Bird Sightings Report

Bird Sightings Report, April 1 to April 31, 2013

Written by Roland on May 1, 2013 – 12:00 pm -

It is refreshing to again post the Bird Sightings Report. I appreciate your patience and interest in seeing what species are showing up in our area. Please send in your records and photos. Also, please see the information at the end of this report on NMOS Field Notes. You can play a role in documenting the bird life of New Mexico by submitting reports.

Quiz Bird

Photo by Dale Zimmerman, 24 April 2009, Silver City, NM

Species Accounts

Ducks and Geese: Ken Dayer reported the following species from the Tyrone sewage pond: Two Gadwalls (13 April); 12 American Wigeons (13 April); Mallards (eight on 5 April, 12 on 6 April, nine on 7 April, 61 on 13 April, 11 on 14 April, four on 21 April, and eight on 26 April); a Blue-winged Teal (5 April); Cinnamon Teal (five on 5 April, 12 on 6 April, 19 on 7 April, 18 on 13 April, 17 on 14 April, and 12 on 21 April); Northern Shovelers (188, 155, 143, 129, 153, 55, 26 on 5, 6, 7, 13, 14, 21 and 26 April, respectively. Also seen by Ken were a Green-winged Teal (5, 6, 13 April); Ring-necked Ducks (three on 6 April, 13 on 7 April, 14 on 13 April, 15 on 14 April, four on 21 April, and two on 26 April); Lesser Scaup (12 on 5 April, seven on 6 April, five on 7 April, two on 13 April, three on 14 April, and six on 21 April); Bufflehead (one and four on 6 April and 7 April, respectively); and Ruddy Ducks ( six on 5 April, five on 6 April, five on 7 April, four on 13 April, six on 21 April and three on 26 April).

Herons: Larry Malone reported a Great Egret (25 April) and a Cattle Egret (4 April) in the Deming area. Roland Shook reported a Green Heron from the Gila Bird Area (20 April).

Ibis: Twenty-six White-faced Ibis were reported from the Tyrone sewage ponds (Julian Lee, 17 April) and five, 15 and 6 on 6 April, 13 April, and 21 April, respectively (Ken Dayer). Jackie Blurton reported 15 White-faced Ibis at the Silver City KOA ponds (13 April).

White-faced Ibis by Jackie Blurton, 13 April 2013, Silver City KOA

Cranes: Martha Schumann Cooper reported a late Sandhill Crane at the Lichty Center near Cliff on 27 April.

Plovers: From three to 10 Killdeer were recorded at the Tyrone sewage ponds between 5 – 21 April (Ken Dyer).

Shorebirds: The Tyrone sewage ponds had two Wilson’s Snipes, two Wilson’s Phalaropes, and two Lesser Yellowlegs on 17 April (Julian Lee). There were 31 Wilson’s Phalaropes on 26 April (Ken Dayer). Ken Dayer reported Lesser Yellowlegs at the Tyrone sewage ponds (three on 13 April, one on 14 April and one on 26 April). Ken also reported without details Greater Yellowlegs at the sewage ponds (two on 13 April, one on 14 April and one on 21 April). Between two and 37 Western Sandpipers were reported at the Tyrone sewage ponds (Ken Dayer, 5 to 21 April), while 17 Least Sandpipers were reported on 21 April and 16 on 26 April (Ken Dayer). Ken also reported three Long-billed Dowitchers there on 21 April. A Wilson’s Snipe was seen at the Tyrone sewage ponds (Ken Dayer, 26 April).

Gulls: Julian Lee reported six Franklin’s Gull and one Ring-billed Gull from the Tyrone sewage pond (17 April). Ken Dayer reported that there were two to 25 Franklin’s Gulls at the sewage ponds between 5 April and 26 April. Ken also saw one to seven Ring-billed Gulls between 5 April and 26 April at the sewage ponds. Larry Malone reported a Herring Gull at the Tyrone sewage ponds 19 April.

Roadrunners: Dale Zimmerman reports that he has had a Greater Roadrunner at his house for approximately one month. This effective predator has been dining on House Mice. “If you build a better mousetrap…..”

Greater Roadrunner by Dale Zimmerman, 8 April, 2013, Silver City, NM

Hummingbirds: Larry Malone reported a Calliope Hummingbird (20 April) and a Rufus Hummingbird (28 April).

Woodpeckers: A Three-toed Woodpecker was seen off Meadow Creek Road by Larry Malone (28 April)

Flycatchers: Patricia Taber reported the first Western Kingbirds at her Silver City residence (8 April). She reported that they were displaying mating behavior on 22 April. A Cassin’s Kingbird was reported from the Tyrone sewage ponds (Ken Dayer, 26 April), and another Cassin’s Kingbird was seen in the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook, 12 April) . A Willow Flycatcher was observed in the Gila Bird Area by Roland Shook (12 April).

Vireos: Roland Shook reported three singing Bell’s Vireos from the Gila Bird Area (12 April).

Shrikes: A Loggerhead Shrike was seen at the Tyrone sewage ponds (Ken Dayer, 5 April and 21 April).

Swallows: Ken Dayer reported Tree Swallows at the Tyrone sewage ponds (three on 13 April, one on 14 April, and two on 26 April). Ken also saw Violet-green Swallows at the ponds (three on 13 April, one on 14 April, and one on 21 April). Sixteen Barn Swallows were seen by Ken at the ponds 26 April.

Pipits: Ken Dayer reported two American Pipits at the Tyrone sewage pond 26 April.

Warblers: On 20 April, Ken Dayer saw the following warblers at Little Cherry Creek and Cherry Creek Campground: Townsend’s Warbler (1), Black-throated Gray Warblers (3), Virginia’s Warblers (2), Olive Warbler(1), and numerous Red-faced Warblers. A Painted Redstart was seen in the Gila Bird Area by Roland Shook (5 April).

Sparrows: There was a Lark Sparrow and a Savannah Sparrow reported from the Tyrone sewage ponds 26 April (Ken Dayer). Dale Zimmerman writes the following about his experiences with migrating Lincoln’s Sparrow, “I had a Lincoln’s Sparrow here on 11 April this spring, and on several subsequent days — encouraging as I’ve known of none on our property, spring or fall, during the preceding three years. (Formerly, a regular migrant during both northward and southbound migrations.)

Buntings: Henri Hovarter reported a male Lazuli Bunting at their residence on Highway 905 (22 April).

Orioles: A Bullock’s Oriole was detected in the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook, 26 April)

Finches: Kathy Cassell reported a male Cassin’s Finch at her Indian Hill residence (10 April to 13 April).

Quiz Bird Answer

Lincoln’s Sparrow by Dale Zimmerman, 3 March 2006, Silver City, NM

Dale writes about the initial picture of the quiz bird, “I deliberately selected this pose as it is typical, and shows the dorsal markings well. Many people rely on ventral features in identifying this bird, but often one sees only the upper surface. He adds for the second bird, “Here is a ventral view showing the underparts and the side of the head in different light from the other picture. It’s of course very different in most respects, but in case you wanted to show both aspects of this neat little bird I thought I’d send this one too.

I appreciate all who sent in bird reports and made comments on the Bird Sightings Report. Even thought numbers are important, a list of birds seen in the field also has value. I want to encourage everyone to spend as much time as they can enjoying watching and identifying birds. I will give careful consideration to all reports that I receive, and will try and include as many reports as I can, even if they do not include numbers of a particular species.

I encourage the submission of records and photos. In order to increase the scientific value of your sightings, I encourage you to please include the number, a date and location for each species, as well as, the full name of the observer. Undated sightings, with or without a location or the number observed, are of a lesser value, however, all submissions are welcome. I do not know where many of you live, so a brief description would be much appreciated. Please send your photos and reports to tyrannidae@gmail.com. Thanks to all who submitted this month and in the past.

All photographs displayed in this Bird Sightings Report remain the sole property of the photographer. Expressed written permission from the photographer is necessary to use any of these photographs.

Photo of Common Mergansers at the top of this page was taken by Robert Shantz.

NMOS Field Notes is published quarterly, and provides a seasonal overview of the changing patterns of New Mexico’s birdlife, including unusual records, breeding and wintering range changes, and changes in seasonal occurrence and migration patterns.

All individuals interested in birds in New Mexico are encouraged to submit their observations to NMOS Field Notes. Especially solicited are records of uncommon species, nesting birds, and early, late, or out-of-season/range birds. Records should be submitted in taxonomic order and should include species name, date, exact location, numbers of bird(s), age, sex, and color morph (if applicable), and name and contact information (including e-mail address) of observer(s). Remember, unless field observations are properly documented and submitted for consideration, they have no way of becoming part of the ornithological record. Reporting birds to eBird or to rare bird alerts or on list-serves does not constitute submission to NMOS Field Notes.

Please provide details for unusual records. Details are usually needed for sightings of birds appearing in light-faced type in the NMOS Field Checklist of New Mexico Birds; details are required for all species on the Review List. Written details and other documentation of very rare species will be circulated to the New Mexico Bird Records Committee for evaluation. Written details may be submitted on a New Mexico Rare/Unusual Bird Report Form (available electronically on this website as a PDF or a Word document or from the Editor), although any written format is acceptable. If photographs are submitted (electronically or as slides, prints or video), please include with the photograph the name of the species in question, date the picture was taken, the exact location, and photographer’s name.

The four reporting periods correspond to the four seasons of the year, which are:

Winter (December 1-February 28/29)
Spring (March 1-May 31)
Summer (June 1-July 31)
Autumn (August 1-November 30).

Please submit reports as soon as possible after the close of a reporting period. More information is available on the NMOS web site (http://www.nmbirds.org/). Reports should be sent to Sandy Williams at sunbittern@earthlink.net.

Please send comments to Roland Shook.

Bird Sightings Report, March 1 to March 31, 2012

Written by Roland on May 15, 2012 – 5:42 am -

March is the month of migration and the prelude to the spring breeding season. It is an exciting time for birding.

Species Accounts

Ducks and Geese: The following ducks were seen by Gene Lewis and Ken Dayer at the Tyrone sewage ponds: Cinnamon Teal - two on 4 March, four on 11 March; Northern Shoveler – 99 on 4 March, 202 on 11 March, 250 on 18 March, 318 on 25 March; Canvasback – two on 25 March; Ring-necked Duck – 16 on 4 March, eight on 11 March, 13 on 25 March; Lesser Scaup – five on 4 March, three on 11 March, five on 18 March and 14 on 25 March; Bufflehead – two on 4 March; one on 11 March, one on 25 March; Common Merganser – two on 4 March; and Ruddy Duck - four on 4 March, four on 11 March, six on 18 March, 15 on 25 March. A Canada Goose was heard in the Gila River Bird Area (Roland Shook, 16 March) and two were seen in the Gila River Bird Area (Roland Shook, 23 March). This species is becoming more common in the Cliff/Gila Valley.

Quail: Patricia Taber reported two Scaled Quail at Rockhound State Park (26-28 March).

Hawks: A Sharp-shinned Hawk has been dining on Karen Beckenbach’s Pine Siskins and Mountain Chickadees every two or three days throughout the month. Patricia Taber reported her first of the season Turkey Vultures in the area of WNMU (18 March). Becky Nolan Dees reported 6 Turkey Vultures in the vicinity of San Simon, AZ (23 March) and Larry Malone reported a Turkey Vulture over his Deming yard (26 march). Sandy Williams reported a Common Black-Hawk vocalizing in the Gila River Bird area on 14 March. Allison Boyd reported an American Kestrel on March 23rd along the Twin Sisters Creek, Dragonfly Trail at Ft. Bayard. Roland Shook reported an American Kestrel (13 March) from the Gila Bird Area where they have now become scarce. A pair of American Kestrels was seen in the Gila Bird Area 29 March (Roland Shook). S

Gulls: Sixty one Ring-billed Gulls were seen on Bill Evans Lake (Roland Shook, 23 March).

Pigeons and Doves: Karen Beckenbach reported Band-tailed Pigeons at her Silver City residence (11 March).

Cuckoos: Wendy Shaul reported a Greater Roadrunner near Redrock (11 March). It appears this species is becoming more uncommon in our area.

Owls: Larry Malone reported two Burrowing Owls at their nest burrow near Deming (14 March). A Northern Pygmy-Owl was heard vocalizing in the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook, 13 March, 16 March, 23 March, and 27 March).

Hummingbirds: Steve London reported a Black-chinned Hummingbird near Hanover (31 March). He reported that this was the earliest date he has recorded in the past eight years. Kate Moitoret reported a Black-chinned Hummingbird from Tyrone (27 March). The number at Kate’s house had increased to two males on 31 March. A male Broad-tailed Hummingbird was heard in the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook, 16 March).

Woodpeckers: Gene Lewis and Ken Dayer reported the following woodpeckers at the Tyrone sewage ponds: Lewis’s Woodpecker – one on 4 March, one on 11 March, two on 18 March, two on 25 March; Acorn Woodpecker – one on 4 March, one on 11 March, two on 18 March. Larry Malone reported a Hairy Woodpecker on the Meadow Creek Road in the Pinos Altos Mountains (16 March). He comments that they are now harder to find at this location than in previous times.

Flycatchers: Karen Beckenbach reported her first Ash-throated Flycatcher at her Silver City residence (5 March). Ken Dayer and Gene Lewis reported an Ash-throated Flycatcher at the Tyrone sewage ponds (4 March). Carol Fugagli reported a Vermillion Flycatcher at her residence on the Gila River near Cliff (15 March). Gene Lewis and Ken Dayer reported a Vermillion Flycatcher at the Tyrone sewage ponds (18 March).

Shrikes: Ken Dayer and Gene Lewis reported Loggerhead Shrikes from the Tyrone sewage ponds – three on 4 March, two on 11 March and one on 18 March.

Corvids: Four American Crows were reported on Little Walnut Creek (Karen Beckenbach, 11 March). On going through out the month was a flock of 50-100 Pinyon Jays at Karen Beckenbach Silver City residence.

Swallows: Gene Lewis and Ken Dayer reported an early Tree Swallow from the Tyrone sewage ponds (4 March).

Thrushes: An Eastern Bluebird was reported by Larry Malone at Bear Canyon Lake (16 March). Kate Moitoret reported Western Bluebirds from Tyrone Park (eight on 3 March, 17 on 11 March, and 3 on 18 March).

Thrashers: Becky Nolan Dees reported two Bendire’s Thrashers near San Simon, AZ (23 March).

Waxwings: Gene Lewis reported approximately 25 Cedar Waxwings near his Silver City residence (21 March).

Warblers: The first Lucy’s Warbler was detected in the Gila River Bird Area on 27 March (Roland Shook). Most years Lucy’s Warblers are present around 21 March.

Emberizids: Gene Lewis and Ken Dayer reported the following sparrows from the Tyrone sewage ponds: numerous Brewer’s Sparrows (4-25 March), five Lark Buntings (25 March), three to four Song Sparrows (4-25 March), and one to two Lincoln’s Sparrows (11 and 18 March). Steve London reported a White-crowned Sparrow near Hanover (18 March).

Cardinals and Grosbeaks: Gene Lewis and Ken Dayer reported a Blue Grosbeak at the Tyrone sewage ponds (25 March).

Finches: Throughout the month Karen Beckenbach reported a flock of 70-300 Pine Siskins visiting the feeders at her Silver City residence.

Ebird.org

Deena Gentle suggested that local birders report their sightings on ebird.org. It is an interesting site and is well worth checking out.

I encourage the submission of records and photos. In order to increase the scientific value of your sightings, I encourage you to please include the number, a date and location for each species, as well as, the full name of the observer. Undated sightings, with or without a location or the number observed, are of a lesser value, however, all submissions are welcome. I do not know where many of you live, so a brief description would be much appreciated. Please send your photos and reports to tyrannidae@gmail.com. Thanks to all who submitted this month and in the past.

All photographs displayed in this Bird Sightings Report remain the sole property of the photographer. Expressed written permission from the photographer is necessary to use any of these photographs.

Photo of Common Mergansers at the top of this page was taken by Robert Shantz.

Please send comments to Roland Shook.

Bird Sightings Report, February 1 to February 29, 2012

Written by Roland on February 29, 2012 – 11:59 pm -

Species Accounts

Ducks: Gene Lewis reported the following ducks from the Tyrone sewage ponds: Northern Shoveler – 120 on 26 February and a few on other dates; Ring-necked Ducks – seven on 4 February, four on 12 February, and 11 on 26 February; Lesser Scaup – six on 4 February, three on 12 February, three on 19 February and five on 26 February; and Ruddy Ducks – two present all month. A Canvasback was reported from Bill Evans Lake (Roland Shook, 24 February).

Pelicans: Larry Malone reported eight American White Pelicans from the Lordsburg Waste Water Plant (14 February).

Hawks: Sonnie reported a pair of Red-tailed Hawks courting near her residence two miles north of the Silver City High School (17 February). Walter “Ski” Szymanski photographed a Sharp-shinned Hawk at his feeder (23 February). A Golden Eagle was seen at the Tyrone sewage ponds (Gene Lewis, 2 February).

Sharp-shinned Hawk by Walter “Ski” Szymanski, Silver City, 23 February, 2012

Cranes: Jim Rogers photographed a large flock of Sandhill Cranes at Deming (12 February). Becky Dees reported a large flock of Sandhill Cranes near San Simon, AZ (12 February), while Larry Malone reported 3,000 Sandhill Cranes in Deming (22 February). Roland Shook reported three Sandhill Cranes from the Gila Bird Area (16 February) where they are uncommon.

Sandhill Cranes by Jim Rogers, Deming, 12 February 2012

Shorebirds: A Spotted Sandpiper was reported from the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook, 10 February and 24 February).

Pigeons and Doves: Larry Malone reported a White-winged Dove sitting on a nest at Poncho Villa State Park (25 February).

Woodpeckers: A Red-naped Sapsucker was reported in Indian Hills during the first half of the month (Barbara Smith). One to two Lewis’s Woodpeckers were seen all month at the Tyrone sewage ponds (Gene Lewis). Acorn Woodpeckers were reported from the Tyrone sewage ponds (three on 19 February, and one on 26 February (Gene Lewis).

Shrikes: Gene Lewis reported Loggerhead Shrikes from the Tyrone sewage ponds (two on 4 February, four on 12 February, and one on 26 February).

Jays: A flock of approximately 100 Pinyon Jays was seen feeding at a residence two miles north of the Silver City High School (Sonnie, approximately 10 February). A flock of approximately 67 Pinyon Jays were seen in the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook, 10 February).

Bushtits: Fifteen Bushtits were seen at a feeder in Indian Hills during the first half of February (Barbara Smith).

Nuthatches: A Red-breasted Nuthatch was reported from Clanton Canyon (Larry Malone, 14 February).

Thrushes: Seven Eastern Bluebirds were reported in the Deming Area (Larry Malone, 1 February). A Hermit Thrush was reported from the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook, 3 February). A Townsend Solitaire was heard piping in the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook, 24 February).

Thrashers: Ken Dayer and Gene Lewis reported two Crissal Thrashers at Redrock (19 February). A Bendire’s Thrasher was reported from Larry Malone’s residence in Deming (15 February).

Silky Flycatchers: Three Phainopeplas were reported from Indian Hills during the first half of February (Barbara Smith).

Longspurs: Fifteen McCown’s Longspurs were seen by Larry Malone in the Animas Valley (15 February).

Warblers: An Audubon Warbler was seen in Indian Hills during the first half of February (Barbara Smith).

Emberizids: Two Abert’s Towhees were reported by Gene Lewis and Ken Dayer at Redrock (19 February).

Icterids: Jackie Blurton owner of the KOA Kampground wrote, “In the past we’ve only seen a few Red-winged Blackbirds at the KOA migrating through. This year we’ve had a flock from 50 to 100 at the KOA since mid-January. They’re feasting at my goose feeder. It’s seems like they came early.”

Red-winged Blackbirds by Jackie Blurton, Silver City, 20 February 2012

I encourage the submission of records and photos. In order to increase the scientific value of your sightings, I encourage you to please include the number, a date and location for each species, as well as, the full name of the observer. Undated sightings, with or without a location or the number observed, are of a lesser value, however, all submissions are welcome. I do not know where many of you live, so a brief description would be much appreciated. Please send your photos and reports to tyrannidae@gmail.com. Thanks to all who submitted this month and in the past.

All photographs displayed in this Bird Sightings Report remain the sole property of the photographer. Expressed written permission from the photographer is necessary to use any of these photographs.

Photo of Common Mergansers at the top of this page was taken by Robert Shantz.

Please send comments to Roland Shook.

Bird Sightings Report, January 1 to January 31, 2012

Written by Roland on January 31, 2012 – 11:59 pm -

Conclusions drawn from my experience in the Gila River Bird Area and from conversations with local birders, are that numbers of birds are down this January. This could well be a result of the profound drought last summer. Owing to lack of rain, annual vegetation in the Gila Bird Area, a product of last season’s moisture, is scarce in many places, therefore food supplies for many wintering species are essentially nonexistent. Hopefully, late winter and spring will bring fourth abundant precipitation.

Species Accounts

Ducks: Gene Lewis reported seeing four Lesser Scaup, 10 Northern Shovelers and three Mallards at the Tyrone sewage ponds (17 January). On 22 January, Gene Lewis reported the following ducks at the Tyrone sewage ponds: 45 Northern Shovelers, nine Ring-necked Ducks, five Lesser Scaup, and two Ruddy Ducks. Eleanor Wooten reported a pair of Common Goldeneyes seen from the Highway 211 Bridge near Gila (11 January). A male Canvasback was reported from Bill Evans Lake (Roland Shook, 27 January). Five female Buffleheads was seen in the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook, 13 January).

Turkeys: A single Wild Turkey was reported from Karen Beckenbach’s Silver City residence visiting daily for a week (7 January). Karen also reported five Montezuma Quail at her residence (7 January).

Hawks: A Red-tailed Hawk was photographed in Hidalgo County by Robert Shantz (15 January). Two Northern Harriers were photographed near Animas (Robert Shantz, 29 January). Mike Sauber reported a Goshawk near Grandview in the Indian Hills area (10 January). This was just after he saw a Red-tailed Hawk from the same location. An adult Bald Eagle was seen at Bill Evans Lake (Roland Shook, 6 January) and Katie Belt reported an adult Bald Eagle near Boston Hill in Silver City (27 January).

Red-tailed Hawk by Robert Shantz, Hidalgo County, 15 January 2012

Male Northern Harrier by Robert Shantz, near Animas, 29 January 2012

Shorebirds: A Wilson’s Snipe was seen in the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook, 6 January).

Owls: A Western Screech Owl has been enjoying a roosting box at Karen Beckenbach’s Silver City residence (25 January).

Hummingbirds: Karen Beckenbach reported a male Magnificent Hummingbird at her Silver City residence (5 January).

Woodpeckers: Reports of Lewis’s Woodpeckers were received from Gene Lewis from the Tyrone sewage ponds (one on 17 January and two on 22 January). Karen Beckenbach reported a Lewis’s Woodpecker at the Tyrone sewage ponds (7 January). Karen Beckenbach reports a male Yellow-shafted Flicker (a subspecies of the Northern Flicker) coming to her yard (4 January to 18 January). A daily female and occasional male Hairy Woodpecker have been seen by Karen Beckenbach at her Silver City residence throughout the month of January.

Shrikes: A Loggerhead Shrike was observed at the Tyrone sewage ponds (Gene Lewis, 22 January). Another Loggerhead Shrike was photographed by Robert Shantz in Hidalgo County (15 January).

Loggerhead Shrike by Robert Shantz, Hidalgo County, 15 January 2012

Jays: A flock of approximately 150 Pinyon Jays have been seen near Karen Beckenbach’s Silver City residence (19 January). Another flock of approximately 50 Pinyon Jays were seen in the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook, 13 January and 20 January).

Wrens: A Rock Wren was seen and photographed by Robert Shantz along NM State Road 92 in Hidalgo County (15 January).

Rock Wren by Robert Shantz, Hidalgo County, 15 January 2012

Thrushes: A report by Eleanor Wooten mentions seeing a mixed flock of approximately 10 Mountain and Western Bluebirds near the Highway 211 Bridge over the Gila River (15 January). Eleanor also reported a flock of Mountain Bluebirds and two male Eastern Bluebirds near Bill Evans Lake (16 January). A Townsend’s Solitaire was vocalizing in the Gila Bird Area (27 January).

Phainopeplas: A Phainopepla was heard in the Gila Bird Area (27 January).

Warblers: Gene Lewis reported a pair of Yellow-rumped Warblers visiting his Silver City residence’s suet block through out the month of January.

Sparrows: Reports from the Tyrone sewage ponds include one Savannah and one Brewer’s Sparrow (Gene Lewis, 22 January).

Brewer’s Sparrows by Robert Shantz, Wilcox, AZ, 31 January 2012

Finches: Eleanor Wooten reported at least eight Pine Siskins visiting her feeder in the Cliff-Gila Valley during parts of January.

I encourage the submission of records and photos. In order to increase the scientific value of your sightings, I encourage you to please include the number, a date and location for each species, as well as, the full name of the observer. Undated sightings, with or without a location or the number observed, are of a lesser value, however, all submissions are welcome. I do not know where many of you live, so a brief description would be much appreciated. Please send your photos and reports to tyrannidae@gmail.com. Thanks to all who submitted this month and in the past.

All photographs displayed in this Bird Sightings Report remain the sole property of the photographer. Expressed written permission from the photographer is necessary to use any of these photographs.

Photo of Common Mergansers at the top of this page was taken by Robert Shantz.

Please send comments to Roland Shook.

Bird Sightings Report, December 1 to December 31, 2011

Written by Roland on December 31, 2011 – 11:59 pm -

December is a month of cooler temperatures and the “settling in” of winter visitors. This year seems colder than previous years. Because of the drought, food in the wild seems scarce which means winter feeding stations can be a big magnet for birds.

Species Accounts

Ducks: Gene Lewis reported the following species of ducks at the Tyrone sewage ponds on 4 December: Northern Shovelers, Ring-necked Ducks, American Wigeons, a Ruddy Duck, Mallards, and Buffleheads. Four Buffleheads were seen in the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook, 28 December).

Hawks: A immature Northern Goshawk was reported by Karen Beckenbach at her Silver City residence (14 December). A Merlin was reported from the Tyrone sewage ponds (Jim Brown, 15 December) and one from the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook, 24 December). A Ferruginous Hawks were seen by Jim Rogers (east of Silver City, 2 December , at Virden (Robert Shantz, 17 December), and at the Tyrone sewage ponds (Gene Lewis, 17 December). Karyn Neil reported a Bald Eagle flying high over Arenas Valley (26 December) and one was seen flying down the Gila River in the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook, 28 December).

Ferruginous Hawk by Jim Rogers, southwestern NM, 2 December 2011

Gulls: A Ring-billed Gull was reported at the Tyrone sewage ponds by Gene Lewis (4 December).

Pigeons and Doves: Jim Brown reported a dozen Eurasian-collared Doves at the Tyrone sewage pond (15 December).

Hummingbirds: Karyn Neil reported a male Broad-tailed Hummingbird visiting their hummingbird feeders in Indian Hills (26 December).

Woodpeckers: Gene Lewis reported the following woodpeckers from the Tyrone sewage ponds on 4 December: three Lewis’s Woodpeckers, three Acorn Woodpeckers and three Red-naped Sapsuckers. Also a report of a Lewis’s Woodpecker on 17 December (Gene Lewis, Tyrone sewage ponds).

Flycatchers: A Say’s Phoebe was seen and photographed by Robert Shantz on SR 92 in Hidalgo County (27 December) and two were seen in the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook, 28 December).

Say’s Phoebe by Robert Shantz, Virden, NM, 27 December 2011

Shrikes: Four Loggerhead Shrikes were seen at the City of Rocks State Park by Patricia Taber (25 December).

Jays: Elaine Halbedel reported a flock of at least 102 Pinyon Jays near Bear Mountain Lodge (4 December).

Thrushes: Robert Shantz reported Eastern Bluebirds from Verdin (17 December) and one was seen in the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook, 26 December). Robert Shantz also reported a Mountain Bluebird at Virden (27 December). A Hermit Thrush was reported from the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook, 24 December).

Eastern Bluebird by Robert Shantz, Verdin, NM, 17 December 2011

Mountain Bluebird by Robert Shantz, Virden, NM, 27 December 2011

Waxwings: Patricia Taber reported eight Cedar Waxwings at her Silver City residence (25 December).

Sparrows: Nineteen Brewer’s Sparrows were seen by Gene Lewis at the Tyrone sewage ponds on 4 December. Bob Barnes of Hillsboro reported a Harris’s Sparrow that has been present for the past four winters. To read about the sparrow on Bob’s blog go to http://swbirding.blogspot.com. Gene Lewis saw a White-throated Sparrow at his Silver City residence (24 and 25 December). Numerous Brewer’s Sparrows were seen by Patricia Taber at the City of Rocks State Park (25 December). A Green-tailed Towhee was reported from the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook, 28 December).

Harris’s Sparrow by Bob Barnes, Hillsboro, NM 2007

Finches: Karen Beckenbach reported two female Cassin’s Finches at her Silver City residence (12 December). Three Lawrence’s Goldfinches were reported by Tom and Susan Lynch south of Silver City (fide Gene Lewis, 17 December).

Gila Bird Area – 10 December – Observations by Roland Shook

Five Duck sp., one Gadwall, 12 American Wigeons, 14 Mallards, one Spotted Sandpiper, three Belted Kingfishers, one Red-naped Sapsucker, one Ladder-backed Woodpecker, four Northern Flickers, one Black Phoebe, three Chihuanhuan Ravens, two Bridled Titmice, one White-breasted Nuthatch, seven Ruby-crowned Kinglets, one Western Bluebird, one Hermit Thrush, four Spotted Towhees, 13 Chipping Sparrows, three Song Sparrows, one Lincoln’s Sparrow, one White-crowned Sparrow, an two American Goldfinches.

Bill Evans Lake – 10 December – Observations by Roland Shook

Two Gadwalls, two Common Mergansers, one Ruddy Duck, 11 Pied-billed Grebes, one Great Blue Heron, one Northern Harrier, 72 American Coots.

Gila Bird Area – 16 December – Observations by Roland Shook

Nine duck sp., 11 American Wigeons, eight Mallards, two Spotted Sandpipers, two Morning Doves, one Hairy Woodpecker, two Northern Flickers, four Chihuanhuan Ravens, one White-breasted Nuthatch, five Ruby-crowned Kinglets, three Western Bluebirds, two American Robins, five Yellow-rumped Warblers, one Green-tailed Towhee, six Spotted Towhees, one Canyon Towhee, six Chipping Sparrows, two Song Sparrows, one White-crowned Sparrow, 21 Dark-eyed Juncos, and three Northern Cardinals.

Bill Evans Lake – 16 December – Observations by Roland Shook

One Ring-necked Duck, five Common Mergansers, 10 Pied-billed Grebes, one Western Grebe, one Great Blue Heron, one immature Bald Eagle, and 62 American Coots.

I encourage the submission of records and photos. In order to increase the scientific value of your sightings, I encourage you to please include the number, a date and location for each species, as well as, the full name of the observer. Undated sightings, with or without a location or the number observed, are of a lesser value, however, all submissions are welcome. I do not know where many of you live, so a brief description would be much appreciated. Please send your photos and reports to tyrannidae@gmail.com. Thanks to all who submitted this month and in the past.

All photographs displayed in this Bird Sightings Report remain the sole property of the photographer. Expressed written permission from the photographer is necessary to use any of these photographs.

Photo of Common Mergansers at the top of this page was taken by Robert Shantz.

Please send comments to Roland Shook.

Bird Sightings Report, November 1 to November 30, 2011

Written by Roland on November 15, 2011 – 9:26 am -

The format that has been used in the past may change as we try to make this site more user useful. Suggestions are welcome.

Species Accounts

1 November – Patricia Taber reported a Townsend’s Solitaire at her Silver City residence.

3 November – Kate Moitoret reported a Rufous Hummingbird at her feeder in Tyrone.

5 November – Cathryn Moitoret reported a Phainopepla at her Tyrone bird bath.

10 November – Robert Shantz reported a Great Horned Owl from Upper Box Canyon, Hidalgo County County.

Great Horned Owl by Robert Shantz, Upper Box Canyon, Hidalgo Co., 10 November, 2011

12 November – Cathryn Moitoret reported Lesser Goldfinches at her Tyrone feeder up to this date.

17 November – Jim Rodgers took these pictures near Deming. Can you identify this bird? The answer will be posted in the next few days. Identification of this species has turned out to be a challenging problem!

Photo by Jim Rodger, 17 November, near Deming, NM

Photo by Jim Rogers, 17 November, near Deming, NM

20 November – White-throated Sparrow was seen by Gene Lewis and Ken Dayer at the Tyrone sewage ponds. Two American Pipits and a Lewis’s Woodpecker were also seen at the same location. Robert Shantz also reported a Lewis’s Woodpecker from Thompson Canyon in the Burro Mountains (20 Nov). Cathryn Moitoret reported Red-naped Sapsuckers in the Tyrone Park (one on 13 November and two on 20 November)

Lewis’s Woodpecker by Robert Shantz, Thompson Canyon in Big Burro Mts, 20 November, 2011

21 November – Peggy Spofford reported a male Northern Harrier near her residence in Silver Acres. Jim Rogers reported a Harris’s Hawk near Deming.

Harris’s Hawk by Jim Rogers, Deming, 21 November, 2011

24 November - Ken Dayer reported 3-4 Williamson’s Sapsuckers at Sapillo Creek and another at the Arristra site above Pinos Altos.

24 November – Karen Beckenbach reported a Western Screech Owl roosting in a an owl box at her Silver City residence.

Western Screech Owl by Karen Beckenbach, Silver City, 24 November, 2011

25 November – Karen Beckenbach reported a male Magnificent Hummingbird at her Silver City residence.

26 November – A Bridled Titmouse was reported by Karen Beckenbach at her Silver City residence. Karen reports that she has a pair of Red-breasted Nuthatches which visit her feeders almost daily. Cathryn Moitoret has been seeing several Killdeer near the Tyrone Post Office throughout the month.

27 November Gene Lewis reported a Lewis’s Woodpecker at the Tyrone sewage ponds along with two American Pipits. Also present were three Acorn Woodpeckers which have been present for the past few Sundays. Gene also reports seven duck species are present at the Tyrone sewage ponds.

Bill Evans Lake – 23 November – Observations by Roland Shook

Three Pied-billed Grebes, 10 Western Grebes, and 38 American Coots

Gila Bird Area – 23 November – Observations by Roland Shook

Four Mallards, one American Coot, four Spotted Sandpipers, two Belted Kingfishers, one Red-naped Sapsucker, six Northern Flickers, two Black Phoebes, one Mexican Jay, three Chihuahuan Ravens, two Bridled Titmice, three White-breasted Nuthatches, one Canyon Wren, one Bewick’s Wren, 13 Ruby-crowned Kinglets, three Western Bluebirds, one Hermit Thrush, one American Robin, four Yellow-rumped Warblers, 10 Spotted Towhees, one Rufous-crowned Sparrow, one Canyon Towhee, two White-crowned Sparrows, 23 Dark-eyed Juncos, three Northern Cardinals, 19 Meadowlark sp., and one House Finch.

Bill Evans Lake – 29 November – Observations by Roland Shook

Ten Pied-billed Grebes, nine Western Grebes, two Ring-billed Gulls, and 41 American Coots

Gila Bird Area – 29 November – Observations by Roland Shook

Two Mallards, one Spotted Sandpiper, one Belted Kingfisher, two Ladder-backed Woodpeckers, two Hairy Woodpeckers, seven Northern Flickers, five Mexican Jays, one Raven sp., one White-breasted Nuthatch, three Bewick’s Wrens, 10 Ruby-crowned Kinglets, 43 Western Bluebirds, two Phainopeplas, one Yellow-rumped Warbler, seven Spotted Towhees, four Song Sparrows, seven White-crowned Sparrows, five Dark-eyed Juncos, one Northern Cardinal, and six House Finches.

Field Trips

Southwestern New Mexico Audubon’s Field Trip to Lake Roberts

12 November, Leader Brian Dolton

Species List

Gadwall

American Wigeon (c.40)

Mallard (Common)

Northern Shoveler

Green-winged Teal (c.6)

Canvasback (c.20)

Ring-necked Duck (4)

Bufflehad (3)

Hooded Merganser (c.12)

Common Merganser

Ruddy Duck

Pied-billed Grebe

Eared Grebe (1)

Western Grebe (c.50)

Great Blue Heron (c.6)

American Coot

Wilson’s Snipe (4)

Belted Kingfisher (1)

Northern Flicker

American Crow

Common Raven

Juniper Titmouse

Marsh Wren (1)

American Robin

Yellow-rumped Warbler (Audubon’s)

Song Sparrow

Lincoln’s Sparrow

Dark-eyed Junco (Pink-sided)

Red-winged Blackbird

The Western Grebe were mostly in a loose raft at the dam end of the reservoir; it’s possible there were some Clark’s grebes amongst them but none we could confirm, and the few closer birds were all definitely Western.

I encourage the submission of records and photos. In order to increase the scientific value of your sightings, I encourage you to please include the number, a date and location for each species, as well as, the full name of the observer. Undated sightings, with or without a location or the number observed, are of a lesser value, however, all submissions are welcome. I do not know where many of you live, so a brief description would be much appreciated. Please send your photos and reports to tyrannidae@gmail.com. Thanks to all who submitted this month and in the past.

All photographs displayed in this Bird Sightings Report remain the sole property of the photographer. Expressed written permission from the photographer is necessary to use any of these photographs.

Photo of Common Mergansers at the top of this page was taken by Robert Shantz.

Please send comments to Roland Shook.

Bird Sightings Report, October 1 to October 31, 2011

Written by Roland on October 31, 2011 – 11:59 am -

As the below sightings will attest to, fall migration is in full swing during the month of October. Many winter visitors have arrived and there are now very few summer residents. Many of our winter residents have either migrated from northern climes or descended from higher elevations. It is an exciting time of year since the opportunity exists to discover rarities. Owing to scare feed in many locations because of the record drought, people maintaining winter feeding stations have experienced an influx of birds. In the winter open water can also be an important attractant for birds.

Species Accounts

Ducks: Eleanor Wootten reported 78 Northern Shovelers in a small pond at the Animas exit off Interstate 10 (12 October). Five Buffleheads were seen on Bill Evans Lake (Roland Shook, 28 October).

Grebes: A Clark’s Grebe was reported at the Lordsburg sewage ponds (Brian Dolton, 26 October). Nine Western Grebes were seen on Bill Evans Lake (Roland Shook, 21 October). Three Eared Grebes were reported from Bill Evans Lake (Roland Shook, 21 October and three on 28 October).

Pelicans: Kim Muller reported a Brown Pelican on Bill Evans Lake (12 October). The pelican was still there on 13 October, and observed by Kim Muller and Roland Shook. Brown Pelican sightings are very uncommon in our area.

Brown Pelican by Roland Shook, Bill Evans Lake, 13 October 2011

Hawks: Common Black-Hawks were reported from the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook, three on 11 October, one on 13 October).

Rails: A Virginia Rail and a Sora were reported from Mangas Springs by Patricia Taber and Teri Matelson (31 October).

Shorebirds: Eleanor Wootten reported 51 Long-billed Curlews at the Animas exit off Interstate 10 in a pond that is almost always present (12 October). Brian Dolton reported a Pectoral Sandpiper at the Tyrone sewage ponds (26 October). Gene Lewis reported two Wilson’s Phalaropes at the Tyrone sewage ponds (16 October). Spotted Sandpipers were reported from the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook, three on 11 October, and two on 21 October)

Owls: A Western Screech Owl was reported vocalizing in the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook, 21 October).

Nighthawks: A Common Poorwill was seen on the Bill Evans Lake Road (Roland Shook 13 October).

Hummingbirds: A couple of October juvenile Broad-tailed Hummingbirds were reported feeding at a hummingbird feeder in Indian Hills (Barbara A. Smith). Paul Boucher reported a Black-chinned Hummingbird and immature Rufous Hummingbird from his Indian Hills’ residency (11 October). Kate Moitoret reported a Rufous Hummingbird at her Tyrone feeder throughout the month of October.

Woodpeckers: Northern Flicker migration has begun. Six Northern Flickers were reported from the Silver City Golf Course by Barbara A. Smith (23 October). A Lewis’ Woodpecker was reported from the Silver City Golf Course by Paul Boucher (11 and 12 October). Gene Lewis reported several Lewis’ Woodpeckers from the Tyrone sewage ponds: five on 2 October, two on 16 October, and one on 20 October. An Acorn Woodpecker was observed at Kate Moitoret’s residence in Tyrone (24 and 29 October), while Gene Lewis reported two Acorn Woodpeckers from the Tyrone sewage ponds (16 October). Three Red-napped Sapsuckers were seen in the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook, 13 October and one on 28 October).

Flycatchers: Gene Lewis reported a number of Cassin’s Kingbirds at the Tyrone sewage ponds: 31 on 2 October, and seven on 16 October.

Thrushes: Pat Taber reported eight Western Bluebirds from her Silver City residence near the WNMU campus. A Townsend’s Solitaire was seen in the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook, 21 October).

Thrashers: Gene Lewis and Ken Dayer reported two Sage Thrashers along Highway 35 “in that open area” on their way to Lake Roberts (15 October).

Waxwings: Barbara A. Smith reported approximately 12 Cedar Waxwings eating Pyracantha berries near WNMU (19 October).

Phainopeplas: Phainopeplas were reported visiting a bird bath in Tyrone several times in October (Kate Moitoret). A Phainopepla was reported at the Tyrone sewage ponds (Gene Lewis, 2 October).

Warblers: A Northern Waterthrush was seen at the Tyrone sewage ponds (Gene Lewis, 20 October). A Common Yellowthroat was reported from the Tyrone sewage ponds (Gene Lewis, 16 October).

Emberizids: Gene Lewis reported a Lark Bunting from the Tyrone sewage ponds (16 October).

Blackbirds: Four Yellow-headed Blackbirds were seen at the Tyrone sewage ponds (Gene Lewis, 16 October).

Goldfinches: Kate Moitoret reported Lesser Goldfinches at her Tyrone residence throughout October.

I encourage the submission of records and photos. In order to increase the scientific value of your sightings, I encourage you to please include the number, a date and location for each species, as well as, the full name of the observer. Undated sightings, with or without a location or the number observed, are of a lesser value, however, all submissions are welcome. I do not know where many of you live, so a brief description would be much appreciated. Please send your photos and reports to tyrannidae@gmail.com. Thanks to all who submitted this month and in the past.

All photographs displayed in this Bird Sightings Report remain the sole property of the photographer. Expressed written permission from the photographer is necessary to use any of these photographs.

Photo of Common Mergansers at the top of this page was taken by Robert Shantz.

Please send comments to Roland Shook.

Bird Sightings Report, September 1 to September 30, 2011

Written by Roland on September 30, 2011 – 11:59 pm -

This September, like the previous one, was a slow month for bird sightings. Warbler migration appeared to be very low. I saw very few warblers moving through the Gila Bird Area. The exception appeared to be a report of numerous Wilson’s Warblers seen at Lake Roberts by Elaine Halbedel. Owing to one of the worst droughts in southern New Mexico, I would predict that winter bird populations in the “wild” will be low. This could mean that individuals with winter feeding stations will see a plethora of birds as they seek food in short supply. Good birding.

Species Acc0unts

Ducks: Gene Lewis reported the following ducks at the Tyrone sewage ponds: 33 Cinnamon Teal (25 September) and 17 Green-winged Teal (18 September).

Grebes: Several Pied-billed Grebes were seen at Lake Roberts by Elaine Halbedel (23 September). Elaine mentioned that there were, “juveniles in all stages of development, from being carried on the adults’ backs to begging near-adults.” Four Eared Grebes were reported from Bill Evans Lake (Roland Shook, 20 September).

Cormorants: Seven Double-crested Cormorants were seen at Lake Roberts (Elaine Halbedel, 23 September).

Hawks: A Zone-tailed Hawk was seen at Little Walnut Campground (Rick Greenspun, 17 September). Rick Greenspun also reported a Mississippi Kite from Bill Evans Lake Road (13 September). Larry Malone reported a Cooper’s Hawk at his Deming residence (5 September) and a Zone-tailed Hawk over his yard (11 September). A Zone-tailed Hawk was calling near Bill Evans Lake Road (Roland Shook, 5 September). A Swainson’s Hawk was seen in the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook, 5 September). Two immature Common Black-Hawks were reported from the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook, 5 September). A kettle of approximately 50 Turkey Vultures were reported by Roland Shook from the Gila Bird Area (10 September).

Zone-tailed Hawk by Rick Greenspun, Little Walnut Campground, 4 September 2011

Rails: A Virginia Rail was reported from the Tyrone sewage ponds (Gene Lewis, 11 September).

Shorebirds: The following shorebirds were reported by Gene Lewis from the Tyrone sewage ponds: one American Avocet (4 September); one Solitary Sandpiper (25 September); one Lesser Yellowlegs (4 September); Western Sandpipers (44 on 4 September, 22 on 11 September, four on 18 September, and seven on 25 September); one Baird’s Sandpiper (18 September); one Wilson’s Snipe (25 September); and Wilson’s Phalaropes (67 on 4 September, 25 on 11 September, 13 on 18 September, and 4 on 25 September). Larry Malone reported a Solitary Sandpiper at the Tyrone sewage ponds (2 September). Two Red-necked Phalaropes were reported from the Deming Treatment Plant (Larry Malone, 20 September). Two Spotted Sandpipers were reported from the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook 20 September).

Owls: Rick Greenspun reported a Spotted Owl from Spirit Canyon Lodge (5 September).

Goatsuckers: Nine Common Poorwills were seen on the Bill Evans Lake Road before dawn (Roland Shook, 30 September).

Woodpeckers: Karen Blisard reported a Lewis’ Woodpecker on Sanctuary Road near Pinos Altos (23 September). Gene Lewis reported two Lewis’ Woodpeckers at the Tyrone sewage ponds (25 September). Larry Malone reported a Gila Woodpecker near the Iron Bridge in the middle Gila Valley (2 September).

Flycatchers: Larry Malone reported an Olive-sided Flycatcher at Spring Canyon State Park near Deming (20 September). Roland Shook reported a Gray Flycatcher from the Gila Bird Area (10 September). A migrating Empidonax flycatcher was seen in the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook, 10 September).

Vireos: a Bell’s Vireo and a Cassin’s Vireo were reported from Spring Canyon State Park (Larry Malone, 20 September).

Corvids: Pat Taber reported eight American Crows on Little Walnut Road (14 September).

Kinglets: One of the season’s first reported Ruby-crowned Kinglet was seen by Larry Malone in his Deming yard (29 September).

Warblers: Elaine Halbedel reported a female American Redstart at Lake Roberts (23 September) along with approximately 100 Wilson Warblers, and a Yellow Warbler. Donna Stevens reported a September Painted Redstart near White Signal (no specific date). A MacGillivray’s Warbler was seen in the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook, 10 September).

Sparrows: Elaine Halbedel reported at least two Lincoln’s Sparrows at Lake Roberts (23 September). Becky Noland-Dees reported her first of the fall White-crowned Sparrow at San Simon, AZ (23 September). Gene Lewis reported two Clay-colored Sparrows from the Tyrone sewage ponds (11 September). Larry Malone reported a Cassin’s Sparrow at the Deming Treatment Plant (12 September) and a Clay-colored Sparrow at Deming (12 September). Steve London reported a Lark Sparrow (26 September) and a Lincoln Sparrow (22 September) near San Lorenzo. Seven Lark Sparrows were reported from the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook, 10 September).

Blackbirds: Yellow-headed Blackbirds were seen at the Tyrone sewage ponds (Gene Lewis, 28 on 4 September, 22 on 11 September and 12 on 25 September).

Limited Edition of Dale Zimmerman Prints available

The New Mexico Ornithological Society is selling limited edition Dale Zimmerman prints of 10 species of New Mexico birds. If you are interested in purchasing one or more of these prints please go to the New Mexico Ornithological Society web site. Monies derived from these prints will be used by the Society to promote New Mexico ornithology.

I encourage the submission of records and photos. In order to increase the scientific value of your sightings, I encourage you to please include the number, a date and location for each species, as well as, the full name of the observer. Undated sightings, with or without a location or the number observed, are of a lesser value, however, all submissions are welcome. I do not know where many of you live, so a brief description would be much appreciated. Please send your photos and reports to tyrannidae@gmail.com. Thanks to all who submitted this month and in the past.

All photographs displayed in this Bird Sightings Report remain the sole property of the photographer. Expressed written permission from the photographer is necessary to use any of these photographs.

Photo of Common Mergansers at the top of this page was taken by Robert Shantz.

Please send comments to Roland Shook.

Bird Sightings Report, August 1 to August 31, 2011

Written by Roland on August 31, 2011 – 11:59 pm -

I appreciate all the sightings and photos that were submitted this month. I want to encourage all to send in sightings and photos of those species that you feel are rare, uncommon, breeding, early arrivals, late arrivals i.e. those that are unusual in your opinion. The records with number, date(s), observer(s) and location are the most valuable. Try to include both your first and last name so I can correctly credit the observer.

Good Birding.

Quiz Birds

Sandpipers by Rick Greenspun, Tyrone sewage ponds, 9 August 2011

Species Acc0unts

Ducks: Gene Lewis reported the following ducks from the Tyrone sewage ponds: Cinnamon Teal (eight on 21 August); and Northern Shovelers (seven on 21 August and 28 on 28 August). Thirteen female/immature Common Mergansers (possibly a family group) were seen in the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook, 5 August), and 15 (perhaps the same group) were observed on 19 August.

Ibis: Gene Lewis reported a White-faced Ibis from the Tyrone sewage pond (21 August).

Hawks: An Osprey was reported from the Tyrone sewage ponds (Gene Lewis, 28 August). A kettle of 90 Turkey Vultures was reported from the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook, 27 August).

Cranes: Carol Fugagli reported hearing the season’s first Sandhill Cranes along the Gila River north of Cliff (24 August).

Shorebirds: Rick Greenspun, visiting from Florida, reported the following sandpipers from the Tyrone sewage ponds, seen 9 August: 15 Wilson’s Phalaropes, a Pectoral Sandpiper, and two Least Sandpipers. The following species were reported by Gene Lewis from the Tyrone sewage ponds: a Semi-palmated Plover (21 August); a Solitary Sandpiper (14 August); a Semi-palmated Sandpiper (14 August); Western Sandpipers (five on 14 August, four on 21 August and 19 on 28 August); and Wilson’s Phalaropes (22 on 14 August, 55 on 21 August and 52 on 28 August).

Cuckoos: Yellow-billed Cuckoos were heard in the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook, four on 2 August; four on 5 August; one on 12 August; and one on 19 August).

Owls: A Western Screech Owl was heard in the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook, 5 August). Rick Greenspun reported a Spotted Owl at Spirit Canyon Lodge (22 August).

Spotted Owl by Rick Greenspun, Spirit Canyon Lodge, 22 August 2011

Goatsuckers: A Common Poorwill was heard calling in the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook, 12 August).

Hummingbirds: Becky Noland-Dees reported a Broad-billed Hummingbird from San Simon, AZ (17 August).

Kingfishers: Roland Shook reported a Belted Kingfisher in the Gila Bird Area (12 August).

Flycatchers: Larry Malone reported an Olive-sided Flycatcher at Lake Roberts (15 August) and a Greater Pewee along Sapillo Creek (15 August).

Corvids: An American Crow was reported from the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook, 12 August). Once common in the middle Gila Valley, this species is now uncommon but perhaps increasing in numbers.

Nuthatches: A Red-breasted Nuthatch was reported from Signal Peak (Larry Malone, 15 August).

Mimics: A Crissal Thrasher was heard in the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook, 27 August).

Phainopeplas: A female Phainopepla was reported from the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook, 2 August).

Emberizids: A Lark Bunting was reported from the Tyrone sewage ponds (Gene Lewis, 21 August). Larry Malone reported five Lark Buntings from the east side of the Florida Mountains near Deming (31 August). Lark Sparrows were seen in the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook, one on 2 August, four on 5 August, six on 27 August). A Rufous-crowned Sparrow was observed in the Gila Bird Area carrying food (Roland Shook, 19 August).

Buntings: A Painted Bunting was found dead at Larry Malone’s Deming residence (4 August).

Icterids: Gene Lewis reported Yellow-headed Blackbirds at the Tyrone sewage ponds (21 on 21 August and 22 on 28 August). Gene Lewis also reported juvenile Bronzed Cowbirds still visiting his Silver City residence (one on 6 August and two on 7 August). Two Hooded Orioles (probably migrants) were detected in the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook, 12 August), and two additional ones on 19 August (Roland Shook, Gila Bird Area).

Quiz Birds

The following comments are attributed to Dale Zimmerman, “The larger bird appears to be a Pectoral Sandpiper. The two nearer individuals look like Leasts. It’s hard to be certain of leg/foot color, but it seems yellowish, at least on the one bird. Lighting is not good.” There are times, such as this, when bird identification can be difficult and challenging.

Limited Edition of Dale Zimmerman Prints available

I encourage the submission of records and photos. In order to increase the scientific value of your sightings, I encourage you to please include the number, a date and location for each species, as well as, the full name of the observer. Undated sightings, with or without a location or the number observed, are of a lesser value, however, all submissions are welcome. I do not know where many of you live, so a brief description would be much appreciated. Please send your photos and reports to tyrannidae@gmail.com. Thanks to all who submitted this month and in the past.

All photographs displayed in this Bird Sightings Report remain the sole property of the photographer. Expressed written permission from the photographer is necessary to use any of these photographs.

Photo of Common Mergansers at the top of this page was taken by Robert Shantz.

Please send comments to Roland Shook.

Bird Sightings Report, July 1 to July 31, 2011

Written by Roland on July 31, 2011 – 11:59 pm -

July marks the end of the breeding season for most species. As the month progressed, the number of species singing greatly diminished. Many species have already begun fall migration as the “Species Accounts” will attest to. Rufous Hummingbirds, several shorebirds, and other have begun moving south. Some local species have begun dispersing, and can on occasion, be found in uncharacteristic habitats. Other species have begun forming winter flocks.

It was with great sadness when I learned about the recent death of Dr. Bruce Hayward. Bruce was on the committee that hired me in 1992, a year before he retired with a long and successful career in the Department of Natural Sciences at Western New Mexico University. Although a mammologist by training, Bruce was actively involved in many aspects of New Mexico bird life. He was a past President of the New Mexico Ornithological Society and an active participant and organizer in several local bird counts such as the Raptor Count, the Christmas Bird Counts and the Gila River Spring Count. He was often in attendance at the Southwestern Audubon meetings. I was honored to call him a friend. He will be missed.

Species Acc0unts

Geese: Seven Canada Geese were reported from the Gila Bird Area (Roland Shook 4 July).

Ducks: The following ducks were reported from the Lordsburg sewage treatment plant by Eleanor Wootten: five Ruddy Ducks, 54 Mallards, and a Cinnamon Teal (26 July).

Herons: Two Black-crowned Night Herons were reported by Eleanor Wootten from the Lordsburg sewage treatment plant (26 July).

Hawks: Elaine Halbedel reported a Common Black-Hawk flying over her Cottage San Road residence during July. Robert Shantz reported a Mississippi Kite at Duncan, AZ on 28 July (just across the Arizona border from Virden, NM).

Mississippi Kite by Robert Shantz, Duncan, AZ, 28 July 2011

Shorebirds: Gene Lewis reported the following shorebirds from the Tyrone sewage ponds: a Spotted Sandpiper (24 and 31 July); a Baird’s Sandpiper (17 July); and Wilson’s Phalarope (one on 21 July and two on 31 July). Eleanor Wooten reported the following shorebirds from the Lordsburg sewage treatment plant: 12 Black-necked Stilts, four American Avocets, seven Western Sandpipers, a Long-billed Dowitcher, and 36 Wilson’s Phalaropes (26 July). Eleanor also saw six Least Sandpipers at the Tyrone sewage pond (26 July).

Pigeons and Doves: Karen Beckenbach reported an average of 68 Band-tailed Pigeons throughout July at her Silver City residence. Walter LaFleur reported a number of Band-tailed Pigeons visiting his Bear Mountain property (15 July).

Band-tailed Pigeons by Walter LaFleur, Bear Mountain, 15 July 2011

Owls: A Flammulated Owl was heard calling just after dark near Mogollon (Christopher Rustay, 9 July). Christopher Rustay also heard Elf Owls calling between Glenwood and the Catwalk (9 July).

Goatsuckers: Several Mexican Whip-poor-wills were heard calling just after dark near Mogollon (Christopher Rustay, 9 July).

Hummingbirds: Eleanor Wootten reported her first Rufous Hummingbird on 8 July (middle Gila Valley). Christopher Rustay reported many Rufous Hummingbirds and at least three male and one female Magnificent Hummingbirds at Mogollon (9 July). Donna Stevens reported a Broad-billed Hummingbird from late June through early July at her Silver City residence. Elaine Halbedel reported a Calliope Hummingbird at her Silver City residence since mid-July and, at the same time, a male Lucifer Hummingbird visiting her feeders. Gene Lewis reported a Calliope Hummingbird at his Silver City residence (29 July). A Calliope Hummingbird was also reported by Eleanor Wootten at her middle Gila Valley feeders (17 July) and another report of this species by F. Stephenson at his residence on Pinos Altos Road (31 July).

Calliope Hummingbird by F. Stephenson, Silver City, 31 July 2011

Woodpeckers: Christopher Rustay reported a pair of American Three-toed Woodpeckers above Mogollon on the way to Willow Creek Campground (10 July).

Vireos: Gray Vireos were heard singing just north of Glenwood along Highway 180 and the first three miles along the road to Mogollon (Christopher Rustay, 10 July).

Corvids: A pair of Clark’s Nutcrackers were reported above Mogollon on the way to Willow Creek Campground (Christopher Rustay, 10 July). Karen Beckenbach reported that the Pinyon Jays that were visiting her Silver City residence were last seen 6 July.

Sparrows: Eleanor Wootten reported a singing Cassin’s Sparrow at her middle Gila Valley residence (12 July).

Cardinals and kin: Roger Lanse reported a Painted Bunting that visited his Arenas Valley residence on 21 July. The bird was featured in “The front yard birder,” which Roger writes for the Daily Press. Cinda Cole reported a Painted Bunting on the Pitch Fork Ranch south of Silver City (31 July). Karen Beckenbach reported a daily average of 15 Black-headed Grosbeaks during July visiting her Silver City residence, along with an Indigo Bunting (3 July). Eleanor Wootten reported two Black-headed Grosbeaks visiting her middle Gila Valley residence (26 July). Four Hepatic Tanagers were reported from the Gila Bird Area where they are uncommon (Roland Shook, 4 July).

Painted Bunting by Cinda Cole, Pitch Fork Ranch, 31 July 2011

Cowbirds: Gene Lewis reported one to three adult Bronzed Cowbirds at his Silver City residence from June until 25 July. A juvenile cowbird was present 16 July and 25-28 July. Unusual about the juvenile is like other cowbirds they are raised by non-cowbird foster parents. Cowbirds lay their eggs in the nest of other species and do not participate in the early raising of their young. They do flock together in the fall with other icterids and perhaps this juvenile was seeking others of its kind. Patricia Taber also reported a Bronzed Cowbird at her Silver City residence (17 July).

Juvenile Bronzed Cowbird by Gene Lewis, Silver City, 28 July 2011

Limited Edition Dale Zimmerman Prints available

I encourage the submission of records and photos. In order to increase the scientific value of your sightings, I encourage you to please include the number, a date and location for each species. Undated sightings, with or without a location or the number observed, are of a lesser value, however, all submissions are welcome. I do not know where many of you live, so a brief description would be much appreciated. Please send your photos and reports to tyrannidae@gmail.com. Thanks to all who submitted this month and in the past.

All photographs displayed in this Bird Sightings Report remain the sole property of the photographer. Expressed written permission from the photographer is necessary to use any of these photographs.

Photo of Common Mergansers at the top of this page was taken by Robert Shantz.

Please send comments to Roland Shook.

Quiz Bird

Species Accounts

Quiz Bird Answer

Species Accounts

Ebird.org

Species Accounts

Species Accounts

Species Accounts

Gila Bird Area – 10 December – Observations by Roland Shook

Bill Evans Lake – 10 December – Observations by Roland Shook

Gila Bird Area – 16 December – Observations by Roland Shook

Bill Evans Lake – 16 December – Observations by Roland Shook

Species Accounts

Bill Evans Lake – 23 November – Observations by Roland Shook

Gila Bird Area – 23 November – Observations by Roland Shook

Bill Evans Lake – 29 November – Observations by Roland Shook

Gila Bird Area – 29 November – Observations by Roland Shook

Field Trips

Southwestern New Mexico Audubon’s Field Trip to Lake Roberts

12 November, Leader Brian Dolton

Species List

Species Accounts

Species Acc0unts

Limited Edition of Dale Zimmerman Prints available

Quiz Birds

Species Acc0unts

Quiz Birds

Limited Edition of Dale Zimmerman Prints available

Species Acc0unts

Limited Edition Dale Zimmerman Prints available

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