[cobirds] Cherry Creek State Park - Common Poorwill
While birding along the leaf-strewn, shoreline path between the Prairie Loop and the Mountain Loop at CCSP, I flushed a Common Poorwill at about 0945 today. Otherwise, I found few migrants - just a dozen widely scattered Yellow-rumped Warblers and the previously seen Great-tailed Grackle, which was trying to attract attention from the top of a tree at the new wetlands. Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en
[cobirds] RFI: Blackpoll Warbler male: female ratio
This is a serious question, for a change. Does anyone know why we see so many more male Blackpoll Warblers each spring than females? Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en
[cobirds] Connecticut Warbler Great Crested Flycatcher at Chico Basin Ranch
The Conn Warbler was still there at about 1430 today. At about 1600 a Great Crested Flycatcher was seen at the banding station. Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobi...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en.
[cobirds] Annals of Interaction: Cows One, Cattle Egret Zero
We've all seen placid Cattle Egrets grazing bucolically among a herd of content cows. Look how well they get along! At least up until now. A bit of species interaction was observed during the CFO Convention Sunday chase trip with John Drummond as leader. Our hardy group of a dozen braced into the wind and scanned a meadow south of Loveland for Bobolinks. We spotted and tracked a lone Cattle Egret flying in from the west, then landing in a cow pasture near some (what else?) cows. A curious bovine ambled over to check out the interloper, then another cow joined it. They put their heads down and charged, displacing the stubby egret a few yards. Then several more cows joined the game of make it fly and chased it all over the place. When the Cattle Egret landed again, the whole herd charged, determined to make that thing fly away for good, which it did. It was like a staged TV commercial for The Power of Cattle or Merrill Lynch's Thundering Herd. We hooted with laughter at the sight and were reminded of Larry Modesitt's observations of a Mountain Plover leading a cow away from its short-grass prairie nest site at last year's conclave. Only this time it was more of a comic opera, and the cows won the battle. Be on the look-out for the sequel, Revenge of Bubulcus ibis. Joe Roller PS For extra credit, look up the Greek origin of bucolic. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobi...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en.
[cobirds] Clark's Grebe in Summit County
The Clark's Grebe was on North Pond, which is about two miles north of the Silverthorne exit of I-70 along Highway 9, towards Kremmling. It was the only bird on this pond, best viewed from the pocket park on the north end of North Pond. There were some Gadwall 1/2 mile farther north at the Blue River waste water treatment plant and some Mallard looking things that could have resulted from flawed genetic experiment. Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobi...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en.
[cobirds] Crow Valley excellent, for resident birds (only)
I and others spent a couple of hours at Crow Valley campground and Norma's Grove (Weld) very early this morning. None of the rare migrants seen yesterday were found today. In fact the only migrant birds were one Swainson's Thrush and one distant Empid. Residents resided. I would be delighted if other observers today or tomorrow refound the Prairie Warbler, BB Cuckoo or Wood Thrush. Also with a significant change in the weather Friday and Saturday, who knows what will turn up at a migrant trap? Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobi...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en.
[cobirds] Acorn Woodpecker still there Thursday morning
I was at the previously described residence in Colorado Springs at 0640 today and enjoyed chatting with several other birders, while we waited in eager anticipation of the arrival of the female Acorn Woodpecker. She was heard calling whacka, whacka, whacka from a phone pole a couple of houses up the hill at about 0750. We got to see the clown face in full sun and it was great! A pair of Hairy Woodpeckers landed on the pole below the Acorn and made their way up to the top where she perched. Within about 5 minutes she dominated them and drove them away. She then flew into the trees around the feeders where she had originally been seen. (Thanks to the observant homeowners for spotting AND reporting this fun bird). In the category of supplemental information, the Acorn Woodpecker was called the California Woodpecker in the old days (nineteen-thirties and forties, at least) and was the inspiration for the calls of Woody Woodpecker of cartoon fame. The Pileated Woodpecker inspired the shape for Woody, so Walter Lance used artistic license in combining aspects of the two species. AM seems to be the most reliable time to spot the bird and the homeowners told me that a little over half of the birders who tried for it actually saw it, so there is no guarantee. Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobi...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en.
[cobirds] Long-tailed Jaeger still at Cherry Creek Res
John Drummond and I searched all of Cherry Creek Reservoir for 90 minutes before he spotted the Long-tailed Jaeger again about 2:30 PM today, 9/7. It was near the giant tower structure of the dam, ie, northeast corner. It's seeming absence for hours at a time may be due to sojourns at nearby Quincy Reservoir. Thanks to GLenn Walbek for finding this great bird yesterday. It is a favorite of mine, as is Little Gull for that matter! Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobi...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en.
[cobirds] Prewitt Reservoir today; Mississippi Kite
Norm Erthal, Glenn Walbek, Loch Kirkpatrick and I found a few skeeters and about a half ton of Wilson's Warblers at the inlet canal at Prewitt. In addition to that thousand pounds were a Black-throated Gray Warbler, Black-and-white Warbler, Townsend's, and the highlight bird, a juvenile Mississippi Kite that first flew over the tree-tops, then cooperated by perching at the top of a snag for prolonged study and photos. The Kite, unusual in Washco, was a county bird for each of us, as was the BTGW. At Prewitt Reservoir itself were 3 Common Terns, a Great Egret and a lone Sanderling, but virually no other shorebirds. Akron Golf Course pond and Last Chance oasis were devoid of interest. Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobi...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en.
[cobirds] Mountain Chickadees on the plains
I saw two Mountain Chickadees at Cherry Creek State Park five days ago, then two in the hamlet of Cope, out on the eastern plains. A single Mountain Chickadee is coming to our suet feeder in Central Denver. These birds had a big invasion a couple of years ago, and maybe the winter of 2010-11 will feature, as they say at the Forum, Poecile gambeli redux. Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobi...@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en.
[cobirds] Cattle Egret at Cherry Creek SP, Arapahoe
Several birders were out looking for the Tri-colored Heron reported yesterday from Cottonwood Creek, Cherry Creek SP. Alas, it was not to be found, but unusual for Arapahoe County was a Cattle Egret in the same area. It was an interesting individual, with grayish tones here and there on the body, and I gathered that it was an immature bird. Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en.
[cobirds] Re: [Colorado Field Ornithologists] My birding books are packed up at the moment. How...
Wild Turkey is on the Hindsdale County list, but Bob and Bob do not show it occurring in the county as of 1991, so I deduce that it must be rare. Most of them live below 8,000 feet in Colorado. I think that if they are in Hinsdale, they would be along the Piedra River, which is the low point of that county at 7,592 feet. I have NO personal experience and have only been to that county once, but the above info is what I can glean from my references, which are not packed away. Joe Roller, Denver On Wed, May 2, 2012 at 8:15 PM, Emily Thurston notification+kr4mryyr4...@facebookmail.com wrote: ** Emily Thurston posted in Colorado Field Ornithologistshttp://www.facebook.com/n/?groups%2F129995222037%2F10150697261982038%2Fmid=60be777G5af3bf91e78aG7691a5G96bcode=rq4btXEQn_m=jroller9%40gmail.com [image: My birding books are packed up at the moment]http://www.facebook.com/n/?profile.phpid=1114975251mid=60be777G5af3bf91e78aG7691a5G96bcode=rq4btXEQn_m=jroller9%40gmail.com Emily Thurstonhttp://www.facebook.com/n/?profile.phpid=1114975251mid=60be777G5af3bf91e78aG7691a5G96bcode=rq4btXEQn_m=jroller9%40gmail.com 8:15pm May 2 My birding books are packed up at the moment. How common is it for wild turkeys to live at 9000 feet? Hinsdale County, Colorado. ** View Post on Facebookhttp://www.facebook.com/n/?groups%2F129995222037%2F10150697261982038%2Fmid=60be777G5af3bf91e78aG7691a5G96bcode=rq4btXEQn_m=jroller9%40gmail.com· Edit Email Settingshttp://www.facebook.com/n/?groups%2F129995222037%2Fview=notificationsmid=60be777G5af3bf91e78aG7691a5G96bcode=rq4btXEQn_m=jroller9%40gmail.com· Reply to this email to add a comment. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en.
[cobirds] SCOTT'S ORIOLE at Santa Clara Creek site, Huerfano County, today!
John Drummond phoned to tell me that he stopped to bird the Santa Clara Creek site, just west of exit 42, off I-25. This spot is well described in previous posts about the pair of Hepatic Tanagers found there by Tom Wilberding last week and seen my many CFO conventioneers. John heard and saw a singing, male SCOTTS ORIOLE, as well as a singing HEPATIC TANAGER at 7:40 AM today, May 21st. The oriole would be a FIRST HUERFANO COUNTY record, as it is not noted on the Huerfano County checklist at the CFO County Birding Website. Way to go, John! Perhaps others will stop here as they journey home from the successful CFO convention. Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en.
[cobirds] Good article about Hugh and Urling Kingery and birding in The Denver Post!
For those of you who might have missed it, here is the link to a well-written (but too brief) article about Colorado's estimable birders, Urling and Hugh Kingery. http://www.denverpost.com/athome/ci_20657820/colorado-pairs-home-near-franktown-is-bird-watching Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en.
[cobirds] Last Chance rest stop, Washington County
I was able to spend an hour and a half at Last Chance this morning, where there was more to look at than there had been during the brisk winds two days ago. Along with the usual suspects were: Red-eyed Vireo (1) Warbling Vireo (2) report from another birder of Yellow-throated Vireo, which I did not see Yellow Warbler (pair) MAGNOLIA WARBLER (female) Yellow-rumped Warbler (1 female) MacGillivray's Warbler (1 male) Wilson's Warbler (3) Common Yellowthroat (pair) Swainson's Thrush (6) Hermit Thrush (1) American Robin on nest Rose-breasted Grosbeak (male) Willow/Alder type Flycatcher (silent) Variety of species seems to change daily, if not during each hour! Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en.
[cobirds] More on the Yellow-throated - Plumbeous Vireo pair at Chatfield S.P. (Jefferson County)
Thanks, Norm, for posting the information. Here are some details. A group of about ten birders on a combined Wild Birds Unlimited/Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory field trip this morning studied the breeding birds at Chatfield S.P. The expected species (House Wren, Least Flycatcher, Yellow Warbler, YB Chat, etc, etc) were in full voice, and we found several nests. At about 11 AM while the group heard and saw a singing male Plumbeous Vireo near a nest and sitting on the nest, two of the group, Becky Campbell and Nathan McAdam, spotted a different vireo high in the trees right above the path. They saw field marks compatible with Yellow-throated Vireo, so we all started searching the treetops. After initial skepticism, everyone had good looks at a Yellow-throated Vireo. It was interacting as a pair with the Plumbeous Vireo, coming to the nest site without being chased away. Larry Modesitt saw it right at the nest, and as I recall, saw it sitting *on* the nest at one point. Scott Menough, I and the others saw the birds well. The Yellow-throated Vireo was moving about sluggishly high in the tall cottonwood trees, offering multiple adequate views. It had the sturdy vireo habitus, a heavy vireo type bill, and we saw a bright yellow throat and breast, fading to white on the belly and vent. It had prominent yellow spectacles, olive back, darkish wings with two white wing bars and a dark tail. These features separated it from other vireos, and although it was superficially similar to a Pine Warbler, that warbler has far less distinctive spectacles, a thinner bill and is virtually unknown during our spring migration. As you may recall, Becky Campbell showed a Pine Warbler to 58 birders in her back yard last December, and was recognized at the recent CFO Convention with the coveted Homeowner's Appreciation Award. Becky knows Pine Warblers, and this was not a Pine Warbler. On my way home I called Doug Kibbe, who did a little research on-line at Birds of North America. There he found no previous records of Yellow-throated Vireo pairing up or nesting with Plumbeous Vireo. The two species have no overlap in their usual breeding ranges, as they are separated by parts of the Great Plains. Even in the Northeast, where both Blue-headed and Yellow-throated Vireos breed in the same states, there was only one record of YT Vireo pairing with Blue-headed. (from North Carolina, BNA) CAUTION: This is a unique situation, and the pair could produce viable hybrid young. What might they look like? The nest will be monitored closely, and up-dates will be posted on-line at RMBO.org. I urge birders strongly to AVOID PLAYING RECORDINGS of either vireo's song or calls. You don't need to do that and the birds are conspicuous. This paved path is open to the public, so birders on it are far outnumbered by other visitors. Vehicles are on this trail during improvements of the trail farther south. Adequate commotion, although it is a pretty serene spot most of the time. The birds chose to nest right over the trail. So the *extra* impact by birders, compared to other human activities will be low. Joe Roller, Denver RMBO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en.
[cobirds] Vireos at Chatfield seen sitting down on the job!
Each day since the unusual pairing of a female Yellow-throated Vireo with its mate, a male Plumbeous Vireo, was discovered on May 31, each parent has been seen sitting patiently on their cup-like nest, high in a cottonwood tree. Observers at the Chatfield State Park site have avoided terminal neck-cramping by lying on the ground, staring up at the nest high above them. The chore of (presumed) incubation of vireo eggs has been shared by the closely-related birds, while the other parent forages for food nearby. Male Plumbeous Vireos are known to develop a partial brood patch, and to take turns warming the tiny eggs - usually 3 to 5 in number. (*Colorado Breeding* *Bird Atlas I;* High Kingery, editor). Photos show that the nest has been perfected with cotton-wood tree cotton, and RMBO volunteers eagerly await the next step in nesting cycle - carrying food to hatched youngsters. Plumbeous Vireo eggs require 14 days of incubation, and the young fledge about 14 days after hatching. If you want to help monitor the nest of this rare pairing of two species of vireos, please contact me at: jroll...@gmail.com Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en.
[cobirds] Re: RMBO trip to N Park, Grand and Jackson Co.
Cobird readers and grouse-o-philes, As an addendum to Kay's nice note and photo exhibit, I want to draw attention to the photos she took of the flock of Greater Sage-Grouse we stumbled across one morning along County Road 34. This is south of Walden and described well in the CFO county birding website, under Jackson County, #3 Hebron Waterfowl Area. Seeing these 17 grouse loafing on the road for about 15 minutes and then taking flight like a task force of heavy bombers was quite a thrill! Each weighs about 4-5 pounds! At first we thought that this might be a family group, but they were all the same sex and age and too big for young of the year (on June 16). So I next thought that they must be post-breeding males, a sort of guys hanging out at the pool hall kind of thing. I'd like others opinions or information. Field guides describe males as having black throats and bibs, quite a contrast to these birds white throats. If these are males, they must change quite a bit as their androgens wane in early summer. I have only see Greater Sage-Grouse on spring leks, at a greater distance, DARK in the morning, and that was in the previous century, etc, so this was great fun! Come to think of it, the only things that *male* sage grouse do from June on is hang out, try not to be eaten and stay alive long enough to dance half-heartedly in the fall, then make it through the tough winters and dance for reals at the lek and maybe copulate if they are lucky. Then there is a lot more down time. (One of my favorite bird words, is lek, which I was told means playground in some Scandinavian language). Joe Roller, Denver On Thu, Jun 21, 2012 at 4:26 PM, Kayleen A Niyo k...@kayniyo.com wrote: A few of us went up to N Park Friday to help a bit with the RMBO ColonyWatch counting and enjoyed a visit with a group to a Legacy Land Trust ranch in Jackson Co. Then Mary Burger and I went into RMNP on the west side Sun and encountered 50 mph wind and 90s. So, we got in limited birding on Sun and Mon and headed home to 100 degree Denver! ** ** Enjoyed photographing a pair of Red-napped Sapsuckers taking food into a nest hole along Hwy 125 in Grand Co. and Mountain Chickadees doing the same in the aspen right next to the RNSA tree! ** ** A few photos at http://www.kayniyo.com/trip_NPark_June_12.htm ** ** Kay Kayleen A. Niyo, Ph.D. Niyo Scientific Communications Kay Niyo Photography k...@kayniyo.com www.KayNiyo.com __ 5651 Garnet Street Golden, CO 80403 Phone: (303) 679-6646 Fax: (866) 849-8013 ** ** -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en.
[cobirds] Colorado Rare Bird Alert for Tuesday, June 26 at 0810
Compiler: Joe Roller Date: June 26, 2012 email:rba at cfobirds.org phone: 303- 303-659-8750204-0828 This is the Colorado Rare Bird Alert for Tuesday, June 26, 2012, sponsored by Denver Field Ornithologists and the Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory. If you are phoning in a message, you can skip the recording by pressing the star Key (*) on your phone at any time. Please leave your name, phone number, detailed directions, including county and dates for each sighting. It would be helpful if you would spell your last name. Highlight species include: (*denotes that there is new information on this species in this report) Green Heron (Mesa) ACORN WOODPECKER (*Pueblo) Purple Martin (Mesa) Grace's Warbler (Pueblo) Hooded Warbler (Pueblo, Boulder) Fox Sparrow (Mesa) Please note, detailed directions to most of the following locations can be found on the Colorado County Birding Website: http://www.coloradocountybirding.com/index.phphttp://www.coloradocountybrding.com/index.php Boulder County: --A male Hooded Warbler was reported by Nunes about 100 yards south of the Bobolink Trail parking lot on June 8th. The bird has since been relocated by several birders near a picnic table south of the Bobolink trail parking lot as recently as June 18. Floyd reports that the same bird (most likely the same bird) was heard at the Centennial Trail, upstream from the bridge at the south entrance on June 16. --A Hooded Warbler was reported by Kwong on June 9th by the Gregory Canyon Parking Lot. Floyd reported the bird was still singing on on June 17. --Fremont County --Two Great Crested Flycatchers were reported by MacKerrow on the river side of County Road 119 on June 20. Mesa County: --A Green Heron was reported by Arnold on the edge of the first pond at Connected Lakes State Park on June 22. --Small flocks of Purple Martins and Fox Sparrows were reported by Arnold Along FR 266 on June 17. Pueblo County: --2 ACORN WOODPECKER were reported by Van Manen in Pueblo Mountain Park just south of Beaulah on June 16. The birds were in a large snag next to the little amphitheater between the pavilion and the lodge. On June 23 Percival saw the Acorn Woodpeckers ...at the usual tree in Pueblo Mountain Park, at the parking lot just west of the Horseshore Lodge. Also, there was a singing male Hooded Warbler (first found by Van Truan), and one or two singing male Grace's Warblers. These warblers were not far up the road from the old basketball court (south end of the Park). The Hooded Warbler was mostly along the creek and the Grace's Warblers were singing in the tall ponderosa pine trees. Denver Field Ornithologists Field Trip for Saturday, June 30 Chicago Creek Trip Leader: Bob Shade 303-975-2476. Cell: 720-256-4376. Primary target species: Fox Sparrow (Slate-colored subspecies) in willow carr at 11,000 feet. One of the few nearby sites to see this species on the breeding grounds. Directions: Meet at 0730 at Fillius Park. Go west on I-70 and get off at Exit 252 (Evergreen Exit) and follow the Evergreen Parkway/CO 74 in a westerly direction 2.5 miles to the Bergen Parkway intersection. Turn right and immediately find the Fillius Park parking lot where we will meet and arrange car-pooling for the drive toward Mt Evans. *From the Chicago Creek campground it is a 3.6 mile (one way) moderately strenuous hike uphill to timberline*. Please bring lunch and water, wear sturdy hiking shoes and clothing for sudden weather changes and high elevations. Please call Bob if you plan to go. If there is a DFO Field Trip on Sunday, July 1,please let me know, so I can post it. No such trip was listed at the DFO website. Thanks. Joe Roller, Denver 303 204-0828 -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en.
Re: [cobirds] Last Chance Fire
I am heading out to Last Chance shortly and will send a note to Cobirds when I get back. I heard that the roads have reopened. Based on news reports, I think the motel in Last Chance has been very destroyed, and it would be very unlikely that the oasis escaped. The fire started along Highway 71, four miles south of Last Chance, and roared north through there, crossing Hway 36 and was not 100% contained until it had run 6 or 8 miles north of 36, along Hway 71. The fire was said to have been ignited by sparks from a tire blow-out on a vehicle traveling south of Last Chance on Hway 71. Joe Roller, Denver On Tue, Jun 26, 2012 at 11:30 AM, Margaret Smith margaretalicesm...@gmail.com wrote: Last Chance in Washington County had a 45,000 acre grass fire that destroyed 11 buildings. Has anyone been to Last Chance since the Fire? How did the oasis fare? -Margaret Smith, Boulder, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en.
[cobirds] Last Chance migrant trap totally devastated. So sad
I drove out there today, and my worst fears were realized. It was not a heart-breaking sight, but more like a punch to the gut. It was like turning the corner expecting to run into a vivacious friend, but seeing a skeleton instead. When a corpse is found, someone covers it with a sheet or blanket. But there was no one to cover Last Chance from my view. What was burned, what was not: The short-grass prairie is black in every direction. The bridge on Hway 36 a mile west of Last Chance was passable, and road crews were repairing some minor damage.Trees burned partly and I suspect that the owls that breed there will be able to return next year. Northeast quadrant of Hways 71 and 36. Motel, Dairy King and the houses and juniper stand north of that appeared untouched. Southeast quadrant: Skeletal remains of the old railroad cars are smoldering. All else burned down. Northwest quadrant: The church and other buildings there appeared untouched. The riparian area and prairie north of the bridge over Hway 36 are totally burned up. Southwest quadrant. Although the greenery,trees around the rest area and porta potties were fine, I am sorry to report that all is black west of the chain link fence behind the potties - burned up burned down. The larger elm trunks were partly charred, with some green leaves at their tops. May survive, may not. I am not an expert assessor. But that was a mere token of unburned vegetation, as EVERYTHING except the green scum on the tiny water hole was gone, burned to the ground. The land forms of our favorite swales and draws were laid bare. The tiny drainage (valley) that comes in from the east, crossing under 71, is OK. My biggest gut ache is that with the least rainfall, tons of black ash and soil will FILL UP the water hole. I just can't imagine what this will be like, unless there are funds to dig it out with bulldozers ( and put it where?). Yes, the grass and shrubs will return, but without a drop of surface water, I know not what the birds will do. It was pathetic seeing all of the thirsty resident birds coming to the water's edge. The pair of Brown Thrashers would come in for a sip, then fly a few yards up along the valley to the south, as if they were going to hide, like usual. But there was nothing to hide in. Western Kingbirds, Robins, all came in for furtive drinks. I am feeling too low to write anything about how it will be interesting to see how things improve from here, etc. Joe Roller, in Denver and in the dumps -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en.
[cobirds] Colorado Rare Bird Alert, Wednesday, June 27th at 0930
Compiler: Joe Roller Date: June 27, 2012 email:rba at cfobirds.org phone: 303-204-0828 This is the Colorado Rare Bird Alert for Wednesday, June 27, 2012, sponsored by Denver Field Ornithologists and the Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory. If you are phoning in a message, you can skip the recording by pressing the star Key (*) on your phone at any time. Please leave your name, phone number, detailed directions, including county and dates for each sighting. It would be helpful if you would spell your last name. Highlight species include: (*denotes that there is new information on this species in this report) TRI-COLORED HERON (*Jefferson) Green Heron (Mesa) ACORN WOODPECKER (*Pueblo) Purple Martin (Mesa) Grace's Warbler (Pueblo) Hooded Warbler (Pueblo) Fox Sparrow (Mesa) Please note, detailed directions to most of the following locations can be found on the Colorado County Birding Website: http://www.coloradocountybirding.com/index.phphttp://www.coloradocountybrding.com/index.php --Fremont County --Two Great Crested Flycatchers were reported by MacKerrow on the river side of County Road 119 on June 20. at the wildlife preserve area of Crown Hill Regional Park. --Jefferson County --Peter Plage reports a TRI-COLORED HERON, (which would be a FIRST COUNTY RECORD for Jefferson County) at the wildlife preserve area of Crown Hill Regional Park, seen mid-day. The wildlife preserve is at the corner of Kipiing and West 32nd in Wheat Ridge, and the closest parking is in the Wheat Ridge High School lot. The heron could not be seen at about 5:30 PM on the 26th, but may have been skulking in the abundant cattails there. Additional positive or negative news about this bird would be appreciated. Mesa County: --A Green Heron was reported by Arnold on the edge of the first pond at Connected Lakes State Park on June 22. --Small flocks of Purple Martins and Fox Sparrows were reported by Arnold Along FR 266 on June 17. Pueblo County: --2 ACORN WOODPECKER were reported by Van Manen in Pueblo Mountain Park just south of Beaulah on June 16. The birds were in a large snag next to the little amphitheater between the pavilion and the lodge. On June 23 Percival saw the Acorn Woodpeckers ...at the usual tree in Pueblo Mountain Park, at the parking lot just west of the Horseshore Lodge. Also, there was a singing male Hooded Warbler (first found by Van Truan), and one or two singing male Grace's Warblers. These warblers were not far up the road from the old basketball court (south end of the Park). The Hooded Warbler was mostly along the creek and the Grace's Warblers were singing in the tall ponderosa pine trees. Denver Field Ornithologists Field Trip for Saturday, June 30 Chicago Creek Trip Leader: Bob Shade 303-975-2476. Cell: 720-256-4376. Primary target species: Fox Sparrow (Slate-colored subspecies) in willow carr at 11,000 feet. One of the few nearby sites to see this species on the breeding grounds. Directions: Meet at 0730 at Fillius Park. Go west on I-70 and get off at Exit 252 (Evergreen Exit) and follow the Evergreen Parkway/CO 74 in a westerly direction 2.5 miles to the Bergen Parkway intersection. Turn right and immediately find the Fillius Park parking lot where we will meet and arrange car-pooling for the drive toward Mt Evans. *From the Chicago Creek campground it is a 3.6 mile (one way) moderately strenuous hike uphill to timberline*. Please bring lunch and water, wear sturdy hiking shoes and clothing for sudden weather changes and high elevations. Please call Bob if you plan to go. Joe Roller, Denver 303 204-0828 -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en.
[cobirds] NO sighting of Tri-colored Heron in Wheat RIdge this morning
Dick Schottler called me at 10:10 to tell me that he searched the wildlife area at Crown Hill Park in Wheat Ridge for an hour this morning. The TC Heron is not there, but the Snowy Egret and Black-crowned Night-Heron continued. Who can be the first to find it later today or along the Wheat Ridge Greenbelt or other spots in the Clear Creek area? Joe Roller -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en.
[cobirds] Colorado Rare Bird Alert for Thursday, June 28
Compiler: Joe Roller Date: June 28, 2012 email:rba at cfobirds.org phone: 303-204-0828 This is the Colorado Rare Bird Alert for Thursday, June 28, 2012, sponsored by Denver Field Ornithologists and the Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory. If you are phoning in a message, you can skip the recording by pressing the star Key (*) on your phone at any time. Please leave your name, phone number, detailed directions, including county and dates for each sighting. It would be helpful if you would spell your last name. Highlight species include: (*denotes that there is new information on this species in this report) TRI-COLORED HERON (Jefferson) Green Heron (Mesa) ACORN WOODPECKER (Pueblo) Scissor-tailed Flycatcher (*Costilla) Purple Martin (Mesa) Grace's Warbler (Pueblo) Hooded Warbler (Pueblo) Fox Sparrow (Mesa) Please note, detailed directions to most of the following locations can be found on the Colorado County Birding Website: http://www.coloradocountybirding.com/index.phphttp://www.coloradocountybrding.com/index.php --Costilla County -- A Scissor-tailed Flycatcher was found by Andrew Spencer on June 28 at Smith Reservoir. It was in the trees at the northern-most pull-out on the west side of the lake. --Fremont County --Two Great Crested Flycatchers were reported by MacKerrow on the river side of County Road 119 on June 20. at the wildlife preserve area of Crown Hill Regional Park. --Jefferson County --Peter Plage reports a TRI-COLORED HERON, (which would be a FIRST COUNTY RECORD for Jefferson County) at the wildlife preserve area of Crown Hill Regional Park, seen mid-day on June 26. The wildlife preserve is at the corner of Kipiing and West 32nd in Wheat Ridge, and the closest parking is in the Wheat Ridge High School lot. The heron has not been seen on subsequent searches on the 26th and 27th. Mesa County: --A Green Heron was reported by Arnold on the edge of the first pond at Connected Lakes State Park on June 22. --Small flocks of Purple Martins and Fox Sparrows were reported by Arnold Along FR 266 on June 17. Pueblo County: --2 ACORN WOODPECKER were reported by Van Manen in Pueblo Mountain Park just south of Beaulah on June 16. The birds were in a large snag next to the little amphitheater between the pavilion and the lodge. On June 23 Percival saw the Acorn Woodpeckers ...at the usual tree in Pueblo Mountain Park, at the parking lot just west of the Horseshore Lodge. Also, there was a singing male Hooded Warbler (first found by Van Truan), and one or two singing male Grace's Warblers. These warblers were not far up the road from the old basketball court (south end of the Park). The Hooded Warbler was mostly along the creek and the Grace's Warblers were singing in the tall ponderosa pine trees. Denver Field Ornithologists Field Trip for Saturday, June 30 Chicago Creek Trip Leader: Bob Shade 303-975-2476. Cell: 720-256-4376. Primary target species: Fox Sparrow (Slate-colored subspecies) in willow carr at 11,000 feet. One of the few nearby sites to see this species on the breeding grounds. Directions: Meet at 0730 at Fillius Park. Go west on I-70 and get off at Exit 252 (Evergreen Exit) and follow the Evergreen Parkway/CO 74 in a westerly direction 2.5 miles to the Bergen Parkway intersection. Turn right and immediately find the Fillius Park parking lot where we will meet and arrange car-pooling for the drive toward Mt Evans. *From the Chicago Creek campground it is a 3.6 mile (one way) moderately strenuous hike uphill to timberline*. Please bring lunch and water, wear sturdy hiking shoes and clothing for sudden weather changes and high elevations. Please call Bob if you plan to go. Joe Roller, Denver 303 204-0828 -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en.
[cobirds] Buteo behavior during Last Chance fire
I visited Last Chance again today and chatted with a nearbyrancher I got to know during my atlas work on his spread. He was one of the heroes of the Last Chance fire, having disc'd fire lines for hours. He saved his neighbors, then barely stopped the fire only a few yards from his own home. He told me that while inspecting the land right after the fire, he came upon a stock tank, full of water, some ashes, a few dead Starlings and the carcasses of two hawks. (Out there Swainson's Hawks predominate in the summer hawk department). I had not heard of this behavior before, but guessed that they had dived into the stock tank in desperation amid the flaming fields and the smoke. The thought that a stock tank ladder could have saved them crossed my mind, until I sadly realized that nothing would have helped. Oxygen was probably depleted from the air, among other hazards. Has anyone heard of this kind of avian response to a prairie fire? Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en-US.
[cobirds] NO ACORN WOODPECKER in Jeffco on July 10
Several of us watched and waited futlessly for the Jefferson County Acorn Woodpecker to make an appearance at the site along the South Platte River described on Cobirds. It was last seen on July 8th. Five other species of woodpecker were there, including: Hairy Downy Northern Flicker Red-naped Sapsucker Northern Three-toed Woodpecker as well as many other birds, including FOS Rufous and Calliope Hummers. Please note that there was a typo in the directions on Cobirds and the site is about 3.6 miles east (downstream) from the intersection of Foxton Road (hway 97) with the West Platte River Road (also known as hway 97). If you go there, please post positive OR negative results or send them to me. Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en-US.
[cobirds] Trying to track down an eBird report of a Mexican Jay near Elbert
Does anyone know how to reach Jack Hambene, who posted a list on eBird including Mexican Jay, found three days in a row, at the *Sacred Heart Retreat House*, near Elbert, Colorado? He described field marks that could be compatible with an immature Western Scrub Jay: Large bird. Blue tail with no crown, uniform grey breast and head. Seen in scrub oak three successive days. I could find no other notes or comments in the report, such as how similar birds were ruled out. This would be a new species for the state of Colorado! Wow! (or not so much Wow). I personally find it frustrating to notice this kind of report and not know how to track it down, other than visiting the location, which is not near my home. Joe Roller, venting spleen in Denver, Colorado -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Request for photos of the Last Chance birding habitat from BEFORE the recent fire
If anyone has taken photos that show the birding habitat at Last Chance (Washington County) from *before* the devastating fire, I would love to see them. If I use them for a meeting concerning rehab of the place, I would give full photographer's credit. My preference is to get Before photos that show the riparian area as a whole, but if there are photos that show only a bird and its immediate surroundings, that would be fine too. Thanks! We have lots of After photos already. I am in contact with the Woodlin Lions Club, which has maintained the Rest Area at Last Chance for decades, some local residents and ranchers, birding organizations, and other stake-holders interested in restoration, mitigation, etc. I will keep in contact with you birders who are interested in the future of Last Chance. If there is general interest for a summary every couple of months, I can post that on Cobirds. Thanks, Joe Roller -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Has anyone been out to Barr Lake? Info requested about the Royal Tern
Some friends of mine from way out of town and a fellow from France are considering searching Barr Lake for the Royal Tern. Has anyone been there lately? Any positive or negative news as to its Royal Presence would be appreciated. If I receive no reports either way, I will probably go out there again myself tomorrow and can coordinate with anyone else who might want to go. Thanks! Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Six alternate plumage Black-Bellied Plovers at Barr Lake (Adams)
Betsy Shaw phoned me to express her delight at seeing six handsome Black-bellied Plovers in breeding plumage at Barr Lake. To see or photograph these elegant creatures, walk south from the Nature Center along the Neidrach Trail and you will soon see where the shoreline was a few months ago. The lake has receded like my brother's hairline, and in the southeast corner of what is left of this mighty water body, there you might find the target birds. Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
Re: [cobirds] Thank you, Fawn Brook Inn, Boulder County
Thanks, Tom, for reminding us how generous Hermann and Mieke Groicher of the Fawn Brook Inn have been with their long-term commitment to feeding birds in Allenspark. Winter, Spring, Summer or Fall, one didn't even have to call. We just showed up at the Fawn Brook Inn year after year and found the feeders full of seed or sugar and the trees full of Rosy-FInches and Hummers. The Colorado Field Ornithologists did recognize their dedication by presenting them with a Homeowner's Appreciation Award in 2006. Over the years since the inaugural award in the year 2000, homeowners, landowners and various institutions have received such awards for their hospitality in welcoming birders. THANKS to the Groicers! It's been a good run. Joe Roller, Board, CFO On Mon, Aug 20, 2012 at 9:35 AM, Tom Wilberding Boulder CO twilberd...@comcast.net wrote: Hello birders, For 33 years Hermann and Mieke Groicher have fed winter rosy-finches with cubic yards of sunflower seed and summer hummingbirds with barrels of sugar water. Hermann and Mieke are birders. They own and manage the Fawn Brook Inn in Allenspark near Rocky Mountain National Park. Hermann is the chef and Mieke the hostess; they live above the restaurant. As you may have read in the *Daily Camera, *below, they are 77 years old and ready to retire. The Inn is for sale but still in operation. I had lunch there yesterday and counted 15 hummingbird feeders, all supplied with sugar water and surrounded by mobs of grateful hummers. I believe Hermann and Mieke deserve an award for increasing the number of rosy-finches, hummingbirds, and other birds in Boulder County. Many of us have made the trek to Allenspark over the years in both winter and summer to see what’s at their feeders. It’s been a free ride. To thank Hermann and Mieke, call them at (303) 747-2556. Or call for a reservation for a fine meal and thank them in person. To thank them with a donation for seed and sugar water, mail a check to Hermann Groicher, Fawn Brook Inn, P. O. Box 387, Allenspark, CO 80510. Here is an article about them: http://www.dailycamera.com/boulder-county-news/ci_20764805/owners-allensparks-fawn-brook-inn-moving-after-33 Here is their website: www.fawnbrookinn.com Three cheers for the Groichers! Tom Wilberding Boulder, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msg/cobirds/-/obEFhTYMx_kJ. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
Re: [cobirds] Manitou Lake Waterthrush ID help
Looks like a Northern Waterthrush, based on beige or off-white supercilium, throat spotting, lack of white underparts with buffy flank patch, smallish bill. Upon request, I have photos of a Louisiana Waterthrush from Central Park, New York City last April. The LOWA I photographed has a huge bill, very white supercilium, wider behind the eye and clean white underparts contrasting with a buffy flank patch. I recall that Cobirds does not permit photos to be attached. The friendly New York birders described the gait of the LOWA as a sashay, noticeably different from the bobbing motion of the Northern Waterthrush. You could put the LOWA photos on your website, Robb, for comparison. I do not have a functioning website right now. Thanks for trying to get an image of that Brewster's Warbler! Bob and Bob show records of that hybrid warbler from 4/30/80 and 5/21-22/87, both from Colorado Springs State Wildlife Area, El Paso. I vaguely recall seeing one in the 90's in CO. When will CO get the more rare Lawrence's Warbler, also a Golden-winged x Blue-winged Warbler hybrid? Probably never. Joe Roller, Denver On Wed, Aug 22, 2012 at 10:12 PM, Robb Hinds robbh5...@gmail.com wrote: I have posted a few pictures of the waterthrush that was first seen by Jeff Jones earlier today. We would like for people to provide their opinion on whether this is a Northern or Louisiana Waterthrush. The photos can be viewed on my pbase website. http://www.pbase.com/robbphoto/inbox Thanks. Robb Hinds Colorado Springs -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] More reasons to sign up for the RMBO Barbecue for the Birds, this Saturday
Thanks, Larry, for posting your warm invitation to this great and growing annual RMBO August tradition! The Barbecue will be at the Old Stone House, which is close to Barr Lake. In addition to the many events you mentioned, I am looking forward to the 11:10 AM presentation of the coveted Rich Levad Award. Rich Levad, as most of you know, was a giant in Colorado avian research, with his strong work over many years on the Black Swift, The Coolest Bird. Rich's efforts were extended in recent years by Jason Beason, Kim Potter and Carolyn Gunn, who were able to pry open the previously secret wintering ground of the Black Swift in South America. A few years ago, when Rich Levad succumbed to ALS after a heroic struggle, RMBO chose to present an annual Award in his memory. Karen Levad will be presenting it. Yes, the food, the field trips, seminars, and auctions will be great, but I'd emphasize that the camaraderie among birders at the event is a big reason to be there. See your friends and make new ones! Register on-line at RMBO.org today, where you can see the full schedule of events, a map showing how to get there, then join us in two days! Bring your binoculars, your appetite and a couple of friends. Larry Modesitt has personally arranged for the weather to be quite pleasant. Thanks, Larry! Joe Roller, Denver, RMBO Board [image: Description: Description: Description: Description: Description: RMBO logo smallest] http://www.rmbo.org/ -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out. image001.jpg
[cobirds] JUVENAL PLUMAGE CURLEW SANDPIPER at Jackson Reservoir NOW
Steve Mlodinoff just phoned me to report this bird. Go to the parking near the dam at the Outlet Canal at the south end of Jackson. Walk east along the dam face, which curves to the north, then back to the east (10 minute or less walk). At about marker 18 scan to the north about a half mile away. This rare CURLEW SANDPIPER is with a Buff-breasted Sandpiper and would be only the 3rd CO record if approved by the CBRC. Good luck if you go. You may want to walk out on the mudflat. Rubber boots are highly recommended. Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Walk-up Registration is Welcome at RMBO Barbecue for the Birds!
Let's say you just found out that you now are free to go to the festive RMBO Barbecue tomorrow AM at the Old Stone House, NEAR Barr Lake, (but don't go into Barr Lake State Park; you would be in the wrong spot). Perhaps you thought you needed to stay home all day and entertain your spouse's relatives, Uncle Dozey and Aunt Virus. But then you found out that their bus would not start, so your day just got freed up! Joy, oh Joy! IF YOU GO to the RMBO.org site, you will see a map and a list of all the activities in store for you, including a big lunch. Up until this evening you were able to register on line. *But that option is now closed* (Hey, they had to tell the Burger-Meisters how many buns to buy at some point). BUT be assured that you can stroll up to the Registration table in person, live, tomorrow AM at the Old Stone House. I hope to see you there. Register at the door on Aug. 25 (cash, check, Mastercard, Visa or Discover). Admission includes lunch and all activities. $11 members $13 non-members $6 ages 5 through 12 Under 5 free Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Duane Nelson Receives RMBO's prestigious Rich Levad Award
Duane Nelson has been a pillar of the Colorado birding community for decades and a friend, teacher and guide to many of us. Karen Levad, the widow of famed RMBO field biologist Rich Levad, presented the Rich Levad Award to Duane at the Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory's annual Barbecue for the Birds on a sunny day, Saturday, August 25, at the Old Stone House near Barr Lake. This award recognizes persons who have provided distinguished service to the ornithological community, made scholarly contributions to the field of ornithology and/or have enthused others about conserving birds and their habitats through sharing their personal knowledge and experience throughout the Rocky Mountain Region. Karen was beaming, Duane was both humble and proud, and the crowd of over 200 applauded vigorously. Duane's daughter, Linnea, and many of his birding buddies were present, including a blast from the past in the person of David Martin, who birded with Duane and maintained the Rare Bird Alert back in the day when it was called The Tape. Among Duane Nelson's many achievements over the decades included his discovery of and tireless work at the Dinosaur Ridge Hawkwatch Site in the early 1990's. He was chair of the CFO's Bird Record Committee, received the DFO's Ptarmigan Award, and has been a major contributor to both Colorado's Breeding Bird Atlas I and Atlas II. In fact Duane's life's work over the past 22 years to study, manage and conserve Colorado's Piping Plovers and Least Terns closely parallels the work of Rich Levad himself, who for decades studied and taught us about the Black Swift, The Coolest Bird. Duane has personally led hundreds, even thousands of interested birders to view and admire the plovers and terns. As one qualified observer said it, It is fair to say that without his dedicated efforts we would not have breeding Piping Plovers and Least Terns anywhere in Colorado. I could go on, but want to close with Duane's personal recollection of his friend and colleague, Rich Levad. Rich Levad was a birding luminary to me. The last time I spent time with him we did Black Rail surveys for RMBO in Bent County together. RIch could no longer drive, and his son that for us, but Rich was alive with excitement about the rails and their habitat. I treasured his friendship and passion for making the world a better place. Heartfelt congratulations, Duane Nelson! -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Scissor-tailed Flycatcher at Van Bibber Park, (Jeffco), but farther west
Expecting to make birding history by being the first birder NOT to see the legendary ST Flycatcher, I walked a good half mile west of the parking lot, which lies just east of 58th Avenue and on the west side of Ward Road, a few miles north of I-70. In fact it took some looking and some luck, as the bird was hiding in Russian Olives, near the place where the concrete footpath crosses Van Bibber Creek. This is way west of the yellow fireplug. I took some advice posted earlier and walked along the horse path that follows the fence which is north of the footpath. Access to this horse trail is from the north side of the parking lot. A juvy Western Kingbird was near the Scissor-tailed. Good luck. Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Mountain Chickadee, Rocky Mtn Natl Park ? record high altitude?
Eric, You were correct to be surprised. That's a pretty high altitude! Bob and Bob show MOCH at about 11,200 feet, routinely, with no little Dots to indicate a one time higher record. Joe Roller,Denver On Mon, Sep 10, 2012 at 7:55 AM, Eric DeFonso bay.w...@gmail.com wrote: Please, let me explain :) On Saturday, I saw and heard a Mountain Chickadee while at the highest point in the tundra field at Rock Cut along Trail Ridge road in RMNP. The elevation there is about 12,300 feet. I was pretty surprised, and I was wondering if anyone who has BobBob handy can tell me what they say if anything about the highest elevation recorded for this species in Colorado. This area in particular is quite far in every direction from treeline, and is about as high elevation as you can go in the park without requiring a multi-hour hike. The habitat up there is of course just open tundra, and it's well above any of the spruce-fir forest or even the krummholz (vertically by several hundred to 1000 ft, I think). The bird didn't hang out long, but it seemed well out of place. Has anyone else had Mountain Chickadee that high up and that far away from its usual habitat? Thanks for humoring me, Eric DeFonso Fort Collins -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msg/cobirds/-/AdIuWRxdvGkJ. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] RUDDY TURNSTONE continues on Logan County side of Prewitt Reservoir
Two RUDDY TURNSTONES continue on the same narrow strip of rocky beach where Steve Mlodinow found them a few days ago. Drive to the easternmost of the three official parking areas at Prewitt Reservoir, and walk up the steep staircase that leads to the dam top. The birds are practically at your feet there and do not require a Lawrence of Arabia type trek, as has been needed at Jackson, etc. They were accompanied by a few Sanderlings. Please note that Prewitt is now closed to scuba diving. Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Chestnut-sided Warbler at Washington Park, Denver County
Over the past week about 6-8 each of Townsend's, Wilson's, Yellow-rumped, and Orange-crowned Warblers have been easy to find in trees along the east shore of Grasmere Lake in Washington Park, Denver. The favored trees lie north of the island and around to the flower garden near the northeast shore. Today they were joined by an immature Chestnut-sided Warbler, showing its pleasing chartreuse cap. I have not bumped into many other passerines in my limited visits there. There have been a couple of dozen Snowy Egrets hanging out on the aforemetioned island. Directions: Travel from where you are now to Washington Park. Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Chestnut-sided Warbler continues in Washington Park, Denver County
This apparent first-fall female bird is confiding and was the 3rd bird I saw after getting out of my car just before noon today. It was moving about in the trees, about 8-20 feet off the ground and appeared without any pishing, but was very attracted to quiet pishing later on. I followed it for 20 minutes, then the flock moved away. I was able to see not only the obvious marks, like the lime green upper-parts, yellow wing-bars, (these are notable, as wing-bars on most Colorado warblers are white), the white eye-ring and clean white underparts, but was also able to glimpse small areas of light yellowish near the vent and notice the posture of cocking the tail up. There was no chestnut at all on the underparts, fitting best with first fall females shown in field guides. The yellowish wing-bars alone were worth the trip. The best place to park is along the extension of Mississippi Avenue as it continues west into the park from South Franklin Street. From there check the trees near the park bench that is on the NE corner of Grasmere Lake. This is near the Bowling Green also. Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] First fall female Chestnut-sided continues at Wash Park, Denver
The flock of warblers with the Chesnut-sided in it continues in the same place: the NE corner and north side of Grasmere Lake, which is the more southerly of the two big lakes in Washington Park, Denver. I saw it twice, briefly, but well, during the 25 minutes I was there, arriving at 4:30 today. Tina Jones was very patient and stayed a little longer until she got great looks. Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
Re: [cobirds] Large flock of Sandhill Cranes, Fort Collins, Larimer Co.
Thanks, Matt! It would be cool if other birders farther south listen for this flock and post up to the minute reports as the flock tracks south! Then I can go outside at the precise moment they fly over chilly Denver and get back inside by the cozy fireplace right away! Joe Roller, Denver On Fri, Oct 5, 2012 at 11:44 AM, Matt Webb alpha60f...@gmail.com wrote: Hey all, There is currently (as of 11:40am, friday) a large flock of Sandhill Cranes flying south over Fort Collins. A friend on CSU campus and I (from my home just east of campus) saw at least 75 birds quite high, but after they were gone, I could hear more flying over but could not find them. The flocks were headed directly south and should cross Loveland and I'd assume Longmont and Niwot as well! Good luck viewing them! Matt Webb Fort Collins, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msg/cobirds/-/Urr_1wWNsnMJ. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Annals of Geography. Karlene's Pond at Belmar Park, in honor of Karlene Schofield
Friends, Belmar Historic Park in Lakewood, Colorado, has been featured in the birding news of late, as it has been hopping with warblers and other fun birds. Over many years no one has worked this patch as much as one of Lakewood's stalwart birders, Karlene Schofield. Karlene has been diligent in birding there and has given her time to lead field trips and stay in touch with other avid Belmar birders. Like Gaul, Belmar Park's surface water is divided into three parts: Kountz Lake, the largest of the three, and the only waterbody with a name. The second area that attracts birds and birders is innominate marshy area to the northwest of Kountz Lake. Then there is the famous and yet to be named bow-tie shaped small pond' to the southwest of the big lake. I propose that we ditch the name small pond and honor Belmar Park's esteemed aviphile, Karlene Schofield, by hereafter proudly calling it Karlene's Pond. Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Please forward to Warren Finch
Dick, I don't have Warren's email address. Could you send it to me or just forward my note about Karlene's Pond to him? thanks. Tell Marie I am thinking about her. Joe -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Last Chance Oasis Appreciation Day, Saturday, November 3rd
Birding friends, Here's our chance to help say thanks to Last Chance! I am sure that we all feel grateful for the easy access birders have had to the crossroads community of Last Chance, Colorado, over many years. Soon after the devastating fire of June 25th swept through almost 50,000 acres of range and farmland, the community and the Oasis, many of you birders have expressed a desire to do our bit to help, in any way we can. At a recent community meeting, it was agreed to hold a Last Chance Oasis Appreciation and Clean Up Day on Saturday, November 3, from 11 til 3 PM. There will likely be some food, and a truck will be on hand to haul away debris. We're all set! Here's our chance to say thanks to the Woodlin Lions who maintain the Charlie Harbert Memorial Park, meet the property owner of the Oasis, as well as residents and members of the vibrant Last Chance/Woodlin School community. Although one notices only a small hamlet at the crossroads, there is a large and strong Community of great people nearby. Who knew? You will enjoy meeting them, and they are keen to hear birders share stories about how great the Oasis has been to us and to the birds. The area suffered a great blow from the fire, with houses destroyed, major property losses, but no injuries to residents. It costs $8,000 to $10,000 to replace a mile of fence, and many miles burned. We can't do much about that except express our sympathy. *But* we can clean up trash from the Oasis, spread some straw, maybe get there early for some birding and express our gratitude about having such open and welcome access to Last Chance. *Every place we go there is private property, and we can't take it for granted*. A grant is in the works to mitigate fire damage and enhance habitat for birds. We've agreed on the steps to take this fall, namely cleaning up and spreading seedless straw on the bare slopes (which burned very hot, destroying all grass seed). Next spring we'll plant grass to prevent further erosion (which is already happening). We are getting experts' opinions and are leaning toward planting native shrubs to enhance the habitat for birds. All that is in the discussion phase. Get a carload of friends, grab your work gloves and I'll see you there on Last Chance Oasis Appreciation Day, November 3rd. Even if you can't find your work gloves of find a shovel that is just your size, come anyway to say thanks and we'll find something for you to do! Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Sapsucker at Last Chance, probably an adult, male Yellow-bellied
I took some sketchy photos of an adult sapsucker at Last Chance today, and among other field marks, there is black surrounding red on the throat. Looks like what field guides show as an adult male YB Sap. In an hour, from 0930 til 1030, I and two others saw neither the Hermit or the Black-throated Blue Warbler. I would not be surprised if the Hermit shows up again, as it has had an off and on presence since Steve Mlodinoff first discovered it. Yet another way to describe its favored haunts at Last Chance is to search high (and especially) low in the part of the NE quadrant of the Last Chance intersection that is West of the old motel. Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Birdy at Last Chance? not so much
Birds I found at Last Chance, the Oasis and behind the motel today from 9-10:30. Downy Woodpecker 1 Northern Shrike 1 Ruby-crowned Kinglet 1 American Robin 4 White-crowned Sparrow 2 Dark-eyed Junco 6 House Sparrow - 25 Joe Roller, Denver Time flies like the wind. Fruit flies like bananas. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Final details: Nov 3rd, Last Chance Oasis Appreciation Day cleanup. New start time is 10:30.
Greetings, appreciative birders! Details of the big day at Last Chance have firmed up and about ten grateful birders have signed up for this Saturday, November 3rd. We could use a few more. We'll be joined by some of the Lions Club members and a representative of M12arts. This is our chance to show our appreciation for access to this very birdy site, and it's not just about trash pickup. So please come without work gloves if you just want to say thanks.' *We will meet at 10:30* at Last Chance at the intersection of Highways 36 and 71. Trash pickup will start then, and please note, the TIME HAS MOVED UP by 30 minutes. This is due to the nice people of the Last Chance area providing lunch for us, which will start at NOON. If there is any work left over, we can finish it up after lunch. At that time, we might be spreading some straw over the hotly burnt and sterile slopes. Erosion has started to carve gullies, and we'll plant native grass seed and shrubs next spring. (We will only be working in the SW corner this Saturday and not katty-corner at the old motel site). The folks out there are kindly providing the bulk of the lunchtime meal and are eager for us to join them to eat and chat. *It would be swell if each of us birders could * *bring a salad or a dessert* to share with 4-6 persons, as they have the other courses covered. No alcoholic beverages, of course. Please arrange your schedule to stay until 1 PM, at least, as it means a lot to them for us to stay and share a meal. (Not much happens out at Last Chance without a casserole, which is a good thing). Work gloves, old clothes, a salad or dessert to share and an appetite are all you need to bring. Some of you might bring a shovel or pick-ax, as some of the objet's d'art are semi-buried. Thanks, Joe Roller, Denver for questions, please reply directly to me by email or on my cell, 303 204-0828. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Wow! Is 23 Common Loons a high count for Colorado?
J D Birchmeier's report of 23 Common Loons on a private lake west of Erie, documented by photos, is way more loons than I have heard of for one area. I chatted with JD and raised the question could these have been cormorants? but silly me, they were photo-documented loons of the Gavia immer type! I'll through this out on the can you top this list. Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Thanks! There are enough birders signed up for Last Chance Oasis for Saturday!
I have been in touch with all the birders who have contacted me to volunteer and the final plan is set. If you are burning with desire to go out there tomorrow (Saturday), please contact me and I will put you on a waiting list. There will be another Appreciation Day next spring, when our grant comes through and we will plant some native shrubs. Thanks again to those who signed up! Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
Re: [cobirds] Re: Unidentified Sparrow at my feeder - can anyone identify? Littleton, CO
The bicolored bill makes it an American Tree Sparrow in my book. Joe Roller On Mon, Nov 12, 2012 at 7:09 PM, Dave Cameron davedn...@msn.com wrote: Looks like a Song Sparrow, albeit a dark one. Dave Cameron -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msg/cobirds/-/dd2cZPf5r2oJ. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Colorado Field Ornithologists requests Nominations for Ron Ryder, Lifetime Achievement and Appreciation Awards.
Birders, The CFO Board will review nominations from any CFO member for these prestigious awards. Criteria for each award and a complete list of past recipients can be found at: http://cfobirds.org/business/awards.htm Notice that these awards are not necessarily given every year. Please email me an intention to nominate someone for any award, and I will send you a simple form to fill out and return by January 15, 2013. Each nomination will be reviewed by the Board at our January 26, 2013 meeting, when final decisions will be made. Please do not delay, and do not hesitate to discuss the process with me. Thanks! -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] No bird seed allowed at BCLP? No fair! How dare they!
Dismayed at the officiousness of the Bear Creek Lake Park rangers, I worked up my indignation and managed to find a work-around. After many phone-calls and emails, I established contact with the three nuns (Sister Anne Marie, Sister Elizabeth and Sister Bernadette) who visited the Park the other day. They agreed to take a big bag of birdseed to the Brambling hangout tomorrow. Too busy today. Others will have to sneak some (seed, not nuns) into the park on other days. If you missed rebelling in the sixties and did not burn your draft card, here is your chance to step forward into the exciting world of civil disobedience! Three of us are signed up so far to either go your bail or visit you in jail. Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Plan to work things out with the Rangers and Manager at BCLP
Tom and other birders, Are you sitting down? I am serious for a change. No joke, this is serious. I chatted with Erik, a Park Ranger at Lakewood today. Their policy about not feeding wildlife has more to do with the many ill effects of people casually feeding ducks and geese at the lake. There are bird feeders at the Park Headquarters, and the staff are simpatico with our situation. They are just trying to be consistent with their own rules. Erik mentioned that birders have been good about parking properly in the lot and otherwise obeying rules, paying entrance fees, Not only are they raking in the dough, but I think that the Lakewood Park system can garner some good publicity out of the Brambling situation, which is of more lasting value than the extra ducats. Tomorrow I have will chat with some higher ups to see if we can find a mutually satisfactory compromise. Jeff Gordon called to mention that birders will be flying in from all over if that Brambling sticks around. Once the ground rules are set, the ABA can help get the word out to those interested. When I was at the site at about 2:30, about 15+ birders were seeing the Brambling about every 10-15 minutes on the footbridge. One couple had driven down from Omaha. Also, Mike Henwood, finder of this Siberian finch, has worked closely for years with the Rangers to bring the Park bird list. He returns to town tomorrow evening, and we are optimistic about a good solution. I must have had a moment of temporary insanity to hint that people adopt the scoff-law position. Not only have I had pangs of guilt but waves of remorse. The park opens around 7:45 this weekend, by 8 at the very latest. In contrast to recent weekdays, the main gate may be closed earlier than that. The Brambling is an all day bird, so there is no need to be there by dawn's early light. Joe Roller, Denver On Fri, Nov 23, 2012 at 2:44 PM, Tom Wilberding twilberd...@comcast.netwrote: Hello Bear Creek Lake Park, ** ** Many Colorado birders have enjoyed seeing the Brambling at your Coyote trail on the bridge. Some have spread bird seed in order to attract the Brambling to the open to see it. I understand a ranger recently put up a sign, “Do not feed wildlife.” I wonder why? I am puzzled because the park feeds wildlife at your visitor’s center—bird feeders. Thanks for helping me understand your point of view. If you don’t mind, I will pass on your answer to my birding pals in Colorado. ** ** Congrats on running a wonderful park! ** ** Tom Wilberding Boulder, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] I'll let you know how we can cooperate with the Park after I meet with them Saturday
For now, I appreciate all the opinions. One of my goals is not only to allow a little discreet bird feeding, but see if the Rangers can be coaxed into putting up a detour for the mountain bikers. I'll chill for now and work towards what is best for the bird, the birders and the Park. It's a real opportunity for the Park to get some publicity based on the out of state birders who are poised to fly out here. The extra fees pale in comparison to a newspaper article, a nice note to the head of Lakewood State Parks from ABA, warm fuzzy feelings, etc, etc. Thanks again for the input. Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Forwarded: a note of appreciation from a Massachusetts birder
Joe, I saw your post to CO birds. Thanks for working on the seed issue. I tend to agreed that feeding the wildlife is not a great practice but in this case the impacts seem minimal. I flew from Massachusetts to see the Brambling, paid my fee for two days, and saw it on the second day thanks to a little old lady with a pocket of seed. I don't know how to email the CO birds list but feel free to pass on my sentiments to the blog. Happy Birding! Devin Hefferon Watertown, MA -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Explanation from Lakewood Regional Parks Supervisor about how to use bird seed at the Park
Here is the response to inquiries Tom Wilberding and I made to the Bear Creek Lake Park Supervisor: Tom and Joe, ** ** Thank for your interest in this wonderful birding opportunity and for expressing your concerns. Unfortunately some confusion among staff caused the no feeding of wildlife sign to be posted. Under City ordinance the feeding of wildlife is strictly prohibited, however this does not apply to the feeding of birds. We have pulled the sign and will not take action against anyone using bird seed to attract the Brambling. However, the following will be enforced in addition to all other park rules and regulations: ** ** **· **Bird seed bags may not be left overnight. This has already happened and it can attract other wildlife and is also litter. **· **The bird seed may not attract any other wildlife, including waterfowl. If this happens then it will be considered feeding of wildlife and enforcement action may be taken. ** ** We are happy to work with the birding community to make this an enjoyable experience for all. Please let me know if there are further concerns. ** ** Thanks, ** ** Drew Sprafke Regional Parks Supervisor City of Lakewood This explains everything. Now we are ready for the Hoary Redpoll. Joe Roller, Denver ** -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] CFO Landowner Appreciation Plaque presented at Last Chance, Colorado
Birders, During its November meeting, the Board of the Colorado Field Ornithologists voted to award the coveted CFO Appreciation Plaque to the Maude Miller family, Dennis and Evelyn Everhart and the Woodlin Lions Club. CFO gives such plaques to those who have gone out of their way to welcome birders to their homes and private land to see birds. The Miller and Everhart families own the Last Chance Oasis and the old motel area where we have had so many pleasant hours. And the CFO was happy to donate $250 to the Woodlin Lions Club. On Thursday, December 13, Charlie Lawrence and I stopped by Last Chance on our way out Route 36 to the Bonny Christmas Count. Gathered at the Charlie Harbert Memorial Park were Doug Vondy, representing the Lions Club, other club members and the Everharts. The Woodlin Lions Club built the inviting rest area decades ago and has dutifully maintained it ever since. The fine folks who accepted the Award and the check were pleased and proud to have this recognition and support from the CFO. Birders and community members became friends during the Last Chance Oasis Appreciation and Cleanup Day on November 3rd. Spring Planting Day at the Oasis in April will be another chance for all of us to get together. Photos and an article about the history, birds and people of Last Chance will appear in the April edition of *Colorado Birds*. Thanks, Joe Roller, CFO Board -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Ann Molison's email may have been hijacked.
I received 5 suspicious looking emails in a row from her address, and suggest not opening those til situation clarified. Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Helpful photos comparing two redpoll species side by side
Fellow finchophiles - In addition to the excellent study aides from Wilberding, Sibley and many others, I found it helpful to go to Glenn Walbek's photo site (the link is http://www.pbase.com/gwalbek) Open the file 2013 birds and look at the 4th photo in the second row. There one can compare side-by-side photos of perched Common and Hoary Redpolls, feather by feather. This comes up aces in my opinion. All of the other photos I have seen have been quite useful, and thanks to all the photographers and descriptors. Joe Roller, Denver Founding member of CHORES Common and Hoary Observers Reporting Educational Stuff Remember, It's a chore! -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
Re: [cobirds] South Plattte (Canyon? ) Reservoir
Directions and other information about South Platte Reservoir. Go west on C-470 across the South Platte River. Other routes are less viable. Go north at the first exit west of that river, which is South Platte Canyon Road. Proceed north for about 1/3 mile and turn right onto South Depew Street, which is the first named street you come to. South Depew Street bends to the south. Follow it and note that its name changes to Viable Road, which can be lively with birdlife. Avoid any unviable roads. You are now circumnavigating South Platte Reservoir counter-clockwise, below the dam. Park either in the lot on the SW side of this water body and walk up a short trail to the path around the dam. You are still in Jefferson County, but when you walk along the dam to the east you quickly enter Arapahoe County, in which lies about 85% of the Reservoir. From the SW side there is a nice stroll to get to where most of the birds congregate on the SE side of place. OR continue east on Viable Road, to the SE side of the reservoir, park and walk up a short trail to the darned path. Recently most of the open water has been on the SE side, but ice seems to be retreating during this outbreak of balmy weather. If you can possibly bring a scope, bring it, as many of the birds are seen at a distance. As you peek over the SE side of the dam, be cautious, as some waterfowl can be very close to the dam, and may swim or fly away. This is not as much of an issue if you arrive at 8 or after, as joggers and birders have preceded you and had the same effect on the birds. If Greater Scaup are not seen in the Reservoir, continue east on Viable Road til it ends and look for ducks on the small ponds there. Joe Roller On Thu, Jan 24, 2013 at 9:53 AM, Hugh Kingery ouze...@aol.com wrote: Cobirders have sent multiple reports about South Platte (Canyon?) Reservoir but I haven't noticed any posts that tell where it is. CFOs County Birding site does not mention it. Perhaps someone could post the location and how to get there? Hugh Kingery Franktown, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Colorado RBA, Sunday, February 3, 2013
Compiler: Joe Roller** Date: February 3, 2013 email:rba AT cfobirds.org phone: 303-659-8750 ** ** This is the Colorado Rare Bird Alert for Sunday, February 3, 2013, sponsored by Denver Field Ornithologists and the Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory. If you are phoning in a message, you can skip the recording by pressing the star key (*) on your phone at any time. Please leave your name, phone number, detailed directions, including county and dates for each sighting. It would be helpful if you would spell your last name. ** Highlight species include: (* denotes that there is new information on this species in this report)** ** Trumpeter Swan (Larimer) Long-tailed Duck (Arapahoe) Red-throated Loon (Pueblo) ICELAND GULL (Boulder) Lesser Black-backed Gull (Boulder) Glaucous-winged Gull (Boulder) Glaucous Gull (Pueblo) Great Black-backed Gull (Boulder, Pueblo) ACORN WOODPECKER (El Paso, Pueblo) Carolina Wren (Prowers) Marsh Wren (Jefferson) Eastern Towhee (Adams, Prowers) Swamp Sparrow (Arapahoe, Jefferson) GOLDEN-CROWNED SPARROW (Jefferson) Northern Cardinal (Prowers) Rusty Blackbird (Adams) Rosy-Finches (Grand) Common Redpoll (Jefferson, Grand, Jackson, Larimer) HOARY REDPOLL (Grand, Jackson, Larimer) ** ***ADAMS COUNTY: * --A female Eastern Towhee was seen along 160th Av. about one mile east of I-76 on Jan. 31 by Walbek. It was seen in front of a house with large junipers in the front yard on south side of 160th. ** -- On January 26 Miller reported that the small flock of Rusty Blackbirds continues to be seen on the South Platte River in the vicinity of the I-76 bridge; if not here, look upstream - they have been found as far upstream as the sewage plant outflow near Sand Creek. Miller also reported that one of the two White Pelicans first reported by Goulart on Jan 21 was still present on the river near the I-76 bridge on the 26th. Barrow's Goldeneyes (both male and female) continue to be seen on the S. Platte between 78th and 88th (opposite the green white water tank). ** ** *ARAPAHOE COUNTY:* --Two Long-tailed Ducks and a Common Loon were still present on South Platte Reservoir (signed entrance is on Platte Canyon Rd. north of C-470) on January 30. Seven Greater Scaup were on the small lake (Blackrock Lake) between South Platte Reservoir and the Platte River in South Platte Park on the 26th. A Swamp Sparrow found by Henwood and Raker on Jan 25 along the So. Platte about 100 yds. (estimated) downstream (north) from the east-most parking area here near an island in the river was not seen on the 26th. * BOULDER COUNTY:* --A 1st-cycle ICELAND GULL was seen at Teller Lake #5 on February 1, reported by Walbek. Other gulls seen here on Feb1 were an adult Lesser Black-backed Gull and several adult Thayer's Gulls. Nunes reported an adult ICELAND GULL at Teller Lake #5 on Jan. 26; three Lesser Black-backed Gulls were also here on the 26th. Kaempfer reported a 1st cycle Glaucous-winged Gull at Teller Lake #5 on January 24, and on January 18, Vanderpoel reported a 1st cycle Great Black-backed Gull here. **On Jan 19 the Great Black-backed Gull was seen at Prince Lake #1 by Kaempfer. ** **-- Mlodinow reported the following birds seen at Valmont Reservoir on January 27: a Glaucous-winged Gull, 2 Lesser Black-backed Gulls, 12 Tundra Swans, a White Pelican and a Chestnut-collared Longspur.** * EL PASO COUNTY:* --Maynard reports that the ACORN WOODPECKER continues to be present in SW Colorado Springs in the 1804 - 1810 section of Cheyenne Blvd. It was seen again on the 28th.** *GRAND COUNTY:* --On January 18 Filby reported that in Kremmling the feeders in the 900 block of Eagle had 100 Common Redpolls. 60+ Rosy-Finches of all three species were present. Mlodinow reported 200 redpolls including 3 HOARY REDPOLLs seen in Kremmling on Jan 27. *JACKSON COUNTY:* --**More than100 redpolls, including at least one HOARY REDPOLL, were seen in Walden on January 26, reported by Mlodinow. ** *JEFFERSON COUNTY:* -- Erthal reported a Marsh Wren and a Swamp Sparrow seen in the Wheatridge Greenbelt on Jan 22. Both birds were seen in the marsh at the southwest corner of Bass Lake near the end of the boardwalk. These birds have been seen off and on since then. -- The GOLDEN-CROWNED SPARROW at the Red Rocks Trading Post, first reported by Henwood on Nov. 26, continues to be seen at least through January 29 and is assumed to still be present. --On January 29, Santangelo reported that several Common Redpolls, first reported on the 14th, were still coming to his feeder in Wheatridge. His address is: 3525 Estes St. (two blocks north of Crown Hill Lake and two blocks south of 38th Ave). You may park in front of the driveway but please *do not park in* the driveway and please stay in your car to observe the redpolls. *LARIMER COUNTY:* --The large flock (100) of redpolls continues to be seen behind the Discovery Museum in Ft. Collins, located
[cobirds] Colorado RBA, Tuesday, February 5 update
on the 14th, were still coming to his feeder in Wheatridge. His address is: 3525 Estes St. (two blocks north of Crown Hill Lake and two blocks south of 38th Ave). You may park in front of the driveway but please *do not park in* the driveway and please stay in your car to observe the redpolls. *LARIMER COUNTY:* --The large flock (100) of redpolls continues to be seen behind the Discovery Museum in Ft. Collins, located at Cherry and Mason St, which is the NW corner of College and Cherry through February 1. While almost all are Common Redpolls, multiple observers have seen HOARY REDPOLLs at this location since December 23, most recently on Feb1 reported by Sparks. --One Trumpeter Swan continues on Lower Hoffman Lake, Loveland, on Feb 3, reported by Rynes. ** -- An interesting sapsucker of uncertain identity was reported on January 30 by Leatherman from Grandview Cemetery, Fort Collins. It apparently has plumage features of both Red-naped and Yellow-bellied Sapsucker. It favors a big Scots Pine in the nw corner of the main section of the cemetery west of the n-s ditch that runs under the entry bridge (which would make it the nw corner of Section A). To find the tree, cross the bridge at the entry, immediately turn right (north) and go all the way north until the road begins to bend west in the corner. The pine tree it likes is right at the bend (the only long-needled pine tree in the general area), between the road and the bank of the dry ditch. *PROWERS COUNTY: *--Leatherman reported the following birds seen in the Lamar Community College woods on January 24: an adult male probable Eastern Towhee, a Carolina Wren, and several (up to 4) Northern Cardinals. The towhee hangs out in the area near the feeder east of the library. Please note that experts differ on whether this is an Eastern Towhee or a possible hybrid Eastern x Spotted Towhee. --A juv. Yellow-bellied Sapsucker was present in Willow Creek Park, Lamar, on Jan 24 reported by Leatherman. * PUEBLO COUNTY:* --Sanders reported the following birds seen at Pueblo Reservoir on January 26: at the South Marina a Great Black-backed Gull, Pacific Loon, and Red-throated Loon; at West Fisherman Point a 1st-cyc Glaucous Gull. --Nelson reported that the ACORN WOODPECKER was still present at Pueblo Mountain Park near Beulah on January 16.** It was not seen on Jan 26th, but is possibly still in the park. *SUMMIT COUNTY: * - Deininger reports 3 species of rosy-finches at feeders on private property, seen on Feb 3. Go afield and find a bird! Joe Roller Denver 303 204-0828 or jroll...@gmail.com -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Colorado Rare Bird Alert for Thursday, February 7
. *LARIMER COUNTY:* --The large flock (100) of redpolls continues to be seen behind the Discovery Museum in Ft. Collins, located at Cherry and Mason St, which is the NW corner of College and Cherry through February 1. While almost all are Common Redpolls, multiple observers have seen HOARY REDPOLLs at this location since December 23, most recently on Feb1 reported by Sparks. --One Trumpeter Swan continues on Lower Hoffman Lake, Loveland, on Feb 3, reported by Rynes; then on Feb 5 by Leatherman. ** -- An interesting sapsucker of uncertain identity was reported on January 30 by Leatherman from Grandview Cemetery, Fort Collins. It apparently has plumage features of both Red-naped and Yellow-bellied Sapsucker. It favors a big Scots Pine in the nw corner of the main section of the cemetery west of the n-s ditch that runs under the entry bridge (which would make it the nw corner of Section A). To find the tree, cross the bridge at the entry, immediately turn right (north) and go all the way north until the road begins to bend west in the corner. The pine tree it likes is right at the bend (the only long-needled pine tree in the general area), between the road and the bank of the dry ditch. -- Hess reports a flock of Common Redpolls in Grandview Cemetery on Feb 5. *PROWERS COUNTY: *--Leatherman reported the following birds seen in the Lamar Community College woods on January 24: an adult male probable Eastern Towhee, a Carolina Wren, and several (up to 4) Northern Cardinals. The towhee hangs out in the area near the feeder east of the library. Please note that experts differ on whether this is an Eastern Towhee or a possible hybrid Eastern x Spotted Towhee. --A juv. Yellow-bellied Sapsucker was present in Willow Creek Park, Lamar, on Jan 24 reported by Leatherman. * PUEBLO COUNTY:* --Nelson reported that the ACORN WOODPECKER was still present at Pueblo Mountain Park near Beulah on January 16.** It was not seen on Jan 26th, but is possibly still in the park. *SAN JUAN COUNTY*: Beatty reports that Common Redpolls have been visiting a feeder in Silverton, Colorado. This bird, which carries the nickname of Catkin Finch, is most rare in that part of the Centennial State. *SUMMIT COUNTY: * - Deininger reports 3 species of rosy-finches at feeders on private property, seen on Feb 3. *Denver Field Ornithologists Weekend Field Trips:* * * Saturday, February 9 Photographing Dippers – Lair o’the Bear ParkTime: 0800 Leader: Lee Farrell Phone: 303-932-7859 Meeting Place and Directions*:* Lair o’the Bear parking lot. From Morrison C-470, drive 4 miles west on C-74 to park entrance on left. PRE-REGISTRATION is required, limited to 8 photographers, spouses welcome. Half day trip at most. This trip will give nature/bird photographers a fantastic chance to capture American Dippers against beautiful icy backdrops! Join Lee Farrell on this unique DFO trip. Must have 300MM or greater for best images. Sunday, February 10 South Platte River at 88th.Leader: Chris Owens 303-772-6048. Meet leader at 0800 at E. 88th and the South Platte River –From I-25 take Thornton parkway to Washington. Go south on Washington to 88th. Go left to Colorado Blvd. then into the parking lot for the South Platte River Greenway Trailhead. This will be a half-day trip walking on paved trails for about two miles. We hope to see Barrow’s Goldeneyes and other waterfowl. Trip will end by noon, so lunch is optional. RSVP at (303)772-6048 or email Chris. (christ...@q.com) Bon chance avec les oiseaux! Joe Roller Denver 303 204-0828 or jroll...@gmail.com -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Colorado Rare Bird Alert, February 9, 2013
of the cemetery west of the n-s ditch that runs under the entry bridge (which would make it the nw corner of Section A). To find the tree, cross the bridge at the entry, immediately turn right (north) and go all the way north until the road begins to bend west in the corner. The pine tree it likes is right at the bend (the only long-needled pine tree in the general area), between the road and the bank of the dry ditch. -- Hess reports a flock of Common Redpolls in Grandview Cemetery on Feb 5, reported again by Leatherman on Feb 8. -- Leatherman reports a flyover flock of Bohemian Waxwings from Grandview Cemetery on Feb 8. * PUEBLO COUNTY:* --Nelson reported that the ACORN WOODPECKER was still present at Pueblo Mountain Park near Beulah on January 16.** It was not seen on Jan 26th, but is possibly still in the park. *SAN JUAN COUNTY*: Beatty reports that Common Redpolls have been visiting a feeder in Silverton, Colorado. This bird, which carries the nickname of Catkin Finch, is most rare in that part of the Centennial State. *SUMMIT COUNTY: * - Deininger reports 3 species of rosy-finches at feeders on private property, seen on Feb 3. *Denver Field Ornithologists Weekend Field Trips:* * * Saturday, February 9 Photographing Dippers – Lair o’the Bear ParkTime: 0800 Leader: Lee Farrell Phone: 303-932-7859 Meeting Place and Directions*:* Lair o’the Bear parking lot. From Morrison C-470, drive 4 miles west on C-74 to park entrance on left. PRE-REGISTRATION is required, limited to 8 photographers, spouses welcome. Half day trip at most. This trip will give nature/bird photographers a fantastic chance to capture American Dippers against beautiful icy backdrops! Join Lee Farrell on this unique DFO trip. Must have 300MM or greater for best images. Sunday, February 10 South Platte River at 88th.Leader: Chris Owens 303-772-6048. Meet leader at 0800 at E. 88th and the South Platte River –From I-25 take Thornton parkway to Washington. Go south on Washington to 88th. Go left to Colorado Blvd. then into the parking lot for the South Platte River Greenway Trailhead. This will be a half-day trip walking on paved trails for about two miles. We hope to see Barrow’s Goldeneyes and other waterfowl. Trip will end by noon, so lunch is optional. RSVP at (303)772-6048 or email Chris. (christ...@q.com) Have fun in the field. Joe Roller Denver 303 204-0828 or jroll...@gmail.com -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Colorado Rare Bird Alert, February 10, 2013
and Yellow-bellied Sapsucker. It favors a big Scots Pine in the nw corner of the main section of the cemetery west of the n-s ditch that runs under the entry bridge (which would make it the nw corner of Section A). To find the tree, cross the bridge at the entry, immediately turn right (north) and go all the way north until the road begins to bend west in the corner. The pine tree it likes is right at the bend (the only long-needled pine tree in the general area), between the road and the bank of the dry ditch. -- Hess reports a flock of Common Redpolls in Grandview Cemetery on Feb 5, reported again by Leatherman on Feb 8. -- Leatherman reports a flyover flock of Bohemian Waxwings from Grandview Cemetery on Feb 8. * PUEBLO COUNTY:* --Nelson reported that the ACORN WOODPECKER was still present at Pueblo Mountain Park near Beulah on January 16.** It was not seen on Jan 26th, but is possibly still in the park. *SAN JUAN COUNTY*: Beatty reports that Common Redpolls have been visiting a feeder in Silverton, Colorado. *SUMMIT COUNTY: * - Deininger reports 3 species of rosy-finches at feeders on private property, seen on Feb 3. *Denver Field Ornithologists Weekend Field Trip:* * * Sunday, February 10 South Platte River at 88th.Leader: Chris Owens 303-772-6048. Meet leader at 0800 at E. 88th and the South Platte River –From I-25 take Thornton parkway to Washington. Go south on Washington to 88th. Go left to Colorado Blvd. then into the parking lot for the South Platte River Greenway Trailhead. This will be a half-day trip walking on paved trails for about two miles. We hope to see Barrow’s Goldeneyes and other waterfowl. Trip will end by noon, so lunch is optional. RSVP at (303)772-6048 or email Chris. (christ...@q.com) Not to worry, Joyce will be back soon. Joe Roller Denver 303 204-0828 or jroll...@gmail.com -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Colorado Rare Bird Alert for Monday, February 11, 2013.
, located at Cherry and Mason St, which is the NW corner of College and Cherry through February 1. While almost all are Common Redpolls, multiple observers have seen HOARY REDPOLLs at this location since December 23, most recently on Feb1 reported by Sparks. --One Trumpeter Swan continues on Lower Hoffman Lake, Loveland, on Feb 3, reported by Rynes; then on Feb 5 by Leatherman. ** -- An interesting sapsucker of uncertain identity was reported on January 30 by Leatherman from Grandview Cemetery, Fort Collins. It apparently has plumage features of both Red-naped and Yellow-bellied Sapsucker. It favors a big Scots Pine in the nw corner of the main section of the cemetery west of the n-s ditch that runs under the entry bridge (which would make it the nw corner of Section A). To find the tree, cross the bridge at the entry, immediately turn right (north) and go all the way north until the road begins to bend west in the corner. The pine tree it likes is right at the bend (the only long-needled pine tree in the general area), between the road and the bank of the dry ditch. -- Hess reports a flock of Common Redpolls in Grandview Cemetery on Feb 5, reported again by Leatherman on Feb 8. -- Leatherman reports a flyover flock of Bohemian Waxwings from Grandview Cemetery on Feb 8. * PUEBLO COUNTY:* --Nelson reported that the ACORN WOODPECKER was still present at Pueblo Mountain Park near Beulah on January 16.** It was not seen on Jan 26th, but is possibly still in the park. *SAN JUAN COUNTY*: Beatty reports that Common Redpolls have been visiting a feeder in Silverton, Colorado. * * Joe Roller Denver 303 204-0828 or jroll...@gmail.com -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Ginormous rafter of Wild Turkeys in Morgan County
I am not sure what was bigger than ginormous or I would have used it. Maybe giga-ginormous? While looking unsuccessfully for Eastern Bluebirds at a favored site in Morgan County today, Feb 12, I found myself driving NW on Highway 144, which is northwest of Log Lane Village, which is just west of Fort Morgan. I was stopped in my tracks at the intersection with road 13 at about 0930 by a rafter of Wild Turkeys. I counted by tens and got 130, first count. They were gleaning corn from a large field in the bottom lands of the S. Platte River. Upon returning by the same route a half hour later, I realized that I had missed the larger part of the rafter. The count this time was 290. That is more than enough for one turkey a day between now and Thanksgiving, with giblets to spare. In contrast to one or two of my messages from the distant past, I am serious this time. Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Join in on the fun at Last Chance Habitat Restoration Day, Saturday, April 6!
Birding friends, Ever since our successful Appreciation and Clean-up Day we had at Last Chance Oasis in early November, we've been eager to go back for Habitat Restoration. Think grass seed broadcasting, raking, shrub and tree planting, setting up drip irrigation, togetherness, and most importantly, chowing down on Pot Luck lunch! As you know a devastating fire swept through a wide swath of prairie, fields and farms last June, also scorching the Last Chance Oasis, a prime birding spot on the eastern plains. Some of the habitat is greening up, but many trees are black and gone, along with native grasses and shrubs. Thistle is rampant. The residents of Last Chance and the Woodlin Lions Club, which maintains the rest area there, have invited birders back to help them. This is our chance to show appreciation for the opportunity to bird at Last Chance, which is all private land and to help improve the habitat for birds. And make some new friends too. Everyone is welcome, even if you can't wield a pick-axe! The more, the merrier. So please join us on SATURDAY, APRIL 6, and consider yourself a Friend of Last Chance Oasis! We'll meet right at Last Chance at the corner of highways 36 and 71 in Washington County, only a ninety minute drive from Denver. At 9:00 AM we will review the work plan and get organized (coffee and goodies), then the work will start at 9:30. We expect to feast on Pot Luck lunch about 12:15. This is a casual day, so do some birding en route, and arrive a little later if you need to. PLEASE BRING A SALAD, MAIN DISH, SIDE DISH OR DESSERT, ENOUGH FOR SIX or EIGHT people. It would help if you could let me know what you plan bring, so we do not wind up with thirty pans of brownies (although I guess we could deal with thirty pans of brownies too). We'll be done by 3 PM, but not everyone needs to stay that late. Like last fall, we'll want to bring work gloves, rough clothes, boots, a shovel or rake and cheerfulness. Birders will again work in harness with the nice folks of the Woodlin Lions Club, and we'll meet the property owners. The Lions Club is providing a water supply, and Jim Kleinschmidt volunteered to do long-term watering. Wow, thanks! We are hoping to raise $1,500 to pay for seed, trees, shrubs, a drip irrigation system, etc. And with pledges of $200 so far, we're off to a good start. Please write checks to: Woodlin Lions Club, 25435 County Road L Woodrow, CO 80757 and on the check, write A Birding Friend of Last Chance Oasis. The grant we applied for to the Phillips Foundation was not approved, alas, but we birders can do it ourselves. Please check your calendar and let me know if you can join us at Last Chance Oasis on April 6th. Thank you! Joe Roller, Denver jroll...@gmail.com 303 204-0828 -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Taxonomic status of Mexican Duck, gleanings from the literature
Here I take a brief flight into the rarefied air breathed only by demi-gods, semi-devils and birding royalty. I am a curious but under-informed watcher from the bleachers in the parlor game of Taxonomy of the Mexican Duck, presently a subspecies of Mallard or as they say in the U. K. ... malLARD. So I tried to educate myself about this teapot-worthy tempest. The first reference I found seemed to me to be a readable summary of the pros and cons of splitting Mexican Duck from Mallard. (Actually this would be a re-split as in the past they had been considered two separate species. Way before that they were lumped with Pintails, Black Ducks, etc. by indigenous people as good eatin' ducks, and thus split from the other category don't try 'em ducks like Mergansers and cormorants. Here is a link to the one page summary I found, which itself has links to more detailed analyses. http://1birds.com/aou-to-leave-mexican-duck-in-limbo.htm I am confident that there are many more sites worth visiting for those of you who might not follow college basketball. Your faithful correspondent, Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Final invitation to help at Last Chance this Saturday, April 6
A group of birders will work alongside residents to help restore habitat after a fire swept though there last summer. *We have room for a few more.* Although many shrubs and trees survived, some did not, as the fire burned hot enough to sterilize the soil in areas. We'll be planting native grass and wildlflower seed, shrubs, a few hackberry trees and have a pot-luck lunch. We'll meet to plan the work at 9, work starts at 9:30 and be done by 3 PM, I hope. Generous contributions have been made by many of you, but we are still short funds to cover the cost of plants and materials, eg, a drip irrigation system. Please let me know if you want to join us Saturday and/or make a contribution to Friends of Last Chance Oasis, managed through the Woodlin Lions Club, 25435 Rd L, Woodrow 80757. I'll send a brief report to Cobirds for those of you who want to keep track of progress there. Thanks, Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Black-necked Stilts, Bonaparte's Gull at birdy Weld County site - Stewart Farm Pond
A good place to see newly arrived Black-necked Stilts, other shorebirds and waterfowl is the farm pond owned by a Mr. Stewart, near Highway 85, south of the town of LaSalle and southwest of Lower Latham Reservoir. From Denver, go Northeast on 85, past Brighton and Gilcrest, then turn right on Weld County Rode 46 and look for the large pond east of the junction of 46 and Weld CR 37. It is not a long drive from Lower Latham either. Acting on a tip from that peripatetic pair, Steve Mlodinow and Cathy Sheeter, I birded the site, (aka Stewarts' Pond and Stewart's Pond) on April 5 and again today, April 7. A highlight were the elegant Black-necked Stilts, just arrived from their austral wintering grounds, and increasing in numbers from six on the fifth to ten today. Also parading around this shallow pond were numbers of American Avocets, a few dozen Yellowlegs, (mostly Greater), 16 Baird's Sandpipers, a lone Least Sandpiper. Good numbers of dabbling ducks were in their best spring plumage, as were a few Cinnammon Teal. A basic plumaged Bonaparte's Gull was there. A tight flock of 80 Yellow-headed Blackbirds had not begun to pair up yet. Who knows what waders might be there tomorrow and tomorrow's tomorrow? A friend of mine saw an early Swainson's Hawk near there today. The nice thing about this site is that the owner and his tenant, Doug, are friendly to birders. They told me that one can park out of traffic near the oil tanks, in contrast to harrowing edge-of-the-road parking near Lower Latham and Beebe Draw. A scope is needed to see the birds well, but one is not so close as to flush them. Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Successful Habitat Restoration Day at Last Chance Oasis!
Birders and other friends, Most of you are aware that the famous migrant trap, the Last Chance Oasis, suffered from the June 2012 wildfire. Last November birders joined local folks and held a clean-up day there to show our appreciation for the generous and open access we have enjoyed for decades at this birdy site. Although many shrubs and trees are bouncing back, lots of trees and grassy slopes were burned black, burned down and won't be coming back. Yesterday, April 6th, an even dozen birders*, tools in hand, joined members of the Woodlin Lions Club to help mitigate habitat losses from the fire. A lot got done, and we also strengthened friendships among us birders and local residents. Johnny Miller, whose grandfather pioneered the area, helped out. Lois Scott, local news reporter, delighted us with tales of the old days. What we did: 1) We prepared the soil and broadcast over a wide area a custom blend of native grasses (switchgrass, both big and little bluestem, side-oats and blue grama) and wildflowers (yarrow and prairie coneflower). 2) We planted over 100 fruit-bearing bare-root shrubs, e.g., sumac, sand cherry, chokecherry, native plum, and trees in containers such as Hackberry, Rocky Mountain Juniper, and even a few oaks. Each of these was planted with a fertilizer pellet and was surrounded by rabbit-resistant mesh, and supported by small bamboo poles. Hundreds of feet of a drip irrigation system were laid out to water each plant and give them a chance during the dry summer. 3) Big piles of downed and burned limbs were sorted into smaller branches (deemed a fire hazard and hauled off at Mr. Miller's request) and larger limbs that we set aside as artists' materials. In late May, eco-artist *Lynne Hull*** and Colorado University Boulder art students will repurpose these as only artists know how to do. What will that look like? Come out in June and see! They will also fabricate a naturalistic Bat House, a Kestrel box and a Barn Owl box to be placed under the bridge. Illustrative of the project are nice photos taken by Tom Wilberding at this link... http://bit.ly/ZGyT98 The noon we enjoyed a big pot-luck lunch and social hour, then it was back to work. We realize that not everything we planted will thrive and turn the place into Sherwood Forest overnight! But we do hope that 75% will become established... and there is always next Spring to replant if need be. None of this could have happened without the big water tank local caretaker *Jim Kleinschmidt* will place on the west slope of the Oasis, keep filled with water from his deep well and supply the drip irrigation system until plants get established, which will take years for some of the trees. What a guy! Birders are also very grateful to: *Rose Cronk*, Woodlin School Superintendent, a horticultural expert who tirelessly gathered all the supplies and energetically led the group by her example. *Noe Marymore*, a habitat specialist with RMBO and NRCS, who gave us needed professional input. Landowner *Johnny Miller *and other Lions like Ken Cronk. *Tom Thompson*, pastor at the Howard Methodist Church at Last Chance, the effective community leader who helped us all get together in the first place. (Pardon me if I left someone's name out inadvertently). The project could not have happened without a generous grant from the DFO and checks from over 15 birders and tour groups to defray the cost of materials. We are close to our goal of $1,500 now. And finally, watch for an article about the history, birds and people of Last Chance in this month's *Colorado Birds*, the CFO quarterly. *Birders who participated were: Chuck Hundertmark, Tom Wilberding, Edie Israel, Kevin Corwin, Betsy Shaw, Doug Kibbe, Lisa Edward, Maggie Boswell, Tina Jones, Gwen Moore and Paul Slingsby ** (examples of Lynne Hull's work can be seen at http://www.google.com/search?q=lynne+hull+eco+artisthl=entbm=ischtbo=usource=univsa=Xei=zNhhUeOYApG6qQGPpIGoBwved=0CEsQsAQbiw=1989bih=1228 -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] LITTLE GULL continues at Lake Meredith, Crowley County at 7 PM
Cheryl Teuton phoned to report that this great (though Little) gull, was seen again at dusk by her, Dan Brooke, Duane Nelson and Stan Oswald. Good luck if you plan to drive down to look for it Monday! Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Re: Tomorrow
Please send me some details about where you plan to go, when you will return, etc, so I can make an informed choice about going. I have not heard. Maybe I missed the memo. Many thanks, Joe On Thu, Apr 18, 2013 at 7:36 PM, nert...@comcast.net wrote: Lets meet at DOW at 6:30. Norm -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Painted Redstart, wherefore art thou?
Imagine my shock when upon a second and more careful reading of the nice report from Rebecca Brackett, I happened to notice that this great sighting occurred on Saturday, April 20th. The best way for this to work out will be if we can get more detailed directions to the place the bird was seen. IF WE DO, then Vic Zerbi, ace birder in Glenwood Springs, is willing to motor for 30 minutes to the east and search for the bird, which just could be on the same branch of the same tree.. I will post immediately if that works out. Some of us might still drive over Wednesday, but with a less sanguine expectation of seeing this mega-rarity. Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Migration notes from Chatfield; Wilson's, Orange-crowned Warblers, et al. Douglas/Jeffco
David Dowell, Chris Rurik and I spent a pleasant four hours at Chatfield SP this morning. At the Plum Creek Delta in the chill morning air were 3 Marbled Godwits and 2 White-faced Ibis hunkered down sleeping, trying to stay warm. American Pipits numbered 30+. Two Turkey Vultures in a tree nearby looked like mourners at a Greek funeral and were far from any roost, having been put down by the storm. Out on the lake were a Common Loon (winter plumage) and a Clark's with the Western and Horned Grebes. Just arrived were a Wilson's Warbler upstream from Kingfisher Bridge, near the loop at the end of the paved path (Jeffco) and an Orange-crowned Warbler near the south end of the series of ponds west of there. We saw at least 4 Hermit Thrushes in the Park, as well as Tree and Barn Swallows and one Violet-green. Raptors were evident and we had at least 4 Ospreys, 4+ Sharpies, a Cooper's, plenty of Kestrels, an adult and a younger Bald Eagle and a distant Peregrine. I'd expect a lot of raptors passing by the Dino Ridge Hawk Watch site today. The lake was big on coots, small on ducks and gulls. At the footbridge over Plum Creek the Eastern Phoebe was calling, as per usual. It sang near what looked like a newly constructed nest, (i.e. not looking like last year's nest), about 15 feet up in a tree. Puzzling! It looked like a phoebe nest, but that seems highly unlikely, with the bridge structure affording nest sites nearby. I read that before humans put up buildings and bridges phoebes nested on cliffs. In trees, not so much. Some other species? I hope someone can explain this nest to me. Western and Mountain Bluebirds were everywhere in the Park, and at the model airplane field were Vesper Sparrows and a Savannah Sparrow with loads of Horned Larks. Nothing unusual. Each day seems to bring new birds. I'm glad that February is well behind us. Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Today at Chatfield SP
I birded for a while with Glenn Walbek, but also on my own at Chatfield. There was quite a spectacle in the snowstorm, with literally hundreds and hundreds of Vesper Sparrows, (total 1,000??) plenty of American Pipits, Robins and fewer bluebirds, mostly Mountain. There was a score or more of just arrived Spotted Sandpipers, and on the Marina Sandspit a Semipalmated Plover and a lone Western Sandpiper. I trekked in thru the willows at the Plum Creek Delta and saw only a little shoreline, as the lake is high. There were 5 Wilson's Phalarpes, a Western Willet, Long-billed Dowitcher and a FOS Sanderling, along with a score of Chipping Sparrows and a few Savannahs. Not much at the model airplane field. Along the road past the ponds just southwest of Kingfisher Bridge were tons of icterids, including Yellow-headed and Brewer's Blackbirds, Mountain Bluebirds, Robins, the same sparrows, pipits. Nothing rare, but as usual with spring storms, there were lots of birds to see, but it was hard on those birds. The weather may break this evening, then clear after another snowy night. Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Summer Tanager, Hooded Warbler, Poorwill, Peregrine at Melody Tempel Grove, Bent County
Dave Leatherman ran into some good birds and asked me to post them, as he is having temporary computer issues. I learned from Duane Nelson (who also saw these birds) that Mr. Tempel wanted to honor his deceased wife, Melody, by calling his magic canal-side woodlot, the Melody Tempel Grove. Dave saw the above birds there yesterday, mostly west of the county road. Mr. Tempel is very birder-friendly, allows off road parking, and we avoid parking near farm machinery at this busy place. Directions are on the CFO County Birding site: http://www.coloradocountybirding.com/county/bird_a_county.php?name=Bent Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Western Palm Warbler continues in Denver County
The Palm Warbler found and reported by Gary Witt this afternoon was not difficult to find again today at about 4:15 PM, right in the park he describes at 18th Street and Little Raven, along the South Platte riverbank. The bird was feeding between the large concrete power pillar and a storm drain that trickles into the river there. It was low in the shrubs and confiding, allowing for great photo ops. Too bad I did not remember to bring my camera. Thanks, Gary! Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] The Sewage Ponds of Phillips County and Other Mother’s Day Travel Ideas.
*The Sewage Ponds of Phillips County and Other Mother’s Day Travel Ideas.* Why does Mother’s Day occur at the peak of Spring Migration? This must have been the idea of some deranged member of Congress. (Excuse the redundancy). Sure, many if not most of us birders love our moms, and are just fine with honoring them, but why not in February, when one is less likely to miss a warbler? Birders have lamented the inconvenient calendric placement of Mom’s Day ever since John James Audubon dumped Mrs. Audubon one May 13th to go afield. Here is a proposal to celebrate Mother’s Day in style and still have a shot at seeing great birds the very same day. I propose a modest solution - take Mom to Phillips County for a Mother's Day excursion she will forever cherish! Your older brother, Mr. Fancy Pants and your bossy “Big Sis” might have been taking Mom to the Bahamas, Paris or Hawaii, but I'll bet they never were thoughtful enough to guide Mother to such a gem-like destination. Be it Haxtun or Holyoke, the sewage ponds of Phillips County beckon! Make the best of it, take Mom on a grand tour of Phillips County, the jewel of the north-eastern plains, a thrill for her AND a birding opportunity for you. I would consider this gesture generous, not selfish, because let's face it, every Mother's Day until now has not been warbler-centric, but has been all about her! Pack up your “bird-mobile,” dust off your spare pair of bins, head northeast from almost anywhere in our state and after a quick four to twelve hour drive - presto, you're there. Whether over the decades Mom has become a seasoned birder or remains a novice, Phillips County will reveal its avian treasures to the sharp-eyed. As a warm-up to spotting the avifauna, why not start with a meal in the cuisine capital, downtown Holyoke? There snuggled together on a single block are truly savory international houses of fine dining - not only gourmet standard American style, but Chinese, Mexican, Sub, Donut Shop and Convenience Store flavors. Then how about shopping for a Mother’s Day card and some gifts on cosmopolitan Interocean Avenue? The Deaver Hardware Store has a sidewalk display of colorful hanging floral baskets. Or let Mom go inside and have her pick of Mother's Day gifts from the enticing 75% off” rack. She'll be surprised at the selection - items she won’t find at Nordstrom’s where your sister takes her. And at the Haxtun Super, there are special Mom's Day sales on Skoal and Copenhagen for her everyday needs, Carhartt coveralls in denim, canvas and camo and for her garden, 25 lbs of steer manure for $9.99 (bagged) or for as low as $1.99, bag it yourself. And now let’s go birding! I’d guess that Mom's Phillips County bird list is pretty low. Be sure to have a brand-new notebook, a county checklist and a writing implement. She can't miss Eurasian Collared Doves, Horned Larks are ubiquitous and Swainson's Hawks can be seen without much trouble. Tick ‘em off! (Swainson's Warblers can be more difficult). If she is squeamish about odiferous emanations from the famed sewage ponds, assure her that the repulsive fragrances are just not going to be a problem, due to their location across the road from the Farfal Brothers' Feed Lot, whose fumes will overpower anything the ponds can throw up at you. And it's not just those little lakes that offer magic. Good migrants can be found along County Road 14 and in the famed migrant traps of Paoli and Amherst. (Check for feeders, as there used to be some before 1992). Next it’s you and Mom strolling arm and arm through the dense kochia weeds to reach Frenchman’s Creek Wildlife Area. What? It’s bone dry? No ducks! No shorebirds! Oh, well., that’s birding. There’s always a chance to troll the desolate grid of gravel roads northwest of Holyoke for Loggerhead Shrike and kingbirds. That may induce a short nap, which folks Mom’s age will relish. But the excitement must come to an end. As evening falls, and you wend your way home, be patient with your dear Mother. She will want to relive the details of how intense were her labor pains, how numerous were the diapers she changed, and how her hopes and aspirations for your development as a person of character and wage earner were repeatedly dashed, through no fault of her own. But let it all go in one ear and out someplace else while you mentally play back the buoyant songs of the Western Meadowlark, remember the wide-open spaces, feel the high winds and remember the rare ducks floating along - on the sewage ponds of Phillips County. Joe Roller, Denver Reprinted despite popular demand from a 2009 posting. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Colorado Rare Bird Alert for Friday, May 10
Compiler: Joe Roller ** Date: May 10, 2013 email: rba AT cfobirds.org phone: 303-659-8750 ** ** This is the Colorado Rare Bird Alert for Thursday, May 10, 2013 @ 6:25 AM, sponsored by Denver Field Ornithologists and the Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory. If you are phoning in a message, you can skip the recording by pressing the star key (*) on your phone at any time. Please leave your name, phone number, detailed directions, including county and dates for each sighting.** ** It would be helpful if you would spell your last name. Highlight species include: (* denotes that there is new information on this* *** species in this report) ** ** Barrow's Goldeneye (Eagle) GLOSSY IBIS (Bent) Broad-winged Hawk (Boulder, Huerfano, Larimer, Prowers) Black-bellied Plover (Weld) Whimbrel (Weld) Ruby-throated Hummingbird (Prowers) Red-bellied Woodpecker (Fremont) Gray Flycatcher (*Boulder, *Jefferson) GRAY-CHEEKED THRUSH (Baca, Prowers) Bohemian Waxwing (Clear Creek, Jefferson) Northern Waterthrush (*Boulder) Blue-winged Warbler (Prowers) Tennessee Warbler (Jefferson, *Boulder) Virginia's Warbler (*Jefferson) Black-throated Blue Warbler (Baca) Black-throated Gray Warbler (Bent, Jefferson) Blackburnian Warbler (LaPlata) Yellow-throated Warbler (Baca) Palm Warbler (Baca, Denver) Blackpoll Warbler (Baca, Prowers, Jefferson) Black and White Warbler (Baca, Bent, Boulder) Nashville Warbler (*Bent, Larimer, Prowers, *Boulder) Northern Parula (Prowers) Hooded Warbler (Bent) Townsend's Warbler (Denver, Pueblo)) Black-throated Sparrow (Fremont) Fox Sparrow (Jefferson) Harris's Sparrow (Boulder, Fremont) GOLDEN-CROWNED SPARROW (Jefferson) SCARLET TANAGER (Las Animas) Rose-breasted Grosbeak (Prowers) Rusty Blackbird (Yuma) ** ** ** *BACA COUNTY:* --At Two Buttes on May 4, Kellner reports Yellow-throated Warbler, Black-throated Blue Warbler, 2 Black-and-White Warblers and a Blackpoll Warbler. --On May 5 at Two Buttes, 2 Palm Warblers, Blackpoll Warbler, GRAY-CHEEKED THRUSH, Yellow-throated Warbler and Black and White Warbler. ** ** *BENT COUNTY:* --Leatherman reports a Summer Tanager and Hooded Warbler at the Melody Tempel Grove on May 2. Both continue on May 4. --On May 5, Jones reports a GLOSSY IBIS at the intersection of county road JJ and County road 16. --On May 5, the Rawinski's report a Nashville Warbler at Tempel Grove. --On May 7, Nelson reports a male Black-throated Gray Warbler in Ft. Lyon State Wildlife Easement NW of Bent County Roads HH and 16 and a Black-and-White Warbler at Van's Grove. --On May 7, Piombino reports 1 or 2 Harris's Sparrows at her feeder on St. Vrain Road West of Hygiene. ** ** *BOULDER COUNTY:* --On May 4, Hansley reports a Broad-winged Hawk at the North Open Space. This open space is accessed from K. Helart Park off of Monarch St. and is north of So. Boulder Rd. --On May 8 Mlodinow reports these birds at Golden Ponds in Longmont: Nashville and Black-and-white Warblers. --On May 8, Dowell reports a singing Nashville Warbler from near the South Mesa Trailhead. --On May 8, Dowell reports a Northern Waterthrush at Golden Ponds in Longmont. --On May 9, Kingswood reports a Tennessee Warbler seen in mid-morning along the White Cliffs Trail, near the bridge over Boulder Creek. --On May 9, Miller reports a Northern Waterthrush at Twin Lakes, along the ditch, east of the green pipe. --On May 9, Guarente reports a Gray Flycatcher, present for a few days near an office building northwest of the intersection of Valmont and Foothills Parkway. ** ** *CLEAR CREEK COUNTY:* --On May 6, Kaempfer reports a flock of Bohemian Waxwings in Empire. ** ** *DENVER COUNTY:* --On May 7, Witt reports a Palm Warbler (Western) just northwest of the intersection of Little Raven Street and 18th Street. --On May 6, Rurik found a Townsend's Warbler near the parking area at Berkley Park. ** ** *EAGLE COUNTY:* --On May 5, Filby reported 6 Barrow's Goldeneye still at Spring Park Reservoir but saw the last 2 heading away on May 7. ** ** *FREMONT COUNTY:* --On May 5, Moss reports 2 adult Harris's Sparrows on the east side of Canyon City. They were at the horse boarding farm on MacKenzie Ave adjacent to the RR tracks on the southwest side. --On May 5, Hinds reports a Green Heron at Holcim Wetlands. --On May 6, Rooney reports a Red-bellied Woodpecker at Penrose at a suet feeder. ** ** *HUERFANO COUNTY:* --On May 5 at Lathrop SP, the Rawinski's report a Broad-winged Hawk. ** ** *JEFFERSON COUNTY:* --The GOLDEN-CROWNED SPARROW at Red Rocks Trading Post, first reported by Henwood on October 26, was seen again on May 2 by Henwood. --On May 2, Henwood reported that the Slate-colored Fox Sparrow continues at the Red Rocks Trading Post. --On May 5, Arnold
[cobirds] Colorado Rare Bird Alert for Saturday, May 11, updated at 8:50 PM on 5/10
Compiler: Joe Roller ** Date: Report for May 11, 2013 email: rba AT cfobirds.org phone: 303-659-8750 ** ** This is the Colorado Rare Bird Alert for Saturday, May 11, 2013, updated at 8:50 PM on May 10, sponsored by Denver Field Ornithologists and the Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory. If you are phoning in a message, you can skip the recording by pressing the star key (*) on your phone at any time. Please leave your name, phone number, detailed directions, including county and dates for each sighting.** ** It would be helpful if you would spell your last name. Highlight species include: (* denotes that there is new information on this* *** species in this report) Green Heron (Fremont) Broad-winged Hawk (Huerfano, Prowers) Black-bellied Plover (Weld) Shorebird assortment: Semipalmated Plover, Willet Marbled Godwit (*Weld) Whimbrel (Weld) Ruby-throated Hummingbird (Prowers) Red-bellied Woodpecker (Fremont) Gray Flycatcher (*Boulder, Jefferson) Scissor-tailed Flycatcher (*Washington) Veery (*El Paso/Pueblo) GRAY-CHEEKED THRUSH (Baca, Prowers, *El Paso/Pueblo) Bohemian Waxwing (Clear Creek, Jefferson) Northern Waterthrush (Boulder, *Jefferson, *Washington) Blue-winged Warbler (Prowers) Tennessee Warbler (Jefferson, Boulder) Virginia's Warbler (Jefferson) Black-throated Blue Warbler (Baca) Black-throated Gray Warbler (Bent, Jefferson) Blackburnian Warbler (LaPlata) Yellow-throated Warbler (Baca) Palm Warbler (Baca, Denver, *Jefferson) Blackpoll Warbler (Baca, Prowers, Jefferson) Black-and-White Warbler (Baca, Bent, Boulder, *Washington) Nashville Warbler (Bent, Larimer, Prowers, Boulder) Northern Parula (Prowers) Hooded Warbler (Bent) Townsend's Warbler (Denver, Pueblo)) Black-throated Sparrow (Fremont) Fox Sparrow (Jefferson) Harris's Sparrow (Boulder, Fremont) GOLDEN-CROWNED SPARROW (Jefferson) SCARLET TANAGER (Las Animas) Northern Cardinal (*Jefferson) Rose-breasted Grosbeak (Prowers, *Grand) Rusty Blackbird (Yuma) ** ** ** *BACA COUNTY:* --On May 5 at Two Buttes, 2 Palm Warblers, Blackpoll Warbler, GRAY-CHEEKED THRUSH, Yellow-throated Warbler and Black and White Warbler. ** ** *BENT COUNTY:* --On May 5, the Rawinski's report a Nashville Warbler at Tempel Grove. --On May 7, Nelson reports a male Black-throated Gray Warbler in Ft. Lyon State Wildlife Easement NW of Bent County Roads HH and 16 and a Black-and-White Warbler at Van's Grove. ** *BOULDER COUNTY:* ** --On May 8 Mlodinow reports these birds at Golden Ponds in Longmont: Nashville and Black-and-white Warblers. --On May 8, Dowell reports a singing Nashville Warbler from near the South Mesa Trailhead. --On May 8, Dowell reports a Northern Waterthrush at Golden Ponds in Longmont. --On May 7, Piombino reports 1 or 2 Harris's Sparrows at her feeder on St. Vrain Road West of Hygiene. --On May 9, Kingswood reports a Tennessee Warbler seen in mid-morning along the White Cliffs Trail, near the bridge over Boulder Creek. --On May 9, Miller reports a Northern Waterthrush at Twin Lakes, along the ditch, east of the green pipe. --On May 10th, Chuck Hundertmark and Ted Floyd saw a Cassin's Vireo along Boulder Creek, upstream a ways from the 75th Street Bridge. --On May 9, Guarente reports a Gray Flycatcher, present for a few days near an office building northwest of the intersection of Valmont and Foothills Parkway. It continues on May 10 at the north end of Center Green Drive near shipping containers.. ** ** *CLEAR CREEK COUNTY:* --On May 6, Kaempfer reports a flock of Bohemian Waxwings in Empire. ** ** *DENVER COUNTY:* --On May 7, Witt reports a Palm Warbler (Western) just northwest of the intersection of Little Raven Street and 18th Street. --On May 6, Rurik found a Townsend's Warbler near the parking area at Berkley Park. *--EL PASO/PUEBLO:* --On May 10, Brown reports ...several thrushes of four species, Swainson's, Hermit, a (first of season) VEERY, and a FOS GRAY-CHEEKED THRUSH at Chico Basin Ranch. (fee area and worth it). ** ** *FREMONT COUNTY:* --On May 5, Moss reports 2 adult Harris's Sparrows on the east side of Canyon City. They were at the horse boarding farm on MacKenzie Ave adjacent to the RR tracks on the southwest side. --On May 5, Hinds reports a Green Heron at Holcim Wetlands. --On May 6, Rooney reports a Red-bellied Woodpecker at Penrose at a suet feeder. *--GRAND COUNTY:* --On May 8, Luke reports that a Rose-breasted Grosbeak graced the feeder at 914 Eagle Street in Kremmling. ** ** *HUERFANO COUNTY:* --On May 5 at Lathrop SP, the Rawinski's report a Broad-winged Hawk. ** ** *JEFFERSON COUNTY:* --On May 5, Arnold reports a Bohemian Waxwing in the creek on the north side of Coal Mine about halfway between Pierce and Yukon. --On May 5, Chavez reported a Tennessee Warbler at Belmar Park. --On May
[cobirds] Crow Valley, Lower Latham, Stewarts Pond
Weld County: Went birding with a friend and at Crow Valley we saw a Western Palm Warbler in the education area (northwest corner) a Tennessee Warbler near the large group picnic structure in the dry creek bed. Murphy's Pasture in Pawnee Grasslands - small flocks of Lark Buntings, VERY few McCown's in the hour+ we were there. Lower Latham, 3 alternate plumage Black-bellied Plovers, in large pond south of the road. Stewarts Pond (Weld cty road 37 and 46): variety of shorebirds including 8 Red-necked Phalaropes (FOS). Spring may be here on the calendar, but some of the expected migrants and residents don't seem to have heard about it yet in northeast CO. Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Colorado Rare Bird Alert for Sunday, May 12
Compiler: Joe Roller ** Date: Report for May 12, 2013 email: rba AT cfobirds.org phone: 303-659-8750 ** ** This is the Colorado Rare Bird Alert for Sunday, May 12, 2013, updated at 6:40 AM, sponsored by the Denver Field Ornithologists and the Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory. If you are phoning in a message, you can skip the recording by pressing the star key (*) on your phone at any time. Please leave your name, phone number, detailed directions, including county and dates for each sighting.** ** It would be helpful if you would spell your last name. Highlight species include: (* denotes that there is new and often accurate information on this species in this report) Broad-winged Hawk (Prowers) Black-bellied Plover (*Weld) Shorebird assortment: Semipalmated Plover, Willet, Marbled Godwit (Weld) Whimbrel (Weld) Ruby-throated Hummingbird (Prowers) Red-bellied Woodpecker (Fremont) Gray Flycatcher (Boulder, Jefferson) Scissor-tailed Flycatcher (Washington) Yellow-throated Vireo (*Bent) Cassin's Vireo (*Bent, Boulder, *Jefferson) Philadelphia Vireo (*Baca) Veery (El Paso/Pueblo) GRAY-CHEEKED THRUSH (*Baca, Prowers, *El Paso, El Paso/Pueblo, *Weld) Bohemian Waxwing (Clear Creek, Jefferson) Ovenbird (*Baca) Northern Waterthrush (Boulder, *El Paso, Jefferson, Washington) Blackpoll Warbler (*Baca, *Bent, *El Paso Prowers, *Jefferson) Black-and-White Warbler (Baca, Bent, Boulder, Washington) Blue-winged Warbler (Prowers) Tennessee Warbler (*Baca, Jefferson, Larimer) Nashvile Warbler (*Bent, Boulder, *Fremont, Larimer, Prowers) Virginia's Warbler (Jefferson) Hooded Warbler (Bent) CAPE MAY WARBLER (*Baca) Northern Parula (Baca, Prowers) BLACKBURNIAN (Bent, La Plata) Black-throated Blue Warbler (*Baca) Black-throated Gray Warbler (Bent, Jefferson) BLACK-THROATED GREEN (*Baca) Yellow-throated Warbler (Baca) Palm Warbler (Baca, *Bent, Denver, Jefferson, *Weld) Townsend's Warbler (Denver, Pueblo) Black-throated Sparrow (Fremont) Fox Sparrow (Jefferson) White-throated Sparrow (*Douglas/Jefferson) Harris's Sparrow (Boulder, Fremont) GOLDEN-CROWNED SPARROW (Jefferson) Summer Tanager (*El Paso, *Baca) SCARLET TANAGER (Las Animas) Northern Cardinal (Jefferson) Rose-breasted Grosbeak (Prowers, Grand) Rusty Blackbird (Yuma) ** ** ** *BACA COUNTY:* On May 11, Walbek reports these birds from Two Buttes, seen May 10 and 11: Cape May Warbler Black-throated Green Warbler Black-throated Blue Warbler Blackpoll Warbler Tennessee Warbler Nashville Warbler Northern Parula Ovenbird Black-and-White Warbler American Redstart McGillivray's Warbler Virginia's Warbler Northern Waterthrush Philadelphia Vireo Gray-cheeked Thrush Rose-breasted Grosbeak Summer Tanager Rufous-crowned Sparrow *BENT COUNTY:* --On May 7, Nelson reports a male Black-throated Gray Warbler in Ft. Lyon State Wildlife Easement NW of Bent County Roads HH and 16 and a Black-and-White Warbler at Van's Grove. --On May 10, Mlodinow reports these birds from Bent County: Blackburnian Warbler at Karney SWA north of John Martin Reservoir along Fort Lyons Canal, Black-and-white Warbler at Van's Grove, Western Palm Warbler at John Martin Reservoir, Black-and-white Warbler at Hasty Lake Campground, Blackpoll Warbler in the town of McClave, Yellow-throated Vireo along Bent County Road 34 about 1/2 mile north of CO 196, Rose-breasted Grosbeak at Bent County Roads 35 and PP, Gray-cheeked Thrush, 2 Nashville Warblers, a Cassin's Vireo, Dusky Flycatcher, and 2 Common Poorwill at Melody Tempel Grove. *BOULDER COUNTY:* ** --On May 8 Mlodinow reports these birds at Golden Ponds in Longmont: Nashville and Black-and-white Warblers. --On May 8, Dowell reports a singing Nashville Warbler from near the South Mesa Trailhead. --On May 8, Dowell reports a Northern Waterthrush at Golden Ponds in Longmont. --On May 7, Piombino reports 1 or 2 Harris's Sparrows at her feeder on St. Vrain Road West of Hygiene. --On May 9, Kingswood reports a Tennessee Warbler seen in mid-morning along the White Cliffs Trail, near the bridge over Boulder Creek. --On May 9, Miller reports a Northern Waterthrush at Twin Lakes, along the ditch, east of the green pipe. --On May 10, Chuck Hundertmark and Ted Floyd saw a Cassin's Vireo along Boulder Creek, upstream a ways from the 75th Street Bridge. --On May 9, Guarente reports a Gray Flycatcher, present for a few days near an office building northwest of the intersection of Valmont and Foothills Parkway. It continues on May 10 at the north end of Center Green Drive near shipping containers.. ** ** *CLEAR CREEK COUNTY:* --On May 6, Kaempfer reports a flock of Bohemian Waxwings in Empire. ** ** *DENVER COUNTY:* --On May 7, Witt reports a Palm Warbler (Western) just northwest of the intersection of Little Raven Street and 18th Street. --On May 6, Rurik found a Townsend's Warbler near
[cobirds] Report from Fort Logan Cemetery, SW Denver. NEGATIVE NEWS on Cerulean Warbler
Brandon Percival received a message today (Sunday) that a birder friend had seen a male CERULEAN WARBLER with other migrant warblers on Friday, May 10, at a SW Denver cemetery. I went over to Fort Logan Cemetery at about 4 PM and stayed an hour. It was peaceful. The neat array of identical, white, military headstones was undisturbed by rare warblers. I did see a few Yellow-rumps and a Virginia's Warbler, but nothing else of note. The habitat was not very lush and did not appear enticing enough to support a flock of warblers for any longer than it takes to blow taps. (No disrespect intended). These are hallowed grounds. Directions, if you care to try Monday AM: From Hampden Avenue in southwest Denver drive south on South Sheridan, past a couple of minor entrances and turn left (east) at the main entrance gates marked by a large concrete sign with gold letters saying Fort Logan National Cemetery. Drive a short distance and park at the first building, the visitor's center. Here you will find a map of the place. You will find yourself on the shore of the upper of two large linear lakes. This upper lake is manicured, without any underbrush or unkempt spots and was not birdy today. Walking east, staying on the north shore, you will drop down to the lower lake. On its north side there is better habitat, with some shrubs under tall trees. That is where I found the warblers (maybe 6 in all), 3 chickadees, two Western Grebes. Did I mention not much? If you have time on your hands consider following the watercourse below the lower dam as it meanders and flows through historically productive warbler habitat, down through Bear Creek Park to its junction with Bear Creek. (You might want to hike back to your car and drive to that park before you leave the cemetery). If you find a Cerulean Warbler, please phone me at 303 204-0828 and I will post it on Cobirds at once from my speeding vehicle. Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Colorado Rare Bird Alert for Monday, May 13, early report; complete update mid-day today
Compiler: Joe Roller ** Date: Report for Monday, May 13, 2013 email: rba AT cfobirds.org phone: 303-659-8750 PLEASE NOTE THAT A MORE COMPLETE UPDATE WILL BE POSTED AT MID-DAY TODAY. ** ** This is the Colorado Rare Bird Alert for Monday, May 13, 2013, partially updated at 0600. sponsored by the Denver Field Ornithologists and the Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory. If you are phoning in a message, you can skip the recording by pressing the star key (*) on your phone at any time. Please leave your name, phone number, detailed directions, including county and dates for each sighting.** ** It would be helpful if you would spell your last name. Highlight species include: (* denotes that there is new and often accurate information on this species in this report) Broad-winged Hawk (Prowers) Black-bellied Plover (Weld) Shorebird assortment: Semipalmated Plover, Willet, Marbled Godwit (Weld) Whimbrel (Weld) Ruby-throated Hummingbird (Prowers) Gray Flycatcher (Boulder, *Jefferson) Scissor-tailed Flycatcher (Washington) Yellow-throated Vireo (Bent) Cassin's Vireo (*Bent, Boulder, Jefferson) Philadelphia Vireo (Baca) Veery (El Paso/Pueblo) GRAY-CHEEKED THRUSH (Baca, Prowers, El Paso, El Paso/Pueblo, Weld) Ovenbird (Baca) Northern Waterthrush (Boulder, El Paso, Jefferson, Washington) Blackpoll Warbler (Baca, Bent, El Paso Prowers, Jefferson) Black-and-White Warbler (Baca, Bent, Boulder, Washington) Blue-winged Warbler (Prowers) Tennessee Warbler (Baca, Jefferson, Larimer) Nashvile Warbler (Bent, Boulder, Fremont, Larimer, Prowers) Virginia's Warbler (Jefferson) Hooded Warbler (Bent) CAPE MAY WARBLER (Baca) *CERULEAN WARBLER (Weld)* Northern Parula (Baca, Prowers) BLACKBURNIAN (Bent) Black-throated Blue Warbler (Baca) Black-throated Gray Warbler (Bent, Jefferson) BLACK-THROATED GREEN (Baca, *Boulder) Yellow-throated Warbler (Baca) Palm Warbler (Baca, Bent, Denver, Jefferson, Weld) Townsend's Warbler (Pueblo) Black-throated Sparrow (Fremont) Fox Sparrow (Jefferson) White-throated Sparrow (Douglas/Jefferson) Harris's Sparrow (Boulder, Fremont) GOLDEN-CROWNED SPARROW (Jefferson) Summer Tanager (El Paso, Baca) SCARLET TANAGER (Las Animas) Northern Cardinal (Jefferson) Rose-breasted Grosbeak (Prowers, Grand) Rusty Blackbird (Yuma) ** ** ** *BACA COUNTY:* On May 11, Walbek reports these birds from Two Buttes, seen May 10 and 11: Cape May Warbler Black-throated Green Warbler Black-throated Blue Warbler Blackpoll Warbler Tennessee Warbler Nashville Warbler Northern Parula Ovenbird Black-and-White Warbler American Redstart McGillivray's Warbler Virginia's Warbler Northern Waterthrush Palm Warbler Yellow-throated Warbler Philadelphia Vireo Gray-cheeked Thrush Rose-breasted Grosbeak Summer Tanager Rufous-crowned Sparrow *BENT COUNTY:* --On May 7, Nelson reports a male Black-throated Gray Warbler in Ft. Lyon State Wildlife Easement NW of Bent County Roads HH and 16 and a Black-and-White Warbler at Van's Grove. --On May 10, Mlodinow reports these birds from Bent County: Blackburnian Warbler at Karney SWA north of John Martin Reservoir along Fort Lyons Canal, Black-and-white Warbler at Van's Grove, Western Palm Warbler at John Martin Reservoir, Black-and-white Warbler at Hasty Lake Campground, Blackpoll Warbler in the town of McClave, Yellow-throated Vireo along Bent County Road 34 about 1/2 mile north of CO 196, Rose-breasted Grosbeak at Bent County Roads 35 and PP, Gray-cheeked Thrush, 2 Nashville Warblers, a Cassin's Vireo, Dusky Flycatcher, and 2 Common Poorwill at Melody Tempel Grove. *BOULDER COUNTY:* ** --On May 8 Mlodinow reports these birds at Golden Ponds in Longmont: Nashville and Black-and-white Warblers. --On May 8, Dowell reports a singing Nashville Warbler from near the South Mesa Trailhead. --On May 8, Dowell reports a Northern Waterthrush at Golden Ponds in Longmont. --On May 7, Piombino reports 1 or 2 Harris's Sparrows at her feeder on St. Vrain Road West of Hygiene. --On May 9, Kingswood reports a Tennessee Warbler seen in mid-morning along the White Cliffs Trail, near the bridge over Boulder Creek. --On May 9, Miller reports a Northern Waterthrush at Twin Lakes, along the ditch, east of the green pipe. --On May 10, Chuck Hundertmark and Ted Floyd saw a Cassin's Vireo along Boulder Creek, upstream a ways from the 75th Street Bridge. --On May 9, Guarente reports a Gray Flycatcher, present for a few days near an office building northwest of the intersection of Valmont and Foothills Parkway. It continues on May 10 at the north end of Center Green Drive near shipping containers.. --On May 12, Nunes reports a a singing male BLACK-THROATED GREEN WARBLER in the Ponderosa Pines at the corner of Tandra East Moorhead Circle. From Table Mesa, turn south on Tantra, go down the street until you reach the forced right hand turn onto E Moorhead. The pine trees
[cobirds] Colorado Rare Bird Alert for Monday, May 13, at 1 PM
Compiler: Joe Roller ** Date: Report for Monday, May 13, 2013, 1 PM email: rba AT cfobirds.org phone: 303-659-8750 ** ** This is the Colorado Rare Bird Alert for Monday, May 13, 2013, updated at 1 PM, sponsored by the Denver Field Ornithologists and the Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory. If you are phoning in a message, you can skip the recording by pressing the star key (*) on your phone at any time. Please leave your name, phone number, detailed directions, including county and dates for each sighting.** ** It would be helpful if you would spell your last name. Highlight species include: (* denotes that there is new and often accurate information on this species in this report) Glossy Ibis (*Jefferson) Broad-winged Hawk (Prowers) Black-bellied Plover (Weld) Shorebird assortment: Semipalmated Plover, Willet, Marbled Godwit (Weld) Whimbrel (Weld) Ruby-throated Hummingbird (Prowers) Gray Flycatcher (Boulder, Jefferson) Scissor-tailed Flycatcher (Washington) Yellow-throated Vireo (Baca, Bent, *Prowers) Cassin's Vireo (*Bent, Boulder, Jefferson) Philadelphia Vireo (Baca) Veery (El Paso/Pueblo) GRAY-CHEEKED THRUSH (Baca, Prowers, El Paso, El Paso/Pueblo, Weld) Ovenbird (Baca) Northern Waterthrush (Boulder, El Paso, Jefferson, Washington) Blackpoll Warbler (Baca, Bent, El Paso Prowers, Jefferson) Black-and-White Warbler (Baca, Bent, Boulder, Washington) Blue-winged Warbler (Prowers) Tennessee Warbler (Baca, Jefferson, Larimer) Nashvile Warbler (Bent, Boulder, Fremont, Larimer, Prowers) Virginia's Warbler (Jefferson) Hooded Warbler (Bent) CAPE MAY WARBLER (Baca) CERULEAN WARBLER (*Weld) Northern Parula (Baca, Prowers) BLACKBURNIAN (Bent) Black-throated Blue Warbler (Baca) Black-throated Gray Warbler (Bent, Jefferson) BLACK-THROATED GREEN (Baca, Boulder) Palm Warbler (Baca, Bent, Denver, Jefferson, Weld, *Larimer) Townsend's Warbler (Pueblo) Black-throated Sparrow (Fremont) Fox Sparrow (Jefferson) White-throated Sparrow (Douglas/Jefferson) Harris's Sparrow (Boulder, Fremont) GOLDEN-CROWNED SPARROW (Jefferson) Summer Tanager (El Paso, Baca) SCARLET TANAGER (Las Animas) Northern Cardinal (Jefferson) Rose-breasted Grosbeak (Prowers, Grand, *Weld) Rusty Blackbird (Yuma) ** ** ** *BACA COUNTY:* On May 11, Walbek reports these birds from Two Buttes, seen May 10 and 11: Cape May Warbler Black-throated Green Warbler Black-throated Blue Warbler Blackpoll Warbler Tennessee Warbler Nashville Warbler Northern Parula Ovenbird Black-and-White Warbler American Redstart McGillivray's Warbler Virginia's Warbler Northern Waterthrush Palm Warbler Yellow-throated Warbler Philadelphia Vireo Gray-cheeked Thrush Rose-breasted Grosbeak Summer Tanager Rufous-crowned Sparrow *BENT COUNTY:* --On May 7, Nelson reports a male Black-throated Gray Warbler in Ft. Lyon State Wildlife Easement NW of Bent County Roads HH and 16 and a Black-and-White Warbler at Van's Grove. --On May 10, Mlodinow reports these birds from Bent County: Blackburnian Warbler at Karney SWA north of John Martin Reservoir along Fort Lyons Canal, Black-and-white Warbler at Van's Grove, Western Palm Warbler at John Martin Reservoir, Black-and-white Warbler at Hasty Lake Campground, Blackpoll Warbler in the town of McClave, Yellow-throated Vireo along Bent County Road 34 about 1/2 mile north of CO 196, Rose-breasted Grosbeak at Bent County Roads 35 and PP, Gray-cheeked Thrush, 2 Nashville Warblers, a Cassin's Vireo, Dusky Flycatcher, and 2 Common Poorwill at Melody Tempel Grove. *BOULDER COUNTY:* ** --On May 8 Mlodinow reports these birds at Golden Ponds in Longmont: Nashville and Black-and-white Warblers. --On May 8, Dowell reports a singing Nashville Warbler from near the South Mesa Trailhead. --On May 8, Dowell reports a Northern Waterthrush at Golden Ponds in Longmont. --On May 7, Piombino reports 1 or 2 Harris's Sparrows at her feeder on St. Vrain Road West of Hygiene. --On May 9, Kingswood reports a Tennessee Warbler seen in mid-morning along the White Cliffs Trail, near the bridge over Boulder Creek. --On May 9, Miller reports a Northern Waterthrush at Twin Lakes, along the ditch, east of the green pipe. --On May 10, Chuck Hundertmark and Ted Floyd saw a Cassin's Vireo along Boulder Creek, upstream a ways from the 75th Street Bridge. --On May 9, Guarente reports a Gray Flycatcher, present for a few days near an office building northwest of the intersection of Valmont and Foothills Parkway. It continues on May 10 at the north end of Center Green Drive near shipping containers.. --On May 12, Nunes reports a a singing male BLACK-THROATED GREEN WARBLER in the Ponderosa Pines at the corner of Tandra East Moorhead Circle. From Table Mesa, turn south on Tantra, go down the street until you reach the forced right hand turn onto E Moorhead. The pine trees are on your right. ** *DENVER COUNTY:* --On May 7, Witt reports
[cobirds] North Boulder Bobolinks are back!
Alan Bell asked me to post this message: Bobolinks were back this morning in the fields along Nimbus Road north of Spurgeon Reservoir. Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Colorado Rare Bird Alert for Tuesday, May 14
Compiler: Joe Roller ** Date: Report for Monday, May 14, 2013, updated at 6:25 AM** email: rba AT cfobirds.org phone: 303-659-8750 ** ** This is the Colorado Rare Bird Alert for Monday, May 14, 2013. sponsored by the Denver Field Ornithologists and the Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory. If you are phoning in a message, you can skip the recording by pressing the star key (*) on your phone at any time. Please leave your name, phone number, detailed directions, including county and dates for each sighting.** ** It would be helpful if you would spell your last name. Highlight species include: (* denotes that there is new and often accurate information on this species in this report) Glossy Ibis (*Jefferson) Broad-winged Hawk (Prowers) Black-bellied Plover (*Weld) Whimbrel (*Weld) Ruby-throated Hummingbird (Prowers) Gray Flycatcher (Boulder, Jefferson) Scissor-tailed Flycatcher (Washington) Yellow-throated Vireo (Baca, Bent, Prowers) Cassin's Vireo (*Bent, *Adams, Boulder, Jefferson) Philadelphia Vireo (Baca) Veery (El Paso/Pueblo) GRAY-CHEEKED THRUSH (Baca, Prowers, El Paso, El Paso/Pueblo, Weld) Ovenbird (Baca) Northern Waterthrush (Boulder, El Paso, Jefferson, Washington) Blackpoll Warbler (Baca, Bent, El Paso Prowers, Jefferson) Black-and-White Warbler (Baca, Bent, Boulder, Washington) Blue-winged Warbler (Prowers) Tennessee Warbler (Baca, Jefferson, Larimer, *Adams) Nashvile Warbler (Bent, Boulder, Fremont, Larimer, Prowers) Virginia's Warbler (Jefferson) Hooded Warbler (Bent) CAPE MAY WARBLER (Baca) CERULEAN WARBLER (*Weld) Northern Parula (Baca, Prowers, *El Paso) BLACKBURNIAN (Bent, *La Plata) Black-throated Blue Warbler (Baca) BLACK-THROATED GREEN (Baca, Boulder) Palm Warbler (Baca, Bent, Denver, Jefferson, Weld, *Larimer) Townsend's Warbler (Pueblo) Black-throated Sparrow (Fremont) Fox Sparrow (Jefferson) White-throated Sparrow (Douglas/Jefferson) Harris's Sparrow (Boulder, Fremont) GOLDEN-CROWNED SPARROW (Jefferson) Summer Tanager (El Paso, Baca) SCARLET TANAGER (Las Animas) Northern Cardinal (*Jefferson) Rose-breasted Grosbeak (Prowers, Grand, *Weld) *ADAMS COUNTY: * On May13, Breitsch reports a Tennessee Warbler and Cassin's Vireo. ** *BACA COUNTY:* On May 11, Walbek reports these birds from Two Buttes, seen May 10 and 11: Cape May Warbler Black-throated Green Warbler Black-throated Blue Warbler Blackpoll Warbler Tennessee Warbler Nashville Warbler Northern Parula Ovenbird Black-and-White Warbler American Redstart McGillivray's Warbler Virginia's Warbler Northern Waterthrush Palm Warbler Yellow-throated Warbler Philadelphia Vireo Gray-cheeked Thrush Rose-breasted Grosbeak Summer Tanager Rufous-crowned Sparrow *BENT COUNTY:* --On May 10, Mlodinow reports these birds from Bent County: Blackburnian Warbler at Karney SWA north of John Martin Reservoir along Fort Lyons Canal, Black-and-white Warbler at Van's Grove, Western Palm Warbler at John Martin Reservoir, Black-and-white Warbler at Hasty Lake Campground, Blackpoll Warbler in the town of McClave, Yellow-throated Vireo along Bent County Road 34 about 1/2 mile north of CO 196, Rose-breasted Grosbeak at Bent County Roads 35 and PP, Gray-cheeked Thrush, 2 Nashville Warblers, a Cassin's Vireo, Dusky Flycatcher, and 2 Common Poorwill at Melody Tempel Grove. *BOULDER COUNTY:* ** --On May 8 Mlodinow reports these birds at Golden Ponds in Longmont: Nashville and Black-and-white Warblers. --On May 8, Dowell reports a singing Nashville Warbler from near the South Mesa Trailhead. --On May 8, Dowell reports a Northern Waterthrush at Golden Ponds in Longmont. --On May 7, Piombino reports 1 or 2 Harris's Sparrows at her feeder on St. Vrain Road West of Hygiene. --On May 9, Kingswood reports a Tennessee Warbler seen in mid-morning along the White Cliffs Trail, near the bridge over Boulder Creek. --On May 9, Miller reports a Northern Waterthrush at Twin Lakes, along the ditch, east of the green pipe. --On May 10, Chuck Hundertmark and Ted Floyd saw a Cassin's Vireo along Boulder Creek, upstream a ways from the 75th Street Bridge. --On May 9, Guarente reports a Gray Flycatcher, present for a few days near an office building northwest of the intersection of Valmont and Foothills Parkway. It continues on May 10 at the north end of Center Green Drive near shipping containers.. --On May 12, Nunes reports a a singing male BLACK-THROATED GREEN WARBLER in the Ponderosa Pines at the corner of Tandra East Moorhead Circle. From Table Mesa, turn south on Tantra, go down the street until you reach the forced right hand turn onto E Moorhead. The pine trees are on your right. ** *DENVER COUNTY:* --On May 7, Witt reports a Palm Warbler (Western) just northwest of the intersection of Little Raven Street and 18th Street. --On May 11, Henwood reports a Bobolink in the SW corner of Marston Reservoir. *DOUGLAS/JEFFERSON COUNTIES:* ON May
[cobirds] RFI: Last Chance rarities and migration news
Birders, The local folks near Last Chance and Lindon, CO are getting more interested in what birds are coming thru Last Chance, especially novelties and rarities. Please take a moment to send me information about your Last Chance sightings and/or post them on Cobirds, I will summarize them for inclusion in the local weekly newsletter, View from Lindon capably written by intrepid reporter Lois Scott. For example, there was quite a buzz about Tammy and Ira Sanders' report of a Scissor-tailed Flycatcher near Last Chance a few days ago. Thanks, Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Migration note: Lark Buntings near Watkins
Carole Larsen asked me to post this migration note. ( Forwarded from her by Joe Roller, Denver). We saw a male Lark Bunting in breeding plumage on a fence Sunday May 12th at two different times – 3:00 pm and 7:00 pm. Was on the west side of Manilla Rd between I-70 and Colfax, south of the farm on the corner of Manilla Rd. and Colfax; this is near Watkins, in southern Adams County. Carol Larsen** Home: 303-256-4457 Cell: 303-519-5671 _ ( ' / ) ) // -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Piping Plover in Holyoke, Phillips County
Roger Linfield called to mention that on his annual spring pilgrimage to Phillips County today he saw a PIPING PLOVER near the airfield, which is just east and a little south of Holyoke. It was on a concrete pad upon which some rainwater had formed a little puddle. This is a first Phillips County record, I believe. He's having a good shorebird day (as of his 7:20 AM call), with sightings of Semipalmated Plover and Black-necked Stilt as well! Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
Re: [cobirds] Re: COUNTIES PLEASE
Yes, when reporting a sighting it is wise to include the county name in the subject line. Very helpful. And I also agree with Steve Stachowiak The implication of a quick phoned-in note is, Stay tuned for more details, I am busy collecting a DNA sample. We can help each other by reading such a post from somewhere out in the Boondocks, recognizing where the call is coming from and perhaps sending a quick note to Cobirds explaining more details about how to get there. An example: Congrats to Big Bob Birder and his cousin, Marybelle, for finding Barred Owls at Maggie's Farm! For those of you unfamiliar with Maggies's Farm, that freeholding is in Cheyenne County. Detailed directions to Maggie's Farm (where no one works no more) are copied here from the CFO County Birding website: *Picturesque Maggie's Farm has been a Cheyenne County birding hot spot for over six months now. It has been * *good for eastern passerines and the habitat looks great for Tufted Titmouse and who knows, even Barred Owl is possible.* *Directions:* *Drive 5.22 miles east of Cheyenne Wells on Highway 40, past the airfield, then watch for 44 Road. Maggie's Farm * *(fee area) is on the southeast corner of Highway 40 and 44 Road.* *DeLorme page 103.* ** Please do not play a Barred Owl tape or handle the nestlings. Good birding, Full name, city, and state, here. submitted by: RIchard Joseph Roller, Denver, Colorado. On Wed, May 22, 2013 at 12:30 AM, Steve Stachowiak Melody Egge waxwi...@q.com wrote: I would hope that there is still some leniency granted for those posts that may be lacking in correct protocol that are made on the fly from a cell phone in a remote location with bad coverage in order to get the word out on a good bird, even if those pesky four letter banding codes are used. ** ** Good Birding, Steve Stachowiak Highlands Ranch, CO *From:* cobirds@googlegroups.com [mailto:cobirds@googlegroups.com] *On Behalf Of *Mark Peterson *Sent:* Tuesday, May 21, 2013 11:59 AM *To:* cobirds@googlegroups.com *Subject:* [cobirds] Re: COUNTIES PLEASE ** ** I would also add, there are a number of volunteers who try and extract information from COBirds for CFO's quarterly journal and for ABA's North American Birds. These volunteers are regional and have specific counties they cover. It makes it much easier on them if they can search COBirds by the county as searching by a city name is really not feasible. You may occasionally have reports for multiple counties, if you at least list all the counties in the body of the email they will get found by a search. ** ** ** ** Mark Peterson Colorado Springs On Tuesday, May 21, 2013 11:26:51 AM UTC-6, Todd Deininger wrote: Make sure when posting a sighting that you include the county of the sighting in the subject line. There are 64 counties in Colorado and county listing is popular among COBirders. Others are only interested in their local patch, so a quick scan of the subject line in all that is needed. Thanks all and keep the posts coming. And remember all emails need a complete signature. ( Full name, City, and State) -- Todd Deininger List Manager Longmont, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/82078fd0-4f0a-4594-9cc5-7ca23293febb%40googlegroups.com?hl=en-US . For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/000501ce56b5%24c9986480%245cc92d80%24%40q.com?hl=en-US . For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/CAJpZcUDqRiseZdKB2S%2Bp5rmG1L9OyhxpsH7WNGn8DvZQfanQDg%40mail.gmail.com?hl=en-US. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Black-bellied Plover, Great Egret at Cherry Creek State Park, Arapahoe, June 2
Late May reports of Black-bellied Plover are unusual (except for this year with its retarded spring migration), and early June is late. There was one BB Plover in breeding plumage on the austral mudflats at Cherry Creek reservoir this morning. I saw a few avocets and killdeer, but no other shorebirds there A Great Egret was reported from Cottonwood Creek by Bob Rozinski. There were no terns or other items of interest. Joe Roller, aka Richard Joseph Roller, Denver, City and County of -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/CAJpZcUBAjn6UZwZDNOvJ820gV%2B8q61QXCNpF8hAqWwzUJZ1x4A%40mail.gmail.com?hl=en-US. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] YELLOW-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON in Holyoke, Phillips County
Cole Wild called at 2:15 PM, today, Sunday, May 2nd, to report a Yellow-crowned Night-Heron in the bed of Frenchman's Creek, just below the Lions' Fishing Hole in eastern Holyoke, Phillips County, Colorado. There are no previous records of this night-heron for Phillips County, according to the CFO County Birding Website. Nearby were White-rumped Sandpipers (10), Semipalmated Sandpipers (2), and a Black-necked Stilt, also a rarity in that most attractive of Colorado's many fine counties. Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/CAJpZcUAfHiiu6wpexsUi-Rvv1QCBCWgU1mb59b%2B%3DqNpVJLztBA%40mail.gmail.com?hl=en-US. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] YELLOW-BELLIED FLYCATCHER, etc, in Holyoke, Phillips County
Cole Wild phoned me again, this time to report a Yellow-bellied Flycatcher, Gray-cheeked Thrush, Veery, Rose-breasted Grosbeak and American Redstart, as his productive day in metropolitan Holyoke continues. This suite of goodies was also in the bed of mighty Frenchman's Creek, farther upstream, near the east end of Akron Street, ie, just downstream from the railroad tracks. Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/CAJpZcUAiqQG142xc6n%2BFOE-3dYCrh1a0wKEg0FnNTuZxS6Tn3g%40mail.gmail.com?hl=en-US. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Eastern Meadowlark seen again today (6/11) at Beech Open Space, Boulder County
At 5:50 AM today the Eastern Meadowlark was repeatedly singing the Eastern song from atop the conspicuous, lonely tree on the ridge south of the Beech Open Space picnic structure. It then flew down to a telephone pole near that structure and was there when I left an hour later. Directions were in Chris Nunes's (many thanks to Chris!!!) post to Cobirds yesterday. Basically north of Boulder on Hway 36, turn off at Neva Road, park near the locked gate to the Beech space and walk in. Joe Roller, Denver -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups Colorado Birds group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/CAJpZcUCoqQmMdk_APu8r0-tMMkQSDCwfdj4dRd2dBiC31YArqg%40mail.gmail.com?hl=en-US. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/groups/opt_out.
[cobirds] Colorado Rare Bird Alert for Monday, August 5, 2013
Compiler: Joe Roller Date August 5, 2013 email: rba AT cobirds.org phone: 303-659-8750 This is the Colorado Rare Bird Alert for Monday, August 5, 2013 sponsored by the Denver Field Ornithologists and the Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory. If you are phoning in a message, you can skip the recording by pressing the star key (*) on your phone at any time. Please leave your name, phone number, detailed directions including county, and dates for each sighting. It would be helpful if you would spell your last name. Highlight species include (* indicates new information on this species in this report): MOTTLED DUCK (Morgan) WHITE IBIS (Alamosa) Snowy Plover (Alamosa, Bent) Piping Plover (Bent) RED KNOT (Bent) LAUGHING GULL (Weld) Lesser Black-backed Gull (Weld) White-winged Dove (Lamar) Red-bellied Woodpecker (Lamar) Black Phoebe (Fremont, Montrose) Eastern Phoebe (Boulder) Cassin's Kingbird (Weld) Purple Martin (Delta, Ouray, Rio Blanco) Black-throated Sparrow (Montrose) Northern Cardinal (Lamar) Indigo Bunting (Washington) ALAMOSA COUNTY: --A WHITE IBIS was reported by Brian Harmon about a mile north of the golf course on North River Road in Alamosa at 10:30 am on July 26. Later it was seen about two miles from this location. The Ibis was not seen on July 27. On July 28, Neldner reported that the WHITE IBIS was seen again in the afternoon. On July 30, Burt reported that the WHITE IBIS was seen at Alamosa Ranch. For help in locating the bird call Brian Harmon at 719-927-1584. --6 Snowy Plovers were reported by Neldner at Blanca Wetlands on July 28. BENT COUNTY: --A RED KNOT was reported by Duane Nelson on July 27 on the extreme west end of John Martin Reservoir. From the main north side entrance east of CR 20 on CR JJ head south and east on a confusing network of two tracks. When you arrive at the cliffs, head as far east as possible. Drop down the cliffs, and head south along the lake shore to where the rivulets of the Arkansas River enter the lake. This will be a walk of less than one-half mile. This mud is not too bad but slippery in places. There are also young Piping Plovers and Snowy Plovers present. Nelson reported that the RED KNOT was seen again on July 28 at the same location but the Piping Plovers have departed. BOULDER COUNTY: --An Eastern Phoebe was reported by Tumasonis at the Heatherwood Trail in Boulder where the footbridge extends over an outlet on July 30. DELTA COUNTY: --Purple Martins were reported by Garrison on Stevens Gulch Rd at MM 13 north of Paonia on July 30. FREMONT COUNTY: --Black Phoebes were reported by Moss along the Canon City Riverwalk a few hundred yards W of Sell's Parking lot on August 1. An adult was feeding 2 fledglings and there was a juvenile bird. Moss refound the Black Phoebe family on August 2. MONTROSE COUNTY: --A Black Phoebe was reported by Dexter in the greater Nucla area on August 1. --A hatch year and adult Black-throated Sparrow were reported by Dexter in Tuttle Draw NE of Nucla on August 1. MORGAN COUNTY: --A MOTTLED DUCK was reported by Mlodinow at Andrick Ponds on a large pond on east side of CR 2 on July 28. On July 30, Hopper reported the MOTTLED DUCK at Andrick SWA. It has not been seen since early morning on July 31, despite the efforts of many. OURAY COUNTY: --Purple Martins were reported by Zerbi at Ridgway on top of CR 5 on July 28. PROWERS COUNTY: --White-winged Doves were reported by Leatherman in residential sections of Lamar during period 21 - 28 July, 2013. --3 Northern Cardinals (1m, 2 f) were reported by Leatherman at Lamar Community College Wood during the period 21 - 28 July. --Red-bellied Woodpeckers were heard in Willow Creek Park and Willow Creek Subdivision in Lamar during the period 21 - 28 July. RIO BLANCO COUNTY: --Two juv Purple Martins were reported by McConnell at Flattops along the New Castle at Buford Road (FR 245) on July 27. They were at the 2nd (North) entrance to West Elk Creek Ranch. On July 28, McConnell reported ten Purple Martins at the same spot. WASHINGTON COUNTY: --An Indigo Bunting was reported by Mlodinow at Prewitt at the Inlet Canal on July 31. WELD COUNTY: --6 Cassin's Kingbirds were reported by Mlodinow at Crow Valley Campground on July 28. On July 31, Mlodinow reported Cassin's Kingbirds at Crow Valley Campground. --A 1-st cyc Lesser Black-backed Gull was reported by Mlodinow at the wild animal reserve about 3 miles south of Banner Lakes SWA on August 3. --At LUNA Reservoir a juv LAUGHING GULL was reported by Mlodinow on August 3. DFO FIELD TRIPS The DFO Field Trip for Saturday, August 10 will be to Gregory Canyon led by Paul Slingsby (303-422-3728). Meet the leader at I-70 and Ward Road Park-n-Ride at 0600 or you can meet the group at Gregory Canyon at 0700. There is a fee per car for non-Boulder residents and very limited parking at the trailhead, so please contact leader to arrange carpooling. The Gregory Canyon trail is steep and rocky with some loose gravel. We will walk slowly