Menu of Jan.-May 1996 (sections 96.1-96.59) Bird Field Notes
by Range Bayer from the Sandpiper (a publication
of Yaquina Birders & Naturalists, Lincoln County, Oregon)
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Section Month of
No. Sandpiper, Volume 17
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96.1 January 1996
96.13 February 1996
96.25 March 1996
96.37 April 1996
96.45 May 1996
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96.1 January 1996 Bird Field Notes
Comments in this column about abundance or seasonality refer to
Lincoln County only.
Abbreviations and some Lincoln Co. site locations: Bayview
Pasture=field east of junction of Beaver Creek Road and North Alsea
Bay Road, Beaver Creek=creek flowing through Ona Beach SP,
Boone Slough=freshwater slough at about mile 8.9 along north Yaquina
Bay Road, Criteser's Moorage=marina at about mile 10.2 along north
Yaquina Bay Road, Eckman Lake=lake just east of Waldport along HWY 34,
Eckman Slough=slough between Alsea Bay and Eckman Lake,
Hidden Valley=valley between Newport and Toledo accessible by downward
road at about mile 11.9 along north Yaquina Bay Road, Idaho
Flats=large embayment just east of the MSC, MSC=Marine Science Center,
Nute Slough=freshwater slough at about mile 9.3 along north Yaquina
Bay Road, Sallys Bend=large embayment east of the LNG tank at Yaquina
Bay, Sandpiper Village=residential area west of HWY 101 and just north
of Waldport, Thiel Creek=creek just south of the Newport Airport south
of South Beach, YBSJ=Yaquina Bay South Jetty.
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.2 BIRD RECORDS
Wow, it has been a very strange month for bird reports! One
state record (Dusky-capped Flycatcher), one very rare species for
Oregon (Prairie Warbler), several species rare for Lincoln County
(e.g., Gyrfalcon, Red-shouldered Hawk, and Black Phoebe), and several
unseasonable species (e.g., Turkey Vulture, Cedar Waxwing, and
Orange-crowned Warbler). With the exception of the Gyrfalcon, one
could get the impression that southerly species are coming north.
On the other hand, record or nearly record numbers of dead
fulmars, Western Grebes, Red Phalaropes, Ancient Murrelets,
Cassin's Auklets, and Rhinoceros Auklets washed ashore in December.
What a curious mix of reports!
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.3 12/30 YAQUINA BAY CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNT (CBC)
15 participants suffered through heavy rains, fog, and winds to
come with 111 species on Count Day; several other species were
reported during Count Week. New species for the Count included
Red-shouldered Hawk, Barn Owl, and Horned Lark. Some other species
noted during the CBC are also mentioned below.
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.4 GREBES-EGRET
A RED-NECKED GREBE at Eckman Lake on 1/2 (SaL) was out of place.
Along 4.5 miles of beach near Thiel Creek, BL and S&DB found
11 WESTERN GREBES washed ashore in December. BL began monitoring that
beach in 1978, and since then 10 or more in December were only found
in 1979 (13) and 1987 (10).
An exceptional number of NORTHERN FULMARS have also washed ashore
this winter; BL and S&DB found a total of 161 in just November and
December near Thiel Creek. The previous yearly maximum was 116 in
1992 with usually 50 or less found during a whole year. So 1995 set a
record, and fulmars were still washing during the first week of
January.
1-2 GREAT EGRETS lingered near south Siletz Bay on 1/6 (RKo) and
1/21 (C&JL); one was at Yaquina Bay on 12/30 (CBC) and 1/1 (CLu & CC;
SJ).
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.5 WATERFOWL
The immature TRUMPETER SWAN continues to linger at Eckman Lake
(L&LS); it was reported on 12/31 (CL), 1/2 (SaL), and 1/14 (YB&N field
trip); it is in danger of being a roadkill along HWY 34 as it waddles
around with the domestic geese that seem oblivious to traffic.
A WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE also hung out with the swan through December
(L&LS) and was still there during the 1/14 YB&N field trip.
CANADA GEESE continue to multiply; at least 16 with neck collars
and at least 255 noncollared geese were at Bayview Pasture on 1/14
(YB&N field trip); one hybrid with orange legs and a weird colored
head was with them.
40 BLACK BRANT west of the Yaquina Bay Bridge on 12/23 (RL) is
early for that site; they usually overwinter east of the Bridge at the
embayments.
27 HARLEQUIN DUCKS were bunched at the mouth of Ten Mile Creek
(Lane Co.) during PR's and PSh's 1/18 Harlequin Duck survey. Others
were at Seal Rocks and the YBSJ.
OLDSQUAWS were often reported at YBSJ with the largest count
being four on 1/6 (RKo).
BARROW'S GOLDENEYES continued to grace Alsea Bay east of the HWY
101 Bridge during six days in December (L&LS).
RL did an aerial waterfowl survey of the Oregon coast on 1/10 &
11, he found more RUDDY DUCKS (529) at Devils Lake than at all other
Lincoln County sites combined! However, AMERICAN COOT numbers at
Devils Lake were still very low (22).
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.6 RAPTORS
An unseasonal TURKEY VULTURE was reported for Hidden Valley on
1/13 (T&AM); previously, our only December or January TV sighting
appears to be of a singleton spotted on 1/1/95 south of Toledo (CP).
A COOPER'S HAWK was in SW Newport on 12/20 (RB), at Hidden Valley
on 1/1 (MC et al.), and at NW Newport on 1/13 (T&AM). A
SHARP-SHINNED HAWK hunted in Newport on 12/31 (CP) and at the MSC on
1/23 (RL). Cooper's or Sharp-shinned Hawks were also glimpsed at
Beaver Creek in late December (LO), south of Waldport on 1/1 (D&BM),
and at Thiel Creek on 1/6 (B&SL).
An adult BALD EAGLE seemed to be flying to and from the Yachats
River Valley on 12/28 & 31 and 1/1 (BB); on 12/31, the eagle flew in
and carried away a fish or other carrion that gulls and crows had been
fighting over (BB). Another was at Yaquina Head during three days in
December (BLM), and two adults were at the Salmon River Estuary and
Siletz and Yaquina Bays on 1/10 (RL).
The RED-SHOULDERED HAWK at about mile 2.5 along Hidden Valley
Road that CP first discovered on 12/7 was seen during the Yaquina Bay
CBC and was found by many observers to at least 1/15 (DB, JJ, & RF;
DE, LK, & LA).
1-2 WHITE-TAILED KITES were noted several times in the Hidden
Valley/Boone Slough/Criteser's Moorage area during 12/31-1/13 (CP;
MC & SJ et al.; CLu & CC; AMc; T&AM). Another was at Bayview Pasture
on 12/31 (CL) and at Idaho Flats on 1/21 (C&JL).
A GYRFALCON was discovered during the 12/30 CBC along the beach
just south of the YBSJ, and a large falcon that may have been a
Gyrfalcon was briefly glimpsed at the MSC on 1/15 (DP) and 1/22 (RL).
At least one PEREGRINE FALCON has been hanging around the YBSJ
this winter. On 12/22, EH read the band of an immature there that had
been banded in Portland, Oregon in May 1995 (fide RL). On 12/31, one
visited the YBSJ (PSu & JM) and the Salmon River boat launch (SD),
and, on 1/15, a pair were harassing each other at Drift Creek, south
of Lincoln City (DB, JJ, and RF). A Peregrine was also noted at
Yaquina Head during six days in December (BLM).
A MERLIN was eating a RED PHALAROPE at Sallys Bend on 12/31 (fide
CP), and a Merlin was also at the MSC on 1/4 (BT & SD) and 1/25 (RL).
AMERICAN KESTRELS can be scarce here, but they were found during
the 12/30 CBC and at Hidden Valley on 1/1 (SJ et al.) and 1/7 & 13
(JS & HH). Yaquina Head is a favored location for them in December,
as they were there during 11 days (BLM).
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.7 BOBWHITE-GULLS
Eight fat NORTHERN BOBWHITES appeared for the first time at SS's
Neskowin (Tillamook Co.) home on 1/28; they are probably escapees.
RUFFED GROUSE continued at Beaver Creek in late December (LO).
Drift Creek pasture near Gorton Road, south of Lincoln City,
continues to be a good spot to find shorebirds, especially at high
tides. On 1/15 (DB, JJ, & RF) and 1/21 (C&JL), saw about 35-100
BLACK-BELLIED PLOVERS, 150-200 SANDERLINGS, and 150-200 DUNLIN there.
On 1/15, two DOWITCHERS were nearby, and, on 1/21 (DB, JJ, & RF),
20 BLACK TURNSTONES with a few WESTERN SANDPIPERS and LEAST SANDPIPERS
were also detected at Drift Creek (C&JL).
WHIMBRELS have been scarce this winter, but one was in east
Alsea Bay during five days in December (L&LS) and also at the mouth of
Lint Slough, Alsea Bay during the 1/14 YB&N field trip.
A RUDDY TURNSTONE was reported to be on the beached barge at
about mile 7.5 along north Yaquina Bay Road on 1/1 (AF).
GREATER YELLOWLEGS were at Eckman Slough, Eckman Lake, Alsea Bay, and
south Beaver Creek during December (L&LS).
During a seawatch on Nov. 25 at Boiler Bay, RKe estimated
hundreds or thousands of RED PHALAROPES flying south, and they were
still numerous at the YBSJ on 12/16 (L&LS). But phalarope numbers
were dramatically down by the 12/30 CBC, and only four were flying
south at Boiler Bay on 1/4 (DB). As also noted in the December
Sandpiper, many died; BL and S&DB found 62 near Thiel Creek in
December. Since 1977, the previous December high was 18 in 1979 with
no or less than five phalaropes in most Decembers.
Five POMARINE JAEGERS passed Boiler Bay on 11/25 (RKe). An
immature GLAUCOUS GULL at Oregon Oyster (which is at about mile 7.2
along north Yaquina Bay Road) during the 12/30 CBC and the next day
(CL) is an unusual location for this species.
A WESTERN GULL caught and was trying to swallow a female
BUFFLEHEAD at Sallys Bend on 1/14, but the Bufflehead would have no
part of it and escaped (DF)!
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.8 ANCIENT MURRELET
As reported in previous Sandpipers, Ancients were the most
abundant alcid here from late October through mid-December 1995 with a
peak estimate of about 200 at Boiler Bay on 12/17 (GK), and several
observers reported 50-100 Ancients. Beginning in about mid-December
Common Murres appeared to have again become the most abundant alcid
like they usually are.
Reports indicate that Boiler Bay continued to be the place for
Ancients with at least 60 on 11/23 (RKe), but only eight or less on
1/1 (MC et al.), 1/4 (DB), 1/5 (FS), and 1/15 (DB, JJ, and RF).
Elsewhere, one was at the YBSJ on 1/1 (AF; MC et al.).
My impression is that Ancients MAY have been more abundant or
common here this winter than usual, but we don't have systematic
censuses to confirm this. In past winters, about as many Ancients
have also been seen sometimes; perhaps this year, we are just noting
them better because our observation effort is greater and/or our
attention has been more drawn to them.
But one thing is clear--more Ancients washed ashore this winter
at Thiel Creek than in any year since 1977. In December alone, BL and
S&DB found 23 dead Ancients, but the only previous 12 month period
with more than five Ancients was 1979 when 21 were discovered.
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.9 OTHER ALCIDS
Two PIGEON GUILLEMOTS in nonbreeding plumage were at the YBSJ on
1/1 (CP), and one was at Boiler Bay on 1/4 (DB).
DF discovered a dead XANTUS' MURRELET as he was walking down a
beach just south of Waldport on 1/22, but it had disappeared by the
time he walked back.
Fulmars, phalaropes, and Ancient Murrelets are not the only
seabirds hard hit by this wintry winter. In December, BL and S&DB
found 27 CASSIN'S AUKLETS and 10 RHINOCEROS AUKLETS washed ashore near
Thiel Creek. This number of Cassin's in December is much greater than
normal but not unprecedented, for 59 were found in December 1987 and
28 in December 1992. But since 1977 more than five Rhinos in December
were only observed in 1990 (8) and 1991 (8), so more Rhinos came
ashore this December than normally.
Given the high mortality of other seabirds, it might be expected
that many dead COMMON MURRES would also have been counted, but BL and
S&DB only noted five this December, which is similar to Decembers in
other years.
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.10 OWL-JAYS
On 1/3 & 4, one BARN OWL was in a barn at Thiel Creek about a
half mile from where one was seen during the CBC (B&SL).
A female ANNA'S HUMMINGBIRD fed on a flowering quince in NW
Newport on 1/4 (AMc); they have been regulars at D&BM's feeder south
of Waldport during December and early January and at L&LS's home at
Sandpiper Village throughout December.
On 1/2, PD was walking in NW Newport when she noticed an
odd-looking bird that, with her unaided eyes, she first thought might
have been a kingbird. She carefully noted the bird and went home to
consult her field guides. Based on its call, she thought it might be
a DUSKY-CAPPED FLYCATCHER (formerly known as the Olivaceous
Flycatcher), but the maps in field guides indicate that it barely
comes north of Mexico. She reported it, and the next day AC relocated
it, and on 1/4, many birders tape-recorded, photographed, and
videotaped it (fide AC); the consensus is that it is indeed a
Dusky-capped and the first record of one in Oregon! It has since been
found by many birders in the NW 6th to NW 8th and Cottage St. areas;
it was last reported on 1/15 (DB, JJ, & RF; DE, LK, & LA).
A BLACK PHOEBE was detected at the west side of Nute Slough on
1/1 (AF) and was relocated on 1/10 (FS), 1/12 (AMc), and 1/13 (JS &
HH).
The HORNED LARK in the short grass at the YBSJ was detected
during the 12/30 Yaquina Bay CBC and was often reported to at least
1/1 (AF).
A few GRAY JAYS sometimes show up in the lowlands during winter,
but our only report this month was for one at Neskowin on 1/17 (SS).
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.11 WRENS-WARBLERS
A HOUSE WREN detected along the MSC Nature Trail on 1/1 (AF) was
not relocated.
It is never too early to sing, especially when the sun comes out.
A BEWICK'S WREN sang in SW Newport on 12/31 (RB), and a WINTER WREN
sang at Nye Beach in Newport on 1/11 (P&MD).
A pair of WESTERN BLUEBIRDS at Cannery Hill at Nestucca Bay
(Tillamook Co.) on 1/22 is unusual (DP).
Two CEDAR WAXWINGS were in the Dusky-capped's neighborhood on
1/4 (DB), three were flycatching at San Bay-O Circle in NE Newport on
1/16 (CP), and one was near the Newport Fire Station on 1/21 (C&JL).
A few waxwings occasionally appear here in January, when we have more
records than in February-April. They usually arrive en masse in late
May.
The PRAIRIE WARBLER last visited the Horvath's home in South
Beach on 12/26, although it was reported nearby on 1/1 (AF).
TOWNSEND'S WARBLERS are usually pretty solitary here in winter,
but there have been several reports of flocks recently. On 12/31,
SD noted at least 30 along the trail at Cascade Head in Tillamook Co.,
and CP counted at least 10 at his Toledo home on 1/15.
1-3 PALM WARBLERS were watched at the MSC on 1/1 (AF), 1/4 (SD &
BT), 1/14 (SK & DK), and 1/15 (DB, JJ, and RF); with a maximum of five
on 1/13 (T&AM).
An unseasonal ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLER was in the Dusky-capped's
neighborhood on 1/4 (JG, fide DB) and 1/15 (DE, LK, & LA).
Both MYRTLE and AUDUBON'S forms of YELLOW-RUMPED WARBLERS were at
the MSC in early January (DP; RL).
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.12 SPARROWS-SISKIN
The briar patch behind the Gas For Less service station in Toledo
has been very productive for sparrows this winter, as it has also been
in past winters. On 1/10, DF found seven species of sparrows there:
SWAMP SPARROW, LINCOLN'S SPARROW, FOX SPARROW, WHITE-CROWNED SPARROW,
GOLDEN-CROWNED SPARROW, WHITE-THROATED SPARROW, and SONG SPARROW.
December 31 was a wonderfully sunny day, and some birds were
motivated to sing! A SONG SPARROW first sang in SW Newport then and
has sung sporadically since then (RB).
DP discovered a flock of 39 WESTERN MEADOWLARKS at the Nestucca
Bay NWR (Tillamook Co.) on 1/22; many were also there sometimes last
winter. One was at Yaquina Head on 12/3 (BLM) and at the YBSJ on 1/13
(JS & HH).
A HOUSE FINCH with a white head was hanging out with a HOUSE
SPARROW with some white on its head at NW 16th in Newport on 1/27
(CP).
It has not been a year of great PINE SISKIN abundance; only
40 were recorded during the 12/30 CBC, and D&BM have only occasionally
detected a singleton at their home south of Waldport. But in Toledo,
P&MD saw a flock on 12/27.
OBSERVERS.--Lisa Aanderud, BLM (Bureau of Land Management at
Yaquina Head), Betty Bahn, David Bailey, Range Bayer,
Sara & Don Brown, Catharina Coenen, Alan Contreras, Marcia Cutler,
Pat & Meagan Dickey, Steve Dowlan, Dave Eshbaugh, Darrel Faxon, Rob
Fergus, Anthony Floyd, Jeff Gilligan, Hendrik Herlyn, Eric Horvath,
Jim Johnson, Scott Johnson, Lee Kellogg, Robert Kelsh (RKe),
Georges Kleinbaum, Diane Kook, Steve Kornfield, Ray Korpi (RKo),
Cindy & John Lawes, Sally Lockyear (SaL), Bob and Shirley Loeffel,
Roy Lowe, Chris Lundberg (CLu), Alan McGie (AMc), Judy Meredith,
Dawson & Bobby Mohler, Terrie & Al Murray, Laimons Osis, Chuck Philo,
Dave Pitkin, Paul Reed, Floyd Schrock, Shirley Schwartz,
Lloyd & Luella Seabury, Patty Shreve (PSh), Jamie Simmons,
Paul Sullivan (PSu), Bill Tice.
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96.13 February 1996 Bird Field Notes
Comments in this column about abundance or seasonality refer to
Lincoln County only.
Abbreviations and some Lincoln Co. site locations: Bayview
Pasture=field east of junction of Beaver Creek Road and North Alsea
Bay Road, Beaver Creek=creek flowing through Ona Beach State Park,
Drift Creek Pasture at Gorton Road=field ESE of Cutler City (Siletz
Bay), Eckman Lake=lake just east of Waldport along HWY 34, Hidden
Valley=valley between Newport and Toledo accessible by downward road
at about mile 11.9 along north Yaquina Bay Road, MSC=Marine Science
Center, Nute Slough=freshwater slough at about mile 9.3 along north
Yaquina Bay Road, Sallys Bend=large embayment east of the LNG tank at
Yaquina Bay, Sandpiper Village=residential area west of HWY 101 and
just north of Waldport, Thiel Creek=creek just south of the Newport
Airport south of South Beach, Thornton Creek=creek between Toledo and
Eddyville, YBSJ=Yaquina Bay South Jetty.
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.14 GREBE-FULMAR
A lone RED-NECKED GREBE lingered at the unlikely location of
Eckman Lake to at least 1/26 (SL). EARED GREBES, never very abundant
here, were represented by six at Sallys Bend on 1/1 (KM).
NORTHERN FULMARS continued to wash ashore throughout January
along 4.5 mi of beach near Thiel Creek (BL, S&DB). At least six
FORK-TAILED STORM-PETRELS were flying around the YBSJ, and one was
near the Alsea Bay docks on 2/23 (SD & BT).
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.15 BRANT
On 1/15, KM saw flocks of 14, 21, and five Brant flying south
past Yaquina Head at about 9:30 AM. They were going the wrong way to
be spring migrants; perhaps, there is some interchange in wintering
Brant between Netarts and Yaquina Bays or, perhaps, they flew south
past Yaquina Bay, too.
It is unclear if BRANT from Yaquina Estuary go out and roost on
the ocean at night, and, if so, if they do so all the time. On 2/16,
RL saw two flocks come in from the ocean over the YBSJ and fly east
past the bridge after sunrise. They could have been spring migrants,
but DP's Brant counts and search of banded Brant suggest that they
were probably Brant that had been wintering at the Yaquina.
There is a lot we don't know about birds as common as Brant!
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.16 ADAPTABLE SCOTERS
Waves of SURF SCOTERS were flying in from the ocean and landing
at the YBSJ at sunrise on 2/16 (RL); on 2/18, CP also saw many scoters
there.
As you already know, it has rained a lot recently. How much has
it rained? So much that even clams can't take it! The superabundance
of freshwater in estuaries was too much for cockles and perhaps some
other organisms that need brackish water, so cockles have been on the
mudflat surface and gaping while dying. This attracts birds, and MR
reports that many Surf Scoters and gulls were feasting on the cockles
at Alsea Bay in mid-February. Such a cockle die-off also occurred a
few winters ago at Yaquina Estuary.
Also at Alsea Bay, DF spotted about 250 scoters and 700 gulls
actively feeding west of the HWY 101 Bridge on 2/18, but it was
unclear what they were feeding on.
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.17 OTHER WATERFOWL
The TRUMPETER SWAN at Eckman Lake was last reported on 2/5 (RL);
the GR. WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE has lingered there throughout January
(L&LS) and was last noted on 2/12 (RL).
On 12/24 and 1/15 at Bayview Pasture, KM found 3-5 Cackling, four
Dusky, 188-206 Western CANADA GEESE, and a hybrid Canada X domestic
goose.
WOOD DUCKS have rarely been reported this winter, but they have
commonly been at a lake south of Newport through January (L&LS).
A CINNAMON TEAL at east Alsea Bay on 1/17 (L&LS) is extremely
rare here then.
1-2 OLDSQUAWS were at YBSJ on 2/14&15 (RL), 2/18 (MS), 2/19 (PR &
PS; CG), and 2/23 (SD & BT).
A few BARROW'S GOLDENEYES regularly winter at east Alsea Bay;
L&LS found them during five days in January, a male was there on 2/17
(MC et al.), and at least five were present on 2/23 (SD & BT).
7-8 HARLEQUIN DUCKS graced YBSJ on 2/11 (KM), 2/12 (RL), and 2/19
(CG). A Harlequin at Yaquina Head on 2/11 (KM) is now a rarity for
that site, where they used to be fairly regular. Harlequins were
often seen at Seal Rocks in January (L&LS).
26-27 REDHEADS wintered at Sallys Bend on 12/24 and 1/1 (KM).
Devils Lake continues to be a hotspot for RUDDY DUCKS with 475 on 2/11
(DF).
A pair of COMMON MERGANSERS at Eckman Lake on 2/20 (RL) is
unusual for that site, and six HOODED MERGANSERS at Beaver Creek
during the 2/17 YB&N field trip (LO et al.) are a good concentration
for February.
A tight flock of 106 RED-BREASTED MERGANSERS at Alsea Bay on 2/4
(DF) is a large, unseasonal concentration.
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.18 RAPTORS
In last month's Sandpiper, a TURKEY VULTURE reported on 1/13 at
Hidden Valley was very early; perhaps the same individual overflew
Bayview Pasture on 1/15 (KM), and one flying over Nute Slough on 2/3
(JJ, JG, & GL) is still earlier than all our arrival dates prior to
1993.
The banded PEREGRINE FALCON that had been hanging out at the YBSJ
was found alive but missing part of its wing on 1/31, so it has been
taken for rehabilitation (fide RL). An adult male Peregrine was
perched and eating a bird on the cliff just north of the Yaquina Head
Lighthouse on 2/12 (RL). On 2/14, an adult male Peregrine was perched
in a tree eating a Sanderling at Drift Creek Pasture at Gorton Road
for RL's field trip.
A WHITE-TAILED KITE hovered over a marsh near south Siletz Bay on
2/3 (JJ, JG, & GL) and 2/14 (RL), and two were at Hidden Valley on 2/3
(JJ, JG, & GL).
One BALD EAGLE was at Yachats on 2/1 (DaW), an adult was flying
south along the ocean beach about a mile north of Yachats on 2/17
(SL), and another adult was at the mouth of Beaver Creek on 2/20 (RL).
One was at Yaquina Head during four days in January, and two were
there on 1/26 (BLM). An adult was perched on a snag at Sallys Bend on
2/11 while it was devouring a Horned Grebe (KM).
Our last report of the RED-SHOULDERED HAWK at Hidden Valley was
on 2/3 (JJ, JG, & GL). A COOPER'S HAWK hunted SW Newport on 1/17 (RB)
and Thornton Creek on 2/24 (DF).
SS notes that the covey of eight NORTHERN BOBWHITES at her
Neskowin (Tillamook Co.) home remained intact through 2/19.
SG discovered a single CHUKAR at NE 6th in Newport on 1/31; this
is our first Lincoln Co. record for this species! This bird is
probably an escapee.
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.19 SHOREBIRDS
Flocks of more than 10 BLACK OYSTERCATCHERS are always noteworthy
because they only occur in winter. At Seal Rocks, KM found a flock of
16 on 12/24 and a flock of 22 roosting on sunny side of rock on 1/1;
at Yachats, she also found a flock of 11 on 1/1.
Drift Creek Pasture at Gorton Road continued to be an excellent
place for shorebirds with eight different species on 2/8 (DP & RL) and
2/14 (RL). Nothing rare, but the presence of BLACK TURNSTONES on both
dates may surprise those who only expect them to be in rocky
intertidal areas along the open coast. On 2/14, there were about
300-400 sandpipers, mostly DUNLIN and SANDERLINGS (RL).
The other known shorebird roost in Lincoln County, Bayview
Pasture, had several dozen Dunlin and about a dozen
BLACK-BELLIED PLOVERS on 1/21 (L&LS) and 125 Dunlin,
10 Black-bellied Plovers, eight WESTERN SANDPIPERS, and two
LEAST SANDPIPERS along with Mallards, American Wigeon, and
Canada Geese on 2/18 (KM).
At south Siletz Bay, about 1,700 small shorebirds were visible on
1/11; about 50% were Sanderlings, 45% were Dunlin, and the remainder
appeared to be Western Sandpipers and Least Sandpipers (KM).
Three ROCK SANDPIPERS were among the "rockpipers" at Seal Rocks
on 12/24 and 1/1 (KM), and our only WHIMBREL reports are for east
Alsea Bay, where L&LS found them during three days in January.
Three COMMON SNIPE at Beaver Creek on 1/15 (KM) and east of the
Newport Airport on 2/24 (BL) are the largest concentrations reported
this month.
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.20 GULLS-ALCIDS
An unconfirmed KUMLIEN'S ICELAND GULL was reported at
Mooloch Beach north, just north of Yaquina Head, on 2/23; it looked
like a Thayer's Gull with a distinctly yellow eye (SD & BT).
A first winter GLAUCOUS GULL was bathing in a freshwater pool at
the YBSJ on 1/4 (AM).
A BLACK-LEGGED KITTIWAKE on the YBSJ on 2/23 with oil-stains on
its belly looked like a black-bellied gull from a distance (SD & BT).
A very rare, slightly oiled PARAKEET AUKLET came ashore at
Agate Beach on 2/24 but died before it could be saved (fide PS). The
specimen has been saved.
Lots of COMMON MURRES were on the water near their nesting areas
at Yaquina Head on 2/12 (RBj), and a PIGEON GUILLEMOT visited the YBSJ
on 1/4 (AM).
Alcid mortalities included fifteen CASSIN'S AUKLETS and
12 RHINOCEROS AUKLETS washed ashore throughout January near
Thiel Creek (BL, S&DB).
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.21 HUMMINGBIRDS
A female HUMMINGBIRD that was probably a RUFOUS was at Road's End
north of Lincoln City on 2/12 (E&CHo). A male Rufous together with a
male ANNA'S HUMMINGBIRD was south of Waldport on 2/13 (D&BM), but none
were present there during the following week. A male Rufous was also
in Yachats on 2/17 (J&JGe) and north Newport on 2/18 (RO); a male and
female were at Neskowin on 2/19 (SS).
We sometimes mistakenly assume that once a species is first seen
that the species is present daily afterwards at that site--that is
often not true as was D&BM's experience with Rufous Hummingbirds this
year near Waldport. At Thornton Creek, DF found that Rufous' were
only present in 30% or less of the 10 days following their first
arrival date during most years, and in one year no Rufous' were seen
at all for 10 days after they "first arrived" (Faxon and Bayer 1989
Studies in Oregon Ornithology 8:5).
Remember--Anna's Hummingbirds winter here, so seeing a hummer now
doesn't mean that Rufous' have returned. Anna's remained at Sandpiper
Village in January (L&LS) and south of Waldport through 2/13, but D&BM
note that females have been uncommon this winter.
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.22 SAPSUCKER-TOWHEE
A RED-BREASTED SAPSUCKER visited north Toledo on 1/24 (P&MD).
Our first TREE SWALLOWS returned to South Beach on 2/14 (EH, fide
DP); they are a bit earlier this year than usual. On 2/16, DeW (fide
CP) also saw some at south Beaver Creek, and, on 2/18, MC et al. saw
them in north Beaver Creek.
Five GRAY JAYS were eating holly berries in Neskowin on 1/24 (SS).
Some birds start singing in winter: a BEWICK'S WREN sang in SW
Newport during at least four days in early and late January (RB), and
a WINTER WREN'S bubbly song brightened Beaver Creek on 2/10 (LO).
Some AMERICAN ROBINS often overwinter, but there is also often a
noticeable influx in January or February. This year, DaW had a flock
of 15 in her Newport yard on 2/1, SS had 44 along with three
VARIED THRUSHES in her Neskowin yard on 2/10, and D&BM also noted that
robins were flocking south of Waldport in mid-February. SS noted that
one of her robins had a white neck and a mostly white head.
Nine WESTERN BLUEBIRDS were along Sunny Ridge Road, just south of
Toledo, on 2/18 (CP), and two were near the town of Siletz on 2/25
(CP).
Our most recent TOWNSEND'S WARBLER was in north Toledo on 2/9
(P&MD), and a PALM WARBLER lingered at the MSC on 2/17 (MC et al.).
A RUFOUS-SIDED TOWHEE sang its trill during the 2/17 YB&N field
trip to Beaver Creek (LO et al.).
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.23 FOX SPARROW
A FOX SPARROW with a white head, white neck ring, and white
blotches on its wings and sides fed with four normally-plumaged Fox
Sparrows at SS's Neskowin home on 2/1.
At their home south of Waldport, D&BM have seen Fox Sparrows in a
range of sizes; they had two large birds that seemed towhee-size and a
smaller bird that was about the size of a House Sparrow. Gabrielson
and Jewett's (1940:583-590) Birds of Oregon discusses the various
subspecies of Fox Sparrows that can differ in size and plumage.
CORRECTION FROM MARCH 1996 SANDPIPER.--I wrote that
p. 583-590 in Gabrielson and Jewett (1940. Birds of Oregon) indicate
that various subspecies of Fox Sparrows can differ in size and
plumage. HN rightfully points out that G&J considered size
differences to be too slight to be of practical use in distinguishing
subspecies. On p. 583, G&J also write: "The Fox Sparrows that appear
in Oregon, particularly in migration, are so variable and represent so
many closely related subspecies that any attempt to separate them in
the field is hopeless."
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.24 JUNCO-SISKIN
Our only SLATE-COLORED DARK-EYED JUNCO was a male at Neskowin on
2/19 (SS).
Other singers include a SONG SPARROW during at least three
different days from 1/10-26 in SW Newport (RB), RED-WINGED BLACKBIRDS
during the 2/17 field trip to Beaver Creek (LO et al.), and HOUSE
FINCHES on 2/11 in Newport (RB).
Our only WESTERN MEADOWLARKS this month were up to five noted at
Yaquina Head during five days in January (BLM).
PINE SISKINS have been locally common this winter; 50-60 have
been at CP's home in Toledo in January, but at other places they have
been absent.
OBSERVERS.--BLM (Bureau of Land Management at Yaquina Head),
Range Bayer, Richard Bjerkvig (RBj), Sara & Don Brown, Marcia Cutler,
Pat & Meagan Dickey, Steve Dowlan, Darrel Faxon, C. Gates,
Janice & Jim Gerdemann (J&JGe), Jeff Gilligan, Steve Gobat,
Eileen & Carl Hoog (E&CHo), Eric Horvath, Jim Johnson, Gerard Lillie,
Sally Lockyear, Bob Loeffel, Roy Lowe, Alan McGie, Kathy Merrifield,
Dawson & Bobby Mohler, Robert Olson, Laimons Osis, Chuck Philo,
Dave Pitkin, Paul Reed, Mike Rivers, Shirley Schwartz,
Lloyd & Luella Seabury, Patty Shreve, Marty Stapanian, Bill Tice,
Dee Weaver (DeW), and Daisy Weir (DaW).
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
96.25 March 1996 Bird Field Notes
Comments in this column about abundance or seasonality refer to
Lincoln County only.
Abbreviations and some Lincoln Co. site locations:
Bayview Pasture=field east of junction of Beaver Creek Road and North
Alsea Bay Road, Beaver Creek=creek flowing through Ona Beach SP,
Eckman Lake=lake just east of Waldport along HWY 34, Idaho Flats=large
embayment just east of the MSC, MSC=Marine Science Center,
Ona Beach SP=park halfway between Newport and Waldport along HWY 101,
Sallys Bend=large embayment east of the LNG tank at Yaquina Bay,
Sandpiper Village=residential area west of HWY 101 and just north of
Waldport, Thiel Creek=creek just south of the Newport Airport south of
South Beach, YBSJ=Yaquina Bay South Jetty.
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.26 CHANGES IN BIRD NAMES
The American Ornithologists' Union (AOU) has recently changed
some bird species and names. Those that affect Lincoln County follow.
The Great Egret has been placed in the same genus (Ardea) as
Great Blue Herons, so those of you who have thought that GE's look
like white herons are right!
Scrub Jays have been split into several species; the one that we
occasionally have is now called the Western Scrub-Jay.
Rufous-sided Towhees have been split; ours is now the
Spotted Towhee.
After lumping Bullock's & Baltimore Orioles into the
Northern Oriole several years ago, the AOU has again split them. In
Lincoln County, we only have records of Bullock's Orioles.
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.27 FLOODED FIELD AT SOUTH BEAVER CREEK
On 2/1, L&LS found many DOWITCHERS with AMERICAN ROBINS,
NORTHERN SHOVELERS, and GREEN-WINGED TEAL.
On 3/10 & 17, KM found 15-24 NORTHERN SHOVELERS,
55-58 GREEN-WINGED TEAL, 10-22 MALLARDS, 2-7 GADWALL,
60-68 AMERICAN WIGEON, one EURASIAN WIGEON, a GREAT BLUE HERON, and
1-2 KILLDEER; only present on 3/17 were six HOODED MERGANSERS,
10 BUFFLEHEADS, and one RING-NECKED DUCK.
It is amazing what birds come to a flooded pasture near the
coast!
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.28 LOON-TUBENOSES
A well-described YELLOW-BILLED LOON was reported at east Alsea
Bay on 3/17 (CL).
On a pelagic trip off Newport on 2/26, RO found NORTHERN FULMARS
and SHEARWATERS, and during the 3/16 pelagic trip off Newport,
MH et al. saw 12 fulmars, 30 SOOTY SHEARWATERS, at least two
SHORT-TAILED SHEARWATERS, and one BLACK-FOOTED ALBATROSS.
The only tubenoses to wash ashore along 4.5 mi of beach at
Thiel Creek in February were seven fulmars (BL, S&DB).
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.29 PELAGIC CORMORANT
A PELAGIC CORMORANT at Eckman Lake on 2/24, was a new bird at
that site for RLo; they are usually found in estuaries or along the
open coast.
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.30 GREAT BLUE HERON
You never can tell where you will find birds. During the
3/24 YB&N field trip, a bird bowsprit on a boat at the Embarcadero
docks along the Newport bayfront turned out to be an immature
GREAT BLUE HERON that felt safe roosting close to people.
Life is hazardous, perhaps particularly if you are a Great Blue
Heron trying to make a living fishing along one of our inland creeks.
Predators can be hidden in the brush along the creek edge, and a heron
is slow taking off and getting away, particularly if it is distracted
by something to eat. This may have been the scenario for the death of
a heron along a creek near Newton Hill between Toledo and the town of
Siletz on 2/10 (JLa). Coyotes were seen and heard that day, but there
were also bobcats in the area, so it is not clear what preyed on the
heron (JLa).
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.31 WATERFOWL
The TRUMPETER SWAN apparently abandoned Eckman Lake during the
floods of '96 and moved just east of the Lake along Alsea Bay, since
it was spotted there in mid- and late March (DW, fide CP; RLo).
The Gr. WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE at Eckman Lake continued to linger
through 3/5 (RLo); a migrating flock flew over the MSC at 5:40 AM on
3/14 (DP).
A CACKLING CANADA GOOSE has been hanging out with domestic geese
at Idaho Point Marina east of Idaho Flats in March (JLe; DP).
14 Cackling and 100 Western Canada Geese along with one hybrid
Canada X domestic goose were at Bayview Pasture on 2/25 (KM).
Herring spawned on plants in the salt marsh at the west side of
Idaho Flats, and BRANT, SCAUP, gulls, and crows were feeding on the
eggs on 3/5 (RLo). On 3/10, KM saw a congregation of birds at
Sallys Bend that indicate that there may have also been a herring
spawn there.
A BLACK BRANT at Bayview Pasture with 81 Canada and
16 white-fronted geese on 3/17 (KM) is, I believe, only our second
good record of Brant away from the coast or lower portions of
estuaries.
Pairs of WOOD DUCKS have been showing up in a variety of spots,
including Beaver Creek on 2/25 (SL), Ona Beach Log Pond on 3/3 (KM),
and Yachats River on 3/30 (BB).
The MANDARIN DUCK saga continues. BB reports that the male that
had been at Quiet Water resort in Yachats in the spring of 1995 was
also present during the summer of 1995 but was not recognizable as a
male Mandarin because it was molting and in eclipse plumage. It was
still at Quiet Water on 3/31 (BB).
Our latest EURASIAN WIGEON was spotted by RN at Sallys Bend
during the 3/24 YB&N field trip. A male wigeon that was possibly an
Eurasian X AMERICAN WIGEON was at Bayview Pasture on 2/25 (KM).
Our latest NORTHERN SHOVELER was at the Alsea Bay area on 3/17
(CL).
Flocks of GREATER SCAUP migrated north past Yaquina Head and
Seal Rocks on 3/3 (KM).
HARLEQUIN DUCKS have become rather scarce at Yaquina Head in
recent years, but at least one was noted there at Quarry Cove on 3/9 &
10 (BLM). They were also discovered at Seal Rock during four days in
February (L&LS; KM).
The only BARROW'S GOLDENEYE reports were at east Alsea Bay on
2/20 (L&LS) and 2/25 and 3/3 & 10 (KM). The only OLDSQUAW was a male
at the YBSJ on 2/25 (KM).
On 3/24, TM found four male and 5-6 female HOODED MERGANSERS at
Newport Reservoir, which is a large concentration for this time of
year.
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.32 RAPTORS
At Yaquina Head, an adult BALD EAGLE flew over Colony Rock on
3/3, scaring off at least 2,300 Common Murres (KM), and another adult
was carrying nesting material on 3/8 (SG)--no nests are known for that
area. A pair of adult Bald Eagles were about a half mile up the
Yachats River on 3/31 (BB), and singleton adults have often been noted
around Yachats in March (BB); again, no nest is known for that area.
An immature was riding the thermals over Cape Perpetua on 3/25 (J&ST).
On 3/22, 1-2 OSPREY perched near where an Osprey nest at South
Beach State Park had blown down last winter (BB; BL). The nearby
Mike Miller Park nest was also lost this winter, but, hopefully, they
will rebuild. Time will tell. Other Osprey reports were of one over
Newport on 3/23 (RLo), 1-2 at Newport Reservoir on 3/24 (TM) and
3/27 (BL), and one at Ona Beach SP and Yaquina Bay on 3/30 (G&RJ).
On 2/29, BL heard a great commotion among the crows outside his
Thiel Creek home. He looked and saw either a Cooper's Hawk or
Peregrine Falcon on the ground with a crow. Bob went to get his
binocs to get a better look and when he returned--you guessed it!
They were gone . . .
A COOPER'S HAWK was at Beaver Creek on 2/1 (L&LS). Another dove
after but missed a smaller bird, and then conveniently perched on a
cable for a close study south of Waldport on 3/5 (BM). And a female
was at the MSC on 3/30 (RO).
At Yaquina Head, one PEREGRINE FALCON visited on 2/25 (BLM), and
another on 3/10 scared off at least 2,400 Common Murres atop
Colony Rock (KM). A Peregrine was soaring in thermals at Lincoln City
on 2/29 (GK).
An AMERICAN KESTREL continued to winter at Yaquina Head and was
noted during 12 days in February (BLM).
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.33 GROUSE-TERN
A BLUE GROUSE hooting up at Crown Point in NE Lincoln County on
3/16 (CP) was our only report for them.
A WHIMBREL was at Yaquina Head during three days in early
February (BLM), which is unseasonal for them at that particular
location. They are more likely to be at estuaries in winter (e.g., at
least one was at east Alsea Bay during six days in February [L&LS;
KM]), and along the open coast during spring and fall migrations.
Our first CASPIAN TERN of the spring was at Eckman Lake on 3/22
(RLo); they are generally first found the first week of April.
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.34 ALCIDS
MARBLED MURRELETS were calling as they flew over SS's Neskowin
home (Tillamook Co.) on 2/27. 1-6 were at Yaquina Head on 2/25 and
3/17, at Yachats on 3/10, and Seal Rocks on 3/17 (KM).
198 and 200 PIGEON GUILLEMOTS were noted at Yaquina Head on 3/17
(KM) and 3/30 (RO), respectively. These may seem like high counts,
but there have been similar counts there in previous springs.
A TUFTED PUFFIN at Sutton Lake (Lane Co.) in February (fide RW)
is unseasonal and out-of-place.
On 3/30 at Yaquina Head, some COMMON MURRES atop Colony Rock
alternated bowing and standing in unison, so that they looked like
they were doing a "wave" as seen in sports stadiums (RO)!
During the 3/16 pelagic trip off Newport, alcids that MH et al.
saw were 21 RHINOCEROS AUKLETS, three PIGEON GUILLEMOTS, three pairs
of MARBLED MURRELETS, and 140 COMMON MURRES. 1-2 Rhinos were also at
Yachats on 3/10 and at Yaquina Head on 3/17 (KM).
Reports for dead alcids in February that were beached at
Thiel Creek included: two ANCIENT MURRELETS, five CASSIN'S AUKLETS,
two RHINOCEROS AUKLETS, and two COMMON MURRES (BL, S&DB).
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.35 PIGEON-WREN
A BAND-TAILED PIGEON first visited BB's feeder in Yachats on
3/30.
RUFOUS HUMMINGBIRDS arrive at different times at different sites
in Lincoln County. The first one at RLe's Sandpiper Village feeder
arrived on 2/23. Rufous and ANNA'S HUMMINGBIRDS were together until
at least early March at Sandpiper Village (RLe) and late March in
Yachats (BB) and south of Waldport (D&BM). D&BM note that there were
at least two male and one female Anna's and one male and two female
Rufous' in early March; the first female Rufous arrived at their home
south of Waldport on 3/2.
A PILEATED WOODPECKER at JTe's Neotsu home was the first one in
20 years there!
RW had a gorgeous picture of an ACORN WOODPECKER at her Florence
(Lane Co.) feeder during the summer of 1995! It was the first time
that she has seen one there; we have no records of them for Lincoln
County.
A SAY'S PHOEBE near the MSC on 3/10 (DF) is one of only a handful
of records we have.
Our only GRAY JAY this month was at Neskowin on 2/26 (SS). A
STELLER'S JAY was imitating the call of a Red-tailed Hawk in Toledo on
2/26 and 3/8 (P&MD).
A WINTER WREN sang and carried nesting material in north Toledo
on 3/8 (P&MD).
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.36 THRUSHES-ORIOLE
Some AMERICAN ROBINS overwinter, but a flock at LL's Waldport
home on 2/1 may have been immigrants. Large flocks frequented north
Toledo in late February and early March (P&MD).
The latest HERMIT THRUSH at P&MD's Toledo home was on 3/1, but
one lingered to at least 3/24 at Yachats (SL). Last reports of a
TOWNSEND'S WARBLER included two at Toledo on 3/1 (P&MD) and at least
one south of Waldport on 3/2 (D&BM).
A WILSON'S WARBLER reported at Seal Rock on 3/22 (J&ST) is two
weeks earlier than our previous earliest record and may have wintered
in the area rather than be a spring migrant.
A pair of SPOTTED (formerly Rufous-sided) TOWHEES were at
Mike Miller Park on 3/2 (KP).
A SLATE-COLORED DARK-EYED JUNCO lingered in Newport to 3/12 (RB),
and our latest WESTERN MEADOWLARK reports were of 3-4 at Yaquina Head
on 2/14 & 19 (BLM).
An immature male BULLOCK'S ORIOLE in Newport on 3/24 & 24 (R&TN)
is a month too early to be a spring migrant--it may have overwintered
like one did during the 1968/1969 winter.
OBSERVERS.--BLM (Bureau of Land Management at Yaquina Head),
Betty Bahn, Range Bayer, Sara & Don Brown, Pat & Meagan Dickey,
Darrel Faxon, Steve Gobat, Matt Hunter, Gwen & Ron Jameson, Georges
Kleinbaum, Janet Lamberson (JLa), Lola Landis, Ruthann LeBaron (RLe),
Janet Leonard (JLe), Sally Lockyear, Bob Loeffel, Roy Lowe (RLo),
Chris Lundberg, Kathy Merrifield, Dawson & Bobby Mohler, Terry Morse,
Harry Nehls, Robin & Tom Nelson, Robert Olson, Katherine Peyton,
Chuck Philo, Dave Pitkin, Shirley Schwartz, Lloyd & Luella Seabury,
Jim Tedrow (JTe), Jim & Shirley Thielen, Ruth Warren, and Dee Weaver.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
96.37 April 1996 Bird Field Notes
Comments in this column about abundance or seasonality refer to
Lincoln County only.
Abbreviations and some Lincoln Co. site locations: Bayshore
Beach=ocean beach along North Alsea Bay Spit, Bayview Pasture=field
east of junction of Beaver Creek Road and North Alsea Bay Road,
Beaver Creek=creek flowing through Ona Beach SP, Eckman Lake=lake just
east of Waldport along HWY 34, Idaho Flats=large embayment just east
of the MSC, MSC=Marine Science Center, Sallys Bend=large embayment
east of the LNG tank at Yaquina Bay, Sandpiper Village=residential
area west of HWY 101 and just north of Waldport, Thiel Creek=creek
just south of the Newport Airport south of South Beach,
Thornton Creek=creek between Toledo and Eddyville, YBSJ=Yaquina Bay
South Jetty.
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.38 GREBES-HERONS
Yaquina Head was the place for HORNED GREBES with 73 on 3/24
(KM), 35-55 on 3/31 (KM), 45 on 4/6 (RK), 60 on 4/8 (KM), but only 25
on 4/14 and one on 4/21 (KM); these are large concentrations for there
and a sign of migration; KM noted that most of them on 3/24 were in
nonbreeding plumage. At Sallys Bend, KM found another 80 on 3/24.
3 EARED GREBES were at Yaquina Head with the Horned's on 3/24
(KM).
On 12/4/1995, BL found an unusual bird dead along his Thiel Creek
beached bird transect. He brought the carcass, which consisted of a
pair of wings, sternum, one leg and foot, and tail to RL & DP, who
recognized it as a Pterodroma petrel, but not a Mottled Petrel, the
Pterodroma most to be expected here. They sent the remains to the
Smithsonian, and RL received a response in mid-April. At the
Smithsonian, Richard Banks identified it as being either a
COOK'S PETREL (Pterodroma cookii) or MASATIERRA PETREL
(P. defilippiana); some authorities combine these into one species.
Banks is going to try to compare it to specimens in other museums to
see which of these two it is. Cook's Petrel is not listed for Oregon,
and Masatierra Petrel is not known for North America and possibly not
for the Northern Hemisphere. It just goes to show that you can never
tell what will wash ashore and be found through diligent effort!
A PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATER flying south past Seal Rocks on 4/8 (KM)
appears to be our first record before August.
A PELAGIC CORMORANT carrying nesting material flew up under the
Alsea Bay Bridge on 3/30 (RL).
There appears to be a subtle spring and fall migration of some
DOUBLE-CRESTED CORMORANTS; the problem is in distinguishing migratory
flocks from those flying to or from roosting or feeding areas. On
4/8, KM spotted a flock of 22 flying north over Beaver Creek near the
Highway 101 Bridge, and, on 4/15, RL saw a flight of 55 flying from
south to the northeast over Yaquina Bay; these flocks were probably
migrating.
Although a very few GREEN HERONS may winter near Toledo or rarely
at Eckman Lake, most are migratory, and DP saw one at Idaho Flats on
4/25.
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.39 WATERFOWL
A BLACK BRANT grazed at Bayview Pasture only on 3/17 & 24 (KM);
usually they are in a bay or along the coast. On 3/24, it was
accompanied by 16 GR. WHITE-FRONTED GEESE and 80 CANADA GEESE (KM).
A pair of CINNAMON TEAL graced Sallys Bend on 3/31 (RO).
Newport Reservoir, especially the "middle" reservoir, is a
favored place for breeding WOOD DUCKS, and, on 3/31, RO found five
pairs there.
Seal Rocks is a good spot for HARLEQUIN DUCKS and L&LS found them
during four days in March with a peak count of 15 males and five
females on 3/19; this count is a record high for Seal Rocks in March.
On other days they found 2-9 Harlequins.
Latest reports include BARROW'S GOLDENEYE at east Alsea Bay on
3/11 (L&LS), NORTHERN SHOVELER at south Beaver Creek on 3/18 (L&LS),
EURASIAN WIGEON at Sallys Bend on 3/24 (KM), OLDSQUAW at Yachats on
3/31 (KM), and GADWALL at Eckman Lake on 4/21 (KM).
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.40 RAPTORS
An OSPREY was at Mike Miller Park in South Beach on 3/25 (MH) and
4/13 (PR), and one was incubating in a nest there on 4/21 (EH).
A pair of adult BALD EAGLES was at Beaver Creek on 4/6 (LO) and
4/20 (BH). An adult eagle reported at Newport Reservoir on 4/14 (RM &
GS) appears to be only our second record of them at that site; one
adult was also noted there on 4/13/1986. 1-2 eagles were also at
Yaquina Head during six March days (BLM), an adult was just north of
Yachats on 3/24 and 4/17 (D&BM), and 1-2 adults were near Yaquina John
Point south of Waldport on 3/25 & 30 (D&BM).
Our only WHITE-TAILED KITE was at Bayview Pasture on 3/24 (KM).
Along the coast, brown (female or immature male)
NORTHERN HARRIERS predominated during winter, but a male was at the
MSC on 4/16 & 25 (DP).
PEREGRINE FALCON sightings picked up, with one being spotted at
Yaquina Head during seven days in March (BLM), and AMERICAN KESTRELS
were also out at the Head during eight March days (BLM).
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.41 GROUSE-SHOREBIRDS
A RUFFED GROUSE drummed at Beaver Creek during the first week of
April (LO), and a pair of MOUNTAIN QUAIL were near BSl's Yachats home
on 3/18.
A very water-logged CHUKAR stood along the road on Cape Lookout
(Tillamook Co.) during the 4/22 storm (RL & DP).
RL found a dead SORA in the driveway of his home near Eckman Lake
on 4/26. It is possible that it fell out of a grille of a
vehicle--since this is our only Sora report this year, maybe we're
looking in the wrong places for them. Maybe they have adapted to the
loss of wetlands by changing their habitat to vehicle grilles??
An AMERICAN GOLDEN-PLOVER was at the YBSJ during the 4/23 storm
along with a lot of other shorebirds that were hunkered down near the
road (CP).
The first MARBLED GODWIT was at Idaho Flats on 4/25 (DP), and our
last COMMON SNIPE was at Beaver Creek on 4/14 (KM).
1-2 WHIMBRELS overwintered, and the first signs of immigration
were flocks of five at Sallys Bend on 4/8 and of nine at Bayshore
Beach on 4/14 (JG & BO).
On 4/23, a RED PHALAROPE in nonbreeding plumage was along the
YBSJ (RL).
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.42 GULLS-ALCIDS
On 4/24, DP found a WESTERN GULL at Yaquina Bay with an orange
plastic band above the USFWS metal leg band; he read the number and
discovered it had been banded at Point Reyes, near San Francisco. A
lot of our gulls have been banded there.
A flock of 74 BONAPARTE'S GULLS that were mostly in breeding
plumage were preening and occasionally displaying along the YBSJ on
4/23 (RL).
An influx of BLACK-LEGGED KITTIWAKES often seems to occur in
spring, and one appeared on 4/4 at Idaho Flats, where they are
uncommon to rare (RL).
There apparently was an invasion of COMMON TERNS on 4/23 with
three at the YBSJ (CP), and two adults in breeding plumage along with
two other small, unidentified terns were also at Idaho Flats (DP).
Few birds washed ashore in March along 4.5 mi of beach near Thiel
Creek, but BL and S&DB did find two CASSIN'S AUKLETS and one COMMON
MURRE. The first murres seen atop Colony Rock at Yaquina Head were
spotted on 3/3 (BLM).
KM may have record counts of PIGEON GUILLEMOTS for Yaquina Head
this spring with 477 on 3/24, 331 on 3/31, 479 on 4/8, 452 on 4/14,
and 294 on 4/21. 2-4 RHINOCEROS AUKLETS were also at Yaquina Head on
4/8, 14, & 21 (KM).
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.43 PIGEON-WOODPECKERS
Two BAND-TAILED PIGEONS were busy eating male catkins of a Sitka
spruce tree at Mike Miller Park on 4/21 (EH).
The first spring MOURNING DOVE was at Nelscott in Lincoln City on
4/21 (RG).
Our only owl report was a NO. SAW-WHET OWL calling at Beaver
Creek the first week of April (LO).
This spring's first VAUX'S SWIFT flew around the MSC on 4/25
(RL).
A RUFOUS HUMMINGBIRD first visited AD's Newport feeder on 3/25.
BSl notes that ANNA'S HUMMINGBIRDS appear to be more common this year
than in the past at her Yachats home. At Sandpiper Village, Anna's
were not seen after 3/8 (L&LS). At their Seabrook Lane home south of
Waldport, D&BM write on 4/18: "Hummingbird activities peaked around
March 25 and 26 when we put up a second feeder. One feeder was
defended heroically by a single Anna's male. The other feeder was
enjoyed by three different Rufous females, sometimes together. The
Red Currant was being used daily by a Rufous male. But all activity
diminished over the next few days, and now we rarely see or hear
either species."
A NORTHERN FLICKER has been drumming on the side of RG's home in
Nelscott in mid-April, so she doesn't need an alarm clock to wake up!
They sometimes do that in spring . . .
A RED-BREASTED SAPSUCKER was at south Beaver Creek on 3/18
(L&LS); some will remain to nest.
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.44 SWALLOWS-EVENING GROSBEAKS
First swallow reports include a BARN SWALLOW at the MSC on 4/2
(JG) and a few days later in Waldport (LL), CLIFF SWALLOW at Waldport
on 4/7 (DF), and NO. ROUGH-WINGED SWALLOW at Beaver Creek on 4/14
(KM).
A TOWNSEND'S SOLITAIRE perched on a wire at Beaver Creek on 4/20
(LO) is rare as we have less than a half dozen April records.
AMERICAN ROBINS were abundant in LL's Waldport yard on 2/13--they
may have been part of a spring influx.
Spring arrivals include ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLER at Thornton Creek
on 4/4 (DF), WILSON'S WARBLER at Thornton Creek on 4/9 (DF), and
COMMON YELLOWTHROAT at Beaver Creek on 4/21 (KM). The Wilson's
reported on 3/22 in the last Sandpiper may have wintered.
Spring departures include many TOWNSEND'S WARBLERS at Eckman Lake
on 4/26 (RL), and a WESTERN MEADOWLARK at Yaquina Head on 3/28 (BLM).
Meadowlarks were not very common here this winter.
More spring arrivals include BROWN-HEADED COWBIRD at Beaver Creek
on 4/21 (KM), PURPLE FINCHES at Sandpiper Village on 3/24 (L&LS), and
EVENING GROSBEAKS at CP's Toledo home on 4/7.
OBSERVERS.--BLM (Bureau of Land Management at Yaquina Head),
Sara & Don Brown, Annetta Dunlap, Darrel Faxon, Ruth Goodrich,
Jill Grover, Bill Hastie, Mary Holbert, Eric Horvath, Robert Kelsh,
Lola Landis, Bob Loeffel, Roy Lowe, Kathy Merrifield, Ruby Miller,
Dawson & Bobby Mohler, Bori Olla, Robert Olson, Laimons Osis,
Chuck Philo, Dave Pitkin, Paul Reed, Gerti Schramm,
Lloyd & Luella Seabury, and Betty Slauson (BSl).
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
96.45 May 1996 Bird Field Notes
Comments in this column about abundance or seasonality refer to
Lincoln County only.
Abbreviations and some Lincoln Co. site locations: Bayshore
Beach=ocean beach along North Alsea Bay Spit, Bayview Pasture=field
east of junction of Beaver Creek Road and North Alsea Bay Road,
Beaver Creek=creek flowing through Ona Beach SP, Eckman Lake=lake just
east of Waldport along HWY 34, Idaho Flats=large embayment just east
of the MSC, MSC=Marine Science Center, MSC Lagoon=lagoon just north of
MSC Public Parking Lot, Sallys Bend=large embayment east of the LNG
tank at Yaquina Bay, Thiel Creek=creek just south of the Newport
Airport south of South Beach, Thornton Creek=creek between Toledo and
Eddyville, YBSJ=Yaquina Bay South Jetty.
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.46 SALUTE TO LLOYD & LUELLA SEABURY
During the past few years, the Seabury's have contributed the
most Lincoln County field notes. For example, during 27 days in April
they observed and shared about 540 records for their home, Alsea Bay,
Beaver Creek, and/or Seal Rocks! Because of space limitations, not
all their field notes could be put into the Sandpiper, but they have
never complained. They have been patient, thorough, and consistent.
However, they are going to take a break from such avid birding,
and we wish them well!
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.47 GREBES-PELICANS
Two PIED-BILLED GREBES were calling and displaying along north
Beaver Creek on 4/28 (DF), but they have not been documented as
nesting there.
Tis the season to see birds in breeding plumage! On 4/29, SM
found PACIFIC LOONS, COMMON LOONS, and RED-NECKED GREBES in breeding
plumage at the YBSJ.
A decomposed BLACK-FOOTED ALBATROSS was found washed ashore at
South Beach on 5/11 (BW); the same day, 68 were noted about 4-21 miles
offshore of Depoe Bay (MH et al.).
Four NORTHERN FULMARS (including one that was very white) were
viewed off Depoe Bay during the 5/11 pelagic trip (GG & MH et al.).
A LEACH'S STORM-PETREL was found beached at Seal Rocks on 4/28
(DF), and BL and S&DB found three along 4.5 miles of beach near Thiel
Creek in April. In most years, no Leach's are found beached at
Thiel Creek.
The first BROWN PELICANS included one at Yaquina Head on 4/10
(BLM), two offshore of Newport on 4/30 (RO), one at Yaquina Head on
5/2 (RO), three in Lincoln Co. on 5/10 (BT, BBe, & DF), and nine at
Yaquina Head, three at Seal Rocks, and one at Yachats on 5/19 (KM).
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.48 GR. WHITE-FRONTED GEESE
White-front's often migrate west over the Coast Range during
spring (1995 Oregon Birds 21[1]:10-12), but they usually re-orient and
fly in a northerly direction upon reaching the coast (e.g., about 30
were flying north low over Idaho Flats on 4/30 and 20 flew north over
Salishan Spit on 5/8 [RL]).
However, on 4/27, RL saw a flock of 150 and later a flock of
325 flying west over Alsea Bay at such high altitude that they were
only identified by call, and they continued westward when they reached
the ocean. And, on 5/8, RL saw a flock of 120 flying towards the
west/northwest over Seal Rocks.
The geese flying W or NW may have been taking a Great Circle
Route to their nesting areas in Alaska.
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.49 WESTERN CANADA GEESE
Since non-native Western Canada Geese were introduced to the
Oregon central coast in 1983, the status of Canada Geese has
dramatically changed here.
One major change has been that these geese have started nesting
here; the first brood (seven goslings) this year was noted on 4/12 at
Eckman Lake (MA).
Another change is that starting in 1994, flocks of northerly
migrating Western Canada Geese have been observed here in late May.
The first flocks were noted on 5/18 in 1994 and on 5/20 in 1995. This
year, RL detected the first northerly flying flock on 5/17; flights
were also observed on 5/23, 25, 29, & 30 (RL, DP, NM); last year,
these flights were reported through 6/1. These geese may be failed
breeders or nonbreeders, but it is unclear where they may be going and
it may not be the Columbia River, since RL & DP saw them fly north
over Astoria on 5/25 this year.
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.50 OTHER WATERFOWL
In Oregon, BLACK BRANT only regularly overwinter at Netarts and
Tillamook Bays in Tillamook Co. and Yaquina Bay, but during spring
migration, they occasionally show up elsewhere. For example, about
20 were at the Marine Gardens at Otter Rock on 5/6 (MW, fide DP), and
75 were there on 5/8 (DP); one was at the mouth of Beaver Creek on 5/7
(LO); and 5-25 were west of the Alsea Bay bridge on 5/8 & 11 (RL) and
5/13 (SL). The latest were 42 at YBSJ on 5/30 (DP).
The first brood of WOOD DUCKS graced Eckman Lake on 5/25 (RL).
The male MANDARIN DUCK was still looking for a mate at Quiet
Water development in Yachats in mid-May (BBa).
A male COMMON MERGANSER was along the Yachats River on 5/24
(BBa); they probably nest there.
On 4/10 & 26, L&LS found one female HARLEQUIN DUCK with 3-4 males
at Seal Rocks; such a skewed sex ratio appears to be regular at Seal
Rocks but not Yaquina Head (1994 Journal of Oregon Ornithology 3:245).
Last records include: GREEN-WINGED TEAL and NORTHERN PINTAIL at
Idaho Flats on 4/28 (KM), 10 NORTHERN SHOVELERS at Sallys Bend on 4/29
(RO), two GADWALL at YBSJ on 4/30 (RO), an OLDSQUAW at Yaquina Bay on
4/30 (PN), a pair of CINNAMON TEAL at Zeek's Marsh at Beaver Creek on
5/12 (KM) and 5/13 (SL), and four BUFFLEHEADS at Sallys Bend on 5/19
(KM).
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.51 BALD EAGLES
Bald Eagles may be becoming more abundant along the Oregon Coast,
and this may affect other bird species. An immature or an adult Bald
Eagle took a Brandt's Cormorant or Common Murre at Colony Rock at
Yaquina Head on 4/23, 25, and 26 (BLM); this kind of predation has not
been reported there in the past.
On 5/2, an immature eagle was attacking cormorants at Cox Rock,
just south of Sea Lion Caves (Lane Co.), where there were surprisingly
no cormorants nesting, although there were 800 or more nests there
last year (RL). RL wrote: "As [the eagle] rounded a cliff, it flushed
a Pelagic Cormorant and stooped on it. [The eagle] chased it out to
sea and just before it would have nailed the cormorant, the cormorant
folded its wings and crashed safely into the water." Too bad, RL
didn't have a video camera handy!
In recent years, as many as 10 have been at the seabird colonies
at Three Arch Rocks (Tillamook Co.) (RL & DP) and caused a delay in
the nesting of Common Murres.
On 5/26, a pair of adults were circling high over Yachats (BBa);
it is unknown if they have a nest site in the Yachats area. On 5/19,
a pair of adults were also soaring together and calling over Alsea Bay
(KM).
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.52 OTHER RAPTORS-COOT
A WHITE-TAILED KITE flew over the MSC on 4/29 (RO et al.).
An OSPREY was incubating at a new nest near the South Beach State
Park in mid-May (BBa; TM); RL notes that it is a little further north
of their nest last year that was blown down in this winter's storms.
A SHARP-SHINNED HAWK was chased by a crow on 5/3 at the MSC (RL),
and a COOPER'S HAWK flew by the Oregon Coast Aquarium in South Beach
on 5/11 (JS).
Last dates for PEREGRINE FALCONS were 5/5 for an adult over Alsea
Bay (RL) and 5/19 for an adult at Yaquina Head (KM).
The last AMERICAN KESTREL was noted at Yaquina Head on 4/27
(BLM).
An uncommon CALIFORNIA QUAIL was at Thornton Creek on 4/20 (DF),
who writes: "What is the origin of these strays? Do you know if the
same people that raise pheasants in Siletz also raise and release
quail? I haven't seen a California Quail [at Thornton Creek] for a
number of years and am somewhat suspicious that such birds do not
originate from a wild breeding population." If you know, please
contact DF or RB.
Two MOUNTAIN QUAIL visited north Newport on 5/7 (R&TN), and BLUE
GROUSE were hooting on Grass Mt. (19 miles east of Waldport in Benton
Co.) on 5/4 (CP).
The NORTHERN BOBWHITES that have lingered at SS's Neskowin
(Tillamook Co.) home for two months make a variety of whistled songs
but do not call "bobwhite." Although there were originally eight, now
only 1-2 are seen at a time (SS).
A SORA was discovered at Beaver Creek on 4/21 (DF), 4/28 (DF &
LO), and 5/7 (LO); and they were reported for somewhere in Lincoln Co.
on 5/10 (BT, BBe, & DF). Soras are a Lincoln County Review Species
with less than 10 records during 1983-1992 and no June or July records
then. However, they are probably more common than our records
indicate.
Our latest AMERICAN COOT was reported at east Alsea Bay on 4/18
(L&LS).
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.53 PEEP MIGRATION
There may have been an exceptionally large influx of peeps (i.e.,
small shorebirds) in at least Yaquina Bay during migration this
spring. In past years, the peak peep migration occurs during the last
few days of April and first few days of May with a maximum count at
Yaquina Bay embayments during 1984-1985 of 4,760 peeps on 5/2/1984
(RB). However, peep numbers at Yaquina Bay are extremely variable
during peak migration so comparing abundance among years is tenuous.
On 4/28, KM counted about 2,200 peeps along about a half mile of
Bayshore Beach; the vast majority were WESTERN SANDPIPERS, with fifty
or less DUNLIN and SANDERLINGS. KM examined where they were foraging,
and it appeared that they were feeding on amphipods, mole crabs, and
especially red worms. At one site where there appeared to be mole
crabs, six CALIFORNIA GULLS were amongst the peeps and fighting for
space with each other to feed.
On 4/29, DP noted about 3,100 peeps at just part of Idaho Flats;
they were mostly Western Sandpipers with a few Dunlin and
LEAST SANDPIPERS. On 4/30, DP & RL independently estimated about
10,000 peeps at just Idaho Flats using a Questar telescope. Some of
the Western Sandpipers have come afar--DP reports that an injured one
brought to the ODFW on 4/29 had been banded in Ecuador.
On 4/30 at the ocean beach at Lost Creek State Park just south of
Thiel Creek, DG saw 240 peeps, most of which were Sanderlings with
some SEMIPALMATED PLOVERS. The first Semipalmated's of the spring
were reported at Bayshore Beach on 4/24 (L&LS).
On 5/1 at Siletz Bay, FS estimated about 500 Least Sandpipers
that were accompanied by a few Dunlin and Semipalmated Plovers.
On 5/4 at south Alsea Bay and 5/5 at Seal Rocks, MR estimated
flocks of 25-100 or more passing every minute.
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.54 OTHER SHOREBIRDS
During May, SPOTTED SANDPIPERS show up at a lot of saltwater
sites (including the rocky open coast), where they aren't found in
winter; this spring JS discovered one at Idaho Flats on 5/12.
Another spring AMERICAN GOLDEN-PLOVER was spotted here--this one
two miles south of Waldport along the ocean beach on 4/28 (DF).
Shorebird arrivals include: 1-3 RED KNOTS along a beach two miles
south of Waldport (DF) and at Idaho Flats on 4/28 (KM),
RUDDY TURNSTONES in breeding plumage at Yaquina Head on 4/28 (KM) and
Idaho Flats on 4/29 (SM), and a WANDERING TATTLER at Seal Rock on
5/1 (RO). Thirteen Ruddy Turnstones were at Seal Rocks on 5/7 (LO), a
favored site for them during spring migration; 1-4 were also south of
Waldport and at Idaho Flats on 5/12 (JS).
On 4/28, 25 SHORT-BILLED DOWITCHERS foraged along a beach south
of Waldport (DF), and 20 LONG-BILLED DOWITCHERS were at Sallys Bend
(KM). 79 dowitcher sp. visited a part of Idaho Flats on 4/29 (DP).
1-5 MARBLED GODWITS were with Whimbrels at Tillicum Beach south
of Waldport and at Idaho Flats on 5/11 (JS).
Several flocks of RED-NECKED PHALAROPES were migrating north
offshore of Lincoln City on 5/1 (FS).
COMMON SNIPE were last at Zeek's Marsh at Beaver Creek on 4/28
(KM), although they nest in high elevation marshes in NE Lincoln Co.
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.55 JAEGER-ALCIDS
A weak, oiled LONG-TAILED JAEGER was at the west side of Idaho
Flats on 5/19 (JH, fide HN), 5/20 (fide HN), 5/21 (P&MD), 5/23 (RL),
and 5/24 (HP); we only have about a half dozen records of them--this
is our most observed one in the past 50 years.
A HEERMANN'S GULL at Yaquina Head on 5/19 (KM) is early, but not
surprisingly so because they often follow Brown Pelicans, which have
already been often reported.
Two BONAPARTE'S GULLS in winter plumage and one in breeding
plumage were at Idaho Flats on 4/29 (SM); on 4/30, RO et al. saw about
a hundred off Newport, and, on 5/1, FS spotted a flock of 75 in
breeding plumage flying north offshore of Lincoln City. The early
spring influx is first of Bonaparte's in breeding plumage, then some
in nonbreeding plumage appear, and a few, usually in nonbreeding
plumage, often oversummer here in small numbers.
Three SABINE'S GULLS were counted off Depoe Bay on 5/11 (MH et
al.).
A BLACK-LEGGED KITTIWAKE visited Bayshore Beach on 4/11 (L&LS)
and Yaquina Head on 4/27 (BLM).
About a half dozen ARCTIC TERNS and COMMON TERNS were spotted
offshore of Depoe Bay on 5/11 (MH et al.), and 12 Common Terns were at
Yaquina Bay on 5/13 (fide HN).
A pair of TUFTED PUFFINS at Colony Rock at Yaquina Head on
4/27 (BLM) were the first reported.
2-3 RHINOCEROS AUKLETS were at Yaquina Head on 4/28 (KM) and
4/30 (RO), seven were offshore of Depoe Bay on 5/11 (MH et al.), and
13 were at Yaquina Head (a high count for there) on 5/12 (KM).
It may seem odd to see BAND-TAILED PIGEONS at bird feeders, but
DO had six at her Tidewater feeder in mid-May, and R&TN had two at
their Newport feeder on 5/8.
On 5/12, KM counted 12 MARBLED MURRELETS at Yaquina Head and
117 at Seal Rocks resting on the ocean; in addition, 14 flew north
past Seal Rocks.
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.56 DOVE-SWIFT
A pair of MOURNING DOVES has been frequent at JB's home between
Newport and Toledo.
A NORTHERN SAW-WHET OWL calling at Beaver Creek on 4/28 (LO) was
our only owl report.
A VAUX'S SWIFT became trapped in RL's chimney pipe on 5/20 and
had to be captured and released outside his Waldport home.
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.57 RUFOUS HUMMINGBIRDS
We know relatively much more about rare species than our everyday
species. MA writes the following: "On two occasions (4/10 near
Beaver/Blaine [Tillamook Co.] and on 4/22 near Siltcoos Recreation
Site [coastal Lane Co.]), I was under a bridge looking for bats when a
female RUFOUS HUMMINGBIRD came under the bridge and began 'eating' the
soil for approximately 15 seconds, then flew away. On 4/22, another
female Rufous came along and chased the first female away, perched on
a rock and began 'eating' as well for about 15 seconds, then flew off.
To the best of my knowledge, there was at least two, maybe even three
female Rufous Hummingbirds under that bridge taking turns lapping at
the soil. Investigation of the soil revealed a sandy clay mixture
(?). My guess is that they are obtaining some mineral from the soil
important for reproduction. This makes sense, but have you heard of
this behavior in hummingbirds before?" If you have heard of this
please contact MA or RB.
On 4/17 & 27, MA also saw a female Rufous exploring cracks and
crevices that are usually full of spider webs around his Waldport
home. MA writes: "Either she was gathering webs for her nest or was
eating the insects trapped in the web (or the spiders!)."
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.58 CALLIOPE HUMMINGBIRD-BUSHTIT
A displaying CALLIOPE HUMMINGBIRD was reported near Diamond Peak,
about 6.5 miles east of Cutler City (Lincoln City) on 5/5 (PB & RG;
fide SD). We may not have a confirmed record of them in Lincoln
County.
A HAIRY WOODPECKER was at a nest cavity in a tree just east of
the Newport Airport on 5/14 & 23 (BL). A PILEATED was flying and
calling in north Newport on 4/28 (SG).
A NORTHERN FLICKER with yellow-shafts has been around JB's home
between Newport and Toledo; we don't have any May-September records
for them.
A very significant PURPLE MARTIN sighting was of at least two at
Zeek's Marsh at Beaver Creek on 5/19 (KM); I don't believe they have
been found in that area during the nesting season since the 1950's.
As many as four martins were at the MSC (perhaps all at the MSC Lagoon
area where Eric Horvath has put up martin houses) on 4/27 (LO), 4/29
and 5/2 (RO), and 5/12 (SJ; JS). On 4/28, martins were looking at
pilings near Eckman Lake where they nested two years ago, but European
Starlings had already occupied the pilings (MA).
The earliest NO. ROUGH-WINGED SWALLOW was reported near Eckman
Lake on 4/9 (L&LS), and one appeared to be scouting a cavity in a bank
along a road nearby on 4/27 (MA).
Our latest GRAY JAYS were two at SS's suet feeder near Neskowin
on 3/30.
CP was lucky to spot BUSHTITS building their hanging nest in a
Douglas-fir tree at Ellmaker State Park along HWY 20 in eastern
Lincoln Co. on 5/5.
* * * * * * * * * * *
96.59 THRUSHES-EVENING GROSBEAK
The first SWAINSON'S THRUSH was calling at Beaver Creek on
5/1 (LO).
On 5/10 somewhere in Lincoln Co., BT, BBe, & DF saw a
TOWNSEND'S SOLITAIRE.
CEDAR WAXWINGS arrived at Beaver Creek on 5/19 (JS & KM) and on
5/20 at Yaquina Head (SG).
Our last TOWNSEND'S WARBLERS were at Beaver Creek on 4/28 (LO).
Spring arrivals include a WILSON'S WARBLER heard in Toledo on
4/5 (P&MD), a female WESTERN TANAGER in Toledo on 4/27 (CP), and two
CHIPPING SPARROWS at Thornton Creek on 4/27 (GF, fide DF).
Departing birds include a SLATE-COLORED DARK-EYED JUNCO at
Neskowin on 3/26 (SS) and a singing WHITE-THROATED SPARROW in Waldport
on 4/14 (DF).
A few male YELLOW-HEADED BLACKBIRDS appear near the coast each
spring, but our only report this year was of one along north Beaver
Creek on 4/29 (VO, fide LO).
The latest report of WESTERN MEADOWLARKS was of two at Bayview
Pasture on 5/20 (DF); I am not aware of a nesting record of them for
Lincoln County in recent years.
AMERICAN GOLDFINCHES appeared on 4/27 south of Thiel Creek (DG)
and in north Toledo (P&MD); goldfinch numbers increased with 60-70
noted on 5/19 and about 100 on telephone wires on 5/21 in Toledo
(P&MD). PD writes that "It is a pretty sight to find American
Goldfinches and Evening Grosbeaks with their intense colors in the
same tree!"
At her Newport feeder on 5/5, KP noted first a flock of
10 HOUSE FINCHES, then a pair of EVENING GROSBEAKS (the first she has
seen in 10 years), and later STELLER'S JAYS; she writes that they were
"a lovely collection of colors." Perhaps, it is a good spring for
Evening Grosbeaks because LL at Waldport, DG south of Thiel Creek, and
other observers have also noted them especially this year.
OBSERVERS.--Mike Adam, BLM staff at Yaquina Head, Range Bayer,
Betty Bahn (BBa), John Bell, Barb Bellin (BBe), Patty Bernardi,
Sara & Don Brown, Pat & Meagan Dickey, Steve Dowlan, Darrel Faxon,
Glenn Faxon, Roy Gerig, David Gilbert, Greg Gillson, Steve Gobat,
John Hamerstad, Matt Hunter, Scott Johnson, Lola Landis,
Sally Lockyear, Bob Loeffel, Roy Lowe, Sylvia Maulding,
Kathy Merrifield, Terry Morse, Nancy Morrissey, Harry Nehls,
Robin & Thomas Nelson, Patty Newland, Dorothy Olson, Robert Olson,
Laimons & Vicki Osis, Katherine Peyton, Chuck Philo, Dave Pitkin,
Heidi Pollard, Mike Rivers, Floyd Schrock, Shirley Schwartz,
Lloyd & Luella Seabury, Jamie Simmons, Bill Tice, Barbara Wilson,
Martha Windsor.
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