Menu of June-December 1997 (sections 97.59-97.126) 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 18
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97.59 June-August 1997
97.81 September 1997
97.92 October 1997
97.106 November 1997
97.117 December 1997
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97.59 June-August 1997 Bird Field Notes
Comments in this column about abundance or seasonality refer to
**LINCOLN COUNTY** only.
Abbreviations and some Lincoln Co. site locations: Beaver
Creek=creek flowing through Ona Beach State Park, Driftwood Beach SP=park
about halfway between Seal Rocks and Waldport, Eckman Lake=lake just east
of Waldport along HWY 34, Eckman Slough=slough between Alsea Bay and
Eckman Lake, HMSC=Hatfield Marine Science Center, HY=hatch-year (bird in
the calendar year of its hatching [1997]), Idaho Flats=large embayment
just east of the HMSC, Idaho Slough=freshwater slough south of Idaho
Point Road at the SW corner of Idaho Flats, Mike Miller Park=county park
on east side of HWY 101 in South Beach, Nute Slough=freshwater slough at
about mile 9.3 along north Yaquina Bay Road, Ona Beach=State Park about
6.6 mi south of Yaquina Bay bridge along HWY 101, Sandpiper
Village=residential area west of HWY 101 and just north of Waldport,
Seabrook Lane=residential area just south of Waldport near HWY 101, Thiel
Creek=creek south of Airport and about 3.5 mi south of Yaquina Bay
bridge, YBSJ=Yaquina Bay South Jetty.
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.60 COMMENT
There is room here only for a tiny fraction of the 1,000+ bird
records I've compiled since the last newsletter. Thanks to all of you
who have shared your notes, even if they are not given here!
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.61 GREBES
KM discovered one CLARK'S GREBE with 10 WESTERN GREBES at Yaquina
Head on 6/1 for our first record of Clark's in June.
One PIED-BILLED GREBE at the NE corner of Eckman Lake on 6/11
(SaL & KH) is rare then for that site.
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.62 TUBENOSES
There were several pelagic trips off Lincoln County that spotted
tubenoses. The 6/14 Bird Guide pelagic trip was from Depoe Bay to about
55 nmi off the Lane County (MH, GG, and others).
USFWS surveys by RL & DPi included one on 7/2 from Boiler Bay to
about 24 nmi off Sand Lake (Tillamook Co.), one on 7/11 from Yaquina Bay
to about 7.5 mi west of Beverly Beach where a large fishing boat was
dumping fishing waste from onshore processors, one on 7/15 from Yaquina
Bay to about 14 nmi off Waldport, and one on 7/25 from Tillamook Bay to
about 9 nmi offshore.
The 7/26 Bird Guide pelagic trip was from Depoe Bay to about 13 nmi
off Cape Foulweather to where the boat dumping fish waste had been seen
previously (MH, GG, and others).
The 7/30 USFWS survey was from Yaquina Bay to about 14 nmi off
Alsea Bay, then to 9 nmi off Yaquina Head where the boat dumped fish
waste (RL & DPi).
Tubenoses reported included
Black-footed Albatross (BFAL), Northern Fulmar (NOFU), Pink-footed
Shearwater (PFSH), Sooty Shearwater (SOSH), Short-tailed Shearwater (STSH),
Leach's Storm-Petrel (LSPE), and Fork-tailed Storm-Petrel (FSPE);
X=present.
6/14 7/2 7/11 7/15 7/25 7/26 7/30
BFAL 126 8 3 0 4 10 4
NOFU 6 X 0 0 100+ 159 500+
PFSH 16 1 3 1 20+ 41 10+
SOSH 199 14 440+ 40+ X 105 100+
STSH 1? 0 0 0 0 0 0
LSPE 11 0 0 0 0 0 0
FSPE 170 0 8 1 0 8 4
From the Lincoln County shore, we have had no fulmar records in
June. At Florence (Lane Co.), RW spotted a Fork-tailed Storm-Petrel on
7/22.
On 8/25, RL & DPi were 2 nmi off the Yaquina Bay and discovered a
dead BULLER'S SHEARWATER. Two days later at 2 nmi and 5 nmi off Yaquina
Bay, BP saw three live Buller's (fide RL).
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.63 BROWN PELICANS
Prior to 1982, BROWN PELICANS were rare here before June. As
reported in the last newsletter, several were noted in April and May, and
KP spotted eight more flying near Gleneden Beach on 5/26. But several
observers have noted that they have been relatively rare so far this
summer; however, in past years they didn't reach peak numbers until
September or October (1983 Murrelet 64:80).
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.64 SNOWY EGRETS & EL NINO
El Nino mania is in the air again. As a veteran of the 1982-1983
event, when there was an urgency to spend considerably more observation
effort than normal to try to document what was "abnormal," the current
mania seems all too familiar. But today, communication via the Internet
can make the mania even more contagious and to sometimes compromise our
healthy immune system of skepticism.
The problem with this mania, which I severely caught in 1982-1983,
is that there needs to be more observation effort and more reports of
findings for every year so that any changes in bird presence during
El Nino can be reliably ascribed to the El Nino rather than be "normal"
yearly variation or an artifact of increased observation effort.
Rarities occur every year, whether it is an El Nino year or not.
Surprisingly, few rare species have been reported here thus far
that could be ascribed to the El Nino. Yes, Elegant Terns are making a
good showing (see below), but they have also occurred here in 5 of 6
years during 1987-1992, so they are not really an El Nino bird.
Perhaps our El Nino bird is the Snowy Egret, which has been much
rarer during the past decade in Lincoln County than Elegant Terns. There
have been more reports so far than in any other year,. Single Snowies
were at south Idaho Flats on 8/3 (PS), Nute Slough on 8/10 (KM), Eckman
Slough (PS) and Eckman Lake on 8/24 (RL), and at south Idaho Flats on
8/25 (DF) and 8/30 (BT).
Only single Snowies have been found rarely before in Lincoln
County, but, on 8/17, KM found five HY Snowies at the NW corner of Alsea
Bay. The 8/25 & 8/27 Idaho Flats Snowy was also HY (DF; BT).
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.65 BITTERNS-GREAT EGRET
AMERICAN BITTERNS are probably one of our more "common" species
that are rarely discovered and reported. One was at south Eckman Lake on
8/7 (fide RL) and 8/24 (PS; RL).
The first two GREAT EGRETS of the fall were seen at Idaho Flats on
7/28 (RL), but it was a week later before one made it upstream to Yaquina
Bay Road Milepost 7.7 (JB).
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.66 GEESE & SURFACE-FEEDING DUCKS
On 5/30, there were at least 12 broods of WESTERN CANADA GEESE at
Eckman Slough (RL). In past years, a northerly migration of Western
Canada Geese was noted in late May and early June; this year, our only
report was of a flock flying north at an altitude of about 700 ft near
Heceta Head (Lane Co.) on 6/7 (RL).
WOOD DUCK and MALLARD broods at Eckman Lake put on a good show (JW;
SaL & KH) with the 7th brood of Mallards having very small young noted on
7/8 (RL).
Three GADWALL at Siletz Bay on 6/1 (EH) were late.
A family group of 11 CINNAMON TEAL were south of the Siuslaw South
Jetty (Lane Co.) on 6/27 (RW).
Fall arrivals include about 40 GREEN-WINGED TEAL and a pair of
BLUE-WINGED TEAL migrating south over the ocean at Boiler Bay on 8/16 (AC
& GT). It may seem odd for "bay" or freshwater ducks to be out over the
ocean, but this happens during migration; on 8/18, AC & RH spotted seven
Green-winged Teal alight on the ocean in the kelp beds at Boiler Bay.
Additionally, an eclipse male AMERICAN WIGEON and two eclipse male
NORTHERN PINTAILS were at Alsea Bay on 8/17 (KM).
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.67 HARLEQUIN DUCK
One Harlequin found dead during the USFWS beach run from Seal Rocks
to Alsea Bay on 6/12 (DPi) is unusual because they are rarely found dead
on the beach.
Harlequins used to be a regular winter resident at Yaquina Head,
but they seem to have become rarer there in recent years. On 6/4, SaL &
KH spotted one going around the rocks at the Quarry Cove tidepools.
A live Harlequin at Seal Rocks on 6/12 had been banded in the
Oregon Cascades (DPi). Most of the banded Harlequins here have been
banded in Montana's Glacier Park; for instance, DPi spotted a female at
Seal Rocks on 7/31 that had been banded in Montana in 1995.
But except for KM's sighting of two in female-type plumage on 8/17,
Harlequins have been absent at Seal Rocks since late July, and DPi
speculates that about 3 ft (vertically) of sand washed ashore at Seal
Rocks since 8/1 may have covered what the Harlequins were feeding on
there.
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.68 OTHER WATERFOWL
Some waterfowl stick around during the summer as nonbreeders as did
a GOLDENEYE in female/immature plumage on the ocean side of the Yaquina
Bay North Jetty on 7/8 (RB). Some nonbreeding scoters regularly
oversummer as were 180 north of Yaquina Head on 6/29 (KM); unfortunately,
they molt and thereby can be difficult to identify, but some were
SURF SCOTERS.
Three WHITE-WINGED SCOTERS flying south offshore of Depoe Bay on
6/24 (RL &DPi) and a flock of 18 male White-wings flying south by Yaquina
Head on 7/1 (RL) suggest that their "fall" migration was underway.
KM studied a flock of 65 COMMON MERGANSERS (including many HY
birds) at Alsea Bay on 8/17, looking for Red-breasted's, but found none,
even though some this time of year look superficially like
Red-breasted's.
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.69 RAPTORS
The 6/21 YB&N field trip started out so wet that several people
left, but the three souls that remained were treated to a great look of
three adult OSPREY flying over the Mike Miller Park nest that had one
chick visible (RO et al.). Two days earlier, RO had seen three chicks in
this nest.
Beached animals are easy to spot. Eight TURKEY VULTURES feasted on
a sealion carcass south of Seal Rocks on 6/26 (DPi). Perhaps in the
past, condors may once have scavenged beached animals here.
BALD EAGLES had mixed nesting success with failures at Siletz Bay,
Whale Cove, and Yaquina Bay, but 1-2 young were at the Devils Lake and
Alsea Bay nests (fide RL). An immature was eating a dead Common Murre
by peeling it inside out on the beach south of Seal Rocks on 7/7 (DPi).
A NORTHERN HARRIER at the Siuslaw South Jetty on 6/6 and 27 (RW)
suggests that they may have nested there this summer. A male was also
hunting along the HMSC Nature Trail on 6/10 (P&MD).
Through 1992, we did not have any June MERLIN records, but CP
spotted one east of Carmel Knoll between Yaquina Head and Beverly Beach
on 6/15. He went to his Toledo home where he discovered another with a
bird in its talons the same day!
A PEREGRINE FALCON was at SW Newport on 6/6 (RB) and 7/2 (SK), and
one was chased over the HMSC by two PURPLE MARTINS during the last week
in July (D&BG).
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.70 SHOREBIRDS
"Fall" arrivals: WESTERN SANDPIPERS along the ocean beach north of
Alsea Bay on 6/23 (DPi), GREATER YELLOWLEGS at the Salmon River on 6/23
(RL), SEMIPALMATED PLOVERS, SURFBIRDS, BLACK TURNSTONES, and
LEAST SANDPIPERS between Seal Rocks and Alsea Bay on 6/30 (DPi);
17 RED-NECKED PHALAROPES from a boat between Depoe Bay to off Sand Lake
on 7/2 (Tillamook Co.)(RL & DPi), SHORT-BILLED DOWITCHERS at Idaho Flats on
7/5 (RKo), one WANDERING TATTLER at Seal Rocks on 7/11 (DPi), one
RUDDY TURNSTONE at Seal Rocks on 7/14 (DPi), one GOLDEN-PLOVER spp. at
Siuslaw South Jetty on 7/18 (RW), a WILLET near the HMSC on 7/22 (RL &
DPi), SANDERLINGS on 7/28 south of Seal Rocks (DPi) and at Florence (RW),
two BAIRD'S SANDPIPERS near Driftwood Beach SP on 7/31 (DPi), a
MARBLED GODWIT in the Seal Rocks area on 8/6 (DPi), two PECTORAL SANDPIPERS
on the YBSJ (GC) on 8/21, two RED KNOTS at Alsea Bay on 8/23 (PS), and a
BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER at Idaho Flats on 8/29 (K&MG) and the next day at
Ona Beach (RKr).
For our data compiled through 1992, the Western and Least
Sandpiper, Surfbird, and tattler records are our earliest arrivals, and
other species such as Semipalmated Plovers, turnstones, and
Greater Yellowlegs were earlier than normal; RL talked to a USFWS biologist
in Alaska, who said that that many shorebirds did not nest there this year
and left early, so that there were also many record "fall" arrival dates
in the Anchorage area.
The 9,430 "peeps" that were mostly Western Sandpipers just at Idaho
Flats on 7/9 (DPi) is a record high count of peeps at Yaquina Bay; at
least 1,730 peeps remained there the next day (DPi). Peeps usually reach
peak abundance there sometime during the last week in April or the first
week in May.
Other high shorebird counts include 950 peeps (mostly
Western Sandpipers, Least Sandpipers and DUNLIN) at Idaho Flats on 8/10
(KM), 900+ peeps at Alsea Bay (about 85% Western Sandpipers) on 8/17 (KM),
and 2,572 peeps (including 2,155 Western Sandpipers and 371
Semipalmated Plovers) between Seal Rock and Sandpiper Village on 8/27
(DPi).
This year there were only 22 days between the last
Greater Yellowlegs at Yaquina Bay on 6/1 (EH) and the first fall birds at
Salmon River on 6/23 (RL), so this species could easily be recorded every
month this year and thus be classed as a "permanent resident," although
individuals were migratory.
The only other Marbled Godwits or Red Knots were single juveniles
along the beach south of Seal Rocks on 8/27 (DPi) and a single godwit at
Ona Beach on 8/30 (RKr).
Seven Baird's Sandpipers (a large concentration) that were probably
all HY birds were on the beach between Seal Rocks and Alsea Bay on 8/21
(DPi).
SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPERS are rarely reported in Lincoln County and
can be easily misidentified, but one was discerned by careful observers
at Sandpiper Village on 8/10 (DBa & SR) and at Idaho Flats on 8/17 (SD);
the 8/17 record was of a HY bird.
The rarest shorebird for Lincoln Co. was a banded HY SNOWY PLOVER
near Sandpiper Village on 8/6 and a second, probable HY Snowy in the same
area on 8/21 that was not banded (DPi). Biologists think that they
banded all HY Snowies at Oregon nest sites this year (fide DPi).
RED-NECKED PHALAROPES were uncommonly reported onshore, but during
RL & DPi's 7/11 USFWS survey, they noted that phalaropes "carpeted the
water and filled the sky!"
At Seal Rocks on 8/17, KM noted that Whimbrels were eating Mole
Crabs (Emerita spp.). Between Seal Rock and Sandpiper Village on 8/27,
DPi noted that many Semipalmated Plovers, Whimbrels, and
Western Sandpipers were eating small (about 1.5" long), red worms that were
near the surface of the sand just below the high tide line.
* * * * * * * * *
97.71 JAEGERS & GULLS
An immature POMARINE JAEGER off the Lincoln County coast during the
6/14 pelagic trip (MH, GG, and others) may be the first Oregon June
record. A PARASITIC JAEGER was about 2-3 nmi off Yaquina Bay during the
7/11 USFWS survey (RL & DPi), and another was at Seal Rock on 8/17 (KM).
HEERMANN'S GULLS come up the coast after nesting, and the first
reported this year were at the mouth of the Yachats River on 6/26 (SaL &
KH).
On 6/18, SK & LH saw what appeared to be an immature ROSS' GULL
near the Newport bayfront--SK was encouraged to send a report to the
Oregon Bird Records Committee.
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.72 TERNS
Nonbreeding CASPIAN TERNS regularly oversummer along the coast and
5-17 were at the Siuslaw Estuary (Lane Co.) on 6/17-23 (RW). They were
present at Idaho Flats throughout June and July with one flight of over
10 calling very vociferously while flying 100 ft or higher shortly after
sunset on 6/18 (RB)--perhaps they enjoyed the sunset! On several other
nights in late June, RB also saw flocks flying west at or after sunset;
perhaps, they were going to a roost site. The first immigrant
adult/chick pair was heard at the Yaquina on 7/24 (RL).
ELEGANT TERNS were reported often, with some near the HMSC on 6/10
(DPe), 10 at Alsea Bay west of the bridge on 7/6 (JS), 8-10 just off the
breakers at Thiel Creek and six flying north off Seal Rock on 7/15 (RL &
DPi), five at Alsea Bay west of the bridge on 7/27 (KM), eight between
the Yaquina jetties on 8/16 (AC & GT), 7-13 at Alsea Bay on 8/17 (SD;
KM), and six at Idaho Flats on 8/23 (MR). In addition, a begging HY
Elegant was one of 11 at Alsea Bay on 8/23 (PS); I am unaware that such
begging has been reported here before.
Surprisingly, the only "Commic" (Common/Arctic) Tern was an
ARCTIC TERN at Idaho Flats on 8/17 (SD); it is not clear if the few records
are because we are focusing on Elegants or if "Commics" are rare this
fall.
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.73 COMMON MURRE
Murre nesting success was not good, with complete failures at some
colonies (RL). But a few chicks "fledged" at Yaquina Head, with the
first departure observed there on 7/5 (fide RL). Some murre chicks were
heard calling at the YBSJ on 7/8 (AC) and near the HMSC on 7/9 and in
late July (RB).
Many adult murres washed ashore dead in June with this year having
the second highest June total since 1978; 1996 was the worst (B&SLo; RL).
In June and July, B&SLo and S&DB found 99 dead adults along 4.5 mi of
beach near Thiel Creek; they also found eight dead HY murres in July,
which is low compared to a "normal" year but greater than the total of
only two found last year.
On 7/25, RL & DPi did a USFWS survey of Three Arch Rocks off
Tillamook County; but more is not necessarily better, since RL writes:
"Over 220,000 murres breed at Three Arch Rocks making this the largest
colony south of the Alaska Peninsula. But with the continuing poor ocean
conditions combined with Bald Eagle harassment, this colony has produced
few, if any, young the last three years."
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.74 OTHER ALCIDS
Four ANCIENT MURRELETS in breeding plumage at Yaquina Head on 6/29
(KM) are two days earlier than our previous earliest "fall" record
through 1992 for them. Two more in breeding plumage were also at Yaquina
Head on 7/13 (KM).
PIGEON GUILLEMOTS are pretty adaptable in their nesting. Some nest
in crevices under buildings or along docks in Yaquina Bay, others nest in
rock crevices along the coast, and some dig sand burrows. There were two
PG colonies in sand cliffs south of Seal Rocks this summer; their numbers
declined precipitously from 28 on 7/31 to eight on 8/6 and two on 8/14
(DPi), which suggests that young were fledged during that time.
TUFTED PUFFINS are rarely seen from land at Yaquina Head, and our
only records this summer are of one on 6/1 (EH) and 6/7 (JS & HH).
Mostly HY CASSIN'S AUKLETS that have dark eyes were common close to
shore during RL and DPi's pelagic trip within 2 mi of shore from Depoe
Bay to Cascade Head on 6/24; some appeared to be stressed as two were
easily captured with a dip net and were emaciated.
1-7 RHINOCEROS AUKLETS were at Yaquina Head and Seal Rocks in June
(KM).
133 MARBLED MURRELETS were counted from a boat between Jump Off Joe
in central Newport and Yaquina Head on 7/2; the same day a HY Marbled was
detected near the rocks at Yaquina Head (RL & DP). 48 Marbleds were at
Seal Rocks on 6/15 (KM), and 25 were at Boiler Bay on 8/23 (PS).
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.75 MOURNING DOVE-NIGHTHAWK
A few MOURNING DOVES are at choice sites in summer, but a pair near
Cutler (Lincoln) City on 6/1 (EH) and one at the HMSC on 6/27 (RL)
suggests that they might have been more widespread this summer than has
been reported in the past.
EH found a SPOTTED OWL in the Drift Creek Wilderness in early June,
which is the first report I've received in years.
Our first "spring" record of COMMON NIGHTHAWKS, which are the
latest of our summer residents was for Beaver Creek on 6/13 (DF & CP),
but they may have been present for a week or more earlier. Two hunting
over the HMSC on 6/23 are a rarity for that site now (RB).
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.76 HUMMINGBIRDS
ANNA'S HUMMINGBIRDS are rarely reported here during the nesting
season and even more rarely inland, so the male and female that appeared
at J&DC's NW Toledo feeder on 6/2 and stayed through at least mid-July is
a find. One also visited CP's feeder which is near J&DC's for a few days
in mid-July. Anna's were also present at Seabrook Lane this
June-August--they haven't been there in previous years (D&BM).
RUFOUS HUMMINGBIRDS were hungry at SS's Neskowin (Tillamook Co.)
home as they drank 64 ounces of solution daily in late May! On 6/27,
there were at least eight at her feeders.
On 6/22 at Seabrook Lane, DM writes about a confrontation between a
female Rufous and a male Anna's: "They took a number of runs at each
other with neither seeming to give way. After a run, they would perch
within 2 feet of each other in sight of the presumed common interest, the
feeder."
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.77 WOODPECKERS-SWALLOWS
PILEATED WOODPECKERS are regular at some places, but they are rare
elsewhere. The first in some time visited J&ST's Seal Rocks home on
6/22.
On 7/20, a pair of PACIFIC-SLOPE FLYCATCHERS nested on JB's back
porch wind chime adjacent to a well-used doorway between Newport and
Toledo!
SS noted that there seem to be fewer swallows, especially BARN
SWALLOWS around her Neskowin home this year, and RB was surprised that so
few Barn's nested around the HMSC, but these are undocumented
impressions.
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.78 PURPLE MARTIN
As noted above, two martins chased a Peregrine at the HMSC the last
week in July (D&BG).
In recent years, EH has become active in studying martins and
building nest boxes here. This summer he counted six nesting pairs east
of Kernville (Siletz Bay), five pairs at Alsea Bay, and 34 pairs at
Yaquina Bay, which is up from 19 pairs in 1996! On 8/10, KM counted 30
martins near Milepost 7.7.
FS has also put up some boxes at the Kernville site and noted that
some of the ones he put up last year were being used this year on 7/9.
Although Western Purple Martins have been thought to not use
apartment-type nest boxes, FS observed that two pairs used opposite sides
of a 6-room box and a third pair used a single box just inches below them
at Kernville on 7/9.
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.79 CORVIDS
COMMON RAVENS are uncommon to rare right along the Lincoln Co.
coast. But one was scavenging a Pelagic Cormorant carcass along the
beach just north of Beaver Creek on 6/7, and another was scavenging a
Common Murre on 7/4 in the same area (B&SLo).
WESTERN SCRUB-JAYS are unusual with most of our records in June,
and one was at EH's South Beach home during 5/23-6/16, and another (?)
visited the HMSC on 6/24 (RL) and 6/27 (LO).
On 7/29, SS watched a female Black-headed Grosbeak adeptly feed on
berries of a young, slender Mountain Ash at her Neskowin home, while an
American Robin was too heavy to do well. On 8/16, six STELLER'S JAYS
tried to perch and eat the berries, but they were heavier than the robin
so they were unsuccessful, so they resorted to the fly-and-snap method
before giving up.
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.80 THRUSHES-LESSER GOLDFINCH
The nesting status of HERMIT THRUSHES (whose song resembles the
very common Swainson's Thrush) in the Coast Range is unclear, but CP
found lots of them at 2,500 ft on Grass Mountain on 5/27. CP visited the
top of Crown Point in NE Lincoln County on 7/5, and was lucky enough to
hear SWAINSON'S THRUSHES, VARIED THRUSHES, and Hermit Thrushes all
singing at the same time!
The first AMERICAN PIPIT of the fall was at Yaquina Head on 8/29
(RO).
One reason for the success of EUROPEAN STARLINGS is their
adaptability; for example, two were foraging on the wet sand south of
Seal Rocks on 6/26 (DPi).
A rarity was a male CHESTNUT-SIDED WARBLER seen and heard singing
on 6/7 about a mile west of Chitwood near HWY 20 (DF) and on 6/22 in
South Beach (EH). They seem too far apart to be the same bird, and
neither could be relocated.
A LESSER GOLDFINCH at Fruitvale Road just east of Newport on 8/11
(DF) is the first here in some time.
OBSERVERS. David Bailey (DBa), Range Bayer, John Bell,
Sara & Don Brown, G. L. Casebolt, Alan Contreras, Jesse & Doris Crabtree,
Pat & Meagan Dickey, Steve Dowlan, Darrel Faxon, Greg Gillson,
Dan & Barbara Gleason, Keith & Mary Graves, Hendrik Herlyn,
Eric Horvath, Karen Houston, Rich Hoyer, Matt Hunter, Laura Hutton,
Steve Kapillas, Ray Korpi (RKo), Rick Krabbe (RKr), Sally Lockyear (SaL),
Bob & Shirley (SLo) Loeffel, Roy Lowe, Kathy Merrifield,
Dawson & Bobby Mohler, Robert Olson, Laimons Osis, Bill Peterson,
Diane Pettey (DPe), Katherine Peyton, Chuck Philo, Dave Pitkin (DPi),
Mary Ratcliff, Skip Russell, Floyd Schrock, Shirley Schwartz,
Jamie Simmons, Paul Sullivan, Jim & Shirley Thielen, Bill Tice,
Guy Tutland, Ruth Warren, Jean Weakland.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
97.81 September 1997 Bird Field Notes
Comments in this column about abundance or seasonality refer to
**LINCOLN COUNTY** only.
Abbreviations and some Lincoln Co. site locations: Beaver
Creek=creek flowing through Ona Beach State Park, Eckman Lake=lake just
east of Waldport along HWY 34, HMSC=Hatfield Marine Science Center,
HY=hatch-year (bird in the calendar year of its hatching--1997),
Idaho Flats=large embayment just east of the HMSC,
Nute Slough=freshwater slough at about mile 9.3 along north Yaquina Bay
Road, Ona Beach=State Park about 6.6 mi south of Yaquina Bay bridge along
HWY 101, Sandpiper Village=residential area west of HWY 101 and just
north of Waldport, Thiel Creek=creek south of Airport and about 3.5 mi
south of Yaquina Bay bridge, Thornton Creek=creek between Toledo and
Eddyville, YBSJ=Yaquina Bay South Jetty.
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.82 GREBES-PACIFIC LOON
Fall arrivals include RED-NECKED GREBE at Yaquina Head on 9/11 (AC)
and HORNED GREBE at Boiler Bay on 9/20 (AF).
On 9/20 at Boiler Bay, GL saw a light migration of PACIFIC LOONS
with "small groups of 4-7 heading south every few minutes."
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.83 TUBENOSES
During a 9/4 pelagic trip from Newport up to 25 nmi off Otter Rock,
RL saw 10 BLACK-FOOTED ALBATROSSES, 30 SOOTY SHEARWATERS,
21 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS, four BULLER'S SHEARWATERS, and
34 NORTHERN FULMARS.
SHEARWATERS put on an extraordinarily good showing near Alsea Bay
that was visible from shore. On 9/3, DF saw 300 SOOTY SHEARWATERS along
with 50 BROWN PELICANS about a hundred yards offshore of Sandpiper
Village, and many shearwaters were also visible a little further out on
9/10 (DF). On 9/15, DF spotted thousands of shearwaters about a half
mile off Waldport. On 9/17, DP used a spotting scope to see thousands of
shearwaters (including some PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS) flying south off the
coast between Seal Rocks and Alsea Bay.
From shore at Boiler Bay, AC viewed about three thousand Sooties,
nine Buller's, and three Pink-footeds on 9/17; AF spotted one Buller's
and a Pink-footed amongst the numerous Sooties on 9/20, SN and others saw
another Buller's on 9/23, and a birder from Georgia saw a Buller's on
9/27 (fide AC).
Beached tubenoses along 4.6 mi of beach near Thiel Creek in August
included three Sooties and one fulmar (B&SLo; S&DB).
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.84 PELICAN-BITTERN
BROWN PELICANS were numerous at Alsea Bay with JW counting 149 on
9/14 and 189 on 9/15.
An AMERICAN BITTERN was in the marsh by the Siuslaw South Jetty
(Lane Co.) on 8/2 (RW), but we had no reports for Lincoln County.
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.85 SNOWY EGRETS
SNOWY EGRETS continued to put on an unprecedented showing in
Lincoln County. We previously only had six years of records during the
20 year period of 1973-1992, and then usually only one sighting of a
singleton per year.
In our last newsletter, we had seven sightings of as many as five
Snowies, and this month two were at Eckman Lake on 9/1 (JS; RL; KM) and
9/15 (DF). Sometime in late August, TG noted eight Snowies west of the
Yachats HWY 101 bridge (fide BB).
Additionally, single Snowies were at Nute Slough on 8/24 (KM),
Siletz Bay on 8/30 (fide HN), Eckman Lake on 9/3 (SaL & KH), 9/14 (KM),
and 9/21 (AF); Ona Beach on 9/8 (BB), west of Yachats HWY 101 Bridge on
9/9 (BB), North Yaquina Bay Road at about Milepost 8 on 9/17 (JB) and
9/20 (RK) and MP 9 on 9/14 (KM), and south Siletz Bay north of the
Kernville bridge on 9/27 (AC).
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.86 WATERFOWL
The introduced Western subspecies of CANADA GOOSE appears to be
making a northerly migration in late May and early June; RL reports
having six records from 5/19 through 6/1.
85 NORTHERN PINTAILS and nine GREEN-WINGED TEAL were recorded
during RL's 9/4 pelagic trip out of Newport, 60 pintails and
30 Green-winged Teal flew south past Yaquina Head on 9/11 (AC),
50 pintails, 25 Green-wings, and two NORTHERN SHOVELERS flew by
Boiler Bay on 9/17 (AC); and 350-500 pintails flew south offshore of
Seal Rocks-Alsea Bay on 9/17 (DP).
A flock of 200 AMERICAN WIGEON, one EURASIAN WIGEON, and two
Green-winged Teal were at Idaho Flats on 9/14 (KM).
A male BLUE-WINGED TEAL at Eckman Lake on 9/8 (DF) is our only fall
record as the Blue-winged Teal sighting reported in last month's
newsletter was retracted by the observer.
Other fall arrivals include one NORTHERN SHOVELER at Idaho Flats on
8/24 (KM), six RING-NECKED DUCKS at Eckman Lake on 9/14 (KM), and five
GREATER SCAUP flying by Boiler Bay on 9/17 (AC).
The two BUFFLEHEADS in female-type plumage at Eckman Lake on 8/17
(KM) are too early for migrants and may have been nonbreeders.
At Yaquina Estuary, a raft of 15-20 COMMON MERGANSERS was at King
Slough on 9/1 (KM) and at Idaho Flats on 9/6 (MC & PV); they are usually
more numerous in summer at Alsea Bay.
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.87 RAPTORS
A NORTHERN GOSHAWK visiting Thornton Creek on 9/14 (DF) was the
rarest raptor this month.
1-2 NORTHERN HARRIERS continued to be at the Siuslaw South Jetty
throughout August (RW); they have not been reported in Lincoln Co. since
early June.
A PEREGRINE FALCON chased a MERLIN away at North Beaver Creek on
9/26 (CP).
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.88 SHOREBIRDS
On 9/20, BT saw a possible TEMMINCK'S STINT (which would be very
rare for Oregon) along with LEAST SANDPIPERS on the mudflats near Oregon
Oyster at about Milepost 7.2 of North Yaquina Bay Road. The bird
appeared to be like a Least with white outer tail feathers. On 9/21, AF
& DF found a bird in the same area that may have been the same bird that
BT saw. AF saw some field marks other than the white outer tail feathers
that led him to believe that it could have been a Temminck's, but DF
thought that the bird was more likely an aberrantly plumaged Least.
A PACIFIC GOLDEN-PLOVER was reported for Siletz Bay on 9/27 (fide
AC), and another golden-plover (probably a Pacific) also flew by Boiler
Bay on 9/27 (AC).
2-5 MARBLED GODWITS were at Alsea Bay on 8/30-9/1 (JS) and 9/21
(AF).
Eckman Lake had 2-5 LESSER YELLOWLEGS and 9-21 GREATER YELLOWLEGS
that allowed good size comparisons on 8/17(KM), 8/30 (JS), and 9/1 (KM).
Two LONG-BILLED CURLEWS flew south past Yaquina Head on 9/14 (KM).
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.89 JAEGERS, GULLS & TERNS
At Seal Rocks, KM saw two PARASITIC JAEGERS on 9/1, and during a
9/4 pelagic trip from Newport to 25 nmi offshore of Otter Rock, RL noted
two LONG-TAILED JAEGERS, one Parasitic, and one adult and one HY
POMARINE JAEGERS. A Pomarine was with the shearwaters about a half mile
off Waldport on 9/15 (DF).
At Boiler Bay, three jaegers that appeared to be Parasitics were
noted on 9/17 (AC), and a juvenile possible Pomarine was discovered on
9/20 (AF).
At Boiler Bay, 29 SABINE'S GULLS seen from shore on 9/17 (AC) is a
large number, and, on 9/27, AC also saw an immature Sabine's.
Gulls milling around in flying flocks catching insects were often
noticed this month within a half mile of the coast; flying ants and other
insects make mating swarms on warm days in September and October, and the
gulls adjust to this food source. The largest flock was about
450 CALIFORNIA GULLS flying high above the South Beach sand dunes on
9/1 (KM).
ELEGANT TERNS were not as often discerned as last month; eight were
at YBSJ on 9/1 (KM), 21 were offshore of Newport during RL's 9/4 pelagic
trip, and two were at Alsea Bay on 9/21 (AF).
A few COMMON/ARCTIC TERNS were at Yaquina Head on 9/11 (AC), off
Waldport on 9/15 (DF), and at Boiler Bay on 9/20 (AF) and 9/27 (AC).
40 at Seal Rocks on 9/1 (KM) and 20 off Boiler Bay on 9/17 (AC) were the
most counted.
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.90 ALCIDS
RL spotted two XANTUS' MURRELETS 22 nmi off Beverly Beach on 9/4;
they are rare for Oregon. Another rarity was a breeding-plumaged
HORNED PUFFIN at Yaquina Head on 9/10 (fide HN).
At Yaquina Head on 9/11, AC distinguished 35 PIGEON GUILLEMOTS in
all stages of molt (including one in breeding plumage).
One ANCIENT MURRELET was at Seal Rocks on 9/1 (KM) and at Boiler
Bay on 9/20 (AF).
Large counts of MARBLED MURRELETS included 67 at Seal Rocks on 9/1
(KM), 50 at Yaquina Head on 9/11 (AC), and 5-14 at Boiler Bay on 9/20
(AF; GL).
20-34 COMMON MURRES remained at Yaquina Head on 9/11 (AC) and
Boiler Bay on 9/20 (AF). 15 adults and 20 HY murres beached near Thiel
Creek in August (B&SLo; S&DB) is a high number for adults and a low
number for HY murres.
5-6 CASSIN'S AUKLETS were at Yaquina Head on 9/11 (AC) and Boiler
Bay on 9/20 (GL).
A few RHINOCEROS AUKLETS lingered with three at Yaquina Head on
9/11 (AC) and 1-14 at Boiler Bay on 9/20 GL; AF). An adult and five HY
Rhinos washed ashore in August near Thiel Creek (B&SLo; S&DB).
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.91 PIGEON-SPARROW
About a dozen BAND-TAILED PIGEONS at BL's Thiel Creek home was the
largest number he saw this summer.
A GREAT HORNED OWL flying during the daytime on 9/3 east of South
Beach (BL) may have been a HY bird that had not yet learned that he/she
is supposed to be active only at night!
A rarity was an immature SCISSOR-TAILED FLYCATCHER along North
Beaver Creek Road about a mile east of the intersection with South Beaver
Creek Road on 9/25 (LO). GH also saw a bird in the same area earlier in
the same day that fit the description of the Scissor-tailed (fide LO),
but, unfortunately, others could not relocate it.
A BARN SWALLOW'S nest was still active in the Siletz/Logsden area
until 9/10 (DS); a few nest into September each year.
GRAY JAYS that were nearly daily visitors to DF's Thornton Creek
farm in August and early September were our only report.
COMMON RAVENS can be locally common along Lincoln County beaches as
DP regularly observed a family group of four and as many as six ravens
between Seal Rocks and Alsea Bay in July and August.
2-3 AMERICAN PIPITS graced Yaquina Head in the upper quarry on 9/6
(E&EE), a site where they have also been noted during previous fall
migrations.
Our first fall FOX SPARROW was at Thornton Creek on 9/12 (DF).
OBSERVERS. Betty Bahn, John Bell, Sara & Don Brown,
Alan Contreras, Marcia Cutler, Elzy & Elsie Eltzroth, Darrel Faxon,
Anthony Floyd, Tom Gray, Gary Hauser, Karen Houston, Ray Korpi,
Gerard Lillie, Sally Lockyear (SaL), Bob & Shirley (SLo) Loeffel,
Roy Lowe, Kathy Merrifield, Harry Nehls, Sally Nelson, Laimons Osis,
Chuck Philo, Dave Pitkin, Dorothy Scott, Jamie Simmons, Bill Tice,
Paula Vanderheul, Ruth Warren, Jean Weakland.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
97.92 October 1997 Bird Field Notes
Comments in this column about abundance or seasonality refer to
**LINCOLN COUNTY** only.
Abbreviations and some Lincoln Co. site locations: Beaver
Creek=creek flowing through Ona Beach State Park, Boone Slough=freshwater
slough at about mile 8.9 along north Yaquina Bay Road, Drift Creek
Meadow=field south of Gorton Road (from HWY 101 south of Cutler City,
turn onto Drift Cr. Road, drive about 0.4 mi, and then turn onto Gorton
Road), Eckman Lake=lake just east of Waldport along HWY 34,
HMSC=Hatfield Marine Science Center, HY=hatch-year (bird in the calendar
year of its hatching, 1997), Idaho Flats=large embayment just east of the
HMSC, Lost Creek SP=park about 4.75 mi south of Yaquina Bay bridge,
Nute Slough=freshwater slough at about mile 9.3 along north Yaquina Bay
Road, Ona Beach=State Park about 6.6 mi south of Yaquina Bay bridge 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 south of Airport and about 3.5 mi south of
Yaquina Bay bridge, Thornton Creek=creek between Toledo and Eddyville,
YBSJ=Yaquina Bay South Jetty.
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.93 LOONS & GREBES
We sometimes wonder why we don't hear loons call. They don't nest
here, but some yodel infrequently in spring. However, RO was lucky
enough to hear a COMMON LOON flying over the HMSC and calling on 10/27.
An EARED GREBE in partial breeding plumage arrived at Sallys Bend
on 9/28 (KM), and two were at Boiler Bay on 10/12 (AC).
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.94 TUBENOSES
Boiler Bay was a good spot to see BULLER'S SHEARWATERS with about
300 on 10/2 (AS) and 15 on 10/3 (DF & AS). AS also estimated that
SOOTY SHEARWATERS were passing at a rate of about 40 per minute there
during 10 AM-1 PM on 10/2.
On 10/12, KM estimated that about 900 Sooties circled and then
landed briefly off Seal Rocks and about 140 did the same thing at
Yaquina Head. An intermediate-phase NORTHERN FULMAR was at Yaquina Head
on 10/12 (KM).
During the 10/18 pelagic trip from Depoe Bay, MH, GG & others
spotted 442 Buller's (!), three FLESH-FOOTED SHEARWATERS, 20 PINK-FOOTED
SHEARWATERS, 672 SOOTY SHEARWATERS, and nine BLACK-FOOTED ALBATROSSES.
MH notes that about 5% of the 107 NORTHERN FULMARS seen during this
pelagic were very dark, 5% were very light, and most of the rest were
intermediate gray.
During a 75 min late morning seawatch on 10/12, AC saw at least
eight FORK-TAILED STORM PETRELS passing Boiler Bay; he did better than
the 10/18 pelagic, when just one was detected by only one observer (MH).
KM carefully studied a Fork-tailed flying over the Yaquina channel
between the HMSC and the LNG tank on 10/12, which is a rare inland
sighting of them.
There were few beached tubenoses along 4.5 mi of beach near
Thiel Creek as only one NORTHERN FULMAR and two SOOTY SHEARWATERS were
discovered in September (B&SLo; S& DB).
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.95 HERONS AND EGRETS
A GREAT EGRET feeding in the ocean at the mouth of Big Creek
(Newport) on 10/1 (SG) may be our first ocean beach record. This is a
good year for them in Beaver Creek as there were three during the 10/18
YB&N field trip and two on 10/26 (D&MW).
Two GREAT BLUE HERONS feeding in the intertidal at Seal Rocks on
10/18 (LO) are uncommon for the ocean beach, but a few remain during
winter at sheltered intertidal areas.
SNOWY EGRETS continued their extraordinary show this year with one
at Eckman Lake on 9/28 (SG & MR), one across the bay from Boone Slough on
10/12 (KM), and one at Nute Slough on 9/19 (Anonymous), 9/26 (DH & PM),
9/28 (KM), and 10/13 (MC & PV).
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.96 BLACK BRANT & ARRIVAL DATES
Three adult and two HY BLACK BRANT at Idaho Flats on 10/27 (DP)
were our first of the fall; they were present until about noon that day
but were gone that afternoon and also at mid-day on 10/28 & 29 (DP).
Their arrival and disappearance is a reminder that an "arrival"
date doesn't necessarily mean the date when birds of a species arrive and
stick around. Further, such absences after their first arrival point out
how much an arrival date can depend upon luck and observation effort. If
someone happens to be at the right place at the right time, then he/she
may be able to see the first migrants. And as the number of observers
and their observation time increases, the greater the probability of
spotting the first migrants. With poor luck or low observation effort,
the actual first birds can be missed, so that the reported date can be a
week or so after the actual "arrival."
The absence of a species after it first "arrives" is hard to
document without daily, or, better yet, several times a day observations.
In Lincoln County, the regularity of these absences after a terrestrial
species was first seen was first documented by DF at Thornton Creek
(Studies in Oregon Ornithology No. 8) and was corroborated by L&LS'
observations for Sandpiper Village (in press). However, waterbirds here
have not received such daily attention, except for DP's studies of Brant
during recent winters.
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.97 OTHER GEESE
GR. WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE flocks were flying south a lot during 9/3
(RL & DP), 10/2 in the South Beach area (DP; RL), and 10/4-5 at Toledo
and at Carmel Knoll north of Yaquina Head (CP). Some flocks were passing
in the night over DP's South Beach home at about 4 AM and over CP's
Toledo home at 2:40 AM. About 250 were grounded at Drift Creek Meadow on
10/3 (DF), and 11 remained on 10/7 (RL).
Flocks of small CANADA GEESE were flying southward along the coast
on 9/4-7 (RL); others flew eastward up Yaquina Estuary on 10/6 (DP; RL)
and may have crossed the Coast Range like some geese do each fall (1995
Oregon Birds 21[1]:10-12). Flocks of 23-36 Cackling Canada Geese landed
at Idaho Flats on 10/9 (RL) and 10/29 (DP). 8-22 Cacklers were at Drift
Creek Meadow on 10/13 (MC & PV) and 10/23 (EN; RL), and a single Cackler
was grounded at a parking area along the YBSJ on 10/20 (DF). On 10/17,
four flocks of 35-120 Cacklers flew east up Yaquina Estuary past Idaho
Point at the east side of Idaho Flats between 11 AM and 1 PM (RL).
SNOW GEESE are rare here in fall, but three were (flying ?) at
Siletz Bay on 10/1 (AS), and one was grounded at Drift Creek Meadow on
10/23 (EN).
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.98 DUCKS
It is rare to see flocks of WOOD DUCKS migrating here, but CP
spotted two flocks with a total of about 30 woodies flying south very low
over a ridge about 2 mi inland of Carmel Knoll at 7-7:30 AM on 10/4.
Fall arrivals include one BUFFLEHEAD at Yaquina Bay on 9/28 (KM), a
REDHEAD at Eckman Lake on 10/3 (DF), and RUDDY DUCK and LESSER SCAUP at
Devils Lake on 10/13 (MC & PV).
A pair of WHITE-WINGED SCOTERS at Eckman Lake on 10/12 is
noteworthy (SaL & KH).
HOODED MERGANSERS aggregate in fall, especially at Eckman Lake, and
at least five were at nearby Lint Slough on 10/26 (D&MW). The five in
the Yachats River west of the HWY 101 Bridge on 10/25 (BB) seem unusually
close to salt water.
At Yaquina Bay embayments, there were 34 COMMON MERGANSERS on 9/28
and five in female-type plumage on 10/12 (KM); they are only seen
upstream later in fall and winter. In summer (and early fall ?), the
ones in female-type plumage can be easily mistaken for female
Red-breasted Mergansers without a careful look at nostril position and
bill and head shape (Kaufman 1990 Am. Birds 44:1203-1205). The first
RED-BREASTED MERGANSER (a female) flew very close to the shore of Yaquina
Head on 10/12 (KM)
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.99 RAPTORS
Our latest OSPREY was an adult at Eckman Lake on 10/12 (SaL & KH).
Our first WHITE-TAILED KITE in several months was at Nute Slough on
10/18 (ASC); that area is where they have also been reported previously.
An adult GOLDEN EAGLE flew over Thornton Creek on 10/15 (DF); they
are rare here, and it is easy to mistake an immature Bald Eagle with a
brownish cast as a Golden. A pair of BALD EAGLES flew over Waldport on
8/20 (LL).
Accipiter reports pick up in the fall along the coast and this year
is no exception. An immature NORTHERN GOSHAWK at south Beaver Creek on
10/5 (L&DO) is a rarity. One COOPER'S HAWK visited north Toledo on 9/22
& 24 (P&MD), Beaver Creek on 10/18 (LO), Thiel Creek on 10/20 (BLo), and
Newport on 10/23 (RO). A SHARP-SHINNED HAWK was at Beaver Creek on 10/18
(ASC), the HMSC on 10/20 & 22 (RL), and Yachats in mid-October and on
10/25 (BB).
Four NORTHERN HARRIERS at the Siuslaw Estuary South Jetty (Lane
Co.) on 9/19 (RW) are the most reported. An adult male harrier at the
HMSC on 10/27 (DP) is uncommon as mostly females and immatures winter
near the coast.
A PEREGRINE FALCON visited Idaho Flats on 10/9 (RL), a male fed on
a Rock Dove at Boiler Bay on 10/11 (BLo), and one was near the Yaquina
Bay bridge on 10/18 (ASC). A MERLIN flew by the HMSC on 9/29 (JE).
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.100 GROUSE AND RAILS
RUFFED GROUSE are not often reported, but LO flushed four near his
north Beaver Creek home on 10/13.
At the Wetland Conservancy's Marsh at Beaver Creek, a SORA whinnied
and a VIRGINIA RAIL called briefly during the 10/18 YB&N field trip.
A flock of 36 AMERICAN COOTS was at "Coot Cove" at east Sallys Bend
on 9/28, and they were 190 strong there on 10/12 (KM).
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.101 SHOREBIRDS
BLACK OYSTERCATCHERS seem to be flocking up a bit as a dozen were
at Seal Rocks on 9/29 (DP), and 10 remained during the 10/18 YB&N field
trip. On 9/28 at Seal Rocks, KM watched one taking a bath in the surf
and get caught in a big wave, so that it swam (was washed) ashore!
A fall arrival was two COMMON SNIPE and a departure includes eight
PECTORAL SANDPIPERS, all at the Lincoln City Sewage Ponds on 10/3 (DF).
One RED KNOT was with about 20 BLACK-BELLIED PLOVERS at Siletz Bay on
10/1 (AS), and another was on the beach south of Waldport on 10/6 (DF).
A MARBLED GODWIT visited Idaho Flats on 10/12 (KM), and a
WANDERING TATTLER was at Seal Rocks on 10/18 (ASC)--they sometimes
overwinter.
PACIFIC GOLDEN-PLOVERS have been putting on a good show here this
fall. One was calling as it flew over Newport's Hallmark Resort the
night of 10/16 (TC), and two were along the ocean beach about 2 mi south
of Waldport on 10/20 (DF).
About 500 SANDERLINGS, the largest concentration so far this fall,
were running along the surf by the Hallmark Resort at 1 AM the morning of
10/18 (TC). Both the Hallmark and the nearby Shilo Inn have flood lights
shining towards the beach at night, so it is possible to do night-time
birding there! It is also possible that birds may use the extra light to
increase their foraging time.
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.102 SKUAS, JAEGERS, GULLS, AND TERNS
A dark juvenile SOUTH POLAR SKUA was well seen during the 10/18
pelagic trip out of Depoe Bay (MH, GG, & others).
At Boiler Bay, there were seven unidentified jaegers on 10/2 (AS)
and two adult POMARINE JAEGERS on 10/12 (AC); 16 Pomarines were recorded
during the 10/18 pelagic trip (MH, GG, & others).
Our first fall report of BLACK-LEGGED KITTIWAKES was for 10/12 with
at least eight adults at Boiler Bay (AC) and two HY birds at Seal Rocks
(KM).
SABINE'S GULLS continue to be seen with an immature at Boiler Bay
on 10/12 (AC). Our first fall THAYER'S GULL was at Idaho Flats on
10/12 (KM).
About 300 COMMON/ARCTIC TERNS were just visible from the shore at
Boiler Bay on 10/2 (AS).
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.103 ALCIDS
MARBLED MURRELETS regularly fly over SS's Neskowin home (Tillamook
Co.) in early mornings of spring and summer calling, but some also flew
over calling on 10/22 at 7:22 and 7:25 AM PDT! Nine Marbleds were seen
near shore and at least two ANCIENT MURRELETS were also spotted during
the 10/18 pelagic trip (MH, GG, & others). 56 Marbleds were at Seal
Rocks on 9/28 (KM).
Beached alcids near Thiel Creek in September included three
CASSIN'S AUKLETS and five HY and nine adult COMMON MURRES (B&SLo; S&DB).
The eight PIGEON GUILLEMOTS at Boiler Bay on 10/13 (MC & PV) was
the highest count, but several individuals were also reported elsewhere
throughout October.
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.104 PIGEONS-JAYS
About five BAND-TAILED PIGEONS lingered at BB's Yachats feeder on
10/25; in many years, some will remain into November. A NORTHERN
PYGMY-OWL visited SS's Neskowin home on 10/12.
While ANNA'S HUMMINGBIRDS were present during the summer in
northern Toledo, the first one at J&JG's Yachats home arrived on 9/24 and
was singing.
PILEATED WOODPECKERS often make a fall showing at places where they
are otherwise absent. One was feeding on berries or spiders in a
huckleberry bush at D&MW's Waldport home on 10/16.
Our last VIOLET-GREEN SWALLOW report was of 10 at Thornton Creek on
10/10 (DF).
Spring and fall are peak times for WESTERN SCRUB-JAYS, which are
rare to uncommon. One visited ME's Newport feeder on 10/10, and another
was at Salishan on 10/13 (MC & PV).
Starlings aren't our only common mimics--STELLER'S JAYS were
sounding like Red-tailed Hawks in Toledo on 9/24 (P&MD).
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.105 BLUEBIRDS-MEADOWLARKS
11 WESTERN BLUEBIRDS visited Thornton Creek on 10/4 (DF), some were
east of Carmel Knoll on 10/18 (CP), and 7-10 were at Yaquina Heights road
east of Newport on 10/20 & 27 (EH). They seem to wander (migrate ?) in
spring and fall so that we have more sightings then.
A flock of CEDAR WAXWINGS took a break at DG's Lost Creek feeder
and ornamental bush with berries on 10/7-8--they had been absent there
earlier this year.
Fall departures include two WESTERN TANAGERS on 9/26 and 4-5
BLACK-THROATED GRAY WARBLERS on 10/5 in north Toledo (P&MD), and
COMMON YELLOWTHROAT at Beaver Creek on 10/18 (ASC). All of these were
later than usual.
Fall arrivals include a WHITE-THROATED SPARROW on the hillside just
east of the Yaquina Head Lighthouse on 10/19 (PS), and LAPLAND LONGSPURS
on 10/12 along the YBSJ with a flock of 45 in the morning (DF) and 35 in
the afternoon (AC). AC notes that the longspurs were in a remarkable
variety of plumages and were on the south side of the road west of the
big pullout where the gulls bathe. As AC & DF walked around, single
Laplands flew over calling, but did not join the flock. Laplands are
uncommon in October and rather rare at other times, and these are high
numbers for them.
Our first fall WESTERN MEADOWLARKS were one at the YBSJ and eight
at Nute Slough on 10/18 (ASC), and two at the HMSC on 10/24 (RO).
OBSERVERS. Audubon Society of Corvallis (ASC) field trip (PV, MC,
JH, and others), Betty Bahn, Sara & Don Brown, Alan Contreras,
Tom Crabtree, Marcia Cutler, Pat & Meagan Dickey, John Edstrom,
Marie Erickson, Darrel Faxon, Jim & Janice Gerdemann, Dave Gilbert,
Greg Gillson, Steve Gobat, Dean Hale, Jeff Harding, Eric Horvath,
Karen Houston, Matt Hunter, Lola Landis, Sally Lockyear (SaL),
Bob & Shirley (SLo) Loeffel, Roy Lowe, Patty Meehan, Kathy Merrifield,
Eric Nelson, Robert Olson, Laimons & Dane Osis, Chuck Philo, Dave Pitkin,
Mike Rivers, Alan Schmierer, Shirley Schwartz, Lloyd & Luella Seabury,
Paul Sullivan, Paula Vanderheul, Ruth Warren, Dennis & Marilyn Williams,
YB&N field trip (LO and others).
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
97.106 November 1997 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, Beaver
Creek Marsh=marsh just east of HWY 101 managed by Wetlands Conservancy,
Drift Creek Meadow=field south of Gorton Road (from HWY 101 south of
Cutler City, turn onto Drift Cr. Road, drive about 0.4 mi, and then turn
onto Gorton Road), Eckman Lake=lake just east of Waldport along HWY 34,
Eckman Slough=slough between Alsea Bay and Eckman Lake, HMSC=Hatfield
Marine Science Center, HY=hatch-year (bird in the calendar year of its
hatching), Idaho Flats=large embayment just east of the HMSC,
Idaho Slough=freshwater slough south of Idaho Point Road at the SW corner
of Idaho Flats, Lost Creek SP=park about 4.75 mi south of Yaquina Bay
bridge, Ona Beach=State Park about 6.6 mi south of Yaquina Bay bridge
along HWY 101, Sallys Bend=large embayment east of the LNG tank at
Yaquina Bay, Seabrook Lane=residential area just south of Waldport near
HWY 101, Thiel Creek=creek about 3.5 mi south of Yaquina Bay bridge,
Thornton Creek=creek between Toledo and Eddyville, YBSJ=Yaquina Bay South
Jetty.
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.107 LOONS-GREBES
During three 5-min seawatches the morning of 10/26 at Seal Rocks,
KM counted 1,052 loons flying north, and 40 flying south; she estimated
that over 95% were PACIFIC LOONS. In contrast, loons were flying south
en masse past Seal Rocks on 11/4 (LO counted 110 and 41 flying south in
two one-minute watches) and 11/9 (KM). On 11/20, hundreds of
PACIFIC LOONS and a few RED-THROATED LOONS and COMMON LOONS passed
southward by Boiler Bay (AC).
On 11/1, AC estimated 550 PACIFIC LOONS, 200 COMMON LOONS, and at
least 50 RED-THROATED LOONS in a tight raft about a half mile offshore of
Boiler Bay that were actively feeding along with many other seabirds.
Our only EARED GREBE was at Sallys Bend on 11/9 (KM).
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.108 TUBENOSES
Two LEACH'S STORM-PETRELS, which are rarely seen from shore here,
were visible with a 30x scope the afternoon of 11/20 at Boiler Bay
(AC & TG).
45 NORTHERN FULMARS, most of which were the dark "purple" phase,
were also spotted at Boiler Bay on 11/20, but one was a "stunning white"
and another was a pale brownish (AC). Only one fulmar washed ashore
along 4.5 mi of beach near Thiel Creek in October (B&SLo; S&DB).
95 SOOTY or SHORT-TAILED SHEARWATERS flew north, and none flew
south during a 5-min seawatch at Yaquina Head on 10/26 (KM). At least
100 Sooty Shearwaters were feeding with many other seabirds at Boiler Bay
on 11/1 (AC).
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.109 BROWN PELICANS
We have a new BROWN PELICAN arrival date this year--one was at
Yaquina Head on April 9; as many as 10 were also seen there during five
days later in April, and 1-29 were there during 14 days in May (BLM).
So, like in most recent years, they were fairly regular this spring.
Brown Pelicans were conspicuous members of seabird feeding flocks
close to shore as 40 were in a feeding flock of over a thousand other
seabirds at Boiler Bay on 11/1 (AC), six foraged in the breakers at Lost
Creek State Park on 11/8 (DG), and another 50-100 were hunting in the
surf just north of Beaver Creek on 11/18 (DG). A concentration of 63 was
also at the mouth of Alsea Bay on 11/19 (JW).
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.110 CORMORANTS-EGRETS
In recent late summers and early falls, southerly flights of
DOUBLE-CRESTED CORMORANTS along the coastline have been detected. This
year, flocks of up to at least 95 headed south by Yaquina Head on 10/17
(BLM), past Salishan Spit on 10/28 (RL), by Depoe Bay on 11/4 (RL), and
past Newport on 11/10 (RB). In addition, at least half of the 10 that KM
counted flying by Yaquina Head on 11/9 were immatures.
An AMERICAN BITTERN "froze" about 10 ft away from the roadside
where JW and her dog walked along east Eckman Lake on 11/27; they are
rarely reported here.
Six GREAT EGRETS were along north and south Beaver Creek on 11/15
(D&MW), and one remained at Beaver Creek Marsh on 11/18 (LO) & 11/22 (CPh
& RB). Peak abundance is in fall at Yaquina Bay, and our highest count
there was 12 that were scattered along the lower and upper estuary on
10/26 (KM).
Our first (and thus far only) CATTLE EGRET was at Drift Creek
(Siletz Bay) on 11/15 (fide TS).
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.111 WATERFOWL
The two adult and two immature TUNDRA SWANS at south Beaver Creek
on 11/15 (D&MW) are our first this fall; probably the same ones, sans one
of the immatures, was at north Beaver Creek the next day (LO).
After the first contingent of BLACK BRANT arrived (and departed)
Yaquina Bay on 10/24, the next Brant did not arrive until five adult and
three HY Brant came on 11/1 (DP). On 11/20, AC saw four flocks totaling
60 Brant flying south past Boiler Bay. On 11/25, 140 (including 15
banded birds) were at Yaquina Bay, and 147 Brant were at Netarts Bay
(Tillamook Co.)(DP).
Fall arrivals include one CANVASBACK at Sallys Bend on 10/26 (KM),
three female OLDSQUAWS at Idaho Flats (DP) and Sallys Bend (KM) on 11/9,
and 11 COMMON GOLDENEYES at Sallys Bend on 11/9 (KM).
The 500+ AMERICAN WIGEON grazing at north Beaver Creek on 11/16
(LO) and at Bayview Pasture during the 11/22 YB&N field trip remind us
that large numbers of wigeon are not confined to the estuaries. For
example, 2,450 wigeon and 50 NORTHERN PINTAILS were at Idaho Flats and
another 1,850 American Wigeon were at Sallys Bend on 10/26 (KM).
About 450 scoters were riding the waves northeast of Yaquina Head
on 11/9, but one flock of 230 and eight flocks of 60-80 SURF SCOTERS or
BLACK SCOTERS and a few flocks of 3-12 WHITE-WINGED SCOTERS flew south
past Seal Rocks the same morning (KM).
Six HARLEQUIN DUCKS were along the YBSJ on 11/20 (AC), and 7-9
mostly male REDHEADS were at Sallys Bend on 10/26 and 11/9 (KM).
Eckman Lake is a favored birding site for waterfowl in fall and
winter, but COMMON MERGANSERS have rarely been recorded there in previous
years. However, 4-5 were there on 10/26 (KM), 11/9 (CPa), and 11/22
(YB&N field trip); and 11 were there on 11/25 (JW). Common's normally
leave the lower Yaquina Estuary to RED-BREASTED MERGANSERS after
Red-breasteds arrive, but two Commons in female-type plumage remained
with Red-breasteds at Sallys Bend on 11/9 (KM).
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.112 RAPTORS
Our last OSPREY was often noted in mid-November at Eckman Lake
(SaL & KH; DF) and was last reported on 11/16 (RL).
One SHARP-SHINNED HAWK was at north Beaver Creek on 11/14 (LO).
In early November, a COOPER'S HAWK caught an AMERICAN ROBIN in a
holly tree in South Beach while EH's family was watching and eating
breakfast--his kids were a bit distressed because they like robins. A
conundrum--do you root for the robin or for the hawk?
Our first RED-SHOULDERED HAWK this fall was an immature at Siletz
Keys (south Siletz Bay) on 11/4 (RL).
A WHITE-TAILED KITE hovered over cleared land just north of Sallys
Bend on 10/26 and perched on the chain link fence around the LNG tank on
11/9 (KM); another was at the Siuslaw South Jetty (Lane Co.) on 10/1 & 15
and 11/1 (RW).
Male NORTHERN HARRIERS are usually uncommon along the coast, but
one lingered at the HMSC on 10/31 (RO) through 11/17 (DP); he was joined
by a female on 11/13 (BH & RL).
At Yaquina Head, BALD EAGLES appear to have become more common in
spring as an adult and an immature were seen twice at the same time in
April, 1-2 eagles were noted during four days in May, and singletons were
recorded on six days in June; they were absent in July (BLM).
One MERLIN was parked on a perch bench along the HMSC Nature Trail
on 11/8 (DP), and another patrolled Newport on 11/29 (RB).
In mid-October an adult male and a subadult female PEREGRINE FALCON
interacted in flight over the Newport bayfront before perching together
on the Yaquina Bay Bridge (PL). On 11/1, PL spotted an adult male, an
adult female, and a female of unknown age flying together, and two of
them locked talons and tumbled in flight near the Newport bayfront. An
adult perched on a tree limb near the NW corner of the Alsea Bay Bridge
allowed YB&N 11/22 field trip participants a luxuriously long look and
then obligingly slowly flew overhead for a close study! 1-2 Peregrines
were at Yaquina Head during seven days in May, five days in June, and
three days in July (BLM).
The AMERICAN KESTREL at north Beaver Creek during two days in
mid-November (LO) is our most rarely reported falcon this month.
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.113 QUAIL-RAILS
On 11/6, a covey of about six MOUNTAIN QUAIL visited BL's Thiel
Creek home, where they are only seen every couple of years. But a
RUFFED GROUSE at north Beaver Creek on 11/13 is not rare for there (LO).
At least two VIRGINIA RAILS called at Idaho Slough on 11/14 (EH);
rails and Soras are often missed.
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.114 SHOREBIRDS
Continuing some earlier concentrations, a flock of
10 BLACK OYSTERCATCHERS was at Seal Rocks during a 11/4 high tide (LO).
73 BLACK-BELLIED PLOVERS at Siletz Bay on 11/1 (AC) is a high
number in recent years.
A rare (and very late) SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPER was reported at Drift
Creek (Siletz Bay) on 11/15 (fide TS). A ROCK SANDPIPER was at Seal
Rocks on 11/4 (LO), and five were with other rockpipers along the rocky
shoreline immediately south of the entrance into Depoe Bay on 11/15 (TS).
The 300 SURFBIRDS at Smelt Sands State Park at Yachats on 11/14 may
have been concentrated by high tides and high swells (D&BM).
Some GREATER YELLOWLEGS and LONG-BILLED DOWITCHERS overwinter, and
a good area in the past to find them is Eckman Lake and Slough; they were
detected at Eckman Slough on 11/9 (CPa), during the 11/22 YB&N field
trip, and on 11/25 (SaL & KH).
Our latest WANDERING TATTLER was at Yaquina Head on 10/17 (BLM),
and our only COMMON SNIPE was a singleton near the HMSC Nature Trail on
11/10 (DP).
Several RED PHALAROPES were at the mouth of Beaver Creek during the
11/19 storm (LO); one was blown inland to Thornton Creek on 11/21 (DF).
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.115 JAEGERS-ALCIDS
One POMARINE JAEGER, eight adult BLACK-LEGGED KITTIWAKES, and at
least 250 HEERMANN'S GULLS were feeding in a large mixed-species seabird
feeding flock at Boiler Bay on 11/1 (AC). On 11/20, AC spotted another
adult Pomarine, eight mostly immature Black-legged Kittiwakes, and an
immature SABINE'S GULL there. Two adult kittiwakes were also in the
water at Seal Rocks on 11/9 (KM).
Nonbreeding CASPIAN TERNS often oversummer at Yaquina Bay, but as
many as 19 were at Yaquina Head during 12 days in early and late June
(BLM), suggesting that some oversummered there, too.
TUFTED PUFFINS were uncommonly reported this year, but 1-2 were at
Yaquina Head on April 16 & 20, during four days in May, and on June 1 and
7 (BLM).
Three ANCIENT MURRELETS flew south past Seal Rocks in a tight flock
on 10/26 (KM), and three Ancients and five MARBLED MURRELETS were at
Boiler Bay on 11/20 (AC).
Not many alcids were beached in October near Thiel Creek; there was
only one PIGEON GUILLEMOT, two CASSIN'S AUKLETS, one RHINOCEROS AUKLET,
and four COMMON MURRES (B&SLo; S&DB).
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.116 THRUSHES-LONGSPURS
The first HERMIT THRUSH of the fall was in Florence (Lane Co.) on
10/31 (RW) and the first in Lincoln Co. visited north Beaver Creek on
11/15 (LO).
PALM WARBLERS often arrive in October, but our first report was for
one at the HMSC on 11/25 (DP). A flock of about a dozen TOWNSEND'S
WARBLERS were at Drift Creek (Lincoln City) on 11/2 (EN). COMMON
YELLOWTHROATS were not reported in November prior to 1993, so DF's record
of one at Eckman Lake on 11/13 (DF) is very late.
Our first SLATE-COLORED DARK-EYED JUNCO of fall visited Seabrook
Lane on 11/2 & 7 (D&BM). Last year, up to five FOX SPARROWS were
regularly at Seabrook Lane, but so far this year only one has been
sporadically present (D&BM). D&BM also note that this year mostly adult
WHITE-CROWNED SPARROWS are present, although last year, mostly immatures
were seen at Seabrook Lane.
Two LAPLAND LONGSPURS were at Yaquina Head on 10/16-18 (BLM).
CORRECTION TO LAST MONTH'S FIELD NOTES. In the October 1997 field
notes, I mistakenly transcribed 22 GR. WHITE-FRONTED GEESE present at
Drift Creek Meadow on 10/13 as 22 CACKLING CANADA GEESE.
OBSERVERS. Range Bayer, Sara & Don Brown, Bureau of Land
Management (BLM) at Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area, Alan
Contreras, Darrel Faxon, Dave Gilbert, Troy Guy, Bill Hanshumaker,
Eric Horvath, Karen Houston, Pete Lawson, Sally Lockyear (SaL),
Bob & Shirley (SLo) Loeffel, Roy Lowe, Kathy Merrifield,
Dawson & Bobby Mohler, Eric Nelson, Robert Olson, Laimons Osis,
Carolyn Paynter (CPa), Chuck Philo (CPh), Dave Pitkin, Tim Shelmerdine,
Ruth Warren, Jean Weakland, Dennis & Marilyn Williams,
YB&N 11/22 field trip.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
97.117 December 1997 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, Eckman
Lake=lake just east of Waldport along HWY 34, Eckman Slough=slough
between Alsea Bay and Eckman Lake, HMSC=Hatfield Marine Science Center,
Idaho Flats=large embayment just east of the HMSC, Sallys Bend=large
embayment east of the LNG tank at Yaquina Bay, Thiel Creek=creek about
3.5 mi south of Yaquina Bay bridge, YBSJ=Yaquina Bay South Jetty.
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.118 LOONS-EGRETS
Three birds including one loon were found oiled along the ocean
beach near Yachats in mid-December (BB); fortunately, the oiling was not
more extensive.
The 19 NORTHERN FULMARS found along 4.5 mi of beach near Thiel
Creek in November is within the range of previous years (B&SLo; S&DB).
The latest BROWN PELICAN flew south past Yaquina Head on 12/27
(RB).
The fall DOUBLE-CRESTED CORMORANT migration continued
intermittently with seven heading southeast about a quarter mile off
Newport on 12/8 (RB).
An obliging AMERICAN BITTERN poked out of the rushes along the east
edge of Eckman Lake at about noon on 12/3 (JW & SaL), where it had also
been seen the week before.
1-2 GREAT EGRETS were at Bayview Pasture on 11/28 & 29 (JS), Alsea
Bay on 12/26 (JS), and Beaver Creek on 11/28 & 29 (JS) and 12/5 & 15
(LO). They were also noted at Yaquina Bay.
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.119 BLACK BRANT
The two BLACK BRANT that allowed people within 20 ft and that were
eating grass along the YBSJ roadside for at least a week through 12/10
(DP & RL) are out of place and out of character. Yaquina Bay wintering
Brant usually eat eelgrass east of the HWY 101 Bridge and are wary. On
12/7, the two Brant flew in and flushed about 30 gulls as they landed,
and they were still there on 12/14 (KM).
Wintering Brant numbers in Oregon appear to have declined in recent
years. At Tillamook Bay (Tillamook Co.), DP found no Brant on 11/24,
11/28, and 12/2 and only 29 Brant on 12/12. At Netarts Bay, he found
216-297 Brant on 12/2, 12/6, and 12/12. At Yaquina Bay, there were only
173 Brant (including 20 that were banded) on 12/10 (DP), but there were
163-365 in late November of 1980-1983 and 234-446 during early December
in the 1980's (1996 Journal of Oregon Ornithology 6:760).
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.120 RAIN AND DUCK DISTRIBUTION
At Yaquina Bay, the typical pattern is for surface-feeding ducks to
peak in abundance from about mid-November through mid-December. It is
not clear where they go or why they leave, but one factor may be
rainfall.
In past years, LO has noted that ducks are much more abundant at
Beaver Creek after several days of storms. This year, he did counts in
north Beaver Creek on 12/5 before a series of storms and then again on
12/15 after several days of rain. His counts below indicate that the
rains may not have made much difference for some species but dramatically
influenced the number of wigeon that were visible. However, it is not
clear if the changes in numbers reflect real differences in bird
abundance, represent birds being more visible when they are flooded out
of their vegetative cover, and/or result from immigration (from Yaquina
Bay ?). Ahhh, the mystery . . .
12/5 12/15
(pre-rain) (post-rain)
GREEN-WINGED TEAL 36 15
MALLARD 40 57
AMERICAN WIGEON 10 366
NORTHERN PINTAIL 6 0
GADWALL 0 36
NORTHERN SHOVELER 66 30
SCAUP 2 0
BUFFLEHEAD 0 11
RING-NECKED DUCK 0 4
GOLDENEYE 0 1
HOODED MERGANSER 1 8
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.121 OTHER WATERFOWL
15 TUNDRA SWANS landed on Idaho Flats on 12/25 (B&LMu) are
noteworthy, as few are seen in passage and none usually overwinter.
However, at least one has remained at Beaver Creek for over a month until
12/21 (LO), and a flock of 28 circled high over the HMSC on 12/30 (RO).
On 12/1, a flock of about 90 CANADA GEESE flew in from the ocean
and then east over the HMSC; two were Taverner's and the rest were
Cacklers (DP). They may have flown eastward across the Coast Range like
other flocks do in fall and spring.
8-10 WOOD DUCKS at about Milepost 2 along Thiel Creek Road on 12/18
are very unseasonal for that location (BL).
Bayview Pasture is a good place for wigeon in winter as 900
AMERICAN WIGEON and two male EURASIAN WIGEON were there on 12/14 (KM).
This month's rarest sighting is probably the female HARLEQUIN DUCK
near the Oregon Oyster docks at Milepost 7.2 along north Yaquina Bay Road
on 12/7 (KM); they are rare east of the HWY 101 Bridge. Other Harlequins
have been frequenting Yachats Bay west of the bridge in early December
with as many as two males and five females (BB). A pair was also at Seal
Rocks on 12/10 (SaL), where they are much more often seen.
Our only REDHEAD report was of 14 at Sallys Bend on 12/7 (KM), and
our only OLDSQUAW, a female, was at the YBSJ on 12/14 (KM).
COMMON MERGANSERS continue to put on a show at Eckman Lake with 11
in female-type plumage on 12/14 (KM); prior to this fall, they were rare
there.
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.122 PEREGRINE FALCON
We see Peregrines in the Newport area pretty regularly in winter;
for example, one was at Yaquina Head during seven days in November (BLM)
and on 12/14 (KM), a juvenile visited Newport's Nye Beach on 11/29 (PL),
and one soared over Yaquina Bay Bridge on 12/14 (B&SLo). But they are
rare inland, so a notable sighting is one in northeast Toledo on 12/29
(SK).
On 12/10, DP watched as a large female Peregrine tried to flush a
small flock of wigeon at Yaquina Bay; he writes: "The wigeon were bunched
up very tightly in the water, and the falcon dived on them repeatedly, so
close that her wings seemed to touch the ducks on several passes. The
ducks wouldn't fly! It was amazing to watch--I've never seen that
behavior before in ducks. The falcon finally gave up and flew east up
the bay."
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.123 OTHER RAPTORS
An immature BALD EAGLE was harassed by crows along the beach by
Newport's Jump Off Joe but still managed to pickup and lumber off with a
large bottom fish carcass on 12/20 (SG). One adult was at the Yachats
River on 12/4 (KH & SaL), and an immature was at Yachats on 12/21 (BB).
We also had other reports from where they are often spotted.
One MERLIN visited Yaquina Head on 11/6 (BLM), and a second was at
SW Newport on 11/29 (RB).
The rarest falcon again this month was the AMERICAN KESTREL--our
only report was of one on a power pole at north Beaver Creek on 12/17
(LO).
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.124 QUAIL-SHOREBIRDS
As many as 17 probable MOUNTAIN QUAIL regularly visited R&TN's
Newport deck in November and early December, and a dozen more were at
Seal Rocks on 12/16 (CH).
BLACK OYSTERCATCHERS sometimes flock in winter. 23 roosted on two
rocks (21 were on one) at Seal Rocks in mid-day on 12/14 (KM), and a
dozen were there on 12/15 (LO). Since both roosting flocks were seen at
high tide, is this only a high tide phenomenon when they can't forage
intertidally?
Our latest WANDERING TATTLER was at Yaquina Head on 11/10 (BLM);
they occasionally overwintered in the early 1980's but have done so
rarely recently.
As many as 50 DOWITCHERS and 20 GREATER YELLOWLEGS were at Beaver
Creek on 11/28 (JS),12/14 (KM), and 12/15 (LO). At Eckman Slough, a
favored winter haunt, there were 75 Long-billed Dowitchers on 12/26 (JS).
After several storms, 10 RED PHALAROPES were blown about 5 mi
inland at north Beaver Creek on 12/15 (LO); 1-3 were also at Alsea Bay on
12/14 (KM) and in shallow ponds along the YBSJ on 12/17 (DH & JJ).
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.125 GULLS-ALCIDS
A RING-BILLED GULL with an arrow stuck in it lingered at Florence
(Lane Co.) for at least three weeks in late November and early December
(R&KW). Birds with arrows were also in the Willamette Valley this fall.
The six CASSIN'S AUKLETS beached near Thiel Creek in November is
about average (B&SLo; S&DB).
As also found in Britain, some COMMON MURRES come into breeding
plumage early; for example, five of 15 at Yachats on 12/14 were in
breeding plumage (KM).
* * * * * * * * * * *
97.126 TERRESTRIAL BIRDS
ANNA'S HUMMINGBIRDS were unusual in Toledo this summer, and they
departed on August 25 (J&DC). A male displayed to a female on 12/6 in
South Beach (EH), and Anna's have been regulars at D&BMo's home south of
Waldport in early December.
We were lucky to have two BROWN CREEPER sightings: one at Beaver
Creek on 11/28 (JS) and another climbing a tree near Eckman Lake on 12/17
(SaL & JW).
There were no Lincoln County HERMIT THRUSH reports since last
month, but SS spotted one at Neskowin (Tillamook Co.) on 12/5.
VARIED THRUSHES, too, appear to be rare in Lincoln County lowlands so far
this winter.
Along the coast, DARK-EYED JUNCOS are permanent residents at many
sites, but they are winter residents at others. SS saw the first of the
fall at her Neskowin home on 11/5.
As many as three WESTERN MEADOWLARKS were at Yaquina Head during
eight days in November (BLM).
PURPLE FINCHES are usually scarce in winter, but one was south of
Waldport on 12/14 (D&BMo).
OBSERVERS. Betty Bahn, Range Bayer,Sara & Don Brown, Bureau of
Land Management (BLM) at Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area,
Jesse & Doris Crabtree, Steve Gobat, Chris Hagstrom, Dave Helzer,
Eric Horvath, Karen Houston, Jaime Johnson, Steve Kapillas, Pete Lawson,
Sally Lockyear (SaL), Bob & Shirley (SLo) Loeffel, Roy Lowe,
Kathy Merrifield, Dawson & Bobby Mohler (D&BMo), Barbara & Lyndon
Musolf (B&LMu), Robin & Tom Nelson, Robert Olson, Laimons Osis,
Dave Pitkin, Shirley Schwartz, Jamie Simmons, Ruth & Ken Warren,
Jean Weakland.
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