MI (DP) was the highest Saginaw Bay area total since 1990, while 44,500 Greater Scaup in Oconto 4 Apr QS) was Wisconsin’s largest flock in many years. Wisconsin had wintering Harlequin Ducks stay through 25 May in Sheboygan QC) and additional birds in Racine 20-28 Apr (RJ) and Ozaukee 13 Apr+ (OB). A Black Scoter in Renville, MN 9-15 Apr made a first county record (RBW, m.ob.); Wisconsin had an un- usual report of a young male Black Scoter at Horicon Marsh, Fond du Lac 12-19 May (TS). In Wisconsin, wintering male Barrow’s Gold- eneyes lingered through 10 Mar in Milwaukee (TW), and another was in Ashland 24-31 Mar (RB); Minnesota had a male in Cass 26 Mar-10 Apr (BAW). LOONS THROUGH HERONS Wisconsin had a poor spring for Red-throated Loons, with only four reports from L. Michi- gan. Minnesota reported Red-throateds as usual at Duluth, St. Louis in May. Whitefish Point B.O. (hereafter, W.P.B.O.), Chippewa, Ml had 478 after 20 Apr, with a peak of 73 on 1 May. Two Horned Grebes in Keweenaw, Ml 31 May were late (LCB). Michigan and Wiscon- sin both had two Eared Grebe reports, while one out of range in Minnesota was in Lake 19- 20 May OWL), and 2 were in St. Louis 19-22 May (AS, m.ob.). Interesting for Minnesota were 2 Western Grebes in St. Louis 19-24 May (AS, m.ob.), while Wisconsin reported one in Dane 23 May (CH, ASt). Minnesota hosted the only Clark’s Grebe at Thielke L., Big Stone 30 Apr+ (CMB, DBE, SEE, m.ob.). Large numbers of American White Pelicans in Michigan’s Up- per Peninsula were quite expected, as the sta- tus of this species changes to breeder. Min- nesota’s 4th Neotropic Cormorant was at Dia- mond L., Hennepin 9-18 May (PEB, m.ob.). Southern heron diversity and numbers were down Regionwide. Michigan had only 3 Snovi^ Egrets and Wisconsin only one, while Minnesota had 13 in seven counties, including a record-early Snowy in Dakota 25-26 Mar (CMB, m.ob.). The only Little Blue Herons were singles in Brown, W1 10 May (TB) and Rice, MN 23 May (TEB). Tricolored Herons were found in Roseau, MN 14 May QK et al, p.a.) and Iosco, MI 22 May QD, GN, p.a.). Min- nesota had 28 Cattle Egrets statewide in 13 counties, including one n. report in Marshall 10 May (GT). Michigan had 3 Cattle Egrets 19 May+ in Bay (]So, GP, DJ, DD, m.ob.) and one at P.M.S.G.A. 19 May (AMB), while Wisconsin had only 4 birds in four counties. The only Yel- low-crowned Night-Heron was an ad. in Racine, WI 27 Apr (PH). Ibis numbers were the only bright spot amongst the heron group, with good numbers reported in all three states. Minnesota’s 3rd Glossy Ibis was in Lac Qui Parle 29 Apr-1 May amongst a flock of 22 White-faced Ibis (WCM, PME, PN, JPE, m.ob.). Michigan had 6 Glossy Ibis 20 May+ at P.M.S.G.A. (SM, m.ob., p.a.), and Wisconsin had one in Grant 18 May (TS) and 8 in Fond du Lac 19-27 May (TW). VULTURES THROUGH SHOREBIRDS Minnesota recorded its 4th Black Vulture in Washington 24-25 Mar (BRL, m.ob.), while Wisconsin’s 7th record was in Brown 28 Apr (TB). Michigan had only one Swainson’s Hawk, on 22 Apr at W.PB.O., while the only Eerruginous Hawks were 2 light-morph ads. at different locales in Lac Qui Parle, MN (BJU). Minnesota also hosted a wintering Gyrfalcon that lingered through 23 Mar in Dakota and a Prairie Falcon in Meeker 25 Mar (DMF). A Black Rail was heard by many 13- 24 May in Berrien, furnishing Michigan with its 4th record and first for the spring season QW, m.ob., p.a.). Michigan also reported the only King Rails, 2 in St. Clair 8 May (MS, p.a.). Far north were 3 Common Moorhens in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and one at Du- luth, St. Louis, MN; this species seems to be doing quite well in Michigan of late, perhaps lending to the increase in the number of wan- dering birds. Michigan had its best spring for American Golden-Plovers since 2004, with 9 birds in four counties. Minnesota recorded its 10th Snowy Plover at Duluth, St. Louis 30-31 May (SCZ, KRE, PHS, CLW) and a record-high spring tally of 300 Semipalmated Plovers at L. Byllesby, Dakota 15 May QPM). Four Pip- ing Plovers in three Minnesota counties was a major improvement after having none last spring; Wisconsin reported birds from three counties. Once again, all three states report- ed Black-necked Stilts. Wisconsin had one stilt on 23 Apr in Eau Claire 0?) and 2 there on 23 Apr (BS), plus another 19-23 May (PB) in Jefferson. Two stilts in Berrien 6 May+ (DV, m.ob., p.a.) provided Michigan its 6th record, while Minnesota had one in Rock 26 May (LS, KRE). Wisconsin had 14 American Avocets in 10 counties, making this season one of the best for this species in decades. Minnesota also had large numbers of avo- cets, with 85 birds in 15 counties; Michigan had only one in Muskegon 28 Apr QL)- Min- nesota had a record-high count of 63 Upland Sandpipers in Polk 9 May (RPR et al.). Min- nesota’s only significant numbers of Hudson- ian Godwits were at Agassiz N.W.R., Mar- shall, while Michigan and Wisconsin had very few godwits of either species. Minneso- ta had single Red Knots in Pope 17-18 May (HHD, RBW, CMB), Lac Qui Parle 19 May (PHS), and St. Louis 25 May QLR)- Wiscon- sin had only 2 knots in Kewaunee 3 May (TB), and Michigan had 2 in Iosco 24 May (SF) and one at W.PB.O. 28 May. Unusual for Michigan were a Stilt Sandpiper 19 May (AMB) and a Long-billed Dowitcher 13 May OJ), both at RM.S.G.A. Casual in spring was a Buff-breasted Sandpiper in Marshall, MN 446 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS WESTERN GREAT LAKES 14 May (PHS). Red-necked Phalaropes were scarce Regionwide; Michigan had only one in Alger 23 May (DS). One Red-necked at Duluth, St. Louis, MN 27 May OLR) was un- usual for that locale. Providing Minnesota’s 3rd spring record and 15th overall was a fe- male Red Phalarope in Big Stone 28 May (PHS). GULLS THROUGH HUMMINGBIRDS Michigan had three Laughing Gull reports in Berrien and one in the Upper Peninsula’s Ke- weenaw 24-25 May MH), all of single birds, while Wisconsin had five reports along L. Michigan, with a peak of 4 in Ozaukee 26 May (TU). Franklin’s Gulls were scarce in both Wisconsin and Michigan; Wisconsin had only 3 Franklin’s, while Michigan had only one in Berrien 26 May (TBa). Wisconsin had an incredible spring for Little Gull, total- ing at least 10 birds from seven counties, in- cluding 4 in Sheboygan 31 May (JF). Min- nesota had an ad. 23 May (KRE, RLE et al.) and first-year bird 27 May (TCL, CLW), both at Duluth, while Michigan had only one in Iosco 27 May QZ). An imm. Black-headed Gull was found in Sheboygan, WI 30 May (DT, p.a.). A California Gull found in St. Louis, MN 27 May (CLW, TCL) was also re- ported from Douglas, WI. Casual for Michi- gan was a California Gull in Berrien 30 May (MHy, p.a.). A late Thayer’s Gull was in Lake, MN 20 May QCG, JWL). Wisconsin’s winter- ing Slaty-backed Gull in Winnebago remained through 11 Mar (SFr). A Black-legged Kitti- wake in Sheboygan 27 May+ (SC) represents Wisconsin’s 2nd spring record. An Arctic Tern frequented Duluth, St. Louis, MN 22-29 May (KRE, m.ob.); the same location hosted the Region’s only jaeger, an ad. light-morph Para- sitic 22 May (KRE). Eurasian Collared-Doves are becoming very difficult to track in Minnesota, with re- ports coming from 20 different counties. Wis- consin had collared-doves in 11 counties, yet Michigan had only one in Marquette 30 May (SH, p.a.). Minnesota’s 11th White-winged Dove visited a feeder in Kittson, MN 4-22 May (LW, m.ob.). A very cooperative Barn Owl spent the day roosting at Tawas Point S.P, Iosco 17 May ODu, LC, LG, m.ob., p.a.), pro- viding Michigan with only its 4th record since 1987; Wisconsin had a Barn Owl in Dane 3-6 Mar (ASt, TP). Snowy Owls lingered in one Michigan and three Wisconsin counties. Min- nesota had around 110 Short-eared Owls statewide, including high counts of 35 in Wilkin 9 Mar QPE) and 27 in Polk 10 Mar QMJ). A change in methodology led to an amazing number of captured Northern Saw- whet Owls at W.PB.O., with 835 after 16 Mar. For the 3rd consecutive spring, Chuck-will’s- widows returned to sites in both Michigan and Wisconsin; Michigan’s bird was present in Berrien 2 May+ (MB), and Wisconsin had one in Jackson 21 May (AP). Unprecedented in spring for Michigan was an ad. Rufous Hummingbird in Keweenaw 16 May (FR, LCB, p.a.). WOODPECKERS THROUGH WARBLERS Remaining from the impressive winter inva- sion were American Three-toed Woodpeckers in Aitkin and Pine in Minnesota and in Mar- quette, ML The Region’s first Couch’s King- bird was heard and photographed at Tawas Point S.P., Iosco, MI 26-28 May (KO, BM, AMB, KZ, m.ob.). Wisconsin had Western Kingbirds in Dane 8 May (BB) and Dunn 26 May (PC), while Michigan had singles in Delta 21-22 May (MHe) and at W.PB.O. 29 May (CB). Scissor-tailed Flycatchers were ob- served in Minnesota 23-26 Apr in Olmsted (LAV, CMB, JPM) and 23-25 May at Duluth (SCZ). Wisconsin had Scissor-taileds in Bay- Jield 3-4 May (WV) and in St. Croix 28 May (LP), while Michigan had reports from Chippewa 7-8 May (MHe) and Iosco 25 May QKe). Minnesota still supports breeding Log- gerhead Shrikes, but their numbers continue to decline; this year, the statewide total was 24 shrikes in 14 counties, below the 1992- 1996 average for the 11th consecutive spring. Wisconsin had four Loggerhead reports, in- cluding a nesting pair in Bayfield 19 May (TO), while a migrant in Berrien 19 May (EE) was Michigan’s first spring record since 2003. Minnesota reported a White-eyed Vireo in Hennepin 7-8 May QEP, CMB, DAC) and Bell’s Vireos at the usual Twin Cities and south-cen- tral/southeast locations. Wisconsin had a record-early Northern Rough-winged Swal- low 26 Mar in Portage (JS). A Mountain Blue- bird in St. Clair 2-4 Apr (TD, m.ob., p.a.) pro- vided Michigan’s 4th state record, while Min- nesota had reports from Pennington 23 Mar (SAS) and Clay 28 Apr (PBB). Michigan had Tovmsend’s Solitaires through 17 Mar in Ke- weenaw (TA) and on 16 Apr in Marquette (RR). Minnesota reported 5 solitaires in four counties and 8 Varied Thrushes in seven counties; the last of Wisconsin’s wintering Varied Thrushes lingered through 13 Apr in Bayfield (RB). Northern Mockingbirds put on a great showing in Wisconsin, with reports from eight counties. Wisconsin hosted its 3rd Audubon’s War- bler in Milwaukee 23 Apr (SL), while Michi- gan’s 7th Black-throated Gray Warbler was found at Ann Arbor, Washtenaw 24 Apr (RK, AK, LSh). A Yellow-throated Warbler in Bay, Ml 15 May (DD) was only the 3rd Saginaw Bay area record, and W.PB.O. had its first record on 18 May (SZ, MHe); Wisconsin had Yellow-throateds in Grant and Milwaukee (SL). Pine Warblers in Dane (ML) and LaCrosse QR) on 28 Mar tied for Wisconsin’s record-early arrival date. A male Prairie War- bler set up territory in Dakota, MN 30 May+ OSw, TPB, CLW, m.ob.); this same location hosted a Prairie Warbler during the summer of 2005. Wisconsin reported a Prairie Warbler in Sauk 23 May (RH). Cerulean Warblers were reported from 15 s. Minnesota counties, including a first county record in Stevens 20 May (BJU). Michigan reported 4 Worm-eating Warblers in Berrien after 3 May, while Wis- consin had one in Brawn 4 May (TB). One Worm-eating Warbler in Clay 6 May (DPW, PBB) was Minnesota’s 2nd record since 2001 of this formerly regular species. Minnesota had a male Kentucky Warbler return to Blue Earth 14-28 May for the 8th consecutive year and an out-of-range Hooded Warbler in Lac Qui Parle 15 May (BJU). North of normal for Michigan was a pair of Hoodeds in Emmet 29 May (K6a;SS). TANAGERS THROUGH WEAVER FINCHES Minnesota had Summer Tanagers in six coun- ties, including first county records in Eari- bault 8 May (WAF) and Kittson 28 May (GB), while Michigan had 6 birds in five counties. Wisconsin had 8 Summer Tanagers in seven counties and Western Tanagers in Clark 26 Apr (DF) and Portage 14 May (TS). Minneso- ta had Westerns in Ereeborn 24-27 Apr (AEB, CMB, JEM), Anoka 25-29 Apr (TM, m.ob.), and Lac Qui Parle 21 May (BJU). Wintering Green-tailed Towhees remained through 5 Mar in Marquette, MI and 23 Apr in Cotton- wood, MN, while the only Spotted Towhee was a male in Hennepin, MN 24-29 Apr (TMo, CMB, JPM). Migrant Nelson’s Sharp-tailed Sparrows were found in Milwaukee, WI 22 May (SL) and Muskegon, MI 26 May QVK). Minnesota had an impressive 240 Harris’s Sparrows in Lac Qui Parle 6 May (BJU). Wis- consin recorded them in four counties, while Michigan had singles at W.PB.O. 8 May and in Keweenaw 10 May (LCB). Unique to Min- nesota were Smith’s Longspurs in four coun- ties, including a high count of 42 in Big Stone 26 Apr (BJU), a late May male Black-headed Grosbeak in Wilkin (L&PT, p.a.), and a Blue Grosbeak in Clay 6 May (RHO, PBB). Each state reported an ad. male Painted Bunting; Wisconsin had one in Milwaukee 10 May (TW), Michigan in Berrien 19 May (MW), and Minnesota in Lake 19-23 May (S&RC, JWL, p.a.). Dickcissel reports from four VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 447 WESTERN GREAT LAKES Michigan counties were strong indicators of a good summer invasion. A record-high spring count in Minnesota was 1300 Rusty Blackbirds in Lac Qui Parle 21 Mar (BJU). Wisconsin’s first Great-tailed Grackle from winter lingered through 19 Apr in Dodge (LM), and a 2nd grackle was located in Grant 3 May Ok); Minnesota reported Great-taileds from four counties. A Gray- crowned Rosy-Finch at ilAnse, Baraga, Ml stayed through 16 Mar (TA), while the 3 in Carlton, MN lingered through 26 Mar (MSc, m.ob.). Michigan reported no Pine Grosbeaks but had impressive numbers of Common Redpolls and White-winged Crossbills that far exceeded anything in the last decade. W.P.B.O. reported 2182 White-wingeds for the season, with a peak of 937 on 30 Mar. Minnesota’s 7th Eurasian Tree Sparrow was found in St. Louis 15 Apr (A&AB), while Michigan had one continuing in Cass until at least 4 May and a surprising group of 3 in Ke- weenaw 5-11 May (LCB, m.ob., p.a.). Corrigenda: From spring 2006, delete the Ross’s Goose at Eau Claire, Berrien 18-21 Mar, the Tufted Duck in Huron 15-21 May, Bell’s Vireo in Wayne 6 May, and Western Tanager in Iosco 26-27 May, all in Michigan. Contributors (subregional editors in bold- face): Tom Auer, Tim Baerwald (TBa), A1 E. Batt, Ty Baumann (TB), Patrick A. Beauzay, Anne & Allan Bier, Laurence C. Binford, Tom E Boevers, Owen Boyle, Ryan Brady, Terry R Brashear, Calvin Brennan (CB), Peter Bridge (PB), Glenn Browne, Connie M. Brunell, Bob Bucci, Marvin Budd, Paul E. Budde, Deb Buria-Falkowski, Adam M. Byrne, David A. Cahlander, Linda Camburn, Joan Campbell, Pamela Campbell (PC), Philip C. Chu, Sue & Ray Churack, Seth Cutright (SC), Jim Dawe QD), Tom Dennis, Herb H. Dingmann, Jon Dunn ODu), Dan Duso, Kim R. Eckert, Paul M. Egeland, Robert E. Ekblad, John P Ellis, Erik Enbody Steven L. Falkowski, Dave Far- ris (DF), Wayne A. Feder, Sean Fitzgerald (SF), Scott Franke (SFr), Dan M. Floren, Leonard Graf, Janet C. Green, Skye Haas, Chuck Heikkinen, Max Henschell (MHe), Anthony X. Hertzel, Randy Hoffman, Aaron Holschbach (AH), Patrick Horn, Mark Hub- inger (MH), Matt Hysell (MHy), Doug Jack- son, Paul E. Jantscher, Rebecca Jarvis, Jeanie M.Joppru, Jerry Jourdan (JJ), Andreas Kanon, Joe Kaplan Qka), Joey Kellner O^e), Jim Kiehne (JK), Douglas W. Kieser, Jonathan V. Koppel, Roger Kuhlman, Joseph Lautenbach (JL), Timothy C. Lenz, James W. Lind, Bill R. Litkey Michael Lohre, Steve Lubahn, Thomas Maiello ™, Scott Manly William C. Marengo, James R Mattsson, Tom Moffatt, John E. Mor- rison, Brad Murphy, Gary Nelkie, Peter Neubeck, Robert H. O’Connor, Tim Oksiuta, Karl Overman, Andy Paulios, Larry Persico, David Peters, Glenn Peterson, Janine Polk OP), James E. Pomplun, Tom Prestby Fred Reese, Jack Reinoehl, Janet L. Riegle, Jean Rusher (JR), Robert P, Russell, Jr., Ryne Rutherford (RR), Michael Sanders (MS), Joe Schaufenbuel QS), Tricia Schaufenbuel (TSc), A1 Schirmacher (AS), Mike Schrage (MSc), Tom Schultz (TS), Larry Sheldon (LSh), Brand Smith, Don Snignen, Joe Soehnel OSo), Linda Sparling (LS), Ken & Sally Stebbins, Shelly A. Steva, Aaron Stutz (ASt), Peder H. Svingen, Jon Swanson QSw), Daryl Tessen, Linda & Paul Thulin, Gary Tischer, Bill J. Un- zen, Tom Uttech, Wally Vietmeier, David Vinnedge, Lance A. Vrieze, Mindy Walker, Ben A. Wieland, Dennis R Wiesenborn, Larry Wilebski, Robert B. Williams, Todd Wilson (TWi), Christopher L. Wood, Tom Wood (TW), Jon Wuepper, Skip Zabel (SZ), Jerry Ziamo, Shawn C. Zierman, Kirk Zufelt. ^ Adam M. Byrne, 11771 Rachel Lane DeWitt, Michigan 48820, (byrnea@msu.edu) Iowa & Missouri Stephen J. Dinsmore The 2007 spring season was one of weather contrasts across the Region. A blizzard enveloped Iowa at the start of the season, but temperatures were above nor- mal for the last two thirds of the month. This warm weather and southerly airflow was re- sponsible for record- or near-record-early ar- rivals of many passerines in both states. Cold- er weather and snow returned during the first half of April, slowing migration, but warmer temperatures quickly returned and reached record highs in some areas by month’s end. The April cold snap negatively impacted many early shorebirds, Rurple Martins, and Tree Swallows, as it refroze some wetlands and damaged early blooming plants. May saw above-normal temperatures and precipitation for much of the Region, finally ending the prolonged drought in most areas. A series of strong cold fronts with heavy rains passed through the Region in mid-May but generally resulted in a poor grounding of Neotropical migrants. Consequently, the spring passerine migration was considered slow. Rarities in- cluded Harlequin Duck, Glossy Ibis, Rock Wren, Mountain Bluebird, and Bullock’s Ori- ole. In addition, a nice flurry of White-faced Ibis, more White-winged Doves, 2 Western Tanagers, and a passle of Lazuli and Tainted Buntings added spice to a good spring season. Abbreviations: E.B.C.A. (Eagle Bluffs C.A., Boone, MO); Hawkeye (Hawkeye W.A., John- son, lA); R.M.B.S. (Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary, St. Charles, MO); Riverton (River- ton W.A., Fremont, lA); S.C.R. (Squaw Creek N.W.R., Holt, MO); Saylorville (Saylorville Res., Polk, lA); T.G.R (Tower Grove Rark, St. Louis City, MO). WATERFOWL Black-bellied Whistling-Ducks continued their presence in the Region, with two Iowa reports: 6 May at L. Manawa, Pottawattamie (TKDy) and 6 near Mt. Rleasant, Henry 27 May-4 Jun (Dick Reterson, ph.). The water- fowl migration was about average, with excel- lent numbers of Chen geese in both states. Along the Missouri R., counts of 500,000 Snow Geese 5 Mar in Saline, MO (SH, EW) and 3200 Ross’s Geese 14 Mar at Riverton (SJD) were quite high. Trumpeter Swans are becoming routine, with good concentrations of 26 (all unmarked) on 10 Mar at Runnells ; W.A., Polk, lA (AB, JG) and 14 on 17 Mar at j S.C.R. (LL), with one there through 26 Apr 448 NORTHAMERICANBIRDS IOWA & MISSOURI These Glossy Ibis were part of a remarkable flock of seven discovered 7 May 2007 at Moeckley Prairie, Polk County, Iowa. Photograph by Jay Gilliam. (TR). It was a great spring for Cinnamon Teal: 4 males were noted in Missouri 5 Apr-6 May and 7 males in Iowa 8 Apr-9 May; most were in the w. half of the Region. In addition, 2 hy- brids with Blue-winged Teal were reported in Missouri. The 2 male Harlequin Ducks re- ported from winter lingered until 1 1 Mar at Lock & Dam 14, Scott, lA (m.ob.). A sprin- kling of other sea ducks included 2 Surf Scot- ers and 4-5 Long-tailed Ducks in Iowa and 3 Surf Scoters in Missouri. Lingering waterfowl included a Ross’s Goose 30 May in Polk, lA (AB), a Canvasback 31 May at R.M.B.S. (CM), and a Common Goldeneye 28 May in Mar- shall, lA (MPr). PARTRIDGE THROUGH RAPTORS Gray Partridge appear to be slowly on the in- crease in n. Iowa, with numerous reports this spring in the n. half of the state. Native grouse did not fare as well. Ruffed Grouse were scarce, with single reports from strongholds in Allamakee and Lucas in Iowa and Warren, MO. Greater Prairie-Chickens are continuing their downward trend at leks in Benton (EW), Harrison (m.ob.), St. Clair (EW), and Sullivan (PW) in Missouri. At the lone Iowa lek at Kellerton Grasslands B.C.A., Ringgold, an en- couraging 22 birds were tallied 1 Apr (Dennis Thompson) and a possible stray from South Dakota was in Plymouth 19 May (tSJD, tJG). Two Pacific Loons were reported in Iowa: 10 May near Sioux Center, Sioux (tKen Hollinga) and 18-27 May at the Council Bluffs energy ponds, Pottawattamie (tBill Scheible). An impressive spring concentra- tion of 177 Common Loons graced Clear L., Cerro Gordo, lA 13 Apr (Rita Goranson, PH). There were seven reports of Red-necked Grebe in Iowa 2 Apr-21 May, more than usu- al, to go along with four reports of Western Grebe 24 Apr-31 May. American White Peli- cans continue to increase in the Region, as counts of 5100 in Lincoln, MO 18 Mar (Eric Schuette) and 1500 in Polk, lA 11 Apr (BN) attest. American Bitterns had an excellent spring migration, with early arrivals on 24 Mar at R.M.B.S. OWE) and 28 Mar in Fre- mont, lA (tKDy) and reports of up to 14 birds through the end of the season. Four Snowy Egrets and a Little Blue Heron in Iowa were about par for the spring; 1200 Little Blue Herons and 700 Cattle Egrets 20 May at a nesting colony in Scott, MO was impressive OWE). A remarkable flock of 7 Glossy Ibis was seen 7 May at Moeckley Prairie, Polk, lA (TAB, ph., m. ob.), while a single was present at Hawkeye 12-16 May (THK, ph., m.ob.). White-faced Ibis had an av- erage spring, with five re- ports of up to 10 birds in each state 13 Apr-19 May. Mississippi Kites contin- ue to expand in the Region. Numerous Missouri reports after 22 Apr included in- creasing numbers away from traditional Mississippi R. haunts. In Iowa, a record- early individual was seen 7 May in Fremont (KDy), and birds were back at their tra- ditional Des Moines locales after 9 May OB et al). Bald Eagles continue to increase, with 150 nests in Missouri (Andrew Forbes) and a peak of 214 birds at Saylorville 18 Mar (SJD). The only Northern Goshawks were Iowa singles on 5 Mar at Saylorville (Darwin Koenig) and 13 Mar at Waubonsie S.P., Fremont (LJP, BKP). Red-shouldered Hawks appear to be slowly expanding in the n. part of the Region, with three reports in the n. third of Missouri and six Iowa reports away from traditional nesting areas. A few Swain- son’s Hawks were in each state after early Apr, about typical for spring. Golden Eagles lin- gered in both states; there were five Mar re- ports in Missouri and three reports in Mar-Apr in Iowa. The five Prairie Falcon re- ports, 2 birds in Missouri and 3 in Iowa, were all clustered in the period 4-14 Mar. RAILS THROUGH TERNS The only King Rails were one in Warren, I A 8 May (TJG) and 2 at Clarence Cannon N.W.R., Pike, MO 12 May QWE). Early migrant rails included a Virginia on 23 Mar at S.C.R. (Peter Kondrashov) and a Sora on 31 Mar in Story, I A (SJD). Sandhill Cranes, possibly breeders, included a pair 6 Mar-31 May at S.C.R. (TR), where they nested last year, and numerous groups of up to 18 in the e. half of Iowa. The shorebird migration was excellent again this spring. American Golden-Plovers put in a good early showing, with counts of 579 in Lincoln, MO 21 Mar (DR) and 147 in Fremont, lA 24 Mar (KDy). Counts of 100+ continued through May, with 139 on 18 May in Pocahontas, lA (SJD) being the last large group. Two Snowy Plovers at S.C.R. 29 Apr OWE) was the only report of this rare mi- grant. Wandering Black-necked Stilts includ- ed one at E.B.C.A. 2 Apr (Bill Goodge),, 2 at S.C.R. 14-29 Apr (TR), 3 at R.M.B.S. 2-3 May (DR et al.), one at Bob Brown C.A., Holt, MO 16 May (MBR), and a female on 9 May at Hawkeye (THK, ph., m.ob.). Widely scat- tered groups of up to 37 American Avocets were seen in both states after 12 Apr, about typical for spring. Whimbrels made news in both states, with up to 3 on 31 Mar-13 Apr at R.M.B.S. (tCM, ph., m.ob., record early); an- other record-early individual was seen 15-17 Apr at Coralville Res., Johnson, I A (TORE, m.ob.). Three additional Missouri reports 12 This Whimbrel at Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary, St. Charles County, Missouri 1 April 2007 was part of an early flight in the Iowa & Missouri region. Photograph by James P.Mahne. VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 449 IOWA & MISSOURI This female Scissor-tailed Flycatcher was a one-day wonder on 7 May 2007 at Cottonwood Recreation Area below Saylorville dam, Polk County, Iowa. Photograph by Jay Gilliam. Apr-22 May made for a good spring showing. An unusual flurry of Western Sandpiper sightings included three Missouri reports 2- 24 May and three Iowa reports 22-25 May. These reports are later than expected when compared to historical reports and indicate a need for careful documentation of all spring reports of this species in the Region. Two Iowa Buff-breasted Sandpipers reports 15-17 May highlight the migration timing for this rare spring migrant. The only Red-necked Phalaropes were in Woodbury, lA: 7 (FOR) & 19-20 May (SJD, JG, m.ob.). Many shorebirds arrived early this spring. Notable records in- cluded a record-early Piping Plover 8 Apr in Harrison, lA Qonas Grundman), Upland Sandpipers on 17 Mar in Dunklin, MO (tBill Reeves) and 2 Apr in Decatur, lA (NJM), 3 Dunlins on 1 Apr in Greene, lA (SJD, AB), and a record-early Wilson’s Phalarope 24 Mar at B.K. Leach C.A., Lincoln, MO (DR, Tom Bormann). Gulls made news in both states. An ad. Laughing Gull 1 1 Apr-9 May at Smithville L., Clay, MO (DW, tKristi Mayo) was unusual away from the Mississippi River. Almost as re- markable was a report of 3 at Otter Slough C.A. 4 May (tRobert Lewis, Steve Dilks). As expected, rare gulls from winter lingered into spring in both states. An ad. Iceland Gull 3-4 Mar at Lock & Dam 14, Scott, lA (tSMF) was notable. Up to 5 Lesser Black-backed Gulls re- mained through 13 Mar at the latter site (SMF, m.ob.); a minimum of 3 birds at R.M.B.S. this spring included one on 3 May (CM, ph.); and an ad. was late on 26 Apr at Coralville Res., Johnson, lA (CRE, CJC, Diana Pesek). Glau- cous Gulls lingered through 11 Mar at R.M.B.S. (JWE, Dave Becher) and 15 Apr at Saylorville (Bery Engebretsen, AB, JG, record late). Young Great Black-backed Gulls lin- gered until 4 Mar at R.M.B.S. QPM, CM, m.ob.) and 23 Mar in Scott, lA (tSMF). A Caspian Tern was early on 31 Mar at R.M.B.S. (JWE). DOVES THROUGH WAXWINGS White-winged Doves again made headlines, with one from 19 Apr- 14 May in Johnston, Polk, lA (tStephanie Elater, ph., m.ob.), up to 2 birds 20 Apr-20 May in East Prairie, Mississippi, MO QWE, m.ob.), one on 19 May in Webster, MO (Jackie West), and one on 28 May in Jefferson City, Cole, MO Oim Rathert). Single Greater Roadrunners were e. of their typical Missouri range in Reynolds 18 May (TAndrew Cox) and Shan- non 18 May (tPaul McKenzie). Lingering Snowy Owls were restricted to Iowa, with sin- gles at Neal Smith N.W.R., Jasper 20 Mar (Karen Vista-Sparkman), in Warren 24 Mar (JG, ph., m.ob ), and near Pella, Marion 8 Apr (BN, ph.); photographs suggest they may have been the same individual. A territorial pair of Short-eared Owls on 18 Apr at Copp Prairie, Kossuth, lA (MCK) suggests nesting for this rare Regional breeder. Unusually ear- ly Ruby-throated Hummingbirds were found in both states: 22 Mar at Salem, Dent, MO (fide CM) and 22 Apr at Ames, Stoty, lA (David C. Edwards). The wintering Rufous Hummingbird at Cape Girardeau, Cape Gi- rardeau, MO was last seen on 8 Apr (JideJPU). Red-headed Woodpeckers are drawing conservation attention in the Region, so counts of 48 on 3 May in Decatur, lA (NJM) and 62 on 12 May in Livingston, MO (SK) were encouraging. Yellow-bellied and Alder Flycatchers had a good spring migration; 12 Alders each on 21 May at S.C.R. (TR) and 24 May at Lime Creek Nature Center, Cerro Gor- do (PH) were good counts. Eastern Phoebes arrived early in Iowa, with numerous reports 10-14 Mar, within a few days of the record- early date. Scissor-tailed Flycatchers were more numerous than normal; out-of-range birds included a breeding pair in Livingston, MO (SK) and singles in Butler, MO (BB, JWE, JPM) and Mississippi, MO GPU), hr Fremont, lA 28 Apr (KDy, ph.), in Polk, lA 1 May (Dick Stilwell, ph., m.ob.), and in Dallas, lA 10 May (TLeland Searles). The last Northern Shrike was seen 27 Mar at Dunbar Slough, Greene, lA (RIA, PHA). Early vireos in Missouri included a White- eyed 31 Mar in Butler (BB) and a Warbling 26 Mar in St. Louis (tMargy Terpstra). Black- billed Magpies maintained their lone outpost in Plymouth, lA, with one or 2 birds seen after 14 Apr (POR, m.ob.). Fish Crows continue to increase in Missouri and are being seen earlier and in greater numbers. Out-of-range birds in- cluded one at E.B.C.A. 13 Mar (Brad Jacobs) and one at Knob Noster S.P, Johnson 27 Apr (Neil Young). Purple Martins and Tree Swal- lows arrived very early in both states. Martins were in s. Missouri by late Feb (fide CM) and reached Wayne, I A by 24 Mar (AB). Tree Swal- lows were widespread in Missouri by early Mar, record early arrivals reached Scott, lA by 10 Mar (tWalter Zuurdeeg, tDon Robinson), and they were widely reported from several Iowa locales 11-13 Mar. Intriguing were re- ports of Carolina Chickadees expanding northward into Cooper and Moniteau, MO (tEW); it would be interesting to know if any of these reports involve hybrids with Black- capped Chickadee. A few Red-breasted Nuthatches lingered in both states, the last on 24 May in Sioux, lA QVD). A Rock Wren in Montgomery, lA 1 May (tDan Dorrance) fur- nished a rare spring report. Bewick’s Wrens An 11 April 2007 snowstorm grounded many longspurs in northern Iowa, including this male Smith's Longspur in Hamilton County. Photograph by Stephen]. Dinsmore. 450 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS IOWA & MISSOURI This male Lazuli Bunting graced a feeder 4 May 2007 at Martha Lahte Thomp- son Nature Sanctuary, Clay County, Missouri. Photograph byLmda Williams. had a good season, with more than usual re- ported in Missouri, including 4 from the n. part of the state, and two Iowa reports of sin- gles after 21 Apr at the usual Lee locale QG) and 9-14 May in Madison (Eugene & Eloise Armstrong, ph., m.ob.). A male Mountain Bluebird must have been a pleasant sight at Friendly Prairie C.A., Pettis, MO 21 Apr (TAdrian Andrei). The thrush flight was good in both states; counts of nocturnal migrants showed strong peaks on 7-8 May and 25-26 May in cen. Iowa, most of which were Swain- son’s (m.ob.). Wintering Varied Thrushes in Iowa lingered until 2 Mar at Mason City, Cer- ro Gordo (fide PH), 10 Mar near Seargent Bluff, Woodbury (POR), and 24 Mar at Sioux Center, Sioux OVD). WARBLERS THROUGH TANAGERS The warbler migration can best be summarized as average, with the primary fallout on 5-6 May in Iowa. A few early records occurred this spring, including an Orange-crowned 5 Apr in Polk, lA (tCarol L. Berrier), a Black-throated Green 23 Mar in Hillsboro, Jefferson, MO (tTom & Lynda Mills), 2 Yellow-throateds on 31 Mar at Lacey-Keosauqua S.P., Van Buren, lA (RLC), single Black-and- whites on 21 Mar in Barry, MO (Nancy Rochovansky) and 31 Mar at Lacey-Keosauqua S.R (RLC), a Worm-eat- ing 17 Apr in St. Louis (Nick Barber), and a Kentucky on 24 Apr Qohn W. Rutenbeck) and a Canada on 6 May (CRE, CJC) at Croton Unit, Shimek SF, Lee, lA. Cape May Warblers staged a below-average flight in Missouri, with nine reports 23 Apr-17 May; a strong Iowa flight included 21 reports 6-16 May. The sea- son’s lone Black-throated Blue Warbler was a male on 9 May at Smithville L., Clinton, MO (DW). Connecticut Warbler is always a good find, especially away from e. Iowa. This spring, there were 5 in Missouri in the period 11-24 May; a record-early arrival was seen 6 May at Cum- ming Wetlands, Wanm, lA (tJG). A few warblers appear to be ex- panding northwestward in the Region: Yellow-throated Warbler, Cerulean Warbler, Louisiana Wa- terthrush, and Kentucky and Hooded Warblers were all report- ed in small numbers from nw. Missouri or w. Iowa. Prairie War- blers made news in Iowa, with three reports: 4 May at Mason City, CeiTo Gordo (Harsha Jaya- wardena, ph.), 7-31 May and later at Pleasant Creek Recreation Area, Linn 0™ Forde, m.ob.), and 14 May at Geode S.R, Henty (tPHA, RIA, ph.). Two male Western Tanagers graced nw. Iowa: at Ruthven, Palo Alto 16 May (Linda Foerster, ph.) and at Oak Grove Park, Sioux 20 May (tSJD). TOWHEES THROUGH SISKINS Spotted Towhees made news with a good showing, especially in Iowa, where there were eight reports. Many were seen the first week of May; a male at Brown’s L., Wood- buiy, lA 16 May (POR) and a female 23-28 May at T.G.P (tJWE, m.ob.) were the lat- est. Two apparent Eastern Towhee x Spotted Towhee hybrids were reported in nw. Iowa in late May; ob- servers should carefully eliminate this possibility when reporting Spotted Towhees. Henslow’s Spar- rows, on the increase in the Region as a breeder, arrived early this year in St. Louis, MO 21 Mar (Ian Hunt) and at Lacey-Keosauqua S.R, Van Buren, lA 31 Mar (RLC). Smith’s Longspurs were well reported in both states, with a peak of 300 on 8 Mar at Rosecrans Airport, St. Joseph, Buchanan, MO (MBR) and 3 record-late individuals on 8 May in Kossuth, lA (MCK). The Iowa blizzard on 11 Apr grounded impressive numbers of longspurs, including 4650 Laplands in Wright and 110 Smith’s in Hamilton (SJD, ph.). Lazuli Buntings staged a mini-flight into nw. Missouri, with one in Clay 3-7 May (Ron Barry, TLinda Williams, ph., m.ob) and up to 4, including a hybrid, from 8-10 May at Fair- fax, Atchison (Evonne 6a: Wilbur Wright, tTR, ph., m.ob.). A male Painted Bunting re- turned to Brookside Park, Ames, Stoiy, lA 8 May and was regularly seen thereafter (tJB, m.ob.). A female Bullock’s Oriole at Galena, Stone 9 May (tDave Gagne) was an excellent find in Missouri. A wintering Baltimore Ori- ole lingered through 21 Mar at Cedar Hill, Jefferson, MO (tWally George), while an aberrant individual was photographed 9 May in Boone, lA (Barb Clay, Jim Moreland, ph.). Winter finch reports were pathetic: a lone Red Crossbill at Kansas City, Jackson, MO 2 Mar-12 Apr (Dick Dawson) and four Iowa reports of Common Redpolls 8 Mar-29 Apr were the only records of note. Corrigendum: The report of 10,005 Lesser Yellowlegs at S.C.N.W.R. 13 May 2006 (North American Birds 60: 382) is an error; the peak was 3213 there on 15 May (Frank Durbian). Contributors: IOWA: Reid 1. Allen (RIA), Pamela H. Allen (PHA), John Bissel! Qb). Aaron Brees (AB), Christopher J. Caster (CJC), Raymond L. Cummins (RLC), Stephen J. Dinsmore (SJD), Keith Dykstra (KDy), Chris R. Edwards (CRE), Steve Freed (SMF), Jay Gilliam QG), Paul Hertzel (PH), Matthew C. Kenne (MCK), Thomas H. Kent (THK), Nathan J. Miller (NJM), Bob Norris (BN), Loren J. Padelford (LJP), Barbara K. Padelford (BKP), Mark Proescholdt (MPr), Paul O. Roisen (POR), John Van Dyk (JVD). MIS- SOURI: Bruce Beck (BB), Joseph W. Fades QWE), Susan Hazelwood (SH), Steve Kinder (SK), Larry Lade (LL), James R Malone (JPM), Charlene Malone (CM), Mark B. Robbins (MBR), Tommie Rogers (TR), Dave Rogles (DR), Joshua P. Uffman OPU), Edge Wade (EW), Doug Willis (DW), Phil Wire (PW). (© Stephen J. Dinsmore, 571 1 Valley Road Ames, Iowa 50010, (cootjr@iastate.edu) This male Indigo Bunting x Lazuli Bunting hybrid photographed 9 May 2007 at Fair- fax, Atchison County was only the second report ever of this hybrid in Missouri. Pho- tograph by Tommie Rogers. VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 451 r I Tennessee & Kentucky A = Kentucky Dam B = Barkley Dam C= Kentucky Lake D = Barkley Lake E = Jonathan Creek Embayment F = Land Between the Lakes G = Blood River Embayment KENTUCKY Sauerheber Unit, \ r Matkiand Dam » ^^^if/^ed River Gorg^. Hendereon Bemheim Forest Boone) rheological Area \ Bemheim Forest mmolh M-,,. weNP ; •McElmyU _gwnsi_l^ ^ Big South ^Cumberland Gap NHP Fork NRA ' “ T^nessseNWR Duck River Unit F^s «_ Ensley Bottoms Pickwick Landing SP ^mShelby Bottoms Radnor Lake State Natural Area Sharp's Ridgem Kingston Steam Plant WR36 S. Holsron Lake Rankin Bottoms i Levee c^eniHoJ TENNESSEE Chris Sloan Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. The spring 2007 season was one of ex- treme temperature variation. Follow- ing a colder-than-average period in February, temperatures in March averaged above normal, largely due to a period of near- record-high temperatures during the latter two weeks that made the month the fifth warmest March on record at Louisville. How- ever, temperatures abruptly “went south” in early April, and a nearly two-week period of nearly record-cold temperatures from 4-15 April set spring back significantly. Emerging vegetation was significantly damaged, and it took several weeks for deciduous trees and shrubs to recover. As a result, returning sum- mer residents and migrants were confronted with very unusual conditions. Temperatures during May subsequently returned to above normal. Precipitation was below average for the three-month period, with March and May being the driest months and southern por- tions of the Region suffering from lack of rainfall more than the northern portions. The loss of early season food due to the April freeze was likely at least partly responsible for an unprecedented showing of several species at feeding stations, including Rose-breasted Grosbeaks, Blue Grosbeaks, and Indigo Buntings. Rarity highlights included Great White Heron, Roseate Spoonbill, Glossy Ibis, Yellow Rail, Hudsonian Godwit, Ruff, Little Gull, Iceland Gull, Painted Bunting, and con- tinuing Spotted Towhee, Scott’s Oriole, and Common Redpoll. Abbreviations: Ensley (Ensley Bottoms, in- cluding the EARTH Complex, sw. Shelby, TN); Kentucky Dam (n. end of Kentucky L., Livingston/Marshall, KY); Radnor (Radnor Lake State Natural Area, Davidson, TN); Sauerheber (Sauerheber Unit Sloughs W.M.A., Henderson, KY); S. Holston L. (Sulli- van, TN); Standifer Gap (Standifer Gap Marsh, Hamilton, TN). WATERFOWL THROUGH FALCONS Waterfowl migration was relatively unspectacular across the Region. At least 4 Greater White-fronted Geese lingered into mid-May at three e. Tennessee locations. A sampling of additional late waterfowl reports in- cluded a Tundra Swan in Hawkins, TN 21 Apr-11 May (SHu) that may represent a new late date for the state; a male Gadwall at Standifer Gap through the period (fide KCa); a male Northern Shoveler in Ballard, KY 23 May (BPa); 3 Lesser Scaup on Douglas L., Sevier, TN 29 May (MS); a Canvasback in Anderson, TN 15 May (AT); a male Redhead in Pulaski, KY 31 May (RD); a male Bufflehead on Kentucky L., Marshall, KY through 31 May (m.ob.); a male Common Goldeneye in w. Ful- ton, KY through at least 24 May (BPa); and a female Red-breast- ed Merganser on the Ohio R. at Louisville 16 May (BPa). A fe- male Blue-winged Teal at Ensley 19 May was on a nest with 9 eggs (JRW). There were several reports of Surf Scoter: one in Muhlenberg, KY 1 Mar (RD)-3 Mar (BY, MY); 6 at Booker T. Washington S.P., Chickamauga L., Hamilton, TN 19 Mar (KCa); a female at S. Holston L. 29 Mar-16 Apr (RK, m.ob.); 10+ on Kentucky L. above the dam 30 Mar (DR), with at least 9 there 31 Mar (BY, MY, BPa); and a male in Greenup, KY 21 Apr (ph. RSe). Lingering White-winged Scoters includ- ed 4 below Chickamauga Dam, Hamilton, TN 1 Mar (ph. DS) and one on the Ohio R. at Louisville 2 Mar (DA). In Kentucky, female Hooded Mergansers with young were observed in Ohio (DR), Boone (LM), Jefferson (two broods),, and Henderson, (three locations) (BPa, CC). A hen with 6 young in White, TN 19 May (SJS, DD) furnished the 4th breeding record for the county. The only Red-throated Loons reported were one on Kentucky L., Marshall, KY 30 Mar (DR) and one on S. Hol- ston L. 16-17 Apr (RK, m.ob.). There were three reports of single Eared Grebes in Kentucky: in Muhlenberg 10 Mar (BY et ah); above Kentucky Dam 21 Mar (tBPa, KH); and on L. Barkley, Trigg 30 Mar (DR). In Tennessee, 4 were at Douglas L., Se- vier 13 Mar (MS), and 6 were at Ft. Loudoun L., Loudoun 29 Mar (SHo); wintering Eared Grebes at S. Holston L. remained through 7 Apr (RC). Two Western Grebes were present on Kentucky L. 'above the dam 28 Mar-18 Apr (vt. DR et al); 2 continued at Pace Point, Big Sandy Unit, Tennessee N.W.R., Henry, TN through 7 Mar (ph. MT). Northbound Double-crested Cormorants peaked in late Mar at 15,000 (a new state high count) on L. Barkley, Lyon/Trigg, KY 30 Mar (DR). Three male Anhingas seen soaring over Fulton, KY 7 May (ph. DR) represented an early arrival date for the state and the first record of more than one individual since 1950. One was at Hatchie N.W.R., Haywood, TN 17 May (DPr). One to 3 American Bitterns were reported on eight occasions at five loca- tions in Kentucky 9 Apr- 17 May and on nine occasions at four locations in Tennessee 20 Mar-28 Apr. Single Least Bitterns were heard calling at five locations in Kentucky and one location in Tennessee 29 Apr-24 May. Multi- ple Least Bitterns were at Standifer Gap 30 Apr+ (KCa, JE, DPa), and four nests with eggs were found there 29 May (DPa). A Great White Heron continued in Blount,, TN through 27 Mar (WB). The expansion of nest- ing Great Blue Herons continues in Kentucky with new colonies located in Elliott (SF), Cal- loway (HC), and Jefferson (DC) during the pe- riod. A new nesting site for Great Egrets was located in Muhlenberg, KY in late Apr (DR, KOS). There was a notable flurry of reports of These two Western Grebes (here 7 March 2007) at Pace Point, Big Sandy Unit, Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge, Henry County, Tennessee were holdovers from the winter season and may have been the same two present at the same location the previous winter. Photograph by Mike Todd. These three male Anhingas were seen flying northward over Fulton County, Kentucky 7 May 2007. The record represents the first since 1 9S0 of more than one bird in the state. The species is not known to breed north of this location. Photograph by David Romer. 452 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS TENNESSEE & KENTUCKY At least three Glossy Ibis put in appearances in Kentucky in spring 2007; this individual was found in Fulton County 3 May. Photograph by Dmid Roemer. Glossy Ibis in Kentucky, involving at least 3 ads. and including 2 different birds at Sauer- heber 18 Apr (MM)-6 May (ph. DR et al.) and one at the Long Point Unit, Reelfoot N.W.R., Fulton 3 May (ph. DR); in Tennessee, 2 were at Douglas L., Sevier 7-10 May (ph. MS). Two Roseate Spoonbills were reported from Shel- by Forest, Shelby, TN 9 May (DPr, MTOS). Two Mississippi Kites in Fulton 26 Apr (BPa) established a new early arrival date for Kentucky. There were a number of reports of w. forms of Red-tailed Hawk, especially dur- ing the Mar migratory period for the species (DR, BPa, AS); an ad. light-morph calurus in Webster 8 Mar (AS) was a county first. A Red- tailed Hawk banded at French R., MN in Oct 1991 as a hatch-year bird was recovered in Muhlenberg, KY 13 Mar, making it nearly 16 years old (SR, fide AS). A Rough-legged Hawk in Nashville 3 Mar (RC) was a surprise. Juv. Golden Eagles were reported in Madison, KY 11 Mar (SM, RBr) and Ohio, KY 8 Apr (ph. DR). Six Merlins were reported 11 Mar-5 May across the Region. As of mid-May, eight of nine known nesting pairs of Peregrine Fal- cons along the Ohio R., KY had active nests (SV, AS, BV). Two ads. were at the traditional nesting site on the railroad trestle below Chickamauga Dam, Hamilton, TN through the period, and a chick was present 30 May (fide KCa). In Kentucky, there were also 14 re- ports of migrants 18 Mar-5 May. RAILS THROUGH TERNS At least one and possibly 2 Yellow Rails were observed during a prescribed burn of a native grass planting in ne. Crittenden, KY 23 Mar (tBM). The only King Rail in Kentucky was one at Sauerheber 10 Apr (BPa). One to 7 Vir- ginia Rails were encountered at four Ken- tucky and five Tennessee locales 10 Mar-4 May; as many as 4 were at Standifer Gap through the period, but no nests were found this season. Three imm. Virginia Rails and an imm. Sora at the Wal-Mart Distribu- tion Center, Greeneville, Greene, TN 29 May (DMi) sug- gested that both species nested there. A tally of at least 65 Soras at Sauerheber 21 Apr (DR, KOS) established a new high count for Kentucky. In Kentucky, Com- mon Moorhens were reported only from traditional breeding locales in Henderson (DR, CC et al.) and Union (BPa); in Ten- nessee, the lone report was of a single bird in Hawkins, TN 17- 18 May (DK et al), a rarity for e. Tennessee. In Kentucky, shorebird migration was quite respectable, with significant numbers and di- versity noted mostly in the w. portion of the state; Tennessee observers reported a below- average migration. A few early shorebirds in- cluded an American Golden-Plover in s. V/ar- rm, KY 3 Mar (DR); 2 Greater Yellowlegs in w. Fulton, KY 3 Mar (BY, MY); and a Solitary Sandpiper on Kentucky L., Marshall 26 Mar (BH). Tallies of 1200 Lesser Yellowlegs in Dyer, TN 17 Apr (MT), 78 White-rumped Sandpipers at Ensley 10 May QRW), 4800+ Pectoral Sandpipers at Ensley 14 Apr QRW, EC), and 650+ Semipalmated Sandpipers in w. Henderson, KY 23 May (BPa) represented noteworthy high counts. A count of 110 Semipalmated Plovers in Jefferson, KY 15 May (BPa) established a new high count for the Louisville area. There were two reports of Pip- ing Plover in Kentucky: one in Jefferson 27 Apr (LM, ph. BPa et al.) and one in Union 1 May (ph. BPa). One to 4 Black-necked Stilts were reported at six sites in w. Kentucky 18 Apr-23 May. There were three reports of American Avo- cets: 9 at Kentucky Dam 24 Apr (KA, ph. BPa); 8 at Radnor 1 May QS, KB, BB); and one on L. Barkley, Lyon, KY 3 May (ph. BPa). It was an excellent spring for Willets, with one to 60+ reported at 11 locales on 17 occasions 24 Apr- 15 May. There were only two reports of Upland Sandpiper in Kentucky: one in Warren 18 Apr (ph. BPa) and one in Calloway 9 May (KCo); in Tennessee, one was in An- derson 16 Apr (AT), one was at Standifer Gap 1 May (CFe, LW), and 12 were at Ensley 8 Apr ORW), with 5 there 21 Apr (JRW). A Hudsonian Godwit at Ensley 31 Mar-1 Apr (JRW) and 2 females in w. Henderson, KY 25 Apr (ph. BPa) provided exceptional spring re- ports for the Region. A flock of 37 Marbled Godwits at Kentucky Dam 19 Apr (ph. BPa) included an individual that had been banded in coastal Georgia; the flock represented a new state high count for the species. One to 6 Ruddy Turnstones were found at four locales in Kentucky 12-16 May (MA, BPa). Sander- lings are a good find in the Region in spring, and there were three reports: 4 in Union, KY 15 May (BPa), and 5 on L. Barkley, Lyon, and 10 at Kentucky Dam, both 16 May (ph. BPa). A Western Sandpiper on Kentucky L., Mar- shall 15 Mar (BH) was ei- ther an overwintering bird or early migrant. A White- rumped Sandpiper in w. Henderson, KY 19 Apr (BPa) established a new early ar- rival date for the state. There were four reports of Baird’s Sandpiper in Ken- tucky: singles in different parts of w. Henderson 19 Apr (BPa), 30 Apr (ph. DR), and 1 May (BPa), plus one in w. Fulton 1 May (HC, ME). In Tennessee, 4 were at Ensley 31 Mar QRW), with 2 there 14 Apr QRYV, EC), 4 there 21 Apr QRW, MT), and singles there 24 Apr and 2 May QRW). A molting Ruff was in Lake, TN 27 Apr-1 May (ph. MT et al.) A Red-necked Phalarope in w. Henderson, KY 23 May (ph. BPa) was the only one reported in the Region. One to 3 Laughing Gulls were reported at four Kentucky locales 3-18 May; a Laughing Gull, presumably the same bird, was reported from several locations in Sullivan and Hawkins, TN 16 May-5 Jun (RC, RPh, SHu). The only Franklin’s Gull reported in Kentucky was an ad. on L. Barkley, Lyon 31 Mar (BPa, BY, MY). An ad. Little Gull was present on L. This female Hudsonian Godwit was one of two found in western Henderson County, Kentucky 25 April 2007. Photograph by Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr.. 453 VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 TENNESSEE & KENTUCKY These Marbled Godwits were part of a flock of 37 at Kentucky Dam, Marshall County, Kentucky 1 9 April 2007; the flock repre- sented a new state high count. A green band on the leg of one bird indicated that it had been banded on the coast of Geor- gia. Photograph by Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. Barkley, Lyon. KY 31 Mar-13 Apr (BY, MY, tBPa et al.). Approximately 1500 Bonaparte’s Gulls were still on L. Barkley Lyon. KY 30 Mar (DR); a first-cycle bird lingered at Ken- tucky Dam tlirough 10 May (KCo). A few Herring Gulls lingered at scattered locales into the 3rd week of May in Kentucky The Region’s only Thayer’s Gull was a first-cycle bird at Kentucky Dam 28 & 31 Mar (ph. DR; tBPa, BY, MY). A first- or second-cycle Iceland Gull was present on L. Barkley, Lyon. KY 28 Mar (vt. DR). Three Lesser Black-backed Gulls were reported in Kentucky: an ad. on Kentucky L., Cal- loway 26 Mar (BH); an ad. on L. Barkley, Trigg 30 Mar (ph. DR); and a first-cycle bird on L. Barkley Lyon 26 Apr (tBPa). Terns made an uninspiring showing across the Region during spring migration. The only report of Black Tern in Kentucky was of 2 above Kentucky Dam 17 May (BPa). Com- mon Terns were scarcely noted, with one to 2 reported from three Kentucky locales 11-17 May of Barn Owl in Kentucky: one in Pulaski (RD); one at a previous year’s nest site in Hen- ry 4 Apr (BPa); a family of 5 young in Flem- This Ruff was present in Lake County, Tennessee 27 April (here) through 1 May 2007. The species has been of nearly annual occurrence in the Tennessee & Ken tucky region during the past decade. Photograph by Mike Todd. CUCKOOS THROUGH FINCHES Black-billed Cuckoos put in an excellent showing this season: singles were reported from 10 Kentucky and seven Tennessee lo- eales 21 Apr-25 May. There were four reports ing 1 May (SF); and 4, including young, in e. Calloway 12 May (HC). Three Long-eared Owls lingered in Muhlenberg. KY through 20 Mar (BPa); 4 were discovered in a yard in ne. Boyle, KY in early Mar and lingered there through 21 Mar, with the one last observed 23 Mar (KS). Short-eared Owls lingered in Muh- lenberg and Ohio, KY into early Mar. Single ■Whip-poor-wills in Carter, TN 25 Mar (B&JP) and Lewis, TN 27 Mar (BPu), and a Chuck-will’s-widow in Jackson, TN 17 Apr O&NL), were unusually early. A Yellow-bel- lied Sapsucker in Knox. TN 10 May (CW) was late. A female Rufous Hummingbird that win- tered at Louisville, KY was last observed 18 Mar (MC). One to 2 Olive-sided Flycatchers were re- ported at six Kentucky and two Tennessee lo- cales 6-19 May, representing a below-average showing, especially in Tennessee. Yellow-bel- lied Flycatchers put in an average showing in Kentucky, with small numbers reported 8-12 May. One to 3 Alder Flycatchers at eight lo- cales 3-23 May was a relatively typical show- ing for Kentucky; likewise 3 at three locations 11-26 May in Tennessee (away from estab- lished breeding areas) was normal. A Willow Flycatcher in Calloway, KY 1 May (HC) es- tablished a new early arrival date for the state. As many as 4 Western Kingbirds were present in Shelby, TN, where the species is now an an- nual breeder, by 12 May ORW). Scissor-tailed Flycatchers returned to traditional nesting territories in Lyon and Livingston, KY and Shelby, TN; a male at the first site 2 Apr (PN, DR) established a new early arrival date for Kentucky. Two Western Kingbird x Scissor- tailed Flycatcher hybrids — both females, and likely fledged from previous years in the vicinity — were paired with West- ern Kingbirds in Shelby, TN 27 May ORW). Common Ravens continue to be re- ported in Sullivan and Washington, TN away from the mts.; a nest with 5 young was found in Unicoi, TN 26 Apr (RK). Several reports of vireos tied or established new arrival dates for Ken- tucky; these included White-eyeds in Lyon 30 (DR) & 31 Mar (BY, MY, BPa); Yellow-throateds in Trigg 30 Mar (DR) and Calloway 2 Apr (ME); and a Red- eyed in Madison 31 Mar (SM, RBr). A Bell’s "Vireo in Calloway, KY 12 May (fide HC) and one at Ensley 26-27 May QRW) were away from known breed- ing areas. Swallows seem to arrive ear- lier each spring, and this year was no exception, with a Northern Rough- winged Swallow and a Barn Swallow in Memphis, TN 11 Mar QRW) and 2 Bank Swallows at Brainerd Levee, Hamilton, TN 15 Apr (CB, KCa, GB, DJ). Eollowing a poor winter showing across the Region, only a few Red-breasted Nuthatches were reported during spring, with the latest being one in Madison, KY 28 Apr (TH et ah). 454 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS TENNESSEE & KENTUCKY This Red-necked Phaiarope was present in western Henderson County, Kentucky 23 May 2007. Photograph by Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. The near-record cold snap of early Apr caused an unprecedented burning back of deciduous vege- tation across most of the Region. The effects of the freez- ing weather were exacerbated by the fact that about two weeks of near-record warmth had preceded the cold snap; this warm spell had resulted in new leaves and flowers of deciduous trees and shrubs emerging well ahead of schedule, making them especially vulnerable to the cold temperatures, in the ne. portion of the Region, many trees had not yet broken winter dormancy, so other than being delayed by a few of weeks, emergence of leaves was relatively normal there. In a majority of the Region, however, the effect on forest trees was quite re- markable. Most sat lifeless in shades of brown and black for a period of nearly two weeks while vascular systems recovered and new lateral buds formed. When they did emerge again, however, most did not reflower, which re- sulted in the absence of many spring flowers and fruits on trees such as elms, maples, oaks, and hickories that are likely used heavily by migrant cardinalids. The result of the dearth of this food source had to have been at least partially responsible for an unprecedented showing of Rose-breasted Grosbeaks at feeders during the last week of Apr and the first 1 0 days of May. Dozens of reports came in from all across the affected area. Some observers reported 50 or more individuals at feeding sta- tions in early May. Most birds disappeared by mid-May, but a few hung on until late in the month, with latest re- ports involving individuals in Henderson, KY (CC) and Ken- ton, KY (MAB, fide LM) 31 May. Although Rose-breasted Grosbeaks were the most conspicuous feeder birds re- ported, significant numbers of Indigo Buntings and Blue Grosbeaks were also involved in the event. After not being reported at all in Kentucky in 2006, a singing Bewick’s Wren was en- countered on a B.B.S. route nw. of Beech- wood, Owen 28 May (LM). Marsh Wrens were relatively scarce this spring, and, somewhat remarkably, only a single Sedge Wren — and a probable holdover from winter at that — was reported in the Region in Marshall, TN 18 Mar (DMo). Eastern Bluebird numbers were notably low in open farmland of the Bluegrass region of n.-cen. Kentucky during the spring season, most likely the result of the effects of the Feb cold snap. There were several reports of dead bluebirds being found in nest boxes (m.ob.) and simply out on the open ground QL) in this region. An American Pipit in Jef- ferson, KY 15 May (BPa) was rather late. Several observers noted below-average numbers of both transient and breeding war- blers, a possible after-effect of the late freeze described above. A sampling of record-match- ing/record-setting early arrivals of warblers in Kentucky included Blue- winged in Trigg 2 Apr (BL); Nashville in Jefferson 9 Apr (JBe, PB); and Louisiana Waterthrush in Pulaski 14 Mar (RD). In Tennessee, a Blue-winged in Lewis 1 Apr (BPu), 2 Ovenbirds in Putnam 4 Apr (RSi, BHS), and a Prairie in Lewis 5 Apr (BPu) were unusually early. It was an excellent spring for Cape May Warblers, with nu- merous reports and several comments concerning overall abundance; an es- pecially remarkable con- centration of no fewer than 30 and possibly as many as 50 birds frequented a single large spruce tree at Frankfort, Franklin, KY during the first week of May (AS, BSm, SV et al.). A female Black- throated Blue Warbler in Trigg, KY 20 Apr (HC, JH) and single males in Hen- ry, TN 23 Apr (MT), at Craven’s House, Hamilton, TN 30 Apr (KCa, JE, CB), at Radnor 7 May (FF, JS, KB), and in Putnam, TN 12 May (|M) were w. of their regular migration and breeding areas. Transient Cerulean Warblers were reported in exceptional numbers from Hamilton, TN, with one to 4 reported on seven occasions 12 Apr-5 May. Swainson’s Warblers singing in Hamil- ton, TN 17 Apr (BPu) and 11-20 May(BW et al.) and in s. Boyle, KY 21 & 23 May (MH) were not near known breeding locales. The only reports of Con- necticut Warbler in Ken- tucky were one in Jefferson 11 May (BPa) and 2 in n. Warren 15 May (DR); in Tennessee, one to 3 were reported on seven dates at five locales 9-23 May. Single Mourn- ing Warblers at nearly a dozen locations in Kentucky 8-19 May was a normal showing; reports were slightly down in Tennessee, with only 4 reported 28 Apr-20 May. The wintering male Spotted Towhee in ne. Hart, KY was last observed 15 Apr (CFr). A Vesper Sparrow that lingered in w. Henderson, KY through 6 May (DR) may have been on territory. A White-throated Sparrow lingered in a Madison, KY yard through 31 May (TH). A Bachman’s Sparrow in Montgomery, TN 30 Apr (DMo) was the only one reported in the Region. Early Henslow’s Sparrows were re- ported at Yanahli W.M.A., Maiiiy, TN 10 Mar (TE) and Marshall, TN 26 Mar (DMo); 2 in Putnam, TN 12 May (BHS) established a first county record. Two Painted Buntings, a male and a green bird, were reported in a yard near Bethlehem, e.-cen. Henry, KY 12 May (tML, EL); the species is quite rare in the state. Mi- grant Bobolinks were not numerous in Ken- tucky. A new nesting locale was reported just w. of Harrodsburg, Mercer during the latter half of May (KD, GD et al.); at least 8 territo- rial males were present, and a female was on a nest containing 5 eggs there 28 May (GD). One to 4 Brewer’s Blackbirds at hve Kentucky locales 1 Mar-21 Apr was a relatively typical showing for spring. Five Western Mead- owlarks were at Ensley 10 Mar QRW). The wintering imm. female Scott’s Oriole in Franklin, KY lingered through 23 Apr (F&DS et al). An Orchard Oriole in Lake, TN 25 Mar (NM) was unusually early. Following a dismal winter for Purple Finches and Pine Siskins, a few migrants were reported at scattered locales from mid-Mar through mid-Apr (m.ob.); a relatively tardy This first- or second-cycle Iceland Gull was present on lake Barkley, Lyon County, Ken- tucky 28 March 2007. Video capture by David Roemer. VOlUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 455 TENNESSEE & KENTUCKY siskin was reported from Black Mt., Harlan, KY 21 May (DR). A Pine Siskin nest with an egg on Roan Mt., Carter, TN 5-19 May (AT, RBi, NS) established the first nesting record in the state, although nesting has been assumed for many years. The Common Redpoll in Lewis, TN lingered through 9 Mar (BPu). Cited contributors (subregional editors in boldface): Ken Allen, Michael Autin, David Ayer, Mary Ann Barnett, Brian Becker, Jane Bell O^e), Pat Bell, Warren Bielenberg, Rob Biller (RBi), Clyde Blum, Kevin Bowden, Gary Brunvoll, Rhonda Bryant (RBr), Kevin Cal- hoon (KCa) (se. Tennessee), Phillip Casteel (middle Tennessee), Hap Chambers, Doug Chin, Mary Cleary, Kathy Cohen (KCo), Ed Conrad, Charlie Crawford, Rack Cross, Roseanna Denton, Gary Dorman, Kurt Dor- man, Douglas Downs, Jim Eager, Melissa Easley, Tommy Edwards, Carol Eegarido (CFe), Frank Fekel, Scott Freidhof, Carol Friedman (CFr), Michael Hamm, Barry Hart, Keith Hawkins, Tim Houghton, Jenny Howard, Susan Hoyle (SHo), Susan Hubley (SHu), Daniel Jacobson, Kentucky Ornitho- logical Society (KOS), David Kirschke, Rick Knight (e. Tennessee), Eugene Lacefield, Joe Lacefield, James & Nancy Layzer, Bill Lisowsky, Margaret Lowe, Bill Mahan, Scott Marsh, Joseph Mast, Lee McNeely, Memphis Chapter of the Tennessee Ornithological Soci- ety (MTOS), Don Miller (DMi), Nancy Moore, Mike Morton, Daniel Moss (DMo), Phyllis Niemi, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. (BPa), David Patterson (DPa), W. Rob Peeples (w. Ten- nessee), Rick Phillips (RPh), Brookie & Jean Potter, Dick Preston (DPr), Bill Pulliam (BPu), David Roemer, Stony Rolley, Dick Schier, Nora Schubert, Rick Seelhorst (RSe), Kirtley Settles, Jan Shaw, Richard Simmers (RSi), Michael Sledjeski, Fran and David Slezak (F&DS), Adam Smith, Brian Smith (BSm), Barbara H. Stedman (BHS), Stephen J. Stedman, Mike Todd, Allan Trently, Budd Veverka, Shawchyi Vorisek, Betty Wampler, Chris Welsh, Jeff R. Wilson, Libby Wolfe, Ben Yandell, Mary Yan- dell. Many thanks go to the numerous addi- tional individuals who contributed informa- tion that was used in this report. O Chris Sloan, 224 Hicks Road Nashville, Tennessee 37221, (chris.sloan@comcast.net) Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr. Kentucky State Nature Preserves Commission 801 Schenkel Lane, Frankfort, Kentucky 40601 (brainard.palmer-ball@ky.gov) |Aldbama& Mississippi Florence I'Vheefer The general weather pattern over the Re- gion during spring 2007 would best be described as warm and dry: tempera- tures averaged 3-6° C above normal, and rain- fall totaled only 40 per cent of the normal amount. A vivid reminder that circumstances could be much worse came in the form of fre- quent, irritating smoke swept into our Region from widespread brush fires in Georgia and Florida. Despite all the heat, probably the most memorable weather event of the season was a cold one! Passage of a strong front 4 April allowed a large Arctic air mass to drift southward, almost reaching the latitude of Birmingham, Alabama and Starkeville, Mis- sissippi. A hard freeze followed on the nights of 7-8 April, with the mercury dipping around 14° C below normal. All-time record lows were set across the Region, and early spring vegetation and planted crops suffered mighti- ly. The full extent of the damage was perhaps best seen in early May, when many forest canopies normally dressed in bright, spring green looked as though a defoliant spray had been applied. “Excellent” migrant numbers were noted at many coastal locations 10-11 April, as a strong low-pressure system moved rapidly eastward, causing widespread rain and storms. Weaker fronts on 19 and 26 April pro- duced more local events, although the latter did create classic fallout conditions at Fort Morgan, Alabama. Here, only a few coastal veterans had done their homework and wit- nessed a “dizzying” number of warblers. The Duncans ended the day with 49 Neotropical migrant land bird species, their highest ever! Proving once again that the birding action up north may rival the coast, the Wheeler Na- tional Wildlife Refuge spring count 28 April compiled impressive totals for both residents and migrants. Twenty-seven species had their previous Tennessee Valley spring or all-time record counts broken, and the 1076 Indigo Buntings amassed set a new Alabama one-day maximum. A sprinkling of rarities across the season included an inland American Oyster- catcher, one or two Black Swifts, and the ap- pearance of the largest Cave Swallow flock ever recorded in the Region. I would like to take a moment to recognize the valuable, long-term contributions made by Robert and Lucy Duncan to the bird knowledge of our Region and to this publica- tion in particular. 1 only hope to wisely use what they have taught me as I assume this role. We all look forward to hearing of their future travel and birding adventures and shar- ing those we can. Abbreviations: Coldwater R. (Coldwater Riv- er N.W.R., Quitman/Tallahatchie, MS); Dauphin I. (Mobile, AL); FM.N.H. (Florida Museum of Natural History, University of Florida, Gainesville); Ft. Morgan (Baldwin, AL); Noxubee (Noxubee N.W.R., Oktibbe- ha/Winston, MS); Wheeler (Wheeler N.W.R., Limestone/Morgan, AL). WATERFOWL THROUGH STORKS The 2 Black-bellied Whistling-Ducks discov- ered at Dauphin I. 1 May provided Alabama’s 4th record but only lingered for one day (BCG, ph. DD, m.ob.). A single bird 28 May furnished the 5th state record when it ap- peared much farther n. in Etowah, AL and stayed a few days (ph. EG). A Ross’s Goose ob- served at Coldwater R. 7 Apr was quite late (G&SK). Also rather tardy was a Green- winged Teal found at Eufaula N.W.R., Barbour, AL 29 Apr (LW); a male Greater Scaup was tardy in Limestone, AL 15 Apr (GDJ, DGJ). By May, scoters have typically disappeared from our Region, and finding all three species on any day of the year is no mean feat. The ob- 456 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS ALABAMA & MISSISSIPPI These two Black-bellied Whistling-Ducks discovered 1 May 2007 (here) were a one-day wonder on Dauphin Island, Mobile County. They provided only the fourth documented Alabama record for this expanding species and the first on the coast. All previously ac- cepted records were from the Tennessee Valley. Photograph by David Dortch. server on a boat trip near Isle aux Herbes and Cat 1., s. of mainland Mobile, AL, was therefore very surprised to find a male Surf (ph.), a White-winged, and a female Black Scoter, along with 6 unidentified scoters 17 May (RC). A late male Black Scoter in Oktibbeha, MS 8 May was a rare inland find (MS, TLS). A female Red-breasted Merganser at Dauphin I. 30 May QFP) was quite late. Pacific Loons are regular but still rare finds for our Region, making two early spring reports noteworthy. The first was in the surf at Ft. Morgan 3 Mar (LFG) and the other inland at Bay Springs Lake, Tishomingo, MS 2 Mar (tWP). Good numbers of Anhinga were reported from two inland loca- tions. Up to 8 were present 26 Apr-2 May near Columbus, Lowndes, MS (MS, TLS, D&JP), and up to 3 were seen 29 Apr-20 May in Shelby, AL (AH). American Bittern is rarely de- tected inland, making the observation of up to 4 at Coldwater R. 7-21 Apr unusual (G&SK). Careful exploration of a rookery near Picayune, Pearl Riv- er, MS 19 May reformed since Hurri- cane Katrina revealed 75-80 pairs of Cattle Egret, 60-70 pairs of Little Blue Heron, 50-60 pairs of White Ibis, 8-10 pairs of Snowy Egret, and 7-8 Anhingas. All but the last were on nests (NB, GF). Roseate Spoonbills are always rare treats whenever they wander into our Re- gion. The imm. noted 30 Apr at the Gulf Shores W.T.P., Baldwin, AL furnished only a 3rd state spring record (ph. MF). Wood Storks are also rarely found in spring, so 3 at Noxubee 22 May QB) and an imm. the same day near Conecuh N.E, Covington, AL (ph. MB) were noteworthy. RAPTORS THROUGH SHOREBtRDS Impressive mid-spring counts for Swallow-tailed Kite were compiled 1 May in Pearl River, MS, with 5 on a roost near an old nesting area (JO&TDC) and 9 ap- parently late migrants 17 May moving straight north- ward into the wind over Waveland, Hancock, MS (NB). Golden Eagles are rarely seen in spring, so two Mississippi observations were noteworthy. The first was an imm. 5 Apr at Nox- ubee (TLS), surpassing the previous late area record by 42 days. The other was even later and rarer on the coast 3 May at Ansley, Han- cock, where only a few previous county records exist (NB). The Yellow Rail seen 16 & 21 Apr at the Dauphin 1. airport provided only the 3rd spring and 18th Alabama record (]LT, DC, BKF). Late Sandhill Cranes were observed at two locations. On 18 Apr, a single crane, furnishing a potential first Lee, MS record, was seen near Shannon Hwy. 45 (WP). Much later in the season, a calling crane seen 16 May in flight over the Dauphin 1. airport provided a very late Alabama record of a locally rare species (BH, BS, AL). While it is not unusual to find multiple Semipalmated Plovers during spring migra- tion, a count of 82 at Coldwater R. 21 Apr was quite high (G&SK). The discovery by fisher- men of an American Oystercatcher 24 May on rocks in the Tennessee R. near Sheffield, Col- bert, AL was astounding for this strictly coastal species (ph. SH, RM). Not only did the one- day appearance around 550 km from the Gulf of Mexico furnish the first inland Alabama record (and unconnected to passage of a trop- ical weather system), but it apparently provid- ed one of only a few documented records ever for inland North America! Although it is not unusual to find American Avocets along the Alabama Gulf Coast, the flock of 55 seen 30 Apr from the Mobile Bay ferry, Mobile/Baldwin was a very good high count (PEL). Willet is a regular late-spring migrant through our Re- gion; however, some surprisingly high counts were reported this season. The champion and new spring maximum for Alabama was the to- tal of 153 seen on Pelican 1. and nearby Dauphin 1. 23 Apr (GDJ, DGJ). Rarer inland, 7 were found 29 Apr at Eufaula S.P, Barbour, AL (LW); a total of 33 was counted 4 May at Wa- terloo and Wilson Dam, Lauderdale, AL (SWM, DJS, JTG); and 3 were dis- covered 6 May at Bay Springs L., Tishomingo, MS (G&SK). A migrant Whimbrel flock was recorded for the 3rd consecutive spring 18-23 Apr on a farm field s. of Grand Bay, Mobile, AL (RA&LBR, ph. BSu, m.ob.). This season a count of 100+ individuals 21 Apr established a new Alabama maximum. It could not be ascertained whether a flock of 41 Whimbrels seen 17 May at nearby Barton L, Mobile was part of the Grand Bay flock or was staging at a previously unknown location (RC). A lone Whimbrel 9-11 May at Speigner, Elmore provided only the 2nd spring Alabama record and the 16th inland state observation ever (ph. TRP). Marbled Godwits appeared at two lo- cations this spring to furnish the 18th and 19th Alabama inland records. Five were discovered 11 Apr, with many other migrant shorebirds at Town Creek Marsh, Colbert (ph. DJS). Later in the season, one was seen 4 May traveling with a flock of 25 Willets at Waterloo, Lauderdale (SWM, DJS, JTG). Buff-breasted Sandpiper is a rarely found Regional spring migrant, so 5 at a turf farm near Oxford, Lafayette, MS 1 1 Apr were unexpected (G&SK). A very im- This Black-bellied Whistlitig-Dyck was observed 28 May 2007 and later (here 2 June) along the banks of the Coosa River near Southside, Etowah County. It fur- nished a fifth documented Alabama record. Photograph by Esther Guenther. VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 457 ALABAMA & MISSISSIPPI This American Oystercatcher on rocks in the Tennessee River near Sheffield was documented 24 May 2007 by two alert fishermen. This Colbert County location — 550 km from the Gulf of Mexico — was amazing for this strictly coastal species and represents not only the first inland Alabama record but also one of only a few doc- umented in interior North America. Photograph by Steve Hacker. pressive number of Long-billed Dowitchers was documented 17 Mar when 2200 were tal- lied at Coldwater R. (G6s:SK). A female Ruff made a brief appearance 11 Apr at Town Creek Marsh, Colbert, furnishing a 7tli Ala- bama record (tDJS). GULLS THROUGH PIPITS Lesser Black-backed Gull sightings continue to become more expected; however, spring records are still only occasional, making two reports from Ft. Morgan interesting. A hrst- cycle bird was found 22 Apr (ph. GDJ, DGJ), and three weeks later a third-cycle individual was described at the same location (BH, BS, AL). Caspian Terns are regular spring mi- grants through our Region; however, the 133 found 16 Apr at Town Creek, Colbert estab- lished a new inland maximum for Alabama (DJS). White -winged Doves are rarely found away from the Alabama coast, making the ob- servations of lone birds 17 Apr and 29 May near Valley, Chambers quite interesting (R&JMc). A late morning squall line at Ft. Morgan 26 Apr resulted in an impressive af- ternoon migrant fallout: at least 150 Yellow- billed and 3 Black-billed Cuckoos arrived at one point, impressive counts of both species (LRD, ILAD). Another Black-billed Cuckoo heard 6 May at St. Florian, Lauderdale, AL was a rare inland hnd (DJS). A Chuck-wills-wid- ow seen 4 Mar at Ft. Morgan was quite early for a migrant and may have been a wintering bird (MJJ). Another calling 2 Apr at Birming- ham, Jefferson was dehnitely early for the Mountain Region of Alabama (RSH). A bird described as a Black Swift 11-12 Apr at Ft. Morgan would represent a first state record, if accepted by the Ala- bama B.R.C. The bird ap- peared as a front approached the coast from the w. and strong southeasterly winds swept through the area (tLRD, TMT, tCH, tMR et al.). Another Black Swift was reported 11 Apr over nearby Dauphin L, at about the same time of day the Ft. Morgan bird was also being observed (tPB). The male Black- chinned Hummingbird ob- served 4 Apr at the Shell Mounds on Dauphin 1. pro- vided one of only a few non- banding records for the species (BL). The singing Wil- low Flycatcher at Ansley, Han- cock 5 May was a first for spring in coastal Mississippi (NB). A Western Kingbird at the Tuscaloosa Airport, Tuscaloosa 5 Mar rep- resented only a 5th inland spring record for Al- abama (KGB, JH). Gray Kingbirds continue their slow return to the Alabama coast. The single bird banded 7 Apr at Ft. Morgan was a little early (b., ph. DBe, RRS). Two pairs at Gulf S.P., Baldwin, AL returned to nest again 5-7 May (RAD, LRD, BM). The Yellow-throated Vireo in Limestone, AL 30 Mar was carrying nest material, setting a new early mark QTGi TMH). A Red-eyed Vireo on Dauphin 1. 17 Mar (DD, CD), a Wood Thrush 17 Mar at Ft. Mor- gan, and 3 SwainsoiTs Thrashes at Dauphin 1. the same day were all likewise early (RS&DCH). The American Pipit in Tuscaloosa 1 May was unusually late for the Inner Coastal Plain region of Alabama (HHK, MSh et al.). WARBLERS THROUGH BLACKBIRDS The male Lawrence’s Warbler 22 Apr on Dauphin 1. represented only the 9th Alabama record for this rare backcross (SF, DB, RAD, m.ob.). If a migrant, a Northern Parala 1 Mar at Dauphin 1. was early (DD, CD); another 10 Mar in Jefferson furnished a new early record for the Mountain Region of Alabama (RR&MBS). Black-throated Blue Warblers are uncommon migrants through our area, mak- ing three reports noteworthy: males were dis- covered at Henleyfield, Pearl River, MS 28 Apr (NB), inland at Monte Sano S.P, Madison, AL 28 Apr (GDJ, DGJ), and at Talladega N.F, Cle- burne, AL 5 May (GDJ, DGJ). Cerulean War- bler has become an uncommon migrant and rare breeder in our Region, making reports from eight different locations encouraging. A female Cerulean at Opelika, Lee, AL 31 Mar was early (LW). A singing male in Montgomery 19 Apr was rare for the Inner Coastal Plain re- gion of Alabama (LFG). A survey 21-30 Apr in Choctaw/Lowndes/Oktibbeha, MS found 1-2 Ceruleans at five different sites (TLS, MS, MC). Nests are rarely located, so finding a Cerulean pair with large young 25 May at Bankhead N.F, Lawrence, AL was exciting (ECS, JT). If migrants, 2 Black-and-white War- blers on Dauphin 1. 1 Mar furnished a new Al- abama early record (DD, CD). A singing Swainson’s Warbler 4 May near Key Cave N.W.R., Lauderdale was a rare find for the Ten- nessee Valley region of Alabama, where the species is an occasional breeder (SWM, DJS, JTG). An impressive total of 21 Swainson’s was found at 13 cen. Mississippi locations in Choctaw/Lowndes/Oktibbeha/Noxubee 21 Apr+, with up to 5 at one location (TLS, MS). Early Hooded Warblers were found at Noxubee 24 Mar (TLS, MS) and at Tannehill S.P., Jefferson, AL 30 Mar (HHK, RDK). A Kentucky Warbler 22 Mar at Birmingham, Jejferson, AL continued the early pattern (RR). The singing Connecticut Warbler at Indian Creek Greenway, Madison, Madison, AL 19 May provided a noteworthy observation of this rarely detected migrant (GDJ, DGJ). Up to 3 Mourning Warblers were found at the same site 13-18 May for a new Alabama max- imum (KW, HD, BM). While Summer Tan- agers are not unusual in our Region, the 99 totaled during the Wheeler spring count 28 Apr furnished a new maximum for Alabama’s Tennessee Valley region (CDC, m.ob.). A Le Conte’s Sparrow 24 Apr on the Mississippi coast at Waveland, Hancock (NB) was rather late. A Dark-eyed Junco 11 Apr at Ft. Morgan provided a new late record for the Gulf Coast region of Alabama (RAD, LRD, LC). The 54 Baltimore Orioles totaled during the Wheeler spring count 28 Apr established a new maximum for the Tennessee Valley re- gion of Alabama (CDC, m.ob.). At least 150 Blue Grosbeaks 22 Apr at Ft. Morgan fur- Q A The 100+ Cave Swallows that appeared 7 Apr at Ft. Morgan followed behind passage of a strong cold front (HEH, m) t\ BSu, ph. TS, m.ob.) and far exceeded the previous Regional high count of around 6! The flock dissipated quickly over the next few days, with the last report 12 Apr. A dead bird found 1 1 Apr was later determined to be of the pallida {pelodoma) subspecies (RAD, LRD,TW, *F.M.N.H.). The Hummer/Bird Study Group banding operation managed to capture and examine 3 individuals, all of which were also pallida (DBe, FB, RRS). A single Cave Swallow 11 Apr at nearby Dauphin I. was likely part of this same influx (LW). 458 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS ALABAMA & MISSISSIPPI These three Cave Swallows at Fort Morgan, Baldwin County, Alabama were part of the 100+ that appeared 7 April 2007 — easily the highest docu- mented Regional count ever. During their brief stay, three flock members were banded and one dead specimen was recovered. Examination deter- mined all to be of the southwestern subspecies pallida {pelodoma). Photograph by Tom Siegwald. nished a new maximum spring count for Ala- bama (GDJ, DGJ). The male Shiny Cowbird 21 Apr on Dauphin I. was the only spring report received for this occasional species (LRD). Up to 5 Bronzed Cowbirds were ob- served 5 May+ at Ansley, Han- cock, MS, with some observed in courtship (NB). Impressive Bobolink numbers were noted 24 Apr-17 May at Waveland, Han- cock, MS, with 300-400 early in the period falling to 60 by mid- May (NB). Initialed observers (subregional editors in boldface): Mark Bailey, Peggy Baker, Fred Bassett, Duane Berger, Kevin G. Boles, Ned Boya- jian, Johnny Bradford, Dick Bruer, Laura Catterton, Roger Clay, C.D. Cooley, Margaret Copeland,]. O. & T. D. Coulson, Drew Cowherd, Harry Dean, Car- rie Dortch, David Dortch, Lucy R. Duncan, Robert A. Duncan, Shirley Farrell, Mike Fe- duke, Barry K. Fleming, Glenn Ford, Lawrence F Gardella, Ben C. Garmon, Jeff T. Garner, Esther Guenther, Steve Hacker, An- drew Haffenden, Tom M. Haggerty, Dana C. Hamilton, R. Stan Hamilton, Bert Harris, Car- olyn Henning, Jerry Hoffman, Howard E. Horne, Debra G. Jackson, Greg D. Jackson (Alabama), Michael]. Jordan, Ty Keith, Helen H. Kittinger, Ronald D. Kittinger, Paul D. Kit- tle, Gene & Shannon Knight, Angie Langevin, Paul E. Lehman, Betty Lemley, Rodney & Jeannie McCollum, Steven W. McConnell, Bai- ley McKay, Ray Miller, Diane & Jim Patterson, Wayne Patterson, John E Porter, Tommy R. Pratt, Rick Remy Merilu Rose, Martha B. Sar- gent, Robert R. Sargent, Brett Scheffers, Mari- on Schiefer, Terence L. Schiefer (Mississippi), Maureen Shaffer, Tom Siegwald, Damien J. Simbeck, Eric C. Soehren, Bill Summerour, Marlin Tagatz, Jack L. Throp, John Trent, Ken Ward, Tom Webber, Lorna West. ^ Steven W. McConnell, 29 Village Drive NE Hartselle, Alabama 35640, (swmavocet@aol.com) Arkansas & Louisiana mCraig Fish Hatcheiy _ •Harrison • Fayettevilie ARKANSAS \Ft Smith ^ ■ I L Dardanellc Jev Ha Big Lake NWR Hulsey State DeGrav L.u * ■L. Conway Joe Hogan State Fish Hatchery White ■ dation Ponds Oakwoodm^ Millwood L. NWR ^ L Chicot tit Overflow NWRu ^ •Monroe 1 : Shreveport \ ■ LOUISIANA j ToledoV NWR Bend\ Catahoula L. m ^ Alexandria* Cheneyville# Cameron Parish ~ ■ \ Rutherford \ Beach \ Lacassine Lafayerie GULF OF MEXICO Steven W. Cardiff Passage of a strong cold front through the region 3-5 April allowed a cold air mass to penetrate unusually far south, result- ing in a late freeze affecting the Ozarks region of Arkansas on 7-8 April. The freeze caused widespread damage to buds, foliage, and flowers on many bird-important species of trees. Although some recovery and re-leafing was apparent later in the season, the timing of this event undoubtedly impacted northbound migrants and early nesting species. This same front, backing up as a warm front and then in- teracting with a second cold front on 9-12 April, precipitated fair numbers of trans-Gulf migrants on the Louisiana coast 10-11 April. Birding activity in southwestern Louisiana surged during late April and early May, fortu- nately in association with the joint American Birding Association-Louisiana Ornithological Society convention in Lafayette. Abbreviations: County/parish names are ital- icized; counties/parishes are indicated only for the initial mention of a specific locality, and states are indicated only for the initial mention of counties/parishes, except to avoid confusion. Eor records of “review list” species, documentation has been received and records have either been accepted by, or ac- ceptance is pending by, the respective state bird records committee. Significance for Arkansas records is based on James and Neal (1986) plus the Arkansas Audubon Society online bird record database, and, for Louisiana, on the Louisiana bird record data- base at the Louisiana State University Muse- um of Natural Science (LSUMNS). WATERFOWL Although Black-bellied Whistling-Ducks are spreading in Arkansas, Fulvous Whistling- Ducks are still considered rare, so one near Arkansas City, Desha 25-26 May (ph. DB) and 11 at Bald Knob N.W.R., White (KN) were of interest. A Greater White-fronted Goose was a strange sight heading southwestward over La- cassine, Jejferson Davis, LA on the late date of 28 Apr (DLD, SWC). Breeding Mottled Ducks continued to thrive in Desha, with 20 ads. and 15 young counted 28 May (DB); a dozen Blue-winged Teal and 2 male Northern Shov- elers there 26 May (DB) were most likely late migrants. An ad. male Cinnamon Teal in ex- treme sw. Cameron 8 May (PEL) established a new late spring record for Louisiana, and a fe- male Greater Scaup at Craig Eish Hatchery, Benton 12 May (MAM, DC) was the 2nd latest all-time for Arkansas. The wintering male Tufted Duck on L. Dardanelle, Yell/Pope, AR (K&LN, m.ob.) was last seen 18 Mar. Late scoters included 4 Surfs at New Orleans 17 Mar (vt. PAW), one Surf at L. Eayetteville, Washington, AR 14 Apr (DC), an imm. male White-winged near Little Rock, Pulaski, AR VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 459 ARKANSAS & LOUISIANA 17-20 Mar (ph. Kelly Jobe, DM), a female Black at New Orleans 10 Mar (PAW, DMD), and another at Holly Beach, Cameron, LA 6 Apr (ph. PEC, BMM, Gay Gomez, Robin Doughty), and possibly the same bird there 27-28 Apr QHo, PEL et al). A Long-tailed Duck at New Orleans 3 Mar was likely the same bird seen 23 Feb (PAW, CCS). Spring migrant Red-breasted Mergansers are seldom detected inland, so 8 moving up the Red R. near Shreveport, Caddo, LA 16 Mar (TD) were of interest. GREBES THROUGH CARACARA At L. Fayetteville, 115 Pied-billed Grebes 14 Apr (MAM, DC) was an impressive Regional spring concentration. Fifty-eight Horned Grebes at False R., Pointe Coupee 4 Mar (DBo, JBo) was an excellent count for the Baton Rouge area; one in Desha was rather late 27 Apr (D&SB). A Red-necked Grebe at Treadway Fish Farms, Prairie 5 Mar, with 2 birds on 11 Mar and at least one present to 14 Apr (ph. DBr, KN, DM, D&SB, ph. NA), would represent the 6th/7th Arkansas occurrences (if accepted as separate records). Sin- gle Eared Grebes at New Orleans 3 Mar (PAW) and on False R. 4 Mar (DBo, JBo) were unusual for s.-cen. and se. Louisiana; 2 in al- ternate plumage in Prairie 6 Apr (Rob Doster, DM) and one in Craighead 12 Apr (NA) were rela- tively late for Arkansas. An imm. Brown Pelican flying westward along 1-10 in Jefferson Davis 1 May (PEL) was certainly out of place. Single Swallow-tailed Kites in Louisiana at Palmetto L, Vennilion 9 May QVH) and near St. Gabriel, Iberville 12 May (JVR) were prob- able late migrants away from known breeding locations. A White-tailed Kite at Mt. Magazine S.P., Logan 1 Mar (DSi) was completely unex- pected and only about the 10th for Arkansas. Lingering female Northern Harriers were in Desha 10 May (DB) and at Searcy, White 24 May (KN). A very late Sharp-shinned Hawk at Fort Polk, Vernon 30 May QJ) was suggestive of breeding; there is one previous confirmed nesting record from that area of w.-cen. Louisiana. A pair of Cooper’s Hawks at Grand Isle, Jefferson 20 May (DPr) was also sugges- tive of breeding and would be a new coastal locale for the species. Swainson’s Hawks were widely reported in sw. Louisiana; although some may have been migrants, most were thought to be territorial pairs. A pair with nest material near Chloe, Calcasieu 1 Apr (BMM, PEC, MJM, DP); a pair copulating at a com- pleted nest near Bell City, Calcasieu 29 Apr (SWC, DLD et al; nest inactive 5 Jun); and sightings relatively far e. in extreme se. Ver- milion 11 Apr and 9 May QVH) were among the more interesting reports. About a dozen Crested Caracaras reported from sw. Louisiana included 2 ads. and a subad. seen repeatedly near Bell City 24-29 Apr (two sightings of birds carrying nest material; SWC, ph. DLD, BMM et al.), and an ad. relatively far ne. (and n. of I-IO) near Lacassine, Jefferson Davis 24 Apr (SWC, DLD, Jeff Gordon et al.). Ten Sand- hill Cranes in Poinsett, AR 8 Mar (ph. NA) were relatively late for the Region. SHOREBIRDS At Port Fourchon, Lafourche, LA, 130 Black- bellied Plovers 29 Apr (PAW) qualified as one of the larger state counts, and 6 American Golden-Plovers were late at Grand Isle 20 May (DPr). A Louisiana record high of 520 Semi- palmated Plovers 21 Apr, mainly in Acadia and Jefferson Davis (SWC, DLD), and a concentra- tion of 25 in Benton 28 Apr (MAM, Paige Mul- hollan), clustered nicely with previous Region- al spring high counts; 100 at Grand Isle 20 May (DPr) was a large number for the coast so late, and 3 in Benton 24-27 May (MAM, JN) were relatively late for Arkansas. Earliest ever for nw. Arkansas was a Lesser Yellowlegs in Benton 2 Mar (MAM, JN). Among four Arkansas reports of Willets, 2 in Lonoke 14 Apr (K&LN) were relatively early, and 14 in Ne- vada 30 Apr (ph. Eddie Daniel) was a relative- ly high number. Also record early was a Hud- sonian Godwit in Prairie 12 Apr (KN), and several other reports in Prairie, Lonoke, and White 14-18 Apr (D&SB, ph. NA, K&LN, LY, Ken Dayer, DBr, Pat Braddy) were also rela- tively early; 200+ in se. Calcasieu and s. Jeffer- son Davis 6 May (BMM, ph. DP, PEC) sur- passed the previous Louisiana high count by a wide margin. Very rare away from the coast, es- pecially in spring, single Marbled Godwits turned up in White 15 Apr (LY), Prairie 21 Apr (K&LN, D&SB), and se. Calcasieu 6 May (ph. DP, BMM, PEC). Somewhat more regular in the far interior but still noteworthy were a Ruddy Turnstone in Benton 24-25 May (MAM) and a Sanderling in Prairie 2 May (KN). About 300 Red Knots at Grand Isle 14-15 Apr (SWC, DLD, DBo, JBo) was an encouraging number. A Western Sandpiper in Prairie 1 Apr (K&LN) was considered a very early migrant. Thirty Baird’s Sandpipers in Lonoke 14 Apr (NA, D&SB) was a relatively large number in Arkansas. An estimated 3000 White-rumped Sandpipers at Cameron Prairie N.W.R., Cameron 8 May (PEL) surpassed the previous Louisiana high total. About 5500 Stilt Sand- pipers in ne. Cameron and Jefferson Davis 21 Apr (SWC, DLD) was also a new record, but was quickly eclipsed by 12,000 at Cameron Prairie N.W.R. 8 May (PEL). A total of 374 Buff-breasted Sandpipers in Acadia and Jefferson Davis 21 Apr (SWC, DLD) set yet another new state record. A male Ruff at Treadway Fish Farm 22 Mar (DBr) would be about the 11th for Arkansas and one of the earliest spring records. An aggregation of 2000 Short- billed Dowitchers at Grand Isle 14 Apr (SWC, DLD) was a fairly im- pressive number for one location. An estimated 17,000 Long-billed Dowitchers at Lonoke/Prairie fish farms 14 Apr, including 15,000 by one party (K&LN), appear to be unprecedented numbers in Arkansas (NA, D&SB); 155 in Ben- ton 28 Apr (MAM et al.) was a new high for nw. Arkansas. Rounding out the array of record shorebird numbers were 440 Wilson’s Phalaropes in Cameron 8 May (PEL), the 2nd highest count for Louisiana. GULLS THROUGH NIGHTJARS A Laughing Gull in Prairie 2 May (K&LN) was a good spring bird for cen. Arkansas, and 5 Franklin’s Gulls in Benton 24 May (MAM) were rare and relatively late for the state. Ca- sual in Louisiana, a Little Gull was well de- scribed at Cameron 31 Mar (DBo, JBo). Up to 400 Bonaparte’s Gulls in the Holly Beach area 6 Apr (BMM, PEC) coincided with the species’ migration peak during late Mar-early Apr. Now almost expected in spring, at least 3 Lesser Black-backed Gulls in the Holly Beach-Cameron area 28 Apr-12 May (PEL, ph. BMM, DP, DBo, ph. JBo, DPM) were the only ones reported. A first-cycle Glaucous Gull was seen at Cameron 24-27 Apr Qeff An- tonellis-Lapp, ph. Gary H. Rosenberg, DPM, PEL, ESB, JHo et al). Great Black-backed In Arkansas, a Red-necked Grebe at Treadway Fish Farms, Prairie County 5 March 2007 was joined by a second individual on 1 1 March, and at least one was present through 14 April 2007 (here). These represent the sixth and seventh state records. Photograph by Nick Anich. 460 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS ARKANSAS & LOUISIANA Gull encounters included a third-cycle bird at Grand Isle 6 Apr (EJ), possibly the same bird there 13-14 Apr (vt. PAW, CCS, SWC, ph. DLD, JBo, DBo), and a first-cycle bird at Cameron 26-29 Apr (DPM, PEL, ph. Alvaro Jaramillo, JBo, DBo). A Black-legged Kitti- wake near Holly Beach 20 Mar may have been the same individual found at nearby Cameron 29 Apr (ph. DBo, JBo et ah). A Gull-billed Tern heard overhead near Sorrento, Ascension 6 May (SWC, DLD) was well inland from the species’ normal spring coastal haunts. Also unexpected inland in sw. Louisiana were at least six pairs of nesting Least Terns along I-IO near Lacassine (BMM, SWC, ph. DLD et al). Increasingly scarce, 3 ad. Common Ground-Doves near Franklin- ton, Washington, AR 18 May (Laura Palasz, A. Taylor) were a pleasant surprise and possibly suggestive of local breeding. A smattering of Yellow-billed Cuckoo reports in Baton Rouge and near St. Gabriel 24 Mar (SWC, DLD, JVR, R. Brumfield) and at New Orleans 25 Mar (DPM) represented an exceptionally early wave of arriving migrants. A Burrowing Owl wintering near Holmwood, Calcasieu was re- ported intermittently 9 Mar-1 1 Apr (vt. JB, JBo, DBo, BMM, PEC, ph. DP). Rarely detect- ed spring Whip-poor-wills included singing males at Shreveport 28 Mar (TD) and near St. Gabriel 21 Apr (DLD). HUMMINGBIRDS THROUGH VIREOS A wintering female Calliope Hummingbird that remained near St. Gabriel through 13 Apr (ph. DLD, SWC) represented one of the latest spring departures. In Ouachita N.E, Scott, AR, 32 active Red-cockaded Woodpecker nests 8 May QN) was the same number reported in 2006. Difficult to explain was a Pileated Woodpecker at Johnsons Bayou 25 Apr (DPM); there are only three previous records from the immediate sw. coast, all from mid- late Apr. Exceptionally rare in spring for se. Louisiana was an Olive-sided Flycatcher at New Orleans 19 May (DPM). An Acadian Fly- catcher in Faulkner 3 Apr Qohn Workman) was very early for Arkansas. Up to 3 call- ing/singing Alder Flycatchers per day were noted in Caddo/Bossier 19-27 May (TD); the species is likely a regular spring migrant in nw. Louisiana, but there are still relatively few convincing records. Still considered extreme- ly rare in Louisiana, Willow Flycatchers in Caddo/Bossier included 1-2 unusually early individuals calling/singing 25-30 Apr, then not detected again until 8 May, with numbers then building to a peak of 7+ on 19 May and at least 3 territorial birds through the end of the period (TD). A female Vermilion Fly- catcher in Desha 30 May (D&SB) may furnish the first May record for Arkansas and certain- ly one of very few spring/early summer records for the Region. Two Western King- birds at Grand Isle 15 Apr (SWC, ph. DLD et al), 6 in Pulaski 11 May (DS, Robert Herron, Doris Boyles), and one in White 30 May (KN) were all relatively far east. Three male Scissor- tailed Flycatchers were relatively early in Bossier 22 Mar (TD). A Yellow-throated Vireo near St. Gabriel 1 1 Mar (DLD) was apparently record early for the Baton Rouge area (and among the earliest This Cave Swallow at Millwood Lake, Little River County 24 March through 15 (here 8) April 2007 supplied the second record for Arkansas. Photograph by Charles Mills. ever for Louisiana); one in Craighead 23 Mar (Norman Lavers) was early for Arkansas. Some of this spring’s exceptional vireo counts from the Louisiana coast included 143 White- eyeds and 66 Yellow-throateds at Grand Isle 10 Apr (PAW, CCS) and 120 White-eyeds and 25 Yellow-throateds at Johnsons Bayou 11 Apr (PEC, BMM). A Blue-headed Vireo near St. Gabriel 19 Apr (DLD) tied the area late record. Warbling Vireos at Homer, Claiborne 24 Mar Qohn Dillon) and in Bossier 28 Mar (TD) were very early, especially for n. Louisiana. Five Warbling Vireos in coastal Cameron 11 Apr (PEC, BMM) and 25-26 Apr (DPM) would normally be impressive, but an estimated 50-60 there 15 Apr (MJM) and 40 e. of Cameron the same day (DFL) were un- precedented Louisiana counts by an order of magnitude. Philadelphia Vireos on the Cameron coast numbered about 50 between multiple sites 25 Apr (PEL, ESB, m.ob.); one at Grand Isle 20 May (DPr) was late; and 8 in Benton 12 May (MAM, DC) was a large num- ber for nw. Arkansas. Relatively early Red- eyed Vireos in Louisiana were near St. Gabriel 18 (DLD) & 19 Mar QVR), in St. Martin 20 Mar (DBo, JBo), and in Union 4 Apr (SP). A Black-whiskered Vireo was a good find at Johnsons Bayou 13 May (ph. EJ). SWALLOWS THROUGH PIPITS A Tree Swallow at Cotile L., Rapides 28 May, and 2 there 31 May QVH), were in an area where a pair nested the previous two years. Northern Rough-winged Swallows in Pulaski 1 Mar (DBr) and Arkansas 10 Mar (DS) pro- vided some of the earliest records for Arkansas. A Cliff Swallow at Shreveport 6 Mar (TD) was apparently record early for the state, much less for n. Louisiana. Representing a 2nd Arkansas record, a Cave Swallow made itself available at Millwood L., Little River 24 Mar-15 Apr (ph. CM, Dolores & Donald Har- rington, m.ob.). Another Cave Swallow found dead on a drilling ship in the Gulf of Mexico approximately 174 km sse. of South Pass of the Mississippi R. 10 Apr (Troy Reitan, *LSUMNS) was the first specimen for Louisiana. Three or 4 Barn Swallows at Shreveport 1 Mar (TD) were early, and an es- timated 700 on the Cameron coast 11 Apr (BMM, PEC) apparently made a new Louisiana spring high count. Although al- ways scarce along the extreme sw. coast, 2 Carolina Chickadees in a beach chenier e. of Rutherford Beach, Cameron 9 Apr (PEC, BMM) was the first post-Hurricane Rita report from the area. Lingering Red-breasted Nuthatches at Little Rock 6 Mar (Mel White) and Searcy 2 Apr (KN) were the only reports. Presumably one of the birds that had wintered locally, a Rock Wren at Millwood L., Hemp- stead 16 Apr (WS) was the latest spring date for the state other than a 31 May 1958 record in Pike. Also very late was a Ruby-crowned Kinglet in Craighead 22 May (DB). A pair of Eastern Bluebirds using a nest box sw. of Thornwell, Jefferson Davis 21 & 24 Apr (SWC, DLD), and another pair s. of Holm- wood 29 Apr (DBo), were at the sw. limit of the species’ breeding range in Louisiana; a male at Cameron 6 May (PEC, DP, BMM) was exceptionally late for the coast. Arkansas’s 6th Townsend’s Solitaire at Mt. Magazine S.P 2-3 Apr (DSi, DBr) also repre- sented the latest spring record. A Swainson’s Thrush at Johnsons Bayou 6 Apr (PEC, BMM) and a lingering Hermit Thrush near St. Gabriel 19 Apr (DLD) ranked among the state’s earliest and latest records, respectively. A Wood Thrush at Johnsons Bayou 17 May (BMM, PEC) was late for the coast, and Gold- en-crowned Kinglets at Grand Isle 1 Apr (DPM) and near Johnsons Bayou 2 Apr QBo) were among the latest records for the coast and the state in general. Also late were 18 American Pipits near Lacassine 24 Apr, with one still present 26 Apr (SWC, DLD). At least one Cedar Waxwing on a drilling ship 24-32 km s. of South Pass 12 May (ph. Taylor Sulli- van, Jessica Mucci) may represent the first spring record from the Gulf of Mexico off Louisiana. VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 461 ARKANSAS & LOUISIANA WARBLERS A conservative count of 27 Blue-winged War- blers at Johnsons Bayou 11 Apr (PEC, BMM) was a record number for Louisiana; 19 at Grand Isle 10 Apr (PAW, CCS) were also no- table. A good bird in nw. Arkansas, a male Golden-winged Warbler at Mt. Sequoyah, Washington 18 May (MAM) was also late. Al- ways interesting, reports of Blue-winged War- bler X Golden-winged Warbler hy- brids/backcrosses included a male Lawrences at Grand Isle 10 Apr (CCS, PAW) and a male Brewsters there 15 Apr (DLD, SWC). A scarce spring migrant on the coast, 2 Nashville Warblers were near Johnsons Bayou 11 Apr (PEC, BMM), and anoth- er was there 14 Apr (DMD, R. C. Dobbs); one at Mt. Sequoyah 28 Mar (MAM) was apparently a new early date for Arkansas. Forty Northern Parulas near Cameron 15 Apr (DEL) was a relatively high count of spring migrants. Most notable among four Arkansas reports of Cape May Warbler were a rather early singing male 25 Apr (DB) and an impressive 5 in Craighead 6 May (D&SB et ah); one at Grand Isle 29 Apr (PAW) was the sole Louisiana report. Late Yellow-rumped Warblers included one near Bell City 29 Apr (SWC, DLD), a late high count of 22 in Washington, AR 4 May (MAM), and singles at two other locations in Wash- ington 6 & 12 May (MAM, DC). A rare Audubon’s Warbler wintering at New Orleans was last reported 10 Mar (PAW). Early Black- throated Green Warblers included singles at Johnsons Bayou 18 Mar (BMM, PEC) and in Caddo and Bossier 25 Mar (TD), plus 3 in Ouachita 26 Mar (]H, Robert Vineth Also in Ouachita was an early male Blackburnian 2 Apr (JH); 15-20 in Craighead 3 May (DB) was a remarkable number inland. A rare spring migrant on the coast, a Prairie Warbler was at Oak Grove 26 Apr (DLD). The Palm Warbler in Crittenden, AR 29 Mar (ph. Ron Howard) could have been either a lingering winterer or a very early migrant. A Bay-breasted Warbler in Caddo 27 May (TD), a Blackpoll in Wnsli- ington, AR 26 May (JN, MAM), and a Cerulean Warbler in Ouachita, LA 12 May (SP, JBr, CH) were all new local late records. A Black-and-white Warbler in Caldwell 10 Mar OBr, SP, CH) and a Worm-eating in Ouachita 1 Apr (JH) were relatively early for n. Louisiana. Forty-hve Worm-eating Warblers at Grand Isle 10 Apr (PAW, CCS) tied for the 2nd highest number ever in Louisiana. A Northern Waterthrush at Johnsons Bayou 31 Mar QBo, DBo) was presumably a very early migrant, but an Ovenbird at New Orleans 17 Mar (C. Seidenberg) had most likely wintered locally. The 11 Apr fallout at Johnsons Bayou produced a nice count of 120 Hooded War- blers (PEC, BMM). SPARROWS THROUGH FINCHES An Eastern Towhee at Johnsons Bayou 1 1 Apr (PEC, BMM), a Chipping Sparrow there 5 May (DBo, JBo), and 2 Field Sparrows e. of Cameron 15 Apr (DEL) all provided some of the latest records for the Louisiana coast. A wintering Clay-colored Sparrow at Metairie, Jefferson mid-Jan-2 Apr (ph. Beth Wiggins) This wintering Clay-colored Sparrow at Metairie, Jefferson Parish remained from mid-January through 2 (here 1) April 2007; this represents Louisiana's second known instance of a wintering individual present for an extended period and provided a new late "last observed" date. Photograph by Beth Wiggins. was only the 2nd known instance of a winter- ing bird present for an extended period and gave us a new late “last observed” date. One at Johnsons Bayou 11 Apr (BMM) was one of relatively few spring records for the coast and the first since 1998; there are also surprising- ly few spring records for nw. Louisiana, so 1- 2 in Bossier 14 Apr-1 May (TD) were of in- terest. Ten late Savannah Sparrows were in Bossier 16 May, with one still present 20 May (TD). Generally a seldom-detected inland mi- grant in the Region, a Nelson’s Sharp-tailed Sparrow at Fayetteville 13 May (JN, Ricky Corder, Rob Wiedenmann) marked only the 2nd spring record for the Ozarks. Lingering White-throated Sparrows included different birds in Caddo 13 & 30 May (TD) and a “de- fective” bird (with skin inflammations on its face) near St. Gabriel 30 Apr-4 Jun (SWC, DLD). An ad. male Harris’s Sparrow in Wasli- ington 13 May Oason Luscier) set a new late date for Arkansas. A dozen White-crowned Sparrows in Jefferson Davis 29 Apr (SWC, DLD) were thought to be late wintering birds; one was also late near Cameron 5 May (DBo, JBo). Late for the coast was a Blue Grosbeak at Grand Isle 20 May (DPr). The state’s 8th Lazuli Bunting, an ad. male, appeared in Gar- land, AR 3 May (ph. Carolyn Minson). Al- though not unprecedented as a breeder in se. Louisiana, up to 15 territorial male Dickeis- sels at Bonnet Carre Spillway 2 May-r (C. G. Brantley) was an exceptional concentration. Reports of Yellow-headed Blackbirds, an- other scarce spring migrant, included an ad. male at Lecompte, Rapides 6 Apr QJ), a female at Grand Isle 15 Apr (SWC, ph. DLD), and a singing ad. male near Lacassine 26 Apr (SWC, ph. DLD). Four female Brewer’s Blackbirds were late near Sweet L., Cameron 26 Apr (SWC, DLD). A pair of Great-tailed Grackles at Lake End, Red River (Bill Fontenot) added another record for nw. Louisiana; at Craig Fish Hatchery, following a Jan count of 200, numbers had increased to 300 by 10 Mar QN, MAM). A male Shiny Cowbird was at Grand Isle 14 Apr (JBo, vt. DBo). Still surprisingly scarce and of uncertain status in sw. Louisiana, a Bronzed Cow- bird was observed at Johnsons Bayou 28 Apr (PEL et ah), and a male dis- playing to a female at Thornwell 12 May (BMM, PEC, DP) was suggestive of breeding. Separate counts of 148 and 140 Baltimore Orioles in Cameron 25 Apr QBo, DBo, DPM) were, surprising- ly, unprecedented; 3 wintering males at Thibodaux, Lafourche were last ob- served 22 Apr (Beth & Sammy Manis- calco). A pair of Red Crossbills in Pope, AR 13 May (Roger Gunter) provided the only report of the species. Cited observers (subregional editors in bold- face): Nick Anich, Dick Baxter, Sarah Baxter, James Beck, Devin Bosler (DBo), Justin Bosler OBo), Dennis Braddy (DBr), Edward S. Brink- ley, Joan Brown Steven W. Cardiff (Louisiana), David Chapman, Paul E. Conover, Terry Davis, Donna L. Dittmann, Danny M. Dobbs, Janis Harrison, Jim Holmes QHo), Chuck Hughes, Jay Y Huner QVH), Erik Johnson, Jim Johnson, Daniel E Lane, Paul E. Lehman, Delos McCauley, Charles Mills, Michael A. Mlodinow, Michael J. Musumeche, David P Muth (DPM), B. Mac Myers, Joe Neal (Arkansas), Kenny Nichols, LaDonna Nichols, Steve Pagans, Max & Helen Parker (Arkansas), Dave Patton, Dick Prenti (DPr), J. V. Remsen, Dan Scheiman, William Shepherd, Don Simons (DSi), Curt C. Sorrells, Phillip A. Wallace, Lyndal York. Steven W. Cardiff, Museum of Natural Science 119 Foster Hall, Louisiana State University Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70803-3216 (scardif@lsu.edu) 462 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS Northern Canada Cameron D. Eckert Spring in the Yukon began with a bitter cold snap in Mar, with temperatures plunging to -35° C. Strong southwester- ly winds in April may have pushed the Tundra Swan migration off its normal route through southern Yukon. In Northwest Territories, while winter temperatures were above aver- age overall, the season was reluctant to release its grip: from March into April, the skies stayed overcast, with temperatures several de- grees cooler than the monthly normals. A fairly heavy snowpack accumulated, especial- ly in the western mountains, resulting in heavy spring runoffs. Ice breakup on the Mackenzie River was exceptionally early at Norman Wells. WATERFOWL THROUGH SHOREBIRDS The first Canada Geese of spring at Redknife R., NWT were noted 16 Apr (RN). Ross’s Goose is rare in the Sahtu region, NWT; one was confirmed by a specimen from Willow L. 19 May (RD, RP). Early migrant waterfowl, including Canada Geese, Snow Geese, and swans, staged in unusually high numbers at Willow L. in late May (RP). In Northwest Territories, an unusual shift in the staging area of migrant geese on the n. coast — from the Anderson R. & Cape Bathurst area to Paulatuk proximity — was noted this spring ON). Trumpeter Swan migration peaked at M’Clintock Bay, s. Yukon 23 Apr with a count of 897 OJ)- Tundra Swan migration through s. Yukon was well off its regular track this year; M’Clintock Bay near Whitehorse had a high count of just 106 on 28 Apr QJ), while 1237 were tallied flying over Albert Cr. near Watson L., se. Yukon (hereafter, Albert Cr.) 28 Apr (TMK); strong southwesterly winds through late Apr apparently pushed the mi- gration e. from the Yukon R. valley to the Liard Basin. A peak count of 836 Northern Pintails was recorded at M’Clintock Bay, s. Yukon 25 Apr OJ). A male Common Goldeneye x Barrow’s Goldeneye hybrid was at M’Clintock Bay 16 Apr, and anoth- er was at Shallow Bay, s. Yukon 18 Apr OJ). Dusky Grouse reports, all from s. Yukon, included 5 along the Annie Lake Rd. 22 Apr (HG), 6 at Mon- tana Mt. 27 Apr (DK, YBC), and 4 on Grey Mt. 1-2 May (CE; BD, HG, CO, PS). A flock of 30 Sharp-tailed Grouse was observed in the head- waters of the Nisling R., sw. Yukon 14 Mar (MW). A breedings-plum- aged Eared Grebe, rare in the Yukon, was a nice find in Whitehorse on the 26 May Yukon Birdathon (ph. MB, KM, WB); it was seen be- ing courted by 2 Horned Grebes 28 May (HG, BSu). Bald Eagles returned to Trout L., NWT at the beginning of Mar (DD). A Sharp- shinned Hawk at Arviat, Nunavut 15 May (ph. JS, LJS) was well beyond its range. A Golden Eagle was noted 4 Apr near Cache L., NWT in the mts. w. of Norman Wells (AV). The Tintina Trench is a major flyway for Sandhill Cranes across the Yukon to their breeding grounds in nw. Alaska; counts this year in the Faro-Ross R. area included 2995 Killdeer was reported at Trout L. , NWT dur- ing a snowstorm 11 Apr (DD). An impressive shorebird fallout at M’Clintock Bay, s. Yukon 12 May produced 300 Semipalmated Plovers, 1000 Semipalmated Sandpipers, 100 Least Sandpipers, 40 Baird’s Sandpipers, and 2000 Pectoral Sandpipers (CE). A fiock of 17 Whimbrels first seen at M’Clintock Bay 12 May (CE) remained in the area for a week or so. A notable shorebird migration was ob- served in the Faro area, s. Yukon 16 May: 1450 shorebirds heading to the west-north- west in flocks of 60 to 200, were mostly (or all) Long-billed Dowitchers and Pectoral Sandpipers; another 295 of the same species was recorded early on 17 May (PS). A total of 28 Solitary Sandpipers, mostly migrants, was recorded during surveys of 67 wetlands in Faro/Ross R. area 16-17 May (PS). A Wander- ing Tattler at Albert Cr. 18 May (TMK) pro- vided one of very few records for se. Yukon. Two Upland Sandpipers were seen along the Aishihik Rd., sw. Yukon 18 May (RRH). Whimbrel numbers peaked at 12 at Norman Wells, NWT 21 May (DW). Hudsonian God- v/its are scarce in sw. Yukon; 4 were seen at Dezadeash L. 18 May (EK). A Red Knot, very rare in s. Yukon, was at Judas Cr. 23-27 May (ph. CE, PS). A White-rumped Sandpiper touched down at Herschel L, n. Yukon 30 May (AK, DR, EM). Single Short-billed Dow- This Eared Grebe was first discevered 26 May 2007 in Whitehorse during the Yukon Birdathon; it was observed 28 May (here) being courted by two Horned Grebes. Photograph by Helmut Grilnberg. on 9 May and 3025 on 10 May (PS). A Black-bellied Plover at Norman Wells, NWT 24 May (ph. DW) was a rare find in the Mackenzie Valley in spring. A flock of 116 American Golden-Plovers was recorded at Hay River, NWT 23 May (GV). A male Pacific Golden-Plover was right on cue for a group of birders on an outing along the Yukon R. in Whitehorse, s. Yukon 10 May (ph. CE, YBC); other reports included a male at M’Clintock Bay, s. Yukon 12 May (ph. CE), a female at Horse Cr., s. Yukon 14-15 May (ph. CE), and a male there in mid-May QJ)- A single itchers were displaying at Coffee L. near Ross R., s. Yukon 25 May and w. of Coffee L. 30 May (PS). GULLS THROUGH FINCHES Wetland surveys in s. Yukon recorded a few concentrations of migrant Bonaparte’s Gulls, including 115 at Johnson’s L. near Faro 16 May and 128 at Jackfish L. near Ross R. 25 May (PS). A count of 100 Mew Gulls was made at Little Salmon L., s. Yukon 17 May (PS). Ring-billed Gull is rare in the Yukon; re- ports this year included a third-cycle bird at VOlUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 463 This cooperative Northern Pygmy-Owl, the Yukon's third, was discovered 1 May 2007 calling on terri- tory at Grey Mountain in Whitehorse. It was easy to find on subsequent evenings, much to the delight of local birders. Photograph by Cameron D. Eckert. NORTHERN CANADA Wye L. in Watson Lake 17 May, an ad. there 18 May OJ). and an ad. in Mayo, cen. Yukon 19 May (ph. MOD). Herring Gull migration peaked at M’Clintock Bay with a count of 1250 on 22 Apr OJ)- The first Herring Gulls (6) arrived at Arviat, Nunavut 5 May (LJS). Seven Glaucous-winged Gulls (all first-cycle birds) were tallied during a scan of 250 Herring Gulls on the Yukon R. in Whitehorse, s. Yukon 1 May (CE). A Great Gray Owl nesting at Swan L., near Whitehorse, s. Yukon 2 May (BD, HG, YS) was using a nest occupied by a Great Horned Owl in 2006 and a Harlan’s Hawk in 2004 (fide HG). A cooperative Northern Pygmy-Owl, the Yukon’s 3rd, was discovered calling on terri- tory on Grey Mt. in White- horse 1 May (ph. CE); it stayed long enough for birders to en- joy a view the following day (PS, BD, HG, CO). The Ft. Simpson, NWT owl survey 20 Apr recorded 10 Boreal Owls (DT, SC), the highest number since its incep- tion in 2003; there was a slight increase noted in the regional small mammal trapping this year (DA), which may help to explain owl abundance. A male Rufous Hummingbird was netted and released unbanded at Teslin L., s. Yukon 13 May (ph. BSc). A Red-shafted Flick- er X Yellow-shafted Flicker intergrade was identified at a nest cavity at Carcross, s. Yukon 5 May (ph. AC); on 12 May, photographs of the bird showed the red malar stripes of the Red-shafted group, the red nape patch of the Yellow-shafted group, and reddish-yellow un- derwings (ph. CE). These are typical plumage features of coastal Red-shafteds at the n. edge of their range in se. Alaska (fide SH). A Yel- low-bellied Flycatcher, rare in the Yukon, was banded at Teslin L. 28 May (BSc). A record- early Hammond’s Flycatcher was at Carcross, s. Yukon 21 Apr (ph. BD). Single Dusky Fly- catchers, rarely seen in s. Yukon lowlands, were banded at Teslin L. 21 & 28 May (ph. BSc). Heavy snow conditions in alpine areas of s. Yukon likely accounted for sightings of Dusky Flycatchers singing in lowland areas, including one at Jackfish Bay 25 May (HG), one at Marsh L. 27 May (CE, PS), and 2 on the lower slopes of Mt. McIntyre 31 May (SF, HG et al.). A single Blue-headed Vireo was at Norman Wells, NWT 29 May (DW). At least a few Steller’s Jays survived the winter in the Yukon Southern Lakes area, as birds were reported from various locations from Mar through mid-May (m.ob.). The initiation of nesting by Common Ravens was unusually late in the Yellowknife area, NWT for unknown reasons (RB). A Black-billed Magpie, scarce in the area, was reported in Ft. Simpson, NWT 19 Apr (KL). A remarkable gathering of at least 10 American Dippers was recorded at the out- flow of Doris L., w. of Norman Wells, NWT 21 Mar (ph. GG). The first migrating Mountain Bluebirds were noted at Hay River, NWT 28 Mar (BL). Swainson’s Thrushes returned early to s. Yukon this year; 6 were seen in the Faro area 10 May (PS), and one was banded along with a Gray-cheeked Thrush at Albert Cr. 11 May (TMK). A Cape May Warbler first heard singing at Albert Cr. 26 May was banded 31 May OJ, TMK); another singing at Jackfish L. 30 May (PS) established the first record of the species for the Ross R. area, s. Yukon. A male Black-and-white Warbler, very rare but appar- ently now more regular, was recaptured at Al- bert Cr. 19 May (ph. JJ, TMK); it was origi- nally banded there 21 May 2006 (TMK). An- other Black-and-white was banded at Albert Cr. 20 May QJ, TMK). Record-early warblers banded at Albert Cr. included a Northern Wa- terthrush 5 May and 2 Common Yel- lowthroats 11 May (TMK). A male Western Tanager, w. of its range, was seen at Teslin, s. Yukon 29 May-1 Jun (ph. BSc). It was a banner year for spar- rows at Albert Cr., with record- I high numbers of Dark-eyed I Juncos (339) and of American i Tree (345), Lincoln’s (120), and Savannah Sparrows (70), | and near-record numbers of i White-crowned (219) and Fox ij (60) Sparrows (TMK). Like- ! wise, the Teslin L., s. Yukon I' banding station netted an amazing 579 White-crowned j Sparrows, which accounted for ^ 46% of the birds banded this ^ spring (JJ, BSc). A White- throated Sparrow, n. of its range, was at Arviat, Nunavut 8 May QS, f-JS); another was banded at Teslin L., s. Yukon ' 26 May (ph. BSc). Oregon Jun- cos are very rare in s. Yukon; a female was at Carcross 12 May (ph. CE); another was banded at Albert Cr. 15 May QJ, TMK). Two Smith’s Longspurs were seen at Herschel L, n. Yukon 29 May (AK). Snow Buntings were reported n. to Inuvik, NWT on about 13 Apr (CB). A late report of a blackbird pho- tographed 18 Feb (MC) at a Ft. Simpson, NWT feeder was an unusual winter record; the photographs did not allow confirmation of species. A patrol on Mt. Logan, sw. Yukon reported 2 Gray-crowned Rosy-Finches 28 May-1 Jun (LF). A female Evening Grosbeak at Canyon 30 May (ph. RRH) established the first record for sw. Yukon. Contributors (subregional editors in bold- face): Danny Allaire, Robert Bromley, Chris- tian Bucher, Malkolm Boothroyd, Wendy Boothroyd, Scott Cameron, Mike Canny, An- drew Cremata, Dennis Deneron, Boris Do- browolsky, Ron Doctor, Cameron Eckert, Lloyd Freese, Sam Fried, Helmut Griinberg, Glen Guthrie, Steve Heinl, Jukka Jantunen, Dan Kemble, Alice Kenney, Elsabe Kloppers, Ken Lambert, Bea Lepine, Ken Madsen, Ed- mund McLeod, Ted Murphy-Kelly, Jonah Nakimayak, Robert Norwegian, Clive Os- borne, Richard Popko, Don Reid, Mark O’Donoghue, Robyn Rufiange-Holway, Ben Schonewille (BSc), Betty Sutton (BSu), Jeff van den Scott, Lisa-Jo van den Scott, Pamela Sinclair, Yammy Stote, Douglas Tate (NWT), Alasdair ’Veitch, Gary Visniowski, Mary Whit- ley, Dave Wilderspin, Yukon Bird Club. O Cameron D. Eckert, 1402 Elm Street Whitehorse, Yukon, Y1 A 4B6, (cdeckert@northwestel.net) 464 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS Prairie Provinces Rudolf F. Koes Peter Taylor Spring “came grudgingly” to southern Al- berta (TK), was generally cool and wet with widespread late frosts in Saskatchewan (GK), and was interrupted in Manitoba by prolonged northerly winds in the first half of April and cool, wet weather in the second half of May. Migration was lack- luster and late overall, though there were some early arrivals for dedicated observers, especially in the passerine “gravy” for Mt. Lorette, Alberta raptor watchers. Several ob- servers remarked on relatively sparse shore- bird and warbler numbers. Only one major wave of Neotropical migrants was noted at Winnipeg 21 May. Rarities were sprinkled evenly but sparingly across the three provinces. WATERFOWL THROUGH RAPTORS A figure rarely used in these reports, one mil- lion or more Snow Geese were reported along the Souris R. in Saskatchewan 7 Apr (MB, CB) and at Davidson, SK the fol- lowing day (GK). Trumpeter Swans, mostly first-year birds, made a good showing in se. Manitoba, with up to 6 near Brightstone 29-30 May (C&LB, ph. PT) and a proba- ble 3 at Moose L. near Lake of the Woods about 20 May (fide RP). Early waterfowl arrivals included a Ross’s Goose at Windygates, MB 22 Mar (PT, RK, A&DS) and 14 Northern Pintails near Taber, AB 5 Mar (LB). As usual, there were 25+ reports of Eurasian Wigeon in s. Alberta (m.ob.), including 8 males at Fin- castle L. 24 Mar (LB). Cinnamon Teal made a fair showing in Saskatchewan, with a pair in the Qu’Appelle Valley 29 Apr (BL) and singles 26 May at Nickle L. (VT, DT) and near Morse (MD, LD). Apparently changing their migra- tion patterns in recent years. Greater Scaup were reported in large numbers throughout s. Alberta, including 211 at Pine Coulee Res. 31 Mar (TK). A male Smew photographed near Mountain View, AB 7 Apr (GKu) furnished a first provincial record, with the usual ques- tions about provenance. Rare in spring in s. Alberta, 4 Pacific Loons visited Herbert L. in Banff N.P 24 May (JH, fideJR). An American White Pelican was ear- ly at Taber 27 Mar (LB), as were 2 at Saska- toon, SK 4 Apr (NS), while one was far n. at Churchill 29 May (LM). A pair of Great Egrets returned to the Hastings L., AB breed- ing site in early May (fide JW), and one visit- ed Pense, SK 25 Apr (LS). A Cattle Egret was found near Last Mountain Wildlife Refuge, SK 14 May (RD). An ad. Yellow-crowned Night-Heron was at Oak Hammock Marsh, MB 27 May (VR et ah). Four Turkey Vultures, including 3 on 30 Apr, was a high season’s total at Mt. Lorette, with just nine previous records since 1993. Record seasonal and daily Bald Eagle totals were tallied at Windygates: 1267 between 5 Mar and 18 Apr, with a peak of 318 on 24 Mar (A&DS, m.ob.). About 60 Bald Eagles gath- ered to gorge on Richardson’s Ground Squir- rels at Pine Coulee Res. 18 Mar, along with 200+ Common Ravens (TK). Three Red- shouldered Hawks appeared in Manitoba: one near Whitemouth 25 Mar (ph. PT) and 2 at the St. Adolphe hawkwatch 30 Mar (BS, ACs). A good movement of Rough-legged Hawks included 26 near McTaggart, SK 15 Mar (VT, DT) and 80 in the White- mouth-Hadashville area, MB 15 Apr (PT). The Golden Eagle total of 2141 at Mt. Lorette, AB was 35% below the 1993-2006 average. though coverage at 1019 hours was 20% above average (PS). The 91 Golden Eagles at Windygates 5 Mar-18 Apr (A&DS, m.ob.) comprised a new season’s record for that site. SHOREBIRDS THROUGH WOODPECKERS A fine total of 323 Black-bellied Plovers was noted at Kitsim Res. near Brooks, AB 18 May (JD). Black-necked Stilts made an excellent showing in Alberta, with 300+ estimated alto- gether (TK); 7 were found between four Saskatchewan locations (m.ob.). A pair at Reed L., SK already had 3 young 31 May, but Red-shouldered Hawk is a less-than-annual visitor to Mani- toba, so three birds documented in one season was above the norm. This bird was near Whitemouth on 25 March 2007. Photograph by Peter Taylor. last year’s breeders did not return to White- water L., MB. The Whimbrel migration near Taber has become a regular feature of the Al- berta birding calendar; this year, several large flocks totalled 1458 birds 12 May (LB, m.ob.). Elsewhere, 5 Whimbrels were noteworthy near Regina 24-25 May QC, m.ob.), with a few scattered in- dividuals in s. Manitoba (m.ob.). Almost annual in the Region, a Western Sandpiper visited Tyrrell L., AB 1 May (LB). Three California Gulls were early at Calgary 7 Mar (BB). Lesser Black-backed Gulls made a good showing at Cal- gary: a second-cycle bird 18-22 Mar (RSt, m.ob.), 2 ads. 14 Apr OP m.ob.) and single ads. 29 Apr (TK) and 2 May (DF). An ad. Great Black-backed Gull paused at Grand Beach, MB 16-20 May (B&SS, ph. NSy). A first-cycle Iceland Gull visited Saskatoon 18-20 Apr (RJ, m.ob., ph.), and there was a possible Kumlien’s at Calgary 28 Apr (TK). An Arctic Tern was a surprise visitor to Blackstrap L., SK 26 May (SS, JS). Although there were at least three previous reports of Audubon's Warbler in Manitoba, this bird in Winnipeg on 2 May 2007 was the first one documented photographically. Photograph by Bob McKay. VOlUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 465 I PRAIRIE PROVINCES This first-spring male Summer Tanager at Clavet on 31 May was one of two re- ported in Saskatchewan in spring of 2007. It represents about the fifth sighting for the province. Photograph by Lou Baudru. Saskatchewan has hosted several Painted Buntings in recent years, all of them at feeders. This male, the province's fifth, was at Aberdeen on 21 April 2007. Photograph by D. Bruce. Although most European Goldfinches reported in North America no doubt in- volve escaped or released birds, they are nevertheless curiosities where they ap- pear. This bird visited an Ituna, Saskatchewan feeder from 1-4 (here 4) May 2007. Photograph by William Anderson. A Band-tailed Pigeon visited Brule, AB 29 Apr (fide JR). Eurasian Collared-Doves were reported from several s. Alberta locations, westward to Calgary (m.ob.). Eastern Screech- Owl maintains a westerly toehold at Medicine Hat, AB, where one was observed in Mar and Apr (fide DB). A noteworthy owl concentra- tion within about a square mile near Reginas Cinema Six Slough 31 Mar-7 Apr gave peak counts of 16 Snowy Owls 2 Apr OC, JN) and 27 Short-eared Owls 7 Apr (GK). Three Lewis’s Woodpeckers were ob- served in Alberta: at Mt. Lorette 10 May (PS), e. of Milk R. 25 May (BC, ET), and w. of Turner Valley 26-27 May (AC, MH). A well-described Red- bellied Woodpecker in Calgary around 1 Mar (EO, fide TK) would be an Alberta first if ac- cepted; less exceptional was one at a Seven Sisters Ealls, MB feeder 9-10 May (RLo). FLYCATCHERS THROUGH WARBLERS A Scissor-tailed Elycatcher was photographed at Dinosaur PR, AB 20-21 May (ES, MS. m.ob.). A Yellow-throated Vireo was w, of its limited Saskatchewan range at Regina 31 May (BE). Eollowing last winter’s incur- sion, a few single Gray Jays lin- gered in the Winnipeg area un- til mid-Apr (m.ob.). A male Western Bluebird was near Longview, AB, where the species has previously nested, 25 May QM, MM). A group of 3 or 4 Townsend’s Solitaires made a special hnd at Regina 16 Apr (JN, m.ob.). Single Wood Thrushes visited St. Jean Baptiste, MB 8 May (LBl) and, exceptionally far w., the Cy- press Hills, SK 31 May (RL, fide BE). At least 5 Varied Thrushes apparently wintered in Saskatchewan: one in Regina and 2 each in Saskatoon and Montgomery (m.ob.). An early American Pipit was at Pish Creek PR, AB 7 Apr (TK), while a late one at Hecla 1., MB 30 May appeared to be slightly injured (PT, RK, LV). An Audubon’s Warbler in Win- nipeg 2 May (ph. BM) was per- haps the first to be documented in Manitoba. Other noteworthy warblers were single Black-throated Blues near Last Moun- tain Lake N.W.A., SK 16 May and in Saskatoon 24-25 May (ph. NS) and a Yellow-breasted Chat near Melita, MB 29 May (KDS). TANAGERS THROUGH FINCHES In keeping with recent years, some single, wandering male tanagers were noted: Sum- mers at Regina 14 May (BL), Clavet, SK 31 May (fide NS, ph.), and Winnipeg, MB 27 May QB, NB), and Westerns in different areas 1 of Winnipeg 11 (LC) & 12 May (AD). A Green-tailed Towhee was a one-day wonder at ! Banff, AB 22 May (RS, EW). Well e. of breed- , ing range were migrant Spotted Towhees at Headingley, MB 9 May (BS) and Grant’s Lake, ' MB 10 May (KG). The season’s passerine highlight at Mt. Lorette was a Field Sparrow with a flock of Chipping Sparrows 14 May (PS). Two Black-throated Sparrows were re- 1 ported in Alberta: one at Irricana 12 May (DE, I fide TK) and another at Lethbridge 26 May-1 i Jun (DD, TD, m.ob.). A Golden-crowned ; Sparrow was well described near River Hills, j MB about 21 May (AJ.^de AE). | A male Indigo Bunting was exceptionally ' early at Delta, MB 28 Apr (AE, PE), and an- other was far w. at Black Diamond, AB 22-25 | May (RM, m.ob.). Saskatchewan’s 5th Painted Bunting visited Aberdeen 21 Apr (DBr, ph.). Unexpected in a Winnipeg city park was a Dickcissel 15 May (ph. CA). Common Red- polls lingered exceptionally late in Calgary, with the last stragglers still visiting feeders in early Jun (m.ob.). A European Goldfinch visit- ed an Ituna, SK feeder 1-4 May (SA, WA, ph.), presumably an escapee. A flock of 800 Gray- crowned Rosy-Finches was an impressive sight as the birds “swept back and forth like a cloud of smoke” at Mt. Lorette 25 Apr (PS). Observers (provincial compilers in boldface): S. Anderson, W. Anderson, C. Artuso, M. Bai- ley, D. Baresco, B. Barnetson, N. Bays, L. Ben- nett, C. Bjorklund, L. Blanchette (LBl), J. Bourgeois, D. Bruce (DBr), C. & L. Burnell, J. Clarke, B. Clibbon, L. Cocks, A. Cole, A. Courcelles (ACs), J. Davis, K. De Smet, D. Dolman, T. Dolman, L. Dudragne, M. Du- dragne, R. Dudragne, A. Dyck, D. Elphin- stone, A. Ens, P. Fast, D. Faulder, K. Gardner, J. Hagen, M. Harrison, A. Jansen, R. Johan- son, R. Koes, T. Korolyk, G. Kratzig, G. Kurtz (GKu), R. LeBlanc, R. Lofstrom (RLo), B. Luterbach, R. Manning, J, McDonald, M. Mc- Donald, L. Michael, J. Nordquist, J. Nordquist, E. Orr, R. Parsons, J. Pilny, V. Reimer, J. Rogers, B. & S. Saunders, N. Saun- ders, A. & D. Schritt, L. Scott, J. Shadick, S. Shadick, R Sherrington, B. Shettler, R. Som- merhalder, E. Spitzer, M. Spitzer, R. Storms (RSt), N. Sylvestre (NSy), P. Taylor, D. Thomas, V. Thomas, E. Tull, L. Veelma, J. Warden, E. Whittingham. O Rudolf F. Koes, 135 Rossmere Crescent Winnipeg, Manitoba R2K OGl, (rkoes@mts.net) Peter Taylor, P. 0. Box 597 Pinawa, Manitoba ROE 1L0, (taylorp@granite.mb.ca) 466 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS Northern Great Plains Ron Martin March brought average temperatures and above-average precipitation over much of the Region. April was dry throughout, with cool temperatures in the first half of the month and above-average temperatures the second half of the month. The heavy rains started in mid-May and con- tinued to the end of the period. The Red Riv- er on the North Dakota-Minnesota border ran high from mid-March to June. There were many early dates for migrant species from late March to early May, but in general the migration was spotty and num- bers were low. There were a few localized fall- outs in May, and a nice concentration of shorebirds occurred in May at Round Lake on the North Dakota-Montana border. Shorebird numbers in most of the Region were low. A first record for North Dakota, a Painted Bunting came to a feeder in early May. DUCKS THROUGH FALCONS A Eurasian Wigeon at Upper Souris N.W.R. 7 Apr provided about the 17th report for North Dakota (p.a., RR). An American Black Duck was well w. of usual haunts in Williams, ND 26 May (NDBS). Very rare in the spring sea- son, a White-winged Scoter was in Yankton, SD 8 Apr (GJS). Two Barrow’s Goldeneyes were seen in North Dakota, the 18th and 19th reports for the state. One was at Arrowwood N.W.R. 1 Apr (p.a., SS) and another in Eddy 11 Apr (p.a., SLW). A late Barrow’s Goldeneye was at Bowdoin N.W.R., MT 30 May (SD, PS). A Common Loon was early 31 Mar in Rich- land, ND (MAO), and a peak of 21 was noted 20 Apr at Ft. Peck, MT (CC). Horned and Eared Grebes were early 12 Mar in Charles Mix, SD (RM). Colonial waterbird nest counts in South Dakota turned up 6140 Double- crested Cormorant nests (ND). A new spring high count for North Dakota, 40 American Bitterns were at Kelly’s Slough N.W.R. 18 May (EEF). Casual in South Dakota, a Tricolored Heron was in Brown 15 May (p.a., ND). Ca- sual in cen. North Dakota, Green Herons were in Minot 23 May (REM) and in Sheridan 25 May OU- The Turkey Vulture in Clay, SD 16 Mar was early (NT), and the group of 33 in Brookings 21 Apr made an unusually high number for the e. Dakotas (KJ). If ac- cepted, a Mississippi Kite 18 May in Butte, SD would provide the 6th record for the state (p.a., SW, BK). A peak of 552 Red-tailed Hawks was noted 24 Mar in 1.75 hours of watch- ing along the Red R. at Grand Forks, ND (EEF). Rough-legged Hawks peaked at 115 in Grand Forks, ND 16 Mar (EEF), and a late bird was in Burke, ND 24 May (CDE). Four Peregrine Falcons were at- tending the large shorebird flock at Round L. near Westby MT 19 May (TN). SHOREBIRDS A Black-necked Stilt at Freezeout Lake N.W.R., MT 23 Mar was a month earlier than the average arrival date QN)- There were three Black-necked Stilt reports from North Dakota and one from South Dakota. A Long- billed Curlew was early 27 Mar in Custer, SD (MM). Two Long-billed Curlews in Williams, ND 8 May were a rare find n. of the Missouri R. QT, AT). Rare in Montana, 5 Hudsonian Godwits were in Valley 10 May (JC). Casual in South Dakota, a Red Knot was in Sully 20 May (p.a., RDO). Three Semipalmated Sand- pipers at Freezeout L., MT 1 Apr were a month earlier than the average arrival date (MS, JN). The 2nd earliest record for North Dakota, a Pectoral Sandpiper was at Minot 29 Mar (REM). The 2nd highest spring count for North Dakota, 80 Buff-breasted Sandpipers were at the Minot Sewage Lagoons 22 May (REM). There was one other report of this species from North Dakota and two from South Dakota. An American Woodcock was early 11 Mar in Hughes, SD (KM). In North Dakota, cold weather and snow drove Ameri- can Woodcocks to unusual localities. An indi- vidual was noted 4-13 Apr feeding along the snow-free edge of buildings on the Capitol grounds in Bismarck (CDE), and another was on the courtyard lawn at an elementary school in Grand Forks 5 Apr (DOL). Red- necked Phalarope peaked at 4460 at Bowdoin N.W.R., MT 24 May (SD, PS). A good concentration of shorebirds was noted at Round L. on the North Dakota-Montana line near Westby, MT 10 May through early Jun. At least 22 species were recorded. Peak numbers from the estimated 25,000 birds present 23 May included 10,000 Sanderlings, 5000 Stilt Sand- pipers, 5000 Semipalmated Sandpipers, 1000 White- rumped Sandpipers, 1500 Wilson's Phalaropes, 500 Red- necked Phalaropes, and 100 Baird's Sandpipers. Rare in Montana, 5 Short-billed Dowitchers, one Ruddy Turn- stone, and 4 Red Knots were seen 20 May (TN). GULLS THROUGH WOODPECKERS A potential 7th record for South Dakota, a Laughing Gull was in Pierre 26-30 May (p.a., RDO). About the 18th report for North Dako- ta, 2 ad. Little Gulls were at Devils L. 23 May (p.a., TCL, DOL, CLW, PHS). A Bonaparte’s Gull was early 28 Mar in Jamestown, ND (RBu). The only Mew Gull reported came from Pierre, SD 14-17 Mar (RDO, KM). The White-winged Dove reported last year from Beadle, SD continues at the same location in Huron QSP, BH). A possible Eurasian Col- lared-Dove x Rock Pigeon first seen last year in Pierre, SD was seen 21 Mar this year mated with a Eurasian Collared-Dove. Two nesting attempts produced two unhatched clutches (RDO). A Yellow-billed Cuckoo was early 8 May in Pierre, SD (ES). Black-billed Cuckoos were also noted earlier than average in the Dakotas. The earliest for South Dakota, a Barn Owl was in Sully 23 Mar (KM). Continuing the trend of increased sightings in North Dakota, a Barn Owl was flushed 15 Apr in Burleigh (CDE). Very rare in North Dakota, a rufous-morph Eastern Screech-Owl was in McHenry 9 May (REM). In Grand Forks, ND 72 Short-eared Owls were counted 5 Mar (EEF). A Red-naped Sapsucker was early 6 Apr in Meade, SD (AB). Pileated Woodpeckers were at J. Clark Salyer N.W.R. and Minot, ND 29 Apr (REM, JS); these provided the first county records for McHenry and Ward and the first in the Souris R. loop. FLYCATCHERS THROUGH PIPITS An Olive-sided Flycatcher was early 7 May in Union, SD (DS). An Eastern Phoebe in Clay, SD 13 Mar provided the earliest spring record for the state (DS). The Eastern Phoebe at Westby, MT 7 May would, if accepted, furnish the 10th record for the state (p.a., TN). Casu- al in South Dakota, a Cassin’s Kingbird was in Custer 25 May (RDO). A Scissor-tailed Fly- catcher photographed in Burleigh, ND 7 May was the 10th reported in the state (p.a., AV). In South Dakota, a Scissor-tailed Flycatcher in Mellette 31 May furnished the 15th report for the state (p.a., DB). A Warbling Vireo 29 Apr in Clay tied the earliest date for South Dakota (GJS). In North Dakota, a Plumbeous Vireo 14-17 May in Fargo provided the 5th report for the state and the 3rd documented (p.a., PB, RHO, GEM). The winter Gray Jay invasion in North Dakota ended with the last sighting 17 Apr in Grand Forks (DOL). Three Purple Martins around a nest box in Westby 30 May led to speculation about a first nesting for Montana (TN). Pygmy Nuthatch reports from the Black Hills of South Dakota have been on the increase recently. This spring, there were eight reports from three counties. VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 467 NORTHERN GREAT PLAINS A Blue-gray Gnatcatcher was early 21 Apr in Union, SD (DS); three North Dakota reports spanned 5-15 May. A Hermit Thrush was ear- ly 29 Mar in Cass, ND (MAO). Two Wood Thrush reports from North Dakota were both far w. of usual haunts. A single was in McHen- ry 19 May (REM), and another was at Bow- man 25 May (TCL, PHS, CLW). The Curve- billed Thrasher that wintered s. of Roundup, MT was last seen 13 Apr (LH). An American Pipit was early 31 Mar in McHenry, ND (REM). Territorial Sprague’s Pipits were nu- merous in much of North Dakota this spring. Peaks of up to 30 per day were noted in McHenry, ND. WARBLERS Five Golden-winged Warbler reports from the e. Dakotas spanned 5-27 May. An early North- ern Parula was in Lake, SD 21 Apr QSP). Cape May Warblers w. of the usual path included a single 12 May in Stark, ND QWH), and one in Glasgow, MT 14 May (p.a., DE). The 14th record for Montana, if accepted, a Black- throated Blue Warbler was in Plentywood 27 May (p.a., CP). Rare in Montana, a Black- throated Green Warbler was in Ft. Peck 16 May (p.a., JC). The 6th record for South Dako- ta, if accepted, a Black-throated Gray Warhler was in Union 9 May (p.a., NT). Providing the 11th report for North Dakota, a Worm-eating Warbler was photographed 23 May in Grand Forks (TCL, DOL, PHS, CLW). A Prairie War- bler 27 May+ in Lincoln, SD would, if accept- ed, furnish the 10th record for the state (p.a., RDO, JSP). Connecticut Warblers made a stel- lar showing in North Dakota, with 15 reports and a peak of 7 in Kidder 27 May (PHS). TANAGERS THROUGH GOLDFINCHES Two Summer Tanager reports were singles at Pierre, SD 13-14 May (p.a., KM, DB) and in Stutsman, ND 26 May (p.a., WM). A potential 11th record for South Dakota, a Green-tailed Towhee was in Pennington 13 May (p.a., JF). An Eastern Towhee was early 11 Apr in Clay, SD (GJS), and a Spotted Towhee was e. of nor- mal in Grand Forks, ND 26-28 Apr (DOL). Now a casual migrant in the Dakotas, a Mc- Cown’s Longspur was early and e. of their nor- mal route in Stanley, SD 15 Apr (DB, RDO). A Lazuli Bunting was early 29 Apr in Stanley, SD (RDO). A male Painted Bunting at a feeder in Stark 1-2 May provided the long-awaited first record for North Dakota OPL. CDE, LL). The 2nd earliest for North Dakota, a Dickcissel was in Jamestown 3 May (SS). A Pine Gros- beak was a rare visitor in Et. Peck, MT 24 Mar QC). Casual in cen. South Dakota, a Hoary Redpoll was in Hughes 1 Mar (RDO). About the 10th report for Montana, a Lesser Goldfinch was in Poplar 22 May (p.a., LL). A Chaffinch photographed 23 Apr in Ward, ND (SH, REM) was certainly an escapee. Contributors (state editors in boldface): MONTANA: Chuck Carlson, Jean Carlson, ■ John Carlson, Steve Dinsmore, Donna Enebo, Luther Harris, Lisa Lister, Ted Nordhagen, John Nordrum, Caleb Putnam, Mike Schwit- ters, Paul Skrade. NORTH DAKOTA: Patrick Beauzay Rachel Bush, Corey D. Ellingson, Eve E. Freeberg, Sue Hill, Justin W. Hoff, David O. j Lambeth, Joe Lautenbauch, Jack P Lefor, Tim C. Lenz, LouAnn Letang, William Marengo, Ron E. Martin, Gary E. Nielsen, North Dakota j Birding Society, Robert H. O’Connor, Mark A. Otnes, Russ Rytter, Steve Stucker, Joe Super, Peder H. Svingen, Analene Torgerson, Jim j Torgerson, Alan Van Norman, Stacy L. Whipp, | Chris L. Wood. SOUTH DAKOTA: Doug Backlund, Anna Ball, Nancy Drilling, Jennifer Eowler, Bill Huser, Kent Jensen, Brian King, Ron Mabie, Kenny Miller, Michael Melius, Ricky D. Olson, Jeffrey S. Palmer, Gary and Jan Small, Eileen Stukel, Dave Swanson, Nathan Thomas, Scott Weins. Ron Martin, 16900 125th Street SE Sawyer, North Dakota 58781-9284, (jrmartin@ndak.net) Southern Great Plains W. Ross Silcock Joseph A. Grzybowski Early, early, early arrivals seemed to be an overriding theme of the season across taxonomic groups from shorebirds to swallows, flycatchers to warblers. However, the scattering of eastern birds west and west- ern birds east was less evident this season than in many previous seasons. The effects of very heavy rains, especially across more southerly stretches of the Region, persist, both in disruptions of breeding cycles and in augmentations of wetland areas. West- ern Nebraska, by contrast, was very dry. Tbe season was strangely interesting, and strange- ly dull, as it just seems to be harder and hard- er to find substantial concentrations of Neotropical migrants, althougb “digging around” still has its rewards. Abbreviations: Hackberry (Hackberry Flat W.M.A., Tillman, OK); Hefner (L. Hefner, Oklahoma, OK); McConaughy (L. Mc- Conaugby, Keith, NE); Quivira (Quivira N.W.R., Stafford, KS); Rainwater Basin (playas in s.-cen. and se. Nebraska); Red Slough (Red Slough W.M.A., McCurtain, OK); Tenkiller (L. Tenkiller, Sequoyah, OK). WATERFOWL THROUGH IBIS The only regular Regional site for Black-bel- lied Whistling-Duck is McCurtain, OK; best count there was 20 on 20 May (DA). Two Black-bellieds farther n. in Tulsa, OK 12 May were unexpected (BC). Clearly a Regional “zootie,” 4 Fulvous Whistling-Ducks were seen at Tishomingo N.W.R., Johnston, OK 30 Apr (EBr, JRe). Best Snow Goose counts were 350,000 between Gothenburg and Kearney, NE 4 Mar (SB), and 200,000 at Harvard Marsb 16 Mar (PD). Two Snows, one injured, were in Cimarron, OK 11 QW) & 18 May (JAG). A Ross’s Goose in Tulsa, OK 11 Apr (LMc) was tardy. Tundra Swan, now the rarer of the native swans, was reported from Quivi- ra 3 Mar-1 Apr (family group of 5; SS, m.ob.), with 3 at Rowe Sanctuary, Buffalo, NE 4 Mar 468 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS SOUTHERN GREAT PLAINS An American Binern nest discovered 15 May 2007 in Harper County, Oklahoma pro- vides the first nesting record for Oklahoma in 50 years. Photograph by Eric Beck. (SB, KS). Trumpeters were reported s. to Mc- Curtain, OK, where 2 birds remained through 24 Mar (DA, BH, m.ob.). Almost regular in Nebraska, a Eurasian Wigeon was in York 6 Mar (RE). Certainly a sight, 50 Cinnamon Teal were in Scotts Bluff, NE 22 Apr (KD). Easterly Cinnamon Teal were in Lancaster, NE 22 Mar OGJ) and Neosho, KS 6 Mar (MG). About 20 Greater Scaup were reported in Nebraska and Kansas, with the latest 15 Apr in Sedgwick, KS (PJ) and 24 Apr in Dakota, NE (BFH). Scoters, rare in spring, included Surfs in Harper, KS 1 Apr (PJ, CGs, KG) and Phelps, NE 6 May (KS) and White-wingeds in Cedar, NE 4-9 Mar (RD, MB), Platte, NE 19 Mar (RE), and Tulsa, OK 4- 18 Mar QW, ME, m.ob.). The rarest. Black Scoter, was represented by one in Tulsa, OK, 4- 18 Mar OW, ME, m.ob.). Also rare in the Re- gion, Long-tailed Ducks were reported in Tul- sa, OK 10-18 Mar (PR, DRe), Sioux, NE 28 Mar (WF), and Sedgwick, KS 15 Apr (PJ), lat- ter a late date. A female Common Goldeneye in Sarpy, NE 12 May (CNK) was also tardy. Greater Prairie-Chicken is doing well in se. Nebraska and is adapting to non-traditional habitat by establishing leks in crop fields and in public wetland areas, even adjacent to wa- ter (fide WRS). A count of 48 Lesser Prairie- Chickens in Harper, OK 2 Mar (K&SM, WL) was encouraging. Tenkiller again provided a loon sweep. Two Yellow-billed Loons were noted there 31 Mar with 3 Red-throated Loons QWA). Up to 2 Pacific Loons were observed there 6-31 Mar (SH, RP, m.ob.), among a max- imum of 137 Common Loons counted 5 Mar (SBe). Away from Tenkiller, a Red-throated was at Hefner 3-10 Mar (L&MT, JW). A Homed Grebe in Keith, NE 20 May (JMi) was late. Western and Clark’s Grebes reported in winter remained through at least 7 Mar in Co- manche, OK (K63:SM et al.), with and another Western at Tenkiller 31 Mar (]WA). A few Neotropic Cormorants moved northward to Coffey, KS again by 11 Mar (M&EL), with an excellent tally of 11 in Cowley, KS 12 Apr (GY), but only one was found at Red Slough, that 11 & 17 Apr (DA). The 5000 Double-crested Cormorants in Lancaster 13 Apr (RE) was a record spring count for Ne- braska. American Bitterns were in good numbers at Quivira 16 May, when 13 were tallied (HH). Sightings of this species in at Red Slough spanned 13 Mar (one; DA) through 30 May (6; DA et al.); breeding was documented, with a nest located in Harp- er, OK 15 May (EBe). The only Nebraska re- port of Least Bittern was of one in Clay 28 May (PD). Tricolored Herons were seen in Tulsa, OK 29 Apr (BC) and as far n. as Riley, KS 29 Apr (CG). Early Cattle Egrets were in Otoe, NE 26 Mar (L&CF), record early, and also in Tulsa, OK 26 Mar (JSi). An early wan- dering White Ibis was in Canadian, OK 15 May (TU), as was the unexpectedly large group of 30 at Red Slough by 20 Mar (DA). Glossy Ibis reports continue to pepper the Region, up to 2 at Hack- berry 13 Apr- 15 May (L&MT) and sin- gles in Sedgwick, KS 20 May (PJ) and Sarpy, NE 25 May (EB), plus 2-6 at Red Slough 10-31 May (DA, BH). A White- faced Ibis appeared at Red Slough 10 May (DA, BH), with as many as 13 there on 31 May (DA). RAPTORS THROUGH TERNS Northwesterly Black Vultures have in- creased in the past few years; this sea- son, one was in Sedgwick, KS 31 Mar (GY), up to 8 were in Comanche, OK 25 Apr (fide MH), and 2 were in Oklahoma, OK 15 Apr (NV). A pair of Ospreys was at a nest in McIntosh, OK 19 May (LR) for perhaps the 4th nesting attempt in Oklahoma. Mississippi Kites away from the Ogallala, NE breeding site included one in Lancaster 1 May (LE), with another still extralimital in Johnson, KS 20 Apr (MC). A westerly Broad-winged Hawk was in Morton, KS 19 Apr (DW). A Regional first (and quite a surprise) was the Zone-tailed Hawk roosting with 6 Turkey Vultures in Keith, NE 25 Apr (CBr, VOB, SK; ph.); it could not be relocated 28 Apr (MB). A Golden Eagle wintering in the e. part of the Region was in McCurtain, OK 1 Mar (DA). Peregrine Falcons were widespread throughout the Region, with early migrants by 25 Mar in Comanche, OK QAG) and Tillman, OK (L&MT); one 19 May at Hackberry (L&MT) was rather late. Black Rail is reported regularly from Quivi- ra, where 1-2 were found 16 (HH) & 26 May (CG). It is probably more widespread in the Region than records indicate, as suggested by the presence of 1-2 at Hackberry 28-29 May (EBe). The only King Rails reported were 2 at Red Slough 27 Apr-1 May (DA, BH). A Vir- ginia Rail in Pratt, KS 6 Mar (M&ER) may have wintered there, and another at Hackber- ry 28 May (L&MT) was late. A Sora in Cimar- ron, OK 21 Apr (DWo) was farther w. than ex- pected. The 1-2 Purple Gallinules at Red Slough 10-31 May (DA, BH) maintained this Regional outpost for the species. Rare any- where in the Region, up to 4 Common Moorhens at Red Slough 25 Apr-30 May (DA, BH) were perhaps less of a surprise than the single in Seward, NE 17 May GO- An incred- ible 200,000 Sandhill Cranes were in the cen. Platte Valley, NE 12 Apr (CH). A Common Crane with about 1000 Sandhill Cranes was reported on private property e. of Lewellen, Garden, NE 10 Mar (PH). A Whooping Crane with Sandhills “on the Platte River” in Ne- braska 16 Mar was thought to be the individ- ual that has now spent its 3rd winter there (TS). In addition, about 65 migrant Whoop- ings were reported in the Region 17 Mar-3 May (fide WRS, Jide LM, Jide JAG). Rare in the Oklahoma Panhandle were 1-2 Black-bellied Plovers in Cimarron 13 QW) & 17 May QW, MP). Early arriving American Golden-Plovers were 3 in Tulsa, OK 10 Mar (LMc) and 5 in Clay, NE 19 Mar (PD), the lat- ter one day shy of being record early for the Representing only the fourth reported nesting of Osprey in Oklahoma was this nest at Lake Eufala, McIntosh County, Oklahoma (photograph taken 19 May 2007). Photograph by Lorrame Richmond. VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 469 SOUTHERN GREAT PLAINS Charles Brown, Valerie O'Brien, and Sarah Knute picked this Zone-tailed Hawk out of a Turkey Vul- ture roost near Lake McConaughy, Keith County, Nebraska 25 April 2007. Photograph by UNKNOWN PHOTOGRAPHER. slate. The single Snowy Plover in Oklahoma, OK 10 Mar (JW) and the 15 at Hackberry 15 Mar (L&MT) were also rather early. A Snowy banded at Quivira 16 Jnn 2005 was seen there 7 Apr (SS, M&ER). Piping Plover is a low-density migrant in the Re- gion, so reports of 9 in the w. half of Oklahoma 14-28 Apr (fide JAG) and 5-10 at Quivira 29 Apr (DF) were of interest. Very early was one in Saunders, NE 2 Apr (RHe). Mountain Plovers were found at regular locations in Cimarron, OK 11- 18 May (1-2; JW, G&MK) and Kimball, NE 26 Mar (LS). Among an onslaught of early arrivals were 2 Black-necked Stilts at Hackberry 25 Mar (L&MT) and 6 in Sheridan, NE 12 Apr (WM). Once rare in the Region, numbers of Black- neckeds have increased sub- stantially; 29 were in Sheridan, NE 8 Apr (L&MT), with 100-r at Quivira 3 May (M&ER) and 72 at Hackberry 13 May (L&MT). Among early arrivals at Hackberry were 6 American Avocets 21 Mar (L&MT), 4 Lesser Yellowlegs 4 Mar (L&MT), and a Spotted Sand- piper 8 Apr (L&MT). Also early were 6 Less- er Yellowlegs at Red Slough 13 Mar (DA). A rare migrant, Whimbrel reports came only from Oklahoma: the peak count at Hackberry was 4 on 26 Apr, with at least one present 22 Apr-15 May (L&MT, EBe, m.ob.); one was in Cimarron 11 May QW); and 2 were in Tulsa 1 May (BC). An amazing 3000-1- Long-billed Curlews coming to a roost in Finney, KS 29 Mar (T&SS) must have been a sight to be- hold; still a good number was the 30 in Haip- er, OK 25 Mar (EBe). Marbled Godwits are low-density migrants, making the 37 at Hack- berry 16 Apr an unusual count (L&MT). Ruddy Turnstones appeared in excellent numbers, including a remarkable 44 in Se- ward, NE 19 May OGJ)- Elsewhere, 20 were reported 4-24 May in Nebraska (fide WRS), 3 in Kansas 15-17 May (MG, GP), and 4 in Oklahoma 11-19 May (L&MT, MJ, SBe). Rarer westward, a Sanderling was in Cimar- ron, OK 17-18 May (MP). Reports of Semi- palmated Sandpiper in early Mar are normal- ly considered misidentifications; however, 9 were nicely documented at Hackberry 4 Mar, and 2-5 were there 10-29 Mar (L&MT). West- ern Sandpiper is usually scarce in the Region in spring, thus the 200-t at Quivira 21 Apr (SS) was an unexpectedly high count. The 3 at Hackberry 25 Mar (L&MT) added to the list of early migrant shorebird species. Four thousand White-rumped Sandpipers in the e. Rainwater Basin 17 May QGJ) was an excel- lent count, as was the tally of 2275 Bairds Sandpipers at Hackberry 15 Apr (L&MT). The 42 Bairds at Hackberry' 4 Mar (L&MT) were early. Pectoral Sandpipers numbered 350 in Thayer, NE 11 May 0Q])> and Dunlins showed in record numbers in Nebraska, with 235 in the e. Rainwater Basin 17 May, 133 of these at a single York site OGJ). and an addi- tional 250 reported 2-24 May (fide WRS). Up to 3 Dunlins at Hackberry 10 Mar-22 Apr (L&MT) are part of an emerging pattern of occurrence before mid-Apr in the Region. A record-early arrival was a Stilt Sandpiper at Hackberry 15 Mar (L&MT), with the 5 in Se- ward 4 Apr (LE) the 2nd earliest on record in Nebraska. Good tallies of Buff-breasted Sand- piper came from all three states, with 250 in the e. Rainwater Basin 17 May OGJ). “Tl in Sedgwick, KS 20 May (PJ), and 40 in McClain, OK 10 May QAG). Short-billed Dowitchers passed through in timely fashion, with 60 in Ne- braska 10-20 May (fide WRS) and 46 in Tulsa, QK 7 May QWA). Long-billeds continued the early surge, with 197 at Hackberry by 4 Mar (L&MT) and a peak count of 4500 there on 22 Apr (L&MT). American Woodcock reports are becom- ing more numerous to the n. and w. of typical range in Ne- braska, with one in Lincoln 27 Mar (TJW) and 2 in Cherry 23 Mar (WE). A Wilson’s Phala- rope in Scotts Bluff 17 Mar (AK) was record early by a day for Nebraska, and 2 at Hackberry 29 Mar (L&MT) were also quite early. The best count of Wilson’s Phalaropes was the impressive 6000 at Hackberry 29 Apr (L&MT). Breeding of Wilson’s in the e. Rainwater Basin is only sporadic; thus copulation 9 May QGJ) and two nests each with four eggs in Clay 14 & 29 May (PD) were significant finds. Rare eastward was a Red- necked Phalarope in Sarpy 22- 26 May (CNK, EB,JR). Two Laughing Gulls trekked in at the end of the season in Douglas, KS 21 May (GP) and Hefner the next day (PV), while an ad. Little Gull in Lancaster, NE 13 Mar QGJ) was Nebraska’s 11th in spring. An east- erly California Gull was in Lancaster 24 Mar (D&JP), with sightings of singles at Hefner 3 & 20 Mar QAG, TG) and another on 3 Mar at L. Overholser, Oklahoma (L&MT). Tardy for Qklahoma was a Thayer’s Gull in Oklahoma 3 Mar (L&MT); only one other was reported, an ad. at McConaughy 1 Mar OQJ). Occur- ring with regularity these days. Lesser Black- backed Gulls were in Lancaster 10 & 13 Mar OGJ) and at McConaughy 28 Apr (MB). Glaucous Gulls in Lancaster, NE 9-11 Mar QGJ, LE, CNK) and Harlan, NE 4 Mar (G&WH) were the only reports. Three Com- mon Terns were in Nebraska 10-30 May (PD, JMi, MB). The 4 Black Terns in Harper, OK 22 Apr (EBe) were early. ROADRUNNER THROUGH WAXWiNGS Greater Roadrunner continues to creep north- ward in Kansas; 8 individuals were reported in five s.-cen. counties n. to Stafford (fide LM) — but the real n. pioneer was one in s. Chase 30 Apr QP)- Black-billed Cuckoos, usually un- common, were found 20 May in Tulsa (TM) and the next day in Cherokee, OK (D&JV), 470 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS SOUTHERN GREAT PLAINS with 5 more reported in Nebraska (L63:CF, JR, JMi). Burrowing Owls are re-occupying e. Rainwater Basin sites at the e. edge of the range in Nebraska, with reports from three sites in Clay 0GJ> PD)- An excellent count of Burrowing Owls was the 30+ on Nature Con- servancy land in Barton, KS 14 Apr (SS, DK), while one showed up early in Geary, KS 22 Mar (C&JO). Barred Owls continue to expand westward along the Republican R. into Nuck- olls, NE, with 1-2 noted 1 Apr (LRa, RH) and a single 20 Apr (DE). The only Northern Saw- whet Owl reported was one quite out of range in Sedgwick, KS 17 Mar (LH). A Chuck-will’s-widow in Comanche, OK 23 Mar OAG) was early, as were Whip-poor-wills in LeFlore, OK 25 Mar (B63:NL) and Osage, OK 26 Mar (MP). Other early arrivals were 3 Chimney Swifts in Tulsa, OK 20 Mar (TC), vAth Ruby-throated Hummingbirds in McCur- tain, OK 21 Mar (MH) and Delaware, OK the sam-e day (EW), and Black- chinned Hummingbirds as early as 20 (D&CS) & 25 Mar in Co- manche, OK (K63:SM) and in Grady 25 Mar (DL). A few Black- chinneds e. and n. of usual includ- ed singles in McClain 7 Apr (M&JE) and Payne 17 Apr (O&TT). Convincing details were provided for a Red-naped Sapsuck- er as far e. as Hall, NE 5 Mar (WE). Somewhat northerly in Oklahoma was a Ladder-backed Woodpecker in Harper 29 Apr (EBe). A Western Wood-Pewee in Lin- coln, NE 19 May (CNK) was at the e. edge of its range. The only Yel- low-bellied Elycatcher reported was in Lancaster, NE 21 May (KP). An Acadian Flycatcher in Payne, OK 23 May (TO) was w. of the usual range. Cordilleran Flycatch- er is rarely reported in migration in the Region; one was in s. Sioux, NE 30-31 May (HKH). The local Vermilion Flycatchers had re- turned to Cimarron, OK by 21 Apr (DW); a female was there 12 & 19 May QW, MP). An early Ash-throated Fly- catcher was in Tillman, OK 23 Mar (L&MT), with 2 n. to Harper, OK 22 & 29 Apr (EBe). Yet another early migrant was a Cassin’s King- bird in Cimarron, OK 21 Apr (DW); it was clearly outdone by an Eastern Kingbird as far n. as Riley, KS 23 Mar (CG). Scissor-tailed Flycatcher reports were led by one in McCur- tain 21 Mar (BH). Scissor-tailed have estab- lished themselves as breeders n. to Buffalo (KS) and Sarpy, NE QT). More early arrivals included White-eyed Vireo in Cleveland 21 Mar (RG), with 2 each in Comanche, OK 22 Mar (K&SM) and McCurtain, OK the same day (BH). The only report of Plumbeous Vireo was of a migrant in Scotts Bluff, NE 16 May (BN). A Blue-headed Vireo, rare west- ward, was in Harlan, NE 11 May (G&WH). Two Yellow-throated Vireos in McCurtain, OK 22 Mar (BH) were also early. A Philadelphia Vireo in Scotts Bluff, NE 26 May (KD) was only the 4th for the Nebraska Panhandle. Playing the early arrival game in almost tree- less terrain was a Red-eyed Vireo in Tillman 21 Mar (L&MT), with another in McCurtain 1 Apr (MR). Some 2152 Blue Jays in Payne, OK 21 Apr (SMc) made a splendid tally. Fish Crows ex- panding westward up river systems were one in Oklahoma, OK 30 Mar (NV) and as many as 19 in Sedgwick, KS 7 May (LH). A careful- ly identified Common Raven, a rare visitor in extreme sw. Kansas, was in Morton 12 Apr (SS, TCa). Three early Tree Swallows were in Harlan, NE 18 Mar (G&WH), while an early Barn Swallow made it to Red Slough 4 Mar (DA), with 2 in Johnston, OK two days later (DWo). Creeping northward was a Tufted Tit- mouse in Thurston, NE 17 May (BFH). The latest Red-breasted Nuthatch reported was in Omaha 21 May (RS). Occasional in nw. Okla- homa, a Canyon Wren appeared in Ellis 31 Mar (ES). Two subspecies of Marsh Wren oc- cur in Nebraska; the first singing Marsh Wrens on territory were westerners in Holt, NE 23 Mar (WF). The only Veeries reported were 2 in Sarpy, NE 8 May (NE), one in Johnson, KS 10 May (MG), and one in Cherokee, OK 2 May (MP, MD, SH). A Gray-cheeked Thrush in se. Gar- den, NE 20 May QMi) was a rarity that far w., and a Swainson’s Thrush in Otoe, NE was record early 16 Apr (L&CF). Wood Thrushes in Cleveland, OK 27 Apr (DKa) and 26 May OAG) were rare w. sightings. An early Gray Catbird was in Johnston, OK 19 Mar (EBr). Ne- braska’s 7th Curve-billed Thrasher was found in Perkins 22 Apr QGJ); Nebraska’s 6th, the long-staying male in se. Sioux, was observed trying to make a nest in mid-Apr (fide AK). WARBLERS THROUGH FINCHES Rare anywhere in the Region, 2 Blue-winged Warblers in Scotts Bluff, NE 8 May (AD, KD) made only the 4th spring Panhandle record; singles were in Cherokee, OK 2 May (MP, MD, SH) and in LeFlore, OK 24 May (G&MK). Seven Golden-winged Warblers were reported along the e. edge of the Region in the very short period 5-9 May (fide WRS, fide LM, fide JAG). Westerly Northern Pandas were one in Mor- ton, KS 21 Apr (DW) and 2 in Co- manche, OK 1 Apr (K&SM); rather early were singles in Washington, OK (MP) and Tulsa, OK (AR), both 21 Mar. Cape May Warbler, a Regional “zootie,” made an out- standing showing, with 3 in Ne- braska 7-17 May (LE, ST, JGJ) and 3 in Kansas 8-13 May (CL, MHi et al.). Kansas had the only Black- throated Blue Warblers, singles in Johnson 13 May (MHi et al.) and Kiowa 18 May (M&ER et al.). A Black-throated Gray Warbler in Morton, KS 21 Apr (DW) was un- expected. Westerly was a Black- burnian Warbler in Oklahoma, OK 7-8 May (NV), with others in Tul- sa 16 (GK) & 19 May (BC). Yel- low-throated Warblers arrived ear- ly in all three states: 19 Mar in Ok- mulgee, OK 0^). 29 Mar in Leavenworth, KS OS), and 1 Apr in Sarpy, NE (RS). Quite un- expected was a Prairie Warbler w. to Cheny, NE 28 May (GW). Rare in spring, 6 Bay- breasted Warblers were reported (fide WRS, fide LM, JideJAG), most westerly a bird in Co- manche, OK 28 May (L&MT, K&SM), with another rather late in LeFlore, OK 24 May (G&MK). Usually an early migrant. Black- and-white Warblers appeared at Red Slough 13 Mar (DA), with as many as 8 in McClain, OK by 18 Mar (PM). Prothonotary Warblers This Eastern Screech-Owi at Black Mesa State Park, Oklahoma 18 May 2007 was in Cimarron County, where only Western Screech-Owl had ever been recorded. Photograph by Joseph A. Grzybowski. VOLUME 61 (2007) NUMBER 3 471 SOUTHERN GREAT PLAINS This Golden-crowned Sparrow, Nebraska's fourth documented, was in Sioux County 4 May 2007. Photo- graph by Bruce and Donna Walgren. leading the pack were singles in Johnston, OK 30 Mar (DWo) and McCurtain, OK 2 Apr (MR). Rare away from e. Okla- homa and Kansas, Worm-eat- ing Warblers were found in McClain, OK 30 Apr (M&JF) and Sedgwick, KS 6 May (PG). A McCurtain, OK specialty, 2-3 Swainsons Warblers were at Little River N.W.R. 21-23 Apr (MR). Early were Louisiana Waterthrushes in Washington, OK 14 Mar (MD) and Tulsa 19 Mar (TM) and a Kentucky Warbler in McCurtain, OK 1 Apr (MR). Another warbler “zootie,” Connecticut War- blers were located in Washing- ton, OK 8-9 May (MP et al.), Douglas, NE 12- 13 May (TP), and Sarpy, NE 12 May (L&BP). blooded Warblers in McCurtain, OK 24 Mar (DA) and 1 Apr (MR) were also a bit early. A Summer Tanager, subspecies undeter- mined, was photographed in Scotts Bluff, NE 23 Apr (KD), a record-early date, with anoth- er in McCurtain, OK 2 Apr (MR). On the e. edge of migration corridors were a Western Tanager in Morton, KS 10 May (LL) and a Green-tailed Towhee in Morton 12 May OPV). Spotted Towhees lingered in Comanche, OK through 23 May (VE) and in Lancaster, NE 24 May (LE). A phenotypically typical (but silent) Eastern Towhee was at McConaughy 21 Apr (BEH), far w. of the usual summer range in Nebraska. Going far eastward was a Canyon Towhee in Gove, KS 7 May QPV). A surprise for both location and date was a male Lark Bunting in York, NE 4 Apr (LE). Early Grasshopper Sparrows were in Hall, NE 26 Mar (DKi) and Geary, KS 25 Mar (BS). Early enough to suggest local wintering, 2 Henslow’s Sparrows were at Red Slough 4 Mar (DA); one was there 27 Mar (DA). Seven Henslow’s were found in a lightly grazed pas- ture in Otoe, NE 12 May (WRS). Late-migrat- ing Nelson’s Sharp-tailed Sparrows were found at Red Slough 15 May (DA) and in Lan- caster, NE 21 May (KP). A Harris’s Sparrow at Red Slough 22 May (DA) was very late that far south. A Golden-crowned Sparrow was in Riley, KS 7 Mar (LJ, CG), and Nebraska’s 9th was in Sioux 4 May (B&DW). “Hundreds” of Lapland Longspurs migrating over McCo- noughy 21 Apr (BPH,JPr) were quite late. Northern Cardinals at the nw. edge of the range in Nebraska were a pair in Scotts Bluff 16 May (KD) and singles in Blaine 24 Mar (WE) and Thomas 25 Mar (WE). A Rose- breasted Grosbeak in Washington, OK 18 Apr (MP) was early, as was one in Riley, KS 16 Apr (DR); a Black-headed was e. to Tulsa, OK 27 Apr (D63:RJ). Also easterly were Black- headeds in Riley, KS 9 May (MM), Sarpy, NE 12 May (EB), and Knox, NE 14-15 May (MB). At least 10 Lazuli Buntings were reported from e. portions of the Region 5-20 May (fide WRS, fide LM, fide JAG), an above-average number. Painted Buntings at the edge of their range in Kansas were noted 1-11 May to Ri- ley (CG), Geary (C&JO), and Douglas (KR). The only reports of the apparently declining Rusty Blackbird were of 1-2 in Dixon, NE 11- 22 Mar (JJ) and 2 females in Lancaster, NE 22 Mar (LE). An early Bullock’s Oriole was in Comanche, OK 17 Apr (L6iMT), and another was easterly in Arthur, NE 20 May (CNK). The only reports of Red Crossbill were of sin- gles in Scotts Bluff, NE 12 & 26 May (AK). Only one Common Redpoll was reported: a male first seen during winter which re-ap- peared after an absence at a feeder in Wayne, NE 15-16 Mar QJ)- Only moderate numbers of Pine Siskins were reported, the top counts being of 25-30 in Scotts Bluff, NE 29 Mar-5 Apr (AK). A surprising 6 or so Lesser Goldfinches found their way to Grant, KS 28 Mar and 11 Apr, as well as a pair 27 Apr (KH). In addition, single Lessors were in Mc- Clain, OK 18 Mar (M&JE), Finney, KS 26-27 Apr (T&SS), and Scotts Bluff, NE 25 May (fide AK). Cited observers (area editors in boldface): NEBRASKA: Elliott Bedows, Mark Brogie, Charles Brown (CBr), Steve Brown, Kathy De- Lara, Roger Dietrich, Ann Duey, Paul Dunbar, Rick Eades, David Ealy Larry Einemann, Lar- ry & Carol Falk (L&CF), Nelli Falzgraf, William Flack, Joe Gubanyi, Carolyn Hall, Robin Harding, Renae Held (RHe), Pat Heller, Glen & Wanda Hoge (G&WH), Helen K. Hughson, Bill E Huser, Jan Johnson, Joel G. Jorgensen, Alice Kenitz, Dan Kim (DKi), Clem N. Klaphake, Sarah Knute, Jeanne Miller OMi), Wayne Mollhoff, Brent Nelson, Valerie O’Brien (VOB), Don & Jan Paseka (D&JP), Theresa Pester, Kevin Poague, Jerry Probst OPt), Larry Ran- dolph (LRa), Justin Rink, Rick Schmid, W. Ross Silcock, Lar- ry Snyder, Tom Stehn, Kent Skaggs, Scott Taylor, Jerry Toll, Bruce & Donna Walgren (B&DW), T.J. Walker, Gordon Warrick. KANSAS: Ted Cable (TCa), Mark Corder, Dave Fis- cher, Matt Gearheart, Cory Gregory, Chet Gresham (CGs), Paul Griffin, Kevin Groe- neweg, Helen Hands, Leon Hicks, Monica Higgins (MHi), Pete Janzen, Lowell Johnson, Don Kazmaier, Mark & Eileen Land (M&EL), Catherine Lewis, Lori Lind, Aaron Mitchell, Lloyd Moore, Marge Muenzenberger, Chuck & Jaye Otte (C&JO), Gerry Parkinson, Jerrod Pearce, Mike & Ellen Rader (M&ER), Karyn Riney, David Rintoul, Brett Sandercock, Scott Seltman, Terry Seltman (TSe), Tom & Sarah Shane (T&SS), John Schukman, J. Pat Valen- tik, David Wiggins, Gene Young. OKLAHO- MA: Tom Alford, David Arbour, James W. Arterburn, Sandy Berger (SBe), Eric Beck (EBe), Earl Brewer (EBr), Cyndie Browning, Bill Carrell, Tom Curtis, Matt Droege, Victor Fazio, Matt & Jenny Foster (M&JF), Max Fuller, Joseph A. Grzybowski, Richard Gunn, Suzy Harris, Berlin Heck, Marcia Hodgson, Mike Husack, Mary Jackson (MJa), David & Rebecca John (D&RJ), Matt Jung, George & Marty Kamp (G&MK), Debby Kaspari (DKa), Sarah Knute, Dick Ledbetter , Bob & Nancy LeVal (B&NL), Jo Loyd, Scott McConnell (SMc), Lynn McRill (LMc), Kurt & Sharon Meizenzahl (K&SM), Terry Mitchell, Tim O’Connell (TO), Mark Peterson, Randy Porter, Jona Reasor QRe), Mia Revels, Duane Reynolds (DRe), Paul Ribitzki, Loraine Rich- mond, Alicia Riddle (ARi), Frank Sandford, Jana Singletary QSi), Dennis & Carol Stayer (D&CS), Eddie Stegal, Olen & Teresa Thomas (O&TT), Lou & Mary Truex (L&MT), Terry Underhill, Don & Joyce Varn- er (D&JV), Nancy Vicars, Cynthia Whittier, Elbe Womack, Doug Wood (DWo), Jimmy Woodard. O W. Ross Sikock, P.O. Box 57, Tabor, Iowa 51653 (silcock@rosssilcock.com) Joseph A. Grzybowski, 715 Elmwood Drive Norman, Oklahoma 73072 (j_grzybowski@sbcglobal.net) 472 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS Texas Mark W. Lockwood Eric Carpenter Willie Sekula For much of Texas, the spring of 2007 was characterized by above-average precipitation and below-average tem- peratures. Of course, there were exceptions to this, but they were rather hard to find in the big picture. In the far west, El Paso received more than double its normal rainfall through May, with 92.4 mm vs. 43.4 mm. The Chisos Basin of Big Bend National Park reported 191.2 mm of precipitation during the season, up 142.7 mm from 2006. The Panhandle and South Plains received larger quantities of rain through the period, filling all of the playas to the point that some observers commented that there was too much water. This trend continued farther east, as much of north-cen- tral Texas received over 130 mm of rain above normal, resulting in levels in reservoirs rais- ing as much as 3.7 m. On the Upper Coast, Houston received 511.5 mm of rain or 204.7 mm above normal. All of this rain resulted in quality stopover habitat for passerine migrants at inland loca- tions and abundant nesting areas for oppor- tunistic grassland birds such as Grasshopper Sparrows and Dickcissels. This also resulted in abundant habitat for shorebirds, but this made observing that migration very difficult by spreading out the birds. Lupardus noted a secondary problem in Midland, where shore- bird habitat was limited due to shorelines be- ing obscured by heavy vegetation. Three of the highlights of the spring season actually involved nesting birds, a pair of Bald Eagles near Dalhart, the first nesting since 1916 in the Panhandle, a pair of Long-eared Owls in El Paso, the first documented since 1918 in the county, and the first documented nest in the United States of Mangrove Warbler in the Lower Laguna Madre. However, what garnered the most attention was the presence of some relatively cooperative Masked Ducks in Kleberg County. WATERFOWL THROUGH SHEARWATERS Black-bellied Whistling-Ducks continue to spread northward, with several sightings from Hunt, Kaufman, and Jack this season (m.ob.). A rare find was 8 Fulvous Whistling-Ducks at Richland Creek W.M.A., Freestone 19 May (DDC, DLi); also of interest was a high count of 350+ on Pelican I., Galveston 29 Apr (TE). Seemingly regular in far w. Texas, a Eurasian Wigeon was at Ft. Hancock Res., Hudspeth 5 May (]Ki) and another at nearby Tornillo Res., El Paso 7 May (tBZ). Less expected was a male at a neighborhood pond in Dallas 16- 25 Mar (BLa, TGCo). A Cinnamon Teal at Anahuac N.W.R., Chambers 4 May was no- tably late OBe). Inland Surf Scoters made a good showing this spring, with a pair in Mid- land, Midland 11-12 Apr (RMS), one at Hagerman N.W.R., Grayson 15 Apr (JSc, MSc), with 2 present there 26 Apr (LL), one recovered near Abilene 3 May (HT), and one at Hornsby Bend, Travis 13 May (RD, SB). The Grayson White-winged Scoter present since late Nov lingered until 4 Mar (GCo, TR). Hooded Mergansers successfully nested at two Brazoria locations in mid- Apr: one brood near Shady Acres Oha. ph. CBr) and another near Holiday Lakes (ph. MGr). This species also nested at the Heard National Science Mu- seum, Collin in early May (GG) and in Longview, Harrison in late May (DBr, MEd). There was a mini-invasion of Masked Ducks into Kleberg this season. The first sighting in- volved a female-plumaged bird near Kingsville 2-19 Apr (MaG, TS, tm.ob.). This sighting was followed by another (or the pos- sibly the same) female-plumaged bird near Riviera 22 Apr (tTPe). At a separate pond near Riviera, a pair of these ducks was present 11 May+ (ph. GP, tm.ob.). The only Red-throated Loons reported were singles at L. Texoma, Grayson 4 & 25 Mar (GCo, TR) and L. Tawakoni, Van Zandt 24 Mar and 14 Apr (GCo, BoS). Single Pacific Loons were on L. Tawakoni, Van Zandt 18 Mar-15 Apr (m.ob.) and L. Texoma, Grayson 25 Mar (GCo, BoS); more unexpected was one at Richland Chambers Res., Freestone 17 Apr (TPo). Two Least Grebes were reported at Brazos River County Park, Brazoria 30 Mar (DVe), while another pair was at Brazos Bend S.P., Fort Bend 14 Apr (BG). Lingering West- ern Grebes included 2 on L. Kickapoo, Archer 14 Mar (SL, DHo), 5 on L. Buchanan, Llano 3 May (TFe), and 2 at L. Rita Blanca, Hartley 26 May (LSa). Details of a Sooty Shearwater re- ported from South Padre I., Cameron 17 May (tLMe) will be reviewed by the state records committee. PELICANS THROUGH RAPTORS Almost an annual visitor to the El Paso area, 2 Brown Pelicans were at McNary Res., Hud- speth 5 May QP^), with one remaining through 12 May (MSt); another juv. was at the same location 20-28 May QPa)- Another Brown Pelican was in Real 9 May (AB). An amazingly high count of 12,500 Double-crest- ed Cormorants was tallied at L. Tawakoni, Hunt, Rains, and Van Zandt 8 Apr (RKi). For unknown reasons, colonial waterbirds failed to nest at McNary Res., Hudspeth for the first time in many years. By the end of the period, there was no breeding activity noted among What could be called a mini-invasion of Masked Ducks occurred in Kleberg County, Texas, when birds were found at three dif- ferent locations between 2 April and 30 May 2007. This pair was the most cooperative during its stay near Riviera from 1 1 May through the season (here 20 May). Photograph by Glenn Perrigo. VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 473 TEXAS Providing the third record for the Upper Texas Coast, this Band-tailed Pi- geon made a brief appearance at Houston, Harris County 12 April 2007. Photograph by Debra Logsdon. Neotropic and Double-crested Cormorants or among Snowy and Cattle Egrets. Continuing a trend of lingering and possibly breeding American Bitterns along the coast, at least one bird was still present at San Bernard N.W.R., Brazoria 27 May OSt). Unusual in the South Plains, an early Snowy Egret was at White River L., Crosby 24 Mar (Able), while another was in Gray 23 Apr (MDL). A Tricolored Eleron in Midkiff, Midhmd 14 Apr (BLu et al.) was unusual, as was one in Rio Grande Vil- lage, Brewster 1 May (MSt). A Reddish Egret flying over College Station, Brazos 10 May (ER) was a county first. A Glossy Ibis stopped briefly at Temple, Bell 25 Apr (RPi). A Black Vulture was near Floydada, Floyd 27 May (AHe, AvH), where the species is quite rare. An ad. Greater Flamingo was in the Lower Laguna Madre, Cameron 28 May (ph. LSh), providing only the 8th record for the state. An impressive group of as many as 9 Swallow-tailed Kites overnighted on S. Padre 1., Cameron 9-10 Apr (AS, ph. ScC). Farther away from their usual migration route were single Swallow-tailed Kites at Mitchell L., Bexar 24 Mar (fide SCo), in se. San Antonio 21 Apr (BW), and at Concan, Uvalde 22 Apr (C&CG). One seen near Gus Engling W.M.A., Anderson 25 May was late to be away from known breeding areas (HH, CS). A pair of nesting White-tailed Kites in n. Kent provided a first breeding record for the area, though the nest was lost late in the season due to in- clement weather QCa, AHe). Also noteworthy were 2 White-tailed Kites in Ellis 20 Apr (AE, RRo, FF). A pair of Bald Eagles fledged a single young out of a nest on a manmade platform near Dalhart, Dallam (CBo), providing the first successful local nesting since 1916. A pair of Northern Harriers lingered throughout May at Ft. Bliss, El Paso (BZ), while a lone bird was seen at Balmorhea, Reeves 31 May (JPa). A pair of Sharp-shinned Hawks attending a nest was discovered in the Davis Mts., Jeff Davis 19 May (ML, M&ME) — the 2nd nesting record for the range. The Sylvan Beach Hawkwatch, Galveston had nice counts of 254 Mississippi Kites and 10,372 Broad-winged Hawks 11 Apr (DBe et al.). Over 50,000 Broad-winged Hawks were tallied at Calaveras L., Bexar 13 Apr (MR, SCo). A Short-tailed Hawk at Bentsen S.P., Hidalgo 14 Apr (TBCl) was a nice find, though one in nw. San Antonio, Bexar on the same date was farther n. than expected (tSCo). Unusual was a Golden Eagle observed in Throckmorton 1 Apr (GCo, BoS). Continuing to expand their range. Crested Caracaras were reported at no fewer than eight loca- tions in n.-cen. Texas (m.ob.), including a nesting pair in e. Dallas 4-11 Mar (RRa). PLOVERS THROUGH GULLS Large concentrations of American Golden- Plovers included an early count of 325 near Magnolia Beach, Calhoun 11 Mar (BFr), while a conservative estimate of 8OO-1- individuals near Granger L., Williamson 25 Mar (TFe) was very impressive. Snowy Plovers made a good showing in cen. Texas, with three sight- ings 17-25 Apr (RPi) in Temple, Bell, plus sin- gles at Pflugerville Res., Travis 25 Apr (TFe) and at Austin, Travis 16 May (MKl). Five Snowy Plovers on L. Tawakoni, Rains 25 Apr (MW) was a good count. Single Piping Plovers at L. Tawakoni, Rains 25 Apr (MW) and at Temple, Bell 13 May (RPi) were no- table, while another one at L. Buchanan, Llano 3 May (TFe) was a first for the Edwards Plateau. A single Whimbrel stopped at South- side WTR, Dallas 27 Apr-5 May (BoS), while a group of 19 on Ft. Hood, Bell 30 Apr (RKo, GE) was a very high count for cen. Texas. A Hudsonian Godwit in Midland 28 May (RMS) was a very good find. Rare on the South Plains, 4 White-rumped Sandpipers were near Lubbock, Lubbock 22 Apr (AHe), while 3 were near Floydada, Floyd 26 May (AHe, AvH). An incredible 44 Dunlins were noted at L. Tawakoni, Rains 16 May (RKi). A Curlew Sandpiper was studied briefly at S. Padre L, Cameron 16 May (tKT). Twenty-five Buff- breasted Sandpipers in Archer 14 Apr were noteworthy (J&TK). A Ruff was between High I. and Gilchrist, Galveston 16 Apr (tJW). Single Red-necked Phalaropes were studied at Southside W.T.P., Dallas 18 May (BoS, GCo), in Temple, Bell 19 May (RPi), and at Pelican L, Galveston 26-30 May (CTL, m.ob.). A Franklin’s Gull in Dallam 14 Apr (LSa) represented a new county record, while one at Fort Clark Springs, Kinney 22 Apr (MHe) was at an odd location. A count of at least 60 Franklin’s Gulls on Bull L., Lamb 21 Apr (AHe, AvH) was a high number for the South Plains. The 2 Little Gulls present from the winter season continued at White Rock L., Dallas until 15 Mar (MW), with the last re- port of a single bird on 19 Mar (BBa). An imm. Little Gull was seen along Bolivar Peninsula, Galveston 24 Mar (tJSt). A Califor- nia Gull was observed at L. Tawakoni, Rains 15 Apr (RKi, RBa), while one was present at McNary Res., Hudspeth 5 May QPa)- Three second-cycle California Gulls were reported from Muleshoe N.W.R., Bailey 5 May (BBe). A first-cycle Thayer’s Gull was found at the White Rock L. spillway, Dallas 8 Mar (CRu). The wintering Iceland Gull in Houston, Har- ris lingered until 3 Apr (ph. MR). The ad. Lesser Black-backed Gull present since winter at L. Ray Hubbard, Dallas stayed until 17 Mar (GCo, TR). A Glaucous Gull at East Beach, Galveston 23 Apr QSt) was on the late side, as was one at Corpus Christi, Nueces 28 Apr (SCo, MR, WS). TERNS THROUGH WOODPECKERS Two Least Terns observed at L. Wichita Park, Wichita 15 (SL, DP) & 18 May (SL, DHo) were rare for the area. A young Common Tern put in a rare appearance at L. Tawakoni, Rains 5 May (TR, GCo et al.). A Band-tailed Pigeon in Houston, Harris 12 Apr (ph. DLo) repre- sented the 3rd record for the U.T.C. Single Black-billed Cuckoos were seen in ne. San Antonio, Bexar 25 Apr (HR) and in Temple, Bell 19 May (RPi). A very early arriving cuck- oo, of unknown species, was noted in Hous- ton, Harris 17 Mar (TAM), while an early Yel- low-billed Cuckoo was at Richland Creek W.M.A., Freestone 24 Mar (PB). The wintering Burrowing Owl at Ft. Travis, Galveston stayed until 31 Mar (m.ob.). A late spring Long- eared Owl was found at Muleshoe N.W.R., Bailey 15 Apr (AHe). Of greater interest was 474 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS TEXAS A one-day-wonder Violet-crowned Hummingbird brightened the central Davis Mountains, Jeff Davis County, Texas 23 April 2007. Amazingly, this was the fif- teenth species of hummingbird for this location — the top number anywhere in Texas. Photograph by Maryann Eastman. the discovery of roosting Long-eared Owls at the Rio Bosque Wetlands Park in El Paso, El Paso 29 Apr+ QSp), cul- minating in the detection of at least 2 juvs. in late May. This discovery pro- vided the first documented El Paso nesting record since 1918, although there was evidence of nesting in 1934 and 1936. A late Short-eared Owl was observed hunting at dusk at Village Creek Drying Beds, Tarrant 18 Apr (GCo). A pair of Chuck-will’s-widows at a nest with eggs along Mitchell Cr., Donley 26-28 May (ph. BP) provided the first confirmed breeding record for the Panhandle. A Chaetura swift be- lieved to be a Chimney was a good spring find near Boot Springs, Brewster 11 Apr (BCa). A Green Violet-ear took up residence in Bastrop 28 Apr+ (ph. tSE et al.), and another one was present near Burr, Wharton 11-13 May (TKD). A male Green-breasted Mango present at Sabine Woods, Jefferson 26 Apr (ph. EB) was a first for the U.T.C. Continu- ing the spate of recent local records, a male Broad-billed Hummingbird was at the Davis Mountains Resort, Jeff Davis 19 Mar-i- and was joined by a female 20 Apr-i- (M&ME). Also continuing a trend of recent years, a male White-eared Hummingbird was in the Davis Mountains Resort, JejfjT Davis 11 May-i- (fide ML). On a dif- ferent level altogether was the Violet-crowned Hummingbird in the Davis Mountains Resort 23 Apr (TM&ME), providing a first for Jeff Davis and the 8th for the state. A male Ruby- throated Hummingbird in Midland, Midland 8 May (D&JM) was noteworthy since this species is much more of a fall migrant in the area. An Anna’s Hummingbird nest was found in w. El Paso, El Paso 5 Mar (MaS, JZ) pro- ducing 2 young by 24 Mar 0^0 • This repre- sents the 3rd documented nesting for the state, with previous records from Jeff Davis (1976) and El Paso (2000). Late and unusual for the season was an imm. male Anna’s Hum- mingbird in the Davis Mountains Resort, Jeff Davis 2 May+ (ph. M&ME). Noteworthy was a Calliope Hummingbird photographed at South Llano River S.P., Kimble 14 Apr (fide RH). This species is much more likely in late summer and fall than the spring on the Ed- wards Plateau. A male Broad-tailed Hum- mingbird near Utopia, Uvalde 31 Mar-2 Apr (MHe) and a female near Cibolo, Guadalupe 16 Apr (SS) provided rare spring records for the Hill Country. An exciting find for North Texas was a Ringed Kingfisher at the L. Worth spillway, Tarrant 12 Mar-6 Apr QCo et al.). Single Red-headed Woodpeckers wandered to coastal locations, with one at Bolivar Plats, Galveston 19 Apr (WB) and another at Galve- ston’s Pelican 1. 29 Apr (TE). A Yellow-bellied Sapsucker in Donley 5 May (BP) was late for the Panhandle. A pair of Ladder-backed Woodpeckers feeding young 21 Apr in w. Waller, (ph. JKe) constitutes the first docu- mented nesting record for the county. A fam- ily group of Northern Plickers observed at the city park in Sierra Blanca on 5 May QP^) made for a rare Hudspeth breeding record. FLYCATCHERS THROUGH SWALLOWS A Greater Pewee at Ft. Bliss 8 May (BZ) was only the 2nd for El Paso and represented a very unusual lowland migrant record for the species. A Western Wood-Pewee was heard calling on w. Galveston L, Galveston 3 May QSt et al.). A Gray Flycatcher at Buffalo Lake N.W.R., Randall 22 Apr (BP) was only the 4th record for the Panhandle. Buff-breasted Fly- catchers again returned to the cen. Davis Mts., Jeff Davis, with one pair and a territori- al male found in mid-Apr+ (tML et ah). A late Eastern Phoebe was seen on w. Galveston L, Galveston 12 Apr OSO- A very late Say’s Phoebe was seen at Balcones Canyonlands N.W.R., Burnet 25 Apr (BSt). A pair of Dusky- capped Flycatchers was located at Boot Spring, Big Bend N.P., Brewster 24 Apr+ (MKo, ML et al.). Dusky-capped Flycatchers were also present in the Davis Mountains Preserve, Jeff Davis 19 May+ (tML, M&ME), with up to 6 birds on at least four territories. A call- ing Couch’s Kingbird in Balmorhea, Reeves 26 May (RH) was a county first. A Couch’s Kingbird, and possibly a pair, was present at Big Bend’s Cotton- wood Campground, Brewster (ME, m.ob.). A Cassin’s Kingbird ventured eastward to Lost Maples S.N.A., Ban- dera 5 May (MHe). Three Eastern Kingbirds present at Packery Channel, Nueces 17 Mar (MCo, AC) represented an early date for the Corpus Christ! area. Farther w., an Eastern Kingbird in Gray 30 Mar (MDL) was very early, while another at Rio Grande Village, Brewster 29 Apr (ME) was a very rare migrant in the Region. Single Bell’s Vireos were in n.-cen. Texas, including L. Tawakoni S.P, Hunt 4 May (RKi), Fox Creek Greenbelt, Denton 10 May (LD), and Plano, Collin 22 May (PAs). Three presumably nest- ing Black-capped Vireos were seen in Somervell 13 May (DDC, DLi). A pair of Black-capped Vireos was discovered at a nest site at Cedar Hollow, L. Georgetown, Williamson 16-19 May (TFe). Unfortunately, the nesting attempt failed, but this is the same location where a singing male was present the previous year. Most signifi- cantly, a singing Black-capped Vireo was found s. of Putnam, Callahan 27 May (DDC, DLi) for what is apparently the 2nd county record. A Yellow-throated Vireo at Prairie Creek Park, Dallas 3 May (RRa, DHi) and one at Plano Outdoor Learning Center, Collin 24 May (PAs) were rare finds for the Region. A territorial Hutton’s Vireo was present in w. Travis 12 Apr-26 May (BR, JCh); this location is e. of the population that appears to be es- tablished in the sw. Hill Country. It was a ban- ner season for Yellow-green Vireos, with at least 7 tallied from Sabine Pass, Jefferson to the Sabal Palm Sanctuary, Cameron. What must have been a stunning spectacle, an estimated 12,500 apparently migrating Blue Jays streamed along the shoreline at Lake Tawakoni S.P., Hunt 25 Apr (RKi). Three Brown Jays continue to be seen in the vicini- ty of Chapeno and Salineno, Stan and are the only known individuals presently in the Unit- ed States (m.ob.). A pair of Tamaulipas Crows again returned to Brownsville, Cameron 8 Apr+ (BBu, m.ob.), where they successfully fledged one young. Three Cliff Swallows found in Gray 24 Mar (LSa) were very early VOlUME 61 (2007) NUMBER 3 475 TEXAS Hermit Warblers are always a treat in Texas away from the Trans-Pecos. This female at Port Aransas, Nueces County 21 April 2007 provided a rare Costal Bend Record but was the second for the county. Photograph by Ron Hillstromb. for the Panhandle. A Cave Swallow in Kent 15 Mar (AHe) was the earliest recorded for the South Plains, while one in ne. Texas 31 Mar (PB) provided a Smith hrst. A Barn Swallow at L. Tanglewood, Randall 25 Mar (TJ) was ear- ly for the Panhandle. NUTHATCHES THROUGH WARBLERS A pair of White-breasted Nuthatches feeding young at L. Waco, McLennan 17 Apr (FB, JMu) provided a hrst county nesting record. A Brown-headed Nuthatch well out of habitat near Anderson, Grimes 11 Mar (]0) was a surprise. A Brown Creeper in Bellaire, Harris 14 Apr (DVe) furnished the 2nd latest spring record for the U.T.C. A Ruby-crowned Kinglet lingered near Cibolo, Guadalupe until 20 May (ph. SS et al.). A Veery in Lake Jackson, Bra- zoria 26 Mar (CRi) tied the early record for the U.T.C. Farther inland, single individuals were noted at Plano, Collin 28 Apr (PAs), Lake Tawakoni S.P, Hunt 4 May (RKi), and Luhhock, Lubbock 19 May (AHe). Apparently territorial Wood Thrushes were found in nw. Travis 20 May (BSt) and Temple, Bell 21 May-r (RPi), both areas away from known nesting sites. A Clay-colored Robin was in Corpus Christi, Nueces 17 May-r (PY, MCo, WS, m.ob.). One of the birds of the season was a Rufous-backed Robin at Santa Ana, Hidalgo 8-13 Mar (RC, MR tm.ob.) that represented the 4th Lower Rio Grande Valley record for the species. Westward-wandering Brown Thrashers included singles in the Davis Mts., Jeff Davis 25 Apr (M&ME) and n. Hudspeth 2 May QO). A Long-billed Thrasber 16 km ne. of Alpine, Brewster 29 May (BSt) was well outside of the expected range. Crissal Thrash- ers continue to be found at additional loca- tions around Midland, Midland, conhrming that the species is resident in that area (RMS). Cedar Waxwings invaded the coast and South Texas in huge numbers, with counts of around 100 birds reported in many areas dur- ing May with a few lingering into early Jun (m.ob.). Golden-winged Warblers of interest in- cluded singles at Harrison 2 May (DBr, MEd), Lake Tawakoni S.P, Hunt 4 (MW) & 19 May (GCo, BoS), and Big Bends Rio Grande Vil- lage, Brewster 13 May QF)- A Virginias War- bler was at Lubbock, Lubbock 19 May (AHe). Northern Parulas found farther w. than ex- pected included singles at Lubbock, Lubbock 19 May (AHe) and near Eort Davis, Jeff Davis 26 May (RH). Single male Tropical Parulas were in w. Corrral 19 Apr-7 May (BEr) and Fort Clark Springs, Kirrney 25 Apr (ML). Al- though the population of Mangrove Warblers was discovered in the Lower Laguna Madre, Cameron in 2005, the first documented nesting record for Texas and the United States was obtained 14 May (ph. ScC). Chestnut-sided Warblers of note included singles at Lake Tawakoni S.P, Hunt 4 May (RKi), El Paso, El Paso 9 May (SH), and Junction, Kimble 15 May (RH). Lingering Yellow- rumped Warblers included Myrtles at Brazos Bend S.P, Fort Bend 6 May (MKi) and South Padre L, Cameron the same day (PL) and an Audubon’s also at South Padre 1. 4-5 May (PL et al.). Quite surprising were 2 Black-throated Green War- blers in the Chisos Moun- tains, Big Bend N.R, Brewster 3 May (MCo). A Townsend’s Warbler was far e. at Sabine Woods, Jefferson 26 Apr (EB et al.). The Hermit Warbler at Anzalduas County Park, Hidalgo present during the winter lingered until 9 Apr (PAb, TB). More unexpected was a female Hermit Warbler at Port Aransas, Nueces 21 Apr (AC, MCo, SCo, MR et al.). A Blackburnian Warbler at L. Wichita Park, Wichita 10 May (SL, DHo) pro- vided only the 2nd county record. A Yellow- throated Warbler wandered to Rio Grande Village, Brewster 26 Apr OD). Grace’s War- blers are rarely encountered in lowland habi- tats; this season, one was in El Paso, El Paso 8 Apr 0Pa)> and more unexpectedly, one was at a desert tank in n. Hudspeth 2 May QO). A likely lingering winterer, a Pine Warbler was in Lubbock, Lubbock 15 Mar (JH). Outside of the extensive Pineywoods of East Texas, Pine Warblers are only known to nest in natural pine forests in two other areas of e.-cen. Texas. So it was with great surprise to learn of nesting Pine War- blers in Robertson 21 Apr-i- (RSm). The birds were present in a stand of pines and bald-cypress that were planted be- tween 36 and 46 years ago. The pines are now 18-30 m tall and border another stand of cultivated pines. A Palm Warbler in Lubbock, Lubbock 28 Apr (AHe) was the first spring sighting in five years. A Blackpoll Warbler at Quintana, Bra- zoria 28 May (DVe, RW) was late. Cerulean Warblers made an almost unbelievable pas- sage though cen. Texas, with nine reports from Bastrop, Bell, Bexar, Guadalupe, Travis, 476 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS and Washington spanning 25 Apr-1 May (m.ob.). Prothonotary Warblers in the w. in- cluded singles at Lubbock, Lubbock 5 May (AHe, Lma), Buffalo L., Randall 5 May (LSa), and Rio Grande Village, Brewster 13 May (S&MP). A great find was a Worm-eating Warbler at Big Bend’s Boot Springs, Brewster 24 Apr (RBo). A late migrant Worm-eating Warbler was at the Old State Fish Hatchery, Dallas 28 May (CRu). Single Ovenbirds made an appearance at Buffalo Springs L., Lubbock 19 May (AHe, AvH) and near Canyon, Ran- dall 6-12 May (RM, MoS), providing unusual spring records for nw. Texas. A Connecticut Warbler was reported in Austin, Travis 13 May (tTE), and details will be reviewed by the state bird records committee. Details were provided of a very early male Mourning War- bler observed at the Montgomery County Pre- serve 21 Mar (GCl). Hooded Warblers w. of the normal migration corridor included sin- gles at L. Tawakoni, Vein Zandt 1 Apr (RKi, RBa), at Midland, Midland 7 May (D&JM), and at Temple, Bell 9 May (RPi). A Slate- throated Redstart was in Boot Canyon, Brew- ster 25 Apr (tJBa), providing the 9th record for the state. TANAGERS THROUGH FINCHES There was a bumper crop of Western Tan- agers on the U.T.C., with 6 birds reported 3 Apr-7 May (m.ob.). A very late lingering Spotted Towhee was at El Paso, El Paso 24 May (BZ). Clay-colored Sparrows wandered to w. Galveston I., Galveston 19 Apr and 3 May (JSt). A Brewer’s Sparrow in Richardson, Dallas 8 May (ph. DHi) provided a first fully documented local regional record. Eastward- wandering Lark Buntings were found at the Village Creek Drying Beds, Tarrant 27 Mar (GCo, GM, BBu, CA) and w. Galveston L, Galveston 6-7 Apr (ph. JSt). A Savannah Spar- row at San Bernard, Brazoria 23 May OSt) was late. A very high count of 77 Grasshopper Sparrows was made near Eloydada, Floyd 26 May (AHe, AvH). Three Le Conte’s Sparrows lingered at Granger L., Williamson until 5 May (TEe). Always a nice find inland, a Nel- son’s Sharp-tailed Sparrow was reported at L. Tawakoni, Rains 20 May (MW). A Song Spar- row in Cove, Chambers 27 Apr (PF) was the latest-ever spring record for the U.T.C. A Lin- coln’s Sparrow at Quintana, Brazoria lingered until 4 May (RW et al.). A White-throated Sparrow lingered at Muleshoe N.W.R., Bailey until 5 May (BBe), while a lingering Harris’s Sparrow was near Granger L., Williamson 12 May OLe, KH). An ad. Golden-crowned Spar- row was at Sierra Blanca, Hudspeth 5 May (tJPa), providing a 3rd county record. A Black-headed Grosbeak was at Lake Wi- TEXAS chita Park, Wichita 2 May, and 2 were pres- ent 5 May (SL). An early arrival for East Texas, a Blue Grosbeak was in Central Heights, Nacogdoches 30 Mar (MHW). Dick- cissels were in abundance on the South Plains, as illustrated by a count of 74 near Eloydada, Floyd 26 May (AHe, AvH). Bobo- links made rare appearances in n.-cen. Texas, with one at Hagerman N.W.R., Grayson 25 Apr and 15 there 8 May (LL et al). A Com- mon Crackle made a brief appearance in Alpine, Brewster 8 Apr (ML). A male Great- tailed Crackle in Angelina 20 Apr (RT) was a nice find in an area where the species does not breed. Bronzed Cowbirds made a very good showing on the South Plains, suggest- ing that they are becoming established, with at least 26 individuals observed between 21 Apr and 28 May (m.ob.). Two Orchard Ori- oles at Alazan Bayou W.M.A., Nacogdoches 1 Apr (RT) tied the earliest spring record for the Pineywoods. A male Hooded Oriole was in Seabrook, Galveston 25 May (ph. VM); this species is being reported with increasing frequency on the U.T.C. Bullock’s Orioles were reported in unusually large numbers in the e. part of the state (but w. of the Piney- woods), including a first-year male in Waller 16 May (MHo) that furnished a county first record. Red Crossbills nested in the Davis Mts., Jeff Davis during Apr (ML), and flocks of 20+, including juvs., were seen on several occasions. Lingering Pine Siskins included singles in Collin 1 May (KC) and Morris 27 May (DBr, LB). Cited observers (subregional editors in bold- face): Peg Abbott (PAb), Charley Amos, Peter Assmann (PAs), Besty Baker (BBa), Ron Baltzegar (RBa), Joe Barnes QBa), Peter Barnes, Dick Benoit (DBe), John Berner 0Be)> Brandon Best (BBe), Alan Blankenship, Clint Boal (CBo), Robert Bond (RBo), Erik Breden, Sally Breed, David Brotherton (DBr), Luaane Brotherton, Charlie Brower (CBr), Tim Brush, Buck Buchanan (BBu), Erank Bum- gardner, Winnie Burkett, Karen Carbiener, Barbara Carlson (BCa), Joe Carter 0Ca),John Chenoweth OCh), Bill Clark (BCl), Gary Clark (GCl), Sheridan Coffey (SCo), Scarlet Colley (SeC), Greg Cook (GCo), Arlie Cook- sey, Mel Cooksey (MCo) (South Texas: 16 Townhouse Lane, Corpus Christi, TX 78412. email: ssi@stx.rr.com), Robert Coon, Joe Cox QCo), D. D. Currie (DDC) (North-central Texas: 2703 Colleen Dr., Arlington, TX 76016. email: ddbirder@sbcglobal.net), Manuel De Leon (MDL), Kevin Dees, Robin Doughty, Lawrence Duhon (LD), Jon Dunn, Marc & Maryann Eastman, Gil Eckrich, Mark Edmund, Alexander Ellis, Ted Eubanks, Paul Eagala, Tim Pennell (TEe), Josh Perry, Sharon Finlay, Fitz Fitzpatrick, Mark Flippo, Brush Freeman (BFr), Bert Frenz (BeF) (East Texas: 221 Rainbow Dr., #12190, Livingston, TX 77399-2021. email: bert2@bafrenz.com), Charmaine & Collins Ganson, Bill Godley, Michael Gray (MGr), Mans Grundsten (MaG), Georgette Guernsey, Hayden Haucke, Jill Haukos, Mitch Heindel (MHe), Rhandy Helton, Anthony Hewetson (AHe) (North- west Texas: 4407 36th St., Lubbock TX 79414. email: terrverts@yahoo.com), Aveline Hewetson (AvH), Derek Hill (DHi), Dave Holbert (DHo), Kelly Holligan, Sally Homan, Maggie Honig (MHo), Thomas Johnson, Jan & Tim Kaspar, Joseph Kennedy QKe), Richard Kinney (RKi), Marilyn Kircus (MKi), John Kiseda O^i). Mollie Kloepper (MKl), Mark Korducki (MKo), Rich Kostecke (RKo), John Lamar Oka), Bob Lanier (BLa), Cin-Ty Lee (CTL), Paul Lehman, Jason Leifester QLe), Lee Lemmons, Dell Little (DLi), Mark Lockwood, Scotty Lofland, Debra Logsdon (DLo), Bill Lupardus (BLu), Victor Madam- ba, Lori Madry (LMa), Ray Matlack, Don & Joann Merritt, Larry Metz (LMe), Toni- Ann Mistretta (TAM), Gail Morris, John Muldrow (JMu),John O’Neill, Steve & Megan Parrish, Jim Paton QPa) (Trans-Pecos: 4325 Boy Scout Lane, El Paso, TX 79922. email: paton- jn@netzero.net), Dan Patrick, Todd Pepper (TPe), Glenn Perrigo, Barrett Pierce, Randy Pinkston (RPi), Truman Powell (TPo), Mike Powers, Ross Rasmussen (RRa), Ellen Ra- toosh, Martin Reid, Bill Reiner, Helen Rejzek, Thomas Riecke, Cecilia Riley (CRi), Rusty Rose (RRo), Chris Runk (CRu), Laura Sare (LSa), Susan Schaezler, Monty Schoenhals (MoS), Jeff Scott Qfic), Marcy Scott (MaS), Mary Scott (MSc), Willie Sekula (Central Texas: 7063 Co. Rd. 228, Palls City, TX 78113-2627. email: wsekula@peoplepc.com). Cliff Shackelford, Larry Shriver (LSh), Rachael Smith (RSm), John Sproul 0Sp)> Tomas Stafstrom, Arlene Steltzer, Jim Steven- son OSl), Mark Stevenson (MSt), Bob Stone (BoS), Byron Stone (BSt), Rose Marie Stortz (RMS), Kent Taylor, Heidi Trudell, Robert Truss, Don Verser, Ron Weeks (Upper Texas Coast: 110 Indian Warrior, Lake Jackson, TX 77566. email: ronweeks@sbcglobal.net). Matt White, John Whittle, Brad Wier, Mimi Hoppe Wolf, Phyllis Yochem, Jimmy Zabriskie, Barry Zimmer. © Mark W, Lockwood, 402 East Harriet Avenue Alpine, Texas 79830, (mark.lockwood@tpwd.state.tx.us) Eric Carpenter, 10610 Morado Circle #2325 Austin, Texas 78759, (ecarpe@gmail.com) Willie Sekula, 7063 County Road 228 Falls City, Texas 781 1 3, (w5ekula@peoplepc.com) VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 477 I Colorado & Wyoming Tony Leukering Lawrence S. Semo Bill Schmoker The Region experienced a warm spring. Compared to 112 years of climate records, the statewide temperature av- erage in Wyoming ranked above normal (the twelfth warmest) and in Colorado, much above normal (the seventh warmest). As corollary, both states’ precipitation levels for the period were much below normal. Wyoming saw its eleventh driest spring, while Colorado recorded its sixth driest (both out of 112 years). Still banking on exceptional snowfall from the winter, Colorado’s Eastern Plains remained free of drought classification, but southwestern Wyoming graded into ex- treme drought. A pleasant variety of particularly notable birds were spread throughout the checklist and throughout the Region this season. Four potential first state records punctuated the spring months. While three were single-ob- server reports, Colorado’s first Lawrence’s Goldfinch remained faithful to a feeder through the end of the period and most of the summer, providing looks and photographs to scores of observers. The hybrid assortment included goose, ibis, plover, and phoebe com- binations. While northern gulls generally make it into the spring report as holdovers from winter, some persisted well into spring this year, including two pale-winged species lingering through April in northern Colorado. Other first-rate wanderers included King Rail and Painted Redstart in Colorado and West- ern Bluebird in Wyoming. Abbreviations: Blue Mesa (Blue Mesa Res., Gunnison)' Chico (Chico Basin Ranch, Pueblo/El Paso)', Crow Valley (Crow Valley Campground, Pawnee National Grasslands, Weld); L.C.C. (Lamar Community College, Prowers); Lower Latham (Lower Latham Res., Weld); Pastorius (Pastorius Res., La Plata); Tamarack (Tamarack Ranch S.W.A., Logan). “West Slope” denotes locations w. of the Rockies. Due to reporting biases, all locations can be assumed to be in Colorado except that each Wyoming location is noted as such the first time it appears in the text. Because most rarities are seen by many observers, only the observer(s) initially finding and identifying the bird are noted. WATERFOWL THROUGH HERONS A Fulvous Whistling-Duck was reported from Teton, WY 21 May (tD. Brown; p.a.); there is only one previous Regional record. The most interesting of three May sightings of Ross’s Goose was the individual at Sullen- burger Res., Archuleta 2 May (P. Derven) in sw. Colorado, where the species is not regular. A Greater White-fronted Goose x Canada Goose hybrid was spotted in Jefferson 25 Mar (B. Shade). Four reports each were received of the two native swan species, joining three of Mute Swan. That last species is not accepted as occurring “naturally” in Colorado, but is it possible that some recent reports pertain to individuals displaced from sources of natural- ized occurrence? Male Eurasian Wigeons were reported thrice, oddly enough all from locations on the West Slope. The first report came from Pastorius 6-27 Apr (RMo et al.) and the next from Blue Mesa 30 Apr (TH). The 3rd report was from Zink’s Pond 20 May Q. & j. Rees), which is only a few km from Pastorius and, presumably, was of the same individual. The only spring “sea ducks” re- ported were in Larimer: a single Surf Scoter 1- 9 Apr at N. Poudre Res. #3 (RH) and a spank- ing alternate-plumaged male Long-tailed Duck at Fossil Creek Res. 28 Apr (LS, RFI). Rare at their respective locales, an ad. male Barrow’s Goldeneye graced Pastorius 1 Apr (JBy), and an imm. male Red-breasted Mer- ganser was at Craig, Moffat 23 Apr (FL). Though presumably resident in sw. Col- orado, Scaled Quail are only rarely reported from there, so the 2 near Cortez, Montezuma 1 1 May (CD et al.) are of interest. Red-throat- ed Loons were present in higher-than-normal numbers, with 2 at Pueblo Res., Pueblo: a ba- sic-plumaged bird 10 Apr-8 May (RMi) and an alternate-plumaged bird 17 Apr-7 May (BKP). A transitional-plumaged Red-throated Loon visited Marston Res., Denver 19 Apr (TJ), and what may have been the same basic- plumaged individual was found (or refound) at Pueblo Res. 23 May (BKP). Wyoming also got into the Red-throated Loon act, with a ba- sic-plumaged bird at Wheatland Res., Platte 23 Apr (ph. LS) accounting for the state’s 5th record (3rd in spring). Loon reports are rounded out by two of Pacific and 13 of Com- mon, with both of the former being found at interesting locations: at Yant’s Puddle, Na- trona, WY (BR) and a basic-plumaged bird at DeWeese Res., Custer 16 May (BKP, MP). An alternate-plumaged Red-necked Grebe was a nice find at Pueblo Res. 25-28 Apr (BKP). An American Bittern was apparently early 23 Mar at the Las Animas Hatchery, Bent (CW, NE, IS); individuals at Lower Latham 27 Apr (R. Trinkner, R. Bolton) and Ft. Lyon, Bent 28 Apr (MP, BKP) were found on what is thought to be more typical arrival dates. A Least Bittern called 21 May at Ft. Lyon (DN), a location at which the species has been suspected of breed- ing. All of the 15 reports of Green Heron orig- inated from or near typical locations, with all but two reports being of single birds. The most interesting of the lot was of 3 at Thurston Res., Prowers 19 May (SM). We received “only” eight reports of Glossy Ibis this spring, all from typical e. Colorado locations. Two Glossy Ibis X White-faced Ibis hybrids were found near Steam’s L., Boulder 25-26 Apr (L. Kilpatrick, TL, ph. T. Heinrich), continuing a mn of at least four consecutive springs in which this hy- brid combination has been found in Colorado. RAPTORS THROUGH SHOREBIRDS Single Mississippi Kites were a shade early 22 Two Iceland Gulls created quite a stir in Colorado when they were first found on 1 (here 16) April 2007 and lingered for most of the month. While usually seen singly after their discovery, these photographs from the Larimer County landfill near Fort Collins offer a good comparison of the duo. Photographs by Cole Wild. 478 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS COLORADO & WYOMING One of two Iceland Gulls found in the spring season in Colorado, this bird was found 1 April 2007 (here) in Weld County; and at least one bird lingered through 29 April in adjacent Larimer County. Photograph by Larry Semo. Apr at Lamar and Granada, both Prowers OK) and one at Gillette, Campbell 23 May (T. Jensen) was in Wyoming, where quite rare. Bald Eagle nesting distribution in Colorado continues to expand, with two “new” nests being found this spring, both in the se., in Fremont and Crowley (SM), firsts for both counties. Two Northern Goshawks (both suh- ads.) were on the plains, where decidedly un- common, one at Chico, Pueblo 19 Apr (BM), the other at Lamar 27 Apr (M. Ackley). A Common Black-Hawk ghosted around Grand Junction, Mesa 2-25 May with, oddly, only those with the initials of ‘RL being able to find it (R. Lambeth, R. Levad, R. Linfield). The number of Broad-winged Hawks reported this spring was much lower than usual due to the Dinosaur Ridge hawkwatch not being operat- ed, but the 13 reports did include 2 dark morphs, a reported “imm.” at Cherry Creek Res., Arapahoe 22 Apr (quite early for non- ads.), and a nicely photographed ad. at Fort Lupton, Weld 28 Apr (TL). Many historic Swainson’s Hawk territories in ne. Colorado A bird first reported as an American Golden- Plover was found near Lower Latham 6 May {L. Griffin) and stayed through 8 May. Over the course of the next two days, the identification was changed to that of, possibly, Pacific Golden-Plover, which, of course, caused a bit of a twitch. Though many features of the bird ap- peared like that of Pacific, some features seemed more like that of American, and some observers were per- plexed. A call for help in identifying the bird from pictures obtained resulted in worldwide experts disagreeing on the identification. Fortunately, a feather the bird removed during preening was obtained, and mitochondrial DNA analysis showed the maternal parent to be an American Golden-Plover. We await samples of Pacific Golden-Plover with which to compare the nuclear DMA and final details, when they are known, will appear elsewhere. For now, many are considering the bird to be of hybrid derivation. were filled two to three weeks later than usual this spring (TL), despite typical arrival dates in at least a few places (e.g.. Brush, Morgan 29 Mar [NE]). Single Rough-legged Hawks were quite late 19 Apr at Anton, Washington (D. Ely) and s. of Lamar (DAL). At what has been thought to be an early date, 20 Black Rails were heard in the extensive Ft. Lyon marshes 27-28 Apr (MR et al); obviously, some re-thinking may be in order on this subject. At least 2 Black Rails responding to playback at Chico 15-27 May (BKR BM) accounted for the first local and 2nd Pueblo records; the 3rd such was provided 20 May by a singing bird at Nepesta (the location of the first; AS). A calling King Rail 28 Apr at Ft. Lyon (MP et al.; p.a.) superceded even the aforementioned Black Rails as the night’s high- light. Rare in spring and extremely rare in sw. Colorado, an American Gold- en-Plover (in basic plumage) was a superb find at Pastorius 21-25 Apr (RMo, JBr); anoth- er graced John Martin Res., Bent 29 Apr (DN). Single Snowy Plovers were well out of range s. of L. John, Jackson 15 Apr (NK, S. Riffe), at Blue Mesa 30 Apr (TH), and at Goldeneye Res., Natrona, WY 12 May (BR). An Upland Sandpiper was well w. of normal, particular- ly for spring, at Chico, Pueblo 6 May (MP). The 16 reports of Whimbrel (slightly more than usual; 13 Apr-17 May) included that of 2 at Yant’s Puddle 2 May (CM). Ruddy Turnstones made news in early May, with 3-4 at Big Johnson Res., El Paso 7-8 May QD); 2 at Lake Henry, Crowley 12-13 May (T. Este- bo, A. Burns); and a single at Lake Cheraw, Otero 13 May (MP et al). A fallout of a whop- ping 9 basic-plumaged Red Knots at Blue Mesa Res. 29-30 Apr (TH) was nearly un- precedented, particularly for the West Slope. The only Dunlins reported were a single at L. Cheraw 22 Apr (CW, JK) and an outstanding 5 alternate-plumaged birds at San Luis Lakes, Alamosa 25 Apr QBy). Of the seven reports of Short-billed Dowitcher 14 Apr-12 May, a sin- gle bird called at Pastorius (on the West Slope, where very rare) 5 May OBy). The 175 Red-necked Phalaropes at Jumbo Res., Lo- gan/Sedgwick 15 May (H. Annknecht) was a nice, but not at all unprecedented, count. GULLS THROUGH VIREOS A Mew Gull was reported from Black Hollow Res., Weid 22 Mar (CW), but was trumped by not one, but 2, Iceland Gulls there on 1 Apr. The first of the 2 was found at the nearby Ault landfill (P. Lehman, ph. TL, ph. LS) and watched leaving the landfill heading in the di- rection of the res. Upon the masses (gulls and birders) arriving at the res., a 2nd individual QM) was noted among the throng of other gulls, with the 2 birds being readily separable on plumage details and in view at the same time. Neither was found in that area again, but the first individual relocated to the Love- land/Ft. Collins area, Larimer, being seen at two sites there 8-29 Apr (NK), where a first- cycle Glaucous Gull was fairly late 15-29 Apr QM, NK). Nearly as rare as Iceland Gull, at least in spring, was a Black-legged Kittiwake (first-cycle) at Pueblo Res. 3-8 May (ph. BKP). Two Least Terns were found at odd loca- tions this spring, one each at Big Johnson Res. 15 May (MP, CW) and Cheney Res., Mesa 18 May (LA). The most interesting of four Caspi- an Tern reports was of a single at Buena Vista 6 May (SM), providing a Chaffee first. The 21 reports of Whiterwinged Dove of which we are aware spanned the period and, undoubtedly, do not represent all individuals found, as the species is becoming a bit ho-hum, at least in Colorado. As we have been reporting for some years now, Inca Doves have still not spread be- lllustrating one hazard for southern birds expanding their ranges northward, this White-winged Dove appears to have lost some toe tips to frostbite but otherwise appeared no worse for wear on 3 May 2007 in Fort Collins, Larimer County, Col- orado. Photograph by Rachel Hopper. VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 479 COLORADO & WYOMING Big white birds oit the prairie turn heads, as did this adult Snowy Owl southwest of Gillette, Campbell County, Wyoming on 21 April 2007. Photograph by R. T Cox. yond their two isolated spots on the lower Arkansas R., nor have their numbers appreci- ated in any, well, appreciable way. A Snowy Owl was a one-day-wonder at Adobe Creek Res., Bent/Kiowa 1 Apr (S. Oswald), and an- other was nicely photographed at Gillette 21 Apr (R. T. Cox). A Northern Saw-whet Owl on the plains at Chico, El Paso 12 May (L. John- son et al.) was inexplicable, considering that most montane breeders have large young in the nest at that date. The species is not known to breed on the plains, and it seems unlikely that the species could breed at this well-bird- ed site without being seen (or heard) more than once during the season. A calling Chaetiira over Paonia, Delta 1 May 0- Season) was identified as a Vaux’s Swift. While there are no accepted Colorado records, the species is highly anticipated. Though numerous reports of Chaetiira have come from the West Slope, all have either been definitively identified as Chimney Swifts or have been left unidentified. Though we doubt that this record will be accepted, the observer is quite experienced and capa- ble. Like the aforementioned Inca Doves, the colony of Acorn Woodpeckers near Durango, La Plata continues without, apparently, in- creasing in size or spawning additional colonies. Three Eastern Wood-Pewees, all singles, were reported from Colorado, all in Lamar: L.C.C. 28 Apr (MP, L. Edwards, BSt, BKP), Eairmount Cemetery 15-16 May (ph. DAL), and L.C.C. 24 May (b., ph. MG). Nice finds were the single Alder Elycatch- ers reported at Chico, Pueblo 16 May (BM) and at Crow Valley 22 May (CW). Least Flycatchers have been emigrating westward in Colorado. Pairs were present at Craig 23 May-i- (Forrest Luke, m.ob.), which provid- ed a first for Moffat, and Connected Lakes S.P., Mesa 25 May-i- (m.ob.; where a nest was subsequently found). Two Vermilion Flycatchers graced Colorado during the period, both on 28 Mar, a female at Chico, El Paso OD) and a male s. of La junta, Otero (B. Leininger). Far e. was the Ash- throated Flycatcher at Neenoshe Res., Kiowa 23 Apr (DAL, DN), and quite interesting was the report of a pair of “probable” Great Crested Flycatchers at Glendo Res., Platte, WY 18 May (A&W Hines); there is only one ac- cepted record of the latter species in Wyoming. The presence of an Eastern Kingbird at Tennessee Pass, Lake 11 May was very unusual at such a high elevation (V. Truan). Three e. plains Scissor-tailed Flycatchers were reported in Colorado, one near Walsh, Baca 20 Apr (DAL), one s. of Lamar 29 Apr (AS, CW; a lo- cation where the species has nested for a few years), and one in Cheyenne on 2 May (DN). Gray Vireos are poorly known breeders of pinyon-juniper woodlands in se. Colorado, so the individual reported from Bader Ranch, Las Animas 20 May (AS) was of interest. Three Yellow-throated Vireos overshot onto the e. plains, with one at Chico, El Paso 27-28 Apr (BKP, BM et al.) providing a first record for that heavily birded ranch. Rare in spring, Cassin’s Vireos were well reported this year, with no fewer than 6 being seen across e. Col- orado (m.ob.). Rare for Colorado at any sea- son, a Blue-headed Vireo was banded and photographed at Chico, El Paso 19 May (BG, LS). Two Philadelphia Vireos, a typical num- ber for spring, were observed in e. Colorado, one at Chico, El Paso 16 May (BM), the other in Haxton, Phillips 25 May (jBy). JAYS THROUGH FINCHES Blue Jays are rare visitants to the West Slope of Colorado, though wandering individuals tend to stay put for long periods of time; one was noted at Craig 24 Mar (MP, BSt). A Chi- huahuan Raven was reported from Lower Latham 17 Apr (tCW), a site far n. of the species’ normal range in Colorado. Farther e. than normal, a Violet-green Swallow whipped over L. Meredith, Crowley 17 Apr (BM). Bushtits were present along the Front Range foothills n. to Larimer (DAL); one present on the e. plains at Chico, Pueblo 15-19 Apr (BM) was more unusual and provided a 2nd Ranch record. Two singing male Carolina Wrens in Canon City, Fremont 9 Mar+ (RMi) could oc- casionally both be heard from the same spot, while at least one lingered at L.C.C. until 24 Apr (m.ob.). More unusual was one in the mts. at Salida, Chaffee 17 May (RMi, SY). Well Jni Black Phoebes continue to push northward as I breeders in Colorado (Faulkner, D., C. Dexter, R. Levad, and T. Leukering. 2005. Black Phoebe breed- ing range expansion into Colorado. Western Birds 36: 1 1 4-1 20). Though the recent n. limit in e. Colorado has been Pueblo, Fremont, and Chaffee, an intriguing pair of phoebes attempted to nest much farther n. at Love- land, Larimer. A phoebe singing an odd song was first found 21 Apr (E. Coley) and immediately thought to be an Eastern Phoebe x Black Phoebe hybrid (NK). A host of expert observers were able to study the bird and note many intermediate characters, and the bird's vocalizations were recorded and the resultant sono- grams were compared to typical examples of the pu- tative parental species and found to be intermediate. Later, the bird was found to be paired with an appar- ently pure Black Phoebe, and the birds seemed to be attending a partial nest built in an old Barn Swallow nest. Plans to capture the odd bird for feather sam- pling and genetic analysis were precluded by the ap- parent departure of the birds in early Jun (m.ob.). Fur- ther details will be published elsewhere. 480 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS COLORADO & WYOMING 1 Lamar, Prowers County, Colorado seemed to be an Eastern Wood-Pewee magnet this spring, with three reports spread out in April and May. This individual, photographed IS May, was subsequently banded at the Lamar Community College. Photograph by David Leatherman. n. of usual, a Bewick’s Wren was a one-day wonder at Belmar Park, Jefferson 2 Apr (K. Schofield, IS). A Western Bluebird (female) in Lander, Fremont, WY 31 Mar (D. Wagner, S. Orange) would provide the first definitive modern record of the species in Wyoming, and anoth- er at Cache Creek, Teton 13 May 0- Good) would provide the 2nd (both p.a.). Easterly was the pair of Western Bluebirds on the e. plains at Chico, El Paso 18 Mar (RO). Region- ally rare, 3 Gray-cheeked Thrushes were seen, including singles at Chico 27 Apr (BKP et al.; Pueblo) and 3 May (b. BG; El Paso) and at Tamarack 12 May (SL). La Plata’s 3rd Varied Thrush remained from the winter until at least 23 Mar (m.ob.), and one at Jackson, Teton, WY 7 May (fide B. Raynes) was fairly late. West and at high elevation was the Brown Thrasher in Chaffee 25 May (SY). This species is also rare in sw. Colorado, thus the report of one near the New Mexico border in La Plata 28-29 May QBr, JBy) is noteworthy. The only report of Bo- hemian Waxwings was of the 10 seen near Cameron Pass, Larimer 6 Mar (DAL). Since the removal of Blue-winged Warbler from the Colorado review list (Semo, L. S., T. Leukering, and J. E. Stewart. 2002. Amend- ments to the state review list. J. of the Col- orado Field Ornithologists 36; 131-143), there have been few observations in the state, and only one was found in 2007, that being a male at Picture Canyon, Baca 21 Apr (R Dunne). Six Tennessee Warblers were in Colorado, a lower number than usual. In contrast, 11 Nashville Warblers, all from the e. plains, was a good number for that species. First discov- ered nesting at Yellowjacket Canyon, Mon- tezuma in 2004, at least 4 Lucy’s Warblers were found there this spring, first reported 28 Apr (m.ob.). Northern Parulas put on a grand show in e. Colorado, with no fewer than 21 reported during the season 5 Apr-19 May (m.ob.), with the lion’s share, 12, reported from Chico (El Paso and Pueblo). A mighty push of Chestnut- sided Warblers also oc- curred, with 17 reports from 10 e. Colorado counties (m.ob.). Very rare in Colorado, a mostly heard (briefly observed) Cape May Warbler was reported from Crow Val- ley 29 May (NE). Four Yellow-throated Warblers was about on the recent average in Colorado, with singles at Fair- mount Cemetery 3-8 May (BKP et al.) and 16- 18 May (DAL), Chico, Pueblo 5 May (m.ob.), and Fort Collins, Larimer 24 May (E Knopf). Establishing just the 5 th record for Wyoming, a Yellow-throated Warbler was photographed in Casper, Natrona, where present 9-10 May O&GL, CM). Grace’s Warbler is an irregular and localized breeder in Ponderosa Pine forests in se. Colorado, so a singing male at Florence Mountain Park, Eremont 23 May is of interest (MP). A female Bay-breasted Warbler at Wyoming’s Hereford Ranch, Laramie 19 May (G. Johnson; p.a.) would provide the 5th record for that state. The only odd report of the 3 Worm-eat- ing Warblers found came from montane L. Estes, Larimer 25-26 Apr (S. Roederer). Two each of Kentucky and Mourning Warblers were reported this season (all p.a.); sin- gles of the former were at L.C.C. 6 May (DN) and Rocky Ford S.W.A., Otero 12 May (MP, BSt, CW, S. Runco), while singles of the latter graced a private ranch in Lincoln 4 May (CW et al.) and Last Chance, Washington 10 May (TJ, K. Koff). The highlight warbler of the season was the Paint- ed Redstart that allowed some lucky birders ogling rights during its one-day stay at Canon City 25 Apr (RMi); the occurrence will estab- lish the 5th Colorado record. Greater scrutiny of mixed Ponderosa Pine and pinyon-juniper woodland in se. Colorado is showing that He- patic Tanagers are of regular occurrence in that portion of the state; 3 (2 males, one fe- male) were discovered 13 May at Bader Ranch (TL). The 15 Summer Tanagers reported from e. Colorado was a bit more than normal, and a male Scarlet Tanager brightened Duck Creek S.W.A., Logan 24 May (AS). “Pure” Eastern Towhees are very rare in Colorado, particularly outside late fall/winter, and song alone cannot preclude the possibility of a hybrid. Three Eastern Towhees were reported during the season: a female photographed at Chico, Pueblo 27 Apr (BM); a bird of unreported sex at L.C.C. 7 May (D. Russell, MG); and a female at Tamarack 12 May (SL). The tenet for the ear- ly arrival dates of Cassin’s Sparrow in Col- orado was always mid- to late Apr, but spo- radically in recent years singing individuals have appeared in se. Colorado much earlier. The first report this past spring came 18 Mar, when 2 birds were discovered at Chico, El Paso (RO); up to 30 birds were present there by 23 Mar (BM). Interestingly, few could be found there after early May. Despite Col- orado being in the presumed migration path- way of Baird’s Sparrow, there are only 1 1 ac- cepted records for the state, the dearth prob- ably being due to the secretive nature of the species and the fact that few Regional birders walk grasslands in search of the species. A Baird’s was reported by grassland birders 21 Apr near Campo, Baca (p.a.; CW, AS), though other observers present did not ob- tain good views. A Slate-colored Fox Spar- row was at Chico, El Paso 12 Apr (ph. BM) and provided one of very few good records for the plains. The far-west male Northern Cardinal dis- covered at Colorado Springs in winter re- mained until 17 Mar (C. Pals); other Col- A combination of ideal habitat, excellent geographic placement, and heavy coverage by a corps of dedicated local birders produce copious enviable finds at Chico Basin Ranch, Pueblo County, Colorado. Among this spring's highlights was a White-eyed Vireo 28 and 29 (here) April 2007. Photograph by Glenn Walbek. VOLUME 61 (2007) NUMBER 3 481 COLORADO & WYOMING orado reports of the species came from tradi- tional spots on the e. border. Westerly reports of Rose-breasted Grosbeak included one from Mancos, Montezuma 28 Apr-2 May (L. Flo- res) and another from Collbran, Mesa 30 May (LA). Three Painted Bunting reports (all p.a.) were all of singles: a male at La Veta, Huerfano 14-16 May (ph. P. Neidner); a female or hrst- spring male at Chico, El Paso 19 May (BKP, JD); and an ad. male at Bader Ranch 20 May (AS). Two Eastern Meadowlarks were report- ed from Colorado, one at Canon City (a first for Fremont) 12 May (MP et al.) and another near Loveland, Larimer 22-27 May (CW, NK). Only one Rusty Blackbird was reported, that being a bird photographed at a private ranch in Lincoln 27 Apr QK, GW, AH). Great-tailed Grackle sightings provided hrst county records for Natrona, WY (at Edness K. Wilkins SP 3 May [A. Hines] ) and for Custer (male at L. DeWeese 16 May [MP, BKPj). Al- though Orchard Oriole is a common breeder across the plains of e. Colorado, the species is only rarely observed on the West Slope. An excellent hnd was of an imm. male at Nucla, Montrose 14-16 Apr (ph. B. Wright, CD). A bit w. of usual was the imm. male Baltimore Ori- ole at Crow Valley 21 May (DAL, CW). Per- haps the easternmost Regional report ever of Scott’s Oriole was provided by an ad. male at Fairmount Cemetery 17 Apr (BG). A single Common Redpoll was at Sterling, Logan 6 Mar (K. Kranik). Last, but certainly not least, the bird of the season in Colorado was its hrst Lawrence’s Goldhnch, an ad. male, discov- ered at a Grand Junction, Mesa feeder 23 May (LA); more details will be provided in the summer report. Addendum: An ad. Lesser Black-backed Gull visited Rifle, Garfield 6 Sep 2006 (A. Dahl, ph. V. Zerbi) and would provide the hrst West Slope record (p.a.). Undocumented reports: A Wilson’s Plover was reported from Blue Mesa Res. 29 Apr Q- Berry), but no details are forthcoming; it would represent a hrst Regional record. Cited observers (subregional editors in bold- face): Larry Arnold, Jim Beatty (sw. Col- orado), Coen Dexter (w.-cen. Colorado), John Bregar, John Drummond, Norm Erthal, Doug Faulkner (Wyoming), Brian Gibbons, Matt Gracey, Tyler Hicks, Rachel Hopper, Tina Jones, Joey Kellner, Nick Komar, Steve Lar- son, Gloria and Jim Lawrence (statewide RBA - Wyoming), David A. Leatherman, Tony Leukering, Forrest Luke (nw. Col- orado), Joe Mammoser, Bill Maynard, Terry McEneaney (Yellowstone), Chris Michelson (Casper, WY), Rich Miller, Riley Morris, SeEt- ta Moss, Duane Nelson, Ric Olson, Susan Pat- la Qaekson, WY), Brandon K. Percival (se. Colorado), Mark Peterson, Bert Raynes Qaekson, WY), Betty Rickman, Ira Sanders, Bill Schmoker (Colorado Front Range), Lar- ry Semo (n.e. Colorado), Andrew Spencer, Brad Steger, Glenn Walbek (n.-cen. Col- orado), Cole Wild, Brenda Wright, Sherrie York. Many other individual observers con- tributed information to this report but could not be acknowledged here — they have our thanks and appreciation. iQ Tony Leukering, P.O. Box 660, Brighton, CO 80601 (greatgrayowl@aol.com) Lawrence S. Setno, 9054 Dover St. Westminster, CO 80021 (lsemo@swca.com) Bill Schmoker, 3381 Larkspur Dr. Longmont, CO 80503 (bill@schmoker.org) I Idaho & Western Montana On 1 1 March 2007, avid Montana birders Ed Harper and John Parker spotted an American Black Duck feeding among a large mixed species duck flock near Bozeman. It supplied western Montana's third record arid the first state report in eleven years. Photograph by Ed Harper. David Trochlell It was one of the ten warmest springs in the Region’s 113 years of recorded weather data. For Idaho, dry conditions held forth throughout the season, resulting in early runoff of a deheient snowpack, greatly re- duced surface water supplies, and the promise of summer drought. Much of Montana re- ceived generous precipitation late in the sea- son, but even so, mountain snowpack condi- tions remained critically low by season’s end. No unusual weather-related events were not- ed, but some observers reported fewer migrat- ing birds than usual because of the predomi- nating mild weather. Abbreviation: Camas (Camas N.W.R., Jeffer- son, ID); Latilong (area encompassed by one degree latitude and one degree longitude used in mapping bird distribution in both Idaho and Montana); L.M. (Lee Metcalf N.W.R., near Stevensville, MT). 482 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS IDAHO & WESTERN M0NTANA| Among the many sensational bird captures this spring at the Camas National Wildlife Refuge bird banding station was Idaho's second Wood Thrush on 19 May 2007. During its long stay at Camas, the bird was recaptured several times and was heard and seen by many thrilled birders. Photograph by Carlos Valeris. GEESE THROUGH GULLS Greater White-fronted Geese wandered wide- ly outside of typical range, with up to 12 in Kootenai, ID 11-29 Mar (m.ob.), 11 in Somers, MX 4 Apr (DC), up to 6 at L. Helena, MI 8-14 Apr (BM), and one near Belgrade, MX 16 Apr (LAH). Xhe only reported Cack- ling Goose was near Sandpoint, ID 9 Mar (EC). Xhe season’s Eurasian Wigeon count was unusually high, with 6 reported in Idaho and 10 in w. Montana. Pending acceptance, an American Black Duck photographed near Bozeman 11 Mar (ph., tEH, JP) will represent w. Montana’s 3rd record. A Eurasian Xeal was detected in Kootenai 21-25 Mar (tLH); two previous reports also hail from n. Idaho. Also notable was a Cinnamon Xeal x Blue-winged Xeal hybrid in Blaine, ID 31 Mar (PWP). Ear- ly and out of habitat was a Harlequin Duck near Kalispell, MX 28 Mar (DC). Now virtu- ally annual in Idaho, 2 Long-tailed Ducks were at Cascade 6 Apr (MC). Sandpoint, ID hosted a Red-throated Loon 14-16 Apr, a Pacific Loon 7 Mar-15 Apr, and a Yellow-billed Loon 1 Mar-16 Apr (tEC, GSh). Great Egrets wandered to Salmon, ID 5-6 May (HR), Bozeman, MX 7 May (Rl) and L.M. 20 May (ph. JH). Idaho’s 2nd Little Blue Heron visited Minidoka 2-9 May (ph., tSB, tCW). In a continuing trend, single Glossy Ibis discov- ered in Fremont 10 May and Jefferson 26 May (tCW) represented Idaho’s 6th and 7th records. White-faced Ibis also wandered out of range, with about 50 at Mann L., Nez Perce, ID 28 Apr (KCr), and singles in Montana loca- tions at Warm Springs 28 Apr (NK, GS), near Somers 18 May (RBH), and near Kalispell 29 May (BX). An Upland Sandpiper in Shoshone, ID 30 May (LH) represented a county first. Xhe Whimbrel at Mann L. 22-23 May (ph. KCr, BJ) was about Idaho’s 20th. Idaho’s 9th Hudsonian Godwit stopped in Fremont 15 May (ph., tCW). Unexpected in spring was a Stilt Sandpiper in Ada, ID 27 May (HK). A Red Phalarope at Mann L. 23-25 May (ph. KCr) represented Idaho’s 11th report and only the 2nd in spring. Xhough rare but regular in au- tumn, a Sabine’s Gull in Lake, MX 10 May (BR) was a surprising spring find. PIGEONS THROUGH FINCHES Xhe only Band-tailed Pigeon report came from Garden Valley, ID 30 Apr (fide SE). Eurasian Collared-Doves explored new loca- tions at Somers, MX 2 Apr (DC), Eureka, MX 5 Apr (LY), the Helena Valley, MX 2 Apr (BM), and Post Palls, ID 1 May (DW). Earli- est ever in nw. Montana were 8 Black Swifts in Somers 21 May (DC). Idaho’s 6th Eastern Phoebe visited Carey 16 Apr (PWP, JS). A to- tal of 6 Blue Jays in Idaho was about average for the period, but a pair seen carrying nest- ing material in Helena, MX 29 Apr (MM) was especially interesting. A Wood Xhrush at Ca- mas 19-31 May+ (tJC, ph. CV) was only Ida- ho’s 2nd report. Xhe Brown Xhrasher near Bozeman, MX since 23 Dec stayed until early Apr QP). At least one Brown Xhrasher was at Camas 16-23 May (ph. JC), where they are rare but nearly annual. Xhe Curve-billed Xhrasher that wintered in Eureka, MX re- mained through 24 Apr (LY). Xhe rare warbler tally at Camas included 2 Northern Parulas 26-27 May, a Magnolia Warbler 18-19 May, a Black-and-white War- bler 20 May, and at least 2 Ovenbirds 12-25 May (JC, BD). Single Ovenbirds were also re- ported in Ada, ID 15 May (RM) and near Bozeman, MX 28 May QP)- If accepted, a Hooded Warbler in Bozeman 4 May (MK) will be Montana’s 3rd. Xhe Gem State’s 14th Summer Xanager appeared in Jefferson 12 May (ph., tXM, tCW). Far n. of expected range was a Sage Sparrow in Garden Valley, ID 18 Mar (SW). Xhe Red Fox Sparrow that wintered in Gem, ID remained until 3 Apr (FZ). Especially rare in spring were Golden- crowned Sparrows near Nampa, ID 8 Mar (DH) and at Camas 18 May (GSt). Rose- breasted Grosbeaks visited feeders near Har- rison, MX 19 May (SBe), Salmon, ID 20 May (CK), Boise 20 May (JB), and in Lincoln, MX 22 May (BO). Always rare, an Indigo Bunting was discovered in Hailey, ID 14-18 Mar (CC). Xhough nearly absent from Idaho in recent years. Great-tailed Grackles were recorded in Twin Falls 29 Apr (ZW) and Jefferson 28 Apr-26 May (CW). A Lesser Goldfinch in Blackfoot, ID 17 Mar (BC) provided a first for Latilong 21. Contributors; (subregional editors in bold- face): IDAHO: John Battalio, Steve Bouffard, Kathleen Cameron, jay Carlisle, Keith Carl- son (KCr), Brian Carrigan, Mark Collie, Earl Chapin, Colleen Crane, Bob Davis, Sheri Foot, Lisa Hardy, Denise Hughes, Brian Jami- son, Cliff Keene, Harry Krueger, Xheresa Mathis, Robert Mortensen, Hadley Roberts, Jean Seymour, Gina Sheridan (GSh), Gary Stitzinger (GSt), Shirley Sturts, Chuck Xrost, Carlos Valeris, Spencer Walters, Doug Ward, Zeke Watkins, Cliff Weisse, Poo Wright-Pul- liam, Fred Zeillemaker. MONXANA: Stephanie Becker (SBe), Dan Casey, Ed Harp- er, Lou Ann Harris, Jim Heustess, Ron & Bar- bara Hurd, Radd Icenoggle, Mary Keck, Nate Kohler, Bob Martinka, Mike Merahan, Bob O’Leary, John Parker, Bob Rost, Gary Swant, Bruce Xannehill, Lewis Young. David Trochlell, 2409 East N Avenue La Grande, Oregon 97850, (dtrodilell@verizon.net) VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 483 Great Basin Rick FridefI Weather this spring was unremark- able, with many observers report- ing a slow spring migration. By the end of the season, most of the Region was un- seasonably hot, with temperatures well above average and returning drought conditions. As usual, spring migration brought a variety of rare and vagrant species to the Great Basin Region. Nevada highlights included a Zone- tailed Hawk near Lake Mead and many east- ern warblers, including Magnolia, Black- throated Blue, and Worm-eating Warblers. The second confirmed Philadelphia Vireo, a Common Ground-Dove, a Dickcissel, and a Lawrence’s Goldfinch were Utah highlights. 1 sincerely appreciate the individuals who sub- mitted a quarterly report and documentation on their sightings, and Fd like to extend a very special thanks to Joshua Kreitzer, who assisted with monitoring the hotlines and as- sembling the spring database. Abbreviations: Antelope I. (Antelope Island S.P. and Causeway, Davis, UT); Corn Cr. (Corn Creek Unit, Desert N.W.R., Clark, NV); Farmington Bay (Farmington Bay W.M.A., Davis, UT); H.B.'VE (Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve, Clark, NV); L. Mead (Lake Mead N.R.A., Clark, NY); Lytle (Lytle Ranch Pre- serve, Washington, UT); Miller’s R.A. (Miller’s Rest Area, Esmeralda, NV); Ouray (Ouray N.W.R., Uintah, UT); Red Hills (Red Hills G.C., St. George, Washington, UT); Zion (Zion N.E, Washington, UT). WATERFOWL THROUGH VULTURES Drake Eurasian Wigeons were reported 3 Mar at Clear L. W.M.A., Millard, UT (EH) and 9 Apr at Farmington Bay (ph. TA), and a female was found 10 Apr in West Reno, Washoe, NV (EK). A male and female Black Scoter, first located 23 Feb at Sand Hollow S.E, Washing- ton, UT lingered at least until 14 Mar (ph. RF). Up to 3 Long- tailed Ducks lingered at Antelope I. through 1 Apr (KE, JR), and 6 Barrow’s Goldeneyes were a surprise at Rock- port S.E, Summit, UT 23 Mar (KP). Utah’s 2nd confirmed Scaled Quail, first found 6 Jan OSh), were observed regularly through 14 Apr in Montezuma Creek, San Juan (LT et al). Low numbers of Horned Grebes are often observed in the Region; however, up to 25 wintering at Sand Hollow S.P., Washington, UT (15 Mar, RF et al.) was quite an unusual count. A Least Bittern was observed again this season at H.B.VE 11 May+ (TW, JBr). A pos- sible Glossy Ibis photographed 8 Apr at Hite Crossing, San Juan, UT (p.a., ph. TA, DSl) would be the 3rd for the state and the first for s. Utah. HAWKS THROUGH TERNS A White-tailed Kite was reported 11 Apr with limited details at Pahranagat N.W.R., Lincoln, NV (p.a., B&BD). Nevada provided all Red- shouldered Hawk reports this spring, with single individuals at Pahranagat N.W.R., Lin- Zone-tailed Hawk sightings have been on the rise in recent •/ears in the southern portion of the Great Basin, particu- larly southwestern Utah and southern Nevada. This individ- ual was photographed 9 April 2007 at the Boulder Beach Campground, Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Clark County, Nevada. Photograph by Dennis Ghiglieri. coin 3 Mar-5 Apr (B&BD), Lemmon Valley, Washoe 8 Mar (MMe), and West Reno, Washoe 5 Apr (AW). A single Broad-winged Hawk was observed 2 Apr flying over Central, Wash- ington, UT (LT), and another lin- gered at Lytle 20-28 Apr (LT et al). A Zone-tailed Hawk pho- tographed 9 Apr at Boulder Beach Campground, L. Mead (tRSt, ph. DG) constituted a rare s. Nevada record. Fall is usually the premier time for finding rare and vagrant shorebirds in the Great Basin, but this was an exceptional spring, with Antelope I., as usual, lead- ing the way with many notewor- thy sightings. Three American Golden-Plovers were pho- tographed there 16 Apr (TA), and a single was observed 10 May at One of only a few notable flycatchers observed in the Great Basin during spring 2007, this Eastern Phoebe was seen 10 (here) through 20 April at the Corn Creek Unit of the Desert National Wildlife Range, Clark County, Nevada. Photograph by Dennis Ghiglieri. H. B.VE OBr). Surprisingly high numbers of Whimbrels were reported in the Region, with 6 at Fallon, Churchill, NV 7 Apr (GS), one at Antelope 1. 27 Apr OBi, BH), one at Amargosa Valley, Nye, NV 20 May (GS), and 7 at Pan- guitch L., Gaijield, UT 31 May QKr, KW). A well-documented Hudsonian Godwit was found 22 Apr at Farmington Bay (J&KB, ph., TTA). Ruddy Turnstones were observed 3 Apr at Fallon, Churchill, NV (CNi) and 6 May at Antelope 1. O&KB). Ten breeding-plumaged Red Knots were reported 30 Apr at Antelope I. (p.a., TA). Unprecedented numbers of Semipalmated Sandpipers were reported in the Region this spring, led by a remarkable 40 observed 5 May at Antelope 1. (TA, CNe). Ad- ditional Semipalmated Sandpiper reports in- cluded an individual lingering at Lemmon Valley, Washoe, NV 23 Apr-6 May (HPe), 4 on at Chicken Creek Res., Juab, UT 27 Apr (TA, CNe), and one at Sand Hollow S.E, Washing- This Philadelphia ¥ireo was observed 24 May 2007 in Capitol Reef National Park, Wayne County, Utah — the state's second. The other state record comes from 27 October 2002. Photograph by Tim Avery. 484 N 0 R T H A M E R I C A N B I R D S GREAT BASIN One of several noteworthy eastern warbler sightings this spring in desert migrant traps, this Magnolia Warbler was found 28 May 2007 at Miller's Rest Area along Highway 6/95, Esmeralda County, Nevada. Photograph by Greg Scyphers. This Black-throated Blue Warbler made a rare spring appearance at the Cir- cle L Ranch, Esmeralda County, Nevada on 26 May 2007. Photograph by Martin Meyers. This male Hooded Warbler lingered 15 (here) through 19 April 2007 at the Torrance Ranch, Nye County, Nevada. Photograph by Greg Scyphers. ton, UT 8 May (RF). Three Baird’s Sandpipers were reported 17 Mar in Salt Lake, UT (CNe, TA), and 2 Pectoral Sandpipers were reported 28 Apr in St. George, Washington, UT (RF); both of these species are rarely found during spring migration in the Great Basin. A high count of 30 Dunlins at Carson L., Churchill, NV 7 Apr was noteworthy; up to 9 were at Antelope I. 22 Apr-5 May (TA, CNe et al.h Short-billed Dowitchers were observed at Amar- gosa Valley, Nye, NV 15 Apr (GS), H.B.VE 27 Apr-3 May (jrdeJBr), and the Hurricane Fields, Washington, UT 30 Apr (RF, ph. KW). Several wintering gulls lingered into the spring season, including Thayer’s Gulls at Farmington Bay (3 Mar; TA et al.) and Walker L., Miner- al, NV (9 Mar; MMe). Utah’s first documented Western Gull (original- ly found 27 Dec) lingered at Farm- ington Bay through at least 4 Mar (tTA, KP). At least 2 wintering Glau- cous Gulls lingered in Davis and Salt Lake, UT through 3 Mar (TA et al.). A possible Common Tern, rare in the Region in spring, was reported 15 May at the Lee Kay Ponds. Salt Lake, UT (TA). DOVES THROUGH WOODPECKERS Wayward White-winged Doves were found n. of expected range at Fish Springs N.W.R., Juab, UT 16 Apr OBa), Jensen, Uintah, UT 2 May (C&CJ), Dugway, Tooele, UT 20 May (CZ), and Dyer, Esmeral- da, NV 26 May QD, GS, RSt et al.). A Common Ground-Dove was ob- served in Santa Clara, Washington, UT 26 Apr-7 May (ph. LR); if sub- mitted and accepted, this will be the 4th confirmed Utah record for this species. The only Vaux’s Swift observed outside of expected Ne- vada areas was at Willard Bay S.R, Box Elder, UT (TKP, ph. TA). A fe- male Magnificent Hummingbird was reported at a West Las Vegas residence, Clark, NV 7-17 Mar (p.a., ph. PG), and a male Costa’s Hummingbird made a surprise ap- pearance at a West Reno, Washoe, NV feeder 18 Apr (AW). An Acorn Woodpecker was observed 28 Apr near Kolob Res., Washing- ton, UT (RF). A juv. Yellow-bellied Sapsucker was reported 2 Mar at Lytle (p.a., LT), and an ad. female was seen 15 Apr at Salt Cr., Canyonlands N.P., San Juan, UT (tBGa). There are only two previously accepted Yel- low-bellied Sapsucker records in Utah. A Ladder-backed Woodpecker was a nice sur- prise in Dyer, Esmeralda, NV (6 May; GS, RSt, DG). One of three Hooded Warblers foond in Nevada in spring 2007, this fe- male remained 27-31 (here 28) May at Miller's Rest Area, Esmeralda County, a well-known vagrant trap in west-central Nevada. Photograph by Greg Scyphers. FLYCATCHERS THROUGH WARBLERS It was a relatively uneventful spring for fly- catchers in the Region, with the notable ex- ception of a Least Flycatcher observed 31 May at Miller Spring, Juab, UT (RF) and one to 2 Eastern Phoebes observed 10-20 Apr at Corn Cr. (RSt, ph. DG, ph. GS, m.ob.). Ver- milion Flycatchers were reported at the unex- pected locations of Escalante, Garfield, UT (18 May; LG) and Hurricane, Washington, UT (22 May; MG). Utah’s 2nd accepted Philadel- phia Vireo was a singing individual 24 May at the Capitol Reef N.P picnic area, Wayne, UT (ph.,tTA). A possible Gray-cheeked Thrush was observed at Lytle 22-26 May (p.a., RE, LT); this species is not currently on the Utah state list. Six Varied Thrushes were reported from four Nevada counties (Clark, Esmeralda, Pershing, and Washoe) between 1 1 Mar and 25 May; however, the only Utah report was from 1 Apr at Smithfield, Cache (SD). Surprising sightings of mimids included a Gray Catbird photographed at Lytle 22 May (ph. RE) and a Brown Thrasher at Porter Springs, Pershing, NV 18 May (EP). Nevada provided four Northern Parula re- ports, including singles at Corn Cr. (11 Apr; RSt, DG, ph. GS), Dyer Pond, Esmeralda (19 May; GS, MMe), Dyer, Esmeralda (19 May; GS, MMe), and Tonopah, Nye (26 May; MMe, GS, D&RSe et al). Utah’s only parula was at Red Hills 21-22 May (ph. RE, tTA). A male Magnolia Warbler brightened Miller’s R.A. 28 May (D&RSe, ph. GS et al), and a female Black-throated Blue Warbler made a surprise spring appearance at the Circle L Ranch, Es- meralda, NV 26 May QD- ph. MMe, ph. GS, ph. tDV). Equally surprising was singing male Blackpoll Warbler near Gunlock S.R, Washington, UT (26 May; LT). The only Black-and-white Warbler reported this spring was an early individual at Lytle 21 Apr (MW). Several American Redstarts were observed VOlUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 485 GREAT BASIN Lark Buntings are rare migrants in the Great Basin region and so this male was a surprise 12-13 (here 13) May 2007 in Dyer, tograph by Greg Scyphers. during May, including an ad. male at the Ar- lemonte Ranch, Esmeralda, NV (12 May; MMe, G&ES, DG, RSt), 2 at a private ranch. Box Elder, UT (18 May; CNe, TA), a male at Dyer Pond, Esmeralda, NV (19 May; GS, MMe), and females at Spring Mountain S.R, Clark, NV (22 May; J&rMC) and Torrance Ranch, Nye, NV (27 May; RSt, DG, GS, MMe). A Worm-eating Warbler was a great hnd 25 May at Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, Clark, NV (p.a., DF). No fewer than 4 Ovenbirds were observed in Ne- counties (Box Elder, Davis, and Juab). Surprisingly, 3 Hooded Warblers were found in Nevada, including an early male 15-19 Apr at Torrance Ranch, Nye (ph. GS, JM), a male lingering 5-14 May at Red Rock Canyon National Conser- vation Area, Clark (ph. TC, ph. MK, DC, JB), and a fe- male at Miller’s R.A. 27-31 May (GS, D&RSe, ph. JSa). Painted Redstarts were ob- served again this spring in Zion Canyon, Zion; the first was found on 4 Apr (PR), and up to 3 singing individuals were observed through 28 Apr (RF, tTA et ah). particularly in Nevada, Esmeralda County. Pbo- The female Dickcissel was found in the orchard 20 May 2007 at Lytle Ranch along the Beaver Dam Wash, Washington County, Utah. Dickcissels are very rare in the Great Basin, and this individual was the only the third confirmed in Utah. Photograph by Tim Avery. vada: at the Circle F. Ranch and Dyer Pond, Esmeralda (19 May; GS, MMe), Tonopah Cemetery, Nye (26 May; MMe, GS, D&RSe et ah), and Porter Springs, Pershing (29 May; ph. GS). Twelve Northern Waterthrushes were observed 1-19 May in three Nevada (Clark, Esmeralda, and White Pine) and three Utah SPARROWS THROUGH FINCHES There were a few noteworthy sparrow sight ings this spring, including a Clay-colored Sparrow lingering at Fytle 23-29 Apr (RF, FT), an ad. male Lark Bunting 12-13 May at the Arlemonte Ranch, Esmeralda, NV (MMe, ph. GS, RSt, DG), and Swamp Sparrows at Washoe L., Washoe, NV (28 Apr; H&KP) and Miller's R.A. (11 May; FP). Additional Lark Buntings were re- ported this May in Calao, Juab, UT (CG, Jide RSt). Eight Rose-breasted Grosbeaks turned up during May in three Nevada (Clark, Washoe, and White Pine) and two Utah counties (San Juan and Washington). A female Painted Bunting made a brief appearance 19 May at the Dyer Pond, Es- meralda, NV (GS). One of biggest sur- prises of the season was Utah’s 3rd con- firmed Dickcissel record — a female pho- tographed 20 May in the orchard at Lytle (ph., tTA). Male Bobolinks made rare spring ap- pearance in the s. portion of the Region 22 May at Spring Mountain S.R, Clark, NV O&MC) and 26 May at Lytle (FT). A Com- mon Grackle was a nice find 12 May at the Arlemonte Ranch, Esmeralda, NV (MMe, G&ES, DG, RSt). Hooded Orioles were ob- served n. of their expected range in Reno, Washoe, NV 29 Apr-11 May QA, AG, DM) and at Miller’s R.A. 26 May (D&RSe et ah). And finally, a male Lawrence’s Goldfinch vis- ited a feeder 20-31 Mar in Dammeron Valley, Washington, UT (ph., tBL, TA, JBi, FT); this is Utah’s 4th accepted record for this species, all since 2002. Contributors and cited observers; Elisabeth Ammon, John G. Anderson, Keith Archibald, Tim Avery, Mike Baker, jay Banta QBa), Joel & Kathy Beyer, Jack Binch QBi), Jim Boone QBo), Je Anne Branca OBr), Ted Cassidy, Joan Clarke, Eric Clough, Donna Crail-Rugotzke, James & Marian Cressman, Bob & Betty Dav- enport, Marilyn Davis, Alan de Queiroz, Sue Drowne, Jon Dunn, Keith Evans, Darlene Feener, Rick Fridell, Patrick Gaffey, Mike Gale, Cecil Garland, Chris Gardner (CGa), Brian Gatlin (BGa), Dennis Ghiglieri, Lu Gid- dings, Cindy Goddard (CGo), Bob Goodman (BGo), Alan Gubinach, Dave Hanscom, William Henry, Sue Hinde,- Nancy Hoffman, Alona Huffaker, Eric Huish, Bob Huntington, Pat Jividen, Clay & Cliftia Johnson, Joe Kahl OKa), Maureen Kammerer, Joshua Kreitzer OKr), Ed Kurtz, Tiffany Lance, Liz LaRue, Bob Lawson, Sue Ann Marshall, Martin Mey- ers (MMe), Randy & Babette Michal, Don Molde, Milt Moody (MMo), Jim Moore, Russ Namitz, Colby Neuman (CNe), Tom Neu- man, Chris Nicolai (CNi), Deedee O’Brien, Kathy Oakes, Fred Petersen, Harold & Kelly This striking male Lawrence's Goldfinch visited a feeder in Dammeron Valley, Washington County, Utah, from 20 to 31 March 2007 (here 20 March). Lawrence's Goldfinch occurrences have been on the rise in the Great Basin in recent years with nearly annual sightings in southern Nevada. This is the fourth documented sight- ing in Utah, all since October, 2002. Photograph by Bob Lawson. Peterson, Stephen Peterson, Carl Perretta (CPt), Carol Perry (CPr), Randy Pontius, Kristin Purdy, Laurie Rasmussen, Jack Rensel, Georgia & Ken Rohrs, Pete Rowland, Buck Russell, Josh Sayers QSa), John Schijf (JSc), Rita Schlageter (RSc), Erika Scyphers, Greg Scyphers, Dennis Serdehely (DSe), Rebecca Serdehely (RSe), Justin Shirley QSh), Dave Slager (DSl), Arnold Smith, Rose Strickland (RSt), Carolyn Titus, Steve Ting, Larry Tripp, David Vander Pluym, Alan Wallace, Merrill Webb, Therese Werst, Kevin Wheeler, & Can- dy Zaffis. O Rick Fridell, Utah Division ofWildlife Resources 3505 West 290 North, Hurricane, Utah 84737 (rfridell@redrock.net) 486 NORTH AMERICAN BIROS New Mexico Sartor 0. Wiiliams I Removal of livestock from much of New Mexico’s parched rangelands, followed by a year of surprisingly generous pre- cipitation, combined to present an unusual landscape in spring 2007 — widespread rela- tively healthy grasslands and shrublands. One consequence of this bounty was booming small mammal populations, resulting in at- tractive conditions for many birds of prey, in- cluding breeding White-tailed Kites, North- ern Harriers, and Long-eared Owls. Mean- while, several high profile rarities were found, including reappearance of Green Kingfisher on the Gila River and Buff-breasted Flycatch- er in the Animas Mountains. Abbreviations: B.L.N.W.R. (Bitter Lake N.W.R.); E.B.L. (Elephant Butte L); G.B.A. (Gila Bird Area, Grant)', Maxwell (Maxwell N.W.R. and vicinity); N.R.T. (n. Roosevelt mi- grant trap w. of Melrose); R.G.N.C. (Rio Grande Nature Center, Albuquerque); R.G.V. (Rio Grande Valley); R.S. (Rattlesnake Springs area, Eddy); W.S.M.R. (White Sands Missile Range). SWANS THROUGH FALCONS Surprising was an ad. Trumpeter Swan at En- bom L., Rio Arriba 12 May (DS). Last Tundra Swans were 3 near Cherry L., Mora 2 Mar (WWi) and one at Stubblefield L. 2-4 Mar (ph. DC, CMB). A female Lesser Scaup at B.L.N.W.R. 15-17 May (DK) was believed to be nesting. A female Long-tailed Duck at Stubblefield L. 2 Mar-20 Apr was joined by a another female 14 Apr (ph. DC). Noteworthy for the lower Rio Grande were 2 Common Goldeneyes near Hatch 22-23 Mar (ph. CL, MS, ph. JZ, DG). Four Chukars, a Ring- necked Pheasant, and 4 Northern Bobwhites in the Mimbres Valley, nw. Luna 27 Mar (LM) provided evidence of illegal game bird releas- es in sw. New Mexico. Single Pacific Loons were at Six Mile Dam, Eddy 10-16 Mar (SW, jP, WWi) and Ute L. 26 Apr (RV). Scarce in the ne., a Western Grebe was near Clayton 25 Mar (LS); 2 Clark’s were e. to Clovis 25 May Op). An active Brown Pelican season pro- duced an ad. found dead at L. Lucero, Dona Ana 5 Mar (ph. D. Bustos), an ad. at Bonito L., Lincoln 19 Apr (EL), and an imm. downed by a storm at Upper Gallinas Campground in the Black Range, Grant 18 May (ph. JO). Double- crested Cormorant again nested at Clovis, with five active nests there 25 May QO); some 14 Double-crested nests, but no Neotropic nests, were n. of E.B.L. 9 May (RD). An ad. male Anhinga at Bosque 24 Mar (G. Loos) provided New Mexico’s 5th record. Up to 3 American Bitterns were at B.L.N.W.R. 20 Mar-6 May QH et al.), and one was at Mesilla 31 Mar-12 Apr (CL, MS, JZ, DG). Among several small Great Blue Heron colonies reported were one nest at Morgan L. 11 May (TR) and two nests each on the Nava- jo R. near Duke 9 May (DS), Chama R. s. of Chama 4 Apr (DS), Apache Cr., Catron 1 May (EL), and Mule Cr., Grant 12 May (EL). An imm. Little Blue Heron at Brantley L. 30 May (SW) provided the lone report. Single ad. Tricolored Herons were at Stubblefield L. 12 May (ph. DC) and B.L.N.W.R. 23-29 May (m.ob., ph. JO). An ad. Reddish Egret wandered n. to Sumner L. 4 May (ph. CL). High counts for Cat- tle Egrets were 158 at Belen 15 Apr (DH) and 400 in s. Dona Ana 20 Apr (DG); 4 were at Carrizozo 28 May QO). Earliest Green Heron was one at Six Mile Dam 24 Mar (SW); un- usual for the locale was one at N.R.T. 11 May QP)- An ad. Yellow- crowned Night-Heron was on a nest at Las Vegas 12-31 May (WWe, ph. L. Betlach, JP, WWi, ph. JO), the 2nd documented instance of New Mexico nesting. Migrant Glossy Ibis were much in evidence, with reports of ads. from eight locales in five counties: one at Bosque 8-13 Apr (CMB, ph. JB, ph. MB), 2 there 14 Apr (ph. JO), and a late one there 26 May (ph. JO, ph. CL); one near Vado, Dona Ana 12 Apr (MS, ph. JZ); an ad. at B.L.N.W.R. 15-17 May (MB, DK) and an imm. there 29 May (ph. DE- B); singles at two Vermejo Ranch sites 4 May (ph. DC), at French L. 8 May (ph. DC) and at Stubblefield L. 7 & 12 May (ph. DC), plus a late one there 31 May (ph. JO); and one at Heron L. 12-13 May (WH, ph. DK, m.ob.). Taking advantage of an abundant prey base. White-tailed Kites were much in evi- dence in the sw., with one in Dona Ana 3 May (MS, ph. JZ), 2 on Otero Mesa 8 May (RM), and others in Luna (DH, SOW) and Hidalgo (NM-C, AC) Apr-May, including a nest with eggs in s. Luna 19 Apr (RM) and a nest with 3 young in s. Hidalgo 13 May (ph. CL, ph. CRB). For the 2nd consecutive year, a Missis- sippi Kite was n. in the R.G.V to San Juan Pueblo 19 May (BF). Only one Bald Eagle ter- ritory was active in Colfax (fide C. Hayes), down from three there in recent years; a nest in n. Rio Arriba had one large young by 31 May (DS). Another grassland species that benefited from ample prey availability was Northern Harrier, with evidence of local nest- ing in Hidalgo, Luna, Socoiro, Sierra, Dona Ana, Otero, Colfax, Chaves, and Eddy, includ- ing prey delivery and territorial defense at B.L.N.W.R. 17 May (DK), a nest with eggs on Otero Mesa 6 May (RM), an ad. with fledg- lings in Doha Ana 12 May (MS, JZ), and prey exchange w. of Columbus 27 May (SOW). Common Black-Hawks where seldom report- ed included single ads. at L. Roberts 12 & 25 May (DB, J. DeLong), an ad. at Mesilla 12 Apr (ph. DG), and an imm. near Anthony 27 Apr (MS, ph. JZ); n. in the R.G.V. were singles at Santa Clara Pueblo 16 May (ph. V LaPolla) and Cochiti Dam 20 Apr (DK). Small num- bers of Harris’s Hawks were noted across the sw. in Hidalgo (NM-C, AC, JP), Luna (LM, This Yellow-crowned Night-Heron on a nest beside the Gallinas River at Las Vegas, San Miguel County 12-31 (here 20) May 2007 documented the sec- ond New Mexico breeding effort by the species since 2003. Photograph by Laurie Betlach. VOLUME 61 (2007) NUMBER 3 487 NEW MEXICO Over a dozen Glossy Ibis were found in New Mexico in spring 2007, with reports from five counties; this adult was near Heron Lake, Rio Arriba County 12-13 (here 13) May 2007. Photograph by David J. Krueper. JB), Dona Ana (DG, CL, MS, JZ), and Otero ((WWi, CL); unusual were one to 2 at R.S. Apr-May (ni.ob.). One to 2 Broad-winged Hawks were at eight sites from the R.G.Y eastward during the narrow 20 Apr-12 May period (m.ob.). Gray Hawk continued its spread into New Mexico, with singles in Guadalupe Canyon 8 & 14 Apr QB, JP) and two active nests there 8 May (NM-C et ah), 2 ads. at Clanton Cienega 12 May (NM-C), and a well-documented pair at R.S. 22 Apr-May (m.ob., ph. JO). Earliest Swainsons Hawks were one near Radium Springs 21 Mar (MS) and a roost of 12 at Luis Lopez 25 Mar OO); >. . (_ v , Taking advantage of abundant small mammal prey, White- tailed Kites were found at several sites across southwestern New Mexico, including this adult tending nestlings in the Animas Valley, Hidalgo County 13 May 2007. Photograph by Charles R. Britt. surprising in spruce-hr habitat at 3055 m was one at Cumbres Pass 11 May (DK,JR). Scarce in the lower R.G.Y, a Zone-tailed Hawk was s, of Radium Springs 28-29 Apr (CL, MS, JZ). Noteworthy for DeBaca was an active Ferrug- inous Hawk nest near Sumner L. 7 & 19 May QB). A 2nd year of Golden Eagle surveys in ne. New Mexico documented 46 ac- tive nests in Mar (DS), bringing the two-year total there to 68 nests active in one or both years. Yery late was a Merlin at Cum- bres Pass 12 May (DK). PLOVERS THROUGH SKIMMER A good American Golden- Plover season found 2 drab birds at L. Avalon 12 Apr (SW) and one at Bosque 27 Apr (ph. JO); singles in breeding dress were at B.L.N.W.R. 5-6 May QP. WWi, ph. JO, ph. CL) and Maxwell 28-30 May (ph. DC). High water that flooded shore- lines and mud flats hampered efforts to survey for Snowy Plovers, including greatly reducing detections at B.L.N.W.R, (DK); notable discoveries in- cluded 20 at Grulla N.W.R. 31 May (DK), 4 at Lane Salt L., Lea 30 May (DK), 7 at Williams Sink ne. of Carlsbad 23 May (DK), one at Big Salt L., e. Sierra 8 May (WH), and an ad. with 2 chicks at L. Lucero 22 May (MEW, fide WH). High count for Semipalmated Plovers was 6 at Bosque 22 Apr (BY). Early were 10 Black-necked Stilts at Belen 10 Mar (BY). Earliest Solitary Sandpipers were singles at B.L.N.W.R. 6 Apr (JH), Animas Yalley 13 Apr QP). and Corralitos Ranch, w. Doha Ana 16 Apr (CL, MS, JZ). Willet maxi- ma were 75 at Lordsburg 27 Apr (LM), 68 w. of Las Cruces 3 May (MS, JZ), and 45 at Cochiti L. 26 Apr (YAVe); noteworthy for Catron was one at Quemado L. 28 Apr (DB). A good Whimbrel season found an early one at L. Avalon 12 Apr (SW), a high 5 at Holloman L. 3 May (ph. LM), one at B.L.N.W.R. 22 May Q- Montgomery), and 3 at Brantley L. 22 May (ph. RD). A Hudsonian Godwit was at B.L.N.W.R. 26-27 May (ph. N. Gains, R McConnell). Scarce in the sw, a Marbled Godwit was at Lordsburg 13 Apr (JR VAVi); late was one at Brazel L. near Tularosa 25 May (CL). A Sanderling was early at Lordsburg 13 Apr OR WWi) and another was w. to Morgan L. 1 1 May (TR); high counts were 4 at B.L.N.W.R. 14 May QH) ^ at Springer L. 17 May (DC). Bright Semipalmated Sandpipers w. of the plains were one at Bosque 21 Apr QP) and 3 at Holloman L. 3 May (LM). White-rumped Sandpiper arrived on schedule with 2 at B.L.N.W.R. 15 May (DK); w. of usual were 8- 10 at Bosque 17-18 May (MB, NR JO), one in the Uvas Yalley, Doha Ana 20 May (ph. CL, - MS,JZ) and 3 there 31 May (MS, ph. JZ), and up to 7 at Holloman L. 25-28 May (ph. CL, ph. JO). A Rectoral Sandpiper at Casa Col- i orado, Valencia 12 May (CMB) provided the ' lone report. A late Dunlin was at B.L.N.W.R. 5 ; May QR). Impressive for the R.G.Y. were 120 Stilt Sandpipers at Bosque 17 May (MB, NR); one was at Albuquerque 29 Apr (JR BY). Mi- grant Wilsons Rhalaropes numbered 1180 at 1 B.L.N.W.R. 4 May QH) and 1000 at Laguna , Grande 6 May (DK). Red-necked Phalaropes j where seldom seen included 6 at Heron L. 23 f May (DE-B), 2 in the Uvas Yalley 29 May i QO), and 2 at Corralitos Ranch 6 May (MS, ph. JZ). Last of the wintering Mew Gulls was I one at E.B.L. 10 Mar QP. WWi). An Iceland Gull at E.B.L. 6-10 Mar (ph. DC, ph. GR JP et al.) was believed to be the same one docu- ? mented at nearby Caballo L. in Feb. An ad. Least Tern was w. to Holloman L. 28 May | (CL); high counts at Brantley L. amounted to ! only 5 ads. 22 & 28 May (RD, SW), where high water was a problem. Caspian Terns were 2 at Cochiti L. 26 Apr (VAVe) and sin- gles at L. Avalon 27 Apr (SW), Holloman L. 3 May (ph. LM), and Clovis 15 May (MB). Black Tern maxima were 75 at Bosque 17 May (NP), 40 at Stubblefield L. 15 May (DC), and 35 at B.L.N.W.R. 18 May QS). Yery early was a Forster’s Tern at B.L.N.W.R. 4 Apr (JH); a high 50 were at Cochiti L. 1 May (MLW). New Mexico’s 6th Black Skimmer was an ad. at Heron L. 12 May (WH, ph. MH). DOVES THROUGH FLYCATCHERS New Mexico’s cleanest Rock Pigeon was again nesting on a moving robotic arm inside a Los Lunas car wash 17 Mar (DH). Two Eurasian Collared-Doves were vocal at 2400 m near Chama 12 May (DK). A Common Ground- This Iceland Gull at Elephant Butte Lake, Sierra County, New Mexico 6-10 (here 7) March 2007 was likely the same one photographed at nearby Ca- ballo Lake in February — but different from the state's first, a bird that wintered at Sunland Park. Photograph by Gary K. Froehikh. 488 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS NEW MEXICO Long-eared Owls nested widely in New Mexico this season, including this adult with nestlings at Hackberry Well, White Sands Missile Range, Otero County 11 April 2807. Photo- graph by Carl G. Lundblad. Dove was with 2 Inca Doves at Rodeo 14 Apr QP). Greater Roadrunner continued in evi- dence nw. to San Juan, where one that win- tered in n. Farmington was seen again 8 Apr (ph. E. Bickford) and a pair was present 28 May (TR); others were singles at San Juan College 11 May (fide TR), Berg- Animas Park 18-20 May (Jide TR), and Blanco 15 May (M. Ismay, Jide TR). A Flammulated Owl was found impaled on an ocotillo stalk at San An- dres N.W.R. 25 Apr (ph. MEW). Eddy Elf Owls numbered 7 in Last Chance Canyon 12 May (SW) and 8 in Dark Canyon 14 May (A. Johnson); noteworthy for Doha Ana was one at Davies Tank 6 May (DG). Another species that availed itself of abundant small mammal prey this season was Long-eared Owl, found nearly statewide and with active nests docu- mented in nine counties, including two nests along the Vermejo R. (ph. DC) and single nests at or near Cerrillos (LS), Corrales (GG), Albuquerque, (GG), Tijeras (D. Dane), Rodeo (RW), Hachita (RM), Hermanas (RM), Jorna- da Range (CRB, CL), Hackberry Well, W.S.M.R. (ph. CL), and Otero Mesa (RM). Not surprising in years of good grassland con- ditions, Short-eared Owls were relatively plentiful, including one or more in the Ani- mas Valley 12 May (NM-C), one at McKinney Tank near Antelope Wells 3 Mar (DG), at least one near Hermanas 1-28 Apr (DH, RM) and 2 there 27 Apr (DH), 2 on W.S.M.R., e. Socorro 10 May (ph. D. Burkett), and singles at two Milnesand sites 13 & 14 Apr (T. Mitchusson). A Whip-poor-will returned n. to the Sandia Mts. 12 May (BV), while note- worthy for the Organ Mts. were 2 singing at Aguirre Springs 27-28 Apr (CL) and 4 singing there 12 May (MS, JZ); on the e. plains, one was at Boone’s Draw 12 May QP)- Two male Costa’s Hummingbirds were singing in Guadalupe Canyon 8 Apr QB); sin- gle male Rufous were reported at L. Roberts 19 Mar and 13 Apr (Jide DB). For the 2nd consecutive year, a Green Kingfisher ap- peared on the Gila R. near Gila, where dis- covered 15 May (HW) and seen again 19 (JP, WWi) & 29 May (HW). Lewis’s Woodpeck- ers in unexpected locales were singles at Edgewood 19-24 Apr (CC) and Oscura Mts., e. Socorro 21 Mar (CL); one that wintered at Virden was still there 30 Mar (jP). Gila Woodpeckers increased along Deer Cr. near Antelope Wells, where 10 were found 3-4 Mar (CL). A Red-naped Sapsucker was e. to N.R.T. 6 May QP). where rare in spring. A Ladder-backed Woodpecker was near Cimar- ron 1 Mar (ph. DC), where rare at any sea- son. Downy Woodpeckers s. in the R.G.V were singles at San Acacia 20 May (BV), Luis Lopez 14 Mar QO). and Las Palomas 7 Apr (CL); one at Quarai 4 May (HS) was a local first. An American Three-toed Woodpecker persisted at San- dia Crest 4 & 25 Mar (WH, JP). Single Least Flycatchers were at N.R.T. 11-13 QP), 17 (MB, NP), & 31 May (DK) and at Boone’s Draw 12 May QP)- A Hammond’s Flycatcher that wintered at Percha was still there 24 Mar QP); a Dusky that wintered at Bosque was singing 18 Mar (DH). Noteworthy was a singing Hammond’s Fly- catcher at Sugarite S.P 19 May (CH), where Dusky is the com- mon breeder. A Buff-breasted Flycatcher was in burned for- est near Aspen Spring, Animas Mts. 12 May (ph. CL, ph. CRB); since its reappearance in New Mexico in 1995, the species has been reported in 10 of 13 years. Black Phoebes on their n. frontier were four pairs in the Cimarron-Springer area in May (DC), a pair at Sumner Dam 26 May OP), ‘'ttd 2 at Trigg Ranch, e. San Miguel 11 May (MDM). Eastern Phoebe nests were one with eggs in nw. Union 25 May (DS) and another at Trigg Ranch 11 May (ph. MDM). Dusky-capped Flycatcher re- turned n. to Cherry Creek Campground, where there were 2 on 25 May (M. Fugagli). A Great Kiskadee at B.L.N.W.R. 13 May (ph. JH) provided a Chaves first. Peripheral Scis- sor-tailed Flycatchers were singles w. to Mesilla 14-15 Apr (ph. CL, MS, ph. JZ) and Yeso 28 Apr (JO) and n. to San Jon and Glen- rio 20 May (WH). VIREOS THROUGH THRUSHES White-eyed Vireo was surprisingly plentiful, especially in the Cliff-Gila Valley, where singing singles were at Fort West Ditch 21 May (RS), the Nature Conservancy’s farm 18 May QP. WWi, vt. JO), the Hwy. 211 bridge over the Gila R. 18 & 20 May (vt. JO), and G.B.A. 28 May (RS), and at nearby Mangas Springs 18 May (vt. JO); others were singles at Corrales 25 May (TF), R.G.N.C. 3 May (b., ph. MM), and N.R.T. 26 Apr (RV). Notewor- thy for the e. plains was a Bell’s Vireo at N.R.T. 15 & 17 May (MB, NP). A Gray Vireo singing in Pinyon Canyon 19 May (HS) confirmed presence in the Los Pinos Mts., and a pair was on the McGregor Range in W. McAffee Canyon, s. Sacramento Mts. 18 May (CL, CRB), a local first; surveys in the Organ Mts. documented seven territories in Soledad Canyon, one in North Canyon, and one at Aguirre Springs Apr-May (CL, CRB, DG, MS, JZ). Another good Yellow-throated Vireo sea- son produced singles at Corrales 22 Apr (S. Drilling, CR), Sumner Dam 26 May (JP, WWi), N.R.T. 29 Apr QO, DM) and 11-14 Since its reappearance in New Mexico in 1995, Buff-breasted Flycatcher has been reported in 10 of 11 years through 2007; this one was in the Animas Mountains, Hidalgo County 12 May 2007. Photograph by Charles R. Britt. VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 489 NEW MEXICO One of eight reported in New Mexico in spring 2007, this White-eyed Vireo was banded at Albuquerque, Bernalillo County on 3 May. Photograph by Michael D. Means. May OR DH, RV), and Elida 6 May (MB). For the 2nd consecutive year, a Plumbeous Vireo pair nested in the middle R.G.V near Veguita 31 May (DH). The only detailed Blue-headed Vireo was at N.R.T. 13 May QP)- Providing a first for the e. plains was a Huttons Vireo at N.R.T. 27 Apr OP WWi); in the Organ Mts., two pairs — including one feeding nestlings — were at Aguirre Springs 28 Apr (ph. CL), and singles were at Dripping Springs 20 Apr (DC) and Fillmore Canyon 27 May (CL). A male Red-eyed Vireo was near Cedar Crest (where also detected in 2005 and 2006) 28 Apr-May (CMB, JP BV ph. DE-B, JB, m.ob.), but re- ports of possible nesting there were not con- firmed; others were singles at Sugarite S.R 11 May (DC), N.R.T. 12 May QP), and B.L.N.W.R. 12 May OP)- Single Blue Jays were w. to Santa Fe 16 Apr OB) and Albuquerque 24 Mar-22 Apr (DM). A Black-billed Magpie was s. to Manzano 5 Mar (WWi), American Crows were nesting at Edgewood 23 Apr (CC) and Farmington 28 May (TR). A pair of Chihuahuan Ravens feed- ing nestlings ne. of Raton 16 May (CH) was the most northerly yet for Col/ox; n. in the R.C.V. were 2 e. of Cochiti L. 1 Apr (WH). Early were 3 Purple Martins n. to Dillon Canyon near Raton 1 May (ph. DC). Up to 34 Tree Swallows were nesting at Chama 12 May (WH). Unusually early was a Cliff Swallow at Bosque 10 Mar (DH); early for the n. were up to 16 at Cochiti L. 1 Apr (WH, BV). Cave Swallows expanded n. in Eddy, with 2 at a new breeding site near Rocky Arroyo 3 & 13 Mar (b., SW); in Dona Ana, Caves included 12 at the La Union colony 19 May (CL), with smaller num- bers found at three addi- tional sites n. to Radium Springs Apr-May (MS, JZ). Unexpected e. to the Texas line, a Bushtit was near Causey 15 Apr (CR). A Red-breasted Nuthatch was on Organ Peak 11 May (CL). Single singing Car- olina Wrens were near the State Capitol, Santa Fe 29 Mar-27 Apr (WWe, ph. JB, m.ob.) and in Albu- querque’s North Valley 29 Apr-29 May (R. Thomson, WH). Single Winter Wrens were near Milnesand 14 Apr (DM) and in San An- dres Canyon, Doha Ana 6 Apr (CL). Up to 4 Colden-crowned Kinglets, including at least one singing male, were e. to Sugarite S.P 2 May (CH). Eastern Bluebirds continued to in- crease in numbers and range in the middle R.C.V, with nests and/or fledglings at seven sites from Bernalillo s. to Socorro (DH, WH); three sites with single pairs in 2006 had two or three pairs this year (DH). Four Western Bluebirds were e. to Milnesand 15 Apr (CR). At least one Veery was singing at Chama 12- 13 May (WH, MH, DK, JR). There were sev- eral reports of unusually early Swainson’s Thrushes, including a detailed one at R.S. 22 Apr (MB) and the same or another there 29 Apr (MB), plus one at N.R.T. 26 Apr (RV) & 29 Apr QO, MB). An ad. male Aztec Thrush was described in some detail from Sapillo Cr. near its junction with the Cila R. 27 Apr (D. Doland); although spring is considered an unusual season for the species, this observa- tion followed an especially large influx into Arizona in 2006, which also produced New Mexico’s first report. THRASHERS THROUGH TANAGERS A Brown Thrasher that wintered at Santa Fe was last seen 31 Mar 0- Nelson-Moore); late were singles at R.S. 28 Apr QP), Quarai 12 May (fide HS), and N.R.T. 17 May (NP, JS). A Curve-billed Thrasher at French L. 28 Apr (ph. DC) furnished a new Colfax locale. Sprague’s Pipits wintered near Hermanas, where 3 lingered 9 Mar (LM) and 5 were pres- ent 1 Apr (DH); apparent migrants were sin- ] gles on Otero Mesa on four dates 3-25 Apr (DC); late Sprague’s were 4 in the Animas Val- ley 12 May (NM-C) and one near L. Avalon 19 May (SW). Suggestive of possible local breeding, a pair of Cedar Waxwings was en- gaged in courtship feeding at Chama 13 May (WH). Surprising was a vocal male Olive Warbler n. to the Sandia Mts. 12 May (S. Stubbe). Single Tennessee Warblers were at Camp Robledo, Doha Ana 22 Apr (MS, JZ) and N.R.T. 28 Apr (JO). Lucy’s Warblers re- turned to R.S. in force, with up to 7 singing 5- 6 May (m.ob.) and a pair gathering nest ma- terial 7 May (CL); noteworthy for Otero was one at the historic Bill McNew homesite near Orogrande 21 Apr and 16 May (CL). Single i Northern Parulas reached Bandelier N.M. 31 j May (E. DeFonso), Cochiti 29 Apr (MLW), i Sumner Dam 26 Apr (RV), N.R.T. 4-11 May j OP WWi, CL, JB), and Milnesand 14 Apr i (CR). A Chestnut-sided Warbler at N.R.T. 7 May (ph. JB) provided the only report, as did a Magnolia Warbler near Lingo 12 May (LS). A male Black-throated Gray Warbler was e. to N.R.T. 28 Apr QO). as was a female Hermit 28-29 Apr (ph. JO, MB); a male Black-throat- ed Green was there 11 May 0?)- Single Palm Warblers were near Rincon 22 Apr (MS, JZ, ph. CL) and at B.L.N.W.R. 26 Apr QH). A Black-and-white Warbler was at Mesilla 17 Apr (CL); singles were at N.R.T. on various dates 29 Apr-31 May (m.ob.). American Red- starts w. of the plains were singles at Galisteo 21 May (ph. JB) and Albuquerque 29 May (BN). A Worm-eating Warbler was w. to Clanton Cienega 12 May (D. Johnson, sketch NM-C). A Kentucky Warbler was at N.R.T. 28 Apr (ph. JO); undetailed was another w. to Heart Bar W.M.A., Catron 24 May (fide DB). A good Hooded Warbler season produced single males at Corrales 17 May (ph. TF), Sandia Mts. 27-28 May (CMB), e. of Yrisarri, Bernalillo 24 Apr (ph. M. Martin), near Es- condida 23 May (DH), N.R.T. 11-19 May (m.ob.), and Boone’s Draw 12 May QP)- A male Hepatic Tanager was n. to the Cimarron area 31 May (DC); another was singing at G.B.A. 19 & 25 May (RS), where it is a rare breeder. Far n. was a female Summer Tanager at Chama 11-13 May (DK, JR, "WH, MH); sin- gle males were in the e. plains at N.R.T. 4 May (CL) and Boone’s Draw 5 May (CL). A male apparent Flame-colored Tanager x Western Tanager hybrid was in the Animas Mts. 12 May (ph. CL), the first such report for New Mexico. 490 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS NEW MEXICO SPARROWS THROUGH FINCHES Wasting no time, Cassin’s Sparrows were singing at Carlsbad 13 Mar (SW), Las Cruces 18 Mar (DG), andjornada Range 19 Mar (MS, JZ). Noteworthy were 8 Black-chinned Spar- rows in Goat Canyon s. of Mountainair 30 May (HS). Some 47 Vesper Sparrows were on Bartlett Mesa e. of Raton Pass 22 May (CH); farther e., 2 were on Horse Mesa 16 May (CH). Good grass conditions induced Lark Bunting to remain far s. of regular nesting ar- eas, including 40 singing males and a female carrying nest material at Sevilleta N.W.R. 12 May (DH), several pairs on Otero Mesa 10-11 May, including singing males and a female carrying nest material (RM), and several pairs apparently nesting s. of Hope in May (RM). Healthy grasslands yielded singing Grasshop- per Sparrows in the e. and s. in May, includ- ing 10 at Grulla N.W.R. 31 May (DK), one near Boone’s Draw 12 May 0?), 5 near Hobbs 28 May (DH), one near R.S. 5 May QR, DK), one on W.S.M.R. sw. of Bingham 11 May (D. Burkett), and 2 on Otero Mesa 7 May (DG). Baird’s Sparrows reportedly outnumbered mi- grant Grasshopper Sparrows on Otero Mesa transects, where there were 9 Baird’s 3 Apr, 3 on 4 Apr, 5 on 23-24 Apr, 9 on 25 Apr, and 2 on 7 May (DG, RM); one Baird’s was e. of Three Rivers, n. Otero 30 Apr (L. Neely). Sin- gle gray (or slaty) Fox Sparrows were at R.G.N.C. 10 Mar (BV), Bosque 7 Mar (DC) and 15 Apr (JP), and Percha 7 Mar (GF); a reddish Fox Sparrow was at Silver City 21 Mar (ph. E. Limmer). The ad. Harris’s Spar- row that wintered at Luis Lopez was last seen 11 Apr QO), but an imm. appeared there 19 Apr OO); a bright ad. was at Cimarron 12 May (ph. J. Duke). A late Golden-crowned Sparrow was window-killed near Cliff 27 Apr (E. Wootten). At least 4 Yellow-eyed Juncos were in the Burro Mts. 30 May (MB), but none was seen in the charred Animas Mts. 12 May (CL, CRB); one strayed to Clanton Canyon, Peloncillo Mts. 27 Apr (LM). A female Northern Cardinal at N.R.T. 15- 26 May (ph. MB, NP et al.) provided a local first, and a male was singing at Santa Rosa 14 May (RV); in the sw, 3 were along Separ Rd. s. of White Signal 21 Apr (LM). A Pyrrhulox- ia was singing at Waldrop Park, e. Chaves 25 May QP)- One to 3 Rose-breasted Grosbeaks were found at 15 locales from the R.G.Y east- ward 26 Apr-31 May (m.ob.), including 2 at the McNew homesite near Orogrande 16 May (CL); single males were w. to Silver City 18 May (ph. DZ) and Animas Valley 12 May (NM-C). Unusually early was an ad. male Black-headed Grosbeak singing at Albu- querque 18 Mar (]. Haskings). Earliest Lazuli Bunting was a male at Luis Lopez 19 Apr (JO); unusual was an Indigo at Quarai 12 May (HS); an early Varied was in Walnut Canyon, Eddy 4 May (BE). A female Painted Bunting was n. to R.G.N.C. 14 May (b., pb. MM); a male was singing n. to Sumner Dam 17 May (MB, NP). An early Dickcissel was singing near Maxwell 1 May (DC); others were sin- gles at N.R.T. 25 May OR JO) and Grulla N.W.R. 31 May (DK). Three Eastern Mead- owlarks were singing at 2590 m near Chama 12 May (DK, JR). Common Crackles in the nw. were 2 at Aztec 30 Apr (TR) and 5 at Farmington 29 May (TR). Bronzed Cowbirds continued to occur n. of historic range, in- cluding up to 3 in ne. Albuquerque 22-30 May (DE-B, J. Stuart, BV, MB, ph. JO), 2 at Carrizozo 28 May QO), up to 3 at B.L.N.W.R. 10-12 May QH). ^nd singles at Roswell 10 May OP) and Grulla N.W.R. 31 May (DK). Orchard Orioles n. of expected were single ad. males at San Antonio 12 May (ph. A. Kerr) and Bosque 25 May (C. Lee), a young male at Maxwell 26 May (ph. DC) and an ad. male there 27 May (ph. DC), and single ad. males at N.R.T. 11 May OP) and Ute L. 27 Apr (ph. DC); an apparent female was at Farmington 16 May (TR). Early Hooded Orioles were sin- gles at Silver City 19 (fide DB) & 26-28 Mar (ph. D. Friedrick), Las Cruces 29 Mar (L. Schulte), and Virden 30 Mar OP)- Last of the Sandia Crest rosy-finches were 25, mainly Blacks, 18 Mar (N. Cox). A female Purple Finch was at a Madrid feeder 28-29 Apr (LS). Initialed observers: Jonathan Batkin, Matt Baumann, David Beatty, Charles R. Britt, Ce- lestyn M. Brozek, David Cleary, Celia Cook, Alan Craig, Robert Doster, Devin Eby-Bosler, Trevor Fetz, Bernard Foy, Gary Froehlich, Gail Garber, David Griffin, David Hawksworth, Marilyn Howe, William Howe, Jeff Howland, Charles Hundertmark, David Krueper, Eugene Lewis, Carl Lundblad, Mar- tin D. MacRoberts, Larry Malone, Michael Means, David Mehlman, Raymond Meyer, Narca Moore-Craig, Bruce Neville, Jerry Old- enettel, John Parmeter, Nicholas Pederson, Tim Reeves, Christopher Rustay Janet Ruth, Lawry Sager, Hart Schwarz, Marcy Scott, John Shipman, Roland Shook, Dale Stahlecker, Raymond VanBuskirk, Brad Vaughn, Mark L. Watson, Richard Webster, Mara E. Weisen- berger, Steve West, William West, S. O. Williams, William Wittman, Hope Wood- ward, James Zabriskie, Dale Zimmerman. © Sartor 0. Williams III Southwest Natural History Institute 1819 Meadowview Drive NW Albuquerque, New Mexico 87104-2511 (sunbittern@earthlink.net) iii@i»nii!ini A Birder’S Guide te Flerida by Bill Pranty, published 2005; 672 pages; paper{lay-flat) Item #175 ABA Member Price: $20.76 (List $25.95) North American birders savor Florida as the place to see species not found elsewhere in the US or Canada, such as Snail Kite, Short-tailed Hawk, Black-hooded Parakeet, Mangrove Cuckoo, Black- whiskered Vireo, or Florida Scrub-Jay. These are but a few of the Florida spe- cialties that make a trip to the Sunshine State such an exciting adventure for birders. More than 330 birding sites are described, and more than 400 species accounts are now included. A Birder’S Buide to MiclHgan by Allen Chartier and Jerry Ziarno, published 2004; 672 pages; paper(lay-flat) Item #288 ABA Member A Birder'S Guide to Southeastern Arizona by Richard Cachor Taylor, revised 2005; 384 pages; paper (lay-flat) Item #102 ABA Member Price: $19.96 (List $24.95) iQ Call to Order American Birding’ 800/634-7736 VOIUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 491 Arizona Mark M. Stevenson (Non-passerines) Gary H. Rosenberg (Passerines) The weather bywords for the season were overly familiar: dry and warm, with continuing drought. Stable weath- er provided good conditions for migration, and bird concentrations were mostly unre- markable. Highlights included nesting Short- tailed Hawk and Long-eared Owls. Abbreviations: A.B.C. (Arizona Bird Commit- tee), B.T.A. (Boyce Thompson Arboretum), G.W.R. (Gilbert Water Ranch), H.R.R (Has- sayampa R. Preserve), L.C.R.V. (lower Col- orado R. valley), N.I.R. (Navajo Indian Reser- vation), P.L.S.P. (Patagonia L. State Park), S.PR. (San Pedro R.), Whitewater (Whitewa- ter Draw WA.). WHISTLING-DUCKS THROUGH TERNS The Fulvous Whistling-Duck in Scottsdale was reported through 12 May OW, RW), where it may be resident. A Ross’s Goose in Scottsdale through the season (m.ob.) fur- nished the first May record for Maricopa (fide jW). A Mexican Duck reported from G.W.R. 13 Apr (MM) continued a recent trend of re- ports from n. of the traditional range of this subspecies. Migrant Common Loons away from the L.C.R.V. were 3 on L. Pleasant 5-7 Apr (A. Jontz, fide TC), one on Black Mesa 13 Apr (CL), and another on L. Pleasant 19 Apr QY). Seventy Eared Grebes at Palo Verde 12 May (TC) was a large number away from the Colorado R. Clark’s Grebe is a rare migrant away from large lakes; singles were at P.L.S.P 24 Apr-14 May (EW, SH) and Palo Verde 12 May (TC). At Willow L., 475 American White Pelicans 3 Apr (K. Euler, CST) was a very large flock for Yavapai, where they are casual transients. A Brown Pelican strayed to P.L.S.P. 4-5 May (MB, ph. K. Smith); in Arizona, this species is primarily a summer and fall wan- derer from the Sea of Cortez. Neotropic Cor- morant numbers peaked at 25 at RL.S.R 29 Apr (SH), 10 at Arizona City 1 May (SH), and 98 at G.W.R. 6 May (MMo). Larger numbers, were along the Gila R. in Phoenix (TC et al.). Out of place were one at Tucson 4-24 Mar Q- Higgins) and one at Roper L. 28 Apr (Arizona Field Ornithologists). A Black Vulture seen (but not documented) over Cottonwood 7 Apr was well n. of the species’ range (T. R. Jones, fide TC). A Turkey Vulture at Vermilion Cliffs 16 Mar (TC) was quite early for far n. Arizona. White-tailed Kites were widely reported again. Breeding behavior was observed at two sites along the upper S.PR. (EW, MK) and at Buenos Aires N.W.R. (M. Hunnicut). The first Mississippi Kite returned to St. David on the early date of 21 Apr (MM). Bald Eagles were nesting again in Canyon del Muerto 19 Mar (fide C. Goetze) after hrst being found there last year. Late Northern Harriers at four loca- tions into May in se. Arizona raised the possi- bility of nesting (EW, MM, DS, L. Liese). Sharp-shinned Hawks at Arlington and Wick- enburg 12 May (TC, N. London et al.) were the first May reports for Maricopa. A Com- mon Black-Hawk high in the Santa Catalina Mts. at Rose Canyon L. 3 May (MA) followed last year’s documented report at this unusual location. One of the resident Red-shouldered Hawks at H.R.P was inadvertently netted and then banded 4 Mar (fide TC). Two were seen nearby on 10 Mar (TC). Reports of Broad- winged Hawks were numerous this spring: on the early date of 24-26 Mar on the upper S.PR. (P. Walsh, R. Romea, W. Wallraven), at Page Springs 14 Apr (KR, ph. M. VandeWa- ter), along the Verde R. at Rio Verde Ranch 19 (tTM) & 20 Apr (TM), at B.T.A. 23 Apr (TCST), another at Page Springs 29 Apr (ph. N. Gaines), and one near Flagstaff 2 May (tP. Kline). Gray Hawk was locally extirpated as a nesting species in ne. Tucson in the 1960s. A pair there carrying sticks 16 Apr+ (P. Collins et al.) suggested their return. A pair was found nesting in oaks in lower Ramsey Canyon 10 May-t M- Pretti), an atypical location. Several Short-tailed Hawks were re- ported again in the Chiricahua Mts. in May (tG. Smith, P. Abbot), but the exciting news was the discovery of a nest there 25 May (ph. H. & N. Snyder), the details of which will be published elsewhere. Juveniles joining ads. in the Chiricahuas in recent years had been the sole previous evidence of nesting in the state. A Zone-tailed Hawk in Yuma 10-11 Mar (D. Taylor, fide HD) may have wintered locally. A Harlan’s Hawk was in Green Valley 11 Mar (ph. D. Dionne). A few Crested Caracaras continued in the Santa Cruz Flats through at least mid-May (DJ et al.), where they are not known to summer. Wandering caracaras turned up out of range again, with singles at Hereford 24 Apr-4 May (S. Williamson, T. Wood) and near Rio Rico 12 May (L. Liese). A Black-bellied Plover at Rimmy Jim Tank 10-25 Apr (B. Gatlin, CL) was early for n. Ari- zona. An American Golden-Plover at White- water 6-9 May QH, DB, REW) was a casual spring migrant. Snowy Plover is a rare nester in Arizona; four pairs were found nesting near Gila Bend 25 May (BG, TC), where they have nested before. Whimbrel is a casual migrant away from the L.C.R.V; 2 were near Palo Verde 22 Apr (BG), and one was at Many Farms L. 19 May (BJ, ph. CB). Marbled God- wits were more widely reported away from the Colorado R. One was very early at Prescott 4 Mar (teST, S. & S. Burk), and another made a pass around P.L.S.P on the early date of 28 Mar (D. Porter). Flocks of 60+ godwits at Wil- low L. on 10 Apr (B. Thomen, S. & S. Burk) and 37 at Watson L. 24 Apr (S. & S. Burk) were notable away from the Colorado R. The only Sanderling reported was at Many Farms L. 19 May (CB, BJ). A Pectoral Sandpiper at Rimmy Jim Tank 24 Apr (B. Gatlin, CL) was only the 2nd spring record for the N.I.R., while one at Willcox on 12 May was casual there 0- Coons). The only Dunlin reported was at Willcox 24-28 Apr (DB). Casual in Ari- zona, a Laughing Gull was at P.L.S.P. 14 May (ph. SH). A Heermann’s Gull at Arivaca L. 3 May (tj. Levy) followed their pattern of spo- radic occurrence. At L. Havasu City, a Black- legged Kittiwake was a good find 25-31 Mar 0- Richardson, ph. A. Clare, B. Sutton); this is the first spring record for the L.C.R.V and only the 7th statewide since 1990. Five Least Terns were reported, all but one in se. Ari- zona, fewer than in recent springs. A Black Tern was two weeks early at Green Valley 16- 17 Apr (B. Postmus, ph. C. Postmus). Seven others were reported statewide. A Common Tern, casual in spring, was at Willcox 28 Apr (R. Eastman). Forster’s Terns were well repre- sented, with 14 statewide. DOVES THROUGH SAPSUCKERS Ruddy Ground-Dove reports have dropped off. One was at RL.S.R 4 May (SH). After a winter in which they were more numerous than usual, some Long-eared Owls remained to nest in se. Arizona, with reports from the San Rafael Valley 16 Apr (M. Coker), Cave Creek near Portal 20 Apr (P. D. Hulce), Muleshoe Ranch 25 May (D. & B. Williams), and Cascabel 30 May (MA). A Northern Saw- 492 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS ARIZONA whet Owl was in the lowlands at B.T.A. 4 Mar (ph. J. Holloway); one was heard in Hualapai Mountain Park 27 Apr (L. Norris, S. Ganley), where they are seldom reported. Buff-collared Nightjars were heard again at Oro Blanco Mine near California Gulch 27 Apr+ (S. Hampton et ah), where they have been regu- lar since 2002. A flock of 15-20 White-throat- ed Swifts at Big Canyon on the Little Col- orado R. were the earliest ever on the N.I.R. by a week (CL). In Tucson, a Broad-billed Hummingbird was building a nest on the early date of 6 Mar (MMS, MP); one nesting in Por- tal 28 Apr was locally rare (D. Jasper). A White-eared Hum- mingbird returned to Miller Canyon in the Huachuca Mts. 9 May+ (P. Campbell, T. Beatty). Still casual, a Berylline Hum- mingbird was in Ramsey Canyon 27 May+ (R. Behr- stock); for the first time in years, no Berylline-derived hy- brids were reported. Three mi- grant or overshooting Violet- crowned Hummingbirds were in the Tucson area 14 Mar-3 Apr (D. Gooding, J. Bock, B. Pollock), and another was in Green Valley 5-9 Apr (B. Massey). A peculiar humming- bird, apparently a hybrid, with the features of a male Blue- throated but sporting a rose-col- ored throat was seen at two lo- cations on Mt. Lemmon (B. Bickel, MMS, MP). A similar bird was reported there in 1997 (D. Smyth). Lucifer Humming- birds returned to eastside Huachuca Mt. canyons starting 18 Mar (T. Beatty). Away from there (and from feeders), a female was found near Patagonia 21 Apr (DS), and another was in Guadalupe Canyon in May (N. Moore-Craig). A Broad-tailed Humming- bird building a nest on Mt. Ord 8 Apr was two to three weeks earlier than dates from the breeding bird atlas (TC). Elegant Trogons are seldom seen away from the mid-elevation canyons of se. Ari- zona. A migrant was along the upper S.P.R. 4 May (MM), while a wandering male flying over a ridge on Mt. Ord 26 May furnished a 2nd record for Maricopa and likely the first for Gila (TC). A Belted Kingfisher carrying fish to a burrow at Rio Salado, Phoenix 15 Apr (TG) suggested a rare lowland nesting at- tempt; kingfishers were seen in the area through 12 May (fideTCX Single Green King- Canyon, and W. Turkey Creek during Apr and May suggest that a small population remains (and is possibly growing) in the Chiricahua Mts. An Eastern Phoebe reported along Cienega Cr. 20-27 Mar (MA) may have win- tered locally, as there are very few true spring migrants known from the state. A calling Dusky-capped Flycatcher at P.L.S.P. 18 Mar (C. Cathers) was very early for a spring mi- grant. A pair of Sulphur-bellied Flycatchers returned for the 2nd year to Aspen Springs in the Sierra Prieta Mts. 28 May-i- (CST); this species is casual as a summer visitor as far n. as the Mogollon Rim. Urban Tucson is generally low in elevation for breeding Cassin’s Kingbirds; a pair found nesting at Fort Low- ell Park 27 May+ (DS, MMS, MP) was of interest. Thick- billed Kingbirds appeared a bit more numerous and wide- spread than usual: singles were found at extralimital areas such as at the H.R.P. (for the 5th year) 3 May+ (C. Miller), in Huachuca Canyon 12-16 May (EW), and at Picacho Res. 27 May (DJ), as well as at several locations that don’t support this species consistently year to year. More significant though, was one found at Wenima W.A. near Springerville 28 May (ph. GHR, KR), establishing a first record for Apache and for n. Arizona. The only Scissor-tailed Flycatcher reported was one at Camp Verde 11 May (P Ollig). No Rose-throated Becards were reported this spring. Although not known to breed in the Santa Catalina Mts., individual Gray Vireos were re- ported at Pima Canyon 23-26 Mar (P Kline) and from Molino Basin 23 Apr (C. Cathers); we prefer that better documentation be pro- vided for “migrant” records of this species in Arizona given the paucity of extralimital records — and the well-known pitfalls of dis- tinguishing Gray Vireo from Plumbeous Vireo. A pair of Warbling Vireos on territory at Slate Cr. Divide 16 May QW, RWi) suggest- ed local nesting; this species has only been found nesting in Maricopa once previously, at this location in 1999. Casual in the state, and still found much less frequently than in the 1970s and 1980s, Red-eyed Vireos were re- ported from the Patagonia Roadside Rest 17 May (tG. Smith, tP Abbot), and Paloma Ranch 25 May (tBG, TC). fishers were seen in Mar along the upper S.RR. near Fairbank and Hwy. 90 (MA, B. Burns, M. Criley), where they are expected, but one found dead in S. Fork Cave Cr. Canyon 30 Mar (T. Wood) was only the 2nd ever for the Chiricahua Mts. A Lewis’s Wood- pecker was seen 28 Apr near Duncan (Ari- zona Field Ornithologists), where it had ap- parently wintered. Another Lewis’s lingered This Thick-billed Kingbird at Wenima Wildlife Area outside of Springerville 2S May 2007 represented a first record for northern Arizona. Photograph by Gary H. Rosenberg. late until 12 May in Paradise 0- Lewis). A Williamson’s Sapsucker was a surprise in the lowlands at Ajo 13 Mar 0- Higgins), a Yellow- bellied Sapsucker was casual in Flagstaff 19 Mar (ph. N. Gaines), and a Red-naped Sap- sucker was late in Scottsdale 12 May Q- Bart- ley). A Red-naped Sapsucker x Yellow-bellied Sapsucker hybrid near Prescott 9-15 Mar (tCST) was an unusual find. FLYCATCHERS THROUGH PIPITS A Greater Pewee at Slate Cr. Divide 12-15 May (KR, CR) was n. of normal breeding ar- eas in Arizona, but not unprecedented for this location. A Buff-breasted Flycatcher at the normal breeding area of Sawmill Canyon 13 Mar (ph. SH) established an early arrival date for se. Arizona. Scattered reports of this species from Cave Creek Canyon, Pinery VOlUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 493 ARIZONA Five Mexican Jays at Slate Cr. Divide 12 May (KR, CR) were of note, as this species only occurs irregularly (and apparently is not known to breed) at higher elevations in Mari- copa. Two Clark’s Nutcrackers in the Chiric- ahua Mts. near Barfoot Park 27-31 May (A. Boyce et al., TM), and one near Rustler Park 31 May (REW) were late visitors this far s. in Arizona; this species is an irregular winter vis- itor to the mountains of s. Arizona. Two Barn Swallows at P.L.S.P 1 Mar (SH) were very ear- ly for spring arrivals in s. Arizona. Two Barn Swallow nests found at Rio Salado, Phoenix 12 May (fitle T. Gatz, jW) were of note, as this species had only been found breeding in Maricopa twice previously. A few Marsh Wrens lingered later than usual into the spring, with the latest being one along Ciene- ga Cr. 17 May (MA). Pairs of Black-capped Gnatcatchers continued at PL.S.P and along Proctor Rd. below Madera Canyon; nests were located at both locations. Young were observed at PL.S.P 26 Apr (SH), and at Proc- tor Rd. by 11 May (C. Charlesworth, m.ob.). The only “new” Black-capped location was at Grosvenor Hills, Santa Cruz, where a male was reported 28 May (C. Smith, S. Carnahan). The 2 Rufous-backed Robins at Jake’s Cor- ner in the winter season were last reported 10 Mar (m.ob); another was located at the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix 22-23 Apr (G. Rice, S. Barnes, tD. Herron, ph. C. Camp- bell). There have been few Arizona reports during the spring of individuals not known to have wintered locally. Certainly casual during the spring, a Varied Thrush was at Yuma 26 Apr (C. Hurlock, ph. J. Bundy, fide HD). A Gray Catbird, casual in spring away from breeding areas in the White Mts., was at Round Valley near Portal 24 May (REW). The Brown Thrasher wintering at the B.T.A. was last reported 28 Apr (CST). Elsewhere, one was thought to have wintered locally at San Bernardino N.W.R., seen only 11 Mar-1 Apr (REW), and one was in Portal 3-4 May (L. & T. Gates). A lingering American Pipit was at Willcox 27 May (D. & B. Williams), where casual after mid-May. WARBLERS THROUGH FINCHES Single Tennessee Warblers, casual in spring, were at Rio Salado, Phoenix 3 Mar-13 Apr (TG, T. Brodner), at G.W.R. 29 Apr-lMay (tMM; v.r. PD), and at San Bernardino N.W.R. 7 May (tREW); it is still a review species for the A.B.C. Nine Northern Pandas, a greater- than-usual number for spring, were located in s. Arizona 28 Apr-31 May. Outstanding was a breeding-plumaged Chestnut-sided Warbler at Portal 11 May (T. Godfrey, DB); most records in the state have been of fall and win- ter birds. A male Black-throated Blue Warbler was at Sweetwater 14 Apr (R. Payne). An ap- parent Yellow-rumped Warbler x Grace’s War- bler hybrid was reported for the 2nd consec- utive year at Aspen Springs, Sierra Prieta Mts. 29 May (tCST). Out-of-place Grace’s War- blers were reported along the upper S.PR. 11 Apr (MM), at Morgan City Wash 21 Apr (TC), and at San Bernardino N.W.R. 28 Apr (RAR, REW); this species is casual during spring at lowland locations. The wintering Pine Warbler in the Mule Mts. was last re- ported 18 Apr (1. Eraser, D. Mansour). Seven Black-and-white Warblers and 3 American Redstarts were reported this spring, about av- erage. The only Prothonotary Warbler report- ed was at Cameron 18 May (ph. CBa). More unusual in spring, single Worm-eating War- blers were well documented at Southwest Re- search Station, Cave Cr. Canyon 16-28 Apr (S. &J. James; ph. T. Stawarezyk and at Para- dise 26 Apr (ph. J. Lewis). Other Worm-eat- ings reported included one singing in Madera Canyon 16 May (D. Touret) and one at Seven Springs 18 May (TC). Individual Ovenbirds were reported at Tucson 23 Apr Q- Douglas), singing near Portal 24 Apr (G. Owings), and at Cameron 15-29 May (CL, B. Gatlin et al.). Kentucky Warbler is always a hne bird to find in Arizona, although annual in very small numbers in spring; one was in Cave Cr. Canyon 4 May (RAR, REW), while another was at Granite Cr. near Prescott 21-22 May (N. McMahon et al.; ph. N. Silacci). Hooded Warbler also appears to be a rare but regular late spring visitor, this year reported at Tempe 11 May (M. Scott), Las Cienegas National Conservation Area 14 May (KK), Sabino Canyon 21-22 May (DS, J. Hecimovich), Cameron 22-24 May (CL), and Eagar 23 May (DR, GC). Red-faced Warbler continues to be a scarce summer resident at high elevations in Maricopa at locations such as Mt. Ord and Slate Cr. Divide, with reports at both sites this spring (E. Hough, JW, RW). Casual in the lowlands, Red-faceds were seen along the Gila R., Greenlee 28 Apr (Arizona Eield Ornitholo- gists, fide TC) and along the Agua Fria R., Maricopa 7 May (D. Wall et al.). Migrant Painted Redstarts were found in greater-than- usual numbers in the lowlands this spring. The male Flame-colored Tanager returned for another year to Madera Canyon, hrst re- ported 6 Apr (ph. M. Brooks, ph. GHR) and apparently mated with a Western Tanager. Multiple Botteri’s Sparrows were detected earlier than usual this spring, with the earli- est reports including singing birds at Arivaca 10 Apr (MA) and in lower Carr Canyon 10 Apr (SH). Clay-colored Sparrows, casual in spring but prone to irruptions, were at Tuc- son 8 Mar (MP, MMS), Rio Salado, Phoenix 15-16 Apr (TG), at San Bernardino N.W.R. 28 Apr (continuing from winter) (RAR, REW), at Whitewater 30 Apr (SH), and continuing along the upper S. P.R. through 25 Apr (MM). Harris’s Sparrow continues to be rare to casu- al in s. Arizona, with one near Portal 24-30 Apr (T. Morgan et al.) and the G.W.R. bird continuing from winter until 25 Apr (m.ob.). The Lapland Longspur found near Elgin dur- ing the winter was last reported 16 Mar (EW). No fewer than 26 Rose-breasted Gros- beaks were found between late Apr and mid- May! A Blue Grosbeak near Avondale 20 Apr (TC) was nearly two weeks early for this Maricopa location. A singing Bobolink was reported at White- water 25 May (DB); this species is rare to ca- sual anywhere in the state in spring. An Or- chard Oriole was in a nw. Tucson yard 26 Mar (ph. C. Sams), where it likely wintered local- ly. The Streak-backed Oriole that wintered at G.W.R. was again reported 8 & 20 Apr (P. Moulton). Male Baltimore Orioles, casual in the state, were documented at San Bernardino N.W.R. 17 May (ph. REW) and in Yuma 19 May (ph. HD). After what was a rather lack- luster flight year for Lawrence’s Goldhnch in se. Arizona during the winter of 2006-2007, individuals appeared at odd locations during the spring, including one along the Gila R. near Buckeye 14 Mar (TC), one in Ash Canyon 1 May (RB), and one in Willcox 7 May (EW). A singing male American Goldfinch was rather late in Springerville 28 May (GHR, KR); this species is not known to breed in Arizona. Contributors (subregional compilers in bold- face): Moez Ali, Arizona Eield Ornithologists, Charles Babbitt, Dave Beaudette, Robert Behr- stock, Matt Brown, Troy Corman, Gary Cran- dall, Henry Detwiler, Pierre Deviche, Tom Gaskill, Bill Grossi, Stuart Healy, John Hirth, Doug Jenness, Bud Johnson, Keith Kamper (Tucson RBA), Melody Kehl, Chuck LaRue, Tom Magarian, Michael Marsden, Michael Moore (MMo), Molly Pollock, Cindy Radamaker, Kurt Radamaker, Gary H. Rosen- berg, Rose Ann Rowlett, Dave Stejskal, Mark M Stevenson, Carl S. Tomoff (Prescott), Richard E. Webster, Erika Wilson, Janet Witzeman (Maricopa), Robert Witzeman, John Yerger. Mark M. Stevenson (Non-passerines) 4201 East Monte Vista Drive, #1207 Tucson, Arizona 85712-5554, (drbrdr@att.net) Gary H. Rosenberg (Passerines) P.O. Box 91856, Tucson, Arizona 85752-1856 (ghrosenberg@comcast.net) 494 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS Alaska \. CHUKCHI SEA BEAUFORT SEA PrudhoeBay ' v^Kotzebue Brooks Range BERING SEA Anu I. /-Shemya I. ^ ^Rnleiirl ThedeTobish It was an average spring season that other- wise included a mix of prolonged dry pe- riods, below-average temperatures, and fewer low-pressure systems moving eastward into the northern Gulf of Alaska. Arrival dates for most areas and most groups were close to long-term averages, with perhaps fewer new record-early arrival dates than in most recent years. Coverage at the Region’s periphery was again excellent and began ear- ly, which is becoming standard now for spring migration and which is contributing nicely to the arrival data at these sites. Weather patterns did little to generate any notable surges of Palearctic taxa in the Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands, although easterly winds probably contributed to a decent push of Alaska’s mainland birds into the Bering Sea. Early June conditions did produce a brief early June passerine wave into the western Aleutians. WATERFOWL THROUGH PETRELS Two Bean Geese at St. Paul I. 15-17 May and 30 May-1 Jun (St. Paul Tour) and a single at Shemya I. 23 May (MS) were the season’s only reports. Wood Ducks, not long ago considered accidental in Alaska, continue to show up in Southeast, showing this spring at Ketchikan, with a drake in salt water 16 Apr (SCH, ph. AWP) and a pair inland on the Unuk R. 20 Apr (AWP). As is typical of early spring, Eurasian Wigeon reports surfaced across the Region, most notable of which was a total of 6 at Gustavus 6 Apr (ND). A 3rd Aleutian record of Spot-billed Duck turned up 28 May+ at Adak (ph. JP), where Region’s first ever was documented in the 1970s. Now an- nual in the Southeast in early spring. Cinna- mon Teal showed up at two new sites, tvith a drake at Ketchikan 15 May (ph. SCH), a local first record, plus another single n. at Gustavus 26 Apr (ND) that was followed by 3 there 1 May and then one on 6 & 23 May (BP, ND). Three Smews in the Bering Sea at St. Paul I. 12-21 May and then one 21-23 May (St. Paul Tour) were unusually late and e. of typical ar- eas of occurrence, while up to 6 around Shemya 24 Apr-21 May (MTS, ph. RT) were more standard. Arctic Loons were rea- sonably represented, with a single at Attu 22 May (DWS), at least 3 around Shemya 15 Apr-i- (MTS), and a season peak of 12 from Gambell 5 Jun (Wings, Inc.). Most interesting was an estimate of 700+ Pacific Loons staging in Yakutat Bay 17 May (BC). With recent sightings of large numbers stag- ing inshore in the e. and ne. quadrants of the n. Gulf of Alaska (from Yakutat Bay, upper Lynn Canal, and Portland Canal), it appears that Pacific Loons stage and then disperse from here to points n. and e., along the coast and into the Interior. More unusual in spring than in fall was a single Pied-billed Grebe at Alaganik Slough, e. of Cordova 21 Apr (AL), where there are few reports. Two Horned Grebes ventured northward and offshore to Gambell 1 Jun (DF et al.), where they are ca- sual. An early-season cruise across the Aleu- tians from Russia produced a fine cross-sec- tion of spring Mottled Petrel movements into the Region. Three hundred and then 125 birds were counted on 11 May at points on both sides of the International Dateline (BC). HAWKS THROUGH ALODS A White-tailed Eagle was nicely documented from Gambell 2 Jun (ph. DP, Wilderness Bird Tours; Wings, Inc.). There have been a few brief sightings of eagles over Gambell, in- cluding reports of White-tailed Eagle, Steller’s Sea-Eagle, and Bald Eagle. This year’s Gun- sight Mt. hawkwatch produced exceptional totals of 584 dark-morph and 63 light-morph Harlan’s Hawks (CF, PF et al). The spring to- tal of only 14 Red-tailed Hawks there repre- sented what must be a representative indica- tor of the e. Interior’s ratio of these two taxa. Two Sandhill Cranes on Prince of Wales 1. 1 Apr OL) were very early in the only offshore area of Southeast where they are probably breeding. Given the spotty nature of Black-bellied Plover landfall patterns during spring pas- sage, some 400+ near Gustavus 2 May (BP) was an exceptional concentration, especially for Southeast. A single Pacific Golden-Plover at Kodiak 11 Apr QV) was the season’s first landfall within the species’ south-to-north oceanic migration corridor. Shorebird high- lights were otherwise spotty and focused at Gambell, Shemya, or in the Interior, includ- ing: a peak of 5 Common Ringed Plovers at Gambell 23 May (PEL); a nice group of 5 Terek Sandpipers at Shemya 30 May (MTS) and a single e. at Adak 30-31 May (ph. JP); a rare Bering Sea Lesser Yellowlegs also at Gambell 23 May (PEL); up to 3 hudsonicus Whimbrels at Gambell 27-30 May (Wings, Inc.); single Great Knots, still not annual in the Region, on St. Paul 1. 23-26 May (St. Paul Tour) and at Gambell 1-3 Jun (DF, Wings, Inc.); 4 Sanderlings at Fairbanks 29 May (ABO); and up to 4 Short-billed Dowitchers, casual in the Interior, at Fairbanks 22-26 May (PM). An at-sea Temminck’s Stint was de- scribed from shipboard observers n. of Attu 12 May (BC), while another was casual and late at Gambell 7 Jun (DF Wings, Inc.). An- other female Wilson’s Phalarope was docu- mented in Juneau 16 May (PS), where this probably annual migrant is most often locat- ed in spring. As is typical for the spring season, gull re- ports were an interesting mix of late winter finds and regular migrants from standard ar- eas of concentration. Kodiak observers locat- ed 3 alternate-plumaged Franklin’s Gulls around the e. side of the island, from 23 Apr-4 May, 10 May, and 27-31 May (ph. RAM, JBA); fall records are considerably more regular. A Black-headed Gull was de- scribed from Gambell 31 May (Victor Emanuel Nature Tours), where the species is not regular, as was the season’s only Kam- chatka Mew Gull 2-5 Jun (Wings, Inc.). The Aleutians’ earliest Black-tailed Gull was an ad. on the Shemya beaches 22 Apr (MTS, ph. RT), and another ad. was documented to the w. at Attu 18 May (ph. DWS). These repre- sent about the 7th and 8th records from the Aleutians. The northward spring push of Cal- ifornia Gulls commenced on time in Ketchikan, 24 Mar, with a season high of 25 on 11 May (AWP, SCH). The remaining Ketchikan area’s Kumlien’s Iceland Gull was last seen 20 Mar (AWP, SCH); another was documented from Kodiak 11 May (ph. RAM), the 2nd such documented record there. As is typical. Slaty-backed Gull reports were con- centrated from St. Paul I., the greater Nome area, and at Gambell, with unremarkable numbers. Two Slaty-backeds were more note- worthy with the late winter gull hordes around Kenai 1 Apr (TB, fide TE), which also included a nice spring tally of 5 Glaucous Gulls the same day. A Marbled Murrelet on Tern L. 28 May (AL) in the Kenai Mts. some 52 km from the nearest saltwater habitat was unusual but within the species’ known coastal rainforest nesting habitat. VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 495 ALASKA Found and photographed on 28 May 2007 (here) at Clam Lagoon, Adak Island, Alaska, this Spot-billed Duck remained through 31 May. At least two other Spot-billed Ducks in Alaska stayed for at least a year. Photograph by Frank Haas. OWLS THROUGH PIPITS Spring Western Screech-Owls are always no- table away from the few standard presumed breeding sites (Sitka, Ketchikan, Juneau), so a single near the periphery at Gustavus 18-26 Apr (ND) was a great find. A Northern Pygmy-Owl from the greater Ketchikan areas White R. 31 May (AWP) and about 6 around Gustavus 4 Mar-25 May (ND) were the sea- sons most significant reports. A Boreal Owl corpse located on the Southeast Mainland at the Unuk R. mouth 26 Mar (GW, ph. AWP) is considered extralimital, as we have few docu- mented Southeast records. Following last years first-ever Kodiak area record, 3 North- ern Saw-whet Owls were found there 24-25 Mar (RAM). An Eastern Phoebe, reasonably well described from tidal flats at Haines 11 May (tAD), becomes the earliest of Alaska’s now five records, which come mostly from jun. This species gets close to the Region at similar latitudes on the Alberta-British Co- lumbia border. A handsome ad. Brown Shrike photographed at Shemya 6 Jun (ph. MTS, RT) becomes only the 2nd from spring and 3rd overall in the Aleutians. Mild conditions seemingly drew Tree Swal- lows into the Region on the early side, high- lighted by 14 in Ketchikan 9 Apr (AWP, SCH), close to that locale’s earliest ever. A single Tree Swallow was off course at sea at Shemya 3 Jun (MTS, RT). Although Tree Swallows are inter- mittent breeders at Unimak I. and occasional elsewhere in the e. Aleutians, there are only nine previous spring reports from the cen. and w. islands. A single Violet-green Swallow in Ketchikan 9 Apr (AWP, SCH) likely set a new record early arrival date for Alaska. Ex- tralimital Barn Swallows made news early, in- cluding singles at Kodiak 27 May (ph. RAM), Fairbanks 13 May (LD, NH), where casual, and a pale-bellied bird offshore at Gambell 7 Jun (Wilderness Bird Tours). The season’s only Taiga Flycatchers were 2 at Shemya 4-7 Jun (MTS, ph. RT) near the late end of known arrival dates. Bluethroats crossing the Bering Strait seemed early at Gambell, with a single there 22 May followed by 5 the following day (Wings, Inc.); their breeding habitats inland on the Seward Pen. were likely still under snow. Of the usual handful of Mountain Bluebird reports, a single male near Fair- banks at Murphy Dome 29 Apr (A.B.O.) was most interesting at the nw. edge of the species’ Interior range. Extremely rare off- shore in the Bering Sea was a Swainson’s Thrush at Gambell 31 May (DF, Wings, Inc.), where there were two prior spring observa- tions. Only one Eyebrowed Thrush was lo- cated this season, at Shemya a little early on 10 May (MTS, RT ph.). The Mainland’s first and the spring’s only Dusky Thrush was de- scribed in the Askinuk Mts. in sw. Alaska 30 May (tLD). WAXWINGS THROUGH FINCHES A lone Bohemian Waxwing that had wintered somewhere in the s. end of the Region became the latest ever for Ketchikan 1 May (AWP, SCH). Most Bohemians depart winter haunts in Southeast by late Mar. The Anchorage area’s band of Cedar Waxwings, variously present and dispersed around the lowlands since the previous Aug, peaked in late winter at approximately 21 birds through late Mar (TT). Audubon’s Warblers were early, and n. of the norm, at Gustavus, including singles 20 J & 26 Apr and 6 May (ND, BP, PV); this sub- 1 species is typically reported with regularity from s. Southeast mainland sites (Hyder) or from the Ketchikan area. A male Western n Tanager at Gustavus 27 May should be con- sidered extralimital and was w. of the closest | known breeding areas in Skagway and Haines. An overshoot Sooty Fox Sparrow at Gambell 27 May (Wilderness Bird Tours) was > casual on St. Lawrence I., where most spring birds are Interior zahoria forms. Golden- crowned Sparrows showed offshore at quite a few sites, highlighted by 3 on a ship some 48 km s. of the Alaska Pen. 14 May (BC), one on St. Paul I. 30 May (St. Paul Tour), and singles from Gambell 28 May and 1-2 Jun (Wings, Inc.). A casual visitor from Southeast, a male Brewer’s Blackbird was photographed n. of the regular sites at Gustavus 18 Apr (ph. ND), where a female was first noted last year. In- cluded with the early Jun push of Palearctic passerines in the w. Aleutians was a female- plumaged Common Rosefinch at Shemya 8 Jun (MTS, RT). It was unusual that the sea- son’s only Hawfinch report came from well to the n. at Gambell, where one hung around 26 May-1 Jun (DF et al.). There are few St. Lawrence I. records. Contributors and observers; Alaska B.O. (A.B.O.; N. DeWitt et al), B. Alger, J. B. Allen, R. Armstrong, G. Baluss, B. Benter, S. Berns, G. V Byrd, E. Clarke, B. Cooper, L. Craig, J. Dearborn, D. E Delap, A. DeMartini, L. DeCi- cco, B. Dittrick, W. E. Donaldson, N. Drumheller, L. Edfelt, P. Eldridge, D. Erikson, T. Evans, D. Farbotnik, P Fritz, C. Fritz, D. D. Gibson, R. E. Gill, M. Goff, R. J. Gordon, T. L. Goucher, N. Haydukovich, K. Hart, S. C. Heinl, P.& T. Hunt, H. Irrigoo, W. Keys, J. E Koerner, G. Koonooka, A. Lang, P E. Lehman, H. Lentfer, J. Levison, C. Maack, M. & R. A. Macintosh, D. MacPhail, J. Mason, J. P Met- zler, N. Mollett, L. J. Oakley, B. Paige, W. Pawuk, S. Peterson, A. W. Piston, D. Porter, P. Pourchot, D. Prentki, J. Puschock, D. Rudis, K. Russell, J. Sauer, L. Scharf, R. L. Scher, M. A. Schultz, W. Schuster, M. Schwan, M. T. Schwitters, D., P, & S. Senner, D. Shaw, D. W. Sonneborn, S. Studebaker, P Suchanek, A. Swingley, G. Tans, M. E. Tedin, T. Tobish, R. Trotter, B. Tweit, G. Van Vliet, P. Vanselow, J. Vining, M. L. Ward, G. Whaley, Wilderness Bird Tours (B. Dittrick, J. Huntington et al.), R. Winckler, Wings, Inc., Inc. 0- 1- Dunn, P. E. Lehman et al.), K. Zervos, S. Zimmerman. 1$ Thede Tobish, 2510 Foraker Drive Anchorage, Alaska 99517, (tgt@alaska.net) 496 NORTH AIMERICAN BIRDS r I British Columbia I ' I I I. ^ I Masset Queen Charlotte yi Islands Prince Queen Charlotte City Tofino* Vancouver Island * Prince George Williams Lake* Revelstoke^ ■' Kamloops* • Vernon ■ Vancouver * Kelowra • • \ • Penticton \ Fort St. John Dawson Creek Victoria Cranbrook Donald G. Cecils March was cool, wet and often windy throughout. April dried out and warmed up a bit. But the weather nev- er really showed promise of the summer to come until the last ten days of May, when hot- ter, dry weather prevailed. With wet and windy conditions prevailing, a good variety of interior birds was found along the coast, with the outer coast in particular capturing many vagrants. GEESE THROUGH SHOREBiRDS Ross’s Geese are very rare in the s. interior but this spring were found at a number of loca- tions: on the early side, a single was in Kam- loops 18 Mar (fide RH); another was between Penticton and Summerland 21 Mar-4 Apr (ph. LN et ah); one was in Quesnel 25 Mar (fide PR); one was in Nakusp 19 Apr (GSD); one was seen in a flock of Canada Geese over Okanagan Falls 21 Apr (CC); and most re- markable was the report of a flock of 18 near Vernon 3 May (fide RJC). An astonishing number of Trumpeter Swans was seen in a held near Vanderhoof, where 900 were count- ed 24 Mar (CA), nearly doubling the previous high count for the interior. Rare along the coast, Eurasian Teal were found in Mar: in Courtenay 1 Mar (RHi), Maplewood 3-16 Mar (RL), and Victoria 13 Mar (MB). The only Tufted Duck reported was a male seen from the Iona s. jetty 31 Mar (MKM). Casual in the Region, a second-summer male Steller’s Eider was found near Gordon’s Beach, s. Vancouver 1. 26 May (ph. RTo, LH); this bird furnishes the 8th Regional record. Arctic Loons have long been suspected of frequenting coastal waters, and there are now hve reports spanning the past eight years. This spring, an alternate-plumaged ad. was well de- scribed with both Pacihc and Common Loons nearby for comparison near Gordon’s Beach, s. Vancouver 1. 20 May (ph. RTo, LH). The Kootenays experienced a good migration of Red-necked Grebes, with a large aggregation of 58 birds on Arrow L., Nakusp 19 Apr (GSD). Very rare on the coast, a Clark’s Grebe was at Jordan R. 15 Apr (ph. RTo, LH et ah). American White Pelicans arrived early on Williams L., with one there 24 Mar (ph. CA), and one spent several weeks on Quamichan L., confirmed 12-14 May (fide DM), for a first local record. A tantalizing description of a possible Masked Booby was received, having been seen briefly in flight in Parksville 23 May (tRT, NR); there are no confirmed records for the province. Very rare along the coast, particularly in spring, a Swainson’s Hawk was seen heading northward over Martindale Flats, Victoria 11 May (CSa). A Richardson’s Merlin, the prairie subspecies, was seen at Okanagan Lake P.R near Summerland 21 Apr (RyT). Adding to the few sightings of the past decade in the cen. interior, a Whooping Crane was de- scribed from the n. shore of Frangois L, as it flew at a height of 50 m, heading westward 16 May (tKW). Black-necked Stilts made their near-annual pil- grimage into the s. interior: 12 in the Kootenays at Wasa 7 Apr QM); 5 at T’Kumlups Pond, Kamloops 9-30 Apr (PH, DW, RH), where they were successful nesters two years ago; 7 on Robert L., Kelowna 29 Apr (RC); 5 n. of Osoyoos 9 May (MB); and the last of the spring were 2 at Osoyoos L. 16 May (CC et ah). Rare spring transients in the Kootenays, American Av- ocets numbered 8 at Eliza- beth L., Cranbrook 22 Apr (GR) and one at Burton 15 May (GSD). Greater Yel- lowlegs continue to push the early arrival envelope, with a record-setting arrival in Tofi- no 14 Mar (AD, RC); by the usual average arrival date, 26 birds were present 30 Mar (AD, RC). A single Spotted Sandpiper was record early in Oliver, s. Okanagan 6 Apr (DB). Whimbrel is rare in the interior, yet 2 were found this spring: one at Roundup L. in the Cariboo 12 May (ph. PR) and one on the Stump Lake Ranch near Kamloops 14 May (RH). Long-billed Curlews, a grassland species of concern, were found in very good numbers in the cen. interior: 23 near Vander- hoof 18 Apr (SL) and 26 near Shelly 16 Apr (SL). Very rare in the interior, a Marbled God- wit was at Cranbrook 12 May (KY). Rare along the coast, a Ruff was at Reifel 10 May Ql), and another was at Grice Bay, Tofino 22- 23 Apr (tJR, MC). GULLS THROUGH THRASHERS As gull numbers increased in the cen. interior this spring, two rarities were picked out of the flocks in Prince George: a Glaucous-winged Gull was at Cottonwood Island Park 18 Apr (NH et ah); and a Glaucous Gull was there 19 Apr (NH et al). Both furnished 2nd records for the local checklist area. Among the thou- sands of gulls feeding on herring roe, an ad. Slaty-backed Gull was located in Qualicum Bay, mid- Vancouver I. 13-15 Mar (AM, RS, JS). Very rarely seen from shore, a basic- plumaged Thick-billed Murre was off Gor- don’s Beach 20 May (LH, tRTo). Also rather cooperative from shore were single Horned Puffins: off Amphitrite Pt., Ucluelet 15-25 Mar (MT, AF); off Botanical Beach, Port Ren- frew 27 May (tRTo, LH); and off the s. tip of the Queen Charlotte Is. 22 May (BW, RB). Eurasian Collared-Doves continue their ex- pansion in the s. interior and along the s. coast. The most significant sighting this sea- son came from Carmanah Point Lightstation, This adult male Costa's Hummingbird was a surprise find at Jordan River, on the southwestern coast of Vancouver island, 7 April 2007. Photograph by Rick Toochin. VOlUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 497 BRITISH COLUMBIA Normally restricted in British Columbia to the very dry southern interior, a few Sage Thrashers wandered to the coast, such as this individual at Nanaimo River Estuary 14 (here) and 15 April 2007. Photograph by Guy L. Monty. a well-known vagrant trap on the w. coast of Vancouver I. 16 May QE)- Casual in the province, a male Costas Hummingbird was heard singing and seen performing territorial (lights at Jordan R. on the sw. coast of Van- couver 1. 7 Apr (ph. RTo). Another humming- bird rarity was also found at Jordan R., a male Calliope Hummingbird, normally destined for the dry s. interior; it too was a one-day wonder 15 Apr (tRTo). Other interior birds found along the coast include; a Says Phoebe in Sooke 24 Mar (RTo) and another at Maple- wood 6 Apr (MW); and single Western King- birds on Mt. Douglas, Victoria 21 Apr (MMG) and in Duncan 2 May (DM). Very rare in the province, a Loggerhead Shrike was near Knutsford 21 May (ph. GG). Very rare in the w. Kootenays, except the ex- treme s., a Black-billed Magpie was at Kaslo 27 Mar (DP). Sage Thrashers are very sparse- ly scattered in the sagebrush habitats of the extreme s. interior, yet remarkably, 2 were found on the coast: one was in North Van- couver 5 Apr (RL), and another was at the Nanaimo River Estuary 14-15 Apr (ph. GLM et ah). The latter furnished a 5th record for Vancouver 1., with all previous records occur- ring in May. WARBLERS THROUGH FINCHES Previously accidental but now annual over the past six years, a Northern Parula was found singing in s. Surrey 30 May (tCG, ph. PC et al), falling well within the usual late May-early Jim window for e. passerines. A Chestnut-sided Warbler, however, did not fol- low the rules of vagrancy, arriving extremely early in Jordan River 1 May (RTo). A Cape May Warbler was a very good find at Tumbler Ridge 26 May (GLM, BSc). Very rare in the Region, a male Hermit Warbler was found within a flock of Townsends Warblers at Jor- dan River 21 Apr (tRTo); even more shocking was the discovery of a pair of Hermit War- blers in Sooke Mountain Park 12 May (tRTo, Cl). Very rare in the Lower Mainland, a Black- and-white Warbler was found scaling the lo- cal Alder and Cottonwoods at Maplewood 21 May (RL). A Brewers Sparrow was unusual at Wilson Cr., Sunshine Coast 22-23 Apr (AS). Casual in the province, single Black-throated Sparrows were found along the Grant Nar- rows Nature Trail, Pitt Lake 17-26 May (m.ob., ph. LJ, KL) and along the Nighthawk border w. of Osoyoos 24 May QG). Also casu- al in the province and well out of habitat and range, a Sage Sparrow was at Iona 1. 14 Mar (tTP), just 75 m from the site of the previous Iona record. This species had not been record- ed in the province since Apr 2000. The only report of Harris’s Sparrow came from Alaksen N.W.R. 24 May (PD). Black-headed Grosbeaks rarely stray n. of the Okanagan Valley into the Cariboo, but one such male was found singing near Mil- burn L. 11 May (fide PR). Lazuli Buntings were again recorded on the coast in small numbers, the most out of place being a female seen at Carmanah Point Lightstation 25 May OE) and a male near Long Beach 26 May (GB). Astonishingly early (especially consid- j ering the latitude) and setting a record-early arrival date for the province, a male and 2 fe- male Bobolinks were well described visiting a feeder in Quesnel 11-12 May (VW). The only report of Common Crackle away from the Peace R. area involved a single in Tofino 25 May (AD) at the exact location where one was discovered last year. The Bullock’s Oriole that wintered just n. of Qualicum Beach returned to the feeder after a 54-day absence 21 Mar-19 Apr (CB). Very rare in the s. interior, a pair of Purple Finches was on Anarchist Mt. 26 May QG, RS). A diligent observer picked out a Hoary Redpoll from a flock of 400 Com- ] mons in Prince George 31 Mar (SL), and 2 were at a feeder in the same area 1 Apr (ph. ' NH et al.). After a long absence. Pine Siskins | returned to the Kootenays in mid-Apr (GSD) and to the Okanagan 24 Mar (DGC). Acci- dental in the province, a green-backed male Lesser Goldhnch was well described from ‘ Lardeau 6 May (MJ); there are only four con- i firmed records of this species, the most recent from Princeton in May 1999. I Contributors (subregional editors in bold- face): David Allinson (Victoria), Cathy Anto- niazzi (c. interior), Michael Bentley, Cather- i ine Bonnar, Jack Bowling (weather summa- ' ry), George Bradd, Rob Butler, Peter Candido, j Richard J. Cannings (s. Okanagan), Chris i Charlesworth, Michael Church, Ralph Crom- | bie, Gary S. Davidson (Kootenays), Pete i Davidson, Adrian Dorst (Tofino-Ucluelet), ! Jerry Etzkorn, Andrew Foxall, George Gard- ner, Jeremy Gatten, Carlo Giovanni, Phil Heal, Nathan Hentze, Rick Hilton, Rick Howie, John Ireland, Corina Isaac, Len Jelli- coe, Marlene Johnston, Steven Lawrence, Kevin Louth, Rob Lyske, Art Martell, Derrick Marven, Joyce Maxwell, Mike McGrenere, Guy L. Monty, Martin K. McNicholl, Laure Neish, Mark Phinney (Peace River), Dirk Pid- cock, Phil Ranson (Cariboo), Tom Plath, Neil Robins, Greg Ross, June Ryder, Chris Saun- ders, Rick Schortinghuis, Bernard Schroeder, Jonathon Simms, Roger Simms, Arnold Skei, Mike Tabak, Roger Taylor, Rick Toochin Quan de Fuca), Keith Walker, Dave Whiting, Bruce Whittington, Val Winthrope, Mark Wynja, Kathy Young. 1$ Donald G. Cecile, 7995 Wilson-Jackson Road Vernon, British Columbia VI B 3N5, (dcecile@telus.net) 498 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS Oregon & Washington | Steven Miodinow David Irons BiilTweit This spring brought a potpourri of excit- ing events. Migrants were numerous, and rarities abounded. Wintering birds lingered rather late, only to mix with mi- grants, which came and left a week or two early. More importantly, the conditions off our coast remained abnormal. Pacific oceanogra- phers are using the term arrhythmia to ex- plain this phenomenon, and they noted that these recent large-scale “changes in the tim- ing of upwelling may favor particular seabird or salmon species, changing the make-up of animals along the coast.” Some of these changes seemed quite evident this spring, partly because of extensive offshore coverage; in addition to three organized pelagic trips (from Newport 25 March and from Westport 28 April and 19 May), there were observa- tions from a cruise ship off Oregon 3 May (JG, OS, R. & N. Armstrong), a NOAA research vessel 8-11 May (SMi, TG), a survey in the Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary 8 May (CW), and a fishing vessel 15-16 May (BT). The spring was dry, averaging about 75% normal precipitation on the westside and 50% normal on the east. The season was also warm, especially March, when the Region av- eraged 5° F above normal, among warmest 10% of Marches during the past 112 years. Abbreviations: Finley (Finley N.W.R., Benton)-, ER.R. (Fern Ridge Res., Lane); Lower Klamath (Lower Klamath N.W.R., Klamath); N.S.C.B. (N. Spit Coos Bay, Coos); P.S.B. (Port Susan Bay, Snohomish); P.T. (Puget Trough); W.V. (Willamette Valley); W.W.R.D. (Walla Walla R. delta, Walla Walla). Eastside and westside indi- cate e. and w. of the Cascade crest, respectively. WATERFOWL THROUGH RAILS Greater White-fronted Geese abounded across the Region. A likely w. Oregon record 7615 flew over Finley 27 Apr (WDR), while tallies of 555 at P.S.B. and 460 at Crockett L., Island 29 Apr were probably record highs for the P.T. (SM, N. Bonomo, RM). Additionally, 3600 at Conboy N.W.R., Klickitat 23 Apr was exceptional QE)- Two Greater White-fronted Goose X Snow Goose hybrids were near Mer- rill, Klamath 11 Mar (DI). Fairly typical for spring, 3 Emperor Geese were found through 9 Apr. Single Blue Geese at Harney Basin 24 Mar (A. Sohlstrom), RS.B. 8 Mar (SM), and Fir I., Skagit 20 Apr-6 May (RM, SM, BSW) were at locations where small numbers are now expected, though the latter bird was a month late. Two Blue Geese at Othello 10 Apr, however, provided a very rare e. Wash- ington record (RH). Snow Geese dawdled this year, highlighted by 1000 at Fir I. through 7 May, a goodly three weeks late for such num- bers (M. Axelson). Later yet was one near Wilson Cr., Grant 18 May (TL). A Ross’s Goose X Snow Goose hybrid visited Carna- tion, King 4 Mar (ph. T Mansfield), while an another led 2 imms. around Fir 1. 8 Mar (SM, R. Caniff, V. Baranyuk). Ross’s Geese have been recorded a number of times at Siberia’s Wrangel I. Snow Goose colony, and hybrids have been noted there as well, though no mixed pairs have been detected (V. Baranyuk); 50% of Wrangel’s Snow Geese winter in California’s Cen- tral Valley, the likely source of these errant Ross’s. Excel- lent numbers of stray Ross’s Geese were detected, with 7 in w. Oregon, 2 in w. Wash- ington, and 21 in e. Wash- ington, 12 Mar-30 Apr; peak passage was late Mar/early Apr. A Black Brant, very rare on the east- side, graced Lower Klamath 17 Mar (E Mayer). Two Bar- nacle Geese wandered near Brady, Grays Harbor 27 Mar+ (T. O’Brien); Barnacle Geese, undoubtedly es- capees from captivity, have been noted several times in Washington. Trumpeter Swans tarried again this year, the latest remaining at Graysmarsh, Clallam through 12 May Q- Coyle) and near Sno- homish into Jun (SM, G. Toffic); the last have typically departed by mid-Apr. Similarly tardy was a Tundra Swan at Calispell L., Pend Or- eille 25 May (TL). The Satsop, Grays Harbor Bewick’s Swan reappeared 3-16 Mar (ph. P&RS), while another that had mostly win- tered in California crossed into Oregon at Lower Klamath 9 Mar (C. Kisling). The Lane Ealcated Duck remained until 12 Apr (D. Brown). Eastside Eurasian Wigeons were gen- erally scarce, with 11 in Washington and 6 in Oregon, excepting 15 at Lower Klamath 10 Mar (DI); a similar concentration was found in the Klamath Basin last Mar. On the west- side, Eurasian Wigeons lingered unusually late, with one at Ridgefield into Jun (BF) and another at Vanport Wetlands, Multnomah through 21 May QG)- A near-normal 10 Eurasian Teal were noted through 4 May; eastside singles, where annual of late, visited Corfu, Gratrt 29 Mar-10 Apr (RH), Othello 29 Mar (RH), and Grandview, Yakima 10 Apr (W. Terrell). Eleven Eurasian Teal x Green- winged Teal intergrades were reported through 10 May; given that these sightings stem from just a few observers, the actual number of such birds present in the Region is likely greater. A Tufted Duck was on the east- side, where now nearly annual, at Hatfield L., Deschutes 10-16 May (C&MM), while one on the westside at Nehalem, Tillamook through 21 May was three weeks late (M. Simper); 3 others, all in w. Oregon, rounded out another excellent spring for this species. A White- winged Scoter adorned S. Twin L., Ferry 30- 31 May (G. Gumm); four of the six an- tecedent e. Washington spring records are from mid- to late May. Now an annual east- side spring visitor, a Long-tailed Duck graced Madras, Jefferson 17 Apr (C. & M. Miller). Another Common Goldeneye x Barrow’s Goldeneye hybrid was detected, this one at Penn Cove, Island 29 Apr (SM, N. Bonomo). An Arctic Loon lingered off P.N.P. 8-18 Apr, about the 7th for Washington and the first af- ter Mar (VN, tCCx, ph. P&RS). A goodly 15,000 Pacific Loons passed Ft. Canby, Pacific 21 Apr (CW), while one near Wanapum Dam 18 Mar provided a very rare eastside spring record (S. Downes). Loon counts at Boiler Bay were fair, with maxima of 1 500 Red-throateds This Bewick's Swan at Satsop, Grays Harbor, Washington was present 3-16 (here 4) March 2007 and was likely the same bird present there in December 2006. This sub- species has been found annually during recent years in the Oregon & Washington re- gion. Photograph by Ruth Sullit/an. VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 499 i OREGON & WASHINGTON 1 A Long-billed Murrelet found in December 2006 at Point No Point, Kitsap County, Washington led to a definite "Patagonia Pic- nic Table Effect" over the subsequent six months, and the bonanza included this Arctic Loon, which was present from 8 to 18 (here 1 4) April 2007. Photograph by Ruth Sullivan. 1 Apr and 17,000 Pacifies 11 May (PP). An above-average 6 Yellow-billed Loons included a slightly late bird at Cape Arago, Coos 13 May (R. Namitz). On the westside, Clark’s Grebes again attended their ER.R. breeding colony, and 10 inhabited Vancouver L., Clark 26 May (SM, JW, BF), The 13 Clark’s noted elsewhere on the westside included 2 strag- glers at Pacific City, Tillamook 25 May (RHy) and tardy singles at Ankeny N.W.R., Marion 28 May (J. Epstein) and Yaquina Head, Lin- coln 25 May (RHy); nonbreeders typically have departed by 15 May. An excellent 5 Laysan Albatross were found off Oregon 25 Mar-16 May. A deceased Mot- tled Petrel was at Clatsop Beach 22 Mar (DB), adding to 2 found in Clatsop this Feb; these birds’ demise was likely related to this spring’s alcid die-off. A concentration of 1000 Pink- footed Shearwaters off Coos Bay 16 May was exceptional for spring (BT). Three Flesh-foot- ed Shearwaters 15-16 May was fairly typical for spring (BT). A passage of 115,000 Sooty Shearwaters at Ft. Canby Pacific 31 May was extraordinarily early (TG); such numbers are usually not encountered until Aug. Seven Manx Shearwaters from Boiler Bay to Pt. Grenville, Grays Harbor 1 Apr+ has become, amazingly, somewhat typical spring fare. Re- markable counts of 1000-1- Leach’s and 200-r Fork-tailed Storm-Petrels off s. Oregon 3 May (JG) provided a great backdrop for a Black/Markham’s Storm-Petrel off Golds Beach, Curiy (tJG, tOS) and North America’s 2nd Ringed Storm-Petrel off Coos Bay (TJG, TN. Armstrong) the same day. A flock of Blacks inshore at Seaside, Clatsop 8 Sep 1983 provid- ed the only other Regional record. See Pyle et al. 2005 (North American Birds 60: 162-163) for information regarding North America’s first Ringed, or Hornby’s, Storm-Petrel, found among California’s Channel Islands 2 Aug 2005. Westside American White Pelican numbers were unexceptional, with a maximum of 20 at FR.R. 17 May (D. Schrouder), plus 7 scattered across w. Washington in late May. A Brown Pelican at Yaquina Head, Lincoln 12 Mar was about a month early (CA). Brown Pelicans again entered the RT. early, with one at Port Angeles 12 May (T. Noyes) and 3-4 around Port Townsend 15 May (B. Marston, R. Rogers); the first usually appear in Jul. The Coos Bay Great Fgret rookery, first noted in 1988, sported a record 65 nests 30 Apr (TR). A Snowy Fgret at Wallula, Walla Walla 20 May yielded Washington’s first spring record since 2002 (M&MD); Washington has about 46 records, all since 1975. Glossy Ibis con- tinue to spread northwestward across the continent, with 2 at Malheur 30 May (TJG, TOS) providing Oregon’s 2nd record, the first coming from Malheur last spring. Snohomish's first White-tailed Kite was near Snohomish 25 May (DD); this species seems to be slowly expanding its westside range. Three of Washington’s wintering Red-shoul- dered Hawks lingered into spring, with the last seen 27 Mar. Swainson’s Hawks were ex- ceptionally rare on the westside prior to 1997, but numbers subsequently increased sharply, now averaging 2-3 per spring. This year, 5 were found in w. Washington and 3 in w. Ore- gon, 19 Apr-15 May. A Swainson’s at Bonan- za, Klamath 17 Mar was about a month early 0- VanMoorhem). Rough-legged Hawks re- mained later than normal, with the last ap- pearing at Rock L., Whitman 5 May (D. We- ber) and P.S.B. 6 May (SM, BSW). For the 3rd consecutive spring, a Crested Caracara graced Oregon. One visited Floras L., Curry 22 Mar, a site that has provided two of Ore- gon’s five previous records (R. McKenzie); this, or another caracara, was about 30 km away at Myrtle Point, Coos 21 Apr (R. Brooks). An extraordinary 4 Prairie Merlins (subspecies richardsoni) were on the westside from Portland northward, 18 Apr-6 May; this subspecies may prove annual in small num- bers on the westside, perhaps occurring more as a migrant than winter resident. An unre- markable 6 Gyrfalcons were found through 18 Mar, all but one in Washington. A Yellow Rail at Ridgefield 6 May would provide Wash- ington’s 3rd record, if accepted by the B.R.C. (TE. Scattergia, C. Hinkle, A. Hinkle); notably, Yellow Rails arrive at their s. Oregon breeding grounds in late Apr/early May. SHOREBIRDS THROUGH WOODPECKERS Sixteen Black-bellied Plovers were tallied from five e. Washington sites, where not annual during spring, 3 May-i-; the maximum was 8 at Wilson Creek, Grant 18-20 May (TL). Crook's first American Golden-Plover visited Powell Butte 19 May, providing only the 4th eastside record of a northbound bird (CG); single Americans at Brady, Grays Harbor 26 Apr (TA) and Sauvie 1. 12 May QW) represented a typi- cal spring for the westside. The Skagit Pacific Golden-Plover was last seen 11 Mar (GB); otherwise this spring was unremarkable for Pacifies, with 5 on the westside, 21 Apr-13 May. Two other golden-plovers remained unidentified. The P.T.’s 4th Snowy Plover adorned P.S.B. 30 May (R. Fuller). Black- necked Stilts are now firmly entrenched as a WV breeder; pairs were noted at seven or more sites, with nesting evidence from at least four. The greatest concentration was at FR.R., with 28 birds recorded from late Apr+ (D. Far- rar). Western Washington had a goodly 6 stilts, 29 Apr-9 May. Five westside American Avocets 25 Apr+ was about average. C A White-faced Ibis irrupted Regionwide for the first time since 2001, with 77 in Washington and 634 in w. Oregon. jn\ \ Washington's maxima were 44 at Columbia N.W.R., Grant 1 May (RH) and 21 at Ridgefield 19 May (D. Hayden), while w. Oregon's high count was 40 at F.R.R. 28 Apr (P. Sherrell). The northernmost bird visited Ferndale, Whatcom 24-26 May (J. Bird), and 1 8 at New R., Coos 14 May furnished the only outer coast sighting (TR). This irruption occurred in conjunction with drought in the species' breeding range, as have past incursions (Tweit and Fiores, 2006. Washington Birds). Interestingly, this spring's invasion began a week or two earlier than usual, and virtually all birds had departed by May's end. 500 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS OREGON & WASHINGTON A Yellow-bellied Sapsucker appeared in Shoreline, King County, Washington 23-27 (here 26) April 2007, providing about the severrth Washington record. Spring vagrant Yellow-bellieds are quite rare along the Pacific coast, where two to three are found annually, almost entirely from October through March, and peaking in November/December. Photograph by Ryan J. Merrill. Thirty westside and 6 eastside Solitary Sandpipers, mostly 17 Apr-5 May, was unre- markable; the maximum was 5 near Banks, Washington 5 May (GG). A Willet at Kennedy Cr., Mason, found 12 Aug 2006, remained un- til 7 Apr 0- Buchanan); this species is not an- nual in the P.T. Fourteen Whimbrels near Merrill, Klamath 12 May was among the high- est spring tallies ever for the eastside (Dl, KS), while a lone Whimbrel graced Creston, Lin- coln 25 May (K. Knittle, MB, M. Houston). A superb 9 Long-billed Curlews visited the W.Y/RT., where rare, 7 Apr-20 May. Thirty Marbled Godwits at Dungeness Bay, Clallam 26 Apr (BN) yielded an excellent count for the P.T., while 2 others inhabited Marchs Pt., Skagit 20-23 Apr (P. Webster, RM); this species is not annual during spring in the P.T.AV.V Four Marbleds in e. Washington 3- 25 May was twice the norm. Five Red Knots at Dungeness Bay 20 May were in the P.T., where not annual during spring (SM, BSW). A Sanderling, not annual during spring on the eastside, adorned Soap L., Grant 25 May (MB). Five Semipalmated Sandpipers, 9-19 May, was near normal. A congregation of 800 Least Sandpipers at Klipsan Beach, Pacific 16 Mar (MP) was unusual for such an early date and well exceeded the Washington winter record of 300. Ten Baird’s Sandpipers, mostly 1-11 May, was about twice the long-term norm but typical of recent years. Four Pec- toral Sandpipers, 17-24 May, was also about average. A Ruff graced the Region for the 3rd consecutive spring, with one at Ridgefield 21- 23 May (BF). A Short-billed Dowitcher, not annual on the eastside, enlivened Little Hous- ton L., Crook 19 May (CG). The westside’s first hendersoni Short-billed Dowitcher brightened PS.B. 17 May (SM); the two an- tecedent Regional records are both from e. Washington (Paulson 1993; Shorebirds of the Pacific Northwest). A Wilson’s Phalarope at Richland 2 Apr was about three weeks early (B. Clarke). In w. Washington, Wilson’s were unusually numerous, highlighted by 28 at PS.B. 28 May (SM); in w. Oregon, two nests at Finley 18 May provided Benton’s first breeding record and added to a growing list of W.V. breeding sites (R. P Moore). South Polar Skuas arrived early again, with lone ads. off Coos Bay 16 May (BT) and West- port May 19 (B. LaBar) furnishing the first May records since 2004; most spring/early summer skua records have been of ads. Other- wise, jaegers were not numerous, with about 12 Pomarines, 41 Parasitics, and 31 Long- tailed Jaegers reported offshore. All but one of the Long-taileds were at the Continental Shelf edge off s. Oregon 3 May QG). In the P.T., where not annual during spring, a Parasitic visited Dungeness Bay, Clallam 20 May (BSW, SM). Spring Franklin’s Gulls are not quite an- nual on the westside and average about 5 per year in e. Washington. This spring, stray Franklin’s included 2 at Reardan, Lincoln, WA 12 May (TL) and singles at Yaquina Bay Lin- coln, OR 17 May (D. Rymal), FR.R. 23 May (R. Robb), and Ft. Canby Pacific 31 May (TG). A Little Gull passed P.N.P. 1 May (’VN); this species is not quite annual during spring, and nearly all recent sightings are from P.N.P. Two Heermann’s Gulls at Port Angeles to 16 Mar were holdovers from winter (BN, J. Mullaly); Washington’s first spring sightings are usually during early or mid-May. Washington’s 2nd Black-tailed Gull materialized among a small group of Ring-billed Gulls in farmland near Corfu, Grant 12 May (RH); this species’ pat- tern of occurrence in North America remains utterly enigmatic. A Lesser Black-backed Gull inhabited Moses L., Grant 18-23 Mar (DS, ph. RM); this is probably the same bird that fur- nished Washington’s 6th record at Moses L. in Mar 2006. An astounding 32 Glaucous Gulls, all but 3 on the westside, was more than quadruple normal. Maxima included 8 near Brady, Grays Harbor 11 Mar (CW) and 8 in Clatsop 26 Mar QG, S. Finnegan, B. Stites). Most had left by 10 Apr, but an exceptionally late bird lingered at Yaquina Bay through 25 May (RHy, CA, W. Hoffman). A Least Tern on N.S.C.B. 30 May provided the Oregon 8th record (DL, KC); about half of the Region’s records are from late May/early Jun. Caspian Terns arrived early again. One at the W.W.R.D. 17 Mar was but two days shy of the e. Washington record early, date (M&MD), while one at Bandon, Coos 10 Mar was about two weeks early for the westside (R. Namitz). Black Terns returned to their sole consistent westside nesting location, FR.R., 30 Apr (D. Schrouder); elsewhere on the westside, 6 in the W.V. from Baskett Slough to Ridgefield, 12-26 May, was near normal. Western Washington’s 8th and 9th spring Forster’s Terns enlivened Post Office L., Clark and Vancouver L., Clark 26 May (BF, JW SM). In w. Oregon, where nearly annual during spring, 3 graced Lebanon, Linn 12 May 0- Harding). Marbled Murrelets remained ex- ceptionally numerous in Admiralty Inlet this spring, highlighted by 500 off Pt. Wilson, Je/- ferson 22 Apr (SM, BSW). Further circum- stantial evidence of Ancient Murrelets breed- ing on the Olympic Pen. was provided by 52 between La Push and Cape Alava 31 May (RM). Parakeet Auklets appeared again in stunning numbers, though not quite match- ing last spring’s 60: Washington had 3 off Grays Harbor and 20 off Clallam/Jefferson, all between 20 and 50 km from shore during the first half of May (SMi), and Oregon had 5 off Lirtcoln and 2 off Clatsop 9-11 May (SMi). A decade ago. Band-tailed Pigeons were considered vagrants to the eastside, but re- cently numbers have been found in e. Klicki- tat, and 40 at Snoqualmie Pass 23 May sug- gests that this species is a normal part of e. Kittitas's avifauna (TA); a Band-tailed at Kla- math Falls 16 Apr was the only other eastside report (]. Van Moorhem). White-winged Doves at Canby, Clackamas 7 Mar (fide HN) and Cape Blanco 17-18 May (TJW) added to 11 prior Oregon records; there have now been eight Oregon records since 2000. Eurasian Collared-Doves are now so numerous in e. VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 501 OREGON & WASHINGTON C A During Mar, beached bird surveys detected a dramatic die-off among some larger alcids. Most affected were Rhinoceros Auklets, Homed Puffins, and Tufted Puffins. Starting in late Feb, J ti informal tideline searches from Coos through Clatsop found carcasses of Horned Puffins and Rhinoceros Auklets on nearly all beaches surveyed. This die-off reached its apex around 22 Mar, when 286 Rhinoceros Auklets, 97 Horned Puffins, and 1 8 Tufted Puffins were found on Clatsop beaches (MP, DB). The sole Mar pelagic trip, off Newport 25 Mar, encountered nearly 500 Rhi- noceros Auklets and an Oregon-record 7 live Horned Puffins, though several appeared to be ailing (GG). Six more live Homed Puffins were seen from land in Oregon 4 Mar-1 Apr, and one passed Cape Flattery 3 Apr (CW). Two to 3 Horned Puffins, living and dead, are found in Oregon during a typical year, and this species is not annual in Washington. This year's event seemed similar to last year's in that there were large numbers of live Parakeet Auklets offshore and dead Rhinoceros Auklets onshore. This year's occurrence was even more extensive, however, involving Homed and Tufted Puffins, plus a few Thick-billed Murres and Mottled Petrels. Furthermore, one wonders if this winter's incursion of Thick-billed Murres into the P.T. was related. These events seem related to the oceanic arrhythmia, but why certain species suffered and why the mortality seemed limited largely to Oregon remains mysterious. Washington that many observers have stopped reporting them. Most “new arrivals” were found late Apr-late May. Collared-doves appeared at a record six locations in w. Wash- ington, where still rare, including 2 on the Olympic Pen. at the Region’s nw. tip. We prognosticate that the Region will be fully colonized within a decade. This spring’s Yellow-billed Cuckoo was at Fields 20 May (D. Robberson); virtually all re- cent Regional records are from se. Oregon 28 May-15 Jun. Amazingly, a Flammulated Owl in Ritzvilie, Adams 14 May furnished Wash- ington’s first spring record away from breed- ing habitat (B. Lyle). A few Snowy Owls lin- gered from last winter’s “echo invasion,” in- cluding one at Peone Prairie, Spokane 28 Apr that was about a month late (H. Ferguson, C. McCormack). A Northern Hawk Owl bright- ened Driveway Butte (elevation ~ 1600 m), Okanogan 29 May (TT. Paprocki); one won- ders if this species occasionally breeds in the state. A Great Gray Owl, not annual in w. Washington, was on Geumes I., Skagit 12 Mar (W. McDougal). The status of Long-eared Owl on the westside is poorly understood, but most records are from Nov-Mar, so one in Kent, King 22 May was unexpected (RM). Unprecedented numbers of Black Swifts passed along the Coos coast 16-23 May, with an Oregon record 248 along the New R. 16 May and 211 there 22 May (TR). A Black- chinned Hummingbird at Wapato, Yakitna 15 Apr was two weeks early (AS), while singles at Mt. Pleasant, Skamania 21 Apr (WC) and Lo- rane, Lane 30 Apr (fide T. Mickel) yielded rare westside records. Oregon’s Costa’s Humming- bird for the spring visited Veneta, Lane 4 May (fide T. Mickel). A Calliope Hummingbird at College Place, Walla Walla 8 Apr was also two weeks early (M&MD). On the westside. Cal- liopes appeared in record numbers, with 5 in Washington, 15 Apr-8 May and approximate- ly 30 in Oregon, 15 Apr-6 May. A stunning 129 Rufous Hummingbirds were banded at two houses on cen. Whidbey 1. 14 May (M. Myers). A Lewis’s Woodpecker, not annual in w. Washington during spring, visited P.N.R 12 May (BSW VN). An Acorn Woodpecker at Oakville, Grays Harbor 12-16 May was about the 5th for w. Washington (ph. P&RS); after approximately 15 years of being restricted to a small portion of Klickitat, Acorn Woodpeckers have, since 2005, popped up at seemingly ran- dom locations statewide. Rare w. of the Cas- cades, an exceptional 7 Red-naped Sapsuckers were detected 1 Mar-27 Apr, including one on the outer coast, where very rare, at Astoria 10 Apr (TG). A Yellow-bellied Sapsucker at Shoreline, King 23-27 Apr was approximately Washington’s 7th and the latest by five weeks (C. Turner). PASSERINES A Western Wood-Pewee at Toppenish, Yakima 26 Apr was about ten days early and was e. Washington’s earliest ever (RH). This spring’s Least Flycatchers included an early bird at Coppei Cr., Walla Walla 19 May (M&MD), plus singles at Upper Klamath L. 28 May (KS, D. Heyerly, M. A. Heyerly) and Fields 28 May (AC). A Gray Flycatcher at Steigerwald L., Clark 6-14 May provided w. Washington’s 7th record, all but one of which have been during May (TWC). In the WV, Gray Flycatchers are annual during spring, but 4 during 1-4 May was supranormal. Dusky Flycatchers, not an- nual in w. Washington, were noted at Kirk- land, King 2 May (tRM, N. Bonomo) and in Skagit near Nehalem 5 May (GB, H. Arm- strong); most lowland w. Washington records are from mid-May. This species is more regu- lar in w. Oregon, but 10 there 24 Apr-r was ex- ceptional, and one at Astoria 22 Apr was on the outer coast, where very rare (MP). For the 7th consecutive year, a Black Phoebe ap- peared in Washington, with one on Puget L, Wahkiakum 18 Mar furnishing the state’s 11th record (tBT, R. Shaw). An unprecedented 11 Say’s Phoebes were in w. Washington, 5 Mar-6 Apr, while 10 in w. Oregon was about average. Singleton Scissor-tailed Flycatchers adorned Fields 20 May (D. Robberson) and Malheur 21-26 May (DS); this species is now annual in Oregon. Three westside Loggerhead Shrikes, 25 Mar-12 May, was fairly typical. Single Plumbeous Vireos inhabited Malheur 19 (OS, TDS) & 24-26 May (TR, DI), representing an average spring; in our Region, this species oc- curs almost exclusively in se. Oregon mid- May-mid-Jun. A Warbling Vireo in Corvallis 6 Apr was at least two weeks early (WDR). A Blue Jay remained on Fidalgo L, Skagit through Apr (M. Smith, R. Hamerly), while 5 appeared in e. Washington 5-15 May — not an unusual spring for this species. Western Scrub-Jays were found n, to P.N.R (VN, BSW) and e. to Prosser, Benton (NL, BL). A group of 6-10 Bank Swallows were at a potential nest site along the Columbia R. near St. Helens 12 May QW), while Clallam’s first Bank Swallow visited Dungness Bay 20 May (SM, BSW) and Kitsap's first passed P.N.R 25 May (BSW, VN), all likely evidence of continuing westside range expansion. Two Chestnut-backed Chickadees in Yakima 18 Mar were e. of their normal range, where not annual (R. Repp). The only lowland Mountain Chickadees brightened Sherwood, Washington 8 Mar (D. Robberson) and Redmond, King 12 Mar (R Cozens). Two Juniper Titmice occupied Lan- gell Valley in e. Klamath 27 Apr (KS); local ef- forts at distinguishing Juniper from Oak Tit- mice suggest the former may occur farther w. than previously appreciated. Lone Rock Wrens appeared at Tarboo Bay, Jefferson 11 May (F Krause), Bullard’s Beach, Coos 12 May (K. Tran), Corvallis 15 May 0- Geier), and near Florence, Lane 13 May (B. Combs). Traditionally, this species has been considered very rare in the RT.AV.V and ex- tremely rare farther w., but sightings across the westside have been increasing. Several Varied Thrushes dawdled on the eastside low- lands, the last of which was about three weeks late at Sun Lakes, Grant 6 May (S. Downes). Mountain Bluebirds exploded into the west- side lowlands, with 32+ in Washington and 6 in Oregon, 18 Mar-11 May, including an ex- traordinary 10 on the outer coast at Hobuck Beach, Clallam 2 Apr (CW); the lowland west- side averages about 4 per spring. It was also an extraordinary year for Townsend’s Solitaires in the westside lowlands, with the award for most bizarre going to a solitaire approximate- ly 60 km off Westport 15 May (BT). Two soli- taires at Corvallis 22 May were about three weeks tardy (T. Snetsinger). Single Gray Cat- birds visited Malheur 27 May (Paul Sullivan) 502 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS OREGON & WASHINGTON and Roaring Springs Ranch, Harney 31 May (RHy); migrant catbirds are rare in e. Oregon and typically found in late May. Six Northern Mockingbirds in Oregon was somewhat sub- par, but 6 in Washington was above average. Peak occurrence was 1-16 May; surprisingly, none were on the eastside. Sage Thrashers seem to have become rare-but-annual spring vagrants to the westside, evidenced by one at Westport 29 Apr (B. Bell, R. Lawson) and 2 at Marymoor Park, King 3 May (M. Hobbs). The Eugene Brown Thrasher remained until 21 Mar (D. Turner). Rather unexpected was a Bo- hemian Waxwing at N. Baldy (elevation about 1800 m). Pend Oreille 25 May, two months af- ter the last migrants have typically departed (TL); there are a few nesting records from sim- ilar habitat in the n. Cascades. A Tennessee Warbler visited Mil- waukie, Clackamas 20 May Q. Allinger); though annual during northbound migration, most records are from se. Oregon 20 May-15 Jun. Single Northern Parulas enlivened Malheur 13 May (D. Evered) and Fields 28 May (AC); the Region av- erages about one per spring, usually at the se. Oregon oases. This spring’s Chestnut-sided Warbler was near Lakeview, Lake 29 May Q- Harding). Three different Magnolia Warblers visited Malheur 17-28 May (OS, M&MD), roughly thrice the spring norm for Oregon. Oregon’s 11th Black-throated Green Warbler graced Finley 25 Apr (WDR); this record is extremely early for anywhere in the West — even in California, most spring va- grants are found mid-May-mid-Jun (Dunn and Garrett 1997; Warblers). Salem’s wintering Hermit Warbler disappeared after 10 Mar Q- Vincent). The wintering Palm Warbler at Ren- ton, King remained until 27 Mar (L. Rutter), while migrants were near Sequim, Clallam 1-3 Apr (S. Atkinson, CW) and at Cape Blanco 4 May (TJW); this species is rare away from the outer coast, and northbound migrants are not found annually. The Region’s hrst northbound Blackpoll Warbler since 2003 visited Malheur 27 May (D. Hale). A Black-and-white Warbler enlivened Windust Park, Franklin 27 May (CW); Washington averages about one per year, with records widely scattered throughout the seasons. Oregon had a subpar 2 Black-and- whites, with singles at Portland 5 May Q- Leaptrott) and Frenchglen, Harney 27 May (AC). A Worm-eating Warbler at Malheur 15 May would provide Oregon’s 3rd record if ac- cepted by the B.R.C. (D. Evered). A Northern Waterthrush, extremely rare during spring in w. Washington, graced Rattlesnake L., King 30 May (fide M. Donahue). The recolonization of w. Washington by Yellow-breasted Chats seemed to accelerate suddenly, with 11+ birds, including 6+ at Ridgefield/Shillapoo Bottoms 26 May+ (SM, BF, JE). The Summer Tanager wintering at Alvadore, Lane remained through 5 Apr 0- & G- Jacobson), while a Summer Tanager at Malheur 27 May (m.ob.) was about the 19th for the state, most of which have oc- curred mid-May-mid-Jun. A Regional record 450 Western Tanagers streamed over P.N.P. 9 May (VN, BSW). An American Tree Sparrow at Marymoor Park, King 12 Apr was record late for w. Washington (M. Hobbs), while one at Port Orford, Curry 14-18 Mar was in sw. Oregon, where not annual (L. Miller). A wintering Clay-colored Sparrow remained at N. Bend, Coos through 26 Mar (B. Griffin), whereas one at Steptoe Butte, Whitman 29 May+ was at a location where one summered last year (M. Woodruff). Another Clay-colored at Benning- ton L., Walla Walla 15 May was in e. Wash- ington, where nearly annual as a spring mi- grant (M&MD), but one at N.S.C.B. 29 May may have been the first spring migrant ever detected in w. Oregon (DL, KC). Single Brew- er’s Sparrows at Redmond, King 10 Apr (]. Tubbs) and PN.P 25 & 28 May (BSW) added to about 12 w. Washington records; most have been 2 Apr-5 Jun. A superb 6 Vesper Spar- rows were found away from their restricted breeding range in w. Washington, 2-28 May; the recent spring average has been about 2. Seven Lark Sparrows at Cape Blanco 10 May (TJW) were on the s. Oregon coast, where an- nual, but one at Cascade Head, Tillamook 19 May was in nw. Oregon, where not annual (PP). A Black-throated Sparrow returned to its traditional breeding location near Vantage, Kittitas 31 May (TA), and 2 inhabited a new site near Prosser, Benton 20 May (S. Wieren- ga), hinting that e. Washington might have another good summer for this scarce species. As often happens when numbers are high on the eastside, several Black-throateds were found on the westside, including 3 in Oregon 8-22 May and 2 in Washington 13-27 May. Western Washington’s 7th Sage Sparrow en- livened Marymoor Park, King 29 Mar-2 Apr (M. Flint); five of the antecedent records have been in spring, four in Mar. An apparent alti- vagans Fox Sparrow was at Nisqually, Thurston 19-20 Mar (ph. P&RS); this myste- rious subspecies and/or hybrid swarm is probably a scarce migrant in our Region. A Red Fox Sparrow (subspecies group iliaca), annual in the Region, visited Bellingham 9-11 Apr (G Heleker, ph. MB). Most wintering Swamp Sparrows seem to have departed by mid-Mar. Migrants are not annual and are found mostly on the westside, mid- Mar-mid-Apr. This spring, 4 appar- ent northbound birds appeared on the westside, the latest of which in- habited Finley 28 Apr, furnishing Oregon’s 4th latest record (WDR). Even rarer on the eastside, north- bound Swamp Sparrows visited Crow Butte, Benton 15 Mar (DR) and W. Richland 30 Mar-1 Apr (NL). A goodly 6 Harris’s Sparrows were found through 6 May. Golden- crowned Sparrows tarried through- out the Region; Oregon’s latest was at Bend 28 May (RHy), and Wash- ington’s were in Jun. A Washington- record 3000+ White-crowned Spar- rows filled fields near Quincy, Grant 22 Apr (DS). Single Golden-crowned Sparrow X White-crowned Sparrow hybrids graced Seattle 22 Apr (tA. Grenon) and Portland 25 Apr (ph. S. Finnegan). A Slate-colored Junco (subspecies hyemalis) at Skagit W.M.A. 11 May was record late for Washington (TA). Five Rose-breasted Grosbeaks, 3 in Oregon and 2 in Washington, 21 May+, was about half the norm. A Lazuli Bunting in Yakima 1 1 Apr was Washigton’s earliest for spring since 1913 (fide DG); the first usually appear around 1 May. An Indigo Bunting visited the same Mukilteo, Snohomish feeder that har- bored one last winter/spring but was noted this year only 24-26 Apr (1. Beegle, DD); Washington has about 19 records. Annual in Oregon during spring, an Indigo Bunting vis- ited Paulina, Crook 19 May (CG). Tricolored Blackbirds continued to cement their footholds in Washington. At Wilson Cr., Grant, a maximum of 48 was tallied 14 Apr (E. Kane), while 50 inhabited Othello, Adams 18 Apr (BT). Tricoloreds were also noted near Texas L., Whitman in mid- Apr, where they have bred previously (D. Weber), and up to Tricolored Blackbirds continue to expand their range in eastern Washington. In early May 2007, up to 22 descended on a feeder in College Place, Walla Walla County (one male, photographed on 3 May, shown here). Tricolored Blackbirds were first recorded in Walla Walla County in November 2004. Photograph byMerryiynn Denny. VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 503 OREGON & WASHINGTON 22 visited a feeder in College Place, Walla Walla throughout early May (M&MD). Just s. in Oregon, a new colony of 250 ads. was dis- covered near Umapine, Umatilla 20 May (MD). A Rusty Blackbird near Othello 28 Mar furnished the Regions hrst spring record since 2004 (AS); most Rusties are found mid- Oct-late Jan. Washington’s 14th Common Crackle, and hrst since Jan 2003, was near Se- quim, Clallam 22-30 Apr (ph. SM, vt. BSW); most of Washington’s records have been Mar-Jul, and this was only w. Washington’s 4th. Now annual during spring in Oregon, single Common Crackles inhabited Malheur 12 May and Fields 16 May (S. Dowlan). Washington’s 4th Creat-tailed Crackle re- turned for its 5th consecutive year to Liberty L., Spokane 13-30 Apr (R. Dexter). Creat- tailed Crackles arrived in Oregon during the 1980s, occurring almost entirely in the se. portion of the state. Times are a-changing, and 6 of this spring’s 9 Oregon Creat-taileds were on the westside, almost all during May. Washington’s 8th Hooded Oriole returned to Seattle 12 Apr-23 May (C. Conolly). A Balti- more Oriole, now a nearly annual north- bound migrant in Oregon, inhabited Malheur 25 May-i- (D. Herr). Astoria’s wintering Bul- lock’s Oriole lasted until 9 Mar (MP). Excep- tionally early were Bullock’s at Longview, Cowlitz 27 Mar (M. Creen) and near Moxee, Yakima 7 Apr (fide DO); the hrst usually ar- rive late Apr/early May. Additionally, Bullock’s Orioles seem to be increasing throughout w. Washington, highlighted by a w. Washington record 31 at Ridgeheld/Shillapoo Bottoms, Clark 26 May (SM, BF,JW). Washington’s 2nd Scott’s Oriole was near Selah, Yakima 12-17 Apr (tS. Hall); the hrst was in sw. Washing- ton, Feb-Apr 1980! Five wintering Pine Orosbeaks lingered in the Oregon Cascades at Todd L., Deschutes through 17 Mar (S. Dougill), and one re- mained in Portland until 15 Mar (W. Cross); amazingly, Oregon Pine Crosbeak breeding records are very few, and are all from the Wallowa and Blue Mts. A Pine Crosbeak in Edmonds, Snohomish 30 Apr was a goodly month late for the westside lowlands (DD). Red Crossbills, following the pattern of re- cent years, burst across the Region in late May/early Jun, with a high count of 600 at Cascade Head, Lincoln 28 May (PP); addi- tionally, singles appeared in the Columbia Basin, where rare, at Vantage 1 Jun (SM) and Washtucna, Adams 3 Jun (C. Sheridan). Lesser Coldhnches again flung themselves across Washington, a sign of continuing range expansion, with singles at Battle Cround, Clark 7 Apr 0- Danzenbaker), P.N.P. 9 May (VN, BSW), and Walla Walla 19 May (C. & R. Shoemake); indeed, Lessers have probably re-established themselves in Clark, where extirpated in 1991, and the Walfa Wal- la bird was that county’s 4th, all in the past three years. Northern California r\i/ Refuges % ( ^ ^Areata %% Eureka • Redding Lake Alnianor s Honey Lake \ t •Chico n Fort Bragg^ ■ Sacramento , Valley r. . A 1. «. C/enr Point Arena# \Lake Refuges Bodega Bay* ‘Santa Rosa * Cordell Banh S.E. Farallon Is. 5>BeS1^ •Stockton San Franciscop ♦jOakland ; San Jose Santa Cruz Monterey Bay !'• % Montereyp Salinas'^ Big SurA . Modesto •' • rybssmiie AfP V t^San Joaquin ''Valley Refuges Kings Fresno* Cartyoir], NP Sequoia NP Tulare Lake Bam Davidson Seamount Scott B. Terrill (Loons to Frigatebirds, Lands to Alcids) Michael M. Rogers (Waterfowl to Quail, Herons to Shorebirds) Steven A. Glover (Doves to Wrentit) Ed Pandolfino (Thrashers to Finches) This spring offered an interesting mix of unusual birds. There was a nearly un- precedented influx of nearshore Horned Puffins in the Region. This species occurs far offshore in winter, but it is unclear why so many individuals wandered into in- shore waters this year. Most dead birds exam- ined were emaciated, indicating a lack of food. The only other period with similar numbers of Horned Puffins was May-June 1975, when over 200 were recorded in the state. There were also late Ancient Murrelets Initialed observers (subregional editors in boldface): Cindy Ashy, Tom Aversa (Wash- ington), David Bailey, Range Bayer (Lincoln), Gary Bletsch, Marv Breece, Wilson Cady, Kathy Castelein, Alan Contreras, Craig Corder (Spokane), Cameron Cox, Mike & MerryLynn Denny (M&MD), Dennis Duffy, Joe Engler (Clark), Bob Flores, Chuck Gates (Crook), Roy Gerig (Polk, Marion), JeH Gilli- gan, Denny Granstrand (Yakima), Troy Guy, Randy Hill, Rich Hoyer (RHy), Stuart John- ston (Klickitat), Bill LaFramboise (lower Co- lumbia Basin), Nancy LaFramboise, David Lauten, Terry Little, Ryan Merrill, Tom Mick- el (Lane), Craig &Marilyn Miller (Deschutes, Jefferson), Scott Mills (SMi), Harry Nehls (OR), Vic Nelson, Bob Norton (Olympic Pen.), Clarence and Marilyn O’Leary (Grant), Michael Patterson (Clatsop), W. Doug Robinson (Benton, Linn, Marion), Tim Rodenkirk (Coos, Curry), Owen Schmidt, Doug Schonewald, Kevin Spencer (Klamath), Andy Stepniewski, Patrick & Ruth Sullivan (P&RS), Dennis Vroman (Josephine), Brad Waggoner (BSW), Terry J. Wahl, Jay With- gott, Charlie Wright. O Steven MIodinow, 4819 Gardner Avenue Everett, Washington 98203, (SGMIod@aol.com); David Irons, 2125 Hayes Street Eugene, Oregon 97045, (llsdirons@msn.com); BillTweit,P.O. Box 1271 Olympia, Washington 98507, (Sebnabgill@aol.com) and, just after the end of the season in June, there were very unusual reports of Thick- billed Murres and Parakeet Auklets. ft is tempting to speculate that the incursions of these four alcids, all Alaskan breeders, in spring and early summer were related. Unusual numbers of desert and Great Basin breeding sparrows (Brewer’s and Black-throat- ed) were noted north and west of their normal range. In addition, Black-chinned Sparrows showed up north and west of more typical breeding locations. Much of the desert south- west and the high desert of the Great Basin ex- perienced a severe drought this winter and spring. Much of these areas supported virtual- ly no primary productivity, and breeding birds were essentially absent. During such years, it is likely that migrant species such as the spar- rows continue to move in an effort to locate more favorable breeding conditions. Notewor- thy vagrants included the rare-in-spring 504 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS NORTHERN CALIF0RNIA| Three Laysan Albatrosses were seen together 1 6 kilometers west of the Eel River mouth in Humboldt County, California on 6 April 2007. Laysan are rare in the county, and most records are of single birds. Only 23% of Humboldt County obser- vations have come from the spring and summer seasons, and there are only six re- ports of multiple (2-4) birds together. Photograph by Kerry Ross. Red-throated Pipits and our most southerly record for Common Redpoll. Abbreviations: B.S.O.L. (Big Sur Ornithology Lab); C.B.R.C. (California B.R.C.); C.C.ES. (Coyote Creek Field Station, Santa Clara: C.R.P. (Cosumnes R. Preserve, Sacramento): C.V (Central Valley); FI. (Southeast Farallon I., San Francisco): H.R.S. (Hayward Regional Shoreline, Alameda): O.S.R (Open Space Pre- serve), P.R.B.O. (Pt. Reyes B.O.); S.F (San Francisco, not State Forest); U.C. (University of California). Reports of exceptional vagrants submitted without documentation are not published. Documentation of C.B.R.C. review species will be forwarded to Guy McCaskie, Secretary, RO. Box 275, Imperial Beach, Cali- fornia 91933. Birds banded on FI. should be credited to Pt. Reyes B.O. and those banded at Big Sur R. mouth to the Big Sur Ornithology Lab of the Ventana Wilderness Society. WATERFOWL An ad. Fulvous Whistling-Duck was seen again at the “Dead Pig Ponds” n. of Angiola, Tulare 2 Apr (SDS). An ad. Emperor Goose was found at the n. jetty of Humboldt Bay, Humboldt 2 Mar (tSteve Gellman). A count of 8 blue-morph Ross’s Geese tallied at the Merced N.W.R., Merced 21 Mar (PJM) dou- bled the previous high count in our note- books. Brant were well reported this spring; birds slightly inland included one at Huichica Creek W.A., Napa 7 Apr (MBe), one at Coyote Pt., San Mateo through 23 May (RSTh et al.), and at least one continuing in Santa Clara at Sunnyvale, Mountain View, and Palo Alto through 6 May (m.ob.). More surprising was a Brant far inland at Merced N.W.R., Merced 27 Apr (Bob Chase). Aleutian Cackling Geese lingered at Shoreline Park in Mountain View, Santa Clara through 4 May (MMR) and at El Estero, Monterey, Monterey through 3 Jun (AB, BTM, m.ob.). Two male Eurasian Wigeons at the mouth of Ja- coby Cr., Humboldt 12 May QTz) were likewise late. Fourteen Blue-winged Teal at Redwood Shores, San Mateo 4 Mar (RSTh) were the most ever for that location. Seven Eurasian Teal from four counties included a rather late bird in Novato, Marin 21 Apr (Harrison Karr). Late Ring-necked Ducks included a pair at Monte Bello O.S.R, Santa Clara through 19 May (GrH) and a male in Walnut Creek, Contra Costa 25 May (Hugh Harvey). Male Tufted Ducks were in Benicia, Solano 28 Mar (EPi) and at L. Merritt, Alameda through 2 Apr (Marilyn Trabert, Debbie Viess). Besides the usual lingering birds in Mendocino and Monterey, May Harlequin Ducks in- cluded a male near Chim- ney Rock, outer Pt. Reyes N.S., Marin 1 May (Bob Power) and a female at Pi- geon Pt., San Mateo 18 May (RSTh). A male Surf Scoter far inland at Bridgeport, Mono 15 Apr (FrO) was par- ticularly unexpected in spring. Five Long-tailed Ducks were reported through 1 Apr (m.ob.), and a lingering male was seen at Bodega Harbor, Sonoma 18 May (ph. Shannon Lyday, fide RS). On the heels of last season’s bird, another Buf- flehead x goldeneye hybrid was at the Shasta Valley W.A., Siskiyou 7-9 Apr (TRE, ph. Mike McVay). A female Hooded Merganser brooding eggs in a Wood Duck box 18 km w. of Grid- ley, Butte 18 Mar (Bill Wade) was from a location where breeding has oc- curred since 1996. Common Mergansers away from inland breeding areas included 2 at H.R.S. 4 Mar (RJR), one at Golden Gate Park, S.F. 22 Mar-20 Apr (Martha Wessitsh, m.ob.), and a female with 9 small young at the Carmel R. mouth, Monterey 27 May-i- (BHl, ph. BTM). Inland Red-breasted Mergansers included a continuing female at Kutras L., Redding, Shasta through 12 Mar (RBr, B&CY) and the 5th spring record for Lake at Clear L. 11 Mar (FHa). LOONS THROUGH BOOBIES The only inland Pacific Loon reported was at L. Berryessa, Napa 1 Mar (EP, FRo). “Al,” the infamous Laysan Albatross that has spent the past 14 winters at Pt. Arena Cove, Mendocino, was last noted 16 Mar (GS, Jeanne Jackson, m.ob.). Offshore Laysans were off Humboldt 6 Apr (3 birds; KGR) and off Monterey 9 (Brent Williamson, fide RgW) & 24 Apr (Greg Frankfurter). An imm. Short-tailed Albatross was 15 km w. of Cypress Pt., Monterey 22 Apr (Matt Sadowski, ph. DR, ph. m.ob.). Over a century ago, this species was fairly common in coastal inshore waters of the Region, but it nearly went extinct during the last century. Due to intensive conservation efforts, it has been making a comeback and has been re- ported nearly annually in the Region since the late 1990s. Relatively scarce in spring, a Flesh-footed Shearwater was on Monterey Bay, Monterey 13 Apr (RgW, RT). The latest Short-tailed Shearwater reported was on Monterey Bay, Monterey 17 Mar (RgW, RT). A nearshore Manx Shearwater was seen from Pt. Pinos, Monterey 15 Apr (BLS). Single Fork- tailed Storm-Petrels reported from Monterey Bay, Monterey 15, 18, 20, & 23 May (RT, ShJ) were the only ones reported. Brown Boobies continue to invade the Region, with one to 2 This long-staying Brown Booby was enjoyed by many birders at the Santa Cruz Mu- nicipal Wharf, Santa Cruz, California, photographed here on 27 March 2007. Photo- graph by Jeff Poklen. VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 505 NORTHERN CALIFORNIA Crested Caracaras continue to appear in California. This in- dividual was photographed near Ferndale, at the Eel River Bottoms, on 26 March 2007. Photograph by Kerry Ross. at F.I. 3 Mar-9 Apr (P.R.B.O., fide Russ Braciley) and one to 3 in Monterey Bay in Monterey and Santa Cruz Mar-Apr (m.ob.). HERONS THROUGH CRANES An American Bittern at L. Merced, first found 29 Jan (BFi), remained through 11 Mar (Dorothy Reinhardt) for one of few S.E records. Least Bitterns were reported from Sutter N.W.R., Sutter 4 May (SAG, LWC) and Alpaugh, Tulare 25 May (SDS). Little Blue Herons were at Antioch 26 Apr (4th Contra Costa record; Greg Scyphers) and Yolo Bypass W.A., Yolo 1 May (imm.; FS). Small numbers of Cattle Egrets were found in coastal areas through the period (m.oh.). Many pairs near Dixon 10 Apr (GoM) provided Solano's first nesting record, and 4 at Mono L. 29 May (GWP) provided a record count for Mono. Coastal White-faced Ihis 26 Mar-29 May in- cluded flocks of up to 60 birds in s. S.F Bay 6- 9 May (m.ob). Two pairs of California Condors in the Ventana Wilderness, Monterey hatched single chicks in late Apr-early May (fide DR). Os- preys 3 km e. of Dillard provided the first nest record for Sacramento (Dan Kopp, CCo). Nesting Bald Eagles were reported near Van Arsdale Dam, Potter Valley 6 May (Mendoci- no’s first confirmed nesting; /idc CEV), at La- guna de Santa Rosa, Sonoma (fide Stan Moore), at Davis Creek Res., Yolo 9 May OMHu), at Calaveras Res. 17 Mar-t- (Santa Clara’s 2nd confirmed nesting; Linda Kincaid, m.ob.), and at three locations in Monterey (fide Sal Lucido). A Northern Goshawk over Rayhouse Rd., Yolo 26 Apr QMHu) was late for a migrant. The Laguna de Santa Rosa, Sonoma Common Black-Hawk was seen again 20 Mar-r (Stan Moore), although the local landowner claimed it never left this winter. The only Broad-winged Hawk reported was one over the Marin Headlands, Marin 6 May (Tim Behr). Swainson’s Hawks near the coast included one at Tres Pinos, San Benito 23 Mar (CKf), 4 at Ed Levin C.P., Santa Clara 23 Mar-26 Apr (MMR et ah), 2 in Monterey, near Castroville 16 Apr (tBMMo, Gary Kittleson) and at Salinas 28 Apr (tTAm), near Eureka 30 Apr (8th Humboldt record; tIvS), and at Coy- ote Pt., San Mateo 24 May (RSTh). All 3 Crested Caracaras continued from winter. The Ferndale, Humboldt bird was last seen 28 Mar (m.ob.), the ad. bird in coastal n. Mon- terey was seen through 23 May (m.ob.), and the first-winter Monterey bird was apparently re-found at Moss Landing S.B. 1 Mar (tjean de Marignac, Robert Lea). Late Merlins in- cluded 2 in coastal Humboldt 13 May (RbF, JTz, DCo, KGR) and one in Half Moon Bay, San Mateo 15 May (AJ). Peregrine Falcons continue to expand in the Region; a nest with 3 young along the upper North Fork of the American R. 14 Apr+ (DeR) marked the first confirmed breeding record for Placer, where- as a nest in Vallejo 20 Mar+ QGE, RLCL, Ken Dexter) was Solano’s 3rd. In Santa Clara, a pair successfully fledged 2 young from last year’s salt pond nest, while a 2nd pair fledged 3 young from a tower only 1500 m away (MMR, FV, MJM, RGJ)! Another pair Hedged 3 young from a ledge on the 19th Hoor of San Jose’s City Hall (fide MMR), marking the first urban breeding for Santa Clara. A Virginia Rail at Wawona Meadows, Mariposa 10 Mar (EPi) was unseasonal. One of a pair of dancing Sandhill Cranes at Bridgeport 9 Apr, apparently the first Mono spring migrants since the 1950s, remained through the season QSL, KNN). SHOREBIRDS Two Black-bellied Plovers at the Loyalton S.T.P. 16 Apr QSL) were the first ever for Siena. Twelve Pacific Golden-Plovers reported from six counties included 5 from Shollenberger Park, Sono- ma 12 Mar-13 Apr (RS, AWgh), 3 wintering birds in Fresno and Kings 5 Mar-3 Apr (GaW, David Gaylor, JSy), the 2nd spring record for H.R.S. 8 Apr (RJR), and lingering migrants at Humboldt Bay, Humboldt 5 May (DCo, KGR et al.) and near Collinsville, Solano 10 May (Phil Gulley, RLCL). The Madera W.T.R hosted up to 2 Snowy Plovers 27-29 Mar (ph. GaW) and another 7-13 May (GaW) for just the 3rd and 4th records for Madera. Four American Avocets at the Shasta Valley W.A., Siskiyou (RE) were unexpected. Eighteen northbound Solitary Sandpipers in 12 counties were all one-day wonders within the narrow window 15-30 Apr (m.ob.). A Wandering Tattler at the outer edge of a Mountain View salt pond 7-14 May (ph. Kath- leen Henderson) was only the 2nd spring record for Santa Clara, although apparently 2 were there the same time last year as well. A Willet near Williams 7 May (RbE) was per- haps only the 3rd for Colusa. Late Lesser Yel- lowlegs included the 2nd May record for the n. C.V near Sutter Buttes, Sutter (SAG, LWC), the 3rd May record for H.R.S. 9 May (RJR), and 3 near Loleta, Humboldt 17 May (BS). A count of 4000 Whimbrels near Alpaugh, Tu- lare 31 Mar (SAL) doubled the maximum in our notebooks; notably the previous high of 2000 s. of Dinuba 27 Apr 1983 (RHG) was also in Tulare. A Siberian Whimbrel (sub- species variegatus) Hying northward past Pi- geon Pt., San Mateo 16 Apr (RSTh) was one of only about a half dozen ever recorded in the Region. Eleven Ruddy Turnstones at San Pablo Bay R.S. 5 May (Laura Look) was the largest group ever for Contra Costa. Surveys of the n. shore of Mono L. 29 May turned up 11 Sanderlings (GWP), a high count for Mono, especially in spring. A Humboldt Big Day pro- duced the only Semipahnated and Pectoral Sandpipers reported this season, at Humboldt Bay N.W.R. 30 Apr (TMcK, BS). An ad. Red- necked or Little Stint found nearby the same day (TMcK, BS), too distant to identify to species, was seen again brieHy the next day (KGR). The Rock Sandpiper along West Cliff '1 Spring 2007 followed an above-average winer for Horned Puffins in Monterey Bay and preceeded one of the largest summer invasions of Horned Puffins ever recorded in California. Early signs of the invasion came on 19 May, when four were found in and around Monterey Bay on a pelagic trip, including this bird off Hopkins Marine Station. Photograph by Don Roberson. 506 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS NORTHERN CALIFORNIA Following a good winter for Snowy Owls in California, this bird was on the South Spit of Humboidt Bay on 26 March 2007. Photograph by Kerry Ross. Dr. in Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz remained through 12 Apr (ph. SGe, Jean Harrison). A Stilt Sandpiper at the Merced N.W.R., Merced 22 Mar (PJM) likely wintered and was possi- bly the same individual found at this location 6 Mar 2006 (PJM, ADeM) and 6-14 Feb 2005 (LCh et al.). Continuing Ruffs lingered through 5 Mar at Sherman 1., Sacramento (ad.; m.ob.) and through 2 Mar in Alviso, Santa Clara (FV). A big northward push of Red Phalaropes was noted nearshore, with about 10,000 seen from Pt. Pinos, Monterey 12 May (MtB, RyT), 8700+ from Pigeon Pt., San Mateo 13 May (RSTh), and 15,600 at Drake’s Bay, Marin 23 May (RS); the only reports slightly inland were 2 to 4 at Hayward R.S. 27-31 May (RJR) and one in Richmond, Contra Costa 28 May-5 Jun (Cathy Bleier et al). JAEGERS THROUGH ALCIDS Jaegers were quite scarce, with only 3 reported; Pomarines were on Monterey Bay, Monterey 31 Mar (RgW, RT) and off Humboldt 6 Apr (KGR), and a Parasitic was at the n. jetty of Humboldt Bay, Humboldt 11 Mar (ScC). Rare in the Re- gion, Laughing Gulls were at Areata Marsh, Humboldt 8-10 Mar (Alexander Lamb, SWH, ph. RbF, ScC, GAB) and at the Big Sur R. mouth, Monterey 22 May (tGreg Frankfurter). It was a banner year for Franklin’s Gulls, with 99 reported in the Re- gion. The species was well represent- ed throughout the Region, with the largest numbers, as expected, in the northeast. A Mew Gull at Trinity L. 10-17 Mar QSL, JLx, FrO) was only the 2nd for Trinity. A probable Vega Gull was well photographed at Luc- chesi Park, Sonoma 10 Mar (ph. BLS, ph. E’WP, RS, m.ob.). Reports of Vega-type gulls are increasing, and it will be interesting to track the status of this taxon in North America s. of Alaska. Twenty-two Glaucous Gulls were reported, with several reported up to the end of May in Humboldt, Santa Cruz, and Monterey, which is quite late for the Region. The colony of Caspian Terns at the Salinas R. mouth, Monterey is now estimated to contain 500 birds (fide RF). An early Elegant Tern was at Zmudowski S.B., Monterey 28 Apr (TAm et al). A Re- gional record high count of 50+ Black Skimmers was at a Mountain View salt pond in Santa Clara 4 Apr (Larry Parmeter). On the late side, an Ancient Murrelet was off Monterey, Monterey 19 May (TAm, DR), and 2 were off Ft. Bragg, Mendocino 20 May (RLeV, m.ob.). Horned Puffins made the news in the Region. Over 50 were reported to us, with many not reported, as a number of birds were found dead on shore. Efforts are being made to compile a total for the Region, but that total will span the sum- mer season as well. DOVES THROUGH SOLITAIRE A Band-tailed Pigeon 6 Mar at Davis, Yolo was an unusual find for the C.V. floor QCS). First county records of Eurasian Col- lared-Doves were tallied 6 Apr at Nice, Lake QRW) and 12 May at Corning, Tehama (nesting pair; fide M. Rogner). Observers in nu- merous counties with previous records noted range expansions and an obvious increase in total numbers. A vagrant White- winged Dove was along the Pajaro R. near Pa- jaro, Monterey 1 May (DLSu). A Snowy Owl at the s. spit of Humboldt Bay, Humboldt 26 Mar-1 Apr provided the first county record since 1978 (Carol Wilson, ph. m.ob.). The species has been recorded in Humboldt on over 80 occasions, ac- counting for about two-thirds of all California records (fide JTz). Great Gray Owls in Fresno near the s. edge of the breeding range were at Musick Meadow 19 Apr and Swanson Meadow 3-24 May (Rodney Olson et al). The Great Gray which has apparently wintered near Camp- tonville, Yuba each of the past three winters was present 28 Mar-13 Apr Qan Evers, m.cb.). Mer- cy Hot Springs, Fresno has been a traditional site for wintering Long-eared Owls, but a count of 68 individuals 4 Mar may represent the largest congregation ever reported in California (BLS). An out-of-place Short-eared Owl at Twin Peaks 17 Apr provided a rare record for main- land S.F. OsC, HuC, ASH, PSar). Rare C.V. Northern Saw-whet Owls continued through 28 Mar at both Fair Oaks, Sacramento (DJo, m.ob.) and Ryer L, Solano (4; Raye Hansen). Black Swifts are rarely found in the C.V, so 2 on 4 May at Redding, Shasta QCS, BY, JSL, SAG) and 4 on 14 May at the Fremont Weir, Yolo (AEn) were noteworthy. Four Black Swifts flying northward over Wild Horse Ridge 17 May provided the first Napa record since 1959 (TMBe). Three White-throated Swifts 31 May at Trinidad, Humboldt were well n. of any known breeding stations (Melody Hamilton). Calliope Hummingbirds were reported widely and in higher numbers than is typical in the Re- gion’s lowlands, 30 Mar-17 May. Not a single Lewis’s Woodpecker was detected in Madera, this follow- ing a record-setting spring in 2006 in which thousands of birds were present (JideJND). A male Yellow- bellied Sapsucker at Millerton L. 1 1 Mar provided an overdue first coun- ty record for Madera (ph. Leonard Williams). Other Yellow-bellieds were at the Presidio, S.F. 3 Mar QsC) and at Ed Levin C.P., Santa Clara through 30 Mar (DvWb, m.ob.). Out-of-place Pileated Woodpeckers, a phenomenon almost unknown just a few years ago, were once again detected this season. A single bird at Pedro Pt. near Pacifica 22 Apr (W. Poinsot), the 2nd ever found along the outer coast of San Mateo, was outdone by 2 at Coyote Pt. 8 May (RSTh, AME), the first ever found in San Mateo near the shore of S.E Bay. An additional bird in the This Bell's Vireo at Hot Creek, Mono County, California on 28 May 2007 showed charac- ters of the nominate subspecies, such as a greenish back and yellowish underparts. Photograph by John Sterling. VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 507 NORTHERN CALIFORNIA This May produced the second and third spring records of Red-throated Pipit for California. The bird on the left was photographed at Crowley Lake, Mono County 4 May 2007 and is the first of this species found inland in the state in spring. The other was near Fort Dick, Del Norte County 8-12 (here 12) May and was one of two at this location. Photographs by Debbie House and Ron LeValley, respectively. Presidio 10 May (B. Corff) provided just the 2nd record for mainland S.F. A Least Fly- catcher made a rare spring appearance 8 May at outer Pt. Reyes (RS). A fine year for mi- grant Gray Flycatchers produced records of at least 15 individuals from the Regions low- lands, including a very early record 6-7 Apr at Vallejo, Solano QCS, JSL). An Eastern King- bird at Alturas 26 May (SCR) was one of few ever found in summer in Modoc, though the species is annual in adjacent Siskiyou' anoth- er individual was at outer Pt. Reyes 31 May-3 Jun (RS). Northern Shrikes included one at Hayfork, Trinity 10-13 Mar (FrO, JSL, JLx) and one in Potter Valley, Mendocino 18-25 Mar (ADeM, GEC, Kelly Austin, Phil Austin). A Bell’s Vireo at Long Valley 29 May was the 3rd ever found in Mono OCS). All 3 have been identihed as nominate bellii. An American Crow at Simis Ranch 18 Apr was a spring rar- ity for Mono (KNN). A Common Raven nest at Upper Bidwell Park, Chico 19 May provided a first nest record for Butte QHS). A pair of nest- ing Purple Martins near Rocklin 23 May-t (Dan Kopp, m.ob.) furnished the first breed- ing record for Placer since 1909 (fide EP)! Fif- teen nesting pairs of martins were tallied at Jones Valley, Shasta L., Shasta 25 May (Len Lindstrand), a significant tally for a species that is quite local in the Region. A male Moun- tain Bluebird made a rare coastal appearance at Half Moon Bay, San Mateo 6 Mar (R Couch). Similarly rare Townsend’s Solitaires were recorded at Mt. Davidson, S.F 26 Apr (BFi) and FI. 16 May (P.R.B.O., Jide Russ Bradley). THRASHERS THROUGH TANAGERS The only Gray Catbird report came from Pt. Reyes, Marin 30 May (Nick Whelan). Out-of- range Sage Thrashers included Mendocino’s 4th record in Ft. Bragg 2 May (DAJ); singles were in Yolo along Sand Creek Rd. 27 Apr (Sami LaRocca, Karen HochgraO, along White Rock Rd. in w. Mariposa 4 Mar (JCS, EP), and s. of Elk Grove, Sacramento 25 Apr (CCo). A high- light for the Region was a Red-throated Pipit near Crowley L., Mono 4 May (tKNN, JLD, ph., tDHo). Two more were near Ft. Dick, Del Norte 8-12 May (Lucas Brugge, ADB et al). An otherwise ho-hum warbler season was brightened by a singing male Golden-winged Warbler in Pacific Grove 22 Apr (tBill & Emmy Reese). If accepted by the C.B.R.C., this will be the first record for Monterey. We received only two reports of Tennessee War- blers: one from Vista Grande Canal, S.F. 26 Apr (BFi) and one from Pt. Reyes, Marin 31 May (RS). A Lucy’s Warbler at Coyote Pt. 29 Apr (tRSTh) provided a rare spring record for San Mateo. Five of our 7 Northern Parulas (3 in San Mateo and one each in Alameda, Hum- boldt, Marin, and FI.) were reported as singing males, and all were found after 12 May. Among the rarer warblers were Magnolias in Lee Vining Canyon, Mono 22 May (M. Lester) and Pt. Reyes, Marin 31 May-2 Jun (David Lewis); a Chestnut-sided at Pt. Reyes, Marin 28 May (RS); a male Prairie near Campbell Cove, Sonoma 21 May (LLu); and a Hooded at Pt. Reyes, Marin 22-23 May (Mark Butler, m.ob.). Of the dozen Palm Warblers, all but 2 were probably lingering from winter. The 2 likely migrants were at Pt. Joe, Monterey 27 Apr (OsJ, MtB) and at Coyote Pt., San Mateo 7 May (RSTh). At least 3 Black-and-white War- blers stayed over from winter, including 2 S.F birds found in Ferry Park and the Presidio, which were present until 13 (DSW) & 15 Apr (HuC), respectively. Another Black-and-white at Laguna Grande Park, Monterey 19 Mar Qudy West) was likely the same bird first found there 13 Jan. Black-and-white Warblers were also at Areata Marsh, Humboldt 16 Apr (KGR) and Gazos Cr., San Mateo 28 May (GrH). The American Redstart that wintered in Alice Street Community Garden, S.F. re- mained at least until 14 Mar (KAr, m.ob.). The only other American Redstart was a singing j male along Pescadero Cr., San Mateo 28 May | (RSTh). An Ovenbird was at Pt. Reyes, Marin j 30 May (Nick Whelan). A singing Northern Waterthrush along Stevens Cr., Santa Clara 1 i: May (MMR) was in the same area where at least 2 wintered. A Summer Tanager apparent- j ly returned 14 May to the same area near Col- fax, Placer (Larry Risser, m.ob.), where it ' spent last summer. The bird was present and l singing through the end of the period. A Sum- j mer Tanager in El Dorado Hills 12-14 Mar (ph. Karla Meadows) was El Dorado's first. Summer Tanagers were also at Pt. Reyes,. Marin 13 May (Bob Speckels) and near Oasis Ranch, Mono 26 May (DVP, DCo et al.). SPARROWS THROUGH FINCHES An American Tree Sparrow in Areata, Hum- boldt 3-5 Mar (Russ Namitz, RbF) was appar- ently a holdover from winter (fide JTz). A Clay-colored Sparrow 8 May at Coyote Pt. (RSTh) marked the first spring record for San Mateo. The Clay-colored that wintered at Bartlett C.P, Tulare was last seen 26 Mar (Tony Kurz). Clay-colored Sparrows were also at Mad River C.P., Humboldt 22-24 Mar Oherime Kellermann, KGR, DCo) and Corona Heights, S.F 20 Apr (Lew Ellingham, BFi, m.ob.). Brew- er’s Sparrows, normally a rather rare spring transient in the C.V, made quite a showing late Apr-early May. Local observers reported un- usually high numbers in Madera, Tulare, Sacra- mento, and Merced, with Madera reporting an unprecedented 20+ (fide JND). Sacramento, where even one is unusual, reported 6. Solano’s first spring record was s. of Dixon 7 May (EP). Another was near Loma Rica, Yuba 6 May (BDW), and also notable, though outside the 508 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS NORTHERN CALIFORNIA C.V, were 2 in Panoche Valley, San Benito 29 Apr (MtB, OsJ, RyT). Two Black-chinned Spar- rows singing in potential breeding habitat on Blue Ridge 12-19 May (UzW, ph. CLo, m.ob.) constituted Solano’s 3rd record. Many unsuc- cessful attempts to re-find the birds suggest that they were migrants. The Santa Cruz Mts. of Santa Clam and San Mateo held at least 9 Black-chinned Sparrows at four different loca- tions 17 May+. Black-throated Sparrows were widely reported, with a pair visiting a subur- ban feeder in Lincoln, Placer 12 May (TPat Boudreaux) and singles at two locations in Yuba: Beale A.EB. 20 Apr (Mike Bum- gartner) and Spenceville W.A. 28 Apr (Scott Hoppe). Black-throateds were also in Quincy, Plumas 25 May (BBg), El. 10- 20 May (RR.B.O.,^de Russ Bradley), and se. of Clio 29 Apr (Sierra’s 3rd record; Chris Collins). The Lark Bunting at Byron Hot Springs, Contra Costa 9 Mar (Dick Norton) was a winter holdover, but the male 23 May at Herbert Wetlands Prairie Preserve, Tulare (RH, ph. Gary Lindquist, JLt, SDS) was likely a rare C.V. late spring migrant. All 5 Swamp Sparrows (3 in Humboldt, one each in Marin and Mon-. terey) appeared to be lingering from win- ter. Among the 35 or so White-throated Sparrows that extended their visits into spring, the tardiest was found 12 May in Reichmuth Park, Sacramento (KKw). Three Golden-crowned Sparrows were present well into May: 21 May along Stevens Cr., Santa Clara (MMR), 23 May at Big Sur R. mouth, Monterey (b. B.S.O.L.), and 23 May s. of Elk Grove, Sacramento (CCo). A wintering Harris’s Sparrow was seen last 28 Mar in Areata, Humboldt (ScC). Of the 15 Rose-breasted Grosbeaks re- ported, all were coastal except for singles at Grasslands Park, Yolo 18 May (TEa), Chalfant Valley, Mono 15 May (A. Zdon), and McGee Canyon, Mono 18 May (C. Wooley). Notable Blue Grosbeak reports included Lassen’s 2nd at Eagle L. 18 Apr (Lew Oring) and the first record for Panoche Valley, San Benito 29 Apr (MtB, fide KW). An Indigo Bunting seen briefly on Pleasants Valley Rd. 17 Apr (AEn) was a 2nd for Solano. Our other 4 Indigos were all coastal (one each from Marin, EL, San Mateo, and Monterey). A singing male Bobolink at Monte Bello O.S.P. 29 May (GrH) furnished a first spring record for Santa Clara. Incremental range expansions were noted for Great-tailed Grackles in Calav- eras (Angels Camp), Modoc (Tulelake), and Plumas (Marble Hot Springs Rd.). Humboldt reported our only vagrant orioles: an Orchard Oriole present 10 Mar-16 Apr at Areata Marsh (RbF, ph. KGR, TMcK, m.ob.) and an ad. male Baltimore Oriole in Eureka 14 Mar (BS). A Common Redpoll in Et. Bragg 5-10 Mar (Maria Wetzel, ph. MMtt, tGEC, ph. tRJK, tCEV, m.ob.) was a first for Mendocino and only the 7th occurrence of the species in the state. Out of respect for the wishes of the landowner, the presence of this bird was not widely communicated. Lawrence’s Goldfinch- es enjoyed a remarkable season throughout the Region. Reports from local observers not- ed unusually high numbers and/or birds in new locations from Trinity, Tehama, Glenn, Butte, Yuba, Sacramento, Contra Costa, Alame- da, Santa Clara, and Madera. Some suggested that unusually wet springs in 2005 and 2006 may have produced an abundance of fiddle- neck (Amsinckia spp.), a major food source for Lawrence’s Goldfinches. Cited observers (county coordinators in bold- face): Roger Adamson (Yolo), Tim Amaral, Kumaran Arul, Alan Baldridge (AB), Alan D. Barron (ADB) (Del Norte), Bob Battigan, Mur- ray Berner (Napa), Gary Bloomfield, William G. Bousman (Santa Clara), Matthew Brady, Ray Bruun, Scott Carey, George E. Chaniot, Les Chibana, Josiah Clark, Daryl Coldren, Luke W. Cole (Kings), Chris Conard (CCo) (Sacramento and Yolo), Hugh Cotter, Jeff N. Davis (Madera), A1 DeMartini, Bruce E. Deuel (n. C.V counties), Jon L. Dunn, Todd Easterla, Mark W. Eaton (San Francisco), Alan M. Eis- ner, Ray Ekstrom (Siskiyou), Andrew Engilis, Jules G. Evens, Brian Fitch, Rick Fournier (RE), Rob Fowler (RbF), James H. Gain (Stanislaus), Ron H. Gerstenberg, Steve A. Glover (Contra Costa), Rob Hansen, Stanley W. Harris, Garth Harwood, Floyd Hayes, Bill Hill, Alan S. Hopkins, Debbie House, Joan M. Humphrey, John E. Hunter (Trinity), Alvaro Jaramillo, Richard G. Jeffers, David Jensen, David Johnson, Oscar Johnson, Shearwa- ter Journeys, Robert J. Keiffer (Mendoci- no), Clay Kempf, Keith Kwan, Stephen A. Layman, Robin L. C. Leong (Solnno), Ron LeValley, Leslie Lieurance, John Lockhart, Jim Lomax, Calvin Lou (CLo), John S. Luther, Michael J. Mammoser, Blake Matheson, Matthew A. Matthiessen, J. Mac McCormick (Plumas and Sierra), Bryan J. McIntosh, Tristan McKee, Peter J. Metropulos (San Mateo), Brian Mori, Gordon Murphy, Kristie N. Nelson (Mono), Frances Oliver, Gary W. Page (GWP) Ed Pandolfino (Placer), Eric Pilotte, Gary W. Potter (Fresno), Jude C. Power (Humboldt), Eric Preston (EWP), Robert J. Richmond (Alameda), Don Roberson (Monterey), Michael M. Rogers, Kerry G. Ross, Stephen C. Rottenborn, Ruth A. Rudesill (Sonoma), Ivan Samuels, Paul Saraceni, Barry Sauppe, Jeff Seay, Jim H. Snowden, Rich Stallcup, John C. Sterling (Modoc, Alpine, and Calaveras), Fritz Steurer, Grace Steurer, Tim Steurer (Amador and El Dorado), Brad Stovall (Lassen), David L. Suddjian (Santa Cruz), Brian L. Sullivan, Steven D. Summers (Tulare), Richard Ternullo, Ryan Terrill (Marin), Ronald S. Thorn, James R. Tietz (Humboldt and FL), Steve Umland (Tuolumne), Frank Vanslager, Chuck E. Vaughn, Kent Van Vuren (Merced and San Benito), David Vander Pluym (Mari- posa), Dave Weber, Jerry R. White (Lake), Alan Wight, Denise S. Wight, Brian D. C. Williams (Nevada), Uzelle Williams, Roger Wolf, Gary Woods, Bob & Carol Yutzy (Shas- ta). Many more observers are not specifically cited; all are appreciated. O Scott B. Terrill, H.T. Harvey & Associates 3150 Almaden Expressway, Suite 145 San Jose, California 95118, (sterrill(S)harveyecology.com) Michael M. Rogers, 499 Novato Avenue Sunnyvale, California 94086, (m.m.rogersiacomcast.net) Steven A. Glover, 6526 Conestoga Lane Dublin, California 94568, (countylines@sbcglobaLnet) Ed Pandolfino, 5530 Delrose Court Carmichael, California 95608, (erpfromcaiaaoLcom) Backyard feeders in Fort Bragg, Mendocino County, California held this Common Redpoll's attention from 5 (here) through 10 March 2007, marking the farthest south this species has ventured into California. Photograph by Matthew Matthiessen. VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 509 •9 Southern California ■^Oxnard Malibu \ •Los Angeles Mofongo Valley Blythe*] V ' San Diego ci Pt.LomaM El Centro. ^ Tijuana R. Valley 't — ' Guy AAcCaskie Kimball L, Garrett The end of the spring season also coin- cided with then end of the driest fall- through-spring period on record for many portions of the Region. The impacts on migrant and breeding landbirds were likely extensive. For many birders, the most notice- able effect was some spectacular concentra- tions of migrants at well-watered oases in the deserts. Migration through well-planted parks and residential areas on the coastal slope was also impressive, most notably for Calliope Hummingbirds, which were far more numer- ous than usual. The drought may also have had a role in greater numbers than normal of “interior” species such as Brewer’s Sparrows and Yellow-headed Blackbirds along the coast. Many common western migrants also straggled late into May or even early June, perhaps a consequence of poorer feeding con- ditions on migration. An interesting assortment of northern al- cids during the period continued into June (more to come in the Summer Season report) . Three very rare shorebirds late in the period at China Lake in extreme northeastern Kern County included California’s long-awaited first Wood Sandpiper. Abbreviations: C.L. (China Lake Naval Air Weapons Station, extreme ne. Kent); FC.R. (Furnace Creek Ranch, Death Valley N.R, Inyo)', G.H.P. (Galileo Hill Park, extreme e. Kern); N.E.S.S. (n. end of the Salton Sea, Riverside); PP (Piute Ponds on Edwards Air Eorce Base, ne. Los Angeles); S.C.R.E. (Santa Clara River Estuary, near Ventura, Ventura); S.E.S.S. (s. end of the Salton Sea, Imperial); S.EK.R.P. (South Fork Kern River Preserve, near Weldon, Kem). Museum collections ab- breviated in the text are: LACM (Natural His- tory Museum of Los Angeles County) and SDNHM (San Diego Natural History Muse- um). Because most rarities in s. California are seen by multiple observers, only the observ- er(s) initially finding and/or identifying the bird are included. Documentation for species on the California B.R.C. (C.B.R.C.) review list (see ) is forwarded to the C.B.R.C. Secretary and archived at the Western Foundation of Vertebrate Zoology in Camarillo. WATERFOWL THROUGH SPOONBILLS The only Fulvous Whistling-Duck was one at S.E.S.S. 17 Apr (KLG) and 1 Jun (GMcC). About 25 Greater White-fronted Geese flying northward off Malibu, Los Angeles 27 May (DSC) were exceptionally late for migrants. A flock of 43 Brant in El Monte, Los Angeles 29 Apr (MCL) was along the presumed “path” followed by this species when migrating from the Gulf of California through the Salton Sink to the Pacific Coast each spring; a single bird at Owens L., Inyo 18 Mar (SLS) was the only one reported inland away from this “path.” A wintering Eurasian Wigeon in Goleta, Santa Barbara remained through the late date of 20 Apr QMG)- Single male Eurasian Teal were in Goleta 17 Mar (NAL) and Los Osos, San Luis Obispo 3 Mar-8 Apr (TME). A Harlequin Duck at Cayucos, San Luis Obispo 8-17 May (TME) was the only one reported. Seventeen Surf Scoters on Klondike L. near Big Pine, Inyo, along with 5 more on nearby Tinemaha Res. 20 Apr (T&JH), was an amazing number for this area; elsewhere inland, away from the Salton Sea, one was at Owens L., Inyo 12 May-3 Jun (SLS), and 2 were in Baker, San Bernardino 20 Apr OEP). Two White-winged Scoters on the Salton Sea at North Shore, Riverside 19 Apr (BMi) were inland; a flock of 35 on Morro Bay, Sun Luis Obispo 24 Mar (TME) was a large number for S. California. The latest of the wintering Black Scoters were 2 at Pt. Mugu, Ventura through 27 Mar (PGR) and one at San Simeon 2 Jun (MLS). A Long- tailed Duck at S.E.S.S. 8 May-13 Jun (EM) The strongly banded tail shows well on this first-summer Mississippi Kite, photographed on the second day of its 26 May through 4 June 2007 stay at the South Coast Botanical Garden on the Palos Verdes Peninsula, Los Angeles County, California. Photograph by Larry Sansone. was inland, where unexpected; one in Ventu- ra 13 Apr-7 May (KR) and a wintering bird in El Segundo, Los Angeles through 29 Apr (MSanM) were on the coast. Late Red-necked Grebes were in Santa Bar- bara 20-21 Apr (JR) and on Morro Bay 6 May (LT). A Manx Shearwater 13 km off Carpinte- ria 2 Mar (WTF) provided the 2nd record for Santa Barbara, and another was seen from Pt. Dume, Los Angeles 3 Mar (KLG). Unexpected were 4 Pork-tailed Storm-Petrels in San Diego, with one alive 5 km inland near Encinitas 28 Mar (SD’V; *SDNHM), and dead birds on the beach in Coronado 11 & 27 Apr (MS, LH; *SDNHM), and near La Jolla 4 May (AR; *SDNHM), along with single birds farther n. off Ventura 16 Apr OSF) and at Morro Bay 22 Mar (RO). An ad. Brown Booby was off La Jol- la 28 May (TRS, EA); considering the number These two White-rumped Sandpipers at the China Lake Naval Air Weapons Station, Kern County, California 23 May 2007 were, remarkably, the third and fourth to be found at this location. Photograph by Bob Steele. 510 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA ii I it (GMcC, JL, EM), one at N.E.S.S. 17 May OSF), and 2 at C.L. 28-30 Apr (AH, AEK); normally only one or 2 are found each spring. An American Oystercatcher in La Jolla 20 May (AB) was probably the same bird present here during the winter, and another was on Anacapa I. 10 Mar (RAH). A Wood Sandpiper photographed at C.L. 22-23 May (SLS, BS) establishes the first record for California; one at Masset in British Columbia 3-9 Nov 1994 (Birders Journal 3; 257-260) is the only other to be found on the Pacific coast s. of Alaska. A Solitary Sandpiper near Calipatria, Imperial 4 Apr (GMcC) was the earliest of the nearly 30 reported this spring. A late Hudsonian Godwit at C.L. 7-8 Jun (SLS) was only the 4th to be found in this Region in spring. A Black Turnstone, rare in- land, was at S.E.S.S. 5 May QL)- An impres- sive 800 Surlbirds were 2-3 km upstream from the mouth of Ballona Cr. in Playa del Rey, Los Angeles 8 Apr (KGL). Seven Sander- lings in Inyo between 15 Apr and 20 May and 2 in Lancaster 5 May (KLG) were the only ones reported inland away from the Salton Sea. The only Semipalmated Sandpiper was one in Goleta 27 Apr (NAL). Two White- rumped Sandpipers at C.L. 23 May (GMcC) provided the 14th spring record for California and the first involving more than a single bird. Single Baird’s Sandpipers in Imperial Beach 11 Mar (MS), near Imperial, Imperial 19 Mar (GMcC), and at PR 3 Apr (MSanM) were early spring migrants. A Long-tailed Jaeger, rare in spring, was at the Cortez Bank sw. of San Clemente 1. 17 Apr OSF)- At least 3 Laughing Gulls were found along the coast in San Diego during the period. Franklin’s Gulls moving through the Region were earlier and in far larger Seven Parakeet Auklets were encountered about 73 kilometers west-southwest of San Nicolas Island during the Los Angeles Audubon Society's 21 April 2007 pelagic boat trip to deep waters off Southern California. Photograph by Glen Tepke. numbers than expected, with the earliest be- ing single birds at Mystic Lake, Riverside 1 1 Mar (CMcG) and at S.E.S.S. 18 Mar (HD); numbers at S.E.S.S. increased to an unprece- dented 175 on 13 Apr (GMcC), and 48 were still at N.E.S.S. 17 May (MJB, JSF); farther n., over 85 were reported after mid-Apr, includ- This Baird's Sandpiper was in Imperial Beach, San Diego County, California on the exceptionally early date of 11 March 2007. Photographs by Matt Sadowski. now present on the nearby Los Coronados Is., more can be expected. A Brown Pelican at the Carrizo Plain, San Luis Obispo 23 Apr (MLS) was far inland and at an unexpected time of the year. The only Little Blue Heron found away from coastal San Diego was an ad. at Hansen Dam, Los Angeles 9 May (KLG). A Tricolored This first-cycle Black-headed Gull was with migrant Bona- parte's Gulls in Goleta, Santa Barbara County, California on 20 April 2007. Photograph by Wes T. Fritz. Heron at the Tijuana R. mouth, San Diego 10 May (RTP) was probably the bird present dur- ing the winter; one at S.E.S.S. 3 May (EM) and 3 Jun (HBK) was inland. At least 5 Red- dish Egrets were on the coast of San Diego and Orange during the period; inland, single ads. were seen at S.E.S.S. 30 Apr (DM) and 20 May OSF). A continuing pair of Yellow-crowned Night-Herons in Imperial Beach, San Diego was attending a nest in May (GMcC); one, paired with a Black-crowned Night-Heron, was attending 2 hybrid young at a nest on North Island Naval Air Station, San Diego in May (MM), and a subad. was at Point Mugu, Ventura 17-23 May (MR). A Glossy Ibis was well photographed in the San Bernardino por- tion of the Prado Basin 3-8 Apr QEP), with a 2nd present 5-11 Apr QEP). The 2 Roseate Spoonbills at S.E.S.S. through Feb were joined by a 3rd on 17 Mar (JC) and remained through 10 May (GMcC). HAWKS THROUGH PUFFINS A first-summer Mississippi Kite, a casual stray to coastal California, was on the Palos Verdes Peninsula, Los Angeles 26 May-4 Jun (SWo, KGL), and another was near San Mar- cos Pass, Santa Barbara 27 May (WC). Hawk- watchers counted 2419 Swainson’s Hawks passing northward at Borrego Springs, San Diego 2 Feb-30 Apr, with an impressive 1365 on 20 Mar (PJ); elsewhere, far more than nor- mal were seen, particularly in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara in Apr. A Zone-tailed Hawk near Norco, Riverside 5-7 May (HBK, JFG) and another near Borrego Springs 21 Apr (SES) appeared to be migrants. A late- staying Merlin remained in Coronado through 30 Apr (MJB). Flocks of 82 and 88 Sandhill Cranes near In- dependence 24 Apr OM) were unprecedented for Inyo. Three Pacific Gold- en-Plovers at Seal Beach, Orange 28 Apr (TAB), about 15 on San Clemente 1. through 16 Apr QEB), 2 at the Tijua- na R. mouth through 24 Mar (MJB), and one in Del Mar, San Diego 24 Mar (DH) were the latest of the wintering birds; a migrant at C.L. 9 May (SLS) was only the 3rd ever in Kern. Eight American Golden- Plovers were reported in the e. portion of the Region, with single birds at S.E.S.S. 18 Apr QP) and 3 May (GMcC), 3 there 10-18 May VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 511 SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA for the San Joaquin Valley. A Greater Pewee in Griffith Park, Los An- geles 6-15 Apr (DSC) was almost certainly the same bird present at the same spot in Apr 2006 (and likely wintering both years). A Willow Flycatcher e. of Lancaster, Los Ange- les 29 Apr (TMcG, MSanM) was one of the earliest arrivals in recent years in the Region. A Dusky Flycatcher near El Centro, Imperial 7-14 Apr (KZK, GMcC) was an early date for a rare migrant in the Salton Sink. Unprece- dented were 2 late spring Eastern Phoebes, one in Twentynine Palms, San Bernardino 8- 9 May (AEK) and one in Newhall, Los Ange- les 13 May (MSanM); most California records fall from Oct-Mar. A Brown-crested Flycatcher at Baker Meadow, Big Pine, Inyo on 12 May (T&JH) was away from known breeding localities. Wintering Tropical King- birds remained as late as 1 May in Santa Bar- bara (PAG) and 2 May in Long Beach (KSG); one in Coronado, San Diego 22 May (MJB) was a presumed spring vagrant. Eastern Kingbirds were found in Goleta 30 May (DMC), Zzyzx, San Bernardino 26 May (HBK, BMo), and EC.R. 2 Jun (V&GW). Va- grant Scissor-tailed Flycatchers were on San Still a rarity in California, this Yellow-throated Warbler stopped on 6 May 2007 at a small desert oasis near the Hayfieid Pumping Station, Riverside County. Photograph by Julian P. Donahue. Vagrant Palm Warblers are more numerous on the coast than inland in California, especially in spring, so this one at Morongo Valley, San Bernardino County on 6 May 2007 came as a surprise. Photograph by Dave Furseth. This male Calliope Hummingbird in Ventura, Ventura County, California on 20 April 2007 was one of many found along the coast of Southern Califor- nia this spring. Photograph by Robert McMorran. rare inland, were at Salton City, Im- perial 18 Apr (BKS). Up to 4 Least Terns were inland at S.E.S.S. 3 May-t- (GMcC), and another was in the Riverside portion of the Prado Basin 30 May OEP)- A Pigeon Guillemot in La Jolla 22 May- 14 Jun (SWa) was at the extreme s. limit of the species’ known range. Seventeen Marbled Murrelets at Cayucos 8 May (TME) was a high number for this far s., and one 16 km off Ventura 24 Mar (OJ) was even farther south. Seven Parakeet Auklets about 70 km w.- sw. of San Nicolas 1. 21 Apr (OJ) were in an area where this species has been encountered on five previous occa- sions. Dead Horned Puffins on the beach in Oxnard 22 May (RS) and at the Tijuana R. mouth 3 May (RTP; *SDNHM) were un- doubtedly associated with the influx and die- off to the north; the latter establishes one of the southernmost records for the species (Western Birds 16: 99-102). This young male Hairy Woodpecker, with its head protrud- ing from a nest cavity in Bakersfield, Kern County, California on 20 April 2007, provides the first documentation of the species breeding in the San Joaquin Valley. Photograph by Ken and Brenda Kyle. ing 18 near Lancaster, Los Angeles 18 May (MSanM) and 20 at Owens L., Inyo at the end of the period (SLS), and an additional 8 were along the coast. An ad. Little Gull, rare in California, was at Playa del Rey 3 Mar (KGL). A first-cycle Black-headed Gull in Goleta 20 Apr (WTE) was the 9th to be found in S. California but the 5th in Santa Barbara. Inland, an ad. Heermann’s Gull was associating with nesting Caspian Terns at S.E.S.S. 19 Mar-r (GMcC), and a first-cycle bird was there 8 Apr (ST). A first-cycle Less- er Black-backed Gull remained at S.E.S.S. 8- 25 Apr (GMcC), establishing the latest date for this species in California. At least 7 Glau- cous Gulls were along the coast, with the lat- est being one in Oxnard, Ventura 16 May (RS), and another was inland at S.E.S.S. 17- 25 Apr (KLG). A Sabine’s Gull was on the coast in San Diego 15 Apr (MS), and over 1000 were encountered to the w.-sw. of San Nicolas 1. 21 Apr OSh)- Three Elegant Terns, DOVES THROUGH THRASHERS Three White-winged Doves on the coast of San Diego in May was about average. Single Lesser Nighthawks at Torrey Pines S.P, San Diego 11 Mar (SES) and in Goleta 18 Mar (JH) were be- lieved to be early migrants, and another in Arroyo Grande, San Luis Obispo 8 May (BKS) was in an area where considered casual. A Common Poorwill in El Cen- tro 22 May (DRW) was in an area where few have been recorded. A Black Swift at San Simeon 21 Apr (MLS) was un- usually early, with most moving through the Region in early May, as indicated by such sightings as 17 over Chula Vista, San Diego 6 May (MS). Well above-average num- bers of Calliope Hummingbirds were in the coastal lowlands and foothills from late Mar into May, as indicated by at least 16 reported in San Luis Obispo 29 Mar-8 May, 51 in Santa Barbara 14 Apr-20 May, 13 in Ventura 17 Apr-1 May, over 30 in Los Angeles 29 Mar-7 May, and unprecedented numbers in Orange and San Diego. Single male Broad-tailed Hum- mingbirds, most unusual on the coast, were photographed in Goleta 5 May (HPR) and Va- lencia, Los Angeles 15 Apr (RMcM). A pair of Hairy Woodpeckers found excavating a hole along the Kern R. in Bakersfield, Kern on 6 Mar successfully fledged young in early May (K&BK), providing the first nesting record I ! 512 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA A few Ovenbirds are found in the eastern half of the Southern California region each spring, with this one in El Centro, Imperial County found on 1 6 May 2007. Photo- graph by Kenneth 1. Kurland. Clemente I. 19 May (MRS) and Zzyzx 27 May (MT); another at Twentynine Palms 6 May+ (DE) was eventually seen constructing a nest, perhaps paired with one of the local Western Kingbirds. The only Red-eyed Vireo reported was at Mesquite Springs, Inyo 26 May (AH); this species has greatly de- clined as a vagrant in the Region. Purple Martins arrived at breed- ing sites at Atascadero, San Luis Obispo by 23 Mar (MLS); 25+ mi- grants of this declining species were noted elsewhere on the coastal slope, and one was at Wiest L., n. of Brawley Imperial 13 May (BMi). Tree Swallows continue to reclaim former breed- ing areas, with documented nest- ings in Apr and May at Goleta (MJK), Big Tujunga Wash, Los Angeles (KLG), and Orange, Or- ange (DRW). Quite out of place, and several kilometers from nearest breeding habitat, was a Cactus Wren in a busy container port in Los Ange- les Harbor 7 May (LRH). Up to 8 singing Winter Wrens at Montana de Oro, San Luis Obispo 5-26 May (AFS, JSR) were at the s. end of the species’ coastal breeding range. Late Mountain Bluebirds from last winter’s movement were on San Clemente 1. 28 Apr QEB) and at G.H.P. 27 Apr-6 May (TEW, LLA). Late Varied Thrushes were in El Centro on 7 Apr (KZK), on San Clemente 1. 26 Apr and 16 May (PET, CLD). A Gray Catbird was in Jawbone Canyon, Kem 29 May (DV). Bendire’s Thrash- ers at Clark Dry Lake in the Borrego Valley, San Diego on 18 Mar QEB) and 20 Apr (EK) were in an area where the species is quite rare. WARBLERS THROUGH FINCHES The only spring vagrant Tennessee Warblers were singles in Palos Verdes 28 Apr (KGL), Goleta 12 May (SG), Los Osos, San Luis Obispo 20 May QSR), and San Clemente 1. 29 May (NNJ). A Virginia’s Warbler in Goleta 3 May (PAG) was only the 2nd to be found in spring in Santa Barbara’ one at Playa de! Rey 10 Mar-1 Apr (KGL) had probably wintered locally. A Lucy’s Warbler in Borrego Springs 21 Mar (RT) had ar- rived at the w. end of the species’ breeding range. In addition to known wintering birds and one at Oceano 4-5 Mar (RHZ) that un- doubtedly wintered locally, only 5 Northern Parulas were found along the coastal slope 4 May-3 Jun; another 10+ were found on the deserts, including Inyo's earliest ever at China Ranch 21 Apr QEP). The only Chestnut-sided Warblers were at Sage Flat Rd. s. of Olancha, Inyo 1 Jun (C&LL), G.H.P. 3 Jun (TEW, LLA), and Baker, San Bernardino 5 Jun (AEK). Mag- nolia Warblers were at Montana de Oro 26 May OSR) and San Clemente 1. 30 May QEB) and inland at Bishop 23 May O&DP) and G.H.P. 3 Jun (TEW, LLA). Townsend’s War- blers in San Dimas, Los Angeles 1 Jun (AL) and Santa Catalina I. 3 Jun (RH) and a Hermit Warbler in Rowland Heights, Los Angeles 1 Jun (AL) exemplified a spring in which many straggling w. migrants were noted later than usual in both coastal and desert regions. Yel- low-throated Warblers were near Hayfield Pumping Station, Riverside 6 May OPD), at Hansen Dam 12-13 May (KLG), and 11 km off Channel Islands Harbor, Ventura 19 May (WTF); the first 2, at least, were of the ex- pected subspecies albilora. An amazing 4 singing male Pine Warblers were found, with one in Costa Mesa 4-8 Apr (BH), 2 at differ- ent parks in Chula Vista, San Diego 5-16 Apr and 6-23 Apr (MS), and one in Orange 15-21 Apr (HPR); most or all of these may have win- tered, being in areas that received little cover- age in winter. A Palm Warbler on San Clemente 1. 11 Mar (SWS) undoubtedly win- tered locally, but migrants were at EC.R. 3 May (C&RH), Morongo Valley 6 May (DP), and in the Blair Valley, San Diego 12 May (RT). A singing Bay-breasted Warbler in Huntington Beach 26- 28 May QEP) established only the 2nd spring record for Orange. Blackpoll Warblers were at S.EK.R.P 23 May (TB) and EC.R. 28 May (TEW, LLA). In addition to Black-and-white Warblers known or suspected to have wintered locally, at least 4 migrants were on the coastal slope and a dozen more on the deserts during the period. Six American Redstarts were along the coast 5-29 May, with another 9 on the n. deserts in May and early Jun. Prothonotary Warblers were in Victorville, San Bernardi- no 16 May (SJM), Lancaster, Los Angeles 18 May (VB; *LACM), in the Amargosa Canyon, Inyo 18 May (CMcC), and at EC.R. 27-28 May (MB). A good showing of Ovenbirds included 6 along the coast 3-29 May and another 10 on the deserts 15 May+. The 8 Northern Waterthrushes encoun- tered 3 May+ were divided equal- ly between the coast and n. deserts; one near Wister at S.E.S.S. 7 Apr (RF) was quite early and likely wintered locally. The period’s only Kentucky Warbler was at China Ranch 20 May (M&NF). Hooded War- blers were on Pt. Loma 25-28 May (DA) and San Clemente I. 27 May QEB) and in the in- terior at Twentynine Palms 17 May (TAB) and China Ranch 30 May (C&LL). A Painted Red- Although Clay-colored Sparrows are rare but regular fall migrants and winter visitors to Califor- nia, few are found in spring, so this one in the Tijuana River Valley, San Diego County IS May 2007 was unexpected. Photograph by Matt Sadowski. VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 513 SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA This lost Nelson's Sharp-tailed Sparrow at Mission Bay in San Diego, San Diego County, California on 20 May 2007 was away from the salt marshes the species inhabits in winter and was found on an exceptionally late date. Photograph byMattSadowski. start at Agua Duke Cr. in the Laguna Mts., San Diego 6 May-i- (DH) was at a known breeding locality. Two female Hepatic Tan- agers at Horsethief Spring, San Bernardino 26 May and another at nearby Pachalka Spring the same day (TAB, SJM) were outside of breeding habitat but in the e. desert ranges where a few nest. Ten Clay-colored Sparrows through the period in the Region included some that may have wintered locally. Brewers Sparrows were reported more widely than normal on the coastal slope in Apr and early May. A singing Brewer’s Sparrow x Black-chinned Sparrow hybrid was in the Cuyamaca Mts., San Diego 19 May-9 Jun (PU; details in press in Western Birds). Black-chinned Sparrows in unexpect- ed localities included up to 3 w. of Seeley, Im- perial 18-19 Apr (TC) and one in Goleta 15 May (HPR). Four Black-throated Sparrows along the coast 9-29 Apr was about normal. At least 8 singing male Grasshopper Spar- rows were on San Clemente 1. during the pe- riod (MRS). A Nelson’s Sharp-tailed Sparrow at Mission Bay, San Diego 20 May (MJB, MS) represented an unusual occurrence of a spring vagrant away from saltmarsh winter- ing habitat. The only Lark Buntings were sin- gles at Clark Dry L. 11 Apr OP) and Inde- pendence 26 Apr (ET). A singing Swamp Sparrow at G.H.P. 7-10 Jun (KSG) was re- markably late. The latest White-throated Sparrow reported was 21 May at China Ranch (M&NF). Three Chestnut-collared Longspurs in Independence 8-22 Apr (RHu) were quite late. A Lapland Longspur in Im- perial Beach 5-10 Mar (MBS) had not been reported during the winter. A bumper crop of Rose-breasted Grosbeaks included 27 in coastal counties 13 May-1 Jun and another 25 on the deserts 7 May-5 Jun; males found in coastal Santa Barbara 10-21 Mar (PP) and 18 Mar (RM) had likely win- tered locally, and one in Bishop 11-14 Apr (BT) was exceptionally early for the n. deserts. A very early Black-headed Grosbeak was at Pt. Loma 19 Mar (RF). Seven Indigo Buntings were in coastal counties 18 May-3 Jun, and another 19+ were on the deserts 3 May-1 Jun. A male Painted Bunting was at Deep Springs, Inyo 23-24 May (JI). A Dickeis- sel at China Ranch 23 Mar (T&JH) was so early that local wintering was suspected; an- other was at 2538 m elevation near Aspendell, Inyo 16 May (JZ). Up to 3 Bobolinks were at FC.R. 25-28 May (LLA, TEW et ah), with another at In- dependence 3 Jun (SLS) and 2 different indi- viduals at C.L. 31 May and 2 Jun (SLS, AH). Many observers commented on the greater- than-usual numbers of Yellow-headed Black- birds along the coast in Apr and early May. A Tricolored Blackbid near Calipatria 20 May OSF, TMcG) was in the Salton Sink, where very rare. Male and female Baltimore Orioles in Goleta 7 Mar QEL) were wintering locally; other vagrants were at Pt. Loma 28 May (GS) and Huntington Beach 1 Jun (BED), along with 3 on the n. deserts 13-29 May. A total of 3 Scott’s Orioles made it out to San Clemente 1. 25 Mar-28 May QEB). A Pine Siskin on San Clemente 1. 8 May QEB) was unusual in spring, especially after a winter with no low- land flight in the Region. Cited observers (county coordinators in bold- face): Don Adams, Eitan Altman, Liga L. Auzins, Ted Beedy Vern Benhart, Tom A. Ben- son, Mark J. Billings, Andy Boyce, James E. Bradley, Matt Brady, Wayne Chapman, David M. Compton (Santa Barbara), Daniel S. Coop- er, Travis Cooper, John Coveney, Clem L. Dabrowski, Henry Detwiler, Susan D’Vincent, Tom M. Edell (San Luis Obispo), David Ellsworth, Jon S. Feenstra, Rob Fowler, Mary & Nick Freeman (M&NF), Wes T. Fritz, David Furseth, Peter A. Gaede, Kimball L. Garrett (Los Angeles), Steve Gaulin, Karen S. Gilbert, James M. Greaves, John F. Green (Riverside), Robert A. Hamilton, Rob Hansen, Jeff Hanson, Beverly Hargrove, Loren R. Hays, Tom & Jo Heindel (Inyo), Laura Hofsteen, David Holway, Chris & Rosie Howard (C&RH), Andrew Howe, Robert Hudson, John Ivanov, Oscar Johnson (Ventura), Naira N. Johnston, Paul Jorgensen, Eric Kallen, Melissa J. Kelly, Howard B. King, Alexander E. Koonce (San Bernardino), Ken & Brenda Kyle, Kevin G. Lar- son, Andrew Lee, Joan E, Lentz, Nick A. Letha- by, Cindy & Les Lieurance (C&LL), Jim Lo- max, Michael C. Long, Jim Matteson, Dan Maxwell, Chris McCreedy Guy McCaskie (Im- perial), Chet McGaugh, Todd McGrath, Robert McMorran, Bob Miller (BMi), Roderich Moess- ner, Marie Molloy Bill Moramarco (BMo), Eliz- abeth Morgan, Stephen J. Myers, Thomas My- ers, Regena Orr, Pat Park, Robert T. Patton, David Pereksta, James E. Pike, John Puschock, Hugh P Ranson, Amadeo Rea, Kay Regester, Paul G. Rosso, Jim S. Royer, Martin Ruane, Joseph Ruggeri, Matt Sadowski, Mike San Miguel, Brad K. Schram, Alan E Schmierer, Matthew R. Sileo, Greg Slawson, Maggie L. Smith, Reed Smith, Susan E. Smith, Trent R. Stanley, Bob Steele, Susan L. Steele, Mary Beth Stowe, Sam W. Stuart, Linda Tanner, Phil E. Taylor, Robert Theriault, Ed Thomas, Bob Toth, Steve Tucker, Mike Tyner, Philip Unitt, David Vander Pluym, Stanley Walens (SWa), Douglas R. Willick (Orange), John C. Wilson (Kem), Steve Wolfe (SWo), Vicki & Gerry Wolfe (V&GW), Tom E. Wurster, Roger H. Zachary, Jerry Zatorski. An additional 60+ ob- servers who could not be individually ac- knowledged submitted reports this season; all have our thanks. O Guy McCaskie, 954 Grove Avenue Imperial Beach, California 91932, (guymcc@pacbell.net) Kimball L. Garrett Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County 900 Exposition Boulevard, Los Angeles, California 90007 (kgarrett@nhm.org) 514 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS Baja California Peninsula Ensenada Roberto Carmona Gorgonio Ruiz-Campos It was generally a lackluster season, but there was little coverage except in the Cape District early. The Cory’s Shearwater did return to Islas Los Coronados for another year, reintroduced California Condors nested in Mexico for the first time, and apparently wintering Long-tailed Jaegers were again found in the southern Gulf of California. Abbreviations: C.P.G.P. (Cerro Prieto geot- hermal ponds); E.S.J. (Estero San Jose, San Jose del Cabo). WATERFOWL THROUGH JAEGERS A Ross’s Goose found in Jan continued in Ti- juana 8 May (ph. tMJB), establishing the first Regional record outside Nov-Mar. Nine Brant at C.PG.P 28 Apr (MS, ph. MJB, LDS) were inland, and 2 in La Paz 28 Mar (ph. SGM) were southerly. A male Wood Duck at the Mexicali Zoo 28 Apr (MJB, MS, LDS) provid- ed the first single-bird observation at that lo- cation since Mar 2004, and 40 Mallards at the Colonia Zaragoza sewage ponds the same day included a brood (MJB, ph. MS, LDS) that provided only the 2nd breeding record for the ne. Late ducks from Leyes de Reforma n. and w. 14-15 May included 6 Northern Shovelers, 2 Northern Pintails, 2 Green-winged Teal, a Ring-necked Duck, and a Bufflehead (all RAE). A male Black Scoter about 5 km n. of San Felipe 13 Mar (GK, HS) was presumably moving northward with the 3000-4000 Surf Scoters there and established the first Region- al record in the Gulf of California. The only loons found inland this season were 8 Commons at C.PG.P 28 Apr (ph. MJB, MS, LDS). Unidentified Pterodroma petrels were seen at sea off Cabo San Lucas 18 Mar (GK, HS) and from Pta. Arranca Cabellos, n. of La Paz, 29 Mar (tSGM). The Cory’s Shear- water returned to Is. Los Coronados for its 3rd consecutive year. It was seen on Middle Rock and heard calling 20 Mar-1 1 Jun (DWP, ph. MS et al.); but on 31 Mar, it was foraging nearby at the Nine Mile Bank (TGMcC et al.). Although regular, Wedge-rumped Storm-Pe- trels are scarcely reported in the Region: 2 were at sea off Cabo San Lucas 18 Mar (GK, HS). Up to 35 Brown Boobies were tallied at/near Is. Los Coronados 8 Jan-24 Jun, in- cluding 2 fledglings (HRC et al); but most re- markable was an ad. Blue-footed there 10 Feb-24 Jun that “appeared to be bonding with an ad. Brown Booby” (ph. WTH et al.). Nesting herons at C.PG.P 28 Apr included at least 12 Great Blue Herons, 25 Great Egrets, and 35 Snowy Egrets (MJB, MS, LDS). Eight- een California Condors have been released in Baja California, some of which frequented the desert w. of San Felipe last winter and some that ranged as far afield as Tecate. A nest with a chick was found high in the Sierra San Pe- dro Martir this spring, establishing the first The booby bonanza at Baja California's Islas Los Coronados continued this year, with up to 35 Brown Boobies (including two nesting pairs) and this adult Blue-footed Booby seen from 10 February 2007 into summer (here 20 March). Pho- tograph by Matt Sadowski. confirmed breeding record in Mexico. The chick did not fledge (all Jide HdlC). At least one Broad-winged Hawk remained at Miraflo- res 7 Apr, but the report of another dark- morph individual (tKAR, CR; undocumented in the Region) did not rule out other potential species. Single Swainson’s Hawks about 6 km w. of Tecate 31 Mar & 27 Apr (JS) were the only ones reported in the n. We have much to learn about golden- plovers in the Region. Two Americans in ba- sic plumage were at Lagunas de Chametla 28- 29 Mar (ph. SGM); Pacific remains unreport- ed in the far s. A Black Oystercatcher near Puerto Lopez Mateos 18 Mar (REW) was ap- parently the southernmost ever recorded. One of 3 Spotted Sandpipers at Heroes de la Independencia 15 May was “very aggressive toward another,” perhaps hinting at the possi- bility of nesting, but no sandpipers were there 6 & 18 Jun (RAE). Three Sanderlings at C.PG.P 28 Apr (ph. MJB, MS, LDS) were the only ones found inland this season and a Baird’s Sandpiper at the El Centenario tank 3 Mar, believed to be a migrant (pb. tMJI), es- tablished one of few, and the earliest. Region- al spring record. Franklin’s Gulls were at Lagunas de Chametla 29 Mar (ph. SGM), 1. San Esteban 5 Apr (2; MG), and C.PG.P. 28 Apr (2; MJB, pb. MS, LDS). There have been many conflicting reports involving Yellow-footedAVestern Gulls from Bahia Magdalena, and this spring was no exception, Iliff saw at least 4 confus- ing birds with yellowish legs “not as bright as on livens” 28 Feb-2 Mar, and Webster report- ed a Yellow-footed and 750 Westerns (many having “pink legs with extensive areas of dull yellovHsh”) at Puerto Lopez Mateos 17 Mar. He also noticed discolored legs on nearby Herring Gulls and suggested that some envi- ronmental factor or toxic agent might be re- sponsible. We encourage observers to exam- ine these gulls carefully to better understand this new or previously unnoticed situation. Sabine’s Gulls were reported from the w. coast of Baja California (18; 26 Mar-11 Jun), the w. coast of Baja California Sur (21; 18-30 Mar), and the s. Gulf (11+; 4 Apr). Black-legged Kit- tiwakes are rarely reported in the Region, so different individuals at Is, Los Coronados 20 & 31 Mar (DWP, ph. MS et al.) were note- worthy. Nesting birds at C.PG.P 28 Apr in- cluded 150 Gull-billed, 75 Caspian, and 30 Forster’s Terns, and 50 Black Skimmers (MJB, MS, LDS). Two Long-tailed Jaegers in the s. Gulf near Los Islotes and 30+ about 8 km se. of 1. Espiritu Santo 4 Apr (PAG) were seem- ingly early and included only one ad. in alter- nate plumage, suggesting that they may have wintered locally. The presence of unseason- able Long-tailed Jaegers in the Gulf has been one of the greatest Regional surprises recent- ly and demands further study. DOVES THROUGH ORIOLES A record number of Mourning Doves was recorded at 1. Guadalupe 17 Mar: 470 at the n. end (MSM et al.). Four Ruddy Ground-Doves remained at Bahia de Los Angeles 1-20 Mar (MF, GF), and 45 were in a flock at Todos San- VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 515 BAJA CALIFORNIA PENINSULA ^ A Islands in the Gulf of California are ideally situated for studies in island biogeography and consequently they were the focus of books published in 1983 and 2002 (Island Biogeography 3 tl in the Sea of Cortez and A New Island Biogeography of the Sea of Cortes). While basic concepts concerning taxonomic differentiation and island size/breeding bird community associations are well covered, irrsufficient caution was used in the preparation of individual island bird lists. The same is true of a paper on birds of the Midriff (n. Gulf) islands published in Ecography 23: 693-701 (2000). We are fortunate to receive regular reports from Mike Greenfelder, who visits many of the Gulf islands as a guide each tourist season. From Dec through Apr, he recorded 47 shore- and land- bird species on eight islands, including a number of bird-island combinations not reported previously: Great Egret on Carmen; Black-crowned Night-Heron on lldefonso; American Oystercatch- er on Danzante; Merlin on Carmen; Peregrine Falcon on San Francisco; Belted Kingfisher on Santa Catalina and Danzante; Gila Woodpecker on Danzante; Gray Flycatcher on Santa Catalina; Gray Vireo on Espiritu Santo and Santa Catalina; Violet-green Swallow on Santa Catalina; Marsh Wren on Carmen; and Northern Mockingbird on San Francisco. We are aware of a considerable amount of similar unpublished data from other observers in previous years and we look forward to the eventual careful compilation of this information. In the meantime, we welcome all reports from this fascinating area. tos 13 Mar (MJI). Only 4 Vaux’s Swifts were seen at E.S.J. this year (24 Mar; SGM), where up to 20 wintered the year before. Rufous Hummingbirds were reported from Bahia de Like most American Golden-Plovers recorded in the Baja California Peninsula region, this cooperative individual was in southern Baja California Sur, where it was one of two at Lagunas de Chametia 28-29 (here 28) March 2007. Photograph by Steven G. MIodinow. Los Angeles northward 9 Feb-mid Apr, with individuals noted offshore at Bahia Todos Santos 15 Mar (PP et al.) and the Nine Mile Bank 31 Mar (GMcC et al.). Notable wood- peckers near Tecate in the far n. included a record-late Red-breasted Sapsucker through 17 Mar that was replaced by a male Downy Woodpecker 17 Mar-late Jim (tJS). Real del Mar was good for migrant fly- catchers, with a record-late Olive-sided Fly- catcher 4 jun (RAF) and the season’s only Willow Flycatcher 8 May (ph. tMJB). Two migrant Hammonds Flycatchers were in the nw. 8 May (tMJB), and 3 Hammond’s and a Dusky Flycatcher were in the Mexicali Valley 22 Apr (KAR). Four Bell’s Vireos at Lagunita del Saucito, near the confluence of Arroyo San Juan de Dios and Arroyo FI Cartabon, 27 Apr (ph. GR-C et al.) were at a previously un- reportecl locality. Up to 3 Bank Swallows at F.S.J. 6-24 Mar (MJI, SGM) had undoubtedly wintered at the Cape, whereas 6 in the ex- treme ne. near Algodones 22 Apr (KAR) were migrants. Up to 3 migratory Ruby-crowned Kinglets on 1. Guadalupe 17-19 Mar (KAR et al.) were in the same groves once occupied by the now-extinct endemic subspecies obscums. For a species reported to be “fairy common in winter locally s. over the whole peninsula” (Grinnell, 1928, A Distribution Summa- tion of the Ornithology of Lower Califor- nia) and “locally common in the n. but rarer in the south” (Wilbur, 1987, Birds of Baja California), we receive very few reports of Sage Thrasher. Granted, recreational birders do not typically fre- quent the desolate habitats favored by this species. The four scattered reports of individuals since Dec 2006 and daily observations of a few at Bahia de Los Angeles in Jan/Feb (MF, GF) exceeded the number reported for the previous six years. Two were seen on islands: Guadalupe 16 Mar (PP, ph. MJB et al.) and San Benito Oeste 27 Mar (PAG). We encourage the reporting of at least summaries of all observations of this species in the Region. More than 100 Nashville Warblers in the Mexicali Valley 22 Apr (KAR) established a record Regional count. A Green-tailed Towhee at the Mexicali Zoo 28 Apr (LDS) was judged to be a migrant. Presumably wintering, spar- rows on 1. Guadalupe 17-19 Mar included 2 Generally rare In Mexican waters, this adult Black-legged Kittiwake was on Baja California's Islas Los Coronados 20 March 2007. Photograph by Matt Sadowski. Chipping, a Savannah, a Lincoln’s, 8 White- crowned, and 8 continental Oregon Juncos (MJB et al.). In the Cape District, good cover- age produced high counts of 25 Blue Gros- beaks at Todos Santos 4 Mar (MJI) and 24 Var- ied Buntings at Miraflores 25-27 Mar (SGM). Suspicions of far s. nestings were generated by 50 Red-winged Blackbirds, including singing males, at E.S.J. 23-24 Mar (SGM) and 2 singing Western Meadowlarks at El Cente- nario 3-28 Mar (ph. MJI, SGM). Both species were first recorded nesting in Baja California Sur in May 2006. Visitors to the Cape District know how common the Hooded Oriole is; MIodinow estimated 200-h at E.S.J. 24 Mar and 225 at Miraflores 25-27 Mar. Contributors: Mark J. Billings, Roberto Car- mona, Harry R. Carter, Horacio de la Cueva, Richard A. Erickson, George Flicker, Mary Flicker, Peter A. Gaede, George Gerdts, Hec- tor Gomez de Silva, Mike Greenfelder, W. Ter- ry Hunefeld, Marshall J. Iliff, Guy Kirwan, Luciana Luna Mendoza, Tim Manolis, Guy McCaskie, Steven G. MIodinow, Eduardo Palacios, David W. Povey Peter Pyle, Cindy Radamaker, Kurt A. Radamaker, Gorgonio Ruiz-Campos, Matt Sadowski, Mike San Miguel, Mark Scalf, Hadoram Shirihai, Lea D. Squires, Joe Sweeney, Richard E. Webster. O Richard A. Erickson, LSA Associates 20 Executive Park, Suite 200, Irvine, California 92614 (richard.erickson@lsa-assoc.com) Mark J. Billings, 3802 Rosecrans Street, PMB #334 San Diego, California 92110, (markjbillings@yahoo.com) Roberto Carmona, Departamento de Biologia Marina Universidad Autonoma de Baja California Sur Apartado Postal 19-B, La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico (beauty@uabcs.mx) Gorgonio Ruiz-Campos, Facuitad de Ciencias Universidad Autonoma de Baja California Apartado Postal 1653 Ensenada, Baja California, 22800, Mexico y. S. mailing address: PMB064,P.0. Box 189003 Coronado, California 92178-9003 (gruiz@uabc.mx) 516 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS Mexico Hector Gomez de Silva NORTHERN & CENTRAL MEXICO At least 8 Thicket Tinamous were heard at Chipinque Park and La Estanzuela Park, both in Monterrey, N.L. in mid-Mar QG, AH, RD, m.ob.). Groups of 2-4 Fulvous and Black-bel- lied Whistling-Ducks were seen 13 Apr and again 5 May in a sewage pond on the Nazas R. between Torreon and Gomez Palacio (RLL, FVP). A pair of Mallards and seven pairs of Mexican Ducks were at the Puerto Penasco, Son. sewage pond 8 Apr (MDC). Two active Turkey Vulture nests were in cliffs on the Rio Aros, Son. 12 Apr (NM-C). A single female Northern Harrier was seen on the Nazas R. near the city of Lerdo, Dgo. 5 Apr, a late date, considering that harriers tend to depart the subregion in Feb (RLL, FVP). A White-tailed Kite was at Almoloya del Rio, Mex. 30 Mar (MDC). A single juv. Gray Hawk was recorded in Bosque Venustiano Carranza, an urban park in Torreon 8 Apr, and a Broad- winged Hawk was there 15 Apr (RLL, WB, FVP); the latter species was also noted there also 16 Apr 2003 (FVP). A Common Black- Hawk was at 2500 m elevation near Ejido Ojo de Agua del Cazador, Dgo. 22 Mar (MG, HS, GK). An imm. Solitary Eagle was pho- tographed about 1 km from Alta Cima toward Gomez Farias, Tamps. 14 Mar (RJ), in the same area that furnished the only previous state record about a year before. A Southern Lapwing was found in the fields just e. of the little pond near the San Bias Suites in San Bias, Nay. in mid-Mar (B&DS, JM, VA, ph.) but not in Apr or May (MS). This South American species has in- vaded Central America in the past 10 years, and even though there is one previous record from Mexico, as well as sev- eral from Florida and one from Maryland, this find in n. Mexico was a big surprise. More than 20 Wilson’s Phalaropes were seen 13 Apr and 5 May in a sewage pond near Ejido Las Huertas be- tween Torreon and Gomez Palacio (RLL, FVP). An ad. Franklin’s Gull in alternate plumage was at the Puerto Penasco sewage pond, and 2 more were at the golf course on Sandy Beach 8 Apr (MDC). Seven Eurasian Collared- Doves were seen in Laguna del Rey, Coah. 16 May (MCS), up to 6 were seen daily around Colo- nia Mina Bismark, Chih. 1-8 Mar (AM, JM, ph.), and one was in Zuazua, N.L! 15 Apr OIGP, ph.). Military Macaws arrived a few weeks earlier than usual at Salto del Agua Llovida, Dgo., with two pairs seen 23 Apr (MAM). Lesser Nighthawks were seen 5 Apr along the Nazas R. near the city of Lerdo, Dgo. (RLL, FVP), 26 Apr in Torreon (FVP), and at a sewage pond near Ejido Las Huertas on the Nazas R. 5 May (RLL, FVP). Four White-throated Swifts were in Canon del Realito along the Aguanaval R., s. of Tor- reon 15 May (RLL, FVP). A vocal group of Vi- olaceous Trogons was found near Gomez Farias on the rd. to El Azteca 28 Mar (RJ, ph.). A Gila Woodpecker discovered 8 Mar just n. of Colonia Mina Bismark was e. of normal range (AM, JM). A single female Williamson’s Sapsucker was seen in Arroyo Las Playas in the w. Sierra Madre of Durango 3 Mar (WB, RLL, FVP, RS, JIS, AGS). Four White-striped Woodcreeper territories were Barbisal de Arri- ba, Son. in mixed riparian forest with sycamores, palms, oaks, and other trees 14-15 Apr (NM-C, AC, NS, PW, JS, DU ph.). A Brown-crested flycatcher was recorded at Canon de Fernandez S.P. on the Nazas R. 1 May (RLL, FVP). Three Great Crested Fly- catchers encountered 20 May in Xalapa were late migrants (AM). An Eastern Phoebe near Colonia Mina Bismark 3 Mar was w. of normal range (AM, JM). A pair of Black-crowned Tityras was observed nesting at La Florida be- low Gomez Farias, Tamps. 4 Apr (WC). A Black-capped Vireo was seen in Bosque Venus- tiano Carranza 8 Apr (WB, FVP), and a Yellow- green Vireo was at Los Pavos Canyon, Son. 1 1 Apr (PW, NM-C). A Bell’s Vireo was at Laguna Rodeo, Mor. 22 Feb (MDC). A Black-throated Magpie-Jay was seen in Canon del Realito be- ing mobbed by 2 Northern Mockingbirds 15 May (FVP); this species is occasionally traded as a cage bird in Torreon, but the theory that it was an escapee has to be proved, as Torreon is 72 km away. A female Prothonotary Warbler Two Christmas Shearwaters, including this bird (at rear) swimming with Wedge- tailed Shearwaters, were seen 8-10 kilometers off Puerto Angel, Oaxaca, Mexico on 8 March 2007. This photograph furnishes rare documentation of the species for the state and for the country. Photograph by Steve N. G. Howell. 517 VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 MEXICO struck a window in Monterrey 6 May OO- A Palm Warbler was found in Presa e. of Tula, Tamps. 8 Mar (]T, EB, KB, MP) A Worm-eating Warbler was seen in Bosque Venustiano Car- ranza, Torreon 6 May, the first such record in the subregion, and an American Redstart and Northern Waterthrush were there the same day (RLE, WB, FVP); the latter species was also noted in Canon del Realito on the Agua- naval R. 15 May (RLE, FVP, who also saw one there 1 May 2006). EIp to 4 White-throated Sparrows were seen daily 1-5 Mar near Colonia Mina Bismark, well out of normal range (AM, JM, ph.), and a lone White-throated Sparrow was seen forag- ing with a Rusty-crowned Ground-Sparrow along the Ea Petaca rd.. Sin. 9 Mar (DM). A Harris’s Sparrow discovered 2 Mar near Colo- nia Mina Bismark was well s. of normal range (AM, JM). Despite intensive searching, only a This adult Broad-winged Hawk was found at Bosque Venustiano Carranza, Torreon, Coahuila 1 5 April 2007. Photograph by Francisco Valdes Perezgasga. single Sierra Madre Sparrow was found at Eji- do Ojo de Agua del Cazador 22 Mar (MG, HS, GK). A breeding colony of Montezuma’s Oropendolas with 27 nests was noted just w. of El Naranjo, S.E.P. 3 Apr (WC). Contributors: Vaughan Ashby, William Beaty, Esteban Berrones, Ken Burton, Michael D. Carmody, Will Carter, Maribel Cortez Sosa, Alan Craig, Ruben Deschamps, Adrian Ganem-Sada, Jose Ignacio Granados Peon, Manuel Grosselet, Julio Guzman, Antonio Hi- dalgo, Ricardo Jimenez, Guy Kirwan, Cuquis Eoya Eoya, Refugio Eoya Eoya, David Mackay Marco Antonio Mancinas, Jeff Marks, Amy McAndrews, Jorge Montejo, Narca Moore- Craig, Mel Pineda, Rene Sada, Juan Ignacio Sada, Jim Shiflett, Hadoram Shirihai, Noel Snyder, Mark Stackhouse, Bill & Doreen Stair, Jim Tietz, Dave Utterback, Francisco Valdes Perezgasga, Peter Warshall. SOUTHERN MEXICO Surprisingly, no Singing Quail were heard around Campamento El Triunfo, Chis. in the hrst week of Mar (MDC). Pied-billed Grebes seen in Apr near Ea Ventosa were late migrants or possibly residents (AM, JM). Eeast Grebes continue to show up in the inland lakes in Gro., with more than 10 at Eaguna de Tuxpan 29 Mar (MDC). Four Blue-footed Boobies were roosting on a rock off the tip of Punta Diamante, Acapulco, Gro. 23 Mar (MDC). Two A Boat-billed Heron roost was at Botazo Park, Ea Crucecita, near Huatulco, Oax. 8 Apr (MG, HS, GK). A hock of 22 American White Peli- cans soared over 2800 m in the Sierra de Atoy- ac, Gro. 4 Apr (MG, HS, GK). Eleven, 15, & 16 Brown Pelicans were observed moving north- ward near Ea Ventosa 15 Mar, 31 Mar, and 3 May, respectively (AM, JM). Up to 4 Magnifi- cent Frigatebirds were seen almost daily mov- ing northward near Ea Ventosa late Mar-early May (AM,JM). A total of 696 Wood Storks was counted migrating northward near Ea Ventosa late Mar-early May, usually in low numbers but with a high single-day count of 331 (AM,JM). A King Vulture was below Paraiso, Gro. 7 Apr (MG, HS, GK). Two White-tailed Kites were on the flats n. of the Acapulco, Gro. airport 23 Mar, and one was at Almoloya del Rio, Mex. 30 Mar (MDC). A Swallow-tailed Kite near Ea Ventosa 8 Apr was out of normal range (AM). Single Cooper’s Hawks were seen above Finca Prusia, Chis. 3 Mar and at Paval, Chis. 8 Mar (MDC). A Barred Forest-Falcon was at 400 m elevation on the Atoyac rd. 24 Mar, and 2 were at 2400 m on that rd. 28 Mar (MDC). Two Collared Plovers were at Presa Tepecoacuilco near Iguala, Gro. 28 Mar (MDC). Four Sandwich Terns were feeding along the shore at Puerto Paredon, Chis. 11 Mar, and 4 were at Playa Paraiso near Atoyac 26 Mar (MDC). A pair of Mourning Doves discovered nest- ing near Ea Ventosa 5 Apr was out of normal breeding range (AM). A Striped Owl was seen near the Tapachula, Chis. airport 10 Mar (MDC), and a Stygian Owl was seen above Filo de Caballo, Gro. 28 Mar (MDC). Four Northern Potoos were above 400 m elevation at km 27 on the Atoyac rd. 24 Mar (MDC). A Common Pauraque was photographed at Campo Morado near Acatempan, Gro. 18 May (ORS), an area indicated by a question I mark in the range map in Howell and Webb ' (1995). A Chimney Swift was at Ea Venta, | Oax. 15 Apr (MG, ph.). Up to 3 Beautiful ! Hummingbirds were present near Ea Venta 28 Mar-21 Apr (AM, ph.). A Wedge-billed | Woodcreeper was in the coffee finca above Paval 9 Mar (MDC). A White-throated Flycatcher was at Eaguna de Tuxpan 29 Mar (MDC). A strong passage of Cedar Waxwings was noted at Finca el Paraiso, Oax. 10 Apr, with more than 1000 birds estimated in half an hour, in flocks of 20 to 100 (MG, HS, GK). A Yellow-green Vireo was early at Paval 9 Mar (MDC). A Blue-head- ed Vireo was at Taxco El Viejo 30 Mar (MDC), and a Bell’s Vireo was at Eaguna de Tuxpan 29 Mar (MDC). Up to 85 Mangrove Swallows per day were observed migrating northward near Ea Ventosa in late Mar and early Apr (AM, JM). A Cave Swallow seen 12 Apr at Rio Ea Venta was well out of normal range (AM). Several Northern Mockingbirds were singing and defending territories near Ea Ventosa Apr-mid-May, outside of normal breeding range (AM). A Chestnut-sided Warbler discovered 9 May near Ea Venta was well out of normal range (AM), and a Magnolia Warbler was at Eaguna de Tuxpan 29 Mar (MDC). A female Cerulean Warbler observed 19 Abr near Ea Ventosa was well outside of normal range (AM). A Palm Warbler was above 2500 m el- evation along the Atoyac rd., Gro. 3 Apr (MG, HS,- GK), while a male Hooded Warbler seen 16 Mar near Ea Ventosa was s. of normal range OM)- A female Brewer’s Blackbird was on a golf green on the shore of Presa Te- pecoacuilco 28 Mar (MDC). Several Hooded Orioles near Ea Venta 24 Mar were east of normal wintering range (AM, JM). Contributors: Michael D. Carmody, Manuel Grosselet, Guy Kirwan, Amy McAndrews, Jorge Montejo, Octavio Rojas Soto, Hadoram Shirihai. 518 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS YUCATAN PENINSULA Sabancu^ ,oo' Rio Lagartos Merida^.- — Chichen Itza' A.. Yucatan Gbba*, A Cozumel ] \ i Chunyaxche J 1 Felipe C; rrillo Puerto • rmv Banco Escarcega / ^ Chinchorro Calakmul* Although reports were scarce this spring, it is obvious that a migration of warblers and seedeaters entered the central and southern coasts of Quintana Roo 22-24 April, during a period of strong southeasterly winds. We are beginning to understand spring migration routes more clearly; Barn Swallows, for in- stance, move toward Cuba from Yucatan’s north coast, whereas many flycatchers and orioles appear to transit the southern portion of the peninsula, perhaps in order to take an overland route back north or shortening the trip across the Gulf of Mexico. Another raptor of interest at Bosque Venustiano Carranza, Torreon, Coahuila was this Gray Hawk, photographed 8 April 2007. Photograph by Francisco Valdes Perezgasga. Abbreviations: EC.E (Felipe Carrillo Puerto); C.V (Chanca Veracruz, 8 km s. of FC.P.); C.Y. (Colonia Yucatan s. of El Cuyo, Yuc.); D.C. (Dzonot Carretero, Yuc); L.O. (Laguna Ocom, 8 kms. of EC.P.); P.M. (Puerto Morelos); R.L. (Rio Lagartos); R.L.B.R. (Ria Lagartos Biosphere Re- serve); R.S.S. (Rancho San Salvador); S.A.C. (San Antonio Chel, Hunucma, Yuc.); S.E (San Felipe, Yuc.); VC. (Vigia Chico rd., Q. Roo). DUCKS THROUGH SKIMMER About 30 Black-bellied Whistling-Ducks, lo- cal migrants, were still in a pond behind El Cuyo 3 May (BM), while 300 Fulvous Whistling-Ducks were seen 8 Mar on the Pal- izada rd. between Jonuta and hwy. 185, with 500 Blue-winged Teal (RH). A Muscovy Duck was seen at Celestiin 30 Apr. Blue-winged Teal lingered into May, with two pairs at a pond near Sacbo, 8 km se. of El Cuyo, and three pairs in a nearby pond 3 May (BM); 3 males were at a pond e. of Dzonot Carretero 9 May (SC, BM). Six pairs of Northern Shovel- ers were still in the Celestun estuary 30 Apr (MA, AD, BM). A single Red-breasted Mer- ganser, first seen in front of lighthouse at R.L. 10 Mar (IN), was seen again 11 Mar (BS, MS) and is presumed to be the one seen in same area 7 May (BM, DN). The forest s. of EC.R still provides good habitat for species such as Great Curassow; a pair was seen perched near the rd. leading to C.V. 18 Mar (AH); on the other side of the hwy, 3 Ocellated Turkeys preened predawn 27 Mar (BM, WS). Records of Yucatan Bobwhite from areas disputed by Yuc. and Camp., but s. of the areas where mapped by Howell 61 Webb (1995), included 4 at Puchnanchen 15 Apr, 3 at Arroyo Negro 16 Apr, 2 at Cristobal Colon 18 Apr, and 8 at Veinte de Noviembre 19 Apr (MPV). Approximately 1000 American White Pelicans were observed between Celestun and Palmar 23 Apr (MA), and a Black-crowned Night-Heron was at pond near Sacbo 4 May (BM). Thirty Glossy Ibis with 45 White-faced Ibis were counted along the Palizada rd. 8 Mar (RH), and a Glossy was at C.Y. 14 Mar QA, AC, CN, PP, MS, LT). Eight dark ibis were 10 km s. of El Cuyo 3 May, and most likely were Glossy, as 3 were in ponds near Sacbo the same day (BM). A White-tailed Kite flew over C.V 21 Mar, and shortly afterwards 6 Swallow-tailed Kites moved over the same village, located w. of the savannah zone behind Bahia de Ascencidn in the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve (AH, WS). A flock of 30 of the latter kites were seen at R.L. 25 Mar (IN), and in the early afternoon 30 Mar a flock of nearly 100 birds was observed flying eastward against a 30-km easterly wind over R.S.S., feeding on dragonflies. At 6:00 p.m., they were in the area of Peten Tucha, R.L.B.R. (IN). A Northern Harrier was seen 8 MEXICO Mar on the Palizada rd. (RH), while a pair of Crane Hawks was calling in duet to each oth- er, perched in different trees near Sacbo 3 May (BM). A pair of White-tailed Hawks was ob- served at a nest high up in a tall, leafless tree 2 km s. of S.E 1 Apr (SC); chicks were observed 6 May (SC, BM, AR, ER). A rare Black-and- white Hawk-Eagle was seen in the area of Ba- calar 22 Mar (BS, MS), while a pair of Ornate Hawk-Eagles was seen and heard calling to each other near their nest at L.O. 16 Mar (BM, WS) and in the nest 23 Mar (AH). An ad. Purple Gallinule in a pond near Sacbo 3 May (BM), and 6 in pond at Dzonot Carretero 6 May (where a juv. was reported last year), could be either residents or mi- grants (BM, LP). At the latter location on the same date were 2 ad. Common Moorhens with 3 chicks (BM, LP). Three American Coots were still in pond near Sacbo 3 May (BM). Nineteen migrant American Avocets returning northward were at Celestun 19 Apr (AD, BM). A regular but hard-to-find migrant Upland Sandpiper was spotted near This immature Solitary Eagle was identihably photographed near Alta Cima, Tamaulipas on 14 March 2007; the species is quite rare in the state. Photograph by Ricardo Jimenez. the estuary at Celestun 22 Apr (FC), and a Whimbrel was in the salt flats at Santa Clara 16 Mar (LT). A transient White-rumped Sandpiper was reported at Celestun along with 8 Pectoral Sandpipers 17-18 May (VM). The wetlands along the Palizada rd. pro- duced 40 Stilt Sandpipers and 100 Long- billed Dowitchers 8 Mar (RH), and 10 other Stilts were at Chabihau 16 Mar QA, AC, CN, PP, MS, LT). Four Long-billed Dowitchers were identified at Celestun 17-18 May (VM). A single Wilson's Phalarope was sighted at Chabihau 16 Mar QA, AC, CN, PP, MS, LT), while 6 ad. Forster’s Terns were in the Ce- lestun estuary 30 Apr (AD, BM). A Least Tern showed up a month early at El Cuyo on 14 Mar QA, AC, CN, PP, MS, LT), while 800 Black Skimmers were still in the harbor at Chuburna 31 Mar, where they winter each year in such numbers (BM). DOVES THROUGH TITYRAS Four rarely reported Plain-breasted Ground- Doves were found 8 Mar along the Palizada VOLUME 61 (2007) NUMBER 3 519 MEXICO rd., exactly where they should be (RH). Six Eurasian/African Collared-Doves were report- ed in the mangrove at El Cuyo in Apr (LG). Pheasant Cuckoo can be found just about any- where there are overgrown helds but is rarely seen and therefore not often reported. Howev- er, an individual calling in an overgrown pas- ture was tape-recorded 4 km e. of Dzonot Car- retero 6 May (BM). A single Common Nighthawk, a migrant seen in great numbers during fall migration, was flying circles over L.O. area 25 Apr (BM, WS); in the same area 23 Mar, an ad. Northern Potoo was observed during the day in a leafless tree (BM, WS) and photographed on 10 May with a chick (WS). Approximately 500 Vaux’s Swifts circled down into a cave behind the hwy. at Tulum vil- lage at dusk 22 Mar (AH, BM, WS). Two female Ruby-throated Hummingbirds were at S.A.C. 13 May, a location that places the bird close to the w. coast of the peninsula, perhaps facilitat- ing a shorter Gulf crossing than during fall mi- gration (BM). A Ringed Kingfisher, a species found scattered around the n. portion of the peninsula where bodies of fresh water exist, was at Coba 20 Mar QA, AC, CN, PP, MS, LT). Tawny-winged, Ruddy, Olivaceous, Northern Barred-, and Ivory-billed Woodcreepers were all noted at L.O. 23 Mar (AH, BM, WS). An Olive-sided Flycatcher was hrst observed in the area of Central Vallarta near the Botanical Gar- den at PM. on 29 Oct 2006 and was seen a to- tal of eight times up until 22 Apr (LK). A sin- gle Eastern Kingbird flew over Noh Cah, Q. Roo 19 Apr, and 2 were noted along the rd. to YC. 26 Apr (BM, WS). Another was at Peten Tucha, R.L.B.R. 8 May (SC, BM, ER, AR), and 4 were at S.A.C. 13 May (BM). Three Fork-tailed Flycatchers were observed for two hours, feed- ing continuously on hg fruits at Nachi Cocom, along the Chetumal-Escarcega rd. 18 Mar (AH, BM). A female Gray-collared Becard was observed while calling to its mate 17 Mar at Calderon near the Belize border (BM). Three Black-crowned Tityras were perched over the rd. to VC. 21 Mar (AH, BM, WS). MANAKINS THROUGH WARBLERS A female White-collared Manakin was heard at Calderon 17 Mar (AH, BM), where its habitat is disappearing rapidly. A Blue-headed Vireo was observed on eight occasions from Nov 2006 through 6 Mar in the Botanical Garden at P.M. (LK). A single Gray-breasted Martin was iden- tified along the rd. from El Cuyo to D.C. 15 Mar OA, AC, CN, PP, MS, LT). Fifty Tree Swal- lows were seen making their way back north- ward along the Palizada rd. 8 Mar (RH). Three Bank Swallows were spotted along the coast be- tween EM. and Cancun 21 Mar QA, AC, CN, PP, MS, LT). The spring migration of Barn Swallow through the pen. was first reported 31 Mar, with 300 flying over Chuburna Harbor in a northeasterly direction (BM); 500 were flying northward 30 Apr over Celestun (AD, BM); and 100 were perched on wires along rd. 12 km s. of El Cuyo at dusk 3 May; all were gone the next morning (BM). A Veery was in forest at L.O. 23 Apr (WS), and a Wood Thrush was seen in the same area 25 Apr (BM, WS). Cedar Waxwings were in evidence this spring, with 50 observed 3 Mar feeding in a fig tree at S.A.C. (EC, DC). A flock of 30 was feed- ing in a garden in EC.P. 16 Mar (BM), while 40- 45 were near the Celestun bridge 13-14 May, and 10-20 were in the Ce- lestun park during the same period (VM). The call of the species was heard in the area through 21 May (VM). A Blue- winged Warbler, a bird of special interest in the sub- region, was feeding in the forest at L.O. 21 Mar (AH, BM, WS). On 24 Apr, a mi- gration of Yellow Warblers passed along the n. coast of the S.K.B.R., where they were common in the dune vegetation during a strong easterly wind (BM, WS). A late individual was at Sacbo 4 May (BM). Reports of Magnolia Warbler are common, but late migra- tion dates included an in- dividual at L.O. 23 Apr (BM, WS) and another at Sacbo 3-4 May (BM). A Black- throated Green Warbler was at L.O. 23 Apr (BM, WS), along with a Black-and-white Warbler (WS) and a fe- male of the latter was at Sacbo 4 May (BM). A male American Redstart was among the war- bler species at L.O. 23 Apr (BM, WS). A win- tering Worm-eating Warbler was feeding in the underbrush at Calderon 17 Mar (BM), and a Kentucky Warbler was reported 6 Mar at Solferino in n. Q. Roo (S.E). TANAGERS THROUGH ORIOLES An ad. Gray-headed Tanager was feeding a fledgling as early as 29 Mar S.K.B.R. (WS), while a rare pair of Crimson-collared Tanagers was spotted briefly in the village of Calderon 18 Mar (AH). A Blue-gray Tanager was reported at C.Y. 14 Mar QA, AC, CN, PP, MS, LT). Yellow- faced Grassquits, which have spread through- out the general Bacalar area, were seen feeding in grasses around homes in the village of Chac- choben 24 Mar (AH, BM). A single Savannah Sparrow was reported at R.L. 22 Apr (ER). Movement of Rose-breasted Grosbeaks through the peninsula during spring migration tends to show that they enter the e. coast and move in a west-northwesterly direction, no doubt in seek- ing a shorter route across the Gulf of Mexico. Between 20 and 30 of the species were scat- ; tered throughout the woods at S.A.C. 29 Mar (BM); a female was in the forest on the n. coast of S.K.B.R. 24 Apr (BM, WS); and another was at Sacbo behind El Cuyo 4 May (BM). A male Blue Grosbeak, a species decreasing on the peninsula, was on the VC. rd. 21 Mar (BM); 4 were at Noh Cah 19 Apr (BM, WS); and anoth- er was on the S.K.B.R. n. coast 24 Apr (BM, WS). Six Indigo Buntings were also at Noh Cah 19 Apr (BM, WS), and 30 i were seen moving through i the coastal scrub on the n. 1 coast of S.K.B.R. 24 Apr (BM, WS). A Dickcissel 1 was also at Noh Cah 19 1 Apr (BM, WS). Male Orchard Orioles appear to move through the pen. earlier than fe- males, and those coming from farther s. apparently travel across the s. portion of the pen. in order to exit somewhere along the sw. coast. Twelve were feeding on nectar in flowering shrubs at Calderon 17 Mar (AH, BM); and 14 were feeding nectaring on Lon- chocarpus, locally called jabin verde, for two hours 18 Mar at Nachi Cocom on the Chetu- mal-Escarcega hwy. (AH, BM); 2 males were in area of L.O. 20 Mar (BM); one male was singing the same day at Senor, nw. of EC.P. (AH, BM, WS); 2 males were at C.V 21 Mar (AH, BM, WS); and 4 were at S.A.C. 29 Mar (BM). A male Baltimore Oriole was at Noh Cah 19 Apr (BM, WS). Contributors (subregional editor in bold- face): Marcos Ake, Jonathan Atwood, Alexis Clark, Evelio Col, Santiago Contreras, Fran- cisco Cutz, Deysi Cuxim, Alex Dzib, Sandra Flores, Leonardo Guerrero, Antonio Hidalgo, Richard Hoyer, Luis Ku, Barbara MacKinnon, Victor Marin, Ismael Navarro, Cynthia Nichols, Diego Nunez, Polly Pattison, Monica Perez Villafana, Luis Poot, Alberth Rosado, Eric Ramos, Alberth Rosado, Waldemar San- tamaria, Beverly Scott, Megan Smith, Murray Sullivan, Lance Tanino. O Hector (jdme:z de Silva, Xola 314-E 03100 Mexico, D.F., Mexico (hgomez@miranda.ecologia.unam.mx) In Tamaulipas, a pair of Violaceous Trogons was found near Gomez Farias, on the road to El Azteca, 28 March 2007 (here). Photograph by Ricardo Jimenez. 520 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS Central America H. Lee Jones Oliver Komar Shorebirds and pelagics are the new fron- tier in parts of Central America. On 13 April, for example, many of El Salvador’s birders took part in the second national shore- bird count, resulting in large counts of rarely reported species such as Pectoral and Stilt Sandpipers. And pelagic trips off El Salvador and Guatemala in March added incrementally to our knowledge of seabirds in the nearshore Pacific Ocean. Well away from the sea, a dead Red-billed Tropicbird was found on the slope of Cordillera Talamanca in Costa Rica. Inland occurrences of pelagic species are always of in- terest, and suggest that trans-isthmus disper- sal may be the mechanism for gene flow in some pelagic species with populations in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific Ocean Meanwhile, the march of open-country species into new regions continues unabated, as illustrated this season by the expansion of Grayish Saltator into eastern Costa Rica and western Panama. El Salvador added yet an- other new species to its growing list with the capture of a Black-banded Woodcreeper at a banding station only a kilometer or so from the Guatemala border. Abbreviations: C.B.W.S. (Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, Stann Creek, Belize); U.C.R. (Universidad de Costa Rica bird col- lection). DUCKS THROUGH STORKS A group of 750 Blue-winged Teal at the El Pro- greso oxidation ponds, Yoro 4 Mar (DA) were accompanied by a Cinnamon Teal, perhaps the first recorded in Honduras since 1958. Lit- tle known and rarely reported in Guatemala, a male and female Ocellated Quail were seen 5 km e. of San Pedro Carcha, Alta Verapaz 10 Apr (RC). Providing both the earliest seasonal record and a high count for the species in El Salvador were 152 Audubon’s Shearwaters seen on a pelagic out to 50 km off the coast of Ahuachapdn 3 Mar (]RS, ph. TJ). And in Pana- ma, an Audubon’s Shearwater and a Wedge- rumped Storm-Petrel seen near Islas Frailes del Sur, Los Santos 20 May (BA, CAh, SA, DM, DeM) provided the first provincial records for these two species. A dead juv. Red-billed Tropicbird was found on the boundary cut between pasture and montane forest on the slope of Cord. Ta- lamanca, Altamira, Puntarenas 3 Mar (LS, *U.C.R.). Another juv was found dead in the mts. of Heredia on the Pacific slope of Costa Rica’s Central Valley 6 Feb 2004. Five Nazca Boobies and a single Brown Booby seen on the 3 Mar pelagic trip off Ahuachapan were the earliest in the year for each species in El Sal- vador O^S, TJ). With only three previous records for El Salvador, 3 Blue-footed Boobies seen in Bahia de La Union, La Union 26 Mar (ph. RIP) were noteworthy. A feeding group of approximately 20 Red-footed Boobies were 5 km e. of Carrie Bow Caye on Belize’s barri- er reef 9 Apr, and 18 were between Carrie Bow Caye and Glovers Reef on 1 May (PB). Unlike other boobies, this species, which breeds at Half Moon Caye, typically for- ages well offshore and is seldom seen near the reef. In El Salvador, 2800 Magnifi- cent Frigatebirds, mainly imms. and females, 26 Mar at Isla Piri- gallo. La Union (ph. RIP) was made an exceptionally high count. Two separate sightings of Bare-throated Tiger-Heron on the Rio Sapo, Morazdn 8 & 12 Mar were noteworthy for that part of El Salvador (ph. RIP, JSG). In Guatemala, an ad. Red- dish Egret at San Pedro La La- guna, Lake Atitlan, Solold 19 Mar (ph. CCA) was one of the few ever recorded inland in Central America. Single Agami Herons were reported at Sum- mit Ponds, Panamd 1 & 28 Mar (CB and GAr, respectively) where they are rarely seen. On the Pacific slope of Nicaragua, where it is not often reported, a Jabiru was seen 13 Apr at La- guna de Tisma, Masaya (LC, GD, PS). RAPTORS A pair of Hook-billed Kites at Normandia, Usulutdn 12 May (CF) provided a good record of this rarely reported species in El Salvador. A subad. male Northern Harrier, rare on the s. Pacific slope of Costa Rica, was seen in a rice- growing area at Palmar Sur, Puntdrenas 25 Mar QZ). It was in habitat similar to that in the Tempisque Basin, where it occurs regularly in small numbers. Cooper’s Hawks were reported passing La Virgen, Rivas, Nicaragua between 29 Mar and 21 Apr in northward migration, and another was seen on the late date of 3 May at Laguna de Apoyo, Masaya (all PS, AC). On all but one of the five days with sightings, sin- gle birds were seen, with 3 passing on 7 Apr. This species is rare in Nicaragua, where it has been reported previously only in fall migra- tion. Rarely seen in Central America, an ad. Solitary Eagle was reported in Costa Rica on two consecutive mornings in mid-Apr, one day soaring over mt. ridges above San Gerardo Biological Station, Monteverde, Alajuela with both Black and Ornate Hawk-Eagles, which provided good size comparisons (CG). In Guatemala, another ad. was seen 1 May at 1600 m in the Los Tarrales Reserve, Su- chitepequez (LC, KE, MC). Short-tailed Hawk is typically sedentary, but occasionally small groups of migrating birds are reported. In Nicaragua, a remarkable 85 were seen migrating northward past La Vir- gen 22 Mar, with from one to 6 birds reported there on four subsequent dates through 11 Apr (PS, AC). A pair of Zone-tailed Hawks that appeared to be nesting in mangroves at Puerto Parada, Usulutdn 12 May (RP) would be the first to nest in the coastal lowlands of El Salvador. In Panama, along Achiote Rd. in San Lorenzo N.P., Colon, a rare juv. Crested Eagle was seen 28 Mar QCG). And an ad. Black-and- white Hawk-Eagle was seen on the morning of 1 Mar at 1500 m at Las Alturas on the Pacific slope of Cordillera Talamanca, Puntarenas (JZ, AO, JG). This species is rare in Costa Rica, es- pecially at this elevation and location. Despite a year and a half of fieldwork in the Rio Can- grejal Valley, Pico Bonito N.P, Atldntida, Or- nate Hawk-Eagle was not reported until 9 Apr (DA), when one was seen soaring over pri- mary humid forest. After years of relentless persecution by local residents, few large rap- tors remain in this valley. Rarely reported on the Pacihc slope of Guatemala, a Barred Forest-Falcon was heard Four Surfbirds were found at Arcos del Espino, Department of Usulutan in El Salvador on 2 April 2007. Although the species is surely a regular spring tran- sient, there are only a few records of Surfbird from El Salvador. Photograph by Ricardo Ibarra Portillo. VOlUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 521 CENTRAL AMERICA Five Roseate Terns were found along the Pacific coast of southwestern El Sal- vador on 14-15 April 2007 (one here 15 April, at Bocana San Juan, Department of Sonsonate). There are only three previous records for the country. Increased spring observations are needed to determine if this species is regular in spring on the Pacific coast. Photograph by Ricardo Ibarra Portillo. calling in the Los Ancles Reserve, Su- clntepcquez 4 Apr (KE, CA). Another rarely reported raptor, Slaty-backed Forest-Falcon was seen along Pipeline Rd., Colon 18 & 22 Mar (GAr). At least one Collared Forest-Fal- con was heard in the arid Valle de Aguan at El Poligono, Yoro 1-3 Mar (DA). Although com- mon in wet forests in Honduras, this was in thorn forest where the species is seldom re- ported. Two Crested Caracaras were reported in Belize this spring. One seen regularly n. of the Spanish Lookout ferry crossing of the Be- lize R., Cciyo in Feb, Mar, and early Apr 0T< ph. FT, FT et al.). Specihc dates indicated were 10 & 26 Mar and around 4 Apr. Pro- viding the first documented record for s. Be- lize was an ad. seen aggressively pursuing an Osprey carrying a fish at Aguacaliente La- goon, Toledo 9 Mar (LJ). In Panama, one at Summit Ponds 30 May (KA) was at an un- usual location. Merlin is rare in spring in many parts of Central America away from the Caribbean coast, so one each in Costa Rica on Volcan Irazu, Cartago, La Gamba, Piintarcnas, and Sa- balito, Puntarenas near the Panama border 10, 25, & 28 Mar, respectively (all JZ) were note- worthy, as was one in Honduras in the Valle de Aguan 1 Mar (SC), and another in Guatemala at Los Tarrales Reserve 17 Mar (KE, JP). The Volcan Irazii bird may have been wintering, as the species is periodically reported in the cen. highlands of Costa Rica in winter. On 8 & 16 May, at least one Pere- grine Falcon pair and up to 2 other birds were seen perching and flying together at El Im- posible N.P, Almachapdn (RP). The pair was seen performing territorial displays — diving, circling, and calling — but nesting was not ob- served. Meanwhile, in Nicaragua, a wintering Peregrine Falcon observed at Montibelli Pri- vate Reserve, Managua 10 Feb-13 Mar (PoS, MT) was the first reported from that site. RAILS THROUGH PHALAROPES The rarely seen Uniform Crake was reported from Panama, Costa Rica, and Belize this spring. Two were located near the Continen- tal Divide Trail, Fortuna, Chiriqui 5 May, and one was heard on the same date at Chiriqui Grande (both DM, WA). In Costa Rica, one was seen repeatedly from 10 Feb+ in Santa Teresa de Sabalito, Puntarenas (CM, FO), an interior valley adjacent to Panama. Very rare and local in the s. Pacific in- terior, this was the first reported from the Coto Brus region. In Belize, one was seen 11 Mar (LJ, BF) near the visitor center in C.B.W.S., where it is known to occur but is seldom reported. A Paint-billed Crake in the La Gamba rice-growing area of Puntarenas 25 Mar (JZ) was in the same spot where jS col- lected a dead individual 28 Feb and a live bird was seen 6 Mar (PM). Two Southern Lapwings by a golf course in Cariari-Herradura, Heredia 18 Apr QW) were apparently the first in the Central Valley for this recently established species in Costa Rica. American Golden-Plover is rarely reported in El Salvador, so a spate of records this spring was noteworthy, although per- haps due to increased ob- server effort. Four were at Rio Jiboa, La Paz 27 Mar, and 3 were present there 2 Apr (both Tj); 2 were at Las Bocanitas, La Libertad 1 1 Apr (RIP, IV); 2 were at Cerron Grande Res., Cus- catldn 13 Apr (RIP, IV); 7 were at Laguna El Jocotal, San Miguel 13 Apr (RM, MR); and one was at Bahia de Jiquilisco, Usu- lutdn 14 Apr (OK). A Collared Plover was at Gra Gra Lagoon N.R s. of Dangriga 5 Mar QD). This species is seldom reported in Belize away from shrimp farms. An Upland Sand- piper in a maize field beside Lago de Gitija 15 Apr (NH) provided only the 5th record for El Salvador and the hrst for Santa Ana. There are only a handful of records of Surf- bird for El Salvador, so a group of 4 pho- tographed at close range at Arcos del Espino, Usulutdn 2 Apr (ph. RIP) provided a rare op- portunity. Records of Red Knot in El Salvador are few, and the first spring record came as re- cently as Apr 2004. Therefore, a group of 5 at Bahia de Jiquilisco 14 Apr (OK, EM, ST, JJ) was worth noting. As the world population continues to decline dramatically, reports of knots may become even rarer. Five Pectoral Sandpipers at Aguacaliente Lagoon 3 Mar (LG, BF, et al.) matched the earliest arrival date on record for this species in Belize. In El Salvador, a group of 700 at Cerron Grande Res. 13 Apr was exceptional, as were 260 Stilt Sandpipers there the same day (ph. RIP, IV). Five more Stilt Sandpipers were at Laguna El Jocotal 13 Apr (RM, MR). In with a flock of Red-necked Phalaropes 30 km s. of Punta Blanca off the sw. tip of the Osa Pen. 4 Apr were 4 Red Phalaropes (]Z, ph. JPE et al). This species is a rare but probably regular mi- grant in the Pacific off Costa Rica. Additional- ly, 6 Red Phalaropes were seen on the 3 Mar pelagic trip about 30 km off the coast of Almachapdn QRS, ph. TJ). There are few pre- vious records for El Salvador. GULLS THROUGH CUCKOOS An ad. Swallow-tailed Gull in alternate plumage seen in a spotlight beam for 10 min- utes around 7:45 p.m. while circling a boat 71 km wsw. of Punta Guiones 9 Apr (RG, PM, BY, JZ) provided only the 3rd record for Cos- ta Rica, and at 9° 44’ N was the farthest n. yet reported. Providing the first report for El Sal- vador since 1991, an imm. Sabine’s Gull molt- ing into ad. plumage was seen at El Majahual, La Libertad 12 Apr (ph. RIP, IV). With only two previous records for El Salvador, a single Brown Noddy at Rio Jiboa, La Paz 13 May was a big surprise and the first with docu- mentary evidence (ph. TJ). One or 2 Sooty The first Sabine's Gull reported in El Salvador since 1 991, this bird was seen at El Majahual beach, La Libertad Department 1 2 April 2007. Photograph by Ricardo Ibarra Portillo. 522 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS CENTRAL AMERICA Terns on each of three pelagic trips off Golfi- to, Tambor, and Los Suenos in Mar and Apr (CS, SW, PH, JZ) were the first reported on the Pacific pelagic day-trips run off Costa Rica in recent years. An exceptionally high count of 400 Least Terns at Isla San Sebastian, Usu- lutdn 14 Apr was double the previous maxi- mum for El Salvador (OK, ph. EM, ST, JJ). Also exceptional were 3000 Black Terns ob- served during the 3 Mar pelagic trip off Ahuachapdn QRS, TJ), along with 1500 count- ed at Rio Jiboa 13 May (TJ). With only three previous records in El Sal- vador, 5 Roseate Terns on 14-15 Apr, includ- ing 2 at El Zapote, Ahuachapdn 14 Apr and 3 at Bocana de San Juan, Sonsonate 15 Apr (both RIP, AEA), were exceptional. Could this species be an overlooked but regular transient on the Pacific coast, or was this simply an ex- ceptional year? A single Eorster’s Tern was at Bahia dejiquilisco 13 Apr (OK, EM, ST, JJ). Another was at Rio Jiboa 15 Apr, and 2 were there 29 Apr (TJ). With only eight previous records for El Salvador, 4 birds in one month was unusual, although Apr was the month with most previous records. In the vicinity of Panama City, Elegant Terns were seen on sev- eral occasions in Mar: 30 were in Santa Clara 13 Mar, 3 were in Panama City 20 Mar (both CAr), and 10 were in Panama City 31 Mar (LN); also, 3 were at Amador 24 Mar (LN). Elsewhere in Panama, 3 at Venado Beach, Los Santos 20 May (BA, CAh, SA, DM, DeM) pro- vided the first provincial record. Two Poma- rine Jaegers 5 km off Santa Rosa on Guatemala’s Pacific coast 28 Apr (PV, ph. VD), while not unexpected, nonetheless pro- vided the first photographic documentation of this species for the country. An exhausted Parasitic Jaeger found on a beach at Cutuco, La Union 27 Apr (ph., fide RIP) furnished only the 5 th record for El Salvador. A group of 15 White-crowned Pigeons was in Sittee River Village, Stann Creek 9 Apr (PB). Given previous reports of the species in coastal areas of the mainland near Dangriga during the breeding season, a mainland breed- ing site for this insular species is suggested. A Gray-headed Dove 20 Mar QV) brought out into the open with a tape-recording on Oxbow Lake Trail in Carara N.R, Puntarenas provided a solid report for a confusing species whose distribution is poorly understood outside of its strongholds in the Nicoya Pen., Cord. Gua- nacaste, and n. Caribbean lowlands of Costa Rica. As with Collared Forest-Ealcon (see above), a Ruddy Quail-Dove was mist-netted in arid thorn forest in Valle de Aguan, El Poli- gono 1 Mar (DA) where the species was not expected. Two Pheasant Cuckoos were report- ed in Costa Rica this spring; 1 heard 1 Mar at Las Alturas (jZ, AO, JG) and another heard 3 Apr at Durika (JZ) 35 km n. of Las Alturas, both on the Pacific slope of Cordillera Tala- manca. Supported by other reports of this elu- sive species from the Las Alturas area in the past two years, this may be the most reliable spot in Costa Rica to find the species. OWLS THROUGH KINGFISHERS Rarely reported in El Salvador, a Spectacled Owl was at Normandia, Usulutdn 12 May (CE). An Ocellated Poorwill was heard in late Mar (CS) at Crucitas de San Carlos, about 45 km se. of Los Chiles on the Rio San Juan, Ala- Juela. The only other Costa Rican records have come from the extreme nw. part of the Caribbean lowlands near Brasilia. This bird, at the Nicaraguan border, was much farther e. in central Costa Rica. As nightjars often go unnoticed, this species may be an established, albeit overlooked, resident in this area. Pro- viding a first locality record, a Dusky Nightjar was heard near the Continental Divide Trail, Fortuna 5 & 7 May (DM, WA). Northern Po- too is seldom reported in Guatemala, at least in part because of its nocturnal habit, so one seen 17 Mar at Patrocinio Reserve, Quetzalte- na7'igo (ph. KE, CA) was considered notewor- thy. More interesting, though, '.vas a pair found nesting in Los Tarrales Reserve 1 Apr (KE, CA). Both members of the pair took turns incubating. Rarely seen from the Canopy Tower, Panama was a Black Swift ob- served 30 May OoP, KA). White-tipped Sicklebills are recently turn- ing up much farther n. on the s. Pacific slope of Costa Rica. After being reported only as far n. as Parrita until recently, 3 were seen this spring for the first time in the Carara area: one along Oxbow Lake Trail 17 Mar (GR), an- other in the same area in late Mar (KEa), and a 3rd at Pura Vida Gardens, up the road from Hotel Villa Lapas, in the mts. behind Carara N.R 27 Apr (RG). It will be interesting to see if this species persists in the area or if this is only a temporary seasonal expansion. Always of interest in the Belize lowlands, a Brown Vi- olet-ear was seen in mid-Apr on the outskirts of Punta Gorda (PHe). A female Black-crested Coquette in the Patrocinio Reserve in Guatemala 29 Mar (KE) and another female in the Belize Botanical Gardens 6 km s. of San Ignacio, Cayo 3 May QoG) were at localities where the species had not been previously recorded. A male Blue-throated Goldentail made a one-day appearance at The Lodge at Big Falls, Toledo 16 May (R&MH, fide LJ). There are only two previous records for Be- lize. Providing a first record for Bocas del Toro was a Blue-throated Goldentail at Isla Escudo de Veraguas 12 Apr (AK, TB). Easily the most abundant hummingbird in Belize, the Rufous-tailed Hummingbird is, however, virtually unrecorded on the Belize cayes. A well-documented bird on Northeast Caye, Glovers Reef Atoll 8 Apr (PB) provided This Spotted Woodcreeper photographed 13 May 2007 is only the fourth recorded in El Salvador and the second recorded at the bird monitoring station in the cloud forest of Montecristo National Park. The species is apparently a very rare resident or occasional visitor to the country's cloud forests. Photograph by Roselvy Juarez. VOlUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 523 CENTRAL AMERICA This female Gray-collared Becard netted in El Salvador's pine-oak forest on 8 April 2007 represents just the third record for Montecristo National Park. Photograph by Vicky Galdn. the first record for the outer cayes. A Ruby- throated Hummingbird in Belmopan 22 Apr (PB) matched the latest spring date on record for Belize. In Honduras, a pair of Mountain Trogons was seen at a nest at the summit of Cerro Uyuca, Francisco Morazdn 10 Mar (DA). Although not unexpected, few nests of this species have been reported in the Region. Also of interest were an ad. male and 2 juv. Re- splendent Quetzals in the same area 10-12 Mar (DA). This record may be of conservation in- terest because the extent of cloud forest on Uyuca is small, amounting to 250 ha, and the pine forests below are extensively burned most years, potentially jeopardizing its continued presence in the area. An Amazon Kingfisher at Rio Guaco, Morazdn 8 Mar provided a new lo- cality record for El Salvador (RIP, AEA). WOODPECKERS THROUGH WAXWINGS In Panama, an Olivaceous Piculet was at the Gamboa Ammo Dump, Colon 16 Apr OCG), where rare. A bird showing characteristics of both Hoffman's and Golden-fronted Wood- peckers was photographed at Rio Torola, Morazdn 8 Mar QTG)- There is one previous record of a hybrid in El Salvador and one record of an apparently pure Hoffman’s. The first Black-banded Woodcreeper ever recorded in El Salvador was trapped at the SalvaNATU- RA banding station in the cloud forest at Mon- tecristo N.E, Santa Ana 6 Apr (ph. VG, RJ, CZ, GF, ARE). Remarkably, a Spotted Woodcreeper, only the 4th documented for the country, was trapped at the same banding station 13 May (ph. VG, RJ, CZ, IV). Another individual was banded there 22 Mar 2006. A pair of Bare- crowned Antbirds near Aguacaliente Lagoon 14 Mar (LJ) was at a new locality. This species is being reported with increasing frequency in s. Belize where it is likely on the increase as it takes advantage of the proliferation of second- growth forest in the Region. Two Olive-sided Elycatchers at Red Bank, Stann Creek 6 Mar QD) and one at Ben's Bluff, C.B.W.S. 11 Mar (MH, JH) may have been wintering, as was a singing Willow Flycatcher at The Dump, Toledo 18 Mar (LJ). A female Gray-collared Becard was netted in the Mon- tecristo pine-oak forest 8 Apr (ph. VG, RJ, CZ, GF, ARL). There are few reports of this species in El Salvador, and this bird represented only the 3rd record for Montecristo N.P. Three Bare-necked Umbrellabirds were found in a two-day period: one each on 6 May along the Continental Divide Trail, Chiriqui and the 3 de Noviembre Trail, Palo Seco Protection Forest, Bocas del Toro, and another 7 May at Bijao, Fortuna (DM, WA); also at Palo Seco was a Sharpbill 8 May. These two species are infre- quently reported in Panama. The Blue-headed Vireo that wintered in Belmopan was last seen 22 Apr (PB). This wintering individual pro- vided the 3rd documented record for Belize and the 2nd from this site. In Costa Rica, War- bling Vireos were seen along the Oxbow Lake Trail 17 Mar QV) and at Hotel Villa Lapas in late Mar (DVP), both in Carara N.P These were the 2nd and 3rd reports this winter for this casual species. On Glovers Reef Atoll, a Black-whiskered Vireo seen 6 Apr (PB) pro- vided only the 5th record for Belize, the 2nd for Glovers Reef. As would be expected, all have been from the cayes, and all have been seen in spring between 22 Mar and 22 May. An apparently late migrant Tree Swallow was on Glovers Reef Atoll 7 Apr (PB). This species is among the last to arrive in Central America in fall and the first to leave in spring. Providing a first record for Caquipec Mt., Alta Verapaz was an American Dipper at Sequixpur, 18 km se. of San Pedro Carcha 30 Apr (RC). In Belize, White-throated Robin is normally re- stricted to elevations above 600 m; however, a group of 8 highly vocal birds 8 May near the C.B.W.S. visitor center was less than 100 m above sea level QB) and likely signified a small, recently established lowland population. Sev- eral birds have been seen consistently at this popular birding destination over the past three years (LJ, JB et ah). The influx of Cedar Waxwings into the Region this winter contin- ued into spring. In Costa Rica, waxwings were widespread, occurring mostly in small flocks ranging from 6 to 29 birds; however, 300 were in the Altamira area on the Pacific slope of Cordillera Talamanca 3 Mar (several ob- servers). In Guatemala, the species was wide- spread, with numbers ranging from 10 to 50 per report. The latest occurrences were 15 May at Naranjo, Alajuela QZ) and 16 May in the Chelemha Reserve, Alta Verapaz (KE). WARBLERS A well-studied Orange-crowned Warbler in Costa Rica at Cariari-Herradura, Heredia 16 Apr OS) was in with a group of Tennessee Warblers. This species is seldom documented in Central America s. of the Guatemala high- lands. A Northern Parula, only the 6th for El Salvador, was found in mangroves at Nor- mandia 9 Mar (RIP). Two Northern Parulas were seen in the Los Tarrales Reserve 18 Mar (KE,JP, JDe). The species is rare in Guatemala away from the Caribbean lowlands. Two Mag- nolia Warblers on the outskirts of Belmopan, Belize 12 May (PB) were late spring migrants. Black-throated Blue Warblers were reported this spring from two localities on the main- land: in Panama, a male was at Chiriqui Grande 6 May (CAh), and in Guatemala, a male was seen 19 Apr (ph. CA) at 2000 m in the Chelemha Reserve, where it had not pre- viously been recorded. Winter 2006-2007 was not noteworthy for Yellow-rumped Warblers, so a worn female at Las Alturas 8 Apr QZ, AO, JG) was of interest. Only one other was re- ported in Costa Rica this winter. Golden-cheeked Warbler continues to be reported in Costa Rica after first being docu- 524 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS ■' CENTRAL AMERICA merited in autumn 2002. A female at Cedral, Cerros de Escazu on the s. border of the Cen- tral Valley 8 Apr (RD, DMac, LSt) was the country’s 5th. All have been found in the highlands surrounding the Central Valley, and all but one have been females. Although nw. Nicaragua is within the species’ accepted win- ter range, it is not often reported there, so a male seen at 1350 m in El Jaguar Private Re- serve, Jinoteca 4 Mar (LC) is worth reporting. In El Salvador, one at Montecristo N.R 6 Apr (VG) provided a late record, as this species usually has departed the Region by the end of Mar. Also worth noting is a Yellow-throated Warbler seen at Fortuna 5 May (WA); this species is rare in Panama. A male Prairie War- bler at Pelican Beach, Dangriga 5 Mar QD) was at the same site where reported last year. This species is not often seen on the main- land. Tying the latest spring date for the species in Belize was a Palm Warbler on Glovers Reef Atoll 3 May (PB). A female Blackpoll Warbler was mist-net- ted at La Isla de San Vito, Puntarenas 14 Apr (CM, FO) and recaptured 16 days later. Most Costa Rica records are from Nov-jan; few are from spring. The only Cerulean Warbler re- ported in Costa Rica this spring was a male seen 3 Apr at Kekbldi, Limon (DMar, JR). A Hooded Warbler was seen in the Patrocinio Reserve 29 Mar (KE, CA). This species is rare in winter on the Pacific slope of n. Central America. Exceptionally late was a Wilson’s Warbler in the Chelemha Reserve 27 May (KE). A Red-faced Warbler was observed at Montecristo N.R, Santa Ana 6 Apr (VG), pro- viding only the 3rd spring report for El Sal- vador. The orange-breasted Yellow-breasted Chat found at Sabalito 27 Feb was still pres- ent 28 Mar (JZ). Following the report of Gray-throated Chats in two localities within C.B.W.S. 29 & 31 Dec was a report of one from yet another locality within C.B.W.S. 11 Mar (LJ). Whether or not this uncommon but widely distributed species in Belize has re- cently colonized this heavily birded park or has been overlooked before is unknown. SWALLOW TANAGER THROUGH ORIOLES Providing the westernmost record for the species was a male Swallow Tanager at Diablo Heights, Panama City 17-18 Mar (C&BT). This species is very rare w. of e. Darien. The peripatetic Grassland Yellow-Finch is as un- predictable as the Slate-colored Seedeater. In some areas (e.g., near Burrell Boom, Belize), it can be reliably found year after year; in other areas, it will appear for only a year, or less, be- fore moving on. Such appears to be the case for The Dump ricefields 20 km nw. of Punta Gorda, where flocks of 65 and 40 were re- ported in Nov and Dec, respectively. On 8 Mar, only 15 were seen (LJ), and none have been seen in the area since. Apparently, they were only wintering. Only recently reported from the Monteverde area around Santa Ele- na, a Prevost’s Ground-Sparrow was at the San Gerardo Biological Station in mid-Mar (KEa). This bird was farther down on the Caribbean slope than any reported previously. A Lark Sparrow at La Angostura, Perez Zeledbn, San Jose 29 Mar QZ) provided the 6th record for Costa Rica and the 2nd from the San Isidro de El General area. First record- ed in Panama in 2003, a Grayish Saltator at Paso Ancho above Volcan in Mar and Apr QC) was the first reported e. of westernmost Bocas del Toro and provided the first provin- cial record for Chiriqui. This species contin- ues to expand its range into s. Costa Rica as well, but more advanced on the Caribbean side where it recently reached Panama. On the Pacific slope, it was first reported from about 700 m in the hills behind Uvita on 3 Jan 2006. One seen 2 May at Copal de Agua Bue- na, 1 km w. of the Wilson Botanical Gardens (CM, FO), was only 5 km from the Panama border and represented a major expansion to the south. Rare in Alta Verapaz, which is on Guatemala’s Caribbean slope, was a Spot- breasted Oriole at Coban 25 Mar (RC). Contributors (country coordinators in bold- face); William Adsett, Ana Eugenia Aguilar, Bill Ahrens, Claudia Ahrens (CAh), Ken Al- laire, Solange Anchor, Carol C. Anderson, David Anderson (Honduras), George Angehr (Panama), George Armistead (GAr), Claudia Avendano, Philip Balderamos, Car- los Bettancourt, Jim Beveridge, Timothy Bil- lo, Rob Cahill, Liliana Chavarria (LCh), San- tiago Claramunt, James Cone, Lori Conrad, Mark Conrad, Aura Cruz, Vanessa Davila, Robert Dean, John Deppman QDe), Jon Dunn, Georges Duriaux, Kevin Easley (KEa), Knut Eisermann (Guatemala), Juan Pablo Elizondo, Bert Frenz, Carlos Funes, Guillermo Funes, Vicky Galan, Jose Carlos Garcia, Joe Garel OoG). Richard Garrigues, Julie Girard, Leonard Graf, Jose Tobias Gue- vara, Carlos Guindon, Peter Harrington, Nestor Herrera, Peter Herrera (PHe), Rob and Marta Hirons, Mark Hubinger, Joanie Hubinger, Ricardo Ibarra Portillo, Tom Jen- ner (El Salvador), Jorge Jimenez, Lee Jones (Belize), Roselvy Juarez, Oliver Komar, An- drew Kratter, Ana Rosa Lopez, Dorothy MacKinnon (DMac), Paco Madrigal, Romain Martin, Daniel Martinez (DMar), Esmeralda Martinez, Chase Mendenhall, Darien Mon- tanez, Delicia Montanez (DeM), Lelis Navarete, Allison Olivieri, Federico Oviedo, Jose Perez QoP), Ricardo Perez, Jeffrey Pe- ters, Marvin Rivas, Gary Rosenberg, Pomares Salmeron (PoS), Cesar Sanchez, Julio Sanchez, Luis Sandoval, Jose Roberto Santa- maria, Jose Serafin Gomez, Pablo Somarriba, Lyn Statten (LSt), Marvin Torres, Sofia Tru- jillo, Christy and Ben Turner, Eric Tut, Fer- nando Tut, Jeronie Tut, Jay Vandergast, David Vander Pluym, Iselda Vega, Pilar de Maria Velasquez, Soo Whiting, John Williamson, Bruce Young, Carlos Zaldaha, Jim Zook (Costa Rica). ^ H. Lee Jones, 901 East Washington Street, Apt. 126 Colton, California 92324, (leeJones@att.net) Oliver Komar SaivaNATURA Conservation Science Program 33 Avenida Sur #640, San Salvador, El Salvador (okomar@salvanatura.org) North American Birds A QUARTERLY JOURNAL OF ORNITHOLOGICAL RECORD "The premier periodical dealing with status and distribution of North American birds." , — Kenn Kaufman "Why should you subscribe? Quite simply, you should subscribe to become a bet- ter birder," —Jon Dunn AmericanBirding* Subscriptions are available for $32 for US or $37 for Canadian. Renew or give a Gift Subscription, today • (800) 850-2473 VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 525 West Indies & Bermuda /' SO. CAROLINA GEORGIA - FLORIDA sSSl the BAHAMAS ^ .New Providence I. ^'^leuthera I. ^ — San Salvador OCEAN Mava2a,>_^<_.^ CAYMAN IS.. '^'^wkedf. TURKS & Acu^ CAICOS IS. ^Greatlnagua VIRGIN Puerto a /is. JAMAICA WmooMlSAl . ■C '*EP. LESSER CARIBBEAN SEA , u t 1 , . c ^ annao «Stl,»3 Amba ] ® “ /O A < '•Bonaire Grenada/ ■ Providence I. • St. Andrew I. 40W(TO/Cv£NEkELA^^^'^^- “■TTrnrwted Anthony White Robert L. Norton Andrew Dobson C"' Lr: lobal warming is expected to hasten -spring migration, and the ever-earlier arrival dates of Gray Kingbird and Black-whiskered Vireo in the Bahamas sup- port that prediction. The number of new latest departure dates from Guadeloupe appears to conflict with the prediction but may be as- cribed to more thorough coverage and report- ing. Spring is a nesting season in our Region, and there are reports of early nesting by Pied- billed Grebes and Ospreys and of ground-nest- ing by Bahama Mockingbirds. Venezuelan or- nithologists surveyed a huge tern colony on Aves Island this season. A severe late-winter storm moving up the Eastern Seaboard of the United States in mid-April brought record numbers of Eastern Kingbirds and Summer and Scarlet Tanagers to Bermuda. The Bahamas also had an unusually large number of Scarlet Tanagers. Seawatches at Guade- loupe provided most of the seabird records for the Region, and large numbers of moorhens, coots, and swallows were found on that island. Rarities for the season included Ross’s Goose (Bahamas), Garganey (Guadeloupe and Bermuda), Gray Heron (Bermuda), Little Egret (Martinique and Antigua), White Stork (Martinique; older record). Great Black-backed Gull (Nevis), Short-eared Owl (Bahamas), White-collared Swift (Guade- loupe), and Orchard Oriole (Ba- hamas). Birding tours of Domini- can Republic and the Lesser An- tilles enabled participants to see the endangered endemics of those is- lands; only a few highlights are list- ed here. We are still looking for res- ident reporters from both the Greater and Lesser Antilles (except for Guadeloupe). GEESE THROUGH FALCONS The Canada Goose at Reef G.C., Grand Ba- hama was last reported 3 Mar (BP). An imm. Canada Goose was seen at Spittal Pond and Princess Pond, Bermuda 5-15 Apr (DBW, AD), while another flew over Spittal Pond 16 May (KR). The Ross’s Goose that wintered at Reef G.C. was last seen 17 Mar (EG). Some 102 West Indian Whistling-Ducks were at Bethesda Dam, Antigua 29 Apr OR AO); only 8 were at McKinnon Salt Pond, Antigua 17-18 Apr QVG et al.). In the Bahamas, 2 ads. with 3 young were at Tarpon Pond, Andros 6 May (CW, ALa), and another pair flew over Georgetown Harbour, Great Exuma 15 May (LK). A male Mallard at Eortune Bay, Grand Bahama 5 May (BP) was unusual. An Ameri- can Wigeon was on Port Royal G.C., Bermu- da 14 Mar (IE, PW). A White-cheeked Pintail was found at Reef G.C. 12 May+ (EG, ph. NB, m.ob.). Surprisingly, this is the first report of this species from Grand Bahama. Two male Garganeys were at Gaschet Res., Guadeloupe 8 Mar QF)- A male at Jubilee Rd. 19-23 Apr (DW) and a female at Spittal Pond 7-26 May (EA, DBW) provided Bermuda’s 3rd and 4th records of Garganey. A pair of Green-winged Teal was at Gaschet Res. 9 Mar (AL), and a Eurasian Teal was at Jubilee Rd., Bermuda 20 Mar (IE, PW). A Lesser Scaup and a Ring- necked Duck at Gaschet Res. 4 May were the latest ever seen on Guadeloupe (ED). A Red- breasted Merganser was in Great Sound, Bermuda 24 Apr (AD). At Gaschet Res., there were counts of 16 Masked Ducks 9 Mar (ED) and 86 Ruddy Ducks 26 Mar (AL). A Pied- billed Grebe with young at Reef G.C., Grand Bahama 3 Mar was indicative of early nesting (BP). ED found 109 Pied-billed Grebes at Gaschet Res. 16 Apr. Seawatches from Guadeloupe continue to provide the majority of seabird sightings for the Region, but a watch from Bermuda also had interesting sightings (Table 1). Seventeen Sooty Shearwaters passing Cooper’s Pt., Bermuda 17 Mar (IF) were the earliest ever recorded by at least three weeks. Manx Shear- water passage peaked on the same day at 2 birds per minute. Poor weather hampered seabirding from fishing boats off Abaco; nev- ertheless, on 4 May EB saw a Black-capped Petrel, 3 Cory’s Shearwaters, 4 Greater Shear- waters, and a Sooty Shearwater e. of Abaco. On 17 May up to 16 km e. of Tilloo Cay, EB and TW found small flocks totaling about 50 Audubon’s Shearwaters that also contained 4 Cory’s Shearwaters and a Black-capped Petrel, while the next day, TW saw a lone Wilson’s Storm-Petrel off Elbow Cay. Approximately 25 White-tailed Tropicbirds were seen around Castle Rock, Acklins I., Bahamas 6-8 May; the Location Cooper's Pt., Pointe des Chateaux, Petite-Terre N.R., Petite-Terre N.R., Bermuda Guadeloupe Guadeloupe Guadeloupe Date(s) 23 Mar 19,20, 27 May Month of April Month of May Duration 2hrs 9hrs 13:45 hrs 9:45 hrs Observer(s) IF,PW AM,TB,FD,AL AL AL Bermuda Petrel 14 Cory's Shearwater 5 1 28 Greater Shearwater 2 5 Sooty Shearwater 2 Manx Shearwater 72 132 1 Audubon's Shearwater 11 7 17 large shearwater 2 small shearwater 5 20 leach's Storm-Petrel 3 7 5 Wilson's Storm-Petrel 3 5 8 unidentified storm-petrel 10 188 33 Brown Booby 1 unidentified sulid 1 Great Skua 3 South Polar Skua 1 Pomarine Jaeger 1 8 Parasitic Jaeger 2 2 23 1 long-tailed Jaeger 2 1 unidentified jaeger 16 8 526 NORIH AMERICAN BIRDS WEST INDIES & BERMUDAI This Garganey was present at Jubilee Road, Bermuda 1 9 (here) through 23 April 2007, the third record for Bermuda. A female was Garganey was also present 7-26 May 2007. Photograph by Andrew Dobson. same number was seen at Rum Cay and 10+ off Conception 1., both 18 May (all GS). A Masked Booby at Desirade I., Guadeloupe 9 Apr was a rare sighting there (AM). Two pairs of Anhingas nested at Twin Lakes, Paradise I. this spring (fide PD). A Magnificent Frigate- bird was seen at Challenger Banks off Bermu- da 24 Apr (CB). An American Bittern moved between Non- such I. and Cooper’s Pt., Bermuda 1-23 Mar QM). Single Least Bitterns were at Fort de France’s Baie Mangrove, Martinique 18 Mar (GL), Firefly N.R., Bermuda 4 Apr (DBW), and Cloverdale, Bermuda 24 Apr (EA), and 3 were at Port Louis, Guadeloupe 17 Apr (AL). A Great Blue Heron with 3 imms. on Gibbett’s 1. 16 May strongly suggested successful nest- ing in Bermuda (DBW). Bermuda’s long-stay- ing Gray Heron was present through 3 1 May and later (AD). A Little Egret was at Salines, Sainte Anne, Martinique 17 Mar (GL); anoth- er in breeding plumage (and with bright yel- low lores) was at MacKinnon Salt Pond, An- tigua 18 Apr QVG et al.). Black-crowned Night-Herons were found in Bermuda at Spit- tal Pond 5 Apr (DBW) and Pilchard Bay 15 Apr (DW). A Glossy Ibis was on the Mid- Ocean G.C., Bermuda 14 Mar-4 May (AD) and another at Ely’s Harbour 24 Apr (CB). Two ad. Ospreys with a young bird in the nest 3 Mar at Madeira Rd., Eleuthera, Ba- hamas (PD) show how early the resident birds nest. Eight Ospreys were at Port Louis Swamp, Guadeloupe 15 Mar (ED). In the Bahamas, a Swallow- tailed Kite was seen at Rock Sound, Eleuthera 1 Mar (RB, JDW, SL), and one was at the Retreat, Nassau 13 Apr (CW). A North- ern Harrier was at the Eruit Earm, Abaco 14 Apr (EB) and a Sharp-shinned Hawk at Gar- den of the Groves, Grand Bahama 4 Mar (BP). On 5 Mar, a pair of endangered Ridgway’s Hawks was nesting on the e. side of Los Hai- tises N.P., Dominican Republic (KW, BHa, EB, TW). In Bermuda, 2 Red-tailed Hawks were present through the season and had again built a nest on Morgan’s Pt. but ceased to visit it (DBW). On Guadeloupe, single Pere- grine Ealcons were reported at Saline du Gosier 28 Mar, Port Louis 12 Apr (both AL), and Pointe des Chateaux 26 Apr (ED). RAILS THROUGH HUMMINGBIRDS A Virginia Rail was last seen at South Pond, Bermuda 4 May (AD). There were high counts of 1250 Common Moorhens 13 May (AL) and 29 Caribbean Coots 16 Apr (ED) at Gaschet Res., Guadeloupe; 3 Purple Gallinules were there 26 Mar, and an imm. was at Pelletant, Port Louis 5 Apr (both AL). PD found 14 Piping Plovers on Girls Bank, Harbour L, Eleuthera 1 Mar and 8 Whimbrels at Spanish Wells the same day. A Black-necked Stilt was at Spittal Pond, Bermuda 1 May+ (KR); on 19 May, 4 stilts were at Pointe des Chateaux (AMZ) and 2 at Gaschet Res. (ED). An American Avocet at Harrold & Wilson Ponds N.P., New Provi- dence L, Bahamas 14 Mar was in alternate plumage (PD). Shorebirds at Las Salinas, Dominican Republic 12 Mar included 9 Snowy and 4 Semipalmated Plovers, 13 Black- necked Stilts, 12 Stilt Sandpipers, and 54 Least and 33 Semipalmat- ed Sandpipers (KW et al). JP and SP found 2 color-banded Snowy Plovers, 3 banded Piping Plovers, 16 Wilson Plovers, 14 Semi- palmated Plovers, 2 Marbled God- wits, and 4 Wilson’s Phalaropes at McKinnon Salt Pond, Antigua 22 Apr. A Willet was at Pointe des Chateaux 30 May (ED). A Eurasian Whimbrel discovered by IF at Stocks Harbour, Bermuda 17-20 Mar was the first since 1995 (ph. AD), and a hudsonicus Whimbrel at Petite-Terre N.R. 26 May set a new late date for Guade- loupe (AL). A Red Knot was on Cobblers L, Bermuda 16 May (DBW). Three basic- plumaged Western Sandpipers were at Cross- ing Rocks, Abaco 19 May (TW, EB, ML, MM, HP). A Pectoral Sandpiper at Pelletant, Port Louis 5 Apr established the first spring record for Guadeloupe (AL). Two Stilt Sandpipers at Pointe des Chateaux 30 May set the new late date for Guadeloupe (ED). Single Parasitic and Long-tailed Jaegers were seen off Cooper’s Pt., Bermuda 22 Mar (IF), the first of the few jaegers reported this spring. On 17 May AM, OT, and others found a Great Skua between Desirade 1. and Pointe des Chateaux — apparently the southernmost record of this species in the w. North Atlanic. A first-winter Great Black-backed Gull seen at Oualie Bay, Nevis 11-20 Mar was possibly the first for the island (ph. MML, JY, MB). Lesser Black-backed Gulls in the Region included 5 at Riviere Salee 1 Mar (AL), 8 at Bahama Bay, Bimini 11 Apr (PD), and a first-cycle bird at McKinnon Salt Pond, Antigua 18 Apr QVG et al.). At least 24 Bonaparte’s Gulls were in the Great Sound area of Bermuda 9 Mar (PW), and one bird remained at Mid-Ocean G.C. through 3 May (DBW). Fourteen Sandwich Terns were observed at Bahama Bay, Bimini 1 1 Apr (PD) and 2 at Pointe-a-Pitre, Guadeloupe 19 (TB) & 28 May (FD). JP and SP found over 400 Least Terns at McKinnon Salt Pond 22 Apr. Almost 200 Least Terns with at least 65 nests were at Petite-Terre N.R. 28 May (AL). A Common Tern was noted 23 Mar on the coast at Spittal Pond, Bermuda (PW, IF), and 5 were at Pointe-a-Pitre, Guadeloupe 27 May (FD, AL). A Black Tern in Hamilton Harbour 21 Apr (WF, DW) furnished the first spring record in Bermuda. A Black Skimmer was at Brown’s Pt., New Providence 2 May (ph. PD). On 9 Mar, EB found a flock of Plain Pi- geons near Puerto Escondido, Dominican Re- public. On Guadeloupe, 10 White-winged Doves were at Moule 5 May, 4 at Petite-Terre N.R. 21 May, and up to 12 at Pointe des Chateaux 23-28 May (AMZ, AL). A critically endangered Grenada Dove was seen and 2 others heard at Mt. Hartman, Grenada 7 Apr OVG et al.). This refuge, the species’ last stronghold, is in danger of being sold to de- velopers. Parrot searches 12-13 Apr at Syndi- cate Estates, Dominica yielded 50+ Red- necked Parrots and only one or 2 critically en- dangered Imperial Parrots QVG et al.). A Yel- low-billed Cuckoo was seen at Garden of the Groves, Grand Bahama 13 May (GK). Eive Barn Owls were observed on a tower at the ^ ' V i ' jf ^ ,v 1 ' ^ w' vl ‘ vH ' ‘ f 1: '(v- ^ - *' / V -T,' , rtV V,/r .,3 ^ ■ • y-.'{ +V s'* < ' t i f . A Common Greenshank (center) moved between several Barbados locations since its discovery on 4 February 2007 (here, East Point, 9 April) — remark- ably the sixth record from Barbados. Photograph by Edward B. Massiah. VOlUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 527 WEST INDIES & BERMUDA entrance to Coral Harbour, New Providence 18 May (CW). Two reports of Ashy- faced Owl were received. A pair of owls nesting near Sa- bana de la Mar, Dominican Republic was seen poorly and heard well 4 Mar (KW et al.); they were tentatively identified as Barn Owls based on their vocalizations, though Barn Owl is not known here. Two Tyto owls seen in sil- houette and heard at Mt. Hartman, Grenada 7 Apr (JVG et al.) were identified as Ashy-faced Owls, probably correctly, though the Ameri- can Ornithologists’ Union considers these birds to be Barn Owls. Further study is need- ed of Tyto owls throughout the Region. A Short-eared Owl on Highborne Cay, Exumas 28-30 Mar constitutes the 2nd record in the Bahamas QT, ph. NSR). There is also a record from Turks & Caicos. Arrival dates for Antil- lean Nighthawk in the Bahamas were 13 Apr at Rock Sound, Eleuthera JDW, RB) and 24 Apr at Sandyport, New Providence O^u); 3 were at Belle-Plaine Abymes, Guadeloupe 20 May (FD). Guadeloupe’s first White-col- lared Swift was reported at Pointe des Chateaux 17 May (JF). A Chimney Swift was at East End Dairy, Bermuda 16 Apr (PW), with others observed through May. On 7 Apr, a Rufous-breasted Hermit was at Grand Etang N.R, Grenada, where the species had been missed during tours since Hurricane Ivan in 2004 OVG et al.). FLYCATCHERS THROUGH MANNIKINS A wintering Eastern Phoebe was last seen at Wreck Hill, Bermuda 8 Mar (WE). A pair of Lesser Antillean (St. Lucia) Pewees at Union Forest Reserve 10 Apr was at a lower altitude than expected QVG et al.). Single Lesser An- tillean Flycatchers were at Petit-Bourg and Capesterre Belle-Eau 11 Apr (AL), and a Fork-tailed Flycatcher, the 4th for Guade- loupe, was at Dfeirade I. 9 Apr (AM). A West- ern Kingbird was at Garden of the Groves, Grand Bahama 4 Mar (BP). The first of an in- flux of about 11 Eastern Kingbirds was re- ported 14 Apr at Jubilee Rd., Bermuda. A record spring flock was at Bermuda Airport, with 8 or 9 on 20 Apr on the perimeter fence (GA, AD, DBW). Three Eastern Kingbirds were at Reef G.C., Grand Bahama 7 Apr (GK), one at the Fruit Farm, Abaco 11 Apr (EB), and one near Lucaya N.R, Grand Bahama 17 Apr (BP). Gray Kingbirds were first seen in the Bahamas at Andros 5 Apr (CW), Grand Bahama 7 Apr (BP), Rock Sound, Eleuthera 11 Apr (jW, JDW, RB), and Rainbow Farms, New Providence 17 Apr (PD, TH). Large numbers of Caribbean Martins were found at Pointe-a-Pitre, Guadeloupe this spring; counts between 456 and 620 were made 10 & 25 Mar, 5, 17, & 25 Apr, and 7, 15, & 25 May (all AL). Single male Cuban or Pur- ple Martins were seen there on 10 & 25 Mar (AL). The presence of 3 Bahama Swallows on the s. shore near the mouth of Adelaide Creek 5 May (CW) suggests that the species still breeds on New Providence. A Tree Swallow was at The Causeway, Bermuda 4 Mar (AD, JEM). CW, PM, and SH found 12+ Cave Swal- lows at Nine Tasks L. and the same number at Twin L., South Andros, Bahamas 22-23 May. Four hundred Barn Swallows were at Port Louis Swamp, Guadeloupe 2 Mar, but one at Pointe-a-Pitre 15 May set a new late date (all AL). A Ruby-crowned Kinglet at St. George’s Park, Grand Bahama 3-5 Mar was a rare find (BP et al.), and one at Wreck Rd., Bermuda re- mained until 9 Mar (WE). A Hermit Thrush was in the Arboretum, Bermuda 15 Mar (IF), and a Swainson’s Thrush was on Gwelly Lane, Bermuda 15 May (WE). AL found a Bare-eyed Robin at Port Louis, Guadeloupe 17 Apr. Three La Selle Thrushes and a Western Chat- Tanager were seen at dawn along the Domini- can/Haitian border above Zapotan, Sierra del Baoruco N.R 8 Mar (KW et al.). A Northern Mockingbird was in Hamilton, Bermuda 19 Apr (GP), and another was at Hungry Bay 21 Apr (DG). On 13 Apr, at Al- corine Cay, Middle Bight, Andros, SB found three pairs of Bahama Mockingbirds nesting on the ground inside recently burnt bushes that were sending up new shoots. A Pearly- eyed Thrasher was seen at the Retreat, Nassau 25-31 Mar (CW). Two critically endangered White-breasted Thrashers were well seen at Presqu’ile de la Caravelle, Martinique 15 Apr (JVG et al.). A White-eyed Vireo was at Gar- den of the Groves, Grand Bahama 28 Apr (EG), and single Blue-headed Vireos were at St. George’s Park, Grand Bahama 5 Mar (BP) and the Retreat, Nassau 9 Mar (CW, JB, BPr). A Yellow-throated Vireo was at Southside, Bermuda 22 Mar (IF). First reports of Black- whiskered Vireos in the Bahamas were 30 Mar at the Retreat, Nassau (CW), 31 Mar at Rain- bow Farm, New Providence (NL), 6 Apr at Grand Bahama (BP), and 9 Apr at Rock Sound, Eleuthera QW, JDW, RB). In Cuba, single ar- riving migrant Black-whiskered Vireos were found at La Guira and Cueva de los Portales 1 Mar and Hacienda Cortina and near Hotel Rancho San Vincente 2 Mar (WS, BH,JideJC). On Guadeloupe, Red-eyed Vireos were found at Pointe des Chateaux 26 Apr (FD) and 5 May (AL) and on Desirade 1. 17 (AM) & 26 May (AL), the latter a new late date. An Orange-crowned Warbler was at Hog Bay Park, Bermuda 12-16 Mar (WF). Guade- loupe’s 2nd Tennessee Warbler was banded at Pointe des Chateaux 24 Apr (AL). Two North- ern Parulas and 2 Black-throated Green War- blers on Barbuda 19 Apr QVG et al.) were good finds. A female Cape May Warbler 20 May (BM) at St. Georges G.C., Bermuda was nine days later than the previous late spring record. A Yellow-rumped Warbler was at Desirade L, Guadeloupe 8 May (AL, FD). This past winter and spring, the Kirtland’s Warbler Research and Training Project on s. Eleuthera L, Bahamas banded 38 new Kirtland’s War- blers and found 18 color-banded individuals, 2 of which had been banded in Michigan last summer (fide JDW). A Yellow Palm Warbler was photographed on Great Inagua, Bahamas 20 Mar (TH). Single Palm Warblers were at Petite Terre N.R. 8-10 & 28 May (AL, FD). A Blackburnian Warbler was n. of Forfar Field Station, Andros 6 May (CW, ALa). Recently split St. Lucia Warblers, Barbuda Warblers, and Barbados Bullfinches were found readily on their home islands mid-Apr QVG et al). A Prothonotary Warbler was at Hog Bay Park, Bermuda 4 Mar (DW) and another at Bale Mangrove, Martinique 18 Mar (GL). A Swain- son’s Warbler remained at Wreck Hill, Bermu- da until 12 Mar (WF). Two Worm-eating War- blers were at La Guira, Cuba 1 Mar (WS, BH, fide jC). In Nassau, a Wilson’s Warbler was at the Retreat 28 Mar (NL), and a Nashville War- bler was at Sans Souci 11 Mar (CW, FH). A record number of spring Summer Tan- agers occurred in Bermuda, with 6 individuals 18-21 Apr (AD). The first of a record influx of Scarlet Tanagers in Bermuda was reported 14 Apr on Mid-Ocean G.C. (RC). By the month’s end, there had been at least 20 individuals re- ported, with 7 on 19 Apr (m.ob.). Scarlet Tan- agers were also well represented in the Ba- hamas: 3 at Marsh Harbour, Abaco 16 Apr (DR), one near Port Lucaya, Grand Bahama 18 Apr (BP), 4 males at Chub Cay, Berry Is. 18 Apr (PD), one at St. George’s Park, Grand Ba- hama 19 Apr (BP), singles at the Fruit Farm, Abaco 18 & 21 Apr (EB), and one at Bahama Palm Shores, Grand Bahama 20 Apr (BN). In Guadeloupe, single male Scarlet Tanagers were at Pointe des Chateaux 8 (AL, FD) & 24 May (AR). Two Chipping Sparrows were on Mid- Ocean G.C. 23 Mar (EA), and a White-throat- ed Sparrow was at Hog Bay Park, Bermuda on 4-5 Mar (DW). A Savannah Sparrow was at Windemere, Eleuthera 24-25 Mar (EJ). Cuban Grassquits were reported from Overyonder Cay Exumas (fide CW), where they had prob- ably been released by well-meaning yachts- men. Rose-breasted Grosbeaks were recorded in above-average numbers throughout Bermu- da, with groups of up to 5 birds visiting sever- al bird feeders 20-30 Apr (fide AD). Two Blue Grosbeaks were at Cooper’s L, Bermuda 24 Apr (EA). An Indigo Bunting at Petite Terre N.R., Guadeloupe 28 May was late (AL, ASA). 528 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS WEST INDIES & BERMUDA On 9 May, BP found 300+ Bobolinks at the poultry farm n. of the Grand Bahama High- way. There could have been hundreds more, as he only flushed the ones near the road. Two Bobolinks were at Pitman’s Pond, Bermuda 13-15 May (DBW). Further evidence of Shiny Cowbird’s establishment on New Providence I. was the group of 12-15 at Rainbow Farms, Cowpen Rd. 31 Mar (NL), one at Mount Pleasant Village 4 Apr (CW), and 2 at St. Au- gustine’s Monastery 29 Apr (PD, ph. TH). On 13 Apr, 5 critically endangered Montserrat Orioles were present in the Centre Hills along with 4 Forest Thrushes and 3 Brown Trem- blers OVG et al., fide MK). There are fewer than five reports of Orchard Oriole from the Bahamas. A mixed flock of 4 Baltimore Ori- oles and 4 Orchard Orioles (2 first-year males and 2 females) near Shirley Street, Nassau 18- 22 May (ph. TH, PD) provided the first docu- mented record for the country. Five Hispan- iolan Crossbills were near the upper end of the Alcoa Rd., Sierra del Baoruco N.P., Do- minican Republic 9-10 Mar (KW et al.), a typ- ical location. Nutmeg Mannikins were noted on Dominica QVG et al.). Addenda: GL reported and photographed a White Stork in ne. Martinique near the mouth of Riviere du Lorrain 5 Feb. The first West Indian report of a White Stork was at Antigua 14 Aug 1993 (NG). Venezuelan ornithologists (RL, DE, and JPa) surveyed Aves 1. (15° 40’ N, 63°37’ W) in Feb and found 12,100 breeding pairs of Sooty Terns and 5500 breeding pairs of Brown Noddies. If they had been able to con- duct the survey later in the season, the num- bers would have been even higher. Observers: AMAZONA (Guadeloupe NGO) (AMZ), Eric Amos, Gerry Ardis, Rudy Badia, Thomas Bouchara, Elwood Bracey, Noreen Brent, Margot Britton, Julie Brownie, Jolika Buckner QBu), Sandra Buckner, Chris Burville, Rob Chandler, Julie Craves, Paul Dean, An- drew Dobson, Frantz Duzont, Diana Esclasans, Ian Fisher, Wendy Frith, Jacky Froidefond, Erika Gates, Derek Gibbons, Nathan Gricks, Bruce Hallett (BHa), Faye Hands, Sharon Hen- field, Bud Henning, Tony Hepburn, Everton Joseph, Martyn Kenefick, Geana Knowles, Lee Kristofs, Anthony Laquidara (ALa), Samara Lawrentz, Rodrigo Lazo, Gilles Leblond, Nick Lethaby, Anthony Levesque (AL), Michael Lightbourn, Mark Michael Ludlow (MML), Je- remy Madeiros QM), Mike Mathos, Alain Mathurin, Blake Mathys, John Meadows (JEM), Predensa Moore, Bill Nielsen, Andrea Otto, Juan Papadakis 0Pa)> George Peterich, Hagen Peters, Beverley Price (BPr), Junior Prosper, Shanee Prosper, Bruce Purdy, Armelle Rio, Darin Roberts, Nikita Shiel Rolle (NSR), Keith Rossiter, Alain Saint-Auret (ASA), Geoff Schultz, William Suarez, John Thompson, Olivier Tostain, Jay VanderGaast (Field Guides, Inc. Tour) QVG), David Wallace (DW), Kate Wallace, Carolyn Wardle, Paul Watson, Jennifer D. White QDW), Tony White, David Wingate (DBW), Joe Wunderle, John Yearwood. (© Anthony White, 6540 Walhonding Road Bethesda, Maryland 20816, (spindalis@aol.com) Robert L. Norton, 8960 Waldo Road Gainesville, Florida 32609, (Corvus0486@aol.com) Andrew Dobson, 117 Middle Road Warwick PG 01, Bermuda (Adobson@warwickacad.bm) Hawaiian Islands | Robert L. Pyle Peter Donaldson Spring can be a very quiet season in the Hawaiian Islands, but this year we re- ceived good numbers of observations. A few very rare migrants that lingered into the spring provided some excitement, but there was bad news about the native forest birds on Kaua’i Island. The weather was generally dry, but the one rainy period was disruptive for native waterbirds. Abbreviations: EES. (French Frigate Shoals, Hawaiian Islands N.W.R.); H. (Hawai'i L); HRBP (Hawaii Rare Bird Documentary Photo- graph; used with image catalog number from the HRBP file at Bishop Museum, Honolulu); Hakalau (Hakalau N.W.R., Hawai'i 1.); Hanalei (Hanalei N.W.R., Kaua'i L); Honouli- uli (Honouliuli Unit of Pearl Harbor N.W.R., 0‘ahu L); K. (Kaua'i L); Kanaha (Kanaha Pond, Maui L); Kealia (Kealia Pond N.W.R., Maui L); Kii (Ki'i Unit of James Campbell N.W.R., O'ahu L); Kokee (Koke'e S.P., Kaua'i L); K.P. (Kilauea Pt. N.W.R., Kaua'i L); M. (Maui L); Midway (Midway Atoll N.W.R.); O. (O'ahu L); Ohiapilo ('Ohi'apilo Pond, Molo- ka'i L); Pouhala (Pouhala Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary, O'ahu L); Waiawa (Waiawa Unit of Pearl Harbor N.W.R., O'ahu L); Waikamoi (Waikamoi Preserve, Maui L). WATERFOWL THROUGH PHEASANTS A Greater White-fronted Goose remained at Kualapu'u Res., Moloka'i 1. Mar-9 May (ADY), and one that has been at Waiakea Pond, H. for several years was joined by an- other 18-20 Apr (DL). A Snow Goose lin- gered at Kawai'ele, K. Mar-26 Apr (VE.N.T., EV, RD); another was at Kealia Mar-5 Apr (MN). A Brant was at Hanalei Mar-30 Apr (BZ). Greater White-fronteds are rare in the Region, but Snow Geese are even rarer, while Brant are uncommon. Two imm. Bewick’s Swans that had been on Moloka'i 1. were last seen mid-Mar at Kualapu'u Res. (ADY). Two Whistling Swans, first seen 30 Jan, lingered at the Kauai Lagoons, K. through at least 8 Mar (S&PS). Both of these subspecies of Tundra Swan are very rare in the Region. A Gadwall that had frequented Waiakea Pond, H. since Jan (m.ob.) remained Apr+. A flock of 4 Garganeys was observed on Laysan 1. 15-21 Mar (CM, KP, CT). Both species are rare in the Region. The last reports of diving ducks were 4 Ring-necked Ducks and 14 Lesser Scaup at Kualapu'u Res., Moloka'i 1. (ADY). 529 VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 HAWAIIAN ISLANDS i Five Black Francolins were found near Makakilo, O. 4 May (EV). Black Francolins have rarely been reported on 0‘ahu, but they seem to have increased in abundance recently in w. 0‘ahu. Common Peafowl were found to be abundant over a large area of s. Maui I. in May. The birds ranged from near sea level to 1600 m (RD). Common Peafowl have been long established in the Region, but we seldom get much information on their abundance. ALBATROSSES THROUGH FALCONS Two Short-tailed Albatrosses (Endangered) were observed on Midway. An ad. frequented Sand I. near a group of decoys Oct 2006-7 Mar, while an imm. was seen mainly on East- ern I. Oct through at least 7 Mar QK)- Single Red-billed Tropicbirds were observed on Ni- hoa I. 24 Mar (IJ, CR, CS) and in Waimanalo O. 2 (EV, LY) & 10 Apr (MW). Two Red- billeds were observed in Waimanalo 1-4 Apr (EV, LY). Red-billeds are rare in the Region but have been reported fairly regularly in the Among the waterfowl that lingered well into the spring of 2007 was this drake Gadwall photographed at Waiakea Pond on the Big Island of Hawaii on 8 April. Gadwall is rare in the Hawaiian Islands region, and most Gadwalls that are discovered are too shy to be photographed well. This bird was in a pond where resident ducks and geese are fre- quently fed and was much tamer than the usual migrant ducks in the region. Photograph by Michael Walther. past few years. A Nazca Booby was observed at EES. 30 Mar (U.S. Eish & Wildlife Service). This is the 3rd report in the Region for the species, which was split from Masked Booby in 2000. Observers on Laysan 1. discovered a Brewsters Brown Booby 7 Apr (CM, KP, CT). Another Lesser Frigatebird was seen at EES. 31 May (U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service). An imm. Great Blue Heron was observed at K.R 26 Mar (DL, m.ob.), and an imm. remained in Kahuku, 0. Dec-28 Mar (MS). Great Blues are rare but regular in the Region. A White- faced Ibis remained on Moloka'i 1. Mar+ (ADY), and another was at Kii Mar-26 Apr (MS). A single White-faced was observed 19 Mar at Kealia (DP, m.ob.). Three White-faced Ibis were seen at Honouliuli 25 Mar (PD); 2 re- mained 11 Apr (MS). An ibis at Honouliuli 25 Apr (MS) represented the last report of the sea- The reports on Kaua'i I. forest birds are discourag- ing. David Kuhn reports that the 'Akikiki (Endan- gered) continues its decline. Even more disturbing, the population of the Akeke'e, which is not even listed feder- ally as Endangered, has crashed. According to David, oth- er native birds, including the Anianiau, Kaua'i Amakihi, 'I'iwi, and Apapane have also declined in the past several years. Sadly, there may not be much anyone can do. Ac- cording to Eric VanderWerf, many native forest birds are extremely vulnerable to mosquito-borne diseases, and disease-bearing mosquitoes are moving into higher ele- vations that used to be mosquito-free. son. Plegadis ibises are historically rare in the Region but have been reported regularly since a flock of 10 appeared on Kaua'i I. in autumn 2003. So far, all the birds that have been identi- fied to species have been White-faced. Single Peregrine Falcons were observed at Kealia 3 Mar (fide MN), at Ka- neohe 0. 22 Mar (DN) and at K.R 18 Apr (EV, BZ). SHOREBIRDS THROUGH PASSERINES Dry weather produced poor conditions for Hawaiian Stilts (Endangered) on Maui 1., and numbers there were very low (MN). Rainfall averaged near normal on 0‘ahu 1., but rainy weather in Mar and dry weather later in the season disrupted nesting (MS, PD). A Sharp-tailed Sandpiper was observed at Kii 27 Mar (PD), and 3 were present on Laysan 1. 4-21 Apr (CM, KP, CT). Sharp-taileds are regular in the fall but very rare in the spring. A Dunlin in alternate plumage was observed at Ohi- apilo 22 May (ADY). Pour Ruffs, making an unusually high count, were seen on Laysan I. 4-7 Apr (CM, KP, CT). There were 2 Red Phalaropes on Laysan I. 3-7 Apr (CM, KP, CT), a species rare but regular in the Region. Laughing Gulls were wide- spread Mar+ (m.ob.), with an unusually high count of 4 at Kawai'ele 22 Mar (MW). Sin- gle Franklin’s Gulls were seen on Laysan 9 May (CM, KP, CT), at Kealia 17 May, and at EES. 19 & 31 May (U.S. Pish & Wildlife Service). Sin- gle Ring-billed Gulls were spotted at Honouli- uli 25 Mar (PD) and Waiawa 26 Mar (PD). A Common Tern, not common in the Region, was observed at an aquaculture farm in Palaauwai Moloka'i I. 20 & 23 Mar (ADY). A flock of 56 parakeets, mostly Red-maskeds with several Blue-crowneds, was observed in e. Honolulu, O. 3 Mar (MO). This flock has per- sisted for several years and seems to be grow- ing. Pourteen Burrowing Parrots were seen in Kainaliu, H. 7 Apr (RD). These parrots are in- frequently reported, and their status is poorly known. Hundreds of Rose-ringed Parakeets were observed in the Makiki area of Honolulu, O. 19 Mar (DP). Rose-ringeds seem to be well established on 0‘ahu I. but are seldom report- ed. That may be because the birds are found in urban areas not popular for birding. Japanese Bush-Warblers were heard calling around Volcano, H. late May into early jun, a new location for this species, which continues to expand its range (RC, TP, CC). Two Yellow- Yellow-faced Grassquits, native to the Caribbean region, have been established in the Ko'olau mountains of O'ahu Island for several decades but had not been found elsewhere on the island until Eric VanderWerf discovered some in the Wa- ianae Mountains of southwestern O'ahu Island in early (here 15) May 2007. Pho- tograph by Michael Walther. 530 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS HAWAIIAN ISLANDS ^ A Hie White-tailed Eagle first reported on Kaua'i Dlxl'm Dec 2006 apparently remained on Kaua'i Mar-1- (tn.ob.). This is the only White-tailed Eagle ever re- ported in the Region. The eagle reportedly flew threaten- ingly toward a tour helicopter 30 Apr (fide BZ). (A Golden Eagle that lived on Kaua'i I. for many years was killed when it attacked, and collided with, a tour helicopter.) Af- ter stories about the White-tailed Eagle appeared in the local news media, reports proliferated. Some of these re- ports were obviously incorrect, and it became difficuit to separate genuine reports from erroneous ones. It does ap- pear that the eagle ranged widely on Kaua'i. A report of a large raptor on O'ahu 1. led to speculation that the White- tailed Eagle had left Kaua'i !., but photographs of a raptor at Pearl Harbor 7 May proved to be of an Osprey (ph. MW). faced Grassquits were seen in the Waianae Mt. area of sw. O'ahu 1. 4 May (ph. EV), and 4 were seen in the same area 15 May (ph. MW). Yellow-faced Grassquits had previously been reported only in the Ko'olau Mt. of ne. O'ahu I. In the past few years, grassquits have become hard to find in the Ko'olaus. We con- tinue to get regular reports from tour groups of very rare birds on the big island. Palila, 'Akiapola'au, and Hawai'i Creepers (all En- dangered) were found regularly Mar+ (H.ET., DP), but few details were provided. We did get more specific data on 'Akiapola'au and Hawaii Creeper in the Humu'ula Saddle, H., where up to 4 'Akiapola'au were counted reg- ularly Mar+ (BR) and single Hawaii Creepers were located 5 Apr and 5 May (BR). One 'Akohekohe (Endangered) was seen and oth- ers heard at Waikamoi 20 Mar (DP, m.ob.). Contributors: Angela Anders, David Bremer, Rick Camp, Tom Coles, Christina Cornett, Reg David, Arleone Dibben-Young (ADY), Pe- ter Donaldson, Hawaii Eorest & Trail (H.ET), Michael Hawkes, Alvaro Jaramillo, Ian Jones, John Klavitter, David Kuhn, Dan Lane (DLa), Dan Lindsay, Chris Malachowski, Dennis Nakashima, Mike Nishimoto, Mike Ord, Rob Pacheco, Kevin Payne, Doug Pratt, Thane Pratt, Brooks Rownd, Craig Rowland, Dorcie Sakuma, Mike Sefton (MSe), Mike Silbema- gle, Eorest & Kim Starr, Steve&Priscilla Sum- mers, Chris Swenson, Carissa Turner, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Eric VanderWerf, Victor Emanuel Nature Tours (V.E.N.T.), Michael Walther, Geoff Williamson, Lindsay Young, Brenda Zaun. Robert L. Pyle, 1314 Kalakaua Avenue, #1010 Honolulu, Hawaii 96826 Peter Donaldson, 2375 Ahakapu Street Pearl City, Hawaii 96782, (pdnldsn.bird@mac.com) 100/634-^36 ^ wiiiijiliaiaie&coin- AmericanBirding* Mew titles from the American Birding Association! A Birder’s Guide TO SOUTHERN:;;, CiLIPQRNIA by Brad Schram Revised 2007 4.40 pages; paper ! 'lterti#123 ABA Member Price: $20.96 (List $25.95) 11 serious North American bird*^^^: ers eventually end up in Southern California. The vast, varied topog raphy that is Southerii California lias I'ocoi'ded over 555 naturally occurring bird species, many of which are near endemics to its geography. Each of Southern California's many habitats offers its own specialties, and this guide will Jrelp you to find them all. ' New to this edition . are chapters covering Kern River Valley, the rugged Clark Mountain wilderness, southeast- ern California's Blytlre region,. Sespe Coiidor i - ;;;;;j4§aT^tuary;'c5astQT'Vcntura-Gdunt-y, arid bifdlng . G - lrcTt~ffpots in_suburban San Fern.andc)„yallevG'~ ■ • The map.s, bar-graphs, and Specialties section all have been up-dated to ensure that the reader has effective tools at hand for contemporary birding. We have you in our sights! Please Support Birders’ Exchange ^^AmericanBirding(^^ Formore than a decade, Birders’ Exchange has been helping to promote bird research and conservation by providing equipment to a variety of partners in Latin America. (Ne depend on the generous financial and in-kind support of individuals like you who realize the power of putting tools into the hands of people. VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 531 SEE, HEAR & INSTANTLY IDENTIFY BIRDS ON DVD! “A skillful mix of video and stills that will delight and inform.” — New Yo7ic Times “Not only authoritative, but also literate, witty and fiill of interesting facts. Enthusiastically recommended.” — Library Journal “An important addition to printed field guides.” — Philadelphia hiquirer Audubon’s VideoGuide to the Birds of North America is the ideal application of DVD technology to a reference source. Beautiful moving footage and stills, bird calls and sounds, annotated visuals, author- itative narration and range maps help users quickly and precisely locate any of 247 bird species in DVD I, 258 species in DVD II, or all 506 species in the two- disk set, at the touch of a button. By using your DVD player's remote control you can repeat a segment, a shot or any part of a bird’s description as often as you like, or even study footage in slow motion. Add a portable DVD player or laptop and you can easi- ly bring this unique reference into the field, for imme- diate on-site identification. Informative 64-page Mini FieldGuide to 505 Birds of North America included with each DVD VideoGuide. If you liked the VideoGuide on VHS, you’ll love it on DVD! In DVD I you’ll find 247 birds including Loons; Grebes; ct?OQ Qp: Pelicans and their allies; Swans, Ducks and Geese including Dabbling Ducks, Bay Ducks, Sea Ducks, Mergansers, Whistling-Ducks and others; Vultures, Hawks and Falcons covering Eagles, Kites, Accipiters, Buteos, Caracaras and others; Chicken-like (or Scratching) Birds which include Turkey, Quail, Grouse, Prairie-Chickens, Pheasant, Ptarmigan and others; Wading birds, covering Spoonbill, Woodstork, Egrets, Herons, Bitterns, Ibises, Limpkin, and Cranes; Rails; Shorebirds, including Plovers, Sandpipers, Curlews, Phalaropes, Turnstones, Oystercatchers, Avocet and many others; Gulls and Jaegers; Terns; Alcids, which include Pulfins, Auks, Murres and Guillemots; Owls; and Kingfishers. In DVD II you'll find 258 birds including Pigeons and Doves; ^39 95 Cuckoos and Anis; Nightjars; Hummingbirds and Swifts; ^ Elegant Ti-ogon; Woodpeckers; Flycatchers; Horned Lark; Swallows; Crows, Jays and Magpies; Chickadees and Titmice; Verdin; Bushtit; Nuthatches; Brown Creeper; Wrens; American Dipper; Kinglets and Gnatcatchers; Bluebirds, Robins and other Thrushes; Wrentit; Mimic Thrushes; Water Pipit; Warnings; Shrikes; Phainopepla; Vireos; Warblers; Blackbirds and Orioles; Tanagers; and Grosbeaks, Buntings, Towhees, Sparrows, Juncos, Longspurs, and Finches. 505 birds on set of two DVDs $69.95 VHS set of five videos containing 505 birds $89.95 VHS I 116 species of water birds, raptors and chicken-like birds $19.95 VHS II 1 12 species of water and shore birds $19.95 VHS III 76 species, including owls, hummingbirds, and woodpeckers $19.95 VHS rV 98 species of songbirds, including thrushes and vireos $19.95 VHSV 108 species of songbirds, incuding warblers and finches $19.95 SSg-rlsK*-'! rs.-sssr-*--- __ 5“*”; Wjocbc i f M fttp •5S. 64-pa9® Sample ORDER: 1-800-876-0091 EXT. 103 OR: www.mastervision.com Or mail check or money order to Mastervision, Dept. 103, PO Box 807, New Hudson MI 48165-0807. Add $5 Sh-H per Order. Pictorial Highlights 1 • This Terek Sandpiper found by Frank Haas on Sweeper Creek, Adak Is- land, Alaska 30 May 2007 stayed through the next day. Photograph by John Puschock. 2 • This Clay-colored Sparrow was photographed 23 May 2007 on St. Pierre. Photograph by Roger Etcheverry. 3 • This Black-banded Woodcreeper furnishes a first record for El Sal- vador. It was netted in the cloud forest at Montecristo National Park, Santa Ana Department on 6 April 2007. Photograph by Vicky Galan. 4 • Two Glossy Ibis x White-faced Ibis hybrids (front birds) were noted at Stearns Lake, Boulder, Colorado 25-26 (here 26) April 2007. Photograph by David Waltman. 5 • Two nests of Mangrove Warbler were found along the Lower Laguna Madre, Cameron County, Texas in May 2007 (here 27 May); these repre- sent the first nest of this distinctive subspecies of Yellow Warbler for the United States. Photograph by Scarlet Colley. 6 • Baja California's Cory's Shearwater returned to Islas Los Coronados for a third year, 20 March-11 June 2007, and was photographed there on the initial date. Photograph by Matt Sadowski. 7 • This male Melanerpes woodpecker at Rio Torola, Morazan Depart- ment, El Salvador on 8 March 2007 shows characteristics of both Hoff- man's and Golden-fronted Woodpeckers. There is one previous record of a hybrid in El Salvador and one record of an apparently pure Hoffman's. Hybrids have been reported in nearby Honduras since the 1960s, and Hoffmann's has been expanding its range in Costa Rica in recent years. Photograph byJ. Tobias Guevara. VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 533 IpICTORIAL HIGHLIGHTS 1 • This Yellow-billed Loon found by Cameron Rutt at Harris- burg, Dauphin County, Pennsylvania 4-7 (here 5) May 2007 represented a first state record. It spent most of its stay catch- ing and eating crayfish. Photograph by Christopher Bohinski. 2 • This Progne martin at Key West, Florida 28 March 2007, tentatively identified as a Caribbean Martin, is under review by the state committee. Key West has old records of Cuban Martin (9 May 1895) and Southern Martin (14 August 1890); this record would give the island a remarkable four-martin score, if approved! Photograph by Carl Goodrich. 3 • Found by three birders from St. Louis, Missouri, this first- alternate male White Wagtail (of the nominate subspecies) at Moon Lake Park, New Port Richey, Florida was present 18-19 and 22 (here 18) March 2007. It Amishes the first record for the state (accepted by state committee as species #500) and the fifth for the Southeast; none has lingered longer than six days after discovery. Photograph by David Faintkh. 4 • This Black-tailed Godwit in Cornwall, Vermont 29 and 30 (here) April 2007 furnished the first state record and just the fifth for the New England region. How remarkably for- tuitous it was that a birder bumped into this bird "in the middle of nowhere" (at least 16 kilometers from the near- est Lake Champlain shoreline) and that he recognized it as something unusual! Imagine how many such vagrants go undetected. Photograph by Hector Galbraith. 5 ■ Rare at any season in the Hudson-Delaware region, this Black-headed Grosbeak at Newfane, New York 5-11 (here 10) May 2007 is at least two years old, as indicated by the solidly black primaries. Photograph by Celeste Morien. 6 • This Red-necked Stint, a first for Indiana, was discovered by a group of birders while looking for the Curlew Sandpiper at Wakarusa Wastewater Treatment Facility 23 May 2007. Photograph by John Cassady. 7 • The adult Black-headed Gull found late in the winter sea- son remained through most of March 2007 at Montrose Har- bor, Chicago, through 25 March. During that time it began to molt in its dark hood, as seen in this image from 15 March. It marked Illinois's first record of this species since November 1995. Photograph by Emil Martinet. 534 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS PICTORIAL HIGHLIGHT^ 1 • Daring an unusually lengthy ¥isit in Newburyport, Massa- chusetts 8 April thrsugh 5 May 2007, this Ruff provided a rare opportunity to observe the rate and tract sequence sf a por- tion ef its molt from basic to alternate plumage. Pkotsgrephs by, frm left t§ right: kremish Trimble ( 1 0 ipril) and Phil Brown (23 and 3§ April). 2 • This White-faced Ibis, Connerticufs fifth, was at Ham- monasset Beach State Park, in Madison 18-22 (here 21) April 2007. Photegraph by Paul fitsce, 3 • This aberrant Baltimore Oriole caused a stir en 9 May 2007 in Boone County, Iswa; it is thought that carotenoids from introduced (eiotk) fruiting plants are the source sf rich color in same aberrant orioles bit probably net in this one. Photograph by Jim Moreland. 4 • The Atlantic Yellow-nosed Albatross first found at Cape Meddick, Maine was released offshore at Steltagen lank, roughly 48 kilometers east of Boston, Massachusetts 2 June 2007— its second release. Photegraph by Craig Gibson. 5 • This henieison! Short-billed Dewitcher (at right with Long-billed Dowitchersj graced Port Susan Bay, Snohomish County, Washington 1 7 May 2007, prswding the first record for western Washington. Mote the wirtually unmarked under- parts, which help distinguish this taion from alternate- plumaged Long-billed Dowitchers and other Short-billed Dowitcher taia. Also, compare the brightly marked upper- parts with those of the nearby Lon§-billeds. Photograph by Stmn 6. Mlodiasw. VOLUME 61 (2007) • NUMBER 3 535 PICTORIAL HIGHLIGHTS 1 • This bird, dubbed the "Petaluma Gull," was found at Lucch- esi Park, Petaluma County, California 8-11 March 2007. Its striking pale white ground color and finely patterned mantle and coverts suggested first-cycle Mongolian Gull {Larus [ar- gentatus] mongolicus) to the original observers. Upon closer examination, the age of the bird came into question, and oth- ers thought it might be in its second cycle. Vega Gull (Lam [argentatus] vegae) can become very pale when worn, and the ultimate conclusion after consulting Asian experts was that this bird is likely the pale extreme of a first-cycle Vega Gull. The tail pattern is more typical of Vega Gull, though little is known about variation in Mongolian Gull. Mongolian Gull is a relatively poorly known taxon and is rare in winter in Japan. A pale Vega Gull is the most likely explanation for such a bird in North America, but more research on differentiating these two taxa is required. Photographs by Brian L. Sullivan (stand- ing bird 8 March) and John Sterling (1 1 March). 2 • Golden-crowned Sparrow x White-crowned Sparrow hy- brids are being found at a rapidly escalating rate in Oregon and Washington, but few have been documented as nicely as this one in Portland on 25 April 2007. Photograph by Shawneen Finnegan. 3 • Furnishing the first record of Eurasian Whimbrel on Ber- muda since 1995, this individual was at Stock's Harbour 17 (here) through 20 March 2007. Photograph by Andrew Dobson. 4 • California's first Wood Sandpiper was alvrays expected on the coast in fall, so this one, photographed on the first day of its 22-23 May 2007 stay at the China Lake Naval Air Weapons Station, Kern County, defied those expectations by showing up in the Mojave Desert in spring. Photograph by Bob Steele. 5 • Among 22 White-faced Ibis was Minnesota's third Glossy Ibis (left) near Madison, Lac Qui Parle County, which stayed 29 April through 1 May (here) 2007. It was appreciated and photo- graphed by many observers. Photograph by James P. Mattsson. 536 NORTH AMERICAN BIRDS ABA-Endorsed Tours Enjoy Very Special B i r d i ri g FEATURED ENDORSED TOUR ;i| Sep 28-Oct 12 - Drakensberg Mountains to the Elephant Coast of Kwazulu Natal Leaving Johannesburg, we will search the arid kopjes for No. Black Korhaan, Orange River Francolin, Red- eyed Bulbul, Chestnut-backed Finch Lark and Black-throated Canary. On the rocky slopes of the moun- tains, we look for Jackal Buzzard, Drakensberg Rockjumper, Drakensberg Siskin and Bearded Vulture. Drop down to lower elevations for such birds as the Knysna Turaco and Cape Parrot before heading to the coast (Purple-crested Turaco, Pink-throated Twinspot, Corgeous Bush Shrike, Green-spotted Wood- Dove), plus raptors. Continue to the grasslands for Southern Bald Ibis, Blue Korbaan, Yellow-breasted Pipit, and the rare and endanged Rudd's and Botha's Larks. Optional 3-night extension. Contaa Avian Leisure Birding & Wildlife Safaris, enquiries@avianleisure.com, wvw.avianleisure.com, +27 21 786 1414. ' Mar 29-Apr 9 - Zapata Peninsula, Northern Ar- chipelago & Western Endemic Regions of Cuba Once again, pending license from the US Treasury, the Cuba Bird Study Program will visit the birding hotspots of Cuba. This is always an opportunity that depends on government relations at the highest level, however their past history has been successful in receiving the required permits. Cuba Bird Study Program, Gary Markowski, cubirds@aoi.com, i (860) 350-6752. May 23-26 - Pribilofs - St Paul Island St. Paul Island is home to millions of seabirds nest- ing in easily observed colonies along the steep shores of the island. Thousands of migrating gulls, shorebirds, seabirds, ducks and passerines are drawn to this remote island in the Bering Sea. Wilderness Birding Adventures, wvw.wildernessbirding.com, info@wildernessbirding.com, (907) 694-7442. I May 10-21 - Birding in Peru with Barry Walker This favorite tour includes lodges in Lima (sea level), Cusco (11,600 feet), Machu Picchu and of course the I Manu Wildlife Center. To fully enjoy this trip, partic- ipants must be in sufficient good health (walking, uneven ground, high elevations). Find high Andean waterfowl, mbced flocks of tanagers, flycatchers, fumarids, plus plus! Target endemics of the area, with several days at the Manu, known for its high biodiversity, thus abundant variety of bird life. Con- tact Siemer & Hand Travel, www.siemerhand.com, (800) 451-4321. May 26-June 9 - China: Sichuan I and the Tibetan Plateau j Referred to as the "Heavenly Kingdom", this area's natural beauty and spectacular scenery provide a I wonderful backdrop for most of the central Chinese 1 endemics as well as up to 10 amazing pheasants. Tropical Birding, www.tropicalbirding.com, info@tropicalbirding.com, (800) 348-5941. May 28-June 5 - Gambell and Nome Tour I Visit two of the most famous birding spots during j spring migration where streams of birds fly by. Great opportunities for Asian migrants and unusual breed- ers in a very special place. Wilderness Birding Adven- ! tures, www.wildernessbirding.com, info@wildernessbirding,com, (907) 694-7442. June 18-28 - The Galapagos Islands Cruise the islands of Ecuador, beginning with a land trip in Quito, and ending in Guayaquil. Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, for those special species of the Galapagos. The La Pinta is the newest ship in the fleet of Metropolitan Touring. Contact Jane Kress, Avalon Waterways, www.avalonwaterways.com, (877) 303-7735. Oct 3-18 and Oct 24-Nov 8 - Madagascar Madagascar's flora and fauna are so different from anywhere else on Earth that it is often regarded as an eighth continent. Great chance to see all of the five families of birds that are found only here, as well as most of the 120 endemic species. Contact fropical Birding, info@tropicalbirding.com, ww'w.tropicalbirding.com, (800) 348-5941. Oct 4-21 - SE Brazil: Atlantic Rainforest & Savannah Visit the best sites in both regions for maximum birds: endemic antbirds, cotingas, flycatchers, and tanagers of the coastal rainforest, plus the specialties of the drier savannah and gallery forests of the inte- rior. Contact Tropical Birding, info@tropicalbirding.com, www.tropicalbirding.com, (800) 348-5941 . Oct 12-26 - South Africa: Fairest Cape to Kruger Expect to see over 400 species on this tour, includ- ing bee-eaters, hornbills, kingfishers, barbets and sunbirds in the beautiful country also rich in wildlife. Diversity increases with visits to tropical sa- vanna, golden-green grasslands, the semi-desert Karoo and the heath-like fynbos. Contact Tropical Birding, info@tropicalbirding.com, www.tropicalbirding.com, (800) 348-5941. Nov 15-22 - Late Migrants & Winter Wildfowl of North Norfolk Visit the premier birding county in the UK to catch the over wintering specialties as they settle in, enjoy late migrants, and possibly encounter a few rare species. Traditional guest house accommodations. Contact Neil Donaghy, Celtic Tours, birds@celtictours.org.uk, 1 656 645 709. Please contact tour company directly for information and reservations, and identify yourself as an ABA member. Tour companies pay ABA a commission for each ABA participant. American Birding* ASSOCIAl'ION f a lUicf , Long awaited and SMITHSONIAN LIBRARIES 3 9088 01920 2332 ^ flONVS; Th* Birdtr's ^Andbook A unique approach Available again! Available separately or as a set Bird Songs and Calls of Britain and Europe on 4 CDs onj Coll * "'^ChocUw, Upload your lists to eBird! € Check out these exciting titles as well as hundreds of other hireling books, optics, CDs, DVDs, CD-ROMs, and birding accessories American Bird! Pig from ABA Sales. Order online or call association Customer Service for more information ABA Sdles www.abasales.com • 800-6S4-7736