April - May 2013

In the spring of 2013, single Hooded Merganser chicks were delivered to veterinary clinics in both Loomis and Cool, Placer County (Stefanie Stewart, pers. com.). The nest sites of these birds are unknown, but these chicks and others found in the same area in 2011 and 2012 point to additional nesting in the region. Photo by Amber Mecum and Stefanie Stewart.

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It is difficult to condense two of the most active months on the avian calendar, but though this spring was slim on hoped for vagrant songbirds, some regular western migrants were very well represented. There were good numbers of uncommon Empidonax flycatchers and Yellow-breasted Chats were too numerous to list (http://rayrozema.smugmug.com/Birds/Warblers/15005972_Hb5mXS#!i=2482861145&k=Bg9JNqj).

For the third year in a row, Hooded Mergansers nested at Cosumnes River Preserve (CRP), with a nest found in a Wood Duck box at Horseshoe Lake east of Hwy 99. A female with six chicks near the Valensin Forest at CRP on 5/21 may have been from that nest or could represent another breeding record. This species is now becoming established as a nesting bird in California and portions of the Central Valley (http://sora.unm.edu/sites/default/files/journals/wb/v37n04/p0228-p0236.pdf).

Snowy Plovers were found at Folsom Lake near the Granite Bay Boat Launch on 4/6, the Woodland WTP on 4/10, and CRP on 4/28. The only Solitary Sandpiper reported was at CRP’s Cougar Wetlands on 4/27. Single Willetswere found at CRP on 4/13, the Granite Bay Boat Launch on 4/17, with seven there on 5/3, and in Sutter County on 4/23 along Marcuse Rd off Hwy 99 and along W Catlett Rd. Two Sanderlings were at the Granite Bay Boat Launch from 5/6-8 and an adult Franklin’s Gull was seen there on 4/13.

A migrating Common Poorwill was found at Yolo Grasslands Park on 5/3 and single Calliope Hummingbirds were at CRP on 4/13 and Babel Slough on 5/4. Willow Flycatchers are more easily found in fall migration, with spring reports this year at Yolo Grasslands on 5/24, the Sacramento Bypass northwest of West Sacamento on 5/23-24, the Sacramento County Bufferlands on 5/28, and Folsom on 5/29. In addition to the numerous Hammond’s Flycatcher reports, Dusky Flycatcherswere found along the Sacramento River near Greenhaven on 4/12, at CRP on 4/21, at Yolo Grasslands Park on 4/26, in Davis on 5/9, at Paradise Beach on 5/11, and at E Portal Park in Sacramento on 5/13. Gray Flycatchers were at the Sacramento Bypass on 5/3 and 5/13, Paradise Beach on 5/11, and Sailor Bar on 5/16. A hatch year Say’s Phoebe at Bobcat Ranch west of Winters on 5/17 may have come from a nest nearby.

A Bell’s Vireo at the Bufferlands on 4/29-30 raised hopes that it might try to nest, but was it was not subsequently found. A Bell’s Vireo was found at YBWA (Putah Creek Sinks) on 5/9 where nesting was attempted in 2010 and 2011. A Plumbeous Vireo was reported at Willowbank Ditch in Davis on 5/9. Brown Creepers nested along Putah Creek upstream of Winters were they have in previous years and a late Pacific Wrenwas at CRP on 4/21. A Northern Parula was singing at the Point along the River Walk at CRP on 5/11 and a Green-tailed Towhee was found on 5/7 at the Sacramento Bypass. There were multiple Brewer’s Sparrows reports, with the first at Don Nottoli Park in Elk Grove on 4/2-17 and at the surprisingly late date of 5/28; additional reports include Michigan Bar Rd on 4/6-7 and 4/24, and Meiss Rd from 4/13-23, with an impressive six on 4/23. Vesper Sparrows were found on Michigan Bar Rd on 4/7 and Meiss Rd on 4/13 and 4/27, with multiple Grasshopper Sparrows also found on Meiss Rd (photos). A Black-throated Sparrow was reported in Lincoln on 5/3, White-throated Sparrow reports were particularly numerous, the continuing Harris’s Sparrow in N Davis was last seen on 4/9, and two male Lark Buntings were reported on Yolo County Rd 38 southeast of Davis on 5/6. Both Red-breasted Nuthatches and Pine Siskinslingered well into May at multiple locations and a Red Crossbill was reported in Davis on 4/29.

The Sacramento Area is roughly defined as lying between Hwy 20 to the north, Hwy 12 to the south, and the 1000’ contour to the east and west, plus all of Sacramento and Yolo Counties. Many reports first appeared on the Central Valley Bird Club Listserve and eBird. It is impossible to list everyone, but I want to thank the following for their reports: Ashley Casey, Jenner Davidson, Scott Dietrich, Chris Dunford, Andy Engilis, Gil Ewing, Tim Fitzer, Claire Gallagher, Steve Hampton, Cliff Hawley, Dan Kopp, Jeri Langham, Mark Martucci, Ron Melcer, Frances Oliver, Ed Pandolfino, Michael Perrone, Linda Pittman, Jim Rowoth, John Sterling, Stefanie Stewart, Kevin Thomas, John Trochet, Daniel Welsh, and Hillary White. Thanks to everyone for their reports—without them, this column would not be possible.

March 2013

This was another atypically dry month, but with some excellent waterfowl reports.  A Tule (also known as Taiga) Greater White-fronted Goose was among a group of the expected Pacific Greater White-fronted Geese along Woodbridge Rd on 3/22.  This distinctive sub-species is rarely seen away from the Sacramento NWR complex.  An interesting pictorial on Tule Geese may be found here .  The male Eurasian Green-winged Teal reported at the Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area (YBWA) on 2/27 continued through at least 3/4 (eBird checklist).  More than 350 Greater Scaup on the San Joaquin River near Sherman Island on 3/10 exceeds last month’s impressive totals.   One male and two female Surf Scoters were found on the Sacramento River upstream of Sherman Island on 3/9; seven males were on the San Joaquin River from Sherman Island Levee Rd on 3/10, with four continuing on 3/12. 

An adult Northern Goshawk flying low and calling over Davis near Covell and F St on 3/24 was an exceptional observation on the flats of the Valley.  The good season forRough-legged Hawks continued with one at Cosumnes River Preserve (CRP) on 3/27 and with 3/30 producing one on Latrobe Rd and two or three on Meiss Rd. 

The most notable shorebird report of the month was a Snowy Plover found at the Woodland WTP on 3/14.  An early Whimbrel was at the Sacramento Reg. WTP on 3/7 and continued for several days among Long-billed Curlews. An impressive 72Mew Gulls were found at Sherman Island on 3/10.  An adult Western Gull was near the Gristmill access to the American River Parkway (ARP) on 3/17.  This species is regular at Sherman Island, but six there on 3/10 was an unexpectedly high total.  Two adult Glaucous Gulls were at YBWA on 3/2, with a single adult on 3/4. 

Two Common Poorwills calling at the lower end of Latrobe Rd in Sacramento County near Stone House Rd were detected on the early date of 3/30.  The Red-naped Sapsucker found along Hwy 128 from 2/13-20, just east of the Hwy 128 bridge below Monticello Dam, was seen again on 3/11.  A Townsend’s Solitaire in a backyard across the American River from Gristmill on 3/24 might be the same bird that was detected at Gristmill from 2/2-13.  A Chestnut-collared Longspur at CRP on 3/23 accounted for the only longspur report in the area.  The continuing Harris’s Sparrowin N Davis was seen on 3/10, though not again for the rest of the month, but it did turn up again in April.  Four Red Crossbills at McKinley Park on 3/7 continued this excellent season for the species around Sacramento.  On 3/11, four Evening Grosbeaks were found in Orangevale, with two continuing on 3/19.  

The Sacramento Area is roughly defined as lying between Hwy 20 to the north, Hwy 12 to the south, and the 1000’ contour to the east and west, plus all of Sacramento and Yolo Counties. Many reports first appeared on the Central Valley Bird Club Listserve and eBird. It is impossible to list everyone, but I want to thank the following for their reports:  Ben Abramovitz, Kari Bauer, Dan Brown, Chris Dunford, Gil Ewing, Steve Hampton, Ed Harper, Cliff Hawley, Dan Kopp, Jeri Langham, Frances Oliver, Ed Pandolfino, Michael Perrone, Steve Scott, Craig Swolgaard, John Trochet, and David Yee. Thanks to everyone for their reports—without them, this column would not be possible.

February 2013

A winter season that began with a very wet December transitioned into the driest January and February on record.  Impressive waterfowl reports included at least 30,000 geese at Cosumnes River Preserve.  Large numbers of Greater White-fronted Geese and, more recently, Snow Geese were not regular at this site less than ten years ago.  Five Eurasian Wigeons were unusual for the Ione WTP on 2/17, and one was not too far away along Hwy 104 in Sacramento County, just west of the Amador County line on 2/5.  A male Eurasian Green-winged Teal was reported at Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area (YBWA) on 2/27.  More than 200 Greater Scaup on the San Joaquin River near Sherman Island on 2/2 are notable because these Delta waters are the only place this species regularly occurs in the Sacramento area.  Up to three Red-breasted Mergansers were found on Lake Camanche, with the first detected on 2/8; aPacific Loon and at least four Common Loons were also found there on 2/8.  The continuing Red-throated Loon was on Folsom Lake near the Dam through at least 2/3, and the Pacific Loon on Lake Natoma continued through at least 2/5. 

The first Swainson’s Hawk reported in the area was near Dixon on 2/13, but sightings did not become regular in the Sacramento area until a month later.  Perhaps owing to the dry conditions, there was a surprising absence of large flocks of Black-bellied Plovers this month and last.  An adult Lesser Black-backed Gull was found at the Woodbridge Rd Crane Reserve on 2/22-24.  An adult Western Gull was found at Ancil Hoffman Park along the American River Parkway (ARP) on 2/3-6.  This species is regular at Sherman Island, where there were several reports, and somewhat regular at the Yolo Landfill and Davis WTP, where both an adult and a 1st cycle were found sporadically throughout the month.  A 1st cycle Glaucous Gull was at the YBWA on 2/16, and there were several reports at and around the Davis WTP.  A Common Poorwill was an interesting winter find along Fremont Mine Rd near Amador City on 2/26.  A Red-naped Sapsucker found along Hwy 128 from 2/13-20, just east of the Hwy 128 bridge below Monticello Dam, was an exceptionally long-overdue first county record for Yolo (eBird checklist).

Among the notable songbird reports was a Mountain Chickadee in Sacramento near W and 22nd Streets on 2/12.  Other birds of interest include the Winter Wren near Lake Solano continuing through at least 2/18, a Townsend’s Solitaire (eBird checklist) near the Gristmill Access to the ARP from 2/2-13, the continuing Sage Thrasher NE of Ione on Tonzi Rd through at least 2/8, a Palm Warbler (eBird checklist) south of Rio Vista at Sandy Beach Park from 2/22 into March, the continuing Harris’s Sparrow in N Davis into March, and four Red Crossbills at Ancil Hoffman Park on 2/28.

An excellent set of winter bird photos by Manfred Kusch is here.

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Townsend's Solitaire near the Gristmill access to Am. River Pkwy, 3 Feb '13. Photo by Chris Conard.

The Sacramento Area is roughly defined as lying between Hwy 20 to the north, Hwy 12 to the south, and the 1000’ contour to the east and west, plus all of Sacramento and Yolo Counties. Many reports first appeared on the Central Valley Bird Club Listserve and eBird. It is impossible to list everyone, but I want to thank the following for their reports:  Jan Allen, Chris Dunford, Todd Easterla, Gil Ewing, Nancy Gronert, Steve Hampton, Ed Harper, Cliff Hawley, Karen Kienitz, Dan Kopp, Jeri Langham, John Luther, Don Marsh, Frances Oliver, Ed Pandolfino, Michael Perrone, Linda Pittman, Jim Rowoth, Dan Sandri, John Sterling, Tim Steurer, John Trochet, Dan Williams, and David Yee. Thanks to everyone for their reports—without them, this column would not be possible.

January 2013

After a very wet December, January was dry, clear, and often cold. It appears the lack of rain encouraged many reports from the field. One to two Trumpeter Swans were reported in Sutter County at Hwy 70 near Striplin Rd from 1/13-17. Brant are very rare in the Central Valley, so two reports created much interest: Staten Island from 1/18-19 and Colusa NWR from 1/19-25. On 1/30, a river otter captured a swimming Wood Duck at Cosumnes River Preserve (CRP) by diving and grabbing it from beneath the water’s surface. Distinctive male Eurasian Green-winged Teal were found south of Dixon on Creed Rd on 1/11-12 and at Colusa NWR on 1/14. Two male Surf Scoters were seen in the San Joaquin River from Sherman Island on 1/29. A female Red-breasted Merganser continued into the new year at Greenhaven Lake, and a first county record was found for Sutter County on 1/8-10 at Hwy 70 and Marcum Rd (the same site as the continuing Horned Grebe). A Pacific Loon was on Lake Natoma near Negro Bar along with a Common Loon from 1/11 into February, and the Red-throated Loon near the Folsom Lake Dam persisted from October.

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Pacific Loon, 26 Jan 13, Lk Natoma, by Ray Rozema

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Pacific Loon and Common Loon, by Ray Rozema

An American White Pelican photographed at Bridgeway Island Pond in West Sacramento on 1/8 proved to have been banded in Idaho as a youngster in 2012. Rough-legged Hawk reports continued in good numbers throughout the area. A Pacific Golden-Plover was found at Stone Lakes NWR on 1/4 and two Western Sandpipers along Arno Rd near Galt on 1/1 were unusual for the winter. While regular in our area closer to the Delta, a Mew Gull found on 1/21-29 in Yuba City along the Feather River was a first for Sutter County. An adult Iceland Gull (a state review species) was reported and photographed at the David WTP on 1/19-22. A Lesser Black-backed Gull, continuing from December, was found at the Davis WTP on 1/9, and a Slaty-backed Gull (another state review species) was reported at the same location on 1/27.

A Long-eared Owl was at the Yolo Grasslands Park from 1/12-14 and another was found at the Valensin portion of CRP on 1/30. Short-eared Owls were widely reported, with up to 8 along Riley Rd near Galt, and multiples from Yolo County Rd 30, and near Brewer and Nicholas Rds in Sutter County. A Yellow-bellied Sapsucker was found on 1/27 and continued into February near Bear River High School, Lake of the Pines. On 1/3, single Red-naped Sapsuckers were reported from Rosemont and from Sailor Bar. A Hairy Woodpecker was a rare find for Sacramento County near Lake Natoma off of Young Wo Circle on 1/7.

The first winter Northern Shrike found in Sutter County off Pacific Ave near Striplin Rd on 12/27 continued through at least 1/2; another was reported on Phillip Road in Placer County on 1/2, while yet another was reported from the Colusa NWR on 1/14. Other interesting reports include an impressive 23 Red-breasted Nuthatches found on the UCD Winter Bird Count on 1/23, the Winter Wren near Lake Solano continuing into February, a Townsend’s Solitaire at Nimbus Flat (Lake Natoma) on 1/7-8, Sage Thrashers from Putah Creek near UCD on 1/7 and Tonzi Rd NE of Ione on 1/28 into February. A Palm Warbler was found during a survey at Prairie City OHV Park on 1/3, and a Red Fox Sparrow was at the Valensin portion of CRP on 1/30. The north Davis Harris’s Sparrow continued through at least 1/10, and the bird found in Fairfield on 12/17 continued into February. Red Crossbills continued at the south end of the Sacramento City Cemetery through at least 1/7, and the male Common Redpoll found on 12/31 continued at a feeder near Lincoln only through 1/1.

The Sacramento Area is roughly defined as lying between Hwy 20 to the north, Hwy 12 to the south, and the 1000’ contour to the east and west, plus all of Sacramento and Yolo Counties. Many reports first appeared on the Central Valley Bird Club Listserve and eBird. It is impossible to list everyone, but I want to thank the following for their reports: Steve Abbott, Murray Berner, Kathy Blankenship, Summer Brasuel, Dan Brown, Rudy Darling, Matthew Dodder, Todd Easterla, Gil Ewing, Claire Gallagher, Frank Gray, Steve Hampton, Ed Harper, Cliff Hawley, Dan Kopp, Jeri Langham, Jim Laughlin, John Luther, Brian O’Connor, Ed Pandolfino, Kathy Parker, Linda Pittman, Don Schmoldt, Dan Skalos, Gwen Starrett, John Sterling, Craig Swolgaard, Dan Tankersley, John Trochet, Charley Walker, Bruce Webb, Ed Whisler, and John York. Thanks to everyone for their reports—without them, this column would not be possible.

December 2012

Nearly six inches of rain fell on Sacramento (170% of average), so it’s appropriate that many of the interesting records were waterfowl. Last winter’s Falcated Duck returned to the Colusa NWR on 12/2, but was last reported there on 12/19; it was apparently at the Sacramento NWR on 12/30. A male Surf Scoter was on the San Joaquin River near Sherman Island on 12/1. A female Long-tailed Duck was at the Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area (YBWA) on 12/14-15. Female Red-breasted Merganserswere found among large flocks of Common Mergansers at Laguna West on 12/24 and Greenhaven Lake on 12/30, with at least one of the latter continuing into January, along with up to 1,200 Common Mergansers.

The Red-throated Loonnear Beal’s Point since October continued into January. Rare away from large reservoirs, three Horned Grebes were at the Lincoln WTP from 12/4-27, and one was in Sutter County at Marcum Rd and Hwy 70 from 12/23 into January. The hatch-year Brown Pelican at Riverlake in the Pocket Area of South Sacramento continued through at least 12/12. A Rough-legged Hawk was just east of Rancho Seco on Hwy 104 on 12/7, and four were south of Payen Road on 12/30.

A Pacific Golden-Plover was along Rd 104, near the Yolo Landfill, on 12/25--perhaps the same bird found on the 12/23 Sacramento CBC. Mountain Plovers were regularly reported from Robinson Rd south of Dixon, with a high of 90. Two Marbled Godwits were found on the 12/23 Sacramento CBC, and a Wilson’s Phalarope, very rare in winter, was on private land during the 12/16 Putah Creek CBC. An adult Lesser Black-backed Gull was near the Yolo Landfill on 12/8 and continued throughout the month; another was at Beal’s Point, Folsom Lake, on 12/28. One-two Glaucous Gulls were near the Yolo Landfill throughout the month.

A Yellow-bellied Sapsucker was found along Quail Canyon Rd, off Pleasants Valley Rd, on 12/16. A Western Kingbird along Yolo Rd 105 near Rd 30 on 12/7 had apparently been seen there for a few days. A juvenile Northern Shrikewas found in Sutter County off Pacific Ave near Striplin Rd on 12/27, with sporadic reports into the new year. The Winter Wren near Lake Solano and Las Positas Rd continued into January. A Grasshopper Sparrow, rare in winter, was found at the top of Las Positas Rd on 12/16, and a Red Fox Sparrow was nearby at Fishing Access #3 on the same date. The north Davis Harris’s Sparrowcontinued into January, and another was found in Fairfield on 12/17, near Business Center Dr and Green Valley Rd, also continuing into the new year.

One of the year’s highlights was a male Common Redpoll coming to a feeder on 12/31. Just the fourth Central Valley record, it was seen by many for one more day before moving on- see photos below. Pine Siskins were widely reported in high numbers. Red Crossbills were found at the Gristmill access of ARP on 12/1, with three at Upper Sunrise (ARP) on 12/30, and a high of seven at the Odd Fellows/Old City Cemetery from 12/10 into January. Evening Grosbeak reports continued from last month, with one at the Sacramento City Cemetery on 12/8, two in Davis on 12/9, 12 in Folsom on 12/12, and 15 in Folsom on 12/16.

We feature photos of some of the highlight birds on the Sacramento Audubon Web site.

The Sacramento Area is roughly defined as lying between Hwy 20 to the north, Hwy 12 to the south, and the 1000’ contour to the east and west, plus all of Sacramento and Yolo Counties. Many reports first appeared on the Central Valley Bird Club Listserve and eBird. It is impossible to list everyone, but I want to thank the following for their reports: Steve Abbott, Ben Abramowitz, Dan Airola, Mark Cudney, Al DeMartini, Chris Dunford, Jon Dunn, Todd Easterla, Leo Edson, Tim Fitzer, Claire Gallagher, Cory Gregory, Kevin Guse, Steve Hampton, Ed Harper, Cliff Hawley, Dan Kopp, Jeri Langham, Jim Laughlin, Don Marsh, Ed Pandolfino, Linda Pittman, Jim Rowoth, Don Schmoldt, Ken Schneider, Susan Schneider, John Sterling, Michael Strom, Dan Tankersley, John Trochet, Bobby Walsh, Bruce Webb, Ed Whisler, and John York. Thanks to everyone for their reports—without them, this column would not be possible.

November 2012

This year has seen by far the most Long-eared Owl reports of any in the 2000s and this month added its share of records. Three to four were found on a roost in the Tall Forest of Cosumnes River Preserve (CRP) on 11/22 and one was calling near CRP’s Orr Forest on 11/25. Another was found during the Central Valley Birding Symposium at the Stockton Rural Cemetery on 11/17. A Northern Saw-whet Owl was at the same location on 11/12. Both species are very hard to find in winter, and many more certainly escape detection.

On 11/6, a “Brewer’s Duck” (Gadwall X Mallard) was found at the Woodland WTP (WWTP) along with the Surf Scoter continuing from 10/30. A female White-winged Scoter was at Beals Point, Folsom Lake, on 11/13; the Red-throated Loon continued nearby in Sacramento County waters on 11/14. A hatch-year Brown Pelican was seen and photographed at Riverlake in the Pocket Area of South Sacramento on 11/22. Two Semipalmated Plovers were found mid-month at the Farmers Central Pond in Woodland, a Marbled Godwit, perhaps continuing from last month, was found at Yolo Wildlife Area on 11/18-25, and a very late Baird’s Sandpiper was at the WWTP on 11/1. A Franklin’s Gull was at WWTP on 11/15 and an adult Glaucous Gull was at the Yolo County Landfill on 11/25.

A Greater Roadrunner was on the Valley floor, seen in both Yolo and Colusa Counties as it crossed County Line Rd near John’s School Rd, on 11/10. Songbird highlights included juvenile Northern Shrikes on private property along Nicolas Rd near Lincoln on 11/2 and at the Fremont Weir on 11/3. A Cassin’s Vireo at CRP along the River Walk on 11/10 was a nice find for late in the season as was a Nashville Warbler at the Orr Forest on 11/25; a Green-tailed Towhee was found north of the Tall Forest on 11/3. An (eastern) Winter Wren was found, photographed, and recorded on the Yolo County side of Lake Solano near Positas Rd from 11/20-27. Vesper Sparrows continue along Hwy 128 west of Winters, with two at “Vesper Sparrow Corner” on 11/22. The Harris’s Sparrow returning from last winter to North Davis continued through the month. Excellent diversity and numbers of finches were reported, with a male Cassin’s Finch at the UCD Arboretum on 11/7 along with four Red Crossbills in the same area, widespread Pine Siskin reports, including an impressive 200+ at the Old Sacramento City Cemetery on 11/24, and continuing Evening Grosbeak reports from Davis on 11/18 and 11/27, Granite Bay on 11/22, and Sacramento on 11/22-23.

The Sacramento Area is roughly defined as lying between Hwy 20 to the north, Hwy 12 to the south, and the 1000’ contour to the east and west, plus all of Sacramento and Yolo Counties. Many reports first appeared on the Central Valley Bird Club Listserve and eBird. It is impossible to list everyone, but I want to thank the following for their reports: Brent Campos, Daryl Coldren, Farley Cross, Scott Dietrich, Chris Dunford, Jon Dunn, Andy Engilis, Jr., Rob Fowler, Claire Gallagher, Cory Gregory, Steve Hampton, Ed Harper, Dan Kopp, Gordon Lane, Jeri Langham, Eric LoPresti , Joseph Morlan, Michael Perrone, Jim Rowoth, John Sterling, Dan Tankersley, John Trochet, and Bruce Webb. Thanks to everyone for their reports—without them, this column would not be possible.

October 2012

This October had a nice mix of lingering migrants and winter arrivals. The invasion of northern/montane species continued, with high numbers of Red-breasted Nuthatches and Pine Siskins. Evening Grosbeaks were found in the Rancho Cordova area on 10/23 and 10/28, as well as in Esparto, where ten were reported on 10/29. In response to unsettled weather, Violet-green Swallows, which are not regular on the Valley floor, were widely reported mid-month, with a high of 250 at the Woodland WTP (WWTP) on 10/12.

Among the water bird highlights was a hatch-year Surf Scoter at WWTP on 10/30-11/2. Folsom Lake produced two uncommon loon reports, with a Red-throated Loon off Beals Point on 10/30 and a Pacific Loonnear the Granite Bay launch on 10/31. A Red-necked Grebe at Rancho Seco on 10/16 could not be refound despite several attempts. Two Baird’s Sandpipers were found at the Lincoln’s WTP on the somewhat late date of 10/5, and Pectoral Sandpipers were reported from Cosumnes River Preserve (CRP), with four on 10/4, and Yolo Wildlife Area (YWA), with two on 10/4. A Marbled Godwit was photographed at YWA on 10/28, as was a hatch-year Franklin’s Gull (eBird checklist), which continued through 10/31. A hatch-year Sabine’s Gull was found at the WWTP on 10/12-16 (eBird checklists with photos by Claire Gallagher and Steve Hampton).

Among the songbird highlights, most notable were a (eastern) Winter Wren at the Orr Forest of CRP on 10/11 (probably the same bird that wintered there last season), a Gray Catbird at Bobelaine in Sutter County on 10/19-20, a Brown Thrashermist-netted and banded at Stone Lakes NWR on 10/3 (the second for this location, with one netted at the same spot on 7/10/2008), a Palm Warbler at Azevedo Park in Rocklin on 10/28, a hatch-year American Redstartin Sacramento near 31st and B Streets on 10/7, and a Clay-colored Sparrow on Chadbourne Rd in Fairfield on 10/22. Other interesting reports include a Harlan’s Red-tailed Hawk at Colusa NWR on 10/16, a Rough-legged Hawk seen over Elk Grove Park on 10/30, a Common Poorwill at the Bufferlands on 10/7, two Hammond’s Flycatchers at Putah Creek Fishing Access #1 on 10/14, a very late Western Kingbird on Rd 27 northwest of Davis on 10/19, a Sage Thrasher at the Valensin portion of CRP on 10/18, up to ten Chipping Sparrows from various Yolo County locations, a Grasshopper Sparrowat the Blue Heron Trail (Stone Lakes NWR) on 10/5, and the Harris’s Sparrow in north Davis returning for another season on 10/26. Manfred Kusch put together an excellent set of birds bathing in Putah Creek between Davis and Winters (photos).

The Sacramento Area is roughly defined as lying between Hwy 20 to the north, Hwy 12 to the south, and the 1000’ contour to the east and west, plus all of Sacramento and Yolo Counties. Many reports first appeared on the Central Valley Bird Club Listserve and eBird. It is impossible to list everyone, but I want to thank the following for their reports: Bruce Deuel, Scott Dietrich, Chris Dunford, Gil Ewing, Claire Gallagher, Cory, Gregory, Steve Hampton, Ed Harper, Joanne Katanic, Dan Kopp, Manfred Kusch, Jeri Langham, John Luther, Ron Melcer, Ed Pandolfino, Michael Perrone, Ron Pozzi, Will Rockey, Steve Rottenborn, Mary Schiedt, Don Schmoldt, John Sterling, Michael Strom, Danny Swicegood, Dan Tankersley, John Trochet, and Sally Walters. Thanks to everyone for their reports—without them, this column would not be possible.

September 2012

Interesting songbird reports were widespread, with some excellent highlights, especially along Putah Creek near UC Davis between Hopkins and Pedrick Rds, and Babel Slough south of West Sacramento. Red Crossbills made an appearance in the Davis area, with a high of 20 along Putah Creek on 9/2; an invasion of montane birds may be coming, with widespread reports and high numbers of Red-breasted Nuthatches and an influx of Pine Siskins.

Typically eastern songbirds are much-sough prizes and this September proved richer than most. Least Flycatcher reports came from Yolo Grasslands Park on 9/2-3 and Babel Slough on 9/8. A Great Crested Flycatcher (a state review species) was reported from Cosumnes River Preserve (CRP) on 9/14. A wren was photographed at Babel Slough on 9/23 showing characteristics of an (eastern) Winter Wren (a state review species; since the 2010 split, the western birds have been called Pacific Wrens). Excellent warbler reports included Tennessee Warblers reported from a private yard in Carmichael on 9/9, Putah Creek from 9/16-18, and Babel Slough on 9/23 and 9/26; a Northern Parula near Freeport on 9/3; and, most notable, Yolo’s first Bay-breasted Warbler at Babel Slough on 9/19. An impressive five Blackpoll Warblers were found in the area, including Putah Creek between Davis and Winters on 9/11, Babel Slough and Lagoon Valley on 9/14, Lake Solano on 9/16, and the Sacramento City Cemetery on 9/25.

Blackpoll Warbler, Photos by Manfred Kusch, 11 Sept 2012

Putah Creek between Davis and Winters.

A Yellow-breasted Chat was found at Bobelaine on 9/8 and another was regularly detected along Putah Creek for the first week of September.  A hatch-year Orchard Oriole was another Yolo County first, found along Putah Creek near UCD, often in the vicinity of Hooded Orioles, from 9/11-18.

Other interesting reports included a Brown Pelican at the Yolo Wildlife Area (YWA) on 9/7; a continuing Least Bittern at Mather Lake on 9/1; an apparent American Avocet X Black-necked Stilt hybrid at the Davis Wetlands early in the month; a Solitary Sandpiper at YWA on 9/17; a juvenile Sanderling at the Granite Bay launch at Folsom Lake on 9/11; a Yellow-billed Cuckoo heard along Putah Creek on 9/1; four Greater Roadrunners along Sand Creek Rd west of Arbuckle on 9/1; a hatch-year Allen’s Hummingbird banded along Putah Creek between Davis and Winters on 9/20 and a hatch-year Calliope Hummingbird in north Davis on 9/5; Lewis’s Woodpecker reports on the Valley floor, with up to four from Putah Creek near UCD on 9/14-16 and a juvenile at the Sacramento County Bufferlands on 9/27 (a first of the site); a male Yellow-shafted Northern Flicker at Reichmuth Park on 9/25; a Green-tailed Towhee in north Davis on 9/22; a Brewer’s Sparrow at the YWA on 9/23; and a Large-billed (montane) Fox Sparrow at CRP on 9/14.

The Sacramento Area is roughly defined as lying between Hwy 20 to the north, Hwy 12 to the south, and the 1000’ contour to the east and west, plus all of Sacramento and Yolo Counties. Many reports first appeared on the Central Valley Bird Club Listserve (cvbirds.org) and eBird. It is impossible to list everyone, but I want to thank the following for their reports: Murray Berner, Terry Colborn, Chris Dunford, Todd Easterla, Gil Ewing, Steve Hampton, Cliff Hawley, Pat Hildreth, Dan Kopp, Manfred Kusch, Jeri Langham, Phil Lutz, Michael Park, Michael Perrone, Linda Pittman, Ron Pozzi, John Sterling, Michael Strom, John Trochet, Amy Welsh and Daniel Welsh. Thanks to everyone for their reports—without them, this column would not be possible.

August 2012

Widespread reports of common migrant shorebirds and songbirds accounted for most of the activity this month. Several rare shorebird reports were most notable, including two Snowy Plovers in Colusa County along Husted Rd south of Hwy 20 on 8/26, a Willet at Sherman Island in southwestern Sacramento County on 8/11, four juvenile Red Knots at the Yolo Wildlife Area (YWA) on 8/26, a Sanderling at the Sacramento Reg. WTP on 8/4, and a juvenile Semipalmated Sandpiper at the Farmers Central Pond near the Woodland WTP on 8/14-15. An adult male Ruff at the Woodland WTP molting out of breeding plumage on 8/1-2 may have been the same bird as the Ruff found at YWA on 8/26-27.

Sanderling with Least Sandpiper at Sac Reg WTP.

Sanderling, Aug 4, at Sac Reg WTP. Photos by Chris Conard

An immature Hooded Merganser at the Davis Wetlands (DW) on 8/31 is consistent with the continuing expansion of this species in the region.  Brown Pelican reports continued, with one along the Sacramento River north of the Rio Vista Bridge on 8/11, and three the same day in the San Joaquin River off of Sherman Island.  Additional reports came from DW on 8/25 and YWA on 8/27-30.  Up to two Least Bitterns were detected at Mather Lake from 7/4 through the end of August.  Large communal roosts of White-tailed Kites were reported, with 250 in Elverta in early August and up to 128 in Wilton in late August.

A Long-eared Owl was found roosting in willows along with numerous Barn Owls at Mather Lake on 8/5-26.  An immature/female Calliope Hummingbird was reported in East Sacramento on 8/22, and another was found at the Colusa NWR on 8/26.  Interesting songbird reports from Cosumnes River Preserve included an early Ruby-crowned Kinglet on 8/19, a large grayish Hermit Thrush typical of breeders in the western mountains on the early date of 8/25, and a “ratty” Northern Parula near the visitor center on 8/11.  An early White-crowned Sparrow was found along Putah Creek near Pedrick Rd on 8/30.  Immature male Summer Tanagers were reported on 8/10-25 along Putah Creek between Winters and Davis, and in North Davis on 8/15.  A gorgeous male Indigo Bunting (see below) at the Sacramento Bypass off Yolo County Rd 126 on 8/4-19 was seen by many, and female and juvenile buntings in the area suggest that it may have bred locally—possibly with a female Lazuli Bunting.

The Sacramento Area is roughly defined as lying between Hwy 20 to the north, Hwy 12 to the south, and the 1000’ contour to the east and west, plus all of Sacramento and Yolo Counties are included. Many reports first appeared on the Central Valley Bird Club Listserve and eBird. It is impossible to list everyone, but I want to thank the following for their reports:  Dan Airola, Bruce Deuel, Todd Easterla, Leo Edson, Gil Ewing, Maureen Geiger, Kevin Guse, Steve Hampton, Ed Harper, Keiller Kyle, Dan Kopp, Manfred Kusch, Jeri Langham, Phil Lutz, Frances Oliver, Michael Perrone, Linda Pittman, Will Rockey, Jim Rowoth, Don Schmoldt, John Sterling, John Trochet, and Ed Whisler. Thanks to everyone for their reports—without them, this column would not be possible.

June - July 2012

Brown Pelicans were found in unprecedented numbers in the Sacramento area this summer. In addition to the individual that has been in West Sacramento since 8/24/11, two others were at the Port of Sacramento on 7/14. On 7/6, two Brown Pelicans flew over Rd 103 and were later found at the Yolo Landfill on Rd 28H. One was found at the Yolo Wildlife Area (YWA) on 7/15 and 7/21. At Sherman Lake Marina in southwestern Sacramento County, one was found on 7/8 and continued in the vicinity, with sporadic reports along W Sherman Island Rd through the end of the month. Aside from the continuing bird in West Sacramento, all of the Brown Pelicans reported have been hatch-year birds. Prior to 2004 there was only one record for Sacramento County—the first, in 1976, was only the second for the entire Central Valley!—and the first Yolo County record wasn’t discovered until 2008. The recent influx is likely due to a combination of a high population that rebounded since the banning of DDT and periodic shortages of anchovy and sardine schools close to shore, such as have been reported this year. The inexperienced juveniles of this almost exclusively coastal species are far more likely to turn up inland looking for food than are adults.

Gil Ewing's eBird checklist and Brown Pelican photo: eBird checklist

Brown Pelican reports in eBird.

Out of season Horned Grebes were found at the Davis Wetlands on 6/3-10 and at Cosumnes River Preserve (CRP) on 6/10. Both birds appeared to be molting out of breeding plumage. A Least Bittern was detected at Mather Lake from 7/4 into August. Two Willets were found in rice fields at CRP on 6/27. Two Marbled Godwits were along E Levee Rd in Natomas on 7/1 and another two were at CRP along Desmond Rd on 7/13; up to 50 were found in Yolo County on 7/21 (29 at YWA and 21 at the Yolo Landfill Pond), where they are far more regular. A juvenile Semipalmated Sandpiper was found at the Woodland WTP on 7/29. On 6/22 there were 800 California Gulls and a first-cycle Glaucous-winged Gull at the Davis WTP. A near-adult Herring Gull summered nearby. One to two Western Gulls were reported at Sherman Island from 7/8 onwards. Least Terns nested for the fifth straight year at the Sacramento Reg. WTP, but failed to fledge young. Two chicks were detected on 7/19, but only one was seen on 7/22, and after 7/24 there were no additional sightings. The adults continued at the site into August. A single adult was seen along E Levee Rd in Natomas on 7/4.

Two adult male Allen’s Hummingbirds were captured and banded along Putah Creek upstream of Davis on 6/28. This species has proven to be rare but regular, though very difficult and often impossible to separate from the much more common Rufous Hummingbird. An immature male Calliope Hummingbird was found in Fair Oaks on 7/31. A Gray Catbird was found singing in Solano County along Putah Creek between Davis and Winters on 6/19. A very ratty hatch-year Northern Parula was found near the Tall Forest at CRP on 7/21, leading to speculation about the origin of this bird; was there a nest nearby? A Northern Waterthrush was found in Colusa County on 6/7 along Sand Creek Rd. Breeding by Lazuli Buntings was confirmed at CRP and the Sacramento Co. Bufferlands, where they only breed sporadically, and Dark-eyed Juncos were detected breeding in at least two sites at CRP, as they have since first detected in 2000.

The Sacramento Area is roughly defined as lying between Hwy 20 to the north, Hwy 12 to the south, and the 1000’ contour to the east and west, plus all of Sacramento and Yolo Counties are included. Many reports first appeared on the Central Valley Bird Club Listserve and eBird. It is impossible to list everyone, but I want to thank the following for their reports: Dan Airola, Gil Ewing, Brandi Gartland, Maureen Geiger, Cory Gregory, Steve Hampton, Ed Harper, Dan Kopp, Manfred Kusch, Jeri Langham, Phil Lutz, Linda Pittman, Dennis Pleau, Jim Rowoth, John Sterling, John Trochet, Magill Weber, Dan Welsh, and Ed Whisler. Thanks to everyone for their reports—without them, this column would not be possible.

April - May 2012

It is impossible to include all the notable reports from two of the most active months in the avian calendar, with lingering wintering birds, the arrival of summering birds, and vast numbers of purely transitory migrants. Perhaps the most notable theme for this year’s spring migration was the discovery of several sparrows rare to our area. Michigan Bar Rd in eastern Sacramento County produced reports of two Brewer’s Sparrows on 4/29 and one on 5/12, plus a Black-throated Sparrow on 5/9 along and a male Lark Bunting on 5/13. Nearby Meiss Rd produced up to four Brewer’s Sparrows from 5/6-12, as well as another Black-throated Sparrow on 5/9 (photos by Linda Pittman). Meiss Rd also hosted at least two pairs of Grasshopper Sparrows for which the road is well known, and Michigan Bar Rd produced steady Lawrence’s  Goldfinch reports. Blue Ridge to the northwest of Vacaville hosted one or more Black-chinned Sparrows from 5/17-28. The Harris’s Sparrow in north Davis continued through at least 4/7.

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Crested Caracara - photo by Sarah Mayhew

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Crested Caracara - photo by Sarah Mayhew

Most exciting were two finds that are first records for the Central Valley. The discovery of a Crested Caracara southeast of Davis along Mace Blvd on 4/16 was a major find for the area, with many observers seeing the bird through 4/17, and at least one report on 4/21. Perhaps even more out of place was a Fork-tailed Storm-Petrel found at the Yolo Landfill Pond on Rd 28H. It was seen by many on the afternoon and evening of 4/28 (Photos by Marcel Holyoak). (Additional photos and details of Yolo County rarities are here: http://www.tertial.us/yolobirds/yolorare.htm)

Sacramento County’s first breeding record of Hooded Mergansers was documented last year at Cosumnes River Preserve (CRP) with the discovery of a female with young; this year a female was found incubating eggs in a Wood Duck box.

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Female Hooded Merganser sitting on eggs - photo by Jim Dunn.

Sacramento County’s first breeding record of Hooded Mergansers was documented last year at Cosumnes River Preserve (CRP) with the discovery of a female with young; this year a female was found incubating eggs in a Wood Duck box. For the third year in a row, California Gulls have attempted to nest at the Davis WTP, but this year only three pairs have been detected. Other interesting reports include a late Common Loon on the American River Parkway near Upper Sunrise that was found on 6/10 downstream by Howe Ave, a Red-necked Grebe at the Lincoln WTP on 5/9, the continuing Brown Pelican in West Sacramento into early June and another over Mather Lake in Rancho Cordova on 4/22, four Willets at CRP on 4/30, a Ruff at CRP on 4/14-22 and another at the Yolo Wildlife Area on 4/23, the continuing Lesser Black-backed Gull at Folsom Lake (Granite Bay) on 4/3, a late near-adult Glaucous Gull at the Yolo Landfill on 4/27, and a Least Tern found at the Sacramento Reg. WTP on 5/21 where they have nested for the past four years.

A calling Northern Pygmy-Owl at the Michigan Bar Bridge on 4/7 was one of few records for Sacramento County. A Lesser Nighthawk found on South Shingle Rd on 5/9, just east of Michigan Bar Rd, may be the first for El Dorado County, though they are regular on nearby Meiss Rd. Two Steller’s Jays were found at Cold Canyon Reserve on 5/28, and a Brown Creeper was nest building downstream of Lake Solano on 5/16. A Townsend’s Solitaire was found on Rayhouse Rd on 4/23 and impressive movements of Swainson’s Thrushes were reported along Putah Creek and at CRP, with a high of 50-60 just west of UC Davis along Putah Creek on 5/9. A Northern Parula was found along Putah Creek between Davis and Winters on 5/30. Yellow-breasted Chats were reported at CRP on 5/11 and Michigan Bar on 5/12, but most interesting was apparent breeding by a pair at Sailor Bar along the American River, first detected on 5/30.

The Sacramento Area is roughly defined as lying between Hwy 20 to the north, Hwy 12 to the south, and the 1000’ contour to the east and west, plus all of Sacramento and Yolo Counties are included. Many reports first appeared on the Central Valley Bird Club Listserve and eBird. It is impossible to list everyone, but I want to thank the following for their reports: Scott Dietrich, Chris Dunford, Jim Dunn, Todd Easterla, Gil Ewing, Cory Gregory, Steve Hampton, Ed Harper, Dave Johnson, Dan Kopp, Jeri Langham, John Luther, Don Marsh, Mark Martucci, Harry Oakes, Frances Oliver, Ed Pandolfino, Michael Perrone, Linda Pittman, Ron Pozzi, William Rockey, Diane Rose, Jim Rowoth, John Sterling, John Trochet, Bruce Webb, Magill Weber, and Ed Whisler. Thanks to everyone for their reports—without them, this column would not be possible.

March 2012

As winter transitioned into spring, with the mass arrival of Swainson’s Hawks, Western Kingbirds, and six species of swallows, as well as the departure of Sandhill Cranes, most of the notable rarities were Yolo County gulls (see below). Red-breasted Mergansers were reported from the Wildhorse Golf Course in Davis, with a male on 3/22, and William B. Pond on the American River Parkway (ARP), with a female on 3/31. Beal’s Point at Folsom Lake produced three species of loons on 3/19. Along with the regularly occurring Common Loon, a Pacific Loon was in Placer County and a Red-throated Loon was near the Sacramento/Placer line; the latter, probably the same bird reported sporadically since December, continued on 3/24. The Brown Pelican first found in West Sacramento on 8/24/2011 continued through at least 3/25.

Most of the month’s gull reports came from the Yolo Landfill and Davis WTP. Perhaps most striking was an apparent adult Iceland Gull present from 3/9 through at least 3/16; an apparent second-cycle was reported on 3/1. An adult Slaty-backed Gull was photographed on 3/9 (this and the former species are on the California Bird Records Committee review list—please submit photos and other documentation: californiabirds.org). The Landfill and WTP have been so productive in recent winters that multiple reports of adult Western Gulls and Glaucous Gulls this month are now expected. A first-cycle Lesser Black-backed Gull was photographed on 3/30. Moving away from Yolo, an adult Lesser Black-backed Gullwas found and photographed at Folsom Lake (Granite Bay) on 3/28 and continued into early April.  All photos below by Todd Easterla from Davis WTP.

Slaty-backed Gull adult (dark mantle, reddish eye orbital, with a smallish, straight bill), 9 March 2012

Slaty-backed Gull adult (dark mantle, reddish eye orbital, with a smallish, straight bill), 9 March 2012

Lesser Black-backed Gull, first-cycle, 30 March 2012

Other notable reports include two Snowy Plovers at Folsom Lake (Granite Bay) on 3/30, a Semipalmated Plover at Cosumnes River Preserve (CRP) on 3/14-15, perhaps continuing from February (2/26). The continuing Black-throated Sparrow near Esparto was refound on 3/11, and the Harris’s Sparrow in north Davis continued into April, while the Harris’s Sparrow found on Desmond Rd at CRP was last reported on 3/3. White-throated Sparrows were widely reported, with three consistently found along ARP upstream of Howe Ave.

The Sacramento Area is roughly defined as lying between Hwy 20 to the north, Hwy 12 to the south, and the 1000’ contour to the east and west, plus all of Sacramento and Yolo Counties are included. Many reports first appeared on the Central Valley Bird Club Listserve and eBird. It is impossible to list everyone, but I want to thank the following for their reports: Roger Adamson, Ben Azar, Chris Dunford, Todd Easterla, Gil Ewing, Cory Gregory, Steve Hampton, Dan Kopp, Jeri Langham, Ron Pozzi, William Rockey, John Sterling, John Trochet, Bruce Webb, Magill Weber, and Dan Welsh. Thanks to everyone for their reports—without them, this column would not be possible.

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Indigo Bunting, Aug 13. Photos by Manfred Kusch

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Indigo Bunting, Aug 13. Photos by Manfred Kusch

February 2012

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Common Redpoll in Woodland by Jackie Shulters

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Common Redpoll in Woodland by Jackie Shulters

The bird of the month was a Common Redpoll photographed at a backyard feeder in Woodland on 2/22, continuing on and off until 2/25. This first for Yolo County and the Sacramento Area was seen by several birders and photographed, but was probably not seen by most who looked, as it never developed a consistent pattern of visitation during its short stay. The (eastern) Winter Wren first found on 11/27 was refound at a closed portion of Cosumnes River Preserve (CRP) on 2/25, but was not subsequently detected.

The continuing Falcated Duck at Colusa NWR was seen through at least 2/10, and two blue morph Ross's Geese were found on that date as well. Other interesting waterfowl, reported on 2/5 at Bridgeway Island pond in West Sacramento, included a continuing hybrid male Northern Shoveler X Blue-winged Teal, nine Blue-winged Teal, and a male looking like a Blue-winged Teal, but with a cinnamon belly. A hybrid male Blue-winged Teal X Cinnamon Teal was at Yolo Wildlife Area, also on 2/5. The Brown Pelican in West Sacramento continued through the month and a banded juvenile was seen on 2/8 at the Yolo County Landfill. Upon reporting the large readable band code, it was learned that the bird was initially picked up on Lakeville Hwy in Petaluma, banded at a rehab center, and released on 11/18 in Monterey with other pelicans.

A raptor search on 2/10 in the Dunnigan Hills north of Esparto produced 18 Northern Harriers, a Red Shouldered Hawk, 55 Red-tailed Hawks, three Ferruginous Hawks, two Golden Eagles, 27 American Kestrels, and an impressive 34 Loggerhead Shrikes. A Rough-legged Hawk, several Ferruginous Hawks, two Golden Eagles, and a Prairie Falcon were reported mid-month along Hwy 104 east of Galt. On 2/17, 6-8 Short-eared Owls were found along Rd 30 east of Davis and seen by many in the following days.

Most of the month’s gull reports came for the vicinity of the Yolo Landfill and Davis WTP. Several gulls approaching the Iceland Gull end of the spectrum (from the paler Iceland to the darker Thayer’s Gull) were reported, including an apparent nominate glaucoides on 2/12-18 (For more on this topic, visit <http://www.tertial.us/gulls/tkg.htm>). At least two Western Gulls and three Glaucous Gulls were present in February, along with up to 350 Thayer’s Gulls. A first-winter Lesser Black-backed Gull was reported from Doton’s Point at Folsom Lake on 2/1.

The Harris’s Sparrow in north Davis continued through at least 2/19, and the Harris’s Sparrow found on Desmond Rd at Cosumnes River Preserve (CRP) on 1/23 continued into early March. Apparently there were two, with one farther south on a closed road. Additional highlights included 40+ Mountain Bluebirds on private property in southeastern Sacramento County on 2/20, a Townsend’s Solitaire on Rayhouse Rd on 2/2, the continuing Black-throated Sparrow near Esparto, and a Chestnut-collared Longspur at the Valensin portion of CRP on 2/9.

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Harris's Sparrow at CRP on 16 Feb 2012 by Janice Clark

The Sacramento Area is roughly defined as lying between Hwy 20 to the north, Hwy 12 to the south, and the 1000’ contour to the east and west, plus all of Sacramento and Yolo Counties are included. Many reports first appeared on the Central Valley Bird Club Listserve and eBird. It is impossible to list everyone, but I want to thank the following for their reports: Roger Adamson, Terry Colborn, Chris Dunford, Todd Easterla, Gil Ewing, Maureen Geiger, Cory Gregory, Steve Hampton, Dan Kopp, Jeri Langham, Linda Pittman, Ron Pozzi, William Rockey, Jackie Shulters, Zach Smith, John Sterling, Dan Tankersley, John Trochet, and Magill Weber. Thanks to everyone for their reports—without them, this column would not be possible.

January 2012

While January brought a bit more rain than December, the season continued to be remarkably dry, and numbers and diversity of wintering songbirds were lower than normal. The male Falcated Duck found at the Colusa NWR on 12/8 continued into February. Up to six Eurasian Wigeon were seen in the same pond. Four Eurasian Wigeon was a nice total on the 1/3 Rio Cosumnes CBC, and other notable reports were from the Lincoln WTP on 1/25 and the Ione WTP on 1/21, along with a female  Barrow’s Goldeneye. An apparent male Gadwall x Mallard (“Brewer’s Duck”) was at Cosumnes River Preserve (CRP) on 1/3. Reports continued of the Brown Pelican first found in West Sacramento on 8/24.

Rare “Prairie” Merlins were reported more than usual, with the bird from Nader Ln north of Lincoln found again on 1/2, another photographed at Paradise Beach along the American River Parkway on 1/5, and a well-described male at the Orr portion of CRP on 1/13. Two Long-eared Owls were a nice surprise at CRP on 1/3-5. It has been a fairly good winter for Short-eared Owls locally, and spectacular in portions of the Bay Area. Near Vacaville, 15+ were seen in late January and closer to Sacramento, there was one at CRP on 1/12, three east of Yolo Grasslands Park on 1/23, and two at Stone Lakes NWR on 1/29 in the field south of Elk Grove Blvd between Franklin Blvd and I-5.

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Ruff at CRP - photo by Ed Harper

Three Semipalmated Plovers at the Woodland WTP on 1/26 were unexpected for January. The Mountain Plovers first found along Progress Rd north of Oswald Rd (west of the Sutter NWR) on 12/17 continued with 12 present on 1/7 and at least two remaining on 1/27. They have been scarce in Yolo County in recent years, so 14 near Rds 17 and 101 outside of Woodland on 1/7-9 were most welcome. A Ruff found on 1/3 and again on 1/12 was only the second for Consumnes River Preserve. Notable gull reports include a first cycle Vega Gull (Siberian Herring Gull) at the Yolo Landfill on 1/9, single adult Western Gulls at Ancil Hoffman (ARP) on 1/9 and the Davis Wetlands on 1/16, and first cycle Glaucous Gulls at the Yolo Landfill pond on 1/16 and east of Sutter NWR on 1/22; it was likely the same bird present at Sutter NWR on 1/27.

Single Pacific-slope/”Western” Flycatchers were reported from Mather Lake on 1/1 and CRP on 1/15, and single Cassin’s Vireos at different sites of CRP were found on 1/15 and 1/16. While generally a poor winter for montane invaders like Golden-crowned Kinglets, two Brown Creepers were found at CRP on 1/3, and a single was found on 1/15. Out of range Harris’s Sparrows have been widely reported, and locally the north Davis bird continued through the month, and another was found along Desmond Rd at CRP on 1/23, also continuing into February. Other notables include three Northern Rough-winged Swallows at CRP on 1/13, with four on 1/14, twenty Mountain Bluebirds at Stone Lakes NWR on 1/4, an astounding flock of over two million European Starlings flying over CRP on 1/17, a Chipping Sparrow at CRP on 1/3, and a Western Tanager at East Lawn Cemetery (along with the continuing (possibly hybrid) Red-naped Sapsucker) on 1/8.

The Sacramento Area is roughly defined as lying between Hwy 20 to the north, Hwy 12 to the south, and the 1000’ contour to the east and west, plus all of Sacramento and Yolo Counties are included. Many reports first appeared on the Central Valley Bird Club Listserve and eBird. It is impossible to list everyone, but I want to thank the following for their reports: Chad Aakre, Roger Adamson, Dan Airola, Matt Brady, Terry Colborn, Chris Dunford, Todd Easterla, Maureen Geiger, Cory Gregory, Steve Hampton, Ed Harper, James Holmes, Scott Hoppe, Joanne Katanic, Dan Kopp, Jeri Langham, Jim Laughlin, Don Marsh, Mark Martucci, William Rockey, Dale Rubach, Zach Smith, Maryanne Steurer, John Sterling, Dan Tankersley, Beatrix Treiterer, John Trochet, and the local CBC counters and compilers. Thanks to everyone for their reports—without them, this column would not be possible.

December 2011

Falcated Duck at Colusa NWR by Linda Pittman

Falcated Duck at Colusa NWR by Linda Pittman

December 2011 was one of the driest Decembers on record, with just over a quarter-inch of rain. Many local CBCs reported lower than average numbers and diversity, especially waterfowl and irruptive species likely to be driven into the Valley by severe weather (see the CBC reports for details). Yet, the mostly spring-like weather led to many observers in the field. The most notable report was a male Falcated Duck found at the Colusa NWR on 12/8. It was missed on a couple of days, but for the most part was very cooperative, continuing into January. If accepted by the California Bird Records Committee, it would be only the third record for the state and the first for the Central Valley. Prior to 2002, the occasional reports of this species were considered escaped captives, but recent reports on the West Coast suggesting vagrancy from Asia have gained wider acceptance. Additional waterfowl of interest included an aberrant or hybrid Emperor Goose found on 12/23 at Sutter NWR, a first-year Trumpeter Swan at Lake of the Pines on the 12/17 Auburn CBC, a Eurasian Green-winged Teal at the Yolo Wildlife Area on 12/17, and a female Red-breasted Merganser at the Granite Bay access to Folsom Lake on 12/26.

A Swainson’s Hawk on 12/8 at Williams was rare for winter that far north in the Valley. Single “Prairie” Merlins were reported from Nader Ln north of Lincoln on 12/3 and near Granite Bay on 12/26. Gulls at the Yolo County Landfill included an adult Lesser Black-backed Gulland an adult Glaucous Gull on 12/10. The latter bird may have been the same one present on 12/31, with a second-cycle Glaucous Gullpresent on 12/30. An adult Western Gull was at Ancil Hoffman Park along the American River on 12/28. One of the most intriguing reports of the month was of a male Black-chinned Hummingbird near El Dorado Hills on the 12/26 Folsom CBC. It was seen well, though attempts to refind this bird were unsuccessful. A Red-naped Sapsucker was seen by many at East Lawn Cemetery beginning on 12/13. The hint of excess red on the face may indicate a Red-breasted Sapsucker somewhere in its ancestry.

Harris's Sparrow by Linda Pittman

Other excellent finds included a Western Kingbird on Oak Ave northwest of Folsom on 12/12-13, a Northern Shrike at the Peninsula portion of Folsom Lake, two Cassin’s Vireos in town on the 12/15 Marysville CBC, a Canyon Wren near Old Folsom on 12/26 (the first for this site in 40 years), a Northern Waterthrush near Lake of the Pines on the 12/17 Auburn CBC and again on 12/19, an apparent Hermit X Townsend’s Warbler at Baldwin Reservoir on 12/26, a first winter Harris’s Sparrow in north Davis from 12/4 into January, and two Evening Grosbeaks at East Lawn Cemetery on 12/15. The Black-throated Sparrow in Esparto continued through most of December, and a Lapland Longspur continued in a field north of Rd 27 from 11/17 through at least 12/9. From last month, 26 Mountain Plovers on a portion of Sherman Island without public access on 11/10 provided the first record in over a decade for Sacramento County.

Many of these reports first appeared on the Central Valley Bird Club Listserve. Visit cvbirds.org and click "Listserve" 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, Brian Acord, Roger Adamson, Bruce Deuel, Chris Dunford, Todd Easterla, Gil Ewing, Maureen Geiger, Steve Hampton, Ed Harper, Cliff Hawley, Dan Kopp, Lea Landry, Jim Laughlin, Mary Beth Metcalf, Frances Oliver, Michael Park, Kathy Parker, W. Rockey, Krysta Rogers, Jennifer Rycenga, Craig Swolgaard, John Sterling, Dan Tankersley, Kevin Thomas, John Trochet, Bruce Webb, Dan Williams, and the local CBC counters and compilers. Thanks to everyone for their reports—without them, this column would not be possible.

November 2011

This interior-type Sage Sparrow was found by Dan Williams at Sherman Island, in southwestern Sacramento County, on private property. He was able to arrange access for people to see this bird through 11/22. Photo by Linda Pittman on Nov 17, 2011, with additional photos here . Photos by John Sterling are here.

This Winter Wren was found on a monthly bird survey at a closed portion of Cosumnes River Preserve on Nov 27, 2011. Image taken from a video by Chris Conard. Additional images and videos of this bird, which include characteristic calls, as well as Pacific Wrens for comparison are here.

Despite decades of observation, it is quite remarkable that new species are added to the state, the Central Valley, and the local counties each year. The most recent example is a bit different, since it was assisted by the 2010 AOU split of “Winter Wren” into three species: Eurasian Wren, Pacific Wren, and Winter Wren (or “Eastern” Winter Wren). Pacific Wren is the regular breeding bird along the coast and in the mountains of California, which regularly winters in small and varying numbers in dense riparian forest at sites like the Cosumnes River Preserve (CRP). On 11/27, a Winter Wren (looking and sounding like a bird from eastern North America) was recorded at CRP. This was at a remote site without regular public access, but recordings of the call and video were obtained, which can be viewed at the Web link below. If accepted by the California Bird Records Committee, this would be a first for the Central Valley and one of a handful so far for the state.

Among the best finds of the month were an American Golden-Plover and a Pacific Golden-Plover at the Farmer’s Central Pond of Rd 102, south of Woodland, on 11/4. The former was refound on 11/5. A juvenile sapsucker was seen in downtown Sacramento on 11/2. Only Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers are known to retain juvenile plumage into the fall and away from their natal grounds, so it would appear to be that species by default. A Sage Sparrow (interior type) was discovered on private property at Sherman Island on 11/7. Fortunately, limited access was obtained and the bird was seen through 11/22.

In addition to the expected chaparral species, a ten-mile hike up Rayhouse Rd on 11/27 produced 75 Band-tailed Pigeons, four Northern Pygmy-Owls, four Hairy Woodpeckers, 20 Purple Finches, and four Thick-billed Fox Sparrows. The latter birds, of the type breeding in the mountains of California, are rarely detected in our area. Additional birds of note include the continuing Brown Pelican in West Sacramento, a White-winged Dove in Solano County at Birds Landing and Montezuma Hills Rds on 11/17, 65 Band-tailed Pigeons coming to Putah Creek for water at the Hwy 128 Bridge below Monticello Dam on 11/18, a Short-eared Owl along Desmond Rd at CRP on 11/5 (there have been few recent Sacramento County reports), the continuing Black-throated Sparrow in Esparto, an apparent Red Fox Sparrow found singing in north Davis on 11/25 and continuing into December, and at least two different Lapland Longspurs found in a field north of Rd 27, between Rds 102 and 102B, from 11/17 through the end of the month.

Many of these reports first appeared on the Central Valley Bird Club Listserve. Visit cvbirds.org and click "Listserve" 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: Todd Easterla, Steve Hampton, Cliff Hawley, Dan Kopp, Sami LaRocca, Michael Perrone, John Sterling, Zach Smith, Magill Weber, Dan Welsh, and Dan Williams. Thanks to everyone for their reports—without them, this column would not be possible.

October 2011

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The Black-throated Sparrow by Ray Rozema

After several months where shorebirds took top billing, this October produced some nice songbird records. Two of these occurred at the same location: Putah Creek near the end of Hopkins Rd. Both birds were found on 10/1 and continued on 10/2. A Tennessee Warbler was detected first and other observers, looking for it, found a Clay-colored Sparrow. The latter was seen on both the Yolo and Solano sides of the creek. The songbird of the month was a Black-throated Sparrow southwest of Esparto on 10/21. It was seen into November, associating with Lark Sparrows in a young orchard along Rd 22, a little north of Rd 23. Apparently this is only the second Yolo County record. Female Rose-breasted Grosbeaks were reported on 10/6 on the Yolo side of Lake Solano and on 10/7 in west Davis

There were two other excellent finds for the month. A first year Common Tern was seen at Sherman Island on 10/14. Surprisingly, this is one of very few reports for Sacramento County. They are more regular at other sites in the Central Valley, but this may reflect a paucity of good roosting and foraging sites with birder access in the county. On 10/6, two Chimney Swifts were found among several small flocks of Vaux’s Swifts flying at near eye level in stormy weather. The Chimney Swifts were noted as larger, longer-winged, and darker overall, with a more direct flight style consisting of fewer wing beats and more gliding than the “fluttery” Vaux’s Swifts.

Brown Pelican by Dave Johnson

The Brown Pelican first found at the Bridgeway Island Pond in West Sacramento on 8/24 continued in the vicinity throughout the month. The dull brown neck and head, lack of much color on the bare parts (bill and skin on face), and the uniform pale edging to feathers on the upper surface of the wings indicate this is a first year bird, as are most Brown Pelicans that stray into the Central Valley.

On both 10/1 and 10/30, a Band-tailed Pigeon was found in Davis. On 10/2 a Band-tailed Pigeon was found at the SRCSD Bufferlands (a first for this location), and a male Yellow-shafted (Northern) Flicker was found at Cosumnes River Preserve on 10/8. Also on 10/8, a Townsend's Solitaire was seen on the ridge above Cold Canyon Campground along Putah Creek; downstream of this site, an unusually large flock of 25-30 Band-tailed Pigeons and calling Chestnut-backed Chickadees  were detected. A Vesper Sparrow on Sherman Island Levee Rd on 10/10 adds to the list of recent finds from Sherman Island.

Many of these reports first appeared on the Central Valley Bird Club Listserve. Visit cvbirds.org and click "Listserve" 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: Brent Campos, Todd Easterla, Andy Engilis, Kevin Guse, Steve Hampton, Alison Kent, Dan Kopp, John Luther, Michael Perrone, John Sterling, Michael Strom, John Trochet, Magill Weber, and Dan Williams. Thanks to everyone for their reports—without them, this column would not be possible.

September 2011

After three months of unprecedented shorebird finds (June, July, and August each had first records for the Central Valley, and the Common Ringed Plover at the Davis Wetlands (8/19-26) was a first for the state), things were bound to get back to normal. This was a fairly typical September, with reports of expected shorebird and songbird migrants, as well as an influx of returning waterfowl. The one major anomaly was Brown Pelicans seen through most of the month, with the bird first found at the Bridgeway Island Pond in West Sacramento on 8/24 continuing through 9/11. Possibly the same bird was seen flying at the Port of Sacramento (W. Sacramento) on 9/6. Two Brown Pelicans continued from last month in Contra Costa County waters near the Antioch Bridge on 9/20. Another individual was seen at the pond along Rd 102 near the Woodland WTP on 9/3-11 and at the Woodland WTP on 9/21. 

Juvenile Brown Pelican and Snowy Egret at Bridgeway Island Pond in West Sacramento on 1 September 2011 by Chris Conard. Additonal photos are here.

Juvenile Brown Pelican 1 Sept 2011 by Chris Conard

Juvenile Sabine's Gull- 8 Sept 2011 by John Sterling

Probably the most unexpected bird of the month was a juvenile Sabine’s Gull at the Woodland WTP from 9/8-15.  Juvenile Sabine's Gull and Barn Swallow photographed at the Woodland Wastewater Treatment Plant on 8 September 2011 by John Sterling. Additional photos are here .

A Pacific Golden-Plover was found at the Davis WTP on 9/9-10. The Woodland WTP produced a Semipalmated Sandpiper (9/8-15), up to four Baird’s Sandpipers (9/8-15), and two Pectoral Sandpipers on 9/8, with five on 9/11 at the nearby pond on Rd 102. Pectoral Sandpipers were widely reported from other sites, including the Lincoln WTP (8/30-9/9), Riley and Salas Rds near Wilton (9/29), Staten Island (six on 9/17), and Sherman Island (two on 9/20). A Solitary Sandpiper was found at the Lincoln WTP on 9/6-9, and a long-staying bird was at the Sacramento Reg. WTP from 9/14-23. A Sanderling was found at the Davis Landfill pond visible from Rd 28H on 9/12-16. A Stilt Sandpiper was at the Davis Wetlands on 9/16 and, perhaps a different bird, was at the Davis WTP on 9/29-30.

The Eastern Kingbird found at the Yolo Wildlife Area on 8/30 continued through 9/1. The sole “eastern” warbler of the month was a Blackpoll Warbler on 9/15 along Putah Creek near Pedrick Rd. A White-throated Sparrow was in the same area on 9/26. And finally, a singing male Indigo Bunting on 8/2 at the Sac Reg. WTP Bufferlands was inadvertently left off of last month’s tally.

Many of these reports first appeared on the Central Valley Bird Club Listserve. Visit cvbirds.org and click "Listserve" 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: Dan Airola, Kathy Blankenship, Brent Campos, Dennis Cavallo, Todd Easterla, Cory Gregory, Steve Hampton, Michael Perrone, Linda Pittman, Mary Schiedt, Dan Skalos, John Sterling, John Trochet, Magill Weber, and Dan Williams. Thanks to everyone for their reports—without them, this column would not be possible.

August 2011

Once again shorebirds stole the show. There were good numbers of common migrant songbirds, but with few exceptions, nothing particularly noteworthy. A Brant spotted on Sherman Island was just the second record for Sacramento County. Likely the same bird was being seen near Benicia in the same time window. The first Sacramento County record was also from Sherman Island: 2/10-19/2001. 

The bird of the month and most likely the Sacramento Area bird of the year was a Common Ringed Plover found at the Davis Wetlands on 8/19. This was another excellent find by Todd Easterla, a first state record, and one of few records for the Lower 48. This species, just slightly larger and more boldly marked than a Semipalmated Plover, put on an excellent show, calling and even allowing close approach to see that it lacked webbing (“palmation”) between its toes. When a rare migrant is found the day following discovery it is considered good luck, but it is not too unusual when a bird continues for a couple of days. This bird, however, stayed until 8/26, allowing 100+ birders to see it and attracting considerable media attention; though it did disappoint many traveling from outside the area by disappearing just before dozens of birders arrived on Saturday, 8/27. 

Common Ringed Plover showing the lack of webbing between toes. Photo by Todd Easterla on 8/20/2011

Buff-breasted Sandpiper at the Lincoln WTP. Photo by Linda Pittman on 8/30/2011

Common Ringed Plover (second from right) with two Semipalmated Plovers and a Western Sandpiper. Photo by Todd Easterla on 8/20/2011

Eastern Kingbird at Yolo Wildlife Area. Photo by Linda Pittman on 8/31/2011

An Eastern Kingbird was found at the eastern edge of the Yolo Wildlife Area on 8/30, and was seen by many through 9/1 among dozens of Western Kingbirds. This was only the third Yolo record and the first since 1973. More photos here.

Another excellent find for the month was a Buff-breasted Sandpiper at the Lincoln WTP on 8/29-31. This species shows up along the coast each fall in very low numbers, but this was a first for Placer County and only the second record for the Central Valley. Other good shorebird records include two Snowy Plovers at the Lincoln WTP on 8/8, a Solitary Sandpiper at Sherman Island on 8/15-16, a Solitary Sandpiper and a Semipalmated Sandpiper at Cosumnes River Preserve (CRP) on 8/6, and a Semipalmated Sandpiper at the Davis WTP on 8/14 and the Davis Wetlands on 8/18.

Brown Pelicans continued to be seen throughout the summer, with four in Contra Costa County near Sherman Island on 8/14. The Lodi Sewage Ponds bird continued from 7/20 to 8/14, and a Brown Pelican was found in West Sacramento on 8/24, continuing into September. A flock including two Arctic Terns and 11 Common Terns over the Davis Wetlands on 8/24 was a first county record for Arctic Tern and the largest flock of Common Terns recorded in the county. Least Terns at the Sac Reg. WTP continued through 8/12 after fledging three chicks. A single adult was at the Lodi Sewage Ponds on 8/7. On 8/20, a Peregrine Falcon was seen catching bats as they emerged at dusk from the Franklin Blvd Bridge near CRP. Swainson’s Hawks were also making an attempt at the bats, but were far less successful. Finally, a cooperative juvenile Brewer’s Sparrow, allowing scope-filling views, was a nice find at CRP on 8/20.

Many of these reports first appeared on the Central Valley Bird Club Listserve. Visit cvbirds.org and click "Listserve" for details. With more than 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: Dennis Cavallo, Todd Easterla, Steve Hampton, Ed Harper, Frances Oliver, Linda Pittman, Ron Pozzi, Jim Rowoth, Mary Schiedt, Susan Schneider, John Sterling, John Trochet, Ed Whisler, and Dan Williams. Thanks to everyone for their reports—without them, this column would not be possible.

June - July 2011

With abundant late rain this spring it is not too surprising that migrant songbirds were somewhat delayed, with fair numbers coming through well into June. A sample day on 6/5 at Slide Hill Park in Davis included a Hammond's Flycatcher, a Dusky Flycatcher, a "Western” Flycatcher, an Olive-sided Flycatcher, a Swainson's Thrush, a Wilson's Warbler and a Townsend's Warbler. Also surprising for this summer season were a few unusual and/or unprecedented breeding records. Hooded Mergansers were confirmed nesting for the first time in Sacramento County at Cosumnes River Preserve (CRP) near the Valensin Forest, and Yellow Warblers were found to have nested successfully for the first time at CRP, with an adult feeding two recently fledged young. The first solid nesting record of Yellow-breasted Chat at CRP was less heartening: a chat was seen feeding a young Brown-headed Cowbird. A pair of Least Terns nested for the fourth year in a row at the Sacramento Reg. WTP (SRWTP), fledging three chicks. At least two Bell’s Vireos were found singing at the Yolo Wildlife Area for the second year in a row, but no solid evidence of nesting was discovered, and the last detection was on 7/10.

The unchallenged highlights for the period were a couple of rare shorebirds, both first records for the Central Valley. An Upland Sandpiper was found along Waverly Rd to the east of Stockton, just south of the area typically covered by this column, on 6/25. It was seen by many, with some seeing and hearing its wonderful flight display. At other times during its stay through 6/28 it remained out of sight, disappointing many others.  Linda Pittman's photos, including flight shots, may be found here.  On 7/15-17, an adult Little Stint was found and seen by many at the Davis Wetlands and photographed by Roger Adamson. Additional photos  at http://radamson.smugmug.com/

Upland Sandpiper by Linda Pittman

Little Stint by Roger Adamson

On 6/1 a juvenile Brown Pelican was found in West Sacramento. The following day it was on the front lawn of the Post Office on Industrial Blvd. It was picked up by a wildlife rehabber that afternoon since it was walking into traffic. Another Brown Pelican found on 6/3 at the Folsom Dam did not survive. A juvenile Brown Pelican found at the Lodi WTP on 7/20 continued into August. This species is quite rare in the Valley, but it has become more regular over the past two decades. On 6/3 an adult Western Gull was among over 300 California Gulls at the Davis WTP. The California Gulls nested for the second year in a row, but none of the chicks survived to fledging, likely because of the sustained efforts by aerial and ground predators.

A male Allen’s Hummingbird was observed performing a display flight at CRP on 6/19 and Allen’s Hummingbirds were captured and measured (the only safe way to separate this species from Rufous Hummingbirds aside from the display flight) along Putah Creek between Davis and Winters. Other highlights included an adult Snowy Plover at the Lincoln WTP on 6/15-16, 21 Willets at SRWTP on 7/22, a Semipalmated Sandpiper at the Davis Wetlands on 7/15-17, three Common Nighthawks along Meiss Rd in eastern Sacramento County on 6/11, an unprecedented June record (6/12) of a Ruby-crowned Kinglet in full song on Yolo County Rd 98, north of the town of Yolo, and an immature male Summer Tanager on Todhunter Ave near Riverbank Road in West Sacramento on 7/20. The Steller’s Jay that wintered in Curtis Park continued through at least 6/18. Adult Purple Martins and their recently fledged young were noted in impressive numbers at Paradise Beach along the American River Parkway, with 65 on 7/26, a high of 92 on 7/27, and 40 or more continuing into mid-August.

Many of these reports first appeared on the Central Valley Bird Club Listserve.  Visit cvbirds.org and click "Listserve" for details. With more than 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, Mel Bolinder, Dawn DeBerry, Todd Easterla, Gil Ewing, Nancy Gronert, Steve Hampton, Ed Harper, Pablo Herrera, Dan Kopp, Manfred Kusch, Frances Oliver, Michael Perrone, Linda Pittman, Ron Pozzi, Jennifer Rycenga, John Sterling, John Trochet, and Ed Whisler. Thanks to everyone for their reports—without them, this column would not be possible.