March 2009

After a wet and stormy February, a very spring-like March brought with it a compliment of spring arrivals and breeding activity from resident species.  As expected, our regular swallows were busily scouting nesting sites by the first week of the month, aside from the much rarer and later-arriving Bank Swallow.  The first Purple Martin of the season was visiting the Roseville Rd colony on 3/11, with another martin seen flying at the Bobcat Ranch near Winters on 3/29, far from a known nesting site. 

View fullsize

The City of Sacramento is the only place Purple Martins persist in the Central Valley. In the past 4 years their numbers have declined by 52%. SAS contributes to an ongoing monitoring and conservation program led by Dan Airola (for more info click on the photo). Martin pair at the Sutterville colony. Female scratching and exposing band on leg. Photo by Chris Conard.

Western Kingbirds and Bullock’s Orioles added a splash of color from the south by the last week of March.  A few migrants beat the turning of the calendar with March arrivals.  First-of-season reports of Cassin’s Vireo (3/29), Nashville Warbler  (3/29), and Wilson’s Warbler (3/25) were slightly early at Cosumnes River Preserve (CRP).
 
As noted in last month’s column, some of the marquee gulls at the Davis Wastewater Treatment Plant continued well into March.  The adult Slaty-backed Gull found on 2/27 continued through 3/7.  The putative first-winter Iceland Gull (possibly of the nominate race glaucoides) was found again on 3/23 and 3/28 (see the February sightings for photos of these birds).  There was some debate whether this was a different bird than the one found last month, or just farther advanced into its molt.  A second-winter Lesser Black-backed Gull was found on 3/23.  Documentation of the three species above should be submitted to the California Bird Records Committee (californiabirds.org).  At least two Glaucous Gulls continued well into April.  It was stated last month that up to four Glaucous Gulls were found on a single day, but it should be noted that based on plumage characteristics at least seven different individuals were present in February and March.  The numbers and late occurrence of the species that was only recently considered very rare are obviously unprecedented.  An adult Western Gull at the Ancil Hoffman access to the American River Parkway (ARP) was reported on 3/17 and 3/26.
 
An amazing 11,300 Dunlin along with 2,800 Long-billed Dowitchers were at CRP on 3/26.  Unfortunately, much of this habitat literally evaporated (or drained) prior to the most dynamic period of the spring shorebird migration in April and early May, when rarities are most likely to be found among the usual suspects.  Other interesting reports include single Merlins from the upper ARP on 3/26 and 3/31, a Band-tailed Pigeon visiting a Rancho Cordova yard on 3/1 and about 20 band-tails at the Bobcat Ranch on 3/6.  A well-described Red-naped Sapsucker was found at the Gristmill access to ARP on 3/31.  A Common Raven nest on the famous Peregrine Falcon microwave tower along Bruceville Rd near CRP adds yet more emphasis to their overwhelming expansion into the heart of the Sacramento area.  A Red Fox Sparrow was found at CRP on 3/4, and Yellow-headed Blackbirds numbering around 1,500 made an impressive spectacle at the Yolo Wildlife Area (YWA) during the last ten days of the month.  Pine Siskins were considered abundant in Davis, regular in parts of Sacramento and the ARP, but were absent from CRP and other sites in the low floodplain where they had been regular in the fall.  From February, a nicely photographed juvenile Harlan’s (Red-tailed) Hawk at YWA was present from at least 2/21-24.

Many of these reports first appeared on the Central Valley Bird Club Listserv.  Visit www.cvbirds.org and click "Listserv" for details. With over 100 reports, it is impossible to list everyone; however, I want to thank the following for reports on the above species and for providing additional information:  Roger Adamson, Paul Buchanan, Dan Brown, Todd Easterla, Andy Engilis, Gil Ewing, Steve Hampton, Ed Harper, Scott Hoppe, Dan Kopp, Gary Langham, Jeri Langham, Cathie LaZier, Ed Pandolfino, Vance Russell, John Sterling, and John Trochet.  Thanks to everyone for their reports—without them, this column would not be possible.

February 2009

During an otherwise slow month, the gull spectacle at the Davis Landfill and the Davis Wastewater Treatment Plant far exceeded any past reports.  Thousands of gulls feed at the landfill and loaf on the treatment plant levees, and reports of three state review species brought out even reluctant gull watchers.  Photos and documentation of Slaty-backed, Lesser Black-backed, and Iceland Gulls should be submitted to the California Bird Records Committee (californiabirds.org).

Topping the list was an adult Slaty-backed Gull found on 2/27, which continued through at least 3/7.  Only since 2005 has this Asian species been on the official state list, and most records have been from Half Moon Bay.  1998 reports from Davis and Folsom Lake may be revisited now that this species is known to occur here.

Adult Slaty-backed Gull (dark-backed gull at center). Photo by Daniel Lee Brown, 3/4/09.

Same bird in flight showing the distinctive wing tip pattern: limited black with white “string of pearls.” Photo by Daniel Lee Brown, 3/4/09.

A very pale first-winter bird thought by many to be an Iceland Gull (possibly of the nominate race glaucoides) was found on 2/12 through at least 2/15.   There were several apparent Kumlien’s Iceland Gulls also reported during the month (this subspecies is less distinctive, and there is controversy surrounding Kumlien's/Thayer's Gull taxonomy).

This beautiful white gull is thought by many to be a first-winter Iceland Gull. Photo by Todd Easterla, 2/13/09

Adult Lesser Black-backed Gull. Photo by Todd Easterla, 2/12/09

The same bird in flight. Photo by Todd Easterla, 2/13/09

An adult Lesser Black-backed Gull was found on 2/12 through 2/17, with a second-winter bird reported on 2/27, continuing into March, and another adult was found on 2/28.  There had been no previous records for this species in Yolo County.  It must be mentioned that these highlight gulls were all found by Todd Easterla.  Locally impressive were up to four Glaucous Gulls and three Western Gulls among the multitudes at this site.

Aside from the gulls, this month produced much needed rain, but fewer bird reports than usual.  Interesting finds include a Long-eared Owl at Cosumnes River Preserve (CRP) on 2/7, perhaps the same bird that was found on 1/1, and a Chipping Sparrow at Discovery Park on 2/24.  A Common Poorwill was reported in a barn near Winters on 2/26.  This species is rarely reported in winter, and can go into a hibernation-like state for weeks at a time.  White-throated Sparrows were reported regularly at CRP and near the Gristmill access of the American River Parkway.  It is widely understood that raven numbers are increasing, though 240 Common Ravens reported along a two-mile stretch of County Line Rd (Yolo/Colusa) is amazing.  The report of a Western Kingbird at Stone Lakes NWR on the 1/3 Rio Cosumnes CBC was omitted from last month’s column.  This species is perhaps less expected than a  Tropical Kingbird in winter (that is certainly the case along the coast), but this year there were local reports in November (Lodi) and December (south of Davis).

Many of these reports first appeared on the Central Valley Bird Club Listserv.  Visit www.cvbirds.org and click "Listserv" for details. With nearly 100 reports, it is impossible to list everyone; however, I want to thank the following for reports on the above species and for providing additional information:  Steve Abbott, Roger Adamson, Dan Brown, Todd Easterla, Andy Engilis, Gil Ewing, Steve Hampton, Jim Holmes, Jeri Langham, Ed Pandolfino, Vance Russell, John Sterling, John Trochet, and Dan Williams.  Thanks to everyone for their reports—without them, this column would not be possible.

January 2009

This male Summer Tanager was found by Karl Oettle on 1/29/09 in Orangevale. This species has been found wintering in the Sacramento area on a few other occasions. In March of 2008, a male Summer Tanager was found in El Dorado Hills, having also been found there the previous two winters. Photo by Karlin Oettle, 2/9/09.

---

This month was fairly dry with long stretches of inviting spring like weather.  It also wrapped up the Christmas Count season, with the Rio Cosumnes CBC on 1/3 and the Folsom CBC on 1/4.  The bird of the month was a gorgeous male Summer Tanager visiting a private yard in Orangevale.  It was found on 1/29 and continued through at least 2/12.

Scouting for Rio Cosumnes produced a Long-eared Owl at Cosumnes River Preserve (CRP) on 1/1.  That bird was not refound on 1/3, but other CRP highlights included a Eurasian Green-winged Teal, a Least Bittern, a Cassin's Vireo, and two Chestnut-collared Longspurs.  A rare blue morph Ross's Goose was reported within the count circle on Merritt Island, Yolo County.  Folsom CBC highlights included two Steller's Jays (one near Lake Natoma, the other at the Peninsula portion of Folsom Lake), a flock of Red Crossbills in Folsom, and five Lawrence's Goldfinches near Sweetwater Creek.

The Folsom CBC also produced an adult Western Gull and a first-winter Glaucous Gull at Folsom Lake.  The latter was found again on 1/14.  The Davis Landfill and Wastewater Treatment Plant hosted thousands of gulls, which feed at the landfill and roost on the treatment pond levees.  The highlights were at least three different Glaucous Gulls, including an adult, at least three Western Gulls, and a very impressive 350 Thayer's Gulls.

A Yellow-shafted [Northern] Flicker was reported in North Davis on 1/22, with another at the Nimbus Hatchery on 1/23.  Caution is always advised to rule out intergrades with Red-shafted Flickers.  These are far more common than "pure" birds (note especially the face pattern, crown and cheek color).  An adult Northern Shrike was at CRP's Valensin unit on 1/14, and another adult was reported near Catlett and Brewer Rds on 1/26.  Two Greater Scaup were found at the Yolo Wildlife Area on 1/17, and there were several reports of a Eurasian Wigeon from that location, along with scattered reports throughout the Sacramento area.  Highlights from a 1/10 visit to CRP included a "Western" Flycatcher (Pacific-slope/Cordilleran), and four to five Western Tanagers (owing to an excellent wild grape crop this fall).  Other interesting finds include a Swainson's Hawk over Davis on 1/30, a Selasphorus Hummingbird (Rufous/Allen's) at UC Davis on 1/25, and two Chipping Sparrows at the Masonic Lawn Cemetery in Sacramento near Broadway and Riverside on 1/18.

Many of these reports first appeared on the Central Valley Bird Club Listserv.  Visit www.cvbirds.org and click "Listserv" for details.  With nearly 100 reports, it is impossible to list everyone; however, I want to thank the following for reports on the above species and for providing additional information:  Roger Adamson, George Chaniot, Todd Easterla, Andy Engilis, Gil Ewing, Steve Hampton, Cliff Hawley, Scott Hoppe, Jeri Langham, Don Lotter, Karl and Karlin Oettle, Ed Pandolfino, Mary Schiedt, Zach Smith, John Sterling, Craig Swolgaard, John Trochet, Bruce Webb, and Dan Williams.  Thanks to everyone for their reports—without them, this column would not be possible.

November 2008

While there were no major standout reports this month, there were a lot of good birds seen.  Pine Siskins continued to be reported in good numbers (and were downright common in Davis), though fewer were seen in some areas toward the end of the month.  As is appropriate for the time of year, waterfowl were well represented among the reports. 

On 11/2, there were an impressive 22 Blue-winged Teal at the Davis Wetlands.  A Greater Scaup was reported at Sutter NWR on 11/11, a female Surf Scoter was found at the Lincoln WTP on 11/4 through 11/7, and a Red-breasted Merganser was on the American River near Gristmill on 11/18, while two were on the Yolo County Rd 103 pond on 11/19.  On 11/28, a hybrid Bufflehead X Common Goldeneye was reported at Lake Solano. 

A Yellow-shafted Northern Flicker was found at Cosumnes River Preserve (CRP) on 11/2.  It was well studied to rule out an intergrade with a Red-shafted Northern Flicker.  These intergrades account for nearly all of the flickers in our area showing yellow-shafted characteristics.  "Western" Flycatchers (probably Pacific-slope Flycatchers) were reported at CRP on 11/1 and 11/14, with two on 11/29.  Also at CRP on 11/29, a "Solitary" Vireo was found, but was not seen well enough to identify to species, and a grosbeak was found (likely a Black-headed Grosbeak).  Most astonishing that day at CRP were 11 White-throated Sparrows—perhaps the single-day record for one location in the Sacramento area.  Rounding out the Cosumnes reports were a Swamp Sparrow on 11/28 and two Cassin's Finches on 11/9.  A Long-eared Owl and a Canyon Wren were found on private land in southeastern Sacramento County that is part of the CRP Project.  For the latter species, this is only the second record for the county since 1967. 

A bedraggled Western Kingbird found near the Lodi Sewer Ponds during the Central Valley Birding Symposium (11/22-23) was extremely rare for the season.  Other interesting reports include a male Costa's Hummingbird at UC Davis on 11/20, a Red-naped Sapsucker in Galt throughout the month, a Townsend's Solitaire at Lake Solano on 11/2, a mini-invasion of Steller's Jays on 11/8 and 11/9 (near Gristmill, in Orangevale, Newcastle, and near Lincoln), and a Cassin's Finch in Davis on 11/18.  A Swainson's Hawk was seen at the Yolo WA on 11/15, over 50 Cattle Egrets were regularly reported at Glenbrook Park adjacent to the American River, an adult Western Gull was at Sherman Island on 11/11, two Pacific Golden-Plovers were on Flannery Rd south of Dixon on 11/8, and 60-65 Mountain Plovers were there on 11/29. 

Many of these reports first appeared on the Central Valley Bird Club Listserv.  Visit www.cvbirds.org and click "Listserv" for details.  With over 100 reports, it is impossible to list everyone; however, I want to thank the following for reports on the above species and for providing additional information:  Steve Abbott, Roger Adamson, Terry Colborn, Andy Engilis, Tim Fitzer, Steve Hampton, Ed Harper, Doug Herr, Scott Hoppe, Dan Kopp, Manfred Kusch, Jeri Langham, Jim Laughlin, Frances Oliver, Ed Pandolfino, Phil Robertson, Jim Rowoth, Mary Schiedt, John Sterling, John Trochet, Bobby Walsh, Ed Whisler, Dan Williams, and David Yee.  Thanks to everyone for their reports—without them, this column would not be possible.

October 2008

In avian terms, September gives way to October without the page-turning abruptness of the human calendar.  The songbird migration continues, but begins to sputter after the first week.   Waterfowl numbers build, and reports of our uncommon raptors—Ferruginous Hawk, Rough-legged Hawk, Merlin—increase.  Each fall is a bit different from the one before.  This year, Pine Siskins have been widely reported, and Chestnut-backed Chickadees staged a minor invasion of the Putah Creek watershed.  Always a favorite, Lewis's Woodpeckers returned in good numbers to the blue oak savanna.  To our south, a million or more Tree Swallows staged in corn fields west of Tracy in the latter half of the month, and were gone before the calendar turned to November.  They were first detected on weather radar, as a flock this size shows up when it disperses in the morning, and they made a splash in the local news.

Standouts for the month include a Red-necked Grebe at the Winters Sewer Ponds on 10/19, a female Surf Scoter at the Lincoln WTP on 10/27, and a Red Phalarope at the same location on 10/7-8.  A Blackpoll Warbler was reported along Putah Creek, west of Winters, on 10/4.  The following day, a Chestnut-sided Warbler was found in north Davis.  The male Northern Parula found at Cosumnes River Preserve (CRP) on 7/26 continued until at least 10/2.  A Lapland Longspur was reported at the junction of Brewer and Nicholas Rds in Placer County on 10/15.  The most tantalizing report of the month was of one or two Red-throated Pipits.  The bird(s) were heard calling on 10/21 as they flew over a Yolo County field near Rds 105 and 29.

Other interesting reports include a rather late Solitary Sandpiper found at the Yolo Wildlife Area on 10/18, Band-tailed Pigeons from Discovery Park on 10/7 and CRP on 10/18, a Northern Pygmy-Owl from southeastern Sacramento County on 10/17, three Common Poorwills from the same location on 10/15 and one at CRP on 10/5, and a Hammond's Flycatcher at CRP on 10/12.  A trip up Yolo County's Rayhouse Rd on 10/13 produced two Hammond's Flycatchers, two Chestnut-backed Chickadees, and three Cassin's Finches.  A "bold pair" of Pileated Woodpeckers continued at Lake Solano, and an albino Eared Grebe was at CRP on 10/11.  Along the American River Parkway, the California Thrasher continued upstream of the Howe access, and a Red Fox Sparrow was found for just one day on 10/12 near the Gristmill access.

Many of these reports first appeared on the Central Valley Bird Club Listserv.  Visit www.cvbirds.org and click "Listserv" for details.  With over 100 reports, it is impossible to list everyone; however, I want to thank the following for reports on the above species and for providing additional information:  Roger Adamson, Dan Airola, Todd Easterla, Andy Engilis, Gil Ewing, Steve Hampton, Dan Kopp, Manfred Kusch, Jeri Langham, Ed Pandolfino, Phil Robertson, Deren Ross, Jim Rowoth, Mary Schiedt, John Sterling, John Trochet, Bobby Walsh, and Dan Williams.  Thanks to everyone for their reports—without them, this column would not be possible.

September 2008

September is the heart of fall songbird migration, and this year it did not disappoint.  Regular western migrants were reported in good numbers and from many locations.  Shorebird numbers and diversity also remained strong.  By the end of the month, many returning winter residents, such as Red-breasted Sapsuckers, Hermit Thrushes, and White-crowned and Golden-crowned Sparrows were being recorded.

Highlights begin with eastern songbirds detected along the American River Parkway (ARP).  For the second year in a row, a Bay-breasted Warbler was found at the Gristmill access (9/20-21).  A Palm Warbler was an excellent find just upstream of the Howe Access (9/23-25).  Rounding out the parkway warblers, a male Black-and-white Warbler was found at Lower Sunrise on 9/24.  An adult male Rose-breasted Grosbeak was found at Discovery Park on 9/10, while a probable first-year bird was seen the same morning just to the north along Bannon Creek.  The male Northern Parula found at Cosumnes River Preserve (CRP) on 7/26 continued into October.  9/27 produced a second Northern Parula at a different CRP location.  A Tennessee Warbler was a nice find along Putah Creek, upstream of Davis (9/9).

In a month packed with highlights, a Chimney Swift heard calling among a flock of Vaux's Swifts near the UC Davis Med Center on 9/9 is one of few ever reported for the Sacramento area.  A first-year Sabine's Gull at the Woodland WTP on 9/25 was another excellent find.  A Hairy Woodpecker at CRP on 9/28 was only the fourth record for the preserve in 20 years of surveys.  A Chestnut-backed Chickadee at Discovery Park on 9/10 is one of few records for Sacramento County. 

Shorebirds were well-represented among the month's reports.  A Pacific Golden-Plover was found on 9/24 at the Woodland WTP, and a Snowy Plover was along the shoreline of Folsom Lake at Beal's Point on 9/11.  Two Sanderlings were there as well, and they were more widely reported than usual:  Lincoln WTP on 9/5, south of Dixon on 9/15, and along the Feather River at Bobelaine on 9/18-19.  Two Solitary Sandpipers were at North Davis Farms on 9/8, and one was west of Yuba City (9/16-17).  Semipalmated Sandpipers were found along Brewer Rd in Placer County on 9/4 and at the Lincoln WTP on 9/10.  Pectoral Sandpipers were widely reported, with 9 or more at the Woodland WTP on 9/24.

Other interesting reports include a first-year Common Tern at the Davis WTP (9/9), an Olive-sided Flycatcher at the Sacramento County Bufferlands on the fairly late date of 9/19, a Dusky Flycatcher at CRP on 9/4, a late Western Kingbird in Davis on 9/22, and a California Thrasher that spent the month near the Howe Access was unusual for ARP.

Many of these reports first appeared on the Central Valley Bird Club Listserv.  Visit www.cvbirds.org and click "Listserv" for details.  With over 100 reports, it is impossible to list everyone; however, I want to thank the following for reports on the above species and for providing additional information:  Roger Adamson, Todd Easterla, Steve Hampton, James Holmes, Dan Kopp, Manfred Kusch, Mark Martucci, Jeri Langham, Jim Laughlin, Frances Oliver, Ed Pandolfino, Michael Perrone, June Persson, Dave Quady, Toby Rohmer, Deren Ross, Mary Schiedt, Zach Smith, John Sterling, John Trochet, and Dan Williams.  Thanks to everyone for their reports—without them, this column would not be possible.

August 2008

August is a great time for birding in the Sacramento area.  Really, it is.  This is known by experienced birders, but is still not widely accepted by most.  Sure, it can be very hot, but it also gets light very early.  The hours before 9am can be pleasant and very birdy.  August is perhaps the most productive month for "fall" shorebirding, though July and September are excellent too.  Songbird migrants, especially in the second half of the month, can be quite numerous.

While this August provided us with many birds, there were only a few rarities found, and most of the best of those were continuing from the previous month.  These included the two Stilt Sandpipers at the Davis Wetlands (DW), which continued from 7/31 to 8/2, and the two Least Terns that attempted to nest (their eggs failed to hatch) at the Sacramento Reg. Wastewater Treatment Plant (SRWTP).  First seen on 6/27, the terns were last seen at the SRWTP Bufferlands on 8/5.  The male Northern Parula found at Cosumnes River Preserve (CRP) on 7/26 continued well into September.  A Plumbeous Vireo reported on 8/31 at the South Fork Putah Creek Preserve, just downstream from Mace Blvd, was perhaps the best August-only rarity.  A very early Brown Creeper was a there as well--recall that a nest was found farther upstream on 5/18.  A Green-tailed Towhee, also quite early, was a nice find at the West Pond in Davis on 8/10.

Among the uncommon shorebird finds, the best "haul" occurred at CRP on the morning of 8/5, with a Snowy Plover, two Marbled Godwits (far less common in Sacramento County than Yolo), a Semipalmated Sandpiper, and a Baird's Sandpiper.  An impressive total of 78 Semipalmated Plovers was reported from the Woodland WTP on 8/8.  Single Solitary Sandpipers were reported from private property in eastern Yolo County on 8/8 and DW on 8/10.  Five Willets were at the Davis WTP on 8/10, and an impressive 25 Marbled Godwits were at DW on 8/19—six godwits were also at the Lincoln WTP on 8/19.  Single juvenile  Semipalmated Sandpipers were at the Bufferlands on 8/2 and 8/7.  A Baird's Sandpiper was found at the Lincoln WTP on 8/19, with one to two at the Bufferlands in the second half of the month.

A female or young male Calliope Hummingbird was found on 8/8 after striking a window in Natomas.  This species is more often recorded in spring.  Other interesting reports include a Hermit Thrush thought to be one of the western montane races on the early date of 8/1, and the continuing male Common Goldeneye  along the American River near Gristmill continued into September.  Banded Caspian Terns photographed mid-month at SRWTP proved to be from colonies in Richmond, CA and the Columbia River, OR.  A late report of a Band-tailed Pigeon near Galt on 6/8/08 is one of very few for the Central Valley in summer, and all the more interesting when taken with the Band-tailed Pigeon found along the American River at River Bend (formerly Goethe) Park on 7/2.

Many of these reports first appeared on the Central Valley Bird Club Listserv.  Visit www.cvbirds.org and click "Listserv" for details.  With nearly 100 reports, it is impossible to list everyone; however, I want to thank the following for reports on the above species and for providing additional information:  Roger Adamson, Todd Easterla, Gil Ewing, Richard Hall, Steve Hampton, Scott Hoppe, Manfred Kusch, Jeri Langham, Cathie LaZier, Shawn Lockwood, Michael Marsh, Ed Pandolfino, Deren Ross, Jo Ellen Ryan, Mary Schiedt, John Sterling, Gene Trapp, John Trochet, Dan Williams, and David Yee.  Thanks to everyone for their reports—without them, this column would not be possible.

June - July 2008

While often considered the summer doldrums, June and July typically produce a few interesting records.  Sometimes these are in the form of a late migrating vagrant songbird.  A male Bobolink on 6/1 at the Granite Reg. Park in south Sacramento was just the type of record we look for in June.  Harder to explain was a gorgeous Brown Thrasher at the Stone Lakes NWR that was mist-netted on 7/10 and heard singing on 7/11.  Another big surprise was the first recorded Least Terns in Sacramento County.  Two were found at the Sacramento Reg. Wastewater Treatment Plant (SRWTP) on 6/27.  A nest was found on 7/1, though the eggs failed to hatch and the terns were last seen on 8/5.

Shorebirds are always a highlight for the period, with migrants starting to arrive in late June, and building in numbers through July and into August.  The shorebird highlight of the period was of two Stilt Sandpipers, still partially in breeding plumage, with dowitchers at the Davis Wetlands from 7/31 to 8/2.  Another nice surprise was a molting adult male Ruff (sporting a ruff) at the Yolo Wildlife Area (YWA) on 7/15.  Other shorebird highlights included an adult Pacific Golden-Plover and two Marbled Godwits on Sherman Island near the Antioch Bridge on 7/28.  Up to ten Marbled Godwits were reported from various Yolo County locations.  The Woodland WTP hosted a Snowy Plover on 7/29, a Willet on 7/26, and a  Semipalmated Sandpiper on 7/31.  Single Willets were also found at SRWTP (7/25) and Cosumnes River Preserve (CRP) on 7/30.  A Solitary Sandpiper was found at CRP on 7/27.

Cassin's Kingbirds were reported from two different locations on Sherman Island on 6/26, with one carrying food, indicating a possible nesting attempt.  Unfortunately, they were not refound on subsequent visits.  A male Northern Parula was found at CRP on 7/26 and continued well into August.  Additional reports included a Hammond's Flycatcher in north Davis on 6/6, an immature male Indigo Bunting at CRP on 6/22, a very late Lincoln's Sparrow from Granite Reg. Park on 6/3, and Red-breasted Nuthatches  reported on 7/27 from both CRP and Davis.  The only Bank Swallow report in Sacramento County was one from SRWTP on 7/9, but over 80 were found in July at YWA.

A Band-tailed Pigeon was an interesting find, especially for the summer, at River Bend Park (formerly Goethe Park) on 7/2.  There has been continued expansion of White-faced Ibis breeding in the Sacramento area.  A large rookery was visible from I-80 in the tules just south of the Yolo Causeway at YWA.  A "ratty-looking" male Common Goldeneye was found along the American River near Gristmill on 7/27 and continued into August.  At least one Common Nighthawk returned to Meiss Rd in eastern Sacramento County, as they have since 2005.

Many of these reports first appeared on the Central Valley Bird Club Listserv.  Visit www.cvbirds.org and click "Listserv" for details.  With 150 reports, it is impossible to list everyone; however, I want to thank the following for reports on the above species and for providing additional information:  Roger Adamson, Dan Brown, Todd Easterla, Andy Engilis, Gil Ewing, Steve Hampton, Ed Harper, Scott Hoppe, David Johnson, Dan Kopp, Manfred Kusch, Jeri Langham, John Luther, Ed Pandolfino, Ann Pellegrini, Andy Pfeffer, Deren Ross, Mary Schiedt, Stefan Schlick, John Sterling, John Trochet, Charley Walker, Dan Williams, and Stan Wright.  Thanks to everyone for their reports—without them, this column would not be possible.

April - May 2008

For many, April through May is the highlight of the birding year.  Common Western songbird passage peaks from mid-April to mid-May, though the end of May into early June is a good time to look for Eastern vagrants.  Shorebirds tend to peak earlier, with the bulk of the birds having moved on by the second week of May.  In addition to the expected species, there were a few surprises this season.  A Black-and-white Warbler was found along Putah Creek near Stevenson's Bridge on 4/17.  Another  Black-and-white Warbler was seen on 5/24 along with a "fall out" of common Western species at the UC Davis Riparian Reserve.  On 5/16, a gorgeous singing male Hooded Warbler spent the day at the Gristmill Rec. Area of the American River Parkway (ARP).

Additional highlights for the period included a Red-necked Grebe in breeding plumage at the Lincoln WTP on 5/5 and a breeding plumage Franklin's Gull  photographed on 4/5 at the Davis Wetlands.  A Snowy Plover at Beal AFB on 4/29 was a first for Yuba County and a Red Knot in breeding plumage near Dingville (south of Yuba City) on 5/13 was an excellent find.  A Solitary Sandpiper was found on 4/3 at Sailor Bar, ARP, in addition to one at Cosumnes River Preserve (CRP) on 4/12, and another at North Davis Farms on 5/8.  On 4/18 at CRP, a Willet and four Short-billed Dowitchers were reported.  Twenty-four Marbled Godwits at Yolo Wildlife Area (YWA) on 5/1 was the high count for the spring.

It was an excellent spring for Gray Flycatchers, with two from Davis, and single birds from Sacramento, CRP, and ARP between 4/19 and 5/3.  At least five were found in the Auburn State Rec. Area on 4/29.  To the south of our typical area of coverage came a report of 62 Gray Flycatchers in the foothills of Madera County on 4/25.  Typically thought of as a rare spring migrant west of the Sierra crest, this is an outstanding report. A Dusky Flycatcher was reported at North Davis Farms on 4/14.  On 4/27, two  Hammond's Flycatchers and one Dusky Flycatcher were found at CRP.

The Green-tailed Towhee first found on 11/25 in a Rancho Cordova backyard continued through at least 5/9.  Another Green-tailed Towhee was seen in a Carmichael yard on 4/18.  On 4/26, a Brewer's Sparrow was found north of the Cosumnes River on Michigan Bar Rd.  On 4/27, two Grasshopper Sparrows were reported along Meiss Rd.  A Harris's Sparrow was found on private property along the Mokelumne River near Lodi on 4/29.  A very late Golden-crowned Sparrow was at the Sacramento County Bufferlands on 5/27.

Other interesting reports included two Brown Creepers taking food to a nest along Putah Creek in Solano County on 5/18, a Calliope Hummingbird in Olivehurst on 4/21, another along Putah Creek on 4/24, and a Sage Thrasher on 5/14 along Thornton Rd to the south of the Lodi WTP.  There was an amazing report of over 300 Swainson's Hawks south of Tracy along I-5 on 5/29.  A very late (possibly injured) Rough-legged Hawk was found in Placer County near Dowd and Waltz Rds from 4/24 through at least 4/26.  A report of 70 Common Yellowthroats at CRP on 4/12 was impressive.  A Hooded Merganser with 11-12 young was reported on 5/5 from Sun City Lincoln Hills where this species has now bred for several years.

Many of these reports first appeared on the Central Valley Bird Club Listserv.  Visit www.cvbirds.org and click "Listserv" for details.  With over 150 reports, it is impossible to list everyone; however, I want to thank the following for reports on the above species and for providing additional information:  Ryan Abe, Steve Abbott, Roger Adamson, Dan Brown, Subhash Chand, Todd Easterla, Andy Engilis, Irene Engilis, Gil Ewing, Tim Fitzer, Maureen Geiger, Steve Hampton, Ed Harper, Scott Hoppe, David Johnson, Jon Katz, Dan Kopp, Manfred Kusch, Jeri Langham, Jim Laughlin, Cin-Ty Lee, Tim Manolis, Ed Pandolfino, Andy Pfeffer, Deren Ross, Kathryn Sanderson, Mary Schiedt, John Sterling, John Trochet, Charley Walker, Dee Warenycia, Brian Williams, and Dan Williams.  Thanks to everyone for their reports—without them, this column would not be possible.

March 2008

Each March when the spring-like weather arrives, there's a sense of anticipation—if not impatience—for the spring migrants to appear.  We search in vain through flocks of singing and brightly colored Yellow-rumped Warblers for the first of the Neotropical migrants, but it is not until April that good numbers of migrants move through the area.  For the time we must be satisfied with Western Kingbirds and Bullock's Orioles, which arrive in the second half of March.  Yet, nearly every month there is a surprise or two.  For the third year in a row, a gorgeous male Summer Tanager was found in March in El Dorado Hills along New York Creek.  This year, it was first reported on 3/15 and continued for at least 10 days.  The first Pacific-slope Flycatcher of the season was reported from that location on 3/25.  A singing male Western Tanager in fine plumage was a bit early (or perhaps it wintered) on 3/27 at CSU, Sacramento.  Similarly, a Hermit Warbler found on 3/29 was either an early migrant or had spent the winter in the Campus Commons neighborhood across the American River from the CSU.

The two Ruff (a male and a female), first found at the Yolo Wildlife Area (YWA) on 2/27, continued through at least 3/17—though both were not always found throughout the period.  A Marbled Godwit was found there on 3/15.  An adult Western Gull and two Glaucous Gulls (one adult and one first cycle) were found on 3/4 at the Davis Wetlands.  A Horned Grebe was also present.  This species is rare in our area away from reservoirs in the foothills.  The fortunate observer will spot them coming into breeding plumage just before they leave our area.  On 3/31, three Horned Grebes were reported in breeding plumage at Lake Natoma.

Other interesting reports include at least one Northern Saw-whet Owl found on private land at Ryer Island for the second year in a row.  This year one was first reported on 2/18 and it continued through at least 3/13.  On 3/29, a Vaux's Swift and a Bank Swallow at Cosumnes River Preserve accounted for the first reports of the season for our area.  The first Purple Martins in Sacramento were reported on 3/10.  After a good season for Rough-legged Hawks in our area, the last bird was reported at YWA on 3/20 and 3/27.  Another fairly late Rough-legged Hawk was found at Lynch Canyon in Solano County on 3/22.  An adult Mew Gull was found at the Ione Sewage Ponds on 3/2.  It continued through at least 3/4.  Possibly the same bird was found at Lake Comanche on 3/5 in addition to a Red-throated Loon.

Many of these reports first appeared on the Central Valley Bird Club Listserv.   Visit www.cvbirds.org and click "Listserv" for details.  With over 100 reports, it is impossible to list everyone; however, I want to thank the following for reports on the above species and for providing additional information:  Steve Abbott, Roger Adamson, Dan Brown, Paul Buchanan, Subhash Chand, Todd Easterla, Andy Engilis, Gil Ewing, Maureen Geiger, Steve Hampton, Ed Harper, Cliff Hawley, Scott Hoppe, David Johnson, Dan Kopp, Jeri Langham, Robin Leong, John Luther, Karla Meadows, Ed Pandolfino, Deren Ross, Mary Schiedt, John Sterling, Dan Tankersley, John Trochet and Liz West.  Thanks to everyone for their reports—without them, this column would not be possible.

February 2008

The report of the month came in the form of two Glossy Ibis in Placer County on 2/16 along Brewer Rd, just to the north of Nicolaus Rd.  This species on the California Bird Records Committee review list has been reported locally several times in the past year.  The first accepted record for the state was as recent as 2000.  A few dedicated birders have been looking very carefully through White-faced Ibis flocks.  The wider application of high quality spotting scopes—in the hands of skilled observers—is a big factor in the increased reports.  There are also many more ibis to look through in recent years.  Just in the past two decades White-faced Ibis have gone from rare to abundant in our area—a little good news for a change!

Continuing on the topic of state review species, presumably the same Emperor Goose reported at the Yolo Wildlife Area (YWA) on 1/13, flying with a large flock of Snow Geese, was seen again on 2/12.  Other waterfowl reports include at least five Eurasian Wigeons on 2/16 along Pleasant Grove Rd, south of Nicolaus Rd, in Sutter County.  A Eurasian Wigeon at the Sacramento County Bufferlands on 2/20 added to the handful of records for that location, and two Greater Scaup were present there on 2/22. 

Two Ruff (a male and a female) were first found at YWA on 2/27, and continued into March.  This rare species has been amazingly regular at this location.  On 2/7, an adult Lesser Black-backed Gull was reported from Beal's Point at Folsom Lake.  This is a state review species, but has been reported more widely in the state in recent years.  It is still an outstanding find away from the coast or the Salton Sea.  At least one first-year Glaucous Gull was found at the Davis Wetlands on 2/16 during the Central Valley Bird Club's winter gulls tour.

Reports of up to ten Short-eared Owls along Yolo County Rd 28H and 103 (west of the landfill) began on 2/10 and continued through the end of the month.  There have been excellent totals of this species throughout the region this winter.  At least one Northern Saw-whet Owl was found on private land on Ryer Island for the second year in a row.  This year it was first reported on 2/18.  Other interesting reports include several Bald Eagle sightings on the upper portion of the American River Parkway, a Greater Roadrunner along Yolo County Rd 95 near Zamora on 2/15, up to 200 Violet-green Swallows foraging along the American River near the Nimbus Hatchery during a break in a storm on 2/24, at least two of the Lapland Longspurs continuing through 2/9 near the corner of Brewer and Nicolaus Rds in Placer County, and a Black-headed Grosbeak found northeast of Davis on 1/21, continuing through at least 2/6, was determined to be an immature male.  The male Cassin's Finch found near Slide Hill Park in Davis on 1/29 continued through at least 2/1, and Lawrence's Goldfinches were found coming to feeders in Rancho Cordova and Fair Oaks. 

Many of these reports first appeared on the Central Valley Bird Club Listserv.   Visit www.cvbirds.org and click "Listserv" for details.  With over 150 reports, it is impossible to list everyone; however, I want to thank the following for reports on the above species and for providing additional information:  Steve Abbott, Roger Adamson, Dan Brown, Paul Buchanan, Subhash Chand, Todd Easterla, Andy Engilis, Gil Ewing, Maureen Geiger, Phil Gordon, Steve Hampton, Ed Harper, Cliff Hawley, Scott Hoppe, David Johnson, Jeri Langham, Robin Leong, Shawn Lockwood, Ed Pandolfino, Jim Pearce, Deren Ross, Mary Schiedt, John Sterling, Dan Tankersley, John Trochet, and Bruce Webb.  Thanks to everyone for their reports—without them, this column would not be possible.

January 2008

Several of the month's highlights were found on the 1/3 Rio Cosumnes CBC, including a Eurasian Green-winged Teal, a locally impressive five Eurasian Wigeon, 70 Eurasian Collared-Doves, two Long-eared Owls, a Hermit Warbler, and a Grasshopper Sparrow.  Over 300 Great-tailed Grackles were reported around Elk Grove—one of the area hotspots for this expanding species.  Scouting trips prior to the count produced a Bald Eagle, a Barn Swallow, and a Yellow Warbler.  A Rusty Blackbird was reported from an Arno Rd dairy on 1/1.  Documentation of this and other state review species should be submitted to the California Bird Records Committee.

Suburban Sacramento County produced a few excellent reports.  A Plumbeous Vireo was found in Elk Grove Park from 1/16 to at least 1/21.  The Land Park neighborhood in Sacramento hosted a Townsend's Solitaire from 1/19 to 1/23 and a Mountain Chickadee from 1/28 to at least 1/30—Brown Creepers, a  Townsend's Warbler, and a Western Tanager were also found by those looking for the locally rarer species.  An unidentified Empidonax flycatcher was found near the Sacramento Zoo on 1/1 (continuing from 12/24).  The Green-tailed Towhee found in a Rancho Cordova backyard on 11/25 continued through January.  

The gull extravaganza continued at the Davis Landfill and Davis WTP.  There were impressive reports throughout the month, exemplified by a 1/10 report of an adult "Kumlien's" Iceland Gull (a state review species), two Glaucous Gulls, and six Western Gulls.  200-300 Thayer's Gulls were reported, adding to the site's reputation as one of the premiere gull watching locations in the state.  The high numbers of Western Gulls (9 were reported on 1/19) may be attributed to storms driving this typically coastal species inland.  An adult Western Gull was also reported from Lower Sunrise on the American River Parkway on 1/15.

There was a spectacular report of an Emperor Goose (a state review species) at the Yolo Wildlife Area (YWA) on 1/13 flying with a large flock of Snow Geese.  Presumably the same bird was seen again on 2/12.  There is one previous record for the county: 1907!  There was a most intriguing report of a Leach's Storm-Petrel flying along Hwy 99 near Stockton on 1/7 after a heavy storm.  A very productive trip to Lake Solano on 1/13 produced reports of a Hairy Woodpecker, a Pileated Woodpecker, five Brown Creepers, a White-throated Sparrow, and 10 Purple Finches. Other good finds included a Red-throated Loon from Comanche Reservoir on 1/5, a Ruff at YWA on 1/19, a Yellow-bellied Sapsucker in Fairfield continuing from 11/18, a dead Long-eared Owl at West Pond in Davis on 1/20, a Pacific-slope Flycatcher at Lake Solano on 1/22, a Black-headed Grosbeak northeast of Davis on 1/21, and up to four Lapland Longspurs continuing near the corner of Brewer and Nicolaus Rds in Placer County.  A male Cassin's Finch was found near Slide Hill Park in Davis on 1/29 and continued through at least 1/31.  This species also staged a minor invasion into the foothills just above the area typically treated in this column.

Many of these reports first appeared on the Central Valley Bird Club Listserv.   Visit www.cvbirds.org and click "Listserv" for details.  With over 150 reports, it is impossible to list everyone; however, I want to thank the following for reports on the above species and for providing additional information:  Roger Adamson, Dan Brown, Todd Easterla, Leo Edson, Andy Engilis, Gil Ewing, Maureen Geiger, Jeff Gilligan, Steve Hampton, Ed Harper, Cliff Hawley, Scott Hoppe, David Johnson, Alison Kent, Jeri Langham, Laura Look, John Luther, Ed Pandolfino, Deren Ross, Mike San Miguel, Jr., Mary Schiedt, John Sterling, Craig Swolgaard, Gene Trapp, John Trochet, and Bruce Webb.  Special thanks to Steve Hampton for a summary of Yolo County birds and to everyone for their reports—without them, this column would not be possible.