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09 May sharp-tailed grouse ["Bill Schiess" ] 09 May Western Tanager ["billiemaet" ] 09 May No Subject ["Denise A. Hughes" ] 09 May Market Lake ["intechlw" ] 09 May MacGillvrays Warbler ["steve_and_eileenloerch" ] 08 May Military Reserve, Boise, Ada County ["J. Harry Krueger" ] 08 May Birding Trip Report: Ben's Crow Inn, Ada County, Idaho on May 06, 2008 [] 8 May RE: Lesser Goldfinch ["robwhit AT qwest.net" ] 08 May Birding Trip Report: Lower Barber Pool - ISF Grounds, Ada County, Idaho on May 06, 2008 [] 08 May Morning of Galliformes ["devoeluke" ] 8 May Re: Red-winged Blackbird observation ["J. Harry Krueger" ] 8 May RE: Red-winged Blackbird observation ["Denise Hughes" ] 8 May RE: Red-winged Blackbird observation ["Russ Manwaring" ] 7 May RE: Lesser Goldfinch ["robwhit AT qwest.net" ] 7 May Red-winged Blackbird observation ["Denise Hughes" ] 7 May RE: Red-winged Blackbird observation ["David Lawrence" ] 7 May RE: Re: [IBLE] Red-winged Blackbird observation ["Denise Hughes" ] 7 May Re: Red-winged Blackbird observation ["J. Harry Krueger" ] 7 May RE: Red-winged Blackbird observation ["Denise Hughes" ] 7 May Re: Red-winged Blackbird observation ["J. Harry Krueger" ] 7 May Red-winged Blackbird observation ["Denise Hughes" ] 7 May Lesser Goldfinch ["Lew & Connie Ulrey" ] 07 May Re: Kootenai and Benewah County Big Years ["Shirley Sturts" ] 07 May Re: [inland-NW-birders] Kootenai and Benewah County Big Years ["Shirley Sturts" ] 07 May 2008 Bonneville County UPDATE ["anatidae7" ] 7 May Moscow Vaux's Swifts [] 7 May Re: Yellowstone National Park with quick stop at Centennial Marsh ["John Hansen" ] 07 May May 4 Camas NWR ["Chad Adams" ] 7 May More Hummers [] 7 May Red Crossbill ["Lew & Connie Ulrey" ] 7 May evening grosbeak male [STEPHANY ERWIN ] 7 May spring birds ["Kit Struthers" ] 7 May Treat [STEPHANY ERWIN ] 7 May New Yard Bird, Boise, Ada County ["J. Harry Krueger" ] 07 May Cassin's Finches ["LCARRIGAN_55" ] 6 May Yellowstone National Park with quick stop at Centennial Marsh ["Robert Miller" ] 06 May Valley County Additions ["spencerw100" ] 6 May Re: Hawk ID Assistance [] 6 May Hawk ID Assistance ["Robert Miller" ] 6 May Southwestern Idaho Birders Association, 5/8/2008, 7:00 pm [] 5 May Re: Spring Migrants ["Mike Munts" ] 5 May New Twister Sparrow Species Identified ["Russ Manwaring" ] 5 May 2008 Ada County Big Year List ["Lew & Connie Ulrey" ] 05 May Mayfield Loop (LICS), Elmore County ["J. Harry Krueger" ] 05 May Trueblood-Strike LICS, Elmore and Owyhee County, 5-3 ["J. Harry Krueger" ] 5 May Bullock's Oriole & Lark Sparrow in yard this morning [Jon Barnett ] 05 May Valley County birds ["Philip" ] 05 May I love May! - Star & Joplin (ADA Co.) ["Robert Mortensen" ] 04 May Spring Migrants ["LCARRIGAN_55" ] 4 May Eurasian Collared Doves ["Joyce Ayers" ] 04 May Reply -Eurasian Collared Doves , Harris's Sparrow ["intechlw" ] 4 May Hummers [] Subject: sharp-tailed grouse From: "Bill Schiess" <rubybreleigh AT yahoo.com> Date: Fri, 09 May 2008 18:25:23 -0000 This morning on a sharp-tailed grouse lek, I was taking pictures out of my pickup when I heard a thump. A male had landed on the hood of the truck and stayed there long enough for me to take four pictures of it. Last year on another lek I had one land on my tailgate. These are exciting birds to watch. There are only about half the males that are normally on these leks. It may have been the tough winter. This morning a pair of Northern Harriers flushed the sharpies off twice. Subject: Western Tanager From: "billiemaet" <billiemaet AT yahoo.com> Date: Fri, 09 May 2008 16:57:01 -0000 Just saw my first Western Tanager of this year on a bush arcoss the ally. It was a beautiful male, put a lift in my morning.Boise Northend Subject: No Subject From: "Denise A. Hughes" <dhughes55 AT clearwire.net> Date: Fri, 09 May 2008 09:03:48 -0600 Here is a heartwarming story about a rescued Avocet. This is from the Bird Chat listserve. Denise Hughes Caldwell, Idaho Recently in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma (near Tulsa) we had an unusual rescue of an injured Avocet involving Zoe, a Black Lab and a whole team of folks that just happened to come together. It turned out to be a great human/dog/bird interest story, and was even picked up by our newspaper, the Tulsa World. The complete story with photos is at http://www.tulsaaudubon.org/membersgallery/avocet-rescue.htm Subject: Market Lake From: "intechlw" <tntbutters AT cableone.net> Date: Fri, 09 May 2008 04:51:43 -0000 After work today I took a drive up to Market Lake to see if anything had hunkered down in the Shelterbelt to escape the wind. Not much there although the Harris's Sparrow is still present and the good looks I had of it tonight showed it to be in its breeding plumage now. It continues to hang out in the West windrow on the east side of the walking path as you head north about 50 yds in. I also had a Wilson's, Nashville, and Yellow-rumped warblers (one Myrtle). On the Marsh next to the canal that runs along the road was a Great Egret. Steve Butterworth Idaho Falls Subject: MacGillvrays Warbler From: "steve_and_eileenloerch" <birdsnbugs AT clearwire.net> Date: Fri, 09 May 2008 01:43:53 -0000 I think others have reported this bird for Ada County, but I saw my first today. Eileen South Ada County Subject: Military Reserve, Boise, Ada County From: "J. Harry Krueger" <jhkrueger AT gmail.com> Date: Thu, 08 May 2008 23:18:26 -0000 I was able to take a little longer lunch today, therefore I used my time and went over to the Military Reserve area and birded for about 50 minutes. I was able to tally 21 species (51 individual birds). Worth mentioning was a ridge cruising Northern Goshawk, a FOY (at least for me) Calliope Hummingbird and Dusky Flycatcher (2), and a vocal (but difficult to see) Yellow-breasted Chat. Most conspicuous by their singing were fourteen (14) Lazuli Bunting. Harry Krueger Subject: Birding Trip Report: Ben's Crow Inn, Ada County, Idaho on May 06, 2008 From: rowlandrl AT aol.com Date: Thu, 08 May 2008 19:27:53 GMT This report was mailed for RL Rowland by http://birdnotes.net Date: May 6, 2008 Location: Ben's Crow Inn, Ada County, Idaho Low temperature: 71 degrees fahrenheit High temperature: 73 degrees fahrenheit Wind direction: NW Prevailing wind speed: 12-19 km/h gusting to: 29-38 km/h Percentage of sky covered by clouds: 10% Precipitation: none Hadn't birded this strip along the Boise R. in a long time. Was trying to see if the usual E. Kingbirds had come in yet....they hadn't. Recent drought, paintballers & other users are really pounding the heck out of this area though. Other used-to-be-usuals still missing here include: Blue-gray Gnatcatchers, Gray Catbirds, Warbling Vireos. Birds seen (in taxonomic order): Canada Goose Wood Duck Mallard California Quail Osprey Bald Eagle Red-tailed Hawk American Kestrel Rock Dove Mourning Dove Black-chinned Hummingbird Belted Kingfisher Lewis' Woodpecker Downy Woodpecker Northern Flicker Unidentified Empidonax Western Kingbird Black-billed Magpie Northern Rough-winged Swallow Bank Swallow Cliff Swallow Barn Swallow Ruby-crowned Kinglet American Robin European Starling Nashville Warbler Yellow Warbler Yellow-rumped Warbler Spotted Towhee Song Sparrow Black-headed Grosbeak Lazuli Bunting Red-winged Blackbird Western Meadowlark Brewer's Blackbird Bullock's Oriole House Sparrow Total number of species seen: 37 Subject: RE: Lesser Goldfinch From: "robwhit AT qwest.net" <robwhit@qwest.net> Date: Thu, 8 May 2008 15:54:30 -0400 The 4 count lazuli buntings yesterday are today 9. The black-headed grosbeaks have gone from 4 to 6. Added to the color mix are 4 Cassin's finches (new to the yard list). I suppose it helps a great deal that the hordes of RWBB have moved on to nesting duties. I've been keeping a written record of my feathered visitors here on my side of the bench (NW of Americana/Emerald) for 5 years. These numbers are way beyond any previous counts. Bob Whitlatch Original Message: ----------------- From: robwhit AT qwest.net robwhit AT qwest.net Date: Wed, 7 May 2008 23:38:40 -0400 To: lulrey AT cableone.net, ible AT yahoogroups.com Subject: RE: [IBLE] Lesser Goldfinch Thanks Lew. I was in the San Diego suburb of Poway 2 weeks ago and experienced the same predominant lesser goldfinch factor. Spring yard birding here on this side of the bench has been remarkable. Today the hanging tray feeders hosted an endless transition of l. buntings and b-h grosbeaks. Yeah Spring!!!! Bob Whitlatch Original Message: ----------------- From: Lew & Connie Ulrey lulrey AT cableone.net Date: Wed, 7 May 2008 17:39:55 -0600 To: ible AT yahoogroups.com Subject: [IBLE] Lesser Goldfinch Hello everyone, This afternoon a new yard bird appeared here: a male Lesser Goldfinch. He was a beautiful bird. He came to my thistle seed feeder. He did not stay long, just long enough for me to take several out-of-focus pictures with my 10X zoom digital point and shoot camera. After he left I could not even get the camera to focus on the feeder. Squirrely light I guess. I think I need to consider an SLR. I thought I needed to thank Harry Krueger for sending over the bird he had in his yard a few days ago. However, reading his message again I see his Lesser Goldfinch was a female. Location is everything. When my wife and I were at the San Diego Bird Festival in February, the default goldfinch was Lesser Goldfinch, and American Goldfinch was less abundant. Lew Ulrey Boise lulrey AT cableone.net -------------------------------------------------------------------- mail2web LIVE – Free email based on Microsoft® Exchange technology - http://link.mail2web.com/LIVE -------------------------------------------------------------------- mail2web.com - Microsoft® Exchange solutions from a leading provider - http://link.mail2web.com/Business/Exchange Subject: Birding Trip Report: Lower Barber Pool - ISF Grounds, Ada County, Idaho on May 06, 2008 From: rowlandrl AT aol.com Date: Thu, 08 May 2008 19:09:45 GMT This report was mailed for RL Rowland by http://birdnotes.net Date: May 6, 2008 Location: Lower Barber Pool - ISF Grounds, Ada County, Idaho Low temperature: 64 degrees fahrenheit High temperature: 70 degrees fahrenheit Wind direction: NW Prevailing wind speed: 12-19 km/h gusting to: 29-38 km/h Percentage of sky covered by clouds: 10% Precipitation: none Out-n-about looking for newly arrived spring migrants for the Ada Co. Big Year list. Birds seen (in taxonomic order): Canada Goose Wood Duck Mallard Cinnamon Teal Canvasback [1] Ring-necked Duck Common Merganser California Quail Double-crested Cormorant Great Blue Heron Swainson's Hawk Red-tailed Hawk American Kestrel American Coot Killdeer Ring-billed Gull Rock Dove Mourning Dove Belted Kingfisher Black-billed Magpie Northern Rough-winged Swallow Bank Swallow Cliff Swallow Barn Swallow Ruby-crowned Kinglet American Robin European Starling Nashville Warbler Yellow Warbler Yellow-rumped Warbler [2] Song Sparrow Lazuli Bunting Red-winged Blackbird Brewer's Blackbird Brown-headed Cowbird Bullock's Oriole American Goldfinch House Sparrow Footnotes: [1] Had a single female still here. [2] Single nice Myrtle male in with the Audubons. Later found a separate female Myrtle. Total number of species seen: 38 Subject: Morning of Galliformes From: "devoeluke" <devoeluke AT yahoo.com> Date: Thu, 08 May 2008 18:17:04 -0000 This morning at 5:00 my Brother Jesse DeVoe and a friend Kathryn Meyers hit the road and headed for the sage steppe around Bancroft which is north of Highway 30 east of Lava Hot Springs. We were in search of Sharp Tailed grouse. On the Way there we ran into 12 displaying Sage grouse in the middle of the road. We enjoyed them for about 10 minutes and then head further up the road and spotted 8 displaying sharp tailed grouse. It made for a crisp, cold and romantic morning. Here is a list of other species we spotted. Sandhill Crane Willet American Kestrel Northern Harrier Red-tailed Hawk Short Eared Owl Canada Goose Northern Pintail Mallard Cinnamon Teal Cliff Swallow Barn Swallow Horned Lark Savannah Sparrow Grasshopper Sparrow Vesper Sparrow Lark Sparrow Meadow Lark Black Billed Magpie Common Raven Common Crow Red-winged Blackbird Brewers Blackbird American Robin Western Kingbird Morning Dove Eurasian Collard Dove Subject: Re: Red-winged Blackbird observation From: "J. Harry Krueger" <jhkrueger AT gmail.com> Date: Thu, 8 May 2008 09:10:30 -0600 One thing to remember in all this... There are 14 subspecies of Red-winged Blackbird in North America, with much variation and molt timing differences between them all. The great thing about threads like this one is that they make us all look for closely at the "common species" we see (and all to often overlook the fine points of identification in)... and realize that there is a very specific molt sequence, which can and does account for variations that can often be puzzling if not understood. Harry Krueger On 5/8/08, Denise Hughes wrote: > > I sent a message to a friend who bands birds in Virginia. > > > > Here is his response: > > We see some red feathers on the shoulders of older female Red-winged > Blackbirds that we band here in Virginia. > > Bill > > > > Denise Hughes > > Caldwell, Idaho > > > > *From:* STEPHANY ERWIN [mailto:birdeaux3 AT msn.com] > *Sent:* Thursday, May 08, 2008 7:56 AM > *To:* Denise Hughes > *Subject:* RE: [IBLE] Red-winged Blackbird observation > > > > Hey Denise I have the females coming to my yard and I've never noticed any > red on their wings..............could this be a yearling male? I'm > interested in finding out. Stephany GEAS > > > ------------------------------ > > To: ible AT yahoogroups.com; swiba AT yahoogroups.com > From: dhughes55 AT clearwire.net > Date: Wed, 7 May 2008 18:18:56 -0600 > Subject: [IBLE] Red-winged Blackbird observation > > This afternoon I stopped and watched the Yellow-headed and Red-winged > Blackbirds that have taken over the cattails in a pond along hwy 20/26. I > noticed the females of both species were hassling each other. The female RW > blackbird had a small red area at the top of each of her wings. I have > never noticed any red color on the females before; is this common or was I > imaging it? > > > > Denise Hughes > > Caldwell, Idaho > > > > > > > Subject: RE: Red-winged Blackbird observation From: "Denise Hughes" <dhughes55 AT clearwire.net> Date: Thu, 8 May 2008 08:49:09 -0600 I sent a message to a friend who bands birds in Virginia. Here is his response: We see some red feathers on the shoulders of older female Red-winged Blackbirds that we band here in Virginia. Bill Denise Hughes Caldwell, Idaho From: STEPHANY ERWIN [mailto:birdeaux3 AT msn.com] Sent: Thursday, May 08, 2008 7:56 AM To: Denise Hughes Subject: RE: [IBLE] Red-winged Blackbird observation Hey Denise I have the females coming to my yard and I've never noticed any red on their wings..............could this be a yearling male? I'm interested in finding out. Stephany GEAS _____ To: ible AT yahoogroups.com; swiba AT yahoogroups.com From: dhughes55 AT clearwire.net Date: Wed, 7 May 2008 18:18:56 -0600 Subject: [IBLE] Red-winged Blackbird observation This afternoon I stopped and watched the Yellow-headed and Red-winged Blackbirds that have taken over the cattails in a pond along hwy 20/26. I noticed the females of both species were hassling each other. The female RW blackbird had a small red area at the top of each of her wings. I have never noticed any red color on the females before; is this common or was I imaging it? Denise Hughes Caldwell, Idaho Subject: RE: Red-winged Blackbird observation From: "Russ Manwaring" <rmanwaring AT idahorcd.org> Date: Thu, 8 May 2008 08:45:41 -0600 Denise, so what is really going on? Redwing blackbirds arrive early, chase around and the males set up territories and the ladies settle in. About the same time the Yellow-headed blackbirds appear, always later. Research has shown that yellow-headed blackbirds demand the highest productive part of a wetland to do their rearing. So what happens is the yellow-headed are in the process of driving out the redwings for the best productive part of the wetlands, thus the disputes. And yes female redwings do indeed have just a smidge of red on their wings. Russ Manwaring Emmett, ID From: ible AT yahoogroups.com [mailto:ible AT yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Denise Hughes Sent: Wednesday, May 07, 2008 9:23 PM To: 'David Lawrence'; 'J. Harry Krueger'; 'IBLE'; 'SWIBA' Subject: [IBLE] Red-winged Blackbird observation Very good, Dave. That is what the bird looked like. Denise Hughes Caldwell, Idaho From: ible AT yahoogroups.com [mailto:ible AT yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of David Lawrence Sent: Wednesday, May 07, 2008 8:45 PM To: 'J. Harry Krueger'; 'IBLE'; 'SWIBA' Cc: 'Denise Hughes' Subject: RE: [IBLE] Red-winged Blackbird observation There is a good photo on Flickr Birds of Idaho, from rckymtnman that shows what I believe Denise is describing. The photo is titled as a female, but I'm wondering if it is really the first year male that Harry is descrbing. http://www.flickr.com/photos/rockymountainman/2433512426/in/pool-601606 AT N23 Check it out! Dave Lawrence _____ From: ible AT yahoogroups.com [mailto:ible AT yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of J. Harry Krueger Sent: Wednesday, May 07, 2008 8:12 PM To: IBLE; SWIBA Cc: Denise Hughes Subject: Re: [IBLE] Red-winged Blackbird observation Denise, your follow-up question is a good one. Male birds that have not yet bred, in their second calender year (fledgling to Dec. 31 is the first, Jan. 1 until now is the second) can indeed still show characteristics of their first basic plumage (at this time of year, banders call these birds AHY or just SY). Right now, male birds igoing into their first full summer, are experiencing a pre-alternate (or pre-breeding) plumage molt, where they can be quite variable, some resembling females and others closer to adult males, but usually all with a conspicuous red epaulet... thus your birds that look like females but with red lesser coverts. Confused? I don't blame you, but believe me, you were not imagining. :) Harry Krueger On Wed, May 7, 2008 at 7:29 PM, Denise Hughes wrote: But isn't it a little early for the birds to have fledged? Am I wrong in thinking that the males born last summer have already molted into the black plumage? Denise Hughes Caldwell, Idaho From: jhkrueger AT gmail.com [mailto:jhkrueger AT gmail.com] On Behalf Of J. Harry Krueger Sent: Wednesday, May 07, 2008 7:26 PM To: IBLE; SWIBA Cc: Denise Hughes Subject: Re: [IBLE] Red-winged Blackbird observation Denise, I don't think you are suffering from "springtime birder's imagination," at least not in this case. What you were seeing could be shown by either or both, female or first summer male Red-winged Blackbirds. Although I wouldn't call the reddish feather edging of the female scapulars a "red area at the top of her wings," that is very well what you could have noted.... Or on the other hand, first summer males resemble females and can have a red epaulet or lesser covert area, somewhat akin to, but usually less than in mature males. Both either way... good observation! Harry Krueger On Wed, May 7, 2008 at 6:18 PM, Denise Hughes wrote: This afternoon I stopped and watched the Yellow-headed and Red-winged Blackbirds that have taken over the cattails in a pond along hwy 20/26. I noticed the females of both species were hassling each other. The female RW blackbird had a small red area at the top of each of her wings. I have never noticed any red color on the females before; is this common or was I imaging it? Denise Hughes Caldwell, Idaho __________ NOD32 3084 (20080508) Information __________ This message was checked by NOD32 antivirus system. http://www.eset.com Subject: RE: Lesser Goldfinch From: "robwhit AT qwest.net" <robwhit@qwest.net> Date: Wed, 7 May 2008 23:38:40 -0400 Thanks Lew. I was in the San Diego suburb of Poway 2 weeks ago and experienced the same predominant lesser goldfinch factor. Spring yard birding here on this side of the bench has been remarkable. Today the hanging tray feeders hosted an endless transition of l. buntings and b-h grosbeaks. Yeah Spring!!!! Bob Whitlatch Original Message: ----------------- From: Lew & Connie Ulrey lulrey AT cableone.net Date: Wed, 7 May 2008 17:39:55 -0600 To: ible AT yahoogroups.com Subject: [IBLE] Lesser Goldfinch Hello everyone, This afternoon a new yard bird appeared here: a male Lesser Goldfinch. He was a beautiful bird. He came to my thistle seed feeder. He did not stay long, just long enough for me to take several out-of-focus pictures with my 10X zoom digital point and shoot camera. After he left I could not even get the camera to focus on the feeder. Squirrely light I guess. I think I need to consider an SLR. I thought I needed to thank Harry Krueger for sending over the bird he had in his yard a few days ago. However, reading his message again I see his Lesser Goldfinch was a female. Location is everything. When my wife and I were at the San Diego Bird Festival in February, the default goldfinch was Lesser Goldfinch, and American Goldfinch was less abundant. Lew Ulrey Boise lulrey AT cableone.net -------------------------------------------------------------------- mail2web LIVE – Free email based on Microsoft® Exchange technology - http://link.mail2web.com/LIVE Subject: Red-winged Blackbird observation From: "Denise Hughes" <dhughes55 AT clearwire.net> Date: Wed, 7 May 2008 21:22:59 -0600 Very good, Dave. That is what the bird looked like. Denise Hughes Caldwell, Idaho From: ible AT yahoogroups.com [mailto:ible AT yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of David Lawrence Sent: Wednesday, May 07, 2008 8:45 PM To: 'J. Harry Krueger'; 'IBLE'; 'SWIBA' Cc: 'Denise Hughes' Subject: RE: [IBLE] Red-winged Blackbird observation There is a good photo on Flickr Birds of Idaho, from rckymtnman that shows what I believe Denise is describing. The photo is titled as a female, but I'm wondering if it is really the first year male that Harry is descrbing. http://www.flickr.com/photos/rockymountainman/2433512426/in/pool-601606 AT N23 Check it out! Dave Lawrence _____ From: ible AT yahoogroups.com [mailto:ible AT yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of J. Harry Krueger Sent: Wednesday, May 07, 2008 8:12 PM To: IBLE; SWIBA Cc: Denise Hughes Subject: Re: [IBLE] Red-winged Blackbird observation Denise, your follow-up question is a good one. Male birds that have not yet bred, in their second calender year (fledgling to Dec. 31 is the first, Jan. 1 until now is the second) can indeed still show characteristics of their first basic plumage (at this time of year, banders call these birds AHY or just SY). Right now, male birds igoing into their first full summer, are experiencing a pre-alternate (or pre-breeding) plumage molt, where they can be quite variable, some resembling females and others closer to adult males, but usually all with a conspicuous red epaulet... thus your birds that look like females but with red lesser coverts. Confused? I don't blame you, but believe me, you were not imagining. :) Harry Krueger On Wed, May 7, 2008 at 7:29 PM, Denise Hughes wrote: But isn't it a little early for the birds to have fledged? Am I wrong in thinking that the males born last summer have already molted into the black plumage? Denise Hughes Caldwell, Idaho From: jhkrueger AT gmail.com [mailto:jhkrueger AT gmail.com] On Behalf Of J. Harry Krueger Sent: Wednesday, May 07, 2008 7:26 PM To: IBLE; SWIBA Cc: Denise Hughes Subject: Re: [IBLE] Red-winged Blackbird observation Denise, I don't think you are suffering from "springtime birder's imagination," at least not in this case. What you were seeing could be shown by either or both, female or first summer male Red-winged Blackbirds. Although I wouldn't call the reddish feather edging of the female scapulars a "red area at the top of her wings," that is very well what you could have noted.... Or on the other hand, first summer males resemble females and can have a red epaulet or lesser covert area, somewhat akin to, but usually less than in mature males. Both either way... good observation! Harry Krueger On Wed, May 7, 2008 at 6:18 PM, Denise Hughes wrote: This afternoon I stopped and watched the Yellow-headed and Red-winged Blackbirds that have taken over the cattails in a pond along hwy 20/26. I noticed the females of both species were hassling each other. The female RW blackbird had a small red area at the top of each of her wings. I have never noticed any red color on the females before; is this common or was I imaging it? Denise Hughes Caldwell, Idaho __________ NOD32 3084 (20080508) Information __________ This message was checked by NOD32 antivirus system. http://www.eset.com Subject: RE: Red-winged Blackbird observation From: "David Lawrence" <lawde13 AT cableone.net> Date: Wed, 7 May 2008 20:44:53 -0600 There is a good photo on Flickr Birds of Idaho, from rckymtnman that shows what I believe Denise is describing. The photo is titled as a female, but I'm wondering if it is really the first year male that Harry is descrbing. http://www.flickr.com/photos/rockymountainman/2433512426/in/pool-601606 AT N23 Check it out! Dave Lawrence _____ From: ible AT yahoogroups.com [mailto:ible AT yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of J. Harry Krueger Sent: Wednesday, May 07, 2008 8:12 PM To: IBLE; SWIBA Cc: Denise Hughes Subject: Re: [IBLE] Red-winged Blackbird observation Denise, your follow-up question is a good one. Male birds that have not yet bred, in their second calender year (fledgling to Dec. 31 is the first, Jan. 1 until now is the second) can indeed still show characteristics of their first basic plumage (at this time of year, banders call these birds AHY or just SY). Right now, male birds igoing into their first full summer, are experiencing a pre-alternate (or pre-breeding) plumage molt, where they can be quite variable, some resembling females and others closer to adult males, but usually all with a conspicuous red epaulet... thus your birds that look like females but with red lesser coverts. Confused? I don't blame you, but believe me, you were not imagining. :) Harry Krueger On Wed, May 7, 2008 at 7:29 PM, Denise Hughes .net> wrote: But isn't it a little early for the birds to have fledged? Am I wrong in thinking that the males born last summer have already molted into the black plumage? Denise Hughes Caldwell, Idaho From: jhkrueger AT gmail. com [mailto:jhkrueger AT gmail. com] On Behalf Of J. Harry Krueger Sent: Wednesday, May 07, 2008 7:26 PM To: IBLE; SWIBA Cc: Denise Hughes Subject: Re: [IBLE] Red-winged Blackbird observation Denise, I don't think you are suffering from "springtime birder's imagination," at least not in this case. What you were seeing could be shown by either or both, female or first summer male Red-winged Blackbirds. Although I wouldn't call the reddish feather edging of the female scapulars a "red area at the top of her wings," that is very well what you could have noted.... Or on the other hand, first summer males resemble females and can have a red epaulet or lesser covert area, somewhat akin to, but usually less than in mature males. Both either way... good observation! Harry Krueger On Wed, May 7, 2008 at 6:18 PM, Denise Hughes .net> wrote: This afternoon I stopped and watched the Yellow-headed and Red-winged Blackbirds that have taken over the cattails in a pond along hwy 20/26. I noticed the females of both species were hassling each other. The female RW blackbird had a small red area at the top of each of her wings. I have never noticed any red color on the females before; is this common or was I imaging it? Denise Hughes Caldwell, Idaho __________ NOD32 3084 (20080508) Information __________ This message was checked by NOD32 antivirus system. http://www.eset.com Subject: RE: Re: [IBLE] Red-winged Blackbird observation From: "Denise Hughes" <dhughes55 AT clearwire.net> Date: Wed, 7 May 2008 20:43:42 -0600 The bird I saw was picking on a female YH blackbird, the female had pieces of grass in her bill. The males of both species were very active flying at each other. I guess they are all getting too close to each others nests. Denise Hughes Caldwell, Idaho From: swiba AT yahoogroups.com [mailto:swiba AT yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of J. Harry Krueger Sent: Wednesday, May 07, 2008 8:12 PM To: IBLE; SWIBA Cc: Denise Hughes Subject: [swiba] Re: [IBLE] Red-winged Blackbird observation Denise, your follow-up question is a good one. Male birds that have not yet bred, in their second calender year (fledgling to Dec. 31 is the first, Jan. 1 until now is the second) can indeed still show characteristics of their first basic plumage (at this time of year, banders call these birds AHY or just SY). Right now, male birds igoing into their first full summer, are experiencing a pre-alternate (or pre-breeding) plumage molt, where they can be quite variable, some resembling females and others closer to adult males, but usually all with a conspicuous red epaulet... thus your birds that look like females but with red lesser coverts. Confused? I don't blame you, but believe me, you were not imagining. :) Harry Krueger On Wed, May 7, 2008 at 7:29 PM, Denise Hughes wrote: But isn't it a little early for the birds to have fledged? Am I wrong in thinking that the males born last summer have already molted into the black plumage? Denise Hughes Caldwell, Idaho From: jhkrueger AT gmail.com [mailto:jhkrueger AT gmail.com] On Behalf Of J. Harry Krueger Sent: Wednesday, May 07, 2008 7:26 PM To: IBLE; SWIBA Cc: Denise Hughes Subject: Re: [IBLE] Red-winged Blackbird observation Denise, I don't think you are suffering from "springtime birder's imagination," at least not in this case. What you were seeing could be shown by either or both, female or first summer male Red-winged Blackbirds. Although I wouldn't call the reddish feather edging of the female scapulars a "red area at the top of her wings," that is very well what you could have noted.... Or on the other hand, first summer males resemble females and can have a red epaulet or lesser covert area, somewhat akin to, but usually less than in mature males. Both either way... good observation! Harry Krueger On Wed, May 7, 2008 at 6:18 PM, Denise Hughes wrote: This afternoon I stopped and watched the Yellow-headed and Red-winged Blackbirds that have taken over the cattails in a pond along hwy 20/26. I noticed the females of both species were hassling each other. The female RW blackbird had a small red area at the top of each of her wings. I have never noticed any red color on the females before; is this common or was I imaging it? Denise Hughes Caldwell, Idaho Subject: Re: Red-winged Blackbird observation From: "J. Harry Krueger" <jhkrueger AT gmail.com> Date: Wed, 7 May 2008 20:12:12 -0600 Denise, your follow-up question is a good one. Male birds that have not yet bred, in their second calender year (fledgling to Dec. 31 is the first, Jan. 1 until now is the second) can indeed still show characteristics of their first basic plumage (at this time of year, banders call these birds AHY or just SY). Right now, male birds igoing into their first full summer, are experiencing a pre-alternate (or pre-breeding) plumage molt, where they can be quite variable, some resembling females and others closer to adult males, but usually all with a conspicuous red epaulet... thus your birds that look like females but with red lesser coverts. Confused? I don't blame you, but believe me, you were not imagining. :) Harry Krueger On Wed, May 7, 2008 at 7:29 PM, Denise Hughes wrote: > But isn't it a little early for the birds to have fledged? Am I wrong in > thinking that the males born last summer have already molted into the black > plumage? > > > > Denise Hughes > > Caldwell, Idaho > > > > *From:* jhkrueger AT gmail.com [mailto:jhkrueger AT gmail.com] *On Behalf Of *J. > Harry Krueger > *Sent:* Wednesday, May 07, 2008 7:26 PM > *To:* IBLE; SWIBA > *Cc:* Denise Hughes > *Subject:* Re: [IBLE] Red-winged Blackbird observation > > > > Denise, > > I don't think you are suffering from "springtime birder's imagination," at > least not in this case. What you were seeing could be shown by either or > both, female or first summer male Red-winged Blackbirds. Although I > wouldn't call the reddish feather edging of the female scapulars a "red area > at the top of her wings," that is very well what you could have noted.... > Or on the other hand, first summer males resemble females and can have a red > epaulet or lesser covert area, somewhat akin to, but usually less than in > mature males. > > Both either way... good observation! > > Harry Krueger > > On Wed, May 7, 2008 at 6:18 PM, Denise Hughes > wrote: > > This afternoon I stopped and watched the Yellow-headed and Red-winged > Blackbirds that have taken over the cattails in a pond along hwy 20/26. I > noticed the females of both species were hassling each other. The female RW > blackbird had a small red area at the top of each of her wings. I have > never noticed any red color on the females before; is this common or was I > imaging it? > > > > Denise Hughes > > Caldwell, Idaho > > > > > > > Subject: RE: Red-winged Blackbird observation From: "Denise Hughes" <dhughes55 AT clearwire.net> Date: Wed, 7 May 2008 19:32:59 -0600 The reddish area wasn't well defined and it definitely was not as red as the male's stripe. The color caught my eye and it seemed to be at the upper part of the wing. Denise Hughes Caldwell, Idaho From: jhkrueger AT gmail.com [mailto:jhkrueger AT gmail.com] On Behalf Of J. Harry Krueger Sent: Wednesday, May 07, 2008 7:26 PM To: IBLE; SWIBA Cc: Denise Hughes Subject: Re: [IBLE] Red-winged Blackbird observation Denise, I don't think you are suffering from "springtime birder's imagination," at least not in this case. What you were seeing could be shown by either or both, female or first summer male Red-winged Blackbirds. Although I wouldn't call the reddish feather edging of the female scapulars a "red area at the top of her wings," that is very well what you could have noted.... Or on the other hand, first summer males resemble females and can have a red epaulet or lesser covert area, somewhat akin to, but usually less than in mature males. Both either way... good observation! Harry Krueger On Wed, May 7, 2008 at 6:18 PM, Denise Hughes wrote: This afternoon I stopped and watched the Yellow-headed and Red-winged Blackbirds that have taken over the cattails in a pond along hwy 20/26. I noticed the females of both species were hassling each other. The female RW blackbird had a small red area at the top of each of her wings. I have never noticed any red color on the females before; is this common or was I imaging it? Denise Hughes Caldwell, Idaho Subject: Re: Red-winged Blackbird observation From: "J. Harry Krueger" <jhkrueger AT gmail.com> Date: Wed, 7 May 2008 19:26:20 -0600 Denise, I don't think you are suffering from "springtime birder's imagination," at least not in this case. What you were seeing could be shown by either or both, female or first summer male Red-winged Blackbirds. Although I wouldn't call the reddish feather edging of the female scapulars a "red area at the top of her wings," that is very well what you could have noted.... Or on the other hand, first summer males resemble females and can have a red epaulet or lesser covert area, somewhat akin to, but usually less than in mature males. Both either way... good observation! Harry Krueger On Wed, May 7, 2008 at 6:18 PM, Denise Hughes wrote: > This afternoon I stopped and watched the Yellow-headed and Red-winged > Blackbirds that have taken over the cattails in a pond along hwy 20/26. I > noticed the females of both species were hassling each other. The female RW > blackbird had a small red area at the top of each of her wings. I have > never noticed any red color on the females before; is this common or was I > imaging it? > > > > Denise Hughes > > Caldwell, Idaho > > > > > Subject: Red-winged Blackbird observation From: "Denise Hughes" <dhughes55 AT clearwire.net> Date: Wed, 7 May 2008 18:18:56 -0600 This afternoon I stopped and watched the Yellow-headed and Red-winged Blackbirds that have taken over the cattails in a pond along hwy 20/26. I noticed the females of both species were hassling each other. The female RW blackbird had a small red area at the top of each of her wings. I have never noticed any red color on the females before; is this common or was I imaging it? Denise Hughes Caldwell, Idaho Subject: Lesser Goldfinch From: "Lew & Connie Ulrey" <lulrey AT cableone.net> Date: Wed, 7 May 2008 17:39:55 -0600 Hello everyone, This afternoon a new yard bird appeared here: a male Lesser Goldfinch. He was a beautiful bird. He came to my thistle seed feeder. He did not stay long, just long enough for me to take several out-of-focus pictures with my 10X zoom digital point and shoot camera. After he left I could not even get the camera to focus on the feeder. Squirrely light I guess. I think I need to consider an SLR. I thought I needed to thank Harry Krueger for sending over the bird he had in his yard a few days ago. However, reading his message again I see his Lesser Goldfinch was a female. Location is everything. When my wife and I were at the San Diego Bird Festival in February, the default goldfinch was Lesser Goldfinch, and American Goldfinch was less abundant. Lew Ulrey Boise lulrey AT cableone.net Subject: Re: Kootenai and Benewah County Big Years From: "Shirley Sturts" <s.sturts AT verizon.net> Date: Wed, 07 May 2008 11:50:03 -0700 Fran and others: Several people have asked me about the new species (hybrids) I have created: Virginia Warbler and Cassin's Hummingbird :-). There is a, Virginia's Warbler as you know, but that is not what was seen in Kootenai County. The true names of these two species are: Virginia Rail and Calliope Hummingbird. I promise to take more time with future emails and read over what I'm reporting. Shirley Sturts Coeur d'Alene, ID ----- Original Message ----- From: "Fran Haywood" To: "Shirley Sturts" Sent: Wednesday, May 07, 2008 6:39 AM Subject: Re: [inland-NW-birders] Kootenai and Benewah County Big Years > Cassin's Hummingbird? Benewah County # 74 > > On Mon, May 5, 2008 at 1:09 PM, Shirley Sturts > wrote: > >> Kootenai County >> >> 126 Savannah Sparrow April 11 >> 127 Vesper Sparrow April 21 >> 128 Virginia Warbler April 29 Fernan lake Kris Buchler >> 129 Sora - May 2 Fernan lake Kris Buchler and Shirley >> Sturts >> 130 Yellow Warbler - May 2 Fernan Lake - Kris Buchler >> 131 Chipping Sparrow - May 3 CDA - Kris Buchler >> 132 Rufous Hummingbird - May 3 CDA Kris Buchler >> 133 American Pipit - April 21 - Hardy Loop (Cataldo area) - >> Lisa Hardy >> On May 4th along River Road south of Cataldo - Lisa Hardy >> reported >> 134 Hammond's Flycatcher >> 135 Cassin's Vireo >> 136 Eared Grebe >> >> Benewah County >> all reported by Donni Moen St. Maries >> 74 Cassin's Hummingbird May 4 >> 75 Rufous Hummingbird May 5 >> 76 Cassin's Vireo May 5 >> >> >> >> >> Shirley Sturts >> Coeur d'Alene, ID >> _______________________________________________ >> Inland-nw-birders mailing list >> Inland-nw-birders AT uidaho.edu >> https://www.lists.uidaho.edu/mailman/listinfo/inland-nw-birders >> > _______________________________________________ Inland-nw-birders mailing list Inland-nw-birders AT uidaho.edu https://www.lists.uidaho.edu/mailman/listinfo/inland-nw-birders Subject: Re: [inland-NW-birders] Kootenai and Benewah County Big Years From: "Shirley Sturts" <s.sturts AT verizon.net> Date: Wed, 07 May 2008 11:50:03 -0700 Fran and others: Several people have asked me about the new species (hybrids) I have created: Virginia Warbler and Cassin's Hummingbird :-). There is a, Virginia's Warbler as you know, but that is not what was seen in Kootenai County. The true names of these two species are: Virginia Rail and Calliope Hummingbird. I promise to take more time with future emails and read over what I'm reporting. Shirley Sturts Coeur d'Alene, ID ----- Original Message ----- From: "Fran Haywood" To: "Shirley Sturts" Sent: Wednesday, May 07, 2008 6:39 AM Subject: Re: [inland-NW-birders] Kootenai and Benewah County Big Years > Cassin's Hummingbird? Benewah County # 74 > > On Mon, May 5, 2008 at 1:09 PM, Shirley Sturts > wrote: > >> Kootenai County >> >> 126 Savannah Sparrow April 11 >> 127 Vesper Sparrow April 21 >> 128 Virginia Warbler April 29 Fernan lake Kris Buchler >> 129 Sora - May 2 Fernan lake Kris Buchler and Shirley >> Sturts >> 130 Yellow Warbler - May 2 Fernan Lake - Kris Buchler >> 131 Chipping Sparrow - May 3 CDA - Kris Buchler >> 132 Rufous Hummingbird - May 3 CDA Kris Buchler >> 133 American Pipit - April 21 - Hardy Loop (Cataldo area) - >> Lisa Hardy >> On May 4th along River Road south of Cataldo - Lisa Hardy >> reported >> 134 Hammond's Flycatcher >> 135 Cassin's Vireo >> 136 Eared Grebe >> >> Benewah County >> all reported by Donni Moen St. Maries >> 74 Cassin's Hummingbird May 4 >> 75 Rufous Hummingbird May 5 >> 76 Cassin's Vireo May 5 >> >> >> >> >> Shirley Sturts >> Coeur d'Alene, ID >> _______________________________________________ >> Inland-nw-birders mailing list >> Inland-nw-birders AT uidaho.edu >> https://www.lists.uidaho.edu/mailman/listinfo/inland-nw-birders >> > Subject: 2008 Bonneville County UPDATE From: "anatidae7" <harlequin_duck AT hotmail.com> Date: Wed, 07 May 2008 18:44:44 -0000 Hi all, Here are a few more birds of Bonneville County: 103. Juniper Titmouse 5/2/08 Pinecrest Golf course Steve Butterworth 104. Red-naped Sapsucker 5/2/08 Pinecrest Golf course Steve Butterworth 105. Song Sparrow 5/2/08 Snake River Steve Butterworth 106. Bullock's Oriole 5/6/08 Yard Bird Kit Struthers Thanks, Jake Briggs Idaho Falls harlequin_duck AT hotmail.com Subject: Moscow Vaux's Swifts From: <clgtlg AT moscow.com> Date: Wed, 7 May 2008 18:26:46 GMT Hi Everyone, I have been watching a couple of chimneys in Moscow since April 27th. The following dates and numbers have been observed: 4/27 32 4/28 22 4/30 8 5/5 35 5/6 68 The first two evenings they were enttering 2 separaate chimneys but now are only using the chimney at the north side of the Latah Title Company building on Second and Main. Birds are easiest to see from the alley east of the building. Thanks, Terry Gray --------------------------------------------- This message was sent by First Step Internet. http://www.fsr.com/ Subject: Re: Yellowstone National Park with quick stop at Centennial Marsh From: "John Hansen" <majorhart AT sbcglobal.net> Date: Wed, 7 May 2008 12:31:04 -0500 That was a very interesting article. I enjoyed it. Thanks John Hansen majorhart AT sbcglobal.net The Ebook Dashboard http://ebook-dashboard.com Ebook Store Site2 http://the-texas-mall.com/cbstore2 ----- Original Message ----- From: Robert Miller To: ible AT yahoogroups.com Sent: Tuesday, May 06, 2008 2:37 PM Subject: [IBLE] Yellowstone National Park with quick stop at Centennial Marsh IBLE, I just returned from vacation in Yellowstone National Park. My wife and I were bird and wildlife watching while we were there. I thought some of you might be interested in my photos and journal, they are about 50% bird related. Photos: http://picasaweb.google.com/rob.wolf21m/Yellowstone2008 Journal (all on my blog:http://wolf21m.blogspot.com/ ): http://wolf21m.blogspot.com/2008/04/coyotes-and-carcasses.html http://wolf21m.blogspot.com/2008/04/wolves.html http://wolf21m.blogspot.com/2008/04/wolves-wolves-wolves-wolves_29.html http://wolf21m.blogspot.com/2008/04/3.html http://wolf21m.blogspot.com/2008/05/4.html http://wolf21m.blogspot.com/2008/05/live-love-and-die.html http://wolf21m.blogspot.com/2008/05/close-encounters.html -- =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Rob Miller blog: Rob's Idaho Perspective - http://wolf21m.blogspot.com/ LinkedIn Profile: http://www.linkedin.com/in/wolf21m "There are some who can live without wild things. I for one cannot!" -Aldo Leopold I GoodSearch for Defenders of Wildlife. Raise money for your favorite charity by searching the Internet with GoodSearch - www.goodsearch.com. Subject: May 4 Camas NWR From: "Chad Adams" <candjbirds AT yahoo.com> Date: Wed, 07 May 2008 17:09:17 -0000 At a quick drive/walk through Camas NWR this past Sunday, May 4, we observed several Sandhill Cranes (approx 50), 2 White-faced Ibis, a single Green-Tailed Towhee, a single Snow or Ross Goose, Swainsons Hawks, Red Tailed Hawk on nest, 2 swans (not sure which species too far away), several Yellow-Rumped Warblers, and Ruddy Ducks, Mallards, Northern Shovelers and Scaups, as well as 2 Great Horned Owls and good numbers of Red-Winged and Yellow-Headed Blackbirds. Subject: More Hummers From: moorews AT aol.com Date: Wed, 7 May 2008 12:52:47 EDT The Broad-tailed Hummingbirds returned yesterday and the Black-headed Grossbeaks showed up on Sunday. We now have both Evening and Black-headed enjoying the sunflower seed, which hasn't happened in the past. Cassins Finches returned a while ago and Blue Birds and Swallows are by the nest boxes. Bill Moore Inkom **************Wondering what's for Dinner Tonight? Get new twists on family favorites at AOL Food. (http://food.aol.com/dinner-tonight?NCID=aolfod00030000000001) Subject: Red Crossbill From: "Lew & Connie Ulrey" <lulrey AT cableone.net> Date: Wed, 7 May 2008 09:28:23 -0600 This morning three Red Crossbills feasted on cones in the big blue spruce in my yard. I am very hopeful about the digiscoping pictures I took of them. Much of the time the birds were back lit, which is not good, but at other moments the light was better. Anyway Red Crossbill is nothing rare, except from the provincial perspective of my back yard. Lew Ulrey Boise lulrey AT cableone.net Subject: evening grosbeak male From: STEPHANY ERWIN <birdeaux3 AT msn.com> Date: Wed, 7 May 2008 09:19:57 -0600 spotted at feeder a male evening grosbeak......... Stephany Boise Depot Bench area Subject: spring birds From: "Kit Struthers" <kit619 AT ida.net> Date: Wed, 7 May 2008 07:44:38 -0600 A female Bullock's Oriole appeared in our yard late yesterday afternoon. There were also 4-5 White-crowned Sparrows feeding on the ground under the feeder and singing somewhere. Kit Kit Struthers, Idaho Falls, ID kit619 AT ida.net Subject: Treat From: STEPHANY ERWIN <birdeaux3 AT msn.com> Date: Wed, 7 May 2008 07:23:30 -0600 This morning while having my coffee outside this I had a nice treat...............Cassin's finches (6) White Crown Sparrow (1) Lazuli Bunting (1) they were all foraging around under a feeder but near the black berry bramble.........what a nice way to wake up and drink the coffee. Stephany Depot Bench area Subject: New Yard Bird, Boise, Ada County From: "J. Harry Krueger" <jhkrueger AT gmail.com> Date: Wed, 7 May 2008 01:55:30 -0600 This afternoon (5/6), I had a female plumaged Lesser Goldfinch made repeated visits to my thistle feeders... always alone, not in company with American Goldfinch, who always seem to visit in multiples. Although American Goldfinch is a regular feeder visitor and resident of my Boise Bench neighborhood, this is the first time I've encountered a Lesser Goldfinch here. Not really a "big deal,' but a new yard bird is always nice to get. J. Harry Krueger Subject: Cassin's Finches From: "LCARRIGAN_55" <lcarrigan_55 AT yahoo.com> Date: Wed, 07 May 2008 03:00:03 -0000 This evening had about a half dozen Cassin's Finches come into the feeders. Brian Carrigan Blackfoot Subject: Yellowstone National Park with quick stop at Centennial Marsh From: "Robert Miller" <wolf21m AT dekramerart.com> Date: Tue, 6 May 2008 13:37:41 -0600 IBLE, I just returned from vacation in Yellowstone National Park. My wife and I were bird and wildlife watching while we were there. I thought some of you might be interested in my photos and journal, they are about 50% bird related. Photos: http://picasaweb.google.com/rob.wolf21m/Yellowstone2008 Journal (all on my blog:http://wolf21m.blogspot.com/ ): http://wolf21m.blogspot.com/2008/04/coyotes-and-carcasses.html http://wolf21m.blogspot.com/2008/04/wolves.html http://wolf21m.blogspot.com/2008/04/wolves-wolves-wolves-wolves_29.html http://wolf21m.blogspot.com/2008/04/3.html http://wolf21m.blogspot.com/2008/05/4.html http://wolf21m.blogspot.com/2008/05/live-love-and-die.html http://wolf21m.blogspot.com/2008/05/close-encounters.html -- =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Rob Miller blog: Rob's Idaho Perspective - http://wolf21m.blogspot.com/ LinkedIn Profile: http://www.linkedin.com/in/wolf21m "There are some who can live without wild things. I for one cannot!" -Aldo Leopold I GoodSearch for Defenders of Wildlife. Raise money for your favorite charity by searching the Internet with GoodSearch - www.goodsearch.com. Subject: Valley County Additions From: "spencerw100" <spencerw100 AT yahoo.com> Date: Tue, 06 May 2008 17:04:07 -0000 Things are starting to pick up in Valley County. These are #46-59. April 29: All birds seen by Philip Kline Horned Grebe Red-necked Grebe Wild Turkey Killdeer Hairy Woodpecker Pileated Woodpecker American Crow Northern Rough-winged Swallow Red-breasted Nuthatch Golden-crowned Kinglet Vesper Sparrow Lark Sparrow Song Sparrow White-crowned Sparrow Spencer Walters Garden Valley, Boise County Subject: Re: Hawk ID Assistance From: <susanlindstedt AT peoplepc.com> Date: Tue, 6 May 2008 07:41:57 -0700 Nice photos. Its a Swainsons Hawk. The white on the face, just above and below the bill is typical. Susan Homedale Subject: Hawk ID Assistance From: "Robert Miller" <wolf21m AT dekramerart.com> Date: Tue, 6 May 2008 07:02:56 -0600 IBLE, I am in need of a little ID assistance once again. I took the two attached photos near centennial marsh a few weeks ago. The first shows the Hawk on a power pole, the second shows it attacking a Red-tailed Hawk. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks -- =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Rob Miller blog: Rob's Idaho Perspective - http://wolf21m.blogspot.com/ LinkedIn Profile: http://www.linkedin.com/in/wolf21m "There are some who can live without wild things. I for one cannot!" -Aldo Leopold I GoodSearch for Defenders of Wildlife. Raise money for your favorite charity by searching the Internet with GoodSearch - www.goodsearch.com. Subject: Southwestern Idaho Birders Association, 5/8/2008, 7:00 pm From: ible AT yahoogroups.com Date: 6 May 2008 00:57:12 -0000 Reminder from: ible Yahoo! Group http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ible/cal Southwestern Idaho Birders Association Thursday May 8, 2008 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Location: Visitor Center at Deer Flat NWR, Lake Lowell, Nampa, ID Notes: Spike Baker will present "A Photo-journey of Birding in Canada and Alaska" The 2800 mile trip was made in the summer of 2007. for more information phone Peggy Williams 208.867.5154 All Rights Reserved Copyright © 2008 Yahoo! Inc. http://www.yahoo.com Privacy Policy: http://privacy.yahoo.com/privacy/us Terms of Service: http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/ Subject: Re: Spring Migrants From: "Mike Munts" <mmunts AT atcnet.net> Date: Mon, 5 May 2008 17:26:15 -0600 Brian and IBLE, Actually I see an Osprey or two almost every spring, out here in the sagebrush. I even have 3 or 4 sightings at Craters, which is about as dry as Idaho gets. My most recent Osprey was sitting on an irrigation pivot just north of Craters. It was snowing at the time so they will land most anywhere when the weather is bad or they need to rest. Mike Arco ----- Original Message ----- From: LCARRIGAN_55 To: ible AT yahoogroups.com Sent: Sunday, May 04, 2008 5:09 PM Subject: [IBLE] Spring Migrants Today, have had Ruby-crowned Kinglets, Brown Creeper, White-crowned Sparrows and Audubon's Warblers coming through since mid-morning. Also, Red-tailed Hawks, Swainson's Hawks, Bald Eagle, Am. Kestrel and Sharp-shinned Hawk have passed by overhead. Yesterday, spotted an Osprey perched on a large utility pole out in the sagebrush by the INL Site at the turnoff to Howe. Guess even a migrating Osprey has to make a rest stop every so often. Brian Carrigan Blackfoot Subject: New Twister Sparrow Species Identified From: "Russ Manwaring" <rmanwaring AT idahorcd.org> Date: Mon, 5 May 2008 16:49:08 -0600 cid:014001c8ad48$afcc46f0$8C10D0DF AT Home Sorry not, my work, but great photo Russ Manwaring Emmett, ID Subject: 2008 Ada County Big Year List From: "Lew & Connie Ulrey" <lulrey AT cableone.net> Date: Mon, 5 May 2008 16:20:18 -0600 Hello fellow birders, Here are recent additions to the Ada County list: #180 Western Wood-Pewee, 5/1, Military Reserve, Harry Krueger #181 Wilson's Phalarope, 5/5, Star & Joplin Rds., Robert Mortensen #182 Lesser Yellowlegs, 5/3, , Star & Joplin Rds., Robert Mortensen #183 Black-headed Grosbeak, 5/2, Boise Foothills East, Barb Hilliard #184 MacGillivray's Warbler, 5/2, Crow Inn, Harry Krueger #185 Townsend's Warbler, 5/3, Swan Falls Dam Park, RL Rowland #186 Green-tailed Towhee, 5/3, Swan Falls Dam Park, RL Rowland #187 Lark Sparrow, 5/3, Swan Falls Dam Park, RL Rowland #188 Bank Swallow, 5/3, Pleasant Valley Road Gravel Pit, RL Rowland Lew Ulrey Boise lulrey AT cableone.net Subject: Mayfield Loop (LICS), Elmore County From: "J. Harry Krueger" <jhkrueger AT gmail.com> Date: Mon, 05 May 2008 21:55:44 -0000 This (Sunday, 4 May) was the 8th consecutive weekend LICS (Locality Intensive Coverage Survey) for this area in Elmore County, north of the Orchard-Mayfield exit of I-84 east of Boise. Barbara Alexander, a newer birder and IBLEite, was a ride-along (Anyone else wanting to see how these LICS are done are invited to join me on any given Sunday… just send me an e-mail and I'll try to make it happen). The temperature by 3:30 PM starting time was 74 degrees F. with clear skies and very little breeze. The total of species seen was the highest yet for this LICS, although the total number of individual birds was down 27 from last week. Total daily species seen: 40 Total individual birds: 278 Total species for LICS since inception: 74 New LICS species: Lewis's Woodpecker, Chipping Sparrow, Brewer's Sparrow, Luzuli Bunting, Bullock's Oriole Small flock of Canada Goose that was present in Mayfield proper is now absent, with only 8 geese seen on the permanent pond south of "town." Other waterfowl were non-existent (other than a lone Mallard). For the third time in 8 weeks, both Sharp-shinned Hawk (1) and Cooper's Hawk (1) were seen on the same day. The obvious six (6) Lewis's Woodpecker were consistent with a larger movement of these birds into southwestern Idaho (see the summary of the 4/3/2008 Trueblood-Strike LICS). Western Kingbirds were well distributed throughout, with an even dozen seen. Only the second Rock Wren (heard) since the start of the LICS was registered. A lone vocalizing American Robin at Mayfield was the only representative of its species encountered. Nineteen (19) Yellow-rumped Warbler was a high count. A single (1) Chipping Sparrow and four (4) Brewer's Sparrow were on time in their appearances. Consistent with other reports from elsewhere during the week, the two (2) Lazuli Bunting were expected. Lingering around still were three (3) White-crowned Sparrow (Z.l.gambelii, although I would have expected Z.l.oriantha to be more likely). Right on time though was an always stunning Bullock's Oriole, near some houses on Indian Creek Road. J. Harry Krueger Boise http://bird-brio.blogspot.com www.IdahoBirds.net Subject: Trueblood-Strike LICS, Elmore and Owyhee County, 5-3 From: "J. Harry Krueger" <jhkrueger AT gmail.com> Date: Mon, 05 May 2008 21:54:00 -0000 This (Saturday, 3 May) was the 13th consecutive week that this LICS has been covered, each time following the exactly identical route and utilizing the same process of census taking. As usual, I began the day along Simco Road, Elmore County, just off of I-84, with the temperature at 49 degrees F. and cloudy skies. By mid-afternoon, it was about 70 degrees and mostly sunny, with partial cloud cover and a slight breeze. Some expected birds were missed today, lowering the possible species seen total again to under 100 (6 less than last week), with the total birds seen also down by approximately 650 individuals. Daily species seen, 92. Individual birds seen, 2656. Species seen since inception of LICS, 139. New species this week: Spotted Sandpiper, Elmore County; Least Sandpiper, Owyhee County; Long-billed Dowitcher, Elmore and Owyhee County; Red-necked Phalarope, Elmore County; Forster's Tern, Elmore and Owyhee County; Lewis's Woodpecker, Elmore and Owyhee County; Yellow Warbler, Owyhee County; Black-throated Gray Warbler, Owyhee County; Bullock's Oriole, Owyhee County. (There were no new species for either county that had been seen elsewhere previously on the LICS.) [As a departure from past summaries, that will hopefully be easier to follow, I will comment on my observations by taxonomic order, rather than by place.] Gadwall numbers (21) were about twice the previous high of 4/6. American Wigeon continues its downward trend, with only six (6) birds seen, compared to a high of one-hundred-twenty-two (122) on 4/6, while the Mallard total also bottomed at forty (40), compared to nine-hundred-ten (910) on 3/29. Only a pair of both Northern Pintail and Green-winged Teal was encountered. Two (2) Red-breasted Merganser remained at C.J. Strike Dam, while the three (3) Ruddy Duck at Trueblood's North Pond were very minimal compared to the raft of 102 birds at C.J. Strike last week. A lone (1) Common Loon remained of Black Sands Resort. For the first time, no Pied-billed Grebe were seen, while three (3) alternate plumaged Eared Grebe were at Bruneau Arm Narrows, and the one-hundred-fifteen (115) Western Grebe provided a LICS high count (previous high, 114 on 4/12… OK, maybe I missed a few on either day.) The one-hundred-fifty-eight (158) American White Pelican were a 64% increase over the previous high count. The ten (10) White-faced Ibis in a flooded field along Grandview Road, Elmore County, provided my second sighting in three weeks. Overall raptor numbers were down slightly from previous weeks, with Rough-legged Hawk apparently having finally departed and the Red-tailed Hawk total was reduced by about 1 ½ times. A few "new" shorebirds made their spring debut this week, but also some present for the last couple of weeks were absent (Greater and Lesser Yellowlegs). In a reversal of abundance, Black-necked Stilt were difficult to find (3), while American Avocet increased to a new high (29). The season's first Spotted Sandpiper was seen from the Elmore County side of C.J. Strike Dam. Two (2) Least Sandpiper worked the limited mud at the mouth of the Bruneau River, Jacks Creek, Owyhee County, joined by two (2) Dunlin (the second appearance of this uncommon inland spring migrant here this year). Eight (8) Long-billed Dowitcher at Ted Trueblood WMA, Elmore County, and another twenty-nine (29) at Jacks Creek apparently were the first of the spring for both county lists. A mixed group of ten (10) Red-necked Phalarope at Trueblood WMA and two (2) Wilson's Phalarope were in the North Pond at Trueblood WMA. Franklin's Gull numbers have built up to a high of two-hundred-seventy-seven (277), while totals of both Ring-billed Gull (32) and California Gull (15) were down substantially. As was the case last week, the only Bonaparte's Gull (2 first cycle birds) were seen on the North Pond, Trueblood WMA. Herring Gull continues with two (2) 2nd cycle birds at Jacks Creek. Quite remarkable were the one-hundred-seventeen (117) Caspian Tern, seventy-six (76) of which were together at Ted Trueblood WMA, Elmore County. Forster's Tern (4) put in their first spring appearance in both Elmore and Owyhee County. Of the three (3) Eurasian Collared-Dove seen, the one (1) in the Simplot housing area along Grandview Road was the first there. Mourning Dove registered a quite dramatic increase (76) compared to the previous high of only seven (7)… Obviously "new" birds have moved into the area from elsewhere. The seven (7) Lewis's Woodpecker found were totally unexpected in this area with few patches of large trees. As a diurnal migrant whose movements are not well documented, it is interesting that it comments have been made on this board about other "unexpected" appearances during the past week (my yard, Nampa, Horseshoe Bend). The number of Western Kingbird has predictably risen to twenty (20) from last week's two (2), American Robin registered a low tally of only twenty-five (25) birds. The first Yellow Warbler of the season was heard along River Road, east of Grand View, Owyhee County, while a lone Black-throated Gray Warbler associated with Yellow-rumped Warbler at Jacks Creek was also a FOY (first-of-year) in a county where it is expected to occur. Only twelve (12) White-crowned Sparrow were still sighted, more than half of which were of the Gambel's race. A FOY Bullock's Oriole at Jacks Creek was on time for this species' arrival. J. Harry Krueger Boise http://bird-brio.blogspot.com www.IdahoBirds.net Subject: Bullock's Oriole & Lark Sparrow in yard this morning From: Jon Barnett <jrb4jc AT hotmail.com> Date: Mon, 5 May 2008 10:46:41 -0600 My children called to me early this morning -- there was a gorgeous male Northern Oriole in our close tree. A moment later, they realized there was a small light-colored bird feeding on the ground nearby, and a cat crouched, ready to pounce on it. I had time to grab the binoculars and identify it as a (very unafraid) Lark Sparrow, while my daughter ran outside to interrupt the cat's plans... successfully I might add. Ah, what a beautiful time of the year! Our yearly resident Say's Phoebes & Western Kingbirds showed up a few days ago as well. Good birding...Jon Barnett _________________________________________________________________ Get Free (PRODUCT) RED™ Emoticons, Winks and Display Pics. http://joinred.spaces.live.com?ocid=TXT_HMTG_prodredemoticons_052008 Subject: Valley County birds From: "Philip" <pgkline_uk AT yahoo.com> Date: Mon, 05 May 2008 16:14:39 -0000 I am an Arizona birder who visited for a couple of days last week. Thanks to everyone who responded to my earlier request for information; it is much appreciated. I drove north from Boise and spent some time in the Cascade/McCall area on the 29th and went looking for grouse in the Midvale area on the 30th. I sent my Midvale sightings to the Washington County compiler, but could not find a compiler for Valley County. Anyway, in case anyone on the listserve is keeping a tally, I saw the following Valley County birds on April 29th: Park by the Payette River at the south end of Cascade: Location: Payette River Park - Cascade Observation date: 4/29/08 Number of species: 24 Canada Goose 2 Gadwall 1 Ring-necked Duck 2 Lesser Scaup 4 Barrow's Goldeneye 5 Common Merganser 2 Ruddy Duck 1 Horned Grebe 5 Red-necked Grebe 1 Western Grebe 6 Great Blue Heron 1 Turkey Vulture 1 Osprey 1 Bald Eagle 1 Black-billed Magpie 2 American Crow 6 Common Raven 1 Tree Swallow 40 Northern Rough-winged Swallow 10 Cliff Swallow 5 American Robin 2 European Starling 1 Song Sparrow 1 White-crowned Sparrow 2 Dock at edge of Cascade Lake in Cascade: Lark sparrow 2 Payette River at north end of Cascade: Common loon 5 Loomis Lane area on east side of Cascade Lake: Tundra swan 2 American kestrel Killdeer Hairy woodpecker Northern flicker Vesper sparrow Dark-eyed junco Red-winged blackbird Brewer's blackbird Rte 55 south of McCall: Common goldeneye 1 Payette Lake at west end of McCall: Cinnamon teal 2 Ponderosa State Park: Red-breasted nuthatch Bear Basin area: Pileated woodpecker 2 Brundage Mountain Road: Wild turkey 1 Golden-crowned kinglet Good birding, Philip Kline Tucson, AZ Subject: I love May! - Star & Joplin (ADA Co.) From: "Robert Mortensen" <robert.mortensen AT avimor.com> Date: Mon, 05 May 2008 13:53:55 -0000 Over the last couple of weeks I have been monitoring the flooded fields at the intersection of Star and Joplin Rd. The cattle are kept on those pastures for a couple of months in the winter until the calves are birthed then they are moved off and the fields are flooded making a rich bounty for birds. Here's what I have seen in the last couple weeks, with most of these being seen in the last two days: Canada Goose Wood Duck Mallard Cinnamon Teal Ring-necked Pheasants California Quail Double-crested Cormorant Great Blue Heron White-faced Ibis (THIS MORNING!) Osprey Northern Harrier Swainson's Hawk Red-tailed Hawk American Kestrel Killdeer Black-necked Stilt (about 3 dozen this morning) American Avocet (two to six for the last week) Greater Yellow Legs (one Saturday) Lesser Yellow Legs (two to six since Saturday) Marbled Godwit (a week or so ago, reported previously) Long-billed Dowitcher (yesterday afternoon) Wilson's Snipe Wilson's Phalarope (a pair this morning) Franklin's Gull (Saturday afternoon) Ring-billed Gull Rock Pigeon Mourning Dove Morthern Flicker Western Kingbird Black-billed Magpie American Crow Common Raven Barn Swallow American Robin European Starling Song Sparrow White-crowned Sparrow Red-winged Blackbird Yellow-headed Blackbird Brewer's Blackbird House Finch House Sparrow Subject: Spring Migrants From: "LCARRIGAN_55" <lcarrigan_55 AT yahoo.com> Date: Sun, 04 May 2008 23:09:12 -0000 Today, have had Ruby-crowned Kinglets, Brown Creeper, White-crowned Sparrows and Audubon's Warblers coming through since mid-morning. Also, Red-tailed Hawks, Swainson's Hawks, Bald Eagle, Am. Kestrel and Sharp-shinned Hawk have passed by overhead. Yesterday, spotted an Osprey perched on a large utility pole out in the sagebrush by the INL Site at the turnoff to Howe. Guess even a migrating Osprey has to make a rest stop every so often. Brian Carrigan Blackfoot Subject: Eurasian Collared Doves From: "Joyce Ayers" <Joyceayers AT earthlink.net> Date: Sun, 4 May 2008 13:21:47 -0600 The mistake was mine. I forgot how many "B" counties Idaho has and that one of them is Bonner, so I got my favorite exercise and assumed the Bon was for Bonneville. A lesson I shouldn't make again, I hope. Thank you all for you help and patience. I do learn so much from your posts. Joyce Subject: Reply -Eurasian Collared Doves , Harris's Sparrow From: "intechlw" <tntbutters AT cableone.net> Date: Sun, 04 May 2008 16:19:55 -0000 Joyce if Eurasian Collared Doves are not on the list last year or this year it is probalby an oversite on my part or Jake Briggs. He is taking care of the list and both Jake and I see them in our neighborhood all the time, both last year and this year, however don't let that discourage you from posting any bird you have a question on. The Eurasian-collared Doves are very common now in Eastern Idaho but we sometimes look over the obvious just as I did for many years living in Idaho Falls thinking that the only birds in the area were House Sparrows, Robins, Magpies, and Starlings. I can't remember the exact number of Eurasian Collared Doves we had on the Christmas Bird Count but it was somewhere between 50-75 birds which is a fair number for a species that was not around here ten years ago. I have found flocks around Idaho Falls with at least 25 birds in them the past two years. Thanks for pointing out the oversite again and thanks in a big way for sharing the Long-tail Duck with the rest of us on IBLE. I have only looked extensively for this duck in Eastern Idaho for the past five years with no success, so for you to find one in practically my own backyard was a real treat. Thanks again. I am also glad that Thomas Watkins could find the Harris's Sparrow as I have found it three times now and everyone else that I have talked to that has walked the shelterbelt has missed it. It is always nice to have someone else confirm your sighting. I also saw the Cattle Egret Friday in the same place Thomas saw it and it was within 100' of where I found and posted it last week. It is not very often you get to see a Breeding Plumage Cattle Egret so close. Steve Butterworth Idaho Falls Subject: Hummers From: moorews AT aol.com Date: Sun, 4 May 2008 09:38:33 EDT Calliope at the feeder this morning just as the temperature broke freezing. Bill Moore Inkom **************Wondering what's for Dinner Tonight? Get new twists on family favorites at AOL Food. (http://food.aol.com/dinner-tonight?NCID=aolfod00030000000001)