Parent
From email@hidden Mon May 01 09:42:16 2000
Subject: [SBB] Pinnacles birds
--------
All:
Apart the LEOW, I didn't do any birding in the county this weekend. On a
family comping trip to the E. Pinnacles, I saw a male Costa's Hummingbird.
Some other birders reported a Yellow-breasted Chat (at the same location I had
one singing last year), but I failed to refind it in a brief search. There
were a number of migrant warblers around, although most were only heard
singing. I saw at least 4 W. Tanagers.
Nick
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From email@hidden Mon May 01 13:42:54 2000
Subject: [SBB] Speaking of Chats (out of area birding)
--------
In regard to the recent question about places in California to see Chats, I
happened to be at Sepulveda Basin in LA County this Sunday, as part of an
attempt to see migrants in the southern Calif. area. Heard two
Yellow-Breated Chats, one of which was incredibly cooperative and perched
out in the open singing for about 15 minutes. They are breeding every year
at this site according to my friends who cover this area.
Other odds and ends of the trip included an adult Zone-Tailed Hawk at the
Kern River Preserve, plus the usual expected breeding birds (e.g., Summer
Tanager) on Friday. The hawk was found about a month ago but has only been
seen a couple of times since.
Butterbread Springs in Kern County was also very good for migrants on
Friday, with multiple Gray, Hammond's, and Dusky Flycatchers, in addition
to Western Wood Pewees and Pacific Slope Flycatchers. It was like an Empid
clinic. We saw all the expected migrant warblers with the exception of
Hermit. A few of the Mountain Quail were also pretty cooperative, and
allowed us to view them for a few minutes by scope.
Also went to the Orange County area on Saturday but found few
migrants. Highlights included a Black Throated Sparrow at the Newport
Beach Back Bay, and a beautiful male California Gnatcatcher at Crystal Cove
Park.
- Dave Lewis
Division of Immunology/Transplantation Biology
Room H-307
Stanford University School of Medicine
300 Pasteur Drive
Stanford, CA 94305-5208
Tel: (650)498-4189 FAX:(650) 498-6077
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From email@hidden Mon May 01 14:19:48 2000
Subject: [SBB] Re: Speaking of Chats (out of area birding)
--------
I also had an out of county Yellow-breasted Chat (is that like an out of
body experience?). I took my birding class to Bethel Is./Piper's Slough
on Saturday. We had one heard-only YBCH in the willow thickets along the
Slough. Also saw 1 or 2 male Blue Grosbeak along the levee. A male Black-
chinned Hummingbird was stationed at the north end of Bethel Is. Rd. Also
found 2 Western Tanagers and a Selasphorus hummingbird in this location.
If you're after these species, this is not a bad area to visit. While
you're there, you can check out the area surrounding the town of Byron,
which is where land is supposedly being purchased by San Jose in mitigation
for the elimination of South Bay Burrowing Owl habitat. There seemed to be
a good number of Burrowing Owls there. Of course, our local owl population
will probably die out.
At Round Valley Regional Park, near Marsh Creek Reservoir, we saw a male
Phainopepla. This area is on the "backside" (east) of Mt. Diablo.
Les Chibana
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From email@hidden Mon May 01 17:10:20 2000
Subject: [SBB] Some birding
--------
All,
This morning Frank Vanslager and I went to Matadero Creek. We found lots of
fresh human trails out to and among the coyote bushes but no Long-eared Owl.
We then went to Coyote Creek Field Station (CCFS). The first pond on the
left (and the one behind it) was belly deep in thousands of dowitchers, a few
black-bellied Dunlin, lots of "peeps" and American Avocets. The pond across
from the banding trailers had several Bonaparte's Gulls. The "Waterbird
Pond" was almost dry (!!!!!!) but had hundreds of "peeps" in it. We then
went to the large tidal mud flat to the west of the "Waterbird Pond" where we
found an overall whitish Thayer's Gull with white primaries and tertials and
an essentially all black bill (among the hundreds of gulls there). On our
way out to the mud flat an adult male Ring-necked Pheasant had run ahead of
us until it wisely decided to fly for it. At Arzino Ranch, in one field, we
had a single Cattle Egret and at least six actively feeding Burrowing Owls.
Just before we left two Peregrine Falcons, an adult and a juvenile, flew over
us.
Take care,
Bob Reiling, 5:11 PM, 5/1/00
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From email@hidden Mon May 01 17:53:53 2000
Subject: [SBB] Saturday birdathon
--------
Howdy South-bay-birders,
On Sat., April 29th, Ann Verdi, Amy Hajduk, Jim Danzenbaker, and I did a
birdathon in the Almaden Valley area, only covering sites south of Blossom
Hill Road (and only as far south as Chesbro Reservoir). We started in New
Almaden at 4 am, and ended late in the afternoon at the Stile Ranch Trail,
with a final count of 114 species. Waterfowl and raptors proved elusive, but
we did really well on owls and passerines. Best mammal sighting was a close
view of a very relaxed Bobcat on the Fortini Trail. Worst miss: Golden
Eagle. Amy provided the following list of bird species for the day, which
I've added some notes to:
Pied-billed Grebe - With young at Almaden Lake.
Clark's Grebe - 1 at Calero Reservoir.
Western Grebe
Double-crested Cormorant
Black-crowned Night Heron -Carrying material to nest sites at Almaden Lake.
Green Heron
Snowy Egret
Great Egret
Great Blue Heron
Canada Goose - With broods of young at Almaden Lake & Guadalupe River.
Wood Duck - At Almaden Reservoir and Chesbron Reservoir.
Mallard
Gadwall
Common Merganser - Almaden and Chesbro Reservoirs, Alamitos Creek Trail.
Ruddy Duck - 1 male at the SCVWD pond.
Turkey Vulture
Osprey - 1 soaring along McKean Rd. near Calero Reservoir.
White-tailed Kite
Red-shouldered Hawk
Red-tailed Hawk
American Kestrel
Wild Turkey - 11 along the Stile Ranch Trail, 2 along the Fortini Trail.
California Quail
Common Moorhen - 1 at Almaden Lake.
American Coot
Killdeer
Greater Yellowlegs - Chesbro Reservoir.
Spotted Sandpiper - Calero Reservoir, SCVWD Pond.
Ring-billed Gull
California Gull
Caspian Tern
Forster's Tern
Band-tailed Pigeon
Rock Dove
Mourning Dove
Barn Owl - Heard at New Almaden Post Office.
Great Horned Owl - New Almaden, Hicks Rd.
Western Screech Owl - Heard at points along Hicks Rd.
Northern Pygmy Owl - Heard along Hicks Rd. near Guadalupe Reservoir.
Common Poorwill - Heard along Hicks Rd. near Guadalupe Reservoir.
Vaux's Swift - 1 near Mt. Umunhum.
White-throated Swift - Fortini Trail (Santa Teresa Hills).
Anna's Hummingbird
Selasphorus sp.
Belted Kingfisher
Acorn Woodpecker
Northern Flicker
Nuttall's Woodpecker
Hairy Woodpecker - Near Chesbro Reservoir.
Olive-sided Flycatcher - New Almaden, Twin Creeks, and Alamitos Creek Trail.
Western Wood-Pewee - Twin Creeks.
Pacific-slope Flycatcher
Black Phoebe
Ash-throated Flycatcher
Western Kingbird - McKean Rd., Chesbro Res., Fortini Trail, Alamitos Creek.
Hutton's Vireo
Cassin's Vireo - Twin Creeks and upstream from Guadalupe Reservoir.
Warbling Vireo
Steller's Jay
Western Scrub-Jay
Yellow-billed Magpie
American Crow
Horned Lark - Singing in flight above the Stile Ranch Trail.
Tree Swallow - Calero Reservoir, Stile Ranch Trail.
Violet-green Swallow
Cliff Swallow
Northern Rough-winged Swallow
Barn Swallow
Wrentit
Oak Titmouse
Chestnut-backed Chickadee
Bushtit
White-breasted Nuthatch
House Wren
Bewick's Wren
Rock Wren - Singing along the Stile Ranch Trail.
American Dipper - Upstream from Twin Creeks.
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher
Western Bluebird
Swainson's Thrush - Near Mt. Umunhum (heard only--"whup" call)
Hermit Thrush --Near Mt. Umunhum (heard only)
American Robin
Northern Mockingbird
California Thrasher
European Starling
Cedar Waxwing
Orange-crowned Warbler
Yellow-rumped Warbler - Singing at trailhead parking area in New Almaden.
Black-throated Gray Warbler - Mt. Umunhum Rd.
Yellow Warbler - 7+ singing males at points along Alamitos Creek.
Wilson's Warbler - Guadalupe Creek, Twin Creeks, Mt. Umunhum, Chesbro.
Common Yellowthroat - Pair at the SCVWD pond, female carrying food.
Yellow-breasted Chat - Singing on private property near Chesbro Reservoir.
Western Tanager - Trail to Bald Mountain.
California Towhee
Spotted Towhee
Rufous-crowned Sparrow - Carrying food along the Stile Ranch Trail.
Lincoln's Sparrow - Chesbro Reservoir and Stile Ranch Trail.
Song Sparrow
Golden-crowned Sparrow
Dark-eyed Junco
Black-headed Grosbeak
Lazuli Bunting - Mt. Umunhum Rd.
Western Meadowlark
Red-winged Blackbird
Tricolored Blackbird - Small flock in a field along McKean Rd.
Brewer's Blackbird
Brown-headed Cowbird
Hooded Oriole - 3 along the Alamitos Creek Trail.
Bullock's Oriole
Purple Finch - Mt. Umunhum Rd.
House Finch
Lesser Goldfinch
House Sparrow
John Mariani
email@hidden
www.birdswest.com
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From email@hidden Mon May 01 18:46:51 2000
Subject: [SBB] More weekend birding, Mt. Hamilton, San Antonio Valley, and Del Puerto Canyon
--------
Howdy South-bay-birders,
On Sunday I took my MetroED class on a field trip to Mt. Hamilton, San
Antonio Valley, and Del Puerto Canyon. It was a great day, and we saw lots
of birds and wildflowers. Worst miss: Golden Eagle! Here are some
highlights:
Smith Creek Fire Station - A CHIPPING SPARROW was singing inside the
fence. At the edge of the meadow behind the fire station, in pine-oak
woodland, we saw ORANGE-CROWNED, NASHVILLE, BLACK-THROATED GRAY, and
TOWNSEND'S WARBLERS, also LAZULI BUNTINGS. Along the creek we heard HAIRY
WOODPECKER and saw WESTERN WOOD-PEWEE, HUTTON'S VIREO, BROWN CREEPER, HOUSE
WREN, and BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAK.
Pine-oak woodland about 2 miles east of the summit of Mt. Hamilton -
Watched WHITE-BREASTED NUTHATCHES bringing food to their nest. In this area
we also saw a WESTERN TANAGER, PURPLE FINCHES, and a gorgeous male HERMIT
WARBLER.
San Antonio Valley Road between Mt. Hamilton and San Antonio Valley - We
saw 1 male WOOD DUCK at a stock pond, and 2 singing SAGE SPARROWS in
chaparral. In San Antonio Valley we counted 3-4 LEWIS'S WOODPECKERS. At
first the woodpeckers were frustratingly far away, flying up into the
stratosphere, but one kept coming closer and closer, and finally alighted
close in front of us. Late in the day, while getting a cold drink at San
Antone Junction, we had excellent close views of a pair of LAWRENCE'S
GOLDFINCHES right next to the store. Many ANNA"S HUMMINGBIRDS were slurping
at the store's feeders, but that was the only species we saw there.
Along Del Puerto Canyon Rd., where there is a sheer cliff face on the
right, about 5 miles east of Frank Raines County Park (Stanislaus Co.), we
saw a male COSTA'S HUMMINGBIRD, ASH-THROATED FLYCATCHER, CANYON WRENS, LARK
and RUFOUS-CROWNED SPARROWS, and LAZULI BUNTINGS. The Costa's Hummingbird
was frustratingly hard to see--we repeatedly heard its "bullet zings," but
just couldn't get a view of it. Finally it was spotted by Erin Ulrich atop a
distant cottonwood. A COMMON RAVEN was sitting on its nest upon the cliff
face there.
For information about MetroED classes go to http://www.metroed.org/cip.htm.
The next birding class will run from June 13th thru July 25th.
John Mariani
email@hidden
www.birdswest.com
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From email@hidden Mon May 01 21:46:15 2000
Subject: [SBB] Henry Coe State Park, 4/28 - 5/1
--------
My wife and I have just returned from a 4 day
backpacking trip in Henry Coe State Park. I was able
to squeeze some birding in too, and tallied over 50
species. Some of the highlights:
- wild turkeys (numerous)
- golden eagle (2 different sightings)
- greater roadrunner (near Arnold Horse Camp)
- blue-gray gnatcatcher(numerous)
- Lazuli bunting (2 different sightings, both near
Poverty Flat)
- Lark sparrow
Bullock's Orioles and Black-headed grosbeaks were
everywhere. I also believe I had a fly-by Lewis'
Woodpecker but could not confirm the ID.
On this subject, can anyone direct me to places inside
Henry Coe where the American dipper has been seen?
Thanks
David Armstrong
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From email@hidden Tue May 02 13:03:10 2000
Subject: [SBB] Turkeys
--------
I read recently in a book review by Steve Howell some discussion of native
vs. non-native populations of Wild Turkeys in this country. Are the Wild
Turkeys that people see in the south bay native or are they introduced? What
about other populations near the Bay Area?
Andrew R.
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From email@hidden Tue May 02 14:11:08 2000
Subject: Re: [SBB] Turkeys
--------
The Turkey populations locally are all introduced, which I believe is true of
all CA populations.
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From email@hidden Tue May 02 15:53:02 2000
Subject: Re: [SBB] Turkeys
--------
True, historically there were no turkeys in California, but Sage Grouse
were much more widespread before the cattle and pigs were turned loose in
the late 1700s. Very hard on conspicuous ground-nesting birds. As were
gun hunters. No RN Pheasants in California historically either, of course.
Starlings were unusual in Bay Area until the 1950s BTW.
------------ Previous Message from email@hidden on
05/02/2000 02:11:08 PM ----------
To: Andrew Rush
cc: email@hidden
Subject: Re: [SBB] Turkeys
The Turkey populations locally are all introduced, which I believe is true
of
all CA populations.
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From email@hidden Tue May 02 17:22:39 2000
Subject: [SBB] Babies
--------
A belated note from Saturday (April 29): at the salt pond just north of
the Environmental Education Center (pond A16?), the area around the closest
nesting island already had three families of Avocets with one to four very
small chicks -- some looked no more than a few days old, but were swimming
with their parent(s). It was also a good day for Burrowing Owls: in addition
to two at the usual Disk Drive location, there were 6 individuals spread out
over the corner of the Alviso Ranch easily visible from the north end of the
Jubilee Church parking lot. Most were perched up/hunting; one made a brief
flight back to another which was on the ground a couple of hundred yards away
(perhaps with food?).
Al
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From email@hidden Tue May 02 17:32:00 2000
Subject: Re: [SBB] Turkeys
--------
Wild Turkey populations in California are introduced, mainly for sport hunting.
The ones we see in the bay area( and elsewere in the lower areas of California)
are the Rio Grande subspecies. It was first intoduced into California from Texas.
The Merriams subspecies is being introduced to higher areas of the state. The
turkeys on the Tejon Ranch in S. Cal are of this subspecies. Merriams can also be
found in a few areas of the Sierra Nevada. The Eastern subspecies has been
introduced in far northwestern California. The Merriams and Rios can and do
hybridize in areas of overlap and one can find hybrids in several areas of the
state.
Screech.
Andrew Rush wrote:
> I read recently in a book review by Steve Howell some discussion of native
> vs. non-native populations of Wild Turkeys in this country. Are the Wild
> Turkeys that people see in the south bay native or are they introduced? What
> about other populations near the Bay Area?
> Andrew R.
> ________________________________________________________________________
> Get Your Private, Free E-mail from MSN Hotmail at http://www.hotmail.com
>
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--
Paul L. Noble
"Screechowl"
email@hidden
^ ^
@ @
( v )
( )
/ \
m m
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From email@hidden Wed May 03 09:08:39 2000
Subject: Re: [SBB] Turkeys
--------
All,
I'm not sure that I know why the original question as to whether Turkeys in
the bay area are introduced was asked. House Sparrows and European
Starlings, to name a conspicuous pair, are introduced (to the entire United
States). If one is interested as to whether the Wild Turkeys in the eastern
foothills of the bay area are countable, introduced or not, I would suggest
that they may be less dependent on human aid (than the other two) and seem to
be sustaining (or even increasing) the size of their populations. The WITU
populations in the eastern foothills have been wild (on their own) for many
years. I even recently read that WITU from the bay area were being used to
establish populations in Monterey County.
Each person's list is their own (I personally don't count the birds that I
see in cages at the zoo) but I do count the WITU (a native American bird)
seen in the eastern foothills. Let's face it, one of these days we may be
overrun with Nutmeg Mannikins, Orange Bishops, Eurasian Collared-Doves,
Eurasian Tree Sparrows and parrots that seem to do well in various parts of
the United States. Human intervention is natural (and it seems unavoidable).
The main thing is to keep records of where, when, etc., that you see a (any)
bird so that subsequent questions asked by various organizations for various
reasons may be answered. It's only when comparing lists that it's important
that you use the same criteria.
Take care,
Bob Reiling, 9:04 AM, 5/3/00
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From email@hidden Wed May 03 11:09:33 2000
Subject: [SBB] Western Tanager
--------
We spotted a WESTERN TANAGER at Vasona Lake this morning in the trees to the
right of the old snack shack building now being used as ranger offices.
There are BARN SWALLOWS nesting underneath the fishing dock on the far side
of the lake.
Pat Curtis
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From email@hidden Wed May 03 15:15:55 2000
Subject: [SBB] Ed Levin--BLGR
--------
I went to the sycamore gully above Sandy Wool Lake in Ed Levin County Park
this morning. About 10:30, after two hours of standing around trying to
photograph orioles, I saw a pair of BLUE GROSBEAKS in the sycamore below
the trail. They had sneaked past me to the water just downslope from the
tree, and the male was drying himself and preening. After a few minutes
they both flew back across the trail and up the gully. All the other "usual
suspects" were there as well.
--Pete
------------------------------------------------------
Peter LaTourrette
Bird Photography: http://www.birdphotography.com/
Bird Photo Gallery: http://www.stanford.edu/~petelat1/
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From email@hidden Wed May 03 20:28:01 2000
Subject: [SBB] San Antonio Valley Birds
--------
Hi Birders-
Around noon today, near the junction in San Antonio Valley, Ed Frost and I
had two LEWIS'S WOODPECKERS a quarter mile south of the junction, a
PHAINOPEPLA and a GREATER ROADRUNNER between the junction and the cattle
guard north of the junction, a SAGE SPARROW singing at the cattle guard, a
LAWRENCE'S GOLDFINCH behind the store, and a three foot, brown and white
banded snake with white spots around the mouth crossing the road below the
cattle guard. We would like to put a name to this reptile if there are any
herpetologists out there. At the rock cut at about the ten mile marker on
Del Puerto Canyon Road there was a female COSTA'S HUMMINGBIRD in the tree
tobacco above our car as we arrived, and two CANYON WRENS were in the
vicinity. At the last rock cut before the grasslands at about mile four,
there were two GOLDEN EAGLES seen briefly before they disappeared over the
hill. One was a sub-adult. A mile from I-5 a GRASSHOPPER SPARROW was on the
fence line.
Jack Cole
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From email@hidden Wed May 03 21:07:13 2000
Subject: Re: [SBB] San Antonio Valley Birds
--------
Hi Jack,
> and a three foot, brown and white
> banded snake with white spots around the mouth crossing the road below the
> cattle guard. We would like to put a name to this reptile if there are any
> herpetologists out there.
The most likely species is California Kingsnake. There's an outside chance
it was the harder-to-find Western Long-nosed Snake. If you got a good look
at the nose (which is hard to do without picking up the snake), this is
diagnostic.
Cheers,
J.D. Phillips
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From email@hidden Thu May 04 14:34:57 2000
Subject: [SBB] Blue Grosbeak, Grasshopper Sparrow, Lazuli Bunting & R-Crowned Sparrow
--------
All,
This morning Frank Vanslager and I birded the hill above Sandy Wool Lake in
Ed Levin Park. On the knoll just past the "green Gate" we had distant views
of one to two Rufous-crowned Sparrows singing on the ridgeline. Twenty feet
further on we had fairly good looks at a Grasshopper Sparrow that was just
below the ridgeline and about 20 feet north of the RCSP. Another 20-30 feet
further on and we flushed a breeding plumage adult male Blue Grosbeak (a hint
of rufous on the nape of the neck) from dried brush on the left edge of the
trail. It flew away from us to the Sycamores giving several "chink" calls.
A few feet further on and an early, first-spring male Blue Grosbeak was found
in the tall yellow weeds (Mustard?) on the right side of the trail. This
male looked like a female BLGR except that it had a bluish face. The BLGRs
(both) were seen several times in the Sycamores, along the edges of the
trail, in the "Mustard" below the trail on both sides of the Sycamores and
above the trail on the lake side of the Sycamores. About the time that we
found the first-spring BLGR an adult male Lazuli Bunting was heard and seen
singing from the top of the Sycamore on the right side of the trail. A LABU
(the same one?) was also later seen singing from bushes further up the hill,
north of the trees. It is notable that all five of these birds were seen
before we were half way between the knoll (the high spot beyond the "green
gate") and the Sycamores! (A distance of about 100 feet.) Always take your
time when birding this area. Other good birds included White-throated
Swifts, Western Kingbirds and Bullock's Orioles (many, including a
first-spring male). We later found a Barn Owl in a Fan Palm (lots of nice
pellets at the base of the tree).
Take care,
Bob Reiling, 2:33 PM, 5/4/00
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From email@hidden Thu May 04 16:39:56 2000
Subject: [SBB] Yellow Warblers
--------
Howdy South-bay-birders,
Just started a new job at a site off of Santa Teresa near Bernal. For the
past 4 days 1-2 YELLOW WARBLERS have been singing constantly (hear them
every time I go outside) near the front of the building where I'm working.
Today I saw a pair copulating there. The habitat is typical business park
with cement, lawns, and shade trees around the building. Could they be
attempting to nest in this habitat? Is suppose the rows of deciduous shade
trees might substitute for the linear woodland of a riparian corridor.
Possible? This morning there was also a WESTERN TANAGER calling from one of
the trees. Driving home along McKean Road I saw an adult GOLDEN EAGLE land
on one of the towers near last year's nest site.
John Mariani
email@hidden
www.birdswest.com
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From email@hidden Thu May 04 17:39:03 2000
Subject: [SBB] birds
--------
A few birding tidbits:
On Sunday, 30 Apr 00, there was quite a bit of activity at the
TRICOLORED BLACKBIRD colony at Ogier Ponds. Hundreds of birds were
flying in and out. In 5 minutes of watching I saw 8 instances of females
carrying nesting material into the reeds. There was a GREEN HERON here
as well.
At the Riverside Golf Course, a SPOTTED SANDPIPER was working the rock
cascade in the pond outside the main building.
I've been seeing a pair of NORTHERN ROUGH-WINGED SWALLOWS gathering
nesting material in my front yard on recent days. I don't know where
they would be nesting; the nearest bridge that might provide nest holes
is about a mile away. The last two days there was an ORANGE-CROWNED
WARBLER singing in my back yard and acting territorial. This is
certainly marginal habitat at best.
Mike Mammoser
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From email@hidden Thu May 04 21:53:40 2000
Subject: [SBB] Santa Clara Birds
--------
For the third year in a row, a Red-Tailed Hawk is nesting on the same power
tower in north Santa Clara. The power tower is easily seen just north of
Agnew Road at Lakeshore Drive, near the West Agnews Campus.
Also at the nearby Ulistac Natural Area alongside Lick Mill Road between
Tasman and Hope Drive, I've seen the following birds during lunchtime walks
this week:
Green Heron
White-Tailed Kite
Red-shouldered Hawk
California Quail
Common Moorhen
Cedar Waxwings, at least 40
Orange-crowned Warbler
Yellow-rumped Warbler
Western Tanager
Bullock's Oriole
Brown-Headed Cowbird
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From email@hidden Fri May 05 09:58:27 2000
Subject: [SBB] truncated messages?
--------
3 or 4 messages from this list this week have arrived
w/ subject and header intact, but nothing in the body
of the message (see below).
Is this just my email problem or are others
experiencing this issue?
David Armstrong
--- John Mariani wrote:
> From: "John Mariani"
> To: "South-bay-birds"
>
> Subject: [SBB] Yellow Warblers
> Date: Thu, 4 May 2000 16:39:56 -0700
>
>
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From email@hidden Fri May 05 10:41:55 2000
Subject: [SBB] exotic
--------
Outside my front door (SF, 47/Anza) in my street tree (a euc without
flowers) this morning was a strong-lunged, clear-voiced singer that I had
never heard before. He had completely frazzled the House Sparrows nesting
under our roof tiles. They stared in amazement, so did my wife & I.
Here's the description:
Size: =European Starling
Body shape: thrush-like, short, blunt, broad tail... but not fan-shaped or
tapered
Plumage: Generally a lime green, the back very iridescent, the belly a
matte green...the under side of wings and tail a soft tan... a dark face
mask very similar in shape and proportion to that of a Hooded Oriole
with the dark running along front of head from eyes down around the beak
and across throat...this patch was mostly glossly black plus light blue
handlebar mustachios inside this black field. There is also a patch of
golden just above the beak and on the bird's forehead. There were also
faint hints of light blue speckels ( like the rust seen on the cxhest of
Yellow Warbler) on the bird;s chest when the angle of
the sunlight wasjust right...these might not be visible in a field
guide illustration but should be mentioned in a written description
Eyes: no eye ring, eyes jet black
Beak: dull jet black, about 2" long, curved downward noticeably but less
acutely than say the Iiwi of Hawaii, more like the Amakihi's beak...
sharply pointed like a nectar eater or bird that picks insects from
flowers or under loose bark
Voice: carries very well, strong & clear, call is a couple or three sharp
notes with a second or two in between (about the same pitch as a Robin's
whinny call), then a faster series of complex notes (all at same
moderate pitch) all alike...reminiscent of some Bullock Oriole sounds
Could this be somebody's escaped tropical troupial? An Oriole or cousin?
Any ideas? All my bird books are at home and I'm outta town until Saturday
night, suggestions would be apppreciated. Skutch probably has one of these
guys in his front yard.
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From email@hidden Fri May 05 11:04:35 2000
Subject: [SBB] BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAKS
--------
This morning at Vasona Lake, we spotted (2) BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAKS in the
Eucalyptus trees behind the boating dock parking lot. There was another in
the fields with house finches near the new large kiosk. We also saw four
WESTERN BLUEBIRDS (two males and two females) in the open grassy areas about
a 1/4 mile into the park from Blossom Hill Road.
Pat Curtis
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From email@hidden Fri May 05 11:37:52 2000
Subject: [SBB] [open-space] Commision Packet
--------
This is our second revision of the packet we want to
send the commissions.We haven't formatted it yet, so
it is a bit long but font and spacing may be able to
take care of that. Any feedback, both positive and
negative would be great. There will be two or three
letters and a map attached.
Paul and Jan:
Let us know where you want to go from here.
If you want to take it from here that is fine, we can
concentrate on other things. If you want us to
continue with this that is fine also. We are getting
more letters from city council today and will have
approval and copies soon. As for logistics of printing
and distribution, let us know.
Thanks
David
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--------
Attachment
A River Park for Rivermark.doc
A River Park for Rivermark.doc
27.1 KBytes
--------
From email@hidden Fri May 05 12:01:19 2000
Subject: [SBB] test-please disregard
--------
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From email@hidden Fri May 05 15:48:21 2000
Subject: Re: [SBB] [open-space] Commision Packet
--------
I have no idea what the post referred to in my title is about, or why
it belongs on south-bay-birds. Given that the text is very vague, this is a
particularly bad time to be opening EMail attachments from unknown (at least
to me) sources. If this was a real post about a real topic relevant to
south-bay-birds, I apologize. But caution is certainly advisable.
Al
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From email@hidden Sat May 06 10:21:04 2000
Subject: [SBB] Wild Turkeys (more)
--------
Folks:
As many have noted, Wild Turkeys are an introduced bird in California
and, compared to such old introductions as Ring-necked Pheasant, are recent.
My best information (which does not tap into DF&G records) for the nine Bay
area counties is as follows. Successfully introduced in 1970s, Sonoma County
(Burridge, B. 1995. Sonoma County Breeding Bird Atlas). Precocial young, Long
Ridge OSP, San Mateo County, 8 Jul 1997 (Peter J. Metropulos). Breeding at
least since 1972, Santa Clara County (Am. Birds 27:814). Introduced in Arroyo
Mocho area, Alameda County, prior to 1965 (Howard L. Cogswell). Probable
nesting, Contra Costa County, since early 1990s (Steven A. Glover). Nest with
eggs, Green Valley near Wild Horse Creek, Solano County, 15 May 1983 (fide
Robin Leong). Fledged young, Silverado Trail, Napa County, 22 Jun 1986 (fide
William T. Grummer). If anyone knows of breeding evidence for specific
locations and dates in any of these counties, I would appreciate it if you
would provide me the information.
Bill
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From email@hidden Sat May 06 16:01:12 2000
Subject: [SBB] Play nests?
--------
Has anyone heard of "play nests" in Western Scrub Jays?
This year a WESJ pair constructed a nest just outside our window
where we could watch the goings on at close range. After the nest
was completed, a jay sat on the nest for more than 2 weeks (possibly
as much as 3). About the time when we thought there should be young
soon, the jays disappeared.
When we looked at the nest, it was perfect, undamaged in any way, but
there were no eggs or young inside. There are no cats or other egg
predators nearby as far as we have ever seen.
Suggestions?
Ruth Troetschler
184 Lockhart Lane
Los Altos, CA 94022
Ruth Troetschler
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From email@hidden Sat May 06 18:30:30 2000
Subject: [SBB] LAGO and BLGR
--------
All,
At Ed Levin Park this afternoon the BLUE GROSBEAK continues in the small
sycamore grove on the hillside above the lake. The bird was first seen
below the trail in the fennel and then moved up into the sycamores
before going back down the slope. As well there were at least four
LAZULI BUNTINGS present. WHITE-THROATED SWIFT appeared briefly among the
many swallows. Two SELASPHORUS hummers buzzed through the eucalyptus
trees near the horse corral.
At Joseph D. Grant Regional Park earlier in the day our Palo Alto Adult
School Beginning Birding group had a pair of LAWRENCE'S GOLDFINCHES and
many of the expected land birds. The LAGOs were drinking in small stream
near the dribble pond next to the farmhouse. YELLOW, WILSON'S,
ORANGE-CROWNED and a single YELLOW-RUMPED WARBLER were also among the
willows in the same area. BULLOCK'S ORIOLES abounded! WESTERN TANAGER,
LAZULI BUNTINGS, ASH-THROATED FLYCATCHERS and WESTERN KINGBIRD (by the
lake) were also seen.
A full report of this trip and many of our group's previous trips can be
found at the following url:
http://www.birdguy.net/trip_report.html
Matthew Dodder
http://www.birdguy.net
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From email@hidden Sat May 06 19:37:58 2000
Subject: [SBB] Yellow Warblers, Rancho del Oso
--------
Howdy South-bay-birders,
Yesterday (Fri.) the male YELLOW WARBLER continued his constant serenading
at my job site on San Ignacio near Bernal. Does anyone out there know if
they are ever found nesting in non-riparian situations such as a landscaped
"business park"? These birds have been here for at least 5 days singing,
copulating, and generally acting like a breeding pair.
Today we had a MetroED class field trip to Rancho del Oso, and walked
the Skyline-to-the-Sea Trail inland as far as Camp Herbert. No Pileated
Woodpeckers, but we saw and heard lots of other species. The highlight was a
singing MACGILLIVRAY'S WARBLER that posed for us in a willow near the nature
center. Along the Marsh Trail we also had nice looks at CASSIN'S VIREO and
SWAINSON'S THRUSH. The thrushes were calling frequently but only a couple
were heard singing during our hike. As usual, WILSON'S WARBLERS were
abundant along Waddell Creek. Their breeding density there is probably as
high as it gets.
John Mariani
email@hidden
www.birdswest.com
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From email@hidden Sun May 07 09:03:11 2000
Subject: [SBB] Ed R Levin & Vasona
--------
We finally got to see the BLUE GROSBEAK that's been reported at the
Sycamore clump past the "green gate" above the lake. We only netted
a rather pathetic 35 birds for the day. Besides the usual list of
suspects and the "first spring" BLGB, we got an apparently solitary
WHITE-THROATED SWIFT, a WESTERN TANAGER pair, a nesting pair of
LESSER GOLDFINCHES. Lots of WESTERN KINGBIRDS and BULLOCKS ORIOLES
were also evident. We were not able to find the Lazuli Buntings,
nor the Selasphorus hummers reported to be near the stables.
Our nest box trail in the park is doing well with CHESTNUT-BACKED
CHICKADEES, TREE SWALLOWS, and WESTERN BLUEBIRDS about to fledge.
The nest boxes are 50% occupied at the moment. If all continues to
go well, we should fledge some 35 birds over the next two weeks.
On a sadder note; Penny and I are also doing the Vasona Lake rookery
reports. It seems that one of our adult GREAT EGRETs seems to have
suffered an unexpected demise in the tree on the south side of the
island.
Dusty Bleher
Campbell, Ca.
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From email@hidden Sun May 07 16:56:55 2000
Subject: [SBB] Stilt Sandpiper at CCFS
--------
I visited CCFS this afternoon, and found an alternate-plumaged Stilt
Sandpiper with Dowitchers (Long-Billed, at least) and Dunlin in the first
(southmost) pond along the levee road. Afterwards I ran into a bander who
told me Nick (Lethaby, I assume) had seen one (presumably the same) yesterday;
but since it's not yet been announced to the EMail list I thought I would put
it out. Of course, you have to be an SFBBO member (or a guest of one) to
gain access.
Another pond here had about 95 Bonaparte's Gulls, only a few of them in
alternate plumage.
AL Eisner
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From email@hidden Sun May 07 20:33:17 2000
Subject: [SBB] migrants
--------
Today, Sunday, while walking the dog in the mists, I saw two Solitary
Vireos and two female Western Tanagers in the Frenchman Road triangle area
on the Stanford campus.
- dave
David B. Lewis
Division of Immunology/Transplantation Biology, Room H-307
Stanford University School of Medicine
300 Pasteur Drive
Stanford, CA 94305-5208
Tel: (650) 498-4189 FAX: (650) 498-6077
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From email@hidden Mon May 08 08:11:05 2000
Subject: [SBB] Coyote Ridge, May 6
--------
Hello All -
On Saturday, May 6, Clysta Seney and I joined members of CNPS (Calif Native
Plant Society) for a scouting trip to Coyote Ridge located east of Hwy 101
near the Kirby Canyon landfill (opposite side of the highway from the Ogier
Ponds). This location is on non-accessable property, but I wanted to report
on the birds seen and heard there.
Not too many birds were seen or heard on this cool windy day on the
short-grass serpentine ridge: however, we came up with 27 species. Of
greatest interest were the sparrow species, and we saw LARK SPARROW,
RUFOUS-CROWNED SPARROW, SAGE SPARROW, and one member of the party reported a
heard-only GRASSHOPPER SPARROW. Other birds seen/heard include Turkey
Vulture, Red-tailed Hawk, American Kestrel, Mallard (in a holding pond),
Mourning Dove, Anna's Hummingbird, N. Rough-winged Swallow, Cliff Swallow,
Rock Wren, Horned Lark, American Crow, Common Raven (pair), W. Scrub Jay,
Oak Titmouse, Dark-eyed Junco, Western Kingbird, Lazuli Bunting, Calif
Towhee, Spotted Towhee, Brewer's Blackbird, Western Meadowlark, Lesser
Goldfinch, House Finch.
Ann
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From email@hidden Mon May 08 11:12:32 2000
Subject: [SBB] Cooper's Hawk in DeAnza Park
--------
Yesterday at dusk Joan and I saw a pair of Cooper's Hawks in DeAnza Park (in Sunnyvale, near Remington and Mary). They were interacting as though there is a nest, but it was too dark to tell. Cooper's Hawks raised two young in the park two years ago. I'll check them out further in the next few days.
Charles Coston
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From email@hidden Mon May 08 11:14:20 2000
Subject: [SBB] Sunday Birds
--------
Hello All:
On Sunday May 7, I birded Steven's Canyon for all the arriving summer
species. The light rain kept everybody singing the entire morning. The
winter birds are all gone but I saw 50 species total. The highlights were a
winter-plumaged PACIFIC LOON (some gray feathers coming in on the neck) and
a CASPIAN TERN at the reservoir; a GREAT-BLUE HERON at Camp Castonoan; 10
singing YELLOW WARBLERS (I saw 3 of the females as well), 3 OLIVE-SIDED
FLYCATCHERS (Eucalyptus), 4 singing CASSIN'S VIREOS, 1 SWAINSON'S THRUSH,
all along the lower creek; a DOWNY WOODPECKER feeding young near the group
picnic area; no Dippers and not many other warblers.
Steve Miller
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Attachment
2.6 KBytes
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From email@hidden Mon May 08 11:40:08 2000
Subject: [SBB] SCVAS Mines Road trip
--------
I had never been on Mines Road, or anywhere in the area of this SCVAS trip.
We began at the Highway #5 Patterson Road exit on Saturday, May 6 at
8:30AM. At .2 miles we had a GRASSHOPPER SPARROW sitting on a fencepost
along the road with an adult and immature GOLDEN EAGLE soaring in the
valley behind it. At .7 miles we stopped because a BURROWING OWL flew in
front of us. It landed on a fence post, next to a second one. Then I
noticed a couple of "different" birds sitting on a fence closer to us. They
were lifers for me, BLUE GROSBEAKS, a male and a female. They flew to the
thistle behind the fence the owls were sitting on. Then on another post,
between the grosbeaks and the owls was an ASH-THROATED FLYCATCHER. Birds
were within perhaps 20 feet of each other. Definately a sight to behold.
We saw LAWRENCE'S GOLDFINCHES at several locations and the LEWIS WOODPECKER
where it had been reported sighted. A BARN OWL was inside a hole in some
high rocks...easy to detect due to the whiteness below the hole. Had
wonderful views of COSTA'S HUMMINGBIRDS at 2 different locations.
A pair of NORTHERN-ROUGH-WINGED SWALLOWS were nesting in the bank next to
the road. A pair of CANYON WRENS appeared to be nesting. Altogether we had
6 GOLDEN EAGLES. A pair of PHAINOPELPLA were at the last stop on our trip.
I saw 64 species...if you add to that birds I missed or birds heard, the
trip list was probably 80. A delightful day with perfect weather.
Gloria LeBlanc
"We can't change the financial winds, but we can adjust the sails"
http://www.lgsia.com http://www.wallstreetgifts.com
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From email@hidden Mon May 08 15:00:15 2000
Subject: [SBB] Mines Rd., San Antonio Valley, Del Puerto Cyn.
--------
Hi all,
[Sorry for the cross posting duplicates that some of you may get.]
On Sat., 5/6/00, I took part of my birding class on our spring run down
the Mines Rd. route, starting in Alameda County, into Santa Clara County,
finishing in Stanislaus County.
Alameda County:
At the Murrietta Wells Winery stop, we found a very vocal pair of
AMERICAN KESTREL visiting one of the nest boxes along the creek. They
were both going in and out the box, and I don't think any carrying of
food or nesting material was noticed. About 40 feet downstream, at the
next box, a female WOOD DUCK was checking out the accommodations; she
eventually entered this box. Her mate was perched nearby on a snag over
the creek. These boxes are the obvious ones on the west bank about 100
yds. north of the winery access road and are easily viewed from the
edge of the vineyards on the east side. Directly west of this point,
sighting along and on the northside of the telephone lines crossing
the creek, is a grove of tall eucalyptus. A dark morph RED-TAILED HAWK
was perched here above a nest with 3 visible, fuzzy nestlings. No Great
Horned Owl nest was seen this year in this area.
Along Mines Rd. just past the fork to Del Valle Reservoir, we saw 4
GOLDEN EAGLEs. 2 were subadults. At the bridge near MP 4.7, a male
PHAINOPEPLA appeared to be going to a nest above the home on the west
side of the road. There was a WESTERN KINGBIRD nest in this tree also.
Near MP 5.5 before the sharp bend with a lot of sticky monkey flowers,
we pulled over because the Mt. Diablo Audubon was stopped at the higher
turnout. This proved to be fortuitous for us as we had two singing
RUFOUS-CROWNED SPARROWS in the sage below the road.
Santa Clara County:
We didn't stop, but the creek area around Ruthie's Treasures n' Trash
was quiet and the riparian vegetation was thin and low. It wasn't as
thick as a couple of years ago, when Yellow-breasted Chat was found.
A pair of LAWRENCE'S GOLDFINCH made a showing at the Junction, going
to the fiddleneck at the edge of the parking lot. A female selasphorus
hummingbird was among the crowd of ANNA'S at the Junction. WESTERN
BLUEBIRD and EUROPEAN STARLING were nesting in the trees above the
picnic tables. These oaks were THICK with some kind of lepidoptera
larva; they were crawling over several tables and up your legs if you
set your feet on the ground. More LAGO were seen at the firestation.
About .25 mi. south of the Junction, 2 LEWIS'S WOODPECKER were seen
apparently carrying food to a nest. About 4.5 mi. south of the Junction
we found CHIPPING and LARK SPARROW.
Stanislaus County:
At the turnout at MP 10.4(?), we had CANYON WREN, a distant male COSTA'S
HUMMINGBIRD, and another hummer that appeared to be an immature Costa's,
but I don't know if a fledgling would be expected at this time. It looked
like a Costa's in shape and size, it was a bit dusky on the flanks and
the bill looked proportionately long and curved, compared to Anna's. I
supposed a young Black-chinned is also a possibility. It it didn't seem
white enough on the undersides to be a female BCHU. A COMMON RAVEN nest
is above the turnout in road cut.
A SAY'S PHOEBE was seen along the road further east.
At the popular Costa's Hummer spot east of the grafitti rocks, we had
another gorgeous male COSTA'S.
The only warbler seen was a singing WILSON'S. BULLOCK'S ORIOLEs were
easily the most abundant bird of the day; they seemed unusually
plentiful. No Sage Sparrows at the cattle guard, not even a peep of
a song. No Lazuli Buntings. No Grasshopper Sparrows, no Burrowing Owls.
Les Chibana
Palo Alto
email@hidden
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From email@hidden Mon May 08 17:25:18 2000
Subject: [SBB] birds
--------
Some birding highlights from this weekend:
On Saturday, 6 May 00, I went to Almaden Reservoir and birded Alamitos
Road at the feeder creek end. It was quite birdy here, with lots of
singing. A female YELLOW WARBLER was carrying nesting material high into
an oak along the road. A female selasphorus hummingbird was foraging
through the trees in a manner that indicated she was looking for insects
or nesting material (no flowers), and I assume she is a resident
ALLEN'S. A pair of WESTERN WOOD-PEWEES was present, with the female
checking out nest sites. PURPLE FINCHES were singing and feasting on
willow catkins. An OLIVE-SIDED FLYCATCHER was singing from the top of a
nearby eucalyptus. A female COMMON MERGANSER was in the creek in front
of the O'Day's residence.
On Sunday I birded along the Bay edge. Nothing too fantastic. I had a
flock of about 25 RED-NECKED PHALAROPES in the impoundment north of
Alviso Marina. An adult PEREGRINE FALCON was along the entrance road
into the EEC.
Mike Mammoser
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From email@hidden Tue May 09 04:47:24 2000
Subject: [SBB] Weekend birds
--------
On Saturday, I checked out CCFS in the morning. The was a mostly
summer-plumaged Stilt Sandpiper in with the many dowitchers. There were
also 105 Dunlin, but not much else, although I found 6 Red-necked
Phalaropes in quick check in the afternoon.
Later that morning I headed up to Loma Prieta. I found a singing
Black-chinned Sparrow there, past where the paving ends (the road is paved
further than it used to be). Other highlights included Lazuli Bunting,
California Thrasher, and Blue-gray Gnatcatcher.
A quick check of the impoundment N of the Alviso marina turned up
disappointingly few shorebirds.
On Sunday, I had time for a quick of CCFS again. In addition to the Stilt
Sandpiper, I found 2 Western Kingbirds and a Warbling Vireo, although the
swarms of mosquitos deterred me from a serious look for passerine migrants.
Nick
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From email@hidden Tue May 09 09:02:21 2000
Subject: [SBB] CEWA
--------
Yesterday, 8 May 00, I had a flock of 15-18 CEDAR WAXWINGS along Coyote
Creek south of Hellyer. It should be getting towards the end of their
winter stay in the area.
Mike Mammoser
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From email@hidden Tue May 09 09:25:16 2000
Subject: [SBB] WHPE
--------
Folks:
There were seven AM. WHITE PELICANS in the North Pond at the Palo Alto
FCB this morning, 5/9/2000. I saw only two BLACK SKIMMERS on the small island
in the SE corner of Salt Pond A1.
Bill
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From email@hidden Tue May 09 10:28:28 2000
Subject: [SBB] Re: CEWA
--------
I've still been seeing Cedar Waxwings in many places. Just this morning,
a small flock flew by my office near the Forebay. We saw them along Mines
Rd. this weekend. I recall that Steve Rottenborn noted that they often
linger into June.
>From your subject line, I honestly thought that you had found a Cerulean
Warbler!
Les Chibana
On Tuesday, May 9, 2000, Mike Mammoser wrote:
>Yesterday, 8 May 00, I had a flock of 15-18 CEDAR WAXWINGS along Coyote
>Creek south of Hellyer. It should be getting towards the end of their
>winter stay in the area.
>
>Mike Mammoser
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From email@hidden Tue May 09 10:52:42 2000
Subject: [SBB] Re:SF fallout
--------
In San Francisco Sunday and yesterday morning we experienced an unusual
spring migrant fallout...several places that were birded produced high
denisity of northbound migrants: Lobos Dunes, field west of LIncoln Park
Golf Course, North Lake in Golden Gate Park, Mt. Davidson, Glen Canyon.
Today conditions were back to normal.
In addition to very large numbers of Cedar Waxwings, species included: Bul
Or B-H Gros Laz Bunting GC Sparrow Wilson Warblers Town Warb
Herm Warb OC Warb Yel Warb at least one Macgil Warb and one Chat
Sw Thrush PS and OS Flyc and a Hammond's Flyc Warb Vireo and Sol
Vireo...also two Spotted Sandpipers in unusual locales
It is likely that the low pressure, very low fog and steady, unseasonal
rain combined to force more migrants to stop in the city where in normal
years they would have kept flying the few more miles to more open
spaces...and once down they needed to eat and the acres of cement forced
them into the slices of habitat that afforded feed
All of species were those that regularly migrate along West Coast, but the
density was extraordinary...I saw probably 60 individual Wilson Warblers in
a limited space in less than an hour Monday morning, other birders out
Monday reported similar unusual densities of some species
At one point mid-day Sunday I witnessed what I can only call a stream of OC
Warblers, feeding frantically and flying along a field near the VA
Hospital, certainly over a hundred birds seen in fifteen minutes, and due
to very low fog and heavy rain those more than fifty feet overhead would
have been invisible...there were a few other birds in with them, but it was
nearly a pure OC Warbler flock...it was the kind of thing you see at Cape
May in the fall...sadly I think the birds were in dire straits, hungry,
fog-bound and driven north by the hormones in bad weather....hope they made
it across the Golden Gate.
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From email@hidden Tue May 09 11:11:01 2000
Subject: Re: [SBB] Re: CEWA
--------
It's my experience too that they will stay into early June.
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From email@hidden Tue May 09 12:50:10 2000
Subject: Re: [SBB] Re: CEWA
--------
Waxwings into the first week of June are normal for the central coast region.
But it has been my impression that in May and June we do not so much have
lingering birds as we have a passage of migrants. On many occasions I've seen
strong north-bound flights involving many flocks, and (at least in Santa Cruz
County) it is not unusual for overall numbers to increase quite a bit in May
versus late winter and early spring.
David Suddjian, Capitola
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From email@hidden Tue May 09 14:47:40 2000
Subject: Re: [SBB] Re: CEWA
--------
I would agree, based on observations at my apartment complex, that Waxwings
actually get commoner in spring. I almost liken to the influxes of Evening
Grosbreaks that occur in Portland (and the Willamette Valley) in OR in
April/May. Perhaps there is some food source the waxwings like right now.
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From email@hidden Tue May 09 14:53:32 2000
Subject: [SBB] Some county birds
--------
All,
This morning during a quick check of Alum Rock Park (North Rim Trail and the
Todd L. Quick Loop Trail) Frank Vanslager and I saw a singing Canyon Wren (on
stacks of wood in a fenced-off area just past the east end of the parking
lot), Lazuli Buntings (a few seen but several more heard singing),
Rufous-crowned Sparrows (a few seen, one singing), a pair of Western
Kingbirds, at least one silent Olive-sided Flycatcher, at least one Western
Wood Pewee (one seen another heard calling), several Ash-throated
Flycatchers, many Bullock's Orioles (including first spring adult males),
Black-headed Gosbeaks and male selasphorous hummingbirds. A Hutton's Vireo
was easily heard in the valley and a Western Tanager was heard doing it's two
note call but we were unable to find it.
We then went to CCFS to try and find the Stilt Sandpiper. Unfortunately the
first pond (in which it was found) was essentially empty, the pond near the
trailers had perhaps a hundred dowitchers, two Dunlin and two Marbled Godwit
(Black-necked Stilts & avocets). White-throated Swifts and Tree Swallows
flew low overhead. We then checked out the "Waterbird Pond" which is now
over full, compared to a week ago when it was nearly dry. The pond was so
full that, after circling several times, gulls would not land (it was
apparent that they wanted to land). The pond did have a few ducks including
a Northern Pintail and Cinnamon Teal.
Take care,
Bob Reiling, 2:48 PM, 5/9/00
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From email@hidden Tue May 09 15:05:49 2000
Subject: [SBB] Stilt Sandpiper
--------
The STILT SANDPIPER was at the first pond to the left of the road at CCFS
at about 9:30 this morning. It was with a large flock of Dowitchers and
about 30 DUNLIN. Kathy P.
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From email@hidden Tue May 09 16:06:26 2000
Subject: Re: [SBB] Re: CEWA
--------
At 2:47 PM -0700 5/9/00, email@hidden wrote:
> Perhaps there is some food source the waxwings like right now.
------------------------------------------------
They seem to feast on privet berries in spring in my neighborhood.
Other berry sources are long gone.
Ruth Troetschler
Ruth Troetschler
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From email@hidden Tue May 09 18:00:23 2000
Subject: Re: [SBB] Re: CEWA
--------
In a message dated 5/9/00 2:46:46 PM Pacific Daylight Time,
email@hidden writes:
<< Perhaps there is some food source the waxwings like right now. >>
An abundant natural food source that waxwings favor in spring are flowers of
madrone trees, common in the Santa Cruz Mountains.
David
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From email@hidden Tue May 09 18:19:41 2000
Subject: [SBB] Re: CEWA
--------
Just to add to the thread, I've had a flock of Cedar Waxwings at my
apartment complex next to Sunnyvale Community Center nearly every morning
for about 2 weeks.
Michael Wienholt
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From email@hidden Tue May 09 18:44:04 2000
Subject: [SBB] Re: CEWA
--------
To put my two cents worth in.... In my neighborhood, there is a flock of
CEWA that show up every year about mid-March and strip the local holly
trees and pyracantha bushes. They roost in my neighbor's Chinese Elm tree.
It usually takes them about 2 weeks and then they leave. This year, they
didn't show up until Apr. 17, and I last saw them Sunday. Every tree and
bush is now bare of berries. Kathy P.
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From email@hidden Tue May 09 19:10:36 2000
Subject: [SBB] CEDW vs. CEWA
--------
People--
The list I have gives the code for Cedar Waxwing as CEDW. Cerulean Warbler
is CERW. I don't know what CEWA is.
--Pete
------------------------------------------------------
Peter LaTourrette
Bird Photography: http://www.birdphotography.com/
Bird Photo Gallery: http://www.stanford.edu/~petelat1/
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From email@hidden Tue May 09 21:41:19 2000
Subject: [SBB] Poorwills, owls, etc.
--------
All,
I spent the night out at Hidden Villa in Los Altos Hills on Weds. 5/3/2000,
in part to check into old but persistent reports of poorwills in the area in
previous seasons. Sure enough, at least two Common Poorwills began calling
energetically between 2 and 3 am before they were drowned out by dogs and
roosters. Two or more were heard again calling as late as 5:30 AM on 5/4 as I
sought them out on the trail proceeding upslope from the youth hostel. I was
not able to locate the birds visually.
Owls heard on the same night included at least one Western Screech Owl (heard
throughout the night at various locations), a Barn Owl calling in flight, and
a duet between two Great Horned Owls. A walk at first light on 5/4 up into
the ridgeline chaparral yielded only one Lazuli Bunting and several Blue-gray
Gnatcatchers (other than the routine "unmentionables").
On the early morning of 5/5 I stopped in at Monte Bello OSP to see if there
were any unusual sparrows about. None were encountered in the vicinity of the
main parking lot, but a couple more Lazuli Buntings were actively chasing
each other around the Los Trancos OSP parking area just across the road.
At least two Western Tanagers continued at Hidden Villa through 5/4; one was
seen and heard today (5/9) as well. Purple Finches were especially vocal at
numerous locations at the farm today.
At least 15 butterfly species are currently flying at Hidden Villa (details
available on request.) It is the richest butterfly viewing area I've
encountered in the Bay Area to date, due in large part, I suspect, to the
nutrient-rich leavings of the farm animals there.
--Garth Harwood
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From email@hidden Wed May 10 09:35:29 2000
Subject: [SBB] Cedar Waxwings.
--------
Birders:
My vote is that these May influxes of waxwings are migratory movements.
This species is a late migrant throughout its range, the fact that they are
nomadic makes them a bit harder to pin down. It would be interesting to
find out how far south these birds are coming from! One point that has not
been mentioned is that waxwings are diurnal migrants and they flock,
therefore they are much more likely to be noticed than are other migrants.
Most of these flocks you see going over are in active migration, if you pay
close attention to the general direction they are moving in you will find
that most are going north right now. Any place where you see lots of
migrating flocks of waxwings at this time of year are spots to check
reguarly for other diurnal migrants (Western Kingbirds, swallows, robins,
blackbirds, bluebirds, Purple and House Finches, pipits etc.). I think that
we have not yet discovered the good places to look for diurnal migrants,
particularly in the Peninsula and San Francisco, where these birds are more
likely to be concentrated.
Speaking of diurnal migrants, there were 5 Western Kingbirds at CCFS
yesterday. All on the fence bordering the levee. They were joined, by a
fence perching Ash-throated Flycatcher! No Stilt Sandpiper seen amongst the
Long-billed Dowitchers and Dunlin.
cheers,
Alvaro
Alvaro Jaramillo
Senior Biologist
San Francisco Bay Bird Observatory
P.O. Box 247
Alviso, CA 95002
(408)-946-6548
http://www.sfbbo.org/
Home of the California Fall Challenge!!
email@hidden
Birds of Chile and
New World Blackbirds at : http://www.sirius.com/~alvaro
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From email@hidden Wed May 10 11:00:19 2000
Subject: [SBB] Re: Cedar Waxwings
--------
Alvaro wrote:
> My vote is that these May influxes of waxwings are migratory movements.
> This species is a late migrant throughout its range, the fact that they are
> nomadic makes them a bit harder to pin down. It would be interesting to
> find out how far south these birds are coming from! One point that has not
> been mentioned is that waxwings are diurnal migrants and they flock,
> therefore they are much more likely to be noticed than are other migrants.
> Most of these flocks you see going over are in active migration, if you pay
> close attention to the general direction they are moving in you will find
> that most are going north right now. Any place where you see lots of
> migrating flocks of waxwings at this time of year are spots to check
> reguarly for other diurnal migrants (Western Kingbirds, swallows, robins,
> blackbirds, bluebirds, Purple and House Finches, pipits etc.). I think that
> we have not yet discovered the good places to look for diurnal migrants,
> particularly in the Peninsula and San Francisco, where these birds are more
> likely to be concentrated.
About a week ago (sorry, I don't recall the precise date) I had up to 180
Waxwings in several flocks along Stevens Creek north of L'Avenida. And yes,
their general direction of movement was north, toward the Bay (although they
were certainly taking their time about it, mainly feeding). But I didn't see
much in the way of other migrants on Alvaro's list -- well, lots of House
Finches, but how do I know if they are migrants? [Not much in the way of
nocturnal migrants, either -- a bunch of Wilson's Warblers and a Warbling
Vireo.]
By the way, I can't resist noting that the one professional ornithologist to
post on this thread has used the full species name. How many list members
did we lose by heart attack at the thought of a Cerulean Warbler somewhere
out there to be found (before they ever read the clarifying text)? Just
another pitch for speaking in English....
Cheers, Al
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From email@hidden Wed May 10 11:32:37 2000
Subject: [SBB] Lazuli Bunting
--------
We spotted a LAZULI BUNTING over at Oka Ponds this morning. He was over in
the back of the most southerly perc pond next to the freeway. We also saw a
few CASPIAN TERNS among the many FORSTER'S TERNS fishing in the ponds that
are on the other side of the foot bridge.
Pat Curtis
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From email@hidden Wed May 10 12:44:45 2000
Subject: [SBB] migrants along Summit Road
--------
Hello SBB,
Continuing the CEDAR WAXWING thread, I was at Summit Road along the crest of
the Santa Cruz Mountains this morning (4 to 5 miles northwest of junction
with Mt. Madonna Road) and saw about 900 waxwings flying north and northwest
along the ridge. They were in numerous flocks, mostly 20-40 per flock. These
sorts of numbers are not unusual along the ridgelines in May. Also noted
going northwest along the crest were 12 BLACK SWIFTS which passed by in
flocks of 1-4 birds, and about 40 VAUX'S SWIFTS. Nocturnal migrants in the
knobcone pine forest included at least 12 HERMIT WARBLERS, 45-50 TOWNSEND'S
WARBLERS, about 15 BLACK-THROATED GRAY WARBLERS, about 20 WESTERN TANAGERS
and small numbers of other assorted species.
I walked down the road at Croy Ridge off Summit Road and had a male and
female PURPLE MARTIN flying around about 0.5 miles from Summit Road. I have
found martins nesting in this area in the past.
David Suddjian, Capitola
email@hidden
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From email@hidden Wed May 10 12:53:04 2000
Subject: Re: [SBB] Cedar Waxwings.
--------
In a message dated 5/10/00 10:19:26 AM Pacific Daylight Time,
email@hidden writes:
<< I think that we have not yet discovered the good places to look for
diurnal migrants, particularly in the Peninsula and San Francisco, where
these birds are more likely to be concentrated. >>
Well, one good place is in Santa Cruz County at the head of the San Lorenzo
River watershed at a spot called Summit Meadows. It is the grassland area
along the upper section of Highway 9, within the bounds of Castle Rock State
Park. Northbound diurnal and noctural migrants funnel up the upper San
Lorenzo canyon and shoot over the ridge into the upper Pescadero watershed or
continue along the main ridge of the mountains. Here I have seen impressive
numbers of many species in late April and early May, including diurnal
migrants (waxwings, swifts, hummers, kingbirds, even a Lewis's Woodpecker
once!) and nocturnal migrants still on the move in the early morning hours
(warblers, buntings, tanagers, grosbeaks, etc.).
I haven't checked the spot at the peak of migration often enough to know how
frequently there are good flights there, but out of some 8-10 visits over the
last 12 years I remember impressive bird numbers on at least 4 mornings.
Other times had nothing too special.
David Suddjian, Capitola
email@hidden
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From email@hidden Wed May 10 13:47:44 2000
Subject: Re: [SBB] Cedar Waxwings
--------
email@hidden wrote:
> By the way, I can't resist noting that the one professional ornithologist to
> post on this thread has used the full species name. How many list members
> did we lose by heart attack at the thought of a Cerulean Warbler somewhere
> out there to be found (before they ever read the clarifying text)? Just
> another pitch for speaking in English....
The old AOU code (or was it ABA?) for Cedar Waxwing was CEWA1, while the code for Cerulean
Warbler was CEWA2. Now admittedly, Pyle has updated these codes in his book to rid them of
the clarifying numbers at the end and to make them true four letter codes. I have no doubt
that other organizations have probably adopted them as well. I just figured that the
message body would explain it all.
I apologize for forgetting how little it takes to provide grist for the "frivolous" mill.
For those who would have a heart attack at the thought of a Cerulean Warbler in the area,
my advice is to find another avocation, because one's going to show up eventually and we
wouldn't want to lose you.
Mike Mammoser
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From email@hidden Wed May 10 14:12:49 2000
Subject: [SBB] Re: Cedar Waxwings
--------
Mike Mammoser wrote:
> I apologize for forgetting how little it takes to provide grist for the
> "frivolous" mill.
I don't know why it is frivolous to suggest that EMail subject lines (which
are, after all, what are seen in lists of saved mail messages), when they
refer to specific species, do so in a way which will be generally intelligible
to all recipients. I have neither the desire nor the power to insist on this;
it is just a suggestion, which some may take and others are likely to ignore.
I'll make do either way. But it is not frivolous ("unworthy of serious
attention" in the dictonary closest to hand), even with some feeble attempt at
humor added to reinforce the point.
Since this is one post too many without something about actual birds, I
apologize for that, and will leave it here.
Al
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From email@hidden Wed May 10 15:03:22 2000
Subject: [SBB] Cerulean Warbler vs. Cedar waxwing
--------
Just to save SBBer's from heart attacks, I looked up the correct (if South
Bay Birders Unltd.'s website is correct) 4-letter abbreviation for Cedar
Waxwing and Cerulean Warbler. Cedar Waxwing is CEDW and Cerulean Warbler is
CERW and there is no CEWA at all. Upon further investigation, I found the
abbreviation CEDW is the Bird Banding Lab's code and CWAX is the code for
the Breeding Bird Survey. I presume it is this way because of the
"collision" of the two possible abbreviations using their rules. The more I
read, the more code lists I found. So no wonder everyone's confused and in
cardiac arrest! Another code list avoids the whole problem and uses 6-letter
abbreviations (used for Christmas Bird Count data). If you have nothing
better to do, follow the links on SBBUnltd.'s website starting at the
"Birders Use Four-letter Words" link http://www.stanford.edu/~kendric/birds/
From email@hidden Wed May 10 19:13:38 2000
Subject: [SBB] San Francisquito Creek
--------
Birders,
On a nice lunch time stroll along the San Francisquito Creek in Menlo
Park today I came across a large flock of about 30 CEDAR WAXWINGS. (I
thought I would make my contribution to the thread...) There was also a
BELTED KINGFISHER, an ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLER, a BEWICK'S WREN,
VIOLET-GREEN and NORTHERN ROUGH-WINGED SWALLOWS. A singing male
BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAK, which was the target bird for my lunch hour, made
a brief appearance in the buckeye tree as well. The area is located at
the corner of University Drive and Creek Drive on the north side of the
creek; just across from the Stanford Shopping Center parking lot. A
trail leads down to the water.
Matthew
http://www.birdguy.net/
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From email@hidden Thu May 11 07:37:54 2000
Subject: [SBB] Bird codes
--------
All,
In the interest of good health I would like to suggest that when posting to
SBB that the first time a bird is mentioned (especially in the Subject line)
that it's name be spelled out. (None of us are so tired, lazy or efficient
that we can't type out the name at least once, especially if it's a truly
rare bird.) Even if one uses the right code some people without "lists" (and
there are lots of different lists) will not know what bird is being talked
about. Even with lists a long line of codes can make for difficult reading.
I remember once giving up and asking the author of a post what SPDO stood for
(I know that you all know that it's Spotted Dove). Finally the six letter
code used on one Birdwest post without clarification (and they've even added
a seventh space) has caused me to stop reading it. Just how much effort is
being saved with this code?
Take care,
Bob Reiling, 7:34 AM, 5/11/00
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From email@hidden Thu May 11 08:26:29 2000
Subject: [SBB] Ode to a Code :-)
--------
Just for fun. Go to the webpage of
ODE TO A CODE by Eric V. Johnson in
"San Luis Obispo County Birds"
http://www.calpoly.edu/~mstiles/code.html
Al
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From email@hidden Thu May 11 08:43:10 2000
Subject: Re: [SBB] Bird codes
--------
All:
I think the codes are OK when it's a common bird, but for real rarities the
subject should contain the full name or an obvious abbreviation (e.g R-N
Stint).
Nick
email@hidden
Sent by: To: email@hidden
email@hidden cc:
anford.EDU Subject: [SBB] Bird codes
05/11/00 07:37 AM
All,
In the interest of good health I would like to suggest that when posting to
SBB that the first time a bird is mentioned (especially in the Subject line)
that it's name be spelled out. (None of us are so tired, lazy or efficient
that we can't type out the name at least once, especially if it's a truly
rare bird.) Even if one uses the right code some people without "lists" (and
there are lots of different lists) will not know what bird is being talked
about. Even with lists a long line of codes can make for difficult reading.
I remember once giving up and asking the author of a post what SPDO stood for
(I know that you all know that it's Spotted Dove). Finally the six letter
code used on one Birdwest post without clarification (and they've even added
a seventh space) has caused me to stop reading it. Just how much effort is
being saved with this code?
Take care,
Bob Reiling, 7:34 AM, 5/11/00
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From email@hidden Thu May 11 09:21:54 2000
Subject: [SBB] WHPE, BLSK
--------
Folks:
This morning, 5/11/2000, I counted 26 AM. WHITE PELICANS in Salt Pond
A1. It seems likely that these birds are oversummering in the South Bay. Two
BLACK SKIMMERS were on the island in the SE corner of A1.
Bill
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From email@hidden Thu May 11 09:50:33 2000
Subject: [SBB] S.C.2000 Bird List Update
--------
Bill Bousman Has updated the Santa Clara County Bird List as of April 30, 2000.
The complete information can be found on:
South Bay Birders Unlimited (SBBU)
http://www.stanford.edu/~kendric/birds/
Here is the summary:
Before corrections the March 2000 tally was 209 species for Santa Clara
County. I've done a little clean-up, and the following six records are changes
from my previous summary. Five are new while the House Wren is a date change.
42 Wood Duck 1/12/00 TRy 3
160 Glaucous Gull 1/28/00 AJ 5
266 House Wren 3/19/00 JY, AL 2
320 Wilson's Warbler 3/10/00 MJM 1
324 Western Tanager 3/27/00 KPa 3
367 Hooded Oriole 3/21/00 LY 3
This brings the total to 214 for March.
April is, of course, the rush of returning birds, and we've
added 27 species, including one "6", a Broad-winged Hawk,
for a total of 241.
6 Common Loon 4/15/00 DLSu 4
29 Cattle Egret 4/22/00 AME 5
78 Broad-winged Hawk 4/20/00 MMR 6
79 Swainson's Hawk 4/22/00 MJM 5
112 Solitary Sandpiper 4/25/00 KPa 5
134 Stilt Sandpiper 4/16/00 PJM 5
163 Caspian Tern 4/3/00 TRy 2
186 Long-eared Owl 4/26/00 MDo 5
191 Common Poorwill 4/3/00 JMa 3
194 Vaux's Swift 4/15/00 DLSu 4
199 Calliope Hummingbird 4/6/00 RCo 5
215 Olive-sided Flycatcher 4/14/00 JMa 2
216 Western Wood-Pewee 4/23/00 JMa, MJM 2
219 Hammond's Flycatcher 4/9/00 MMR 5
226 Ash-throated Flycatcher 4/14/00 DL 2
236 Cassin's Vireo 4/2/00 JY, AL 2
253 Bank Swallow 4/23/00 PJM 5
275 Townsend's Solitaire 4/20/00 DE, CV 5
276 Swainson's Thrush 4/29/00 m.ob. 2
293 Nashville Warbler 4/9/00 MMR 4
301 Black-throated Gray Warbler 4/9/00 m.ob. 3
317 MacGillivray's Warbler 4/23/00 AV 4
321 Yellow-breasted Chat 4/29/00 m.ob. 5
330 Chipping Sparrow 4/2/00 JY, AL 3
355 Blue Grosbeak 4/30/00 DG 5
356 Lazuli Bunting 4/15/00 GHa 2
377 Lawrence's Goldfinch 4/9/00 MMR 3
As of the end of April we have all the "1's" and are missing only two
"2's": Wilson's and Red-necked Phalarope. Early May has already erased
Red-necked Phalarope, and we'll certainly see Wilson's next month if not in
May. All the "3's" are in except Brown Pelican, which will show up in
summer. Thus all the easy birds have been found. The rest of the year will
be a struggle as we try to make 300 species.
-----------------------------------------
Kendric C. Smith, Ph.D.
927 Mears Court
Stanford, CA 94305-1041
(650) 493-7210 (voice or fax)
email@hidden
http://www.stanford.edu/~kendric/
------------------------------------------
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From email@hidden Thu May 11 11:36:54 2000
Subject: [SBB] Smith's Creek etc.
--------
All,
Early this morning 5/11/00, I spent 2 hours birding the Smith's Creek
Ranger Station area of Grant Ranch County Park. As expected for early
May, the place was loaded with migrants. Unfortunately the variety,
especially of the less common species, was limited. Totals for the
area included 34 TOWNSEND'S WARBLERS, 21 WILSON'S WARBLERS, 13 LAZULI
BUNTINGS, 9+ WESTERN TANAGERS, 4+ PACIFIC-SLOPE FLYCATCHERS,
2 SWAINSON'S THRUSHES, 2 HERMIT WARBLERS (1 male and 1 female), and
1 or 2 very late GOLDEN-CROWNED SPARROWS. At least 4 CHIPPING SPARROWS
were near the buildings, along with two pairs of LAWRENCE'S GOLDFINCHES
(another pair of LAGO was upslope from here). Also singing near here
were an OLIVE-SIDED FLYCATCHER, 2 WESTERN WOOD-PEWEES, and at least
1 CASSIN'S VIREO.
A quick check of the Canal Trail down near Grant Lake failed to turn
up any chats, but there were 8 WILSON'S WARBLERS, 6 YELLOW WARBLERS,
5 LAZULI BUNTINGS, 4 PACIFIC-SLOPE FLYCATCHERS, and a SWAINSON'S THRUSH
in the riparian and 4 VAUX'S SWIFTS with swallows over Grant Lake.
Also another WESTERN TANAGER singing from the eucalyptus grove. Most
surprising was a singing GRASSHOPPER SPARROW on the fenceline right
where the trail comes out at the road near McCreery Lake - I haven't
had them here before.
Mike Rogers
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From email@hidden Thu May 11 15:04:02 2000
Subject: [SBB] Owl
--------
Western Screech Owl site will be updated over the week-end. Four babies
alive and growing. For directions to Owl open house reply to me.
Tuesday, May 16
7-7:25 PM
if you want to check out my backyard, you can...not too much
exciting...will probably see Band-tailed Pigeons, California Quail and some
LBJ's. California Thrasher tends to be gone by that time of day as well as
Hooded Orioles.
7:30 PM PROMPT
caravan to owl house
at owl house we will see abut a 20 minute video from clips recorded this
year...infrared camera has provided some great shots at night...besides the
video we will watch on their big screen TV what is happening right then in
the nest box...including audio.
she's left box as early as 8:15 pm...he's been there as early as 8:30
pm...no guaranteers, obviously. the idea that once she leaves we can see
babies in box even better, and see in real life at least one of the parents.
probably can leave by 9 pm at latest. but, as you know the owls don't know
MY schedule!
those that have already RSVP'd and I've confirmed...don't respond again.
Gloria LeBlanc
Los Gatos off Quito
"We can't change the financial winds, but we can adjust the sails"
http://www.lgsia.com http://www.wallstreetgifts.com
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From email@hidden Thu May 11 16:36:23 2000
Subject: [SBB] Redwood Shores Surprises
--------
While surveying Heron/Egret/Cormorant nests at Redwood Shores (I know, not SCCO)the past two days I had three surprise birds: American Goldfinch pair (no habitat for them there); Horned Lark pair; Blue-winged Teal (migratory or very late?). The AMGO and BUTE are new, the HOLA only one prior in 10 years of regular visits.
___________________________________________________________________
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From email@hidden Thu May 11 22:05:14 2000
Subject: [SBB] Santa Teresa Co. Park 5/11/2000
--------
All,
A midafternoon check of the Stile Ranch Trail at the western edge of Santa
Teresa County Park today (5/11/2000) yielded several singing Rufous-crowned
Sparrows. A minimum of 3 individuals were seen, two of which were attending
vocal young about 1/4 mile from the trailhead in sage-dominated chapparal. A
single Western Kingbird was near the trailhead, as were at least 3
Yellow-billed Magpies (the latter may be of interest due to this rather
westerly location for YBMA).
A surprise find was a single, very pale Horned Lark with very worn plumage
sitting in the trail about 1/2 mile from the trailhead in true grassland. One
Grasshopper Sparrow was heard singing faintly nearby.
Butterflies included Acmon Blue and California Ringlet (1 each) and plenty of
Buckeyes.
--Garth Harwood
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From email@hidden Fri May 12 09:45:34 2000
Subject: [SBB] lost falcon
--------
Please flame gently if this message is inappropriate for the list.
The bird described below was seen last night near the Crittenden
Lane trailhead of Stevens Creek trail. It looks a bit like a
Prairie Falcon (brownish) but with little streaking on the breast.
See also the notice posted on the board at the trailhead.
>March 21, 2000 @ noon - Ray Pena (visiting falconer from N.Y.) lost
>in Sunnyvale, at Bayland Park in the Mountain View Area, his adult
>male Lanner x White Gyrfalcon Hybrid. He uses a M&S 20 260 MgH
>Receiver and can locate the signal strongest at "062 1/2". Altough
>the transmitter is suppose to work on "064" He says you can pick it
>up anywhere from, "062 - 064" using a M&S 10 receiver.
>The bird is wearing a name tag, with a N.Y. Phone number on it (914
>area code). The bird will respond to a lure. But it also will not
>hesitate to take a duck for dinner! If found, contact Ray at
>904-679-4265. Or contact Patti Castle 916-987-8338
>(email@hidden) or Bill Murphy 408-722-6890, both of these
>people are in contact with Ray regularly.
-- Lennie Stovel, doing a favor (I hope) for a fellow who is
spending his day looking for this bird -- maybe one of you
sharp-eyed Stevens Creek regulars will spot it and let him know
To: email@hidden
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From email@hidden Fri May 12 10:37:58 2000
Subject: [SBB] Re: Pescadero field trip
--------
For anyone who might have been contemplating participating in tomorrow's
SCVAS field trip to the Pescadero area, but stopped reading when he or she
saw the starting time, I just wanted to point out that there is an optional
late-arrival time (50 minutes later) in the text of the field trip announce-
ment in the Avocet. I can't make any predictions for the trip, but I hope
to see at least a few of you there.
Cheers, Al
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From email@hidden Fri May 12 10:40:40 2000
Subject: [SBB] Borrowing Owl Mtg!
--------
Folks,
Tuesday afternoon, May 16 at 1:30 p.m. the San Jose City Council
will be looking
at their proposed Burrowing Owl Habitat Conservation strategy (could also
just be called a Burrowing Owl protection plan).
All San Jose Residents Are Encouraged to Attend!!!!!
Here's the basics. The Plan calls for 1500 acres to be set aside
for the owls between now and the year 2020. They get credit for about 300
acres at SJ Airport, and they can buy 250 acres outside the city; the other
900 or so acres must be found within the city. It will primarily be city
owned land, but some developments may contribute land as well (e.g. Legacy
in Alviso just set aside about 25 acres for the owls).
The plan will be funded by a $5000 per acre fee on all development
above about an acre in SJ.
This would be the first Habitat Conservation Plan in the Nation
that is driven by a non-listed species. You can encourage the city to do
something that would set a model for other urban areas.
Signals I get look worrying. The Home Builders Association has
weighed in against us, as have several developers and proerty owners. The
Council may try to use some excuse like "there's not enough good science
here" to kill the plan.
I could really use your help. Please do one or more of the
following things.
1) Show up on Tuesday afternoon, 801 North First Street, San Jose, just
south of HWY 880 near HWY 101 interchange. The meeting will start at 1:30.
2) Fax a letter in support of the plan to
Mayor Ron Gonzales and Council Members
801 North First Street
San Jose, California 95110
Fax # is 277-5192
The Fax needs to get there Monday, or Tuesday morning at the latest.
You're letter can be very short, just support the plan and urge them to
move forward quickly.
3) Call the Mayor's office. Ask him what his position on the plan is and
urge him to support it and move forward. Mayor Ron Gonzales' number is
277-4237.
4) If you live in San Jose, Please call your City Council person, ask them
what their position is on the issue, and tell them you want the Council to
support the plan and move forward.
Thanks!! If you manage to help, you might want to let me know,
just so I can keep tabs on things.
Please forward this email to friends and family, so long as they
aren't part of the San Jose military industrial complex.
Thanks again,
Craig
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From email@hidden Fri May 12 11:15:19 2000
Subject: [SBB] Where have all the hummers gone?
--------
First my apologies to all those who got an "away message" from my machine
each time they posted to SBB. I had to fly out to South AFrica to see my
Dad who was evry ill (he passed away while I was there), and had to leave
in such a rush that I forgot to unsubscribe for my time away.
Now returned, I have to ask- what has happened to all the hummingbirds?
There were plenty around throughout winter, in fact one raised two chicks
successfully right outside my office winter in January, but now they seem
to have disappeared. I have none coming to the feeders in my garden,
either- this time last year it was "hummer war"
Any ideas?
Dave Muir
Dr David G Muir,
Scientific Desk Editor,
Immunological Reviews.
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From email@hidden Fri May 12 11:36:26 2000
Subject: Re: [SBB] Where have all the hummers gone?
--------
Interesting you should mention this. They've been pretty scarce in my Palo
Alto yard, too and I've been wondering as well...
Nancy Teater
At 11:15 AM 5/12/2000 -0700, David G Muir wrote:
>First my apologies to all those who got an "away message" from my machine
>each time they posted to SBB. I had to fly out to South AFrica to see my
>Dad who was evry ill (he passed away while I was there), and had to leave
>in such a rush that I forgot to unsubscribe for my time away.
>
>Now returned, I have to ask- what has happened to all the hummingbirds?
>There were plenty around throughout winter, in fact one raised two chicks
>successfully right outside my office winter in January, but now they seem
>to have disappeared. I have none coming to the feeders in my garden,
>either- this time last year it was "hummer war"
>
>Any ideas?
>
>Dave Muir
>
>Dr David G Muir,
>Scientific Desk Editor,
>Immunological Reviews.
>
>
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--
Nancy R. Teater Hamilton Communications phone: +1 650 321 0252
email@hidden http://web.hamilton.com fax: +1 650 327 4660
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From email@hidden Fri May 12 11:55:51 2000
Subject: [SBB] WARBLING VIREO
--------
Yesterday, while walking in Guadalupe Oak Grove Park I had a good look at my
first WARBLING VIREO. I had met up with another birder by accident and we
confirmed the sighting in the Nat'l Geo. Guide. She had earlier seen two
WESTERN TANAGERS. I still haven't been able to refind the BROWN NUTALL.
The RED SHOULDERED HAWK makes itself very visible and audible!
My backyard QUAIL have dwindled to two. The male stands guard while the
female indulges in the seed. He frequently stands on the fence and makes a
singular call note, rather than the CHICAGO sound. I believe he is
attempting to call her to him. Last year on July 16, I first noticed about
20 QUAIL in my yard, which appeared to be four adults and the rest were
young of varying size. I can hardly wait!
Barbara Harkleroad
Almaden Area
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From email@hidden Fri May 12 12:02:14 2000
Subject: [SBB] Hummers
--------
Having just read my "bird mail", I too, have been wondering about the
Hummers. I refilled my feeder this morning, simply because the nectar was
getting old due to lack of use. I have not had my yearly Orioles, either.
Barbara Harkleroad
Almaden Area
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From email@hidden Fri May 12 12:23:10 2000
Subject: Re: [SBB] Hummers
--------
If you are used to seeing the hummingbirds mostly around feeders, the lull
may just be a matter of changing priorities. The male Anna's who owns my
feeder disappeared almost entirely for two months at the start of breeding
season, but he's still in the area.
Kathleen Lee
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From email@hidden Fri May 12 12:39:49 2000
Subject: [SBB] Hummers, Western Tanager
--------
I've noticed no difference in the hummers in my yard...only have Anna's...I
have one feeder in front, one in back and they are both in very frequent
use by both male and female hummers. I've seen my male and female HOODED
ORIOLES in the bottle bush in my yard, but only twice have seen them at a
hummingbird feeder...and that was when they first arrived.
Saw my first WESTERN TANAGER in my yard today. The red on its head was
pretty splotchy. Also a male PURPLE FINCH.
Gloria LeBlanc
Los Gatos off Quito
"We can't change the financial winds, but we can adjust the sails"
http://www.lgsia.com http://www.wallstreetgifts.com
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From email@hidden Fri May 12 12:45:14 2000
Subject: [SBB] Re: Where have all the hummers gone?
--------
I had lots of activity at my feeders on Skyline Blvd. (Allen's dominating
Anna's, of all things) up until the cold weather systems arrived. In this
narrow view, my impression is that the weather stopped further migration
into our area and the ones that were present moved on to find clement
weather conditions.
I saw an Anna's at our feeders this morning. Last weekend, at the
beginning of the last series of systems, the feeders at San Antonio
Junction were jumping and the Costa's were active in Del Puerto Canyon.
Les Chibana
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From email@hidden Fri May 12 14:03:22 2000
Subject: [SBB] Black-chinned Hummingbirds, Red-necked & Wilson's Phalaropes
--------
All,
This morning Frank Vanslager and I went to Coyote Creek Field Station (CCFS).
There were a few dowitchers, two Dunlin and some "peeps" (mostly if not all
Western Sandpipers) but no Stilt Sandpiper :-(. You snooze, you lose. A few
Tree Swallows flew low overhead. We then checked out the "Waterbird Pond"
which still has to much water in it. We had earlier noted that the banders
were not in so we decided to bird along the creek where we saw two
Black-chinned Hummingbirds (multiple good looks at one male and saw it chase
another hummer, both had the same dry wing buzz), we heard (didn't see)
Swainson's Thrush and singing Wilson's Warblers, we saw three Vaux's Swift
flying down the creek, saw a Western Wood-Pewee (no eyering and the proximal
half of the lower mandible was yellow but it eventually called ending our
discussions), a juvenile Cooper's Hawk and a Warbling Vireo. When we got
back to the car Mike Rogers was checking out the shorebirds in the pond near
the banding trailers. He thought he had seen the Stilt Sandpiper with his
binoculars but before he could get it in his scope the birds flew and we were
subsequently unable to refind the bird (to make matters worse he had to leave
for a meeting).
We also left shortly thereafter seeing two, closely associating Loggerhead
Shrikes on our way out. We decided on a quick stop in Alviso. There we
found that the Environmental Education Center (EEC) was open so we thought we
would check out Salt Pond A16. In the southeast corner of the pond we found
a single (meaning one) alternate plumage female Red-necked Phalarope.
Further west, near the second man-made island, was a single (same meaning)
alternate plumage female Wilson's Phalarope. The only other "mentionables"
were several alternate plumage Eared Grebes.
Take care,
Bob Reiling, 1:56 PM, 5/12/00
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From email@hidden Fri May 12 16:24:35 2000
Subject: [SBB] Office visitor
--------
About an hour ago, my wife called my attention to an adult male WESTERN
TANAGER visiting the pond outside my office. While we were enjoying this
colorful visitor, a second tanager appeared. This one may have been a
second year male, it had a not-so-bright red mask that appeared to be too
extensive for a female. While seemingly odd to see these birds in this
location/habitat, near the Mtn. View Forebay, I do recall seeing them
along nearby Matadero Creek.
There were two fledgling Black Phoebes being shown the ropes by their
parents at the same pond. I think I saw the nestling Common Ravens
exercising their wings on the nest edge recently. This is at the raven
nest near the Forebay.
Les Chibana, Palo Alto, CA email@hidden
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From email@hidden Fri May 12 17:17:48 2000
Subject: [SBB] goslings....
--------
While taking my cocktoo down to the vet, I drove past the ponds on
Winchester just south of San Tomas. Standing next to the pond were a
proud pair of Canada Geese, showing off their three goslings -- still
downy but wandering around. They were hiding again on my return about
an hour later, but the goslings are clearly pre-flight, so they're
nesting in there somewhere.
--
Chuq Von Rospach - Plaidworks Consulting (mailto:email@hidden)
Apple Mail List Gnome (mailto:email@hidden)
And they sit at the bar and put bread in my jar
and say 'Man, what are you doing here?'"
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From email@hidden Fri May 12 17:32:00 2000
Subject: [SBB] WETA's
--------
Had up to seven calling ( and some singing) Western Tanagers in a two
block area ( maybe two acres) in residential Los Altos today (5/12).
Also had one in the Eucalypts across the street from my home in Belmont
this afternoon. Must be a wave going through.
Screech.
--
Paul L. Noble
"Screechowl"
email@hidden
^ ^
@ @
( v )
( )
/ \
m m
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From email@hidden Fri May 12 18:56:02 2000
Subject: [SBB] Ed Levin
--------
In deference to the ALEI (field marks described previously), I will refrain
from using four-letter codes for birds seen. May 12 from 9:00-12:00 while
on the road/trail by the sycamores above Sandy Wool Lake, I saw a male Blue
Grosbeak, a male Western Tanager and several Lawrence's Goldfinches, as
well as the regular species there.
--Pete
------------------------------------------------------
Peter LaTourrette
Bird Photography: http://www.birdphotography.com/
Bird Photo Gallery: http://www.stanford.edu/~petelat1/
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From email@hidden Sat May 13 10:22:42 2000
Subject: [SBB] LAGOs at Arastradero, nestbox happenings
--------
All,
At least 3 Lawrence's Goldfinches were at the extreme SE corner of the
Arastradero Preserve yesterday (5/12/00) at about 5PM, feeding with a few
Lessers in the tall mustard patch bordered by fiddleneck seedheads (it was
the fiddleneck, as usual, that they were actually feeding on). This location
is accessed by going uphill along a skinny, unofficial dirt trail from the
main Preserve parking lot.
A few results from my weekly nestbox check up there: current occupants
include one Tree Swallow nest with 6 eggs, 4 Western Bluebird nests with eggs
or young, one White-breasted Nuthatch nest with 5 eggs under incubation, and
an active House Finch nest with 4 eggs in a hanging nestbox. (This last is of
potential interest because HOFI are almost never attracted to nestboxes; out
of 6,000 nestbox reports collected across the state in '99, only 10 HOFI,
representing just 2 or 3 broods, were produced.)
At least 2 broods of House Wren are also underway in nestboxes on the
Preserve, and I have one batch of Bewick's coming along nicely as well. An
Ash-throated Flycatcher nest looks complete in another box, but lacks eggs at
this date. Several Violet-green Swallow nests are under construction as well.
Chestnut-backed Chickadees (1 brood) and Oak Titmice (3) are fledging this
week.
Speaking of chickadees and titmice, this is the time to do a head count (best
conservative estimate will do) of young birds in any backyard SC County
nestboxes you might have containing those species or any other. Please send
your data to me with date & general location too. Thanks!
--Garth Harwood
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From email@hidden Sat May 13 12:51:35 2000
Subject: [SBB] migrants in Mountain View 5/13
--------
Hi Everyone--
The feeder and adjacent trees at my apartment in Mountain View were busy
this morning (Saturday 5/13). At least 6 ANNA'S HUMMINGBIRDS, both males and
females (some, like my broken-billed male, are residents, but there seemed
to be new ones here, too), a singing WESTERN TANAGER in the trees, a singing
male BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAK that visited the feeder briefly, and quite the
surprise, a silent female ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK that came in around 10 AM
and spent a good two minutes munching on my millet, then disappeared. There
were heavy dark streaks on the sides, and no orangy wash on the chest. Clean
white supercilium, white throat with a fine dark malar streak. What I could
see of the wing linings was yellow, not pink, which just means it's not a
male. If I see it again, I'll post as soon as possible (I'll be away from
the computer on Sunday). If it doesn't come back, it could easily end up in
the willows along Stevens Creek. Also, 4 newly-fledged CHESTNUT-BACKED
CHICKADEES are in the shrubbery outside my apartment building (no nest box
involved).
Mark Miller
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From email@hidden Sat May 13 13:24:24 2000
Subject: [SBB] Oak Meadown/Vasona
--------
In preparation of the SCVAS trip I am leading on June 10th at Oak
Meadow/Vasona, I went birding there this morning. Had 4 nests with babies
peeping where I watched the parents back and forth feeding. In Oak Meadow
it was ACORN WOODPECKER. In Vasona it was 2 nests of CHICKADEES and a
NUTTALL'S.
While standing amidst some bushes a female ANNA'S approached me clicking. I
stood still. She came within a couple of feet my face. It seemed like we
were eyeball to eyeball and I wondered what she was thinking! It didn't
appear as if I was near her nest.
Saw a beautiful RED-SHOULDERED HAWK. Rookery had SNOWY EGRET, BLACK-CROWNED
NIGHT HERON, GREAT BLUE AND DOUBLE-BREASTED CORMERANTS.
Snack shack has hot dogs for $1.50 as well as other nibbles...so those who
attend the field trip on June 10th won't have to bring food for lunch
unless they want to....
Gloria LeBlanc
Los Gatos
"We can't change the financial winds, but we can adjust the sails"
http://www.lgsia.com http://www.wallstreetgifts.com
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From email@hidden Sat May 13 18:20:50 2000
Subject: [SBB] SCVAS Field Trip to Pescadero Area
--------
Please excuse the cross-posting: this is a report of a Santa Clara Valley
Audubon field trip to coastal San Mateo County. I'll submit a fuller (and more
coherent) report later for the Avocet, but just hit some highlights here.
Twelve birders enjoyed a fine day of birding on Saturday, May 13, with at
least 81 bird species seen. Highlights, organized by locations visited:
Pigeon Point - Pacific Loons dominated the northward migration. Also seen:
- 1 Wandering Tattler (close to full alternate plumage) was
quite cooperative at rocks just off Pigeon Point;
- At least 8 Marbled Murrelets were in the water.
Gazos Creek Road - We walked from Highway 1 up about 0.9 miles, and saw (or
heard singing) just about all the expected species, including:
- At least 1 Vaux's Swift was in the Swallow flock just beyond
the pumphouse.
- A pair of cooperative Swainson's Thrushes was seen; several
more were heard calling and one was heard singing;
- A male MacGillivray's Warbler sang in full view near the road
for more than five minutes, providing superb views; another
was heard singing. (This species is a regular nester here.)
- One male Western Tanager was seen by several of us near the
pumphouse; there were hints of 1 or 2 more farther upstream.
- Two people saw a Snowy Plover at the beach.
Pescadero Marsh - We looked over the lagoon and north marsh, and walked east
along the trail from the north side of the Highway 1 Bridge.
At the location where Ron Thorn had reported one Solitary
and one Spotted Sandpiper 4 days earlier (I'd estimate about
2/3 mile along), we all saw the Spotted. Bob Reiling also saw
a larger bird disappearing around the bend upstream which he
believed was the Solitary, but it didn't reappear. Also:
- A Wandering Tattler was at the Highway 1 bridge;
- At least 81 Caspian Terns were at the lagoon.
- One soaring adult Golden Eagle was being persistently harrassed
by a couple of Red-Tailed Hawks.
- A Yellow-Breasted Chat was singing along the trail just before
it reached a small hillside (close to a mile along). Although
it was fairly close, only two people were able to get brief
looks; but the song was fully diagnostic.
Cheers, Al
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From email@hidden Sun May 14 00:41:51 2000
Subject: [SBB] Pescadero area
--------
All,
Our Palo Alto Adult School Beginning Birding Group had a great day in
San Mateo county. Beginning with highlights at Phipp's Ranch we had at
least 4 BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAKS, including one male sitting and singing
while in the nest. A pair of WESTERN TANAGERS, WARBLING VIREOS, PURPLE
FINCHES, YELLOW and WILSON'S WARBLERS, BAND-TAILED PIGEONS, ALLEN'S
HUMMINGBIRD and BELTED KINGFISHER.
At Pigeon Point we had WADERING TATTLER, SURFBIRD and BLACK
OYSTERCATCHER as well as SOOTY SHEARWATER, COMMON and PACIFIC LOON,
PIGEON GUILLEMOT, CASSIN'S AUKLET, BLACK SCOTER and a small northbound
flock of BRANT.
The day's list is posted at:
http://www.birdguy.net/trip_report.html
Matthew Dodder
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From email@hidden Sun May 14 12:13:47 2000
Subject: [SBB] (no subject)
--------
On Saturday, 13 May 00, I had a pretty good day birding Coyote Creek
Field Station, where I had 10 species of warblers. In the riparian
corridor north of the banding trailers I found 2 YELLOW-BREASTED CHATS
singing about 150 yards apart. Also in this area was a silent
"HAMMOND'S" type flycatcher. On the trail south of the trailers I ran
into a decent flock that consisted of 4-5 WARBLING VIREOS, 6 WILSON'S
WARBLERS (numerous everywhere), 3 TOWNSEND'S WARBLERS, an ORANGE-CROWNED
WARBLER, a female HERMIT WARBLER, a NASHVILLE WARBLER, and 2
BLACK-THROATED GRAY WARBLERS. Down at ground level was a male
MACGILLIVRAY'S WARBLER. The warblers were rounded out by a couple of
YELLOWS and numerous COMMON YELLOWTHROATS. The only normally-occurring
species I missed was Yellow-rumped.
There were also tons of SWAINSON'S THRUSHES (46 were banded this day), a
couple WESTERN TANAGERS, a couple CASSIN'S VIREOS, a handful of
PACIFIC-SLOPE FLYCATCHERS, a WESTERN WOOD-PEWEE, and an ASH-THROATED
FLYCATCHER. At the heron rookery in the willows I saw 8 active GREAT
BLUE HERON nests and 10 GREAT EGRET nests. There were 2 more GREAT EGRET
nests in the adjacent cottonwood stand. Two broods of CANADA GEESE were
at the waterbird pond.
Elsewhere, I had 2 BURROWING OWLS at Arzino Ranch, and 50 EARED GREBES
out front of the Environmental Education Center (one of which was still
in basic plumage).
On Sunday, 14 May, I went to Ed Levin to try and find the Blue
Grosbeaks. I didn't have any luck with them, but there were 2-3 LAZULI
BUNTINGS, RUFOUS-CROWNED SPARROWS, a few singing GRASSHOPPER SPARROWS, a
HOUSE WREN, many LESSER GOLDFINCHES, and a few pairs of BULLOCK'S
ORIOLES. One of the oriole nests was interesting in that it was being
built from the bottom up and supported by the crotch of a branch, rather
than being suspended. The branchlets coming from the crotch were
vertical, so I imagine the birds will still produce a normal-looking
nest, only with side and bottom support. A pair of WESTERN KINGBIRDS was
building a nest in a eucalyptus down in the group picnic area.
Mike Mammoser
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From email@hidden Sun May 14 12:31:26 2000
Subject: [SBB] "my Farm"
--------
Amongst the wind and some sprinkles I birded "my farm" this morning. (La
Rinconada Park)
Perhaps 80-100 CEDAR WAXWINGS came into a live oak tree...in different
groups...very noisy...and roosted.
Saw an immature male BULLOCK'S ORIOLE, the GREEN HERON was in Smith Creek.
Nothing else noteworthy.
Gloria LeBlanc
Los Gatos off Quito
"We can't change the financial winds, but we can adjust the sails"
http://www.lgsia.com http://www.wallstreetgifts.com
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From email@hidden Sun May 14 16:18:51 2000
Subject: [SBB] Almaden-Quicksilver
--------
A brief, wet pass through the park around noon today turned up a female Wild
Turkey and Cassin's Vireo.
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From email@hidden Sun May 14 16:54:53 2000
Subject: [SBB] Palm Bird Checklist and Diary
--------
I know it's rather nerdish, but I keep track of my life list on my Palm
handheld.
If you also use a Palm handheld, you might be interested
in this checklist of over 900 North American birds from:
http://naturegardens.com
This is not a commercial site, it's just my personal homepage,
but of course the Palm unit and associated database software
are not free ;-