[nysbirds-l] When a grade of F feels more like a B+
On this past Tuesday and then again on Wednesday, I traveled from Riverhead, L.I. to the Mt. Loretto Unique Area, S.I., with Tom Moran on the 1st trip, and by myself, on the 2nd - putting ~ 400 miles on the car (thank God it's a Prius) and spending ~ 10 hours on the road, plus ~ 8 hours at the site. This effort provided a quick look at a Bell's Vireo (that probably was a young, "runt" White-eyed Vireo) on Wednesday. Since this had been our target bird, some might have given themselves a grade of F...as in futility ! While I haven't spoken to Tom re: the grade he would give the approximate 8 hours spent on Tuesday without even seeing the y/r/WEVI, his view might be tarnished by being picked up right after his last teaching class, and while he was able to take off his tie, he couldn't change out of his long, dress pants and good shoes ! What made this adventure into a B+ for me were the following: 1) Other notable species seen or heard: A.Bittern; Black Vulture; Bald Eagle; C. Nighthawk; Traill's type Flycatcher, Least Flycatcher. 2) Old friends seen and spoken to. 3) New friends made 4) Wonderful weather. 5) Beautiful habitat 6) The small, light lawn chair that was brought by Pat Lindsay (because of her experience on Tuesday) but not used by her on Wednesday - thereby, making it available to the "wimps" in the crowd...like me ! Cheers, Bob -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Two Clay-colored Sparrows in Central Park's Loch
I went out looking for the Clay-colored sparrow I saw yesterday in the Compost Area of Central Park and turned up empty. I tracked a Chipping Sparrow for about 45 min. or so to the Green Bench, with another Birder in tow hoping she might get a lifer out of this cat and mouse game, only to realize that it was in fact an immature Chipping Sparrow. I tried the Compost Area a second time which did produced a Lincoln's Sparrow but no CCSP. After all that I figured I should just go and check the area of the Loch where it was last seen- in the the vicinity of the first Rustic Bridge that overlooks a short waterfall. Not a few minutes upon arriving did I hear an unfamiliar chip note and contact/flight call as a fairly small brownish blur flashed into a tree above me, and then another just a few seconds later. It turned out that there were at least two Clay-colored Sparrows in Central Park this evening. They both gave me long close views, always staying close to the first Rustic Bridge, from about 6 to 7 P.M. A birder named Martin Carney came through and was able to get some good views of at least one of the sparrows who were constantly being flushed by a phalanx of joggers and the occasional un-leased dog. Also of interest, is the presence of a male Eastern Red Bat in the Loch. I, along with one other observer that I know of, have seen him drinking and feeding up and down the stream. Keep'em up! Nadir Souirgi -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
American white pelican previously reported still present in East Pond as of 5:00PM today. Dozens of greater yellowlegs, but few other shorebirds. Yellow-crowned night herons, a little blue heron, and a flyover peregrine were nice treats. Same for several cloudless sulfur butterflies. -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
Re:[nysbirds-l] Pike's Beach & Cupsogue Co. Park
I too was at Cupsogue and Pike's Beach today, I assume later than Sy et al (~12:45-3:30, all but the last 10 min. at Cupsogue). I took the same route out to the flats (RV road, bay beach). I first found 2 MARBLED GODWITS (MAGO) out on the large sand bar in the middle of Moriches Inlet (north end, east side) and a scope was definitely necessary. Good numbers of Oystercatchers (30+), Black-bellied Plovers and Sanderlings were also out there. After a while I moved on towards the main channel that drains the flats, following that as far east as I could. I found shorebird numbers and diversity were very low. Other than 20-25 more B-b Plovers the only other species seen were Lesser Yellowlegs (10 at the south end of the flats) and a few Semipalmated Plovers. Out at the far north end of the flats was a mixed group of Black Skimmers, Royal and Forster's Terns, and a few Ring-billed and Laughing Gulls. A CASPIAN TERN, presumably the same bird Sy and company had at Pike's, eventually joined them after putting on a nice show, fishing over the flats and a pond in the marsh to the east. The tide was rising at this point and when I turned to check on the position of the godwits I saw that they'd left the sand bar and were now closer, on the western edge of the flats. They had been joined by a third godwit and a WHIMBREL. The latter eventually separated itself and moved south along the bay beach while the MAGOs gradually worked their way east. I was able to get excellent scope views and decent photos of all, from <100 ft. On the walk back to the parking lot on the RV road I discovered a night-heron roost in the pines--their croaking gave them away. There were at least a dozen birds, mostly Black-crowned, but also 2 juvenile Yellow-crowneds. The Pike's Beach spit had ~25 Royal Terns. Photos at: http://www.flickr.com/photos/jgluth_brb/ -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] RBA Buffalo Bird Report 13 Sep 2012
- RBA * New York * Buffalo * 09/13/2012 * NYBU1209.13 - Birds mentioned --- Please submit reports to dsu...@buffaloornithologicalsociety.org --- WESTERN KINGBIRD WESTERN SANDPIPER WHIMBREL BLACK VULTURE Bl.-cr. Night-Heron Northern Shoveler Redhead Common Merganser Ruddy Duck Turkey Vulture Ruddy Turnstone Semipalm. Sandpiper Least Sandpiper Pectoral Sandpiper Red-necked Phalarope Caspian Tern Yellow-b. Flycatcher N. Rough-w. Swallow Winter Wren Ruby-cr. Kinglet Bl.-gr. Gnatcatcher Gray-cheeked Thrush Philadelphia Vireo Tennessee Warbler Nashville Warbler Northern Parula Yellow Warbler Chestnut-s. Warbler Magnolia Warbler Bl.-thr. Bl. Warbler Bl.-thr. Green Warb. Bay-breasted Warbler Blackpoll Warbler Bl. and w. Warbler American Redstart Northern Waterthrush Common Yellowthroat Hooded Warbler Wilson's Warbler Canada Warbler Scarlet Tanager Rose-br. Grosbeak White-thr. Sparrow Purple Finch - Transcript Hotline: Buffalo Bird Report at the Buffalo Museum of Science Date: 09/13/2012 Number: 716-896-1271 To Report:Same Compiler: David F. Suggs Coverage: Western New York and adjacent Ontario Website: www.BuffaloOrnithologicalSociety.org Thursday, September 13, 2012 The Buffalo Bird Report is a service provided by your Buffalo Museum of Science and the Buffalo Ornithological Society. To contact the Science Museum, call 896-5200. Highlights of reports received September 6 through September 13 from the Niagara Frontier Region include WESTERN KINGBIRD, WESTERN SANDPIPER, WHIMBREL and BLACK VULTURE. September 10, only, in the Lake Ontario Plains, a WESTERN KINGBIRD on Lakeshore Road in the Orleans County Town of Yates, one-half mile west of Marshall Road. Also on the 10th, a WESTERN SANDPIPER at Tifft Nature Preserve in Buffalo. And a migrant UPLAND SANDPIPER was heard over Buffalo on the 9th. September 8, prior to a passing storm front, 4 WHIMBRELS in flight over the Small Boat Harbor on the Buffalo waterfront. The single WHIMBREL photographed at Dunkirk Harbor last week, was actually one of four WHIMBRELS in the harbor, behind the Chadwick Bay Marina. In the Village of Lewiston, September 9, 3 BLACK VULTURES among a roost of TURKEY VULTURES at Route 18F and Mohawk Street, near the Lewiston Docks. A RED-NECKED PHALAROPE continues at the Batavia Waste Water Plant, still present on the 9th, with RUDDY TURNSTONE, PECTORAL SANDPIPER, SEMIPALM. SANDPIPER and LEAST SANDPIPER. Also, numbers of NORTHERN SHOVELERS and RUDDY DUCKS, with abundant SWALLOWS, primarily N. ROUGH-W. SWALLOWS. Warblers this week - a combined list of 17 species at Amherst State Park, plus YELLOW-B. FLYCATCHER, PHILADELPHIA VIREO, WINTER WREN, RUBY-CR. KINGLET, BL.-GR. GNATCATCHER, GRAY-CHEEKED THRUSH, SCARLET TANAGER, WHITE-THR. SPARROW, ROSE-BR. GROSBEAK and PURPLE FINCH. At Goat Island, in Niagara Falls, New York, twelve warbler species. Also this week, on the Black Rock Canal in Buffalo, 2 REDHEADS, 2 COMMON MERGANSERS, 5 CASPIAN TERNS and 30 BL.- CR. NIGHT-HERONS. The Bird Report will be updated Thursday evening, September 20. Please call in your sightings by noon Thursday. You may report sightings after the tone. Thank you for calling and reporting. - End Transcript -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] More on the vireo
Hi All, This is just part of an email conversation Dick Veit and I had regarding the Vireo. I've attached a link to a picassa web album with photos Dick took, which may help with understanding our conversation. https://picasaweb.google.com/107960158037771512851/September132012# cheers, tom brown Although I do think it's a WEVI, there is much about it that still strikes me as odd. IN looking at photos 16 and 20 the bird is a bit confusing to me. It doesn't seem to have the enough yellow around the eyes, and the lores, although yellow, seem quite muted for a white-eyed. I've banded several white-eyes recently, and even the juvs have fairly dramatic spectacles, which I can pick out with my eyes 8-10 feet away before extracting them from a net. The bird in the photos don't show a very white chin, I've found that wevi's do have a pretty white chin, and although I know it can vary, the wingbars are pretty broad on wevi's; . I don't see any of those features in those photos. When I look at photo 26, the yellow does look more pronounced, but still not as much as I'd expect (or have been seeing) in wevi's (even in the HY's). The chin, although brighter than the other photos, is still very gray looking to me, and in this photo the overall jizz of the bird looks more bell's like--that's a very long tail for a wevi in my opinion (looks very gnatcatcher like). just my 3 cents/ tb On 09/13/12, Richard Veit wrote: the pale greenish wash extending to shoulders seem to indicate white-eyed rather than bells Tshrike19 tshrik...@aol.com -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
Re: [nysbirds-l] Question re. Hudwits at Montezuma
I was there this morning and did not find them, nor did several other birders I talked to. A single Avocet remained and the Cattle Egret was at Benning Marsh. Drew Weber Liverpool, NY nemesisbird.com On Thu, Sep 13, 2012 at 5:00 PM, Anthony Collerton wrote: > Did anyone look for/see the Hudsonian Godwits today? > > Sent from my iPhone > > -- > > NYSbirds-L List Info: > http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME > http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES > http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm > > ARCHIVES: > 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html > 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L > 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html > > Please submit your observations to eBird: > http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ > > -- > -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Question re. Hudwits at Montezuma
Did anyone look for/see the Hudsonian Godwits today? Sent from my iPhone -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Purple Finches - Wading River (Suffolk)
At about 2:00 PM, there were 7 Purple Finches resting and bathing along a small, brackish ephemeral area on the West Loop Trail at the Edward J. & Dorothy C. Kempf Preserve in Wading River. The preserve is owned by The Nature Conservancy and is located along the west side of Sound Rd. Lots of good common warbler activity also noted in the vicinity of the Purples. Best, Derek Rogers Sayville http://www.flickr.com/photos/39025168@N07/ -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Central Park Rape Suspect Apprehended By Police
FYI http://awalkintheparknyc.blogspot.com/2012/09/central-park-rape-suspect-apprehended.html -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Pike's Beach & Cupsogue Co. Park
Pike's Beach and Cupsogue County Park 13 September Joe Giunta, Debbie Martin and I (Sy Schiff) parked in the bay side parking lot of Pike's Beach and walked out to the bay. Directly across on the bar were 12 ROYAL TERNS and a CASPIAN TERN among the gulls. The Caspian flew off to the west as we looked. It was not subsequently relocated. At Cupsogue, we parked by the road to the trailer campgrounds and walked the sand road to the path leading to the bay. This is longer, but a lot easier than wading through the march. Directly across on the front of the bar were 3 MARBLED GODWIT among the gulls, shorebirds and cormorants. We then moved a way to our right (east) along the edge to a spot that appeared appropriate. There in a small area of the marsh, we called up 2 SEASIDE SPARROWS and 2 SALTMARSH SPARROWS. Except for the sparrows which came fairly close, the other birds required a fairly high powered scope even though they are pretty large birds. Sy -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] BirdCallsRadio next guests | Dave Magpiong and Dr. J. Drew Lanham
Birders et al, BirdCallsRadio next guests are Dave Magpiong and Dr. J. Drew Lanham this Sunday (Sept 16) from 1-2 p.m. EST on 1490AM WGCH & WORLDWIDE internet Streaming. http://birdcallsradio.com/2012/07/26/kim-todd-next-guest-on-birdcallsradio/ Cheers, Mardi Dickinson Norwalk, CT http://kymrygroup.com/ -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
Re: [nysbirds-l] Bell's Vireo There may have been 2 birds
I believe there is overlap in size between Bell's and White-eyed Vireo (4 3/4"-5"/ 12-13 cm), the Bell's being at the smaller end of the spectrum and the White-eyed at the larger, but there is broad overlap. The California subspecies of the Bell's (the "Least Bell's" Vireo bellii pusillus) would seem to be the smallest, but also the less likely to stray here. Hutton's Vireo is the one I have heard compared most often to kinglets, and indeed, it is quite small (10-12 cm). I haven't seen this bird, but I would agree that the photo appears to be a young White-eyed. Bell's I have seen in AZ & CO appeared to be quite gray and muted in appearance, reminiscent of a small Warbling Vireo. Apparently, the easternmost birds are also the brightest and largest, so the most likely to stray here would be the most similar to White-eyed. Having not seen this individual however, my 2 cents isn't especially helpful... Interesting puzzle! Gabriel WillowNYC Audubon --- On Thu, 9/13/12, Richard Veit wrote: From: Richard Veit Subject: Re: [nysbirds-l] Bell's Vireo There may have been 2 birds To: "Elizabeth D Poole" , "NYSBIRDS-L@cornell.edu" Date: Thursday, September 13, 2012, 11:53 AM yes this bird is substantially smaller and scrawnier looking than the several white-eyed vireos that are also present. i suspect it is literally a "runt" white-eyed vireo. Richard R. Veit Professor Biology Department CSI/CUNY 2800 Victory Boulevard Staten Island, NY 10314 718-982-4144 Fax 718-982-3852 From: Elizabeth D Poole To: NYSBIRDS-L@cornell.edu Sent: Thursday, September 13, 2012 11:42 AM Subject: Re: [nysbirds-l] Bell's Vireo There may have been 2 birds Has anyone noted the relative size of this bird or birds? Bells Vireo is substantially smaller than the other vireos and has been likened to or mistaken for a Ruby Crowned Kinglet (it's larger than a kinglet). -Original Message- From: Cotingas To: NYSBIRDS-L Sent: Thu, Sep 13, 2012 10:31 am Subject: [nysbirds-l] Bell's Vireo There may have been 2 birds Greetings to all, At approximately 8:45 a bird was located by a number of birders deep within the Virginia Creeper tangles in that dead tree .I had some real difficulty despite patience on the part of Isaac Grant and others. This is where the bird in question had first been seen. After a number of observers pointed out the bird, I finally had a good look. Then another (?) bird flew very close to where we stood and we observed it for some time in an elm sapling very close to the trail. That bird, was not as yellow -some wash but not bright and I did watch some very distinct tail movement and the bird did flick and raise its tail a number of times. Given the fact that tail movement is a behavior of the Bell's Vireo, I do think there were in fact 2 different birds. When the "second bird" that I had just mentioned left the tangle, the light and of course the view was so much better. In conclusion is tail movement a conclusive and helpful aid in the identification of the vireo? I do in fact think there were two different birds. Howard Fischer -- NYSbirds-L List Info: Welcome and Basics Rules and Information Subscribe, Configuration and Leave Archives: The Mail Archive Surfbirds BirdingOnThe.Net Please submit your observations to eBird! -- -- NYSbirds-L List Info: Welcome and Basics Rules and Information Subscribe, Configuration and Leave Archives: The Mail Archive Surfbirds BirdingOnThe.Net Please submit your observations to eBird! -- -- NYSbirds-L List Info: Welcome and Basics Rules and Information Subscribe, Configuration and Leave Archives: The Mail Archive Surfbirds BirdingOnThe.Net Please submit your observations to eBird! -- -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] C.P. Clay-colored Sparrow.
A Clay-colored Sparrow was found yesterday by James Knox in Central Parks North End . It was first seen in the Loch mixed in with a flock of house sparrows at around 3p.m. I later relocated the bird, still mixed in with the house sparrows an hour and a half later in the NW corner of the Compost Area. The CCSP was seen again by,Tom Pearlman back in the Loch at around 7AM this morning in the vacinity of the first Rustic Bridge. This time the sparrow was seen foraging alone. Anyone trying for the CCSP Should check all the surrounding areas （i.e. Green Bench, Grassy Knoll, etc.）suitable to sparrows as it appears to be making the rounds a bit, with or without the company of other birds. In light of the rescent assult on a Central Park birder I would strongly advise anyone looking for this bird go in the company of others as many parts of the North End can be quite remote, even in broad daylight. Safe and happy birding, Nadir Souirgi -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
Re: [nysbirds-l] Bell's Vireo There may have been 2 birds
yes this bird is substantially smaller and scrawnier looking than the several white-eyed vireos that are also present. i suspect it is literally a "runt" white-eyed vireo. Richard R. Veit Professor Biology Department CSI/CUNY 2800 Victory Boulevard Staten Island, NY 10314 718-982-4144 Fax 718-982-3852 From: Elizabeth D Poole To: NYSBIRDS-L@cornell.edu Sent: Thursday, September 13, 2012 11:42 AM Subject: Re: [nysbirds-l] Bell's Vireo There may have been 2 birds Has anyone noted the relative size of this bird or birds? Bells Vireo is substantially smaller than the other vireos and has been likened to or mistaken for a Ruby Crowned Kinglet (it's larger than a kinglet). -Original Message- From: Cotingas To: NYSBIRDS-L Sent: Thu, Sep 13, 2012 10:31 am Subject: [nysbirds-l] Bell's Vireo There may have been 2 birds Greetings to all, At approximately 8:45 a bird was located by a number of birders deep within the Virginia Creeper tangles in that dead tree .I had some real difficulty despite patience on the part of Isaac Grant and others. This is where the bird in question had first been seen. After a number of observers pointed out the bird, I finally had a good look. Then another (?) bird flew very close to where we stood and we observed it for some time in an elm sapling very close to the trail. That bird, was not as yellow -some wash but not bright and I did watch some very distinct tail movement and the bird did flick and raise its tail a number of times. Given the fact that tail movement is a behavior of the Bell's Vireo, I do think there were in fact 2 different birds. When the "second bird" that I had just mentioned left the tangle, the light and of course the view was so much better. In conclusion is tail movement a conclusive and helpful aid in the identification of the vireo? I do in fact think there were two different birds. Howard Fischer -- NYSbirds-L List Info: Welcome and Basics Rules and Information Subscribe, Configuration and Leave Archives: The Mail Archive Surfbirds BirdingOnThe.Net Please submit your observations to eBird! -- -- NYSbirds-L List Info: Welcome and Basics Rules and Information Subscribe, Configuration and Leave Archives: The Mail Archive Surfbirds BirdingOnThe.Net Please submit your observations to eBird! -- -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
Re: [nysbirds-l] Bell's Vireo There may have been 2 birds
Were photos taken of the second bird? Unless pics of an unambiguous Bell's Vireo are obtained I think that Occam's razor should be applied, that is, that the simplest explanation is likely the correct one. In this case I think the simplest explanation is that there is a juvenile White-eyed Vireo in a plumage most of us aren't used to which led to a misidentification. I think that Dick Veit's photos from when he originally found the bird would be very helpful. Does anyone know where they can be found? If those images show a bird that looks like the White-eyed Vireo then I think this whole question can be answered because I find it highly unlikely that a Bell's Vireo would happen to show up in the exact location that a White-eyed Vireo was misidentified as a Bell's Vireo. Anyway, that's my two cents and I have appreciated this opportunity to delve deeply into vireo identification. I have learned a lot. Good Birding, Corey Finger http://1birds.com From: Elizabeth D Poole To: NYSBIRDS-L@cornell.edu Sent: Thursday, September 13, 2012 11:42 AM Subject: Re: [nysbirds-l] Bell's Vireo There may have been 2 birds Has anyone noted the relative size of this bird or birds? Bells Vireo is substantially smaller than the other vireos and has been likened to or mistaken for a Ruby Crowned Kinglet (it's larger than a kinglet). -Original Message- From: Cotingas To: NYSBIRDS-L Sent: Thu, Sep 13, 2012 10:31 am Subject: [nysbirds-l] Bell's Vireo There may have been 2 birds Greetings to all, At approximately 8:45 a bird was located by a number of birders deep within the Virginia Creeper tangles in that dead tree .I had some real difficulty despite patience on the part of Isaac Grant and others. This is where the bird in question had first been seen. After a number of observers pointed out the bird, I finally had a good look. Then another (?) bird flew very close to where we stood and we observed it for some time in an elm sapling very close to the trail. That bird, was not as yellow -some wash but not bright and I did watch some very distinct tail movement and the bird did flick and raise its tail a number of times. Given the fact that tail movement is a behavior of the Bell's Vireo, I do think there were in fact 2 different birds. When the "second bird" that I had just mentioned left the tangle, the light and of course the view was so much better. In conclusion is tail movement a conclusive and helpful aid in the identification of the vireo? I do in fact think there were two different birds. Howard Fischer -- NYSbirds-L List Info: Welcome and Basics Rules and Information Subscribe, Configuration and Leave Archives: The Mail Archive Surfbirds BirdingOnThe.Net Please submit your observations to eBird! -- -- NYSbirds-L List Info: Welcome and Basics Rules and Information Subscribe, Configuration and Leave Archives: The Mail Archive Surfbirds BirdingOnThe.Net Please submit your observations to eBird! -- -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
Re: [nysbirds-l] Bell's Vireo There may have been 2 birds
Has anyone noted the relative size of this bird or birds? Bells Vireo is substantially smaller than the other vireos and has been likened to or mistaken for a Ruby Crowned Kinglet (it's larger than a kinglet). -Original Message- From: Cotingas To: NYSBIRDS-L Sent: Thu, Sep 13, 2012 10:31 am Subject: [nysbirds-l] Bell's Vireo There may have been 2 birds Greetings to all, At approximately 8:45 a bird was located by a number of birders deep within the Virginia Creeper tangles in that dead tree .I had some real difficulty despite patience on the part of Isaac Grant and others. This is where the bird in question had first been seen. After a number of observers pointed out the bird, I finally had a good look. Then another (?) bird flew very close to where we stood and we observed it for some time in an elm sapling very close to the trail. That bird, was not as yellow -some wash but not bright and I did watch some very distinct tail movement and the bird did flick and raise its tail a number of times. Given the fact that tail movement is a behavior of the Bell's Vireo, I do think there were in fact 2 different birds. When the "second bird" that I had just mentioned left the tangle, the light and of course the view was so much better. In conclusion is tail movement a conclusive and helpful aid in the identification of the vireo? I do in fact think there were two different birds. Howard Fischer -- NYSbirds-L List Info: Welcome and Basics Rules and Information Subscribe, Configuration and Leave Archives: The Mail Archive Surfbirds BirdingOnThe.Net Please submit your observations to eBird! -- -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Bell's Vireo There may have been 2 birds
Greetings to all, At approximately 8:45 a bird was located by a number of birders deep within the Virginia Creeper tangles in that dead tree .I had some real difficulty despite patience on the part of Isaac Grant and others. This is where the bird in question had first been seen. After a number of observers pointed out the bird, I finally had a good look. Then another (?) bird flew very close to where we stood and we observed it for some time in an elm sapling very close to the trail. That bird, was not as yellow -some wash but not bright and I did watch some very distinct tail movement and the bird did flick and raise its tail a number of times. Given the fact that tail movement is a behavior of the Bell's Vireo, I do think there were in fact 2 different birds. When the "second bird" that I had just mentioned left the tangle, the light and of course the view was so much better. In conclusion is tail movement a conclusive and helpful aid in the identification of the vireo? I do in fact think there were two different birds. Howard Fischer -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] another immature White-eyed Vireo photo
taken in Virginia: http://www.projectnoah.org/spottings/12743457/fullscreen This is an interesting ID problem I was not aware of. Bob LewisSleepy Hollow NY -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
Re: [nysbirds-l] Bells Vireo--Second Thoughts
I'm a bit confused by the current discussion, so here is what I am wondering. Were there two birds present, a putative Bell's and a mischievous immature White-eyed? Or was there only one bird, a difficult to ID, immature White-eyed? Dick said he got some poor photos of the original bird. Have those been posted? Hugh On Thu, Sep 13, 2012 at 5:39 AM, Shaibal Mitra wrote: > I now think the bird I saw around mid-day yesterday was the same as the > bird seen and photographed earlier by Corey and Anthony and others, and I > think this bird is a White-eyed Vireo. Deb Allen obtained photos from the > mid-day observation, and these show a loral pattern more in line with WEVI > than Bell's--despite my and others' contrary impressions in the field. > > In retrospect, all but one of my pro-Bell's impressions (copied below) > involved subtle and quantitative distinctions assessed very briefly on a > small, active bird--factors conducive to error. The exception involves the > appearance of a dark trans-ocular, extending beyond the eye, which is > evident in the various photos, and which I still think is quite odd on a > WEVI. But even on this point, I should have known better. Way back in April > 1994, on the Dry Tortugas, I encountered a group of birders who had > identified a small vireo with a broken eye-ring as a Thick-billed Vireo. I > thought it looked like a White-eyed Vireo apart from its dark eye and > broken eye-ring, and my photos were important in correcting the > identification (in a process that played out over months, via US mail!). > > Anyway, my current thought is that there is a WEVI at Mt Loretto capable > of misleading even relatively experienced and wary observers. > > Shai Mitra > Bay Shore > > > > > From: bounce-64477220-3714...@list.cornell.edu [ > bounce-64477220-3714...@list.cornell.edu] on behalf of Shaibal Mitra [ > shaibal.mi...@csi.cuny.edu] > Sent: Wednesday, September 12, 2012 2:24 PM > To: NYSBIRDS-L > Subject: RE: [nysbirds-l] Bells Vireo - yes 12:45 > > Hi Will and all, > > I saw the bird reported at 12:45 today and feel confident that it was a > Bell's Vireo. The face pattern was quite plain, recalling Warbling Vireo or > Orange-crowned Warbler; the supercilium was thin and vague; a dark > transocular continued beyond the eye; and thin pale crescents were present > above and below the eye. Contrary to the condition in White-eyed Vireo, the > front part of the supercilium was narrow and the area directly behind the > eye was dark. Furthermore, the bird appeared long-tailed and very small > (even smaller bodied than White-eyed), and it lacked bright, discrete > patches of yellow on the flanks (it showed a pale and ill-defined yellowish > wash there). I don't know if photos of this individual were obtained. > > Dick Veit noted an immature White-eyed Vireo at this site yesterday, but > we did not see that bird today (to our knowledge). Most disconcertingly, > there was a House Wren present today that seemed able, to both my ear and > Sean Sime's, to reproduce a shockingly faithful version of Bell's Vireo > song (it sometimes sang more typical House Wren songs also). Perhaps this > bird has received some audio-training in Bell's Vireo vocalizations over > the past two days? > > I just looked at Anthony's photos and am very puzzled. The face pattern, > particularly the broad pale area between the bill and the eye, appears very > different from that of the bird I just saw. On the other hand, there are > aspects of these photos that seem at odds for White-eyed Vireo, too. > Without closer study (I have to go to class now), I'm just not sure of how > to interpret these photos. > > Shai Mitra > Bay Shore > > > > Out of respect for others and the environment, the College of Staten > Island is a 100% Tobacco-Free Campus. > > -- > > NYSbirds-L List Info: > http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME > http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES > http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm > > ARCHIVES: > 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html > 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L > 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html > > Please submit your observations to eBird: > http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ > > -- > > -- Hugh McGuinness Washington, D.C. -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] American White Pelican continues ...
... at Jamaica Bay, East Pond. Almost no (as in <12) shorebirds present. Sent from my iPhone -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
RE: [nysbirds-l] Bells Vireo--Second Thoughts
I now think the bird I saw around mid-day yesterday was the same as the bird seen and photographed earlier by Corey and Anthony and others, and I think this bird is a White-eyed Vireo. Deb Allen obtained photos from the mid-day observation, and these show a loral pattern more in line with WEVI than Bell's--despite my and others' contrary impressions in the field. In retrospect, all but one of my pro-Bell's impressions (copied below) involved subtle and quantitative distinctions assessed very briefly on a small, active bird--factors conducive to error. The exception involves the appearance of a dark trans-ocular, extending beyond the eye, which is evident in the various photos, and which I still think is quite odd on a WEVI. But even on this point, I should have known better. Way back in April 1994, on the Dry Tortugas, I encountered a group of birders who had identified a small vireo with a broken eye-ring as a Thick-billed Vireo. I thought it looked like a White-eyed Vireo apart from its dark eye and broken eye-ring, and my photos were important in correcting the identification (in a process that played out over months, via US mail!). Anyway, my current thought is that there is a WEVI at Mt Loretto capable of misleading even relatively experienced and wary observers. Shai Mitra Bay Shore From: bounce-64477220-3714...@list.cornell.edu [bounce-64477220-3714...@list.cornell.edu] on behalf of Shaibal Mitra [shaibal.mi...@csi.cuny.edu] Sent: Wednesday, September 12, 2012 2:24 PM To: NYSBIRDS-L Subject: RE: [nysbirds-l] Bells Vireo - yes 12:45 Hi Will and all, I saw the bird reported at 12:45 today and feel confident that it was a Bell's Vireo. The face pattern was quite plain, recalling Warbling Vireo or Orange-crowned Warbler; the supercilium was thin and vague; a dark transocular continued beyond the eye; and thin pale crescents were present above and below the eye. Contrary to the condition in White-eyed Vireo, the front part of the supercilium was narrow and the area directly behind the eye was dark. Furthermore, the bird appeared long-tailed and very small (even smaller bodied than White-eyed), and it lacked bright, discrete patches of yellow on the flanks (it showed a pale and ill-defined yellowish wash there). I don't know if photos of this individual were obtained. Dick Veit noted an immature White-eyed Vireo at this site yesterday, but we did not see that bird today (to our knowledge). Most disconcertingly, there was a House Wren present today that seemed able, to both my ear and Sean Sime's, to reproduce a shockingly faithful version of Bell's Vireo song (it sometimes sang more typical House Wren songs also). Perhaps this bird has received some audio-training in Bell's Vireo vocalizations over the past two days? I just looked at Anthony's photos and am very puzzled. The face pattern, particularly the broad pale area between the bill and the eye, appears very different from that of the bird I just saw. On the other hand, there are aspects of these photos that seem at odds for White-eyed Vireo, too. Without closer study (I have to go to class now), I'm just not sure of how to interpret these photos. Shai Mitra Bay Shore Out of respect for others and the environment, the College of Staten Island is a 100% Tobacco-Free Campus. -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
RE: [nysbirds-l] Bells Vireo--Second Thoughts
I now think the bird I saw around mid-day yesterday was the same as the bird seen and photographed earlier by Corey and Anthony and others, and I think this bird is a White-eyed Vireo. Deb Allen obtained photos from the mid-day observation, and these show a loral pattern more in line with WEVI than Bell's--despite my and others' contrary impressions in the field. In retrospect, all but one of my pro-Bell's impressions (copied below) involved subtle and quantitative distinctions assessed very briefly on a small, active bird--factors conducive to error. The exception involves the appearance of a dark trans-ocular, extending beyond the eye, which is evident in the various photos, and which I still think is quite odd on a WEVI. But even on this point, I should have known better. Way back in April 1994, on the Dry Tortugas, I encountered a group of birders who had identified a small vireo with a broken eye-ring as a Thick-billed Vireo. I thought it looked like a White-eyed Vireo apart from its dark eye and broken eye-ring, and my photos were important in correcting the identification (in a process that played out over months, via US mail!). Anyway, my current thought is that there is a WEVI at Mt Loretto capable of misleading even relatively experienced and wary observers. Shai Mitra Bay Shore From: bounce-64477220-3714...@list.cornell.edu [bounce-64477220-3714...@list.cornell.edu] on behalf of Shaibal Mitra [shaibal.mi...@csi.cuny.edu] Sent: Wednesday, September 12, 2012 2:24 PM To: NYSBIRDS-L Subject: RE: [nysbirds-l] Bells Vireo - yes 12:45 Hi Will and all, I saw the bird reported at 12:45 today and feel confident that it was a Bell's Vireo. The face pattern was quite plain, recalling Warbling Vireo or Orange-crowned Warbler; the supercilium was thin and vague; a dark transocular continued beyond the eye; and thin pale crescents were present above and below the eye. Contrary to the condition in White-eyed Vireo, the front part of the supercilium was narrow and the area directly behind the eye was dark. Furthermore, the bird appeared long-tailed and very small (even smaller bodied than White-eyed), and it lacked bright, discrete patches of yellow on the flanks (it showed a pale and ill-defined yellowish wash there). I don't know if photos of this individual were obtained. Dick Veit noted an immature White-eyed Vireo at this site yesterday, but we did not see that bird today (to our knowledge). Most disconcertingly, there was a House Wren present today that seemed able, to both my ear and Sean Sime's, to reproduce a shockingly faithful version of Bell's Vireo song (it sometimes sang more typical House Wren songs also). Perhaps this bird has received some audio-training in Bell's Vireo vocalizations over the past two days? I just looked at Anthony's photos and am very puzzled. The face pattern, particularly the broad pale area between the bill and the eye, appears very different from that of the bird I just saw. On the other hand, there are aspects of these photos that seem at odds for White-eyed Vireo, too. Without closer study (I have to go to class now), I'm just not sure of how to interpret these photos. Shai Mitra Bay Shore Out of respect for others and the environment, the College of Staten Island is a 100% Tobacco-Free Campus. -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] American White Pelican continues ...
... at Jamaica Bay, East Pond. Almost no (as in 12) shorebirds present. Sent from my iPhone -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
Re: [nysbirds-l] Bells Vireo--Second Thoughts
I'm a bit confused by the current discussion, so here is what I am wondering. Were there two birds present, a putative Bell's and a mischievous immature White-eyed? Or was there only one bird, a difficult to ID, immature White-eyed? Dick said he got some poor photos of the original bird. Have those been posted? Hugh On Thu, Sep 13, 2012 at 5:39 AM, Shaibal Mitra shaibal.mi...@csi.cuny.eduwrote: I now think the bird I saw around mid-day yesterday was the same as the bird seen and photographed earlier by Corey and Anthony and others, and I think this bird is a White-eyed Vireo. Deb Allen obtained photos from the mid-day observation, and these show a loral pattern more in line with WEVI than Bell's--despite my and others' contrary impressions in the field. In retrospect, all but one of my pro-Bell's impressions (copied below) involved subtle and quantitative distinctions assessed very briefly on a small, active bird--factors conducive to error. The exception involves the appearance of a dark trans-ocular, extending beyond the eye, which is evident in the various photos, and which I still think is quite odd on a WEVI. But even on this point, I should have known better. Way back in April 1994, on the Dry Tortugas, I encountered a group of birders who had identified a small vireo with a broken eye-ring as a Thick-billed Vireo. I thought it looked like a White-eyed Vireo apart from its dark eye and broken eye-ring, and my photos were important in correcting the identification (in a process that played out over months, via US mail!). Anyway, my current thought is that there is a WEVI at Mt Loretto capable of misleading even relatively experienced and wary observers. Shai Mitra Bay Shore From: bounce-64477220-3714...@list.cornell.edu [ bounce-64477220-3714...@list.cornell.edu] on behalf of Shaibal Mitra [ shaibal.mi...@csi.cuny.edu] Sent: Wednesday, September 12, 2012 2:24 PM To: NYSBIRDS-L Subject: RE: [nysbirds-l] Bells Vireo - yes 12:45 Hi Will and all, I saw the bird reported at 12:45 today and feel confident that it was a Bell's Vireo. The face pattern was quite plain, recalling Warbling Vireo or Orange-crowned Warbler; the supercilium was thin and vague; a dark transocular continued beyond the eye; and thin pale crescents were present above and below the eye. Contrary to the condition in White-eyed Vireo, the front part of the supercilium was narrow and the area directly behind the eye was dark. Furthermore, the bird appeared long-tailed and very small (even smaller bodied than White-eyed), and it lacked bright, discrete patches of yellow on the flanks (it showed a pale and ill-defined yellowish wash there). I don't know if photos of this individual were obtained. Dick Veit noted an immature White-eyed Vireo at this site yesterday, but we did not see that bird today (to our knowledge). Most disconcertingly, there was a House Wren present today that seemed able, to both my ear and Sean Sime's, to reproduce a shockingly faithful version of Bell's Vireo song (it sometimes sang more typical House Wren songs also). Perhaps this bird has received some audio-training in Bell's Vireo vocalizations over the past two days? I just looked at Anthony's photos and am very puzzled. The face pattern, particularly the broad pale area between the bill and the eye, appears very different from that of the bird I just saw. On the other hand, there are aspects of these photos that seem at odds for White-eyed Vireo, too. Without closer study (I have to go to class now), I'm just not sure of how to interpret these photos. Shai Mitra Bay Shore Out of respect for others and the environment, the College of Staten Island is a 100% Tobacco-Free Campus. -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ -- -- Hugh McGuinness Washington, D.C. -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] another immature White-eyed Vireo photo
taken in Virginia: http://www.projectnoah.org/spottings/12743457/fullscreen This is an interesting ID problem I was not aware of. Bob LewisSleepy Hollow NY -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Bell's Vireo There may have been 2 birds
Greetings to all, At approximately 8:45 a bird was located by a number of birders deep within the Virginia Creeper tangles in that dead tree .I had some real difficulty despite patience on the part of Isaac Grant and others. This is where the bird in question had first been seen. After a number of observers pointed out the bird, I finally had a good look. Then another (?) bird flew very close to where we stood and we observed it for some time in an elm sapling very close to the trail. That bird, was not as yellow -some wash but not bright and I did watch some very distinct tail movement and the bird did flick and raise its tail a number of times. Given the fact that tail movement is a behavior of the Bell's Vireo, I do think there were in fact 2 different birds. When the second bird that I had just mentioned left the tangle, the light and of course the view was so much better. In conclusion is tail movement a conclusive and helpful aid in the identification of the vireo? I do in fact think there were two different birds. Howard Fischer -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
Re: [nysbirds-l] Bell's Vireo There may have been 2 birds
Were photos taken of the second bird? Unless pics of an unambiguous Bell's Vireo are obtained I think that Occam's razor should be applied, that is, that the simplest explanation is likely the correct one. In this case I think the simplest explanation is that there is a juvenile White-eyed Vireo in a plumage most of us aren't used to which led to a misidentification. I think that Dick Veit's photos from when he originally found the bird would be very helpful. Does anyone know where they can be found? If those images show a bird that looks like the White-eyed Vireo then I think this whole question can be answered because I find it highly unlikely that a Bell's Vireo would happen to show up in the exact location that a White-eyed Vireo was misidentified as a Bell's Vireo. Anyway, that's my two cents and I have appreciated this opportunity to delve deeply into vireo identification. I have learned a lot. Good Birding, Corey Finger http://1birds.com From: Elizabeth D Poole acupres...@aol.com To: NYSBIRDS-L@cornell.edu Sent: Thursday, September 13, 2012 11:42 AM Subject: Re: [nysbirds-l] Bell's Vireo There may have been 2 birds Has anyone noted the relative size of this bird or birds? Bells Vireo is substantially smaller than the other vireos and has been likened to or mistaken for a Ruby Crowned Kinglet (it's larger than a kinglet). -Original Message- From: Cotingas cotin...@aol.com To: NYSBIRDS-L NYSBIRDS-L@cornell.edu Sent: Thu, Sep 13, 2012 10:31 am Subject: [nysbirds-l] Bell's Vireo There may have been 2 birds Greetings to all, At approximately 8:45 a bird was located by a number of birders deep within the Virginia Creeper tangles in that dead tree .I had some real difficulty despite patience on the part of Isaac Grant and others. This is where the bird in question had first been seen. After a number of observers pointed out the bird, I finally had a good look. Then another (?) bird flew very close to where we stood and we observed it for some time in an elm sapling very close to the trail. That bird, was not as yellow -some wash but not bright and I did watch some very distinct tail movement and the bird did flick and raise its tail a number of times. Given the fact that tail movement is a behavior of the Bell's Vireo, I do think there were in fact 2 different birds. When the second bird that I had just mentioned left the tangle, the light and of course the view was so much better. In conclusion is tail movement a conclusive and helpful aid in the identification of the vireo? I do in fact think there were two different birds. Howard Fischer -- NYSbirds-L List Info: Welcome and Basics Rules and Information Subscribe, Configuration and Leave Archives: The Mail Archive Surfbirds BirdingOnThe.Net Please submit your observations to eBird! -- -- NYSbirds-L List Info: Welcome and Basics Rules and Information Subscribe, Configuration and Leave Archives: The Mail Archive Surfbirds BirdingOnThe.Net Please submit your observations to eBird! -- -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
Re: [nysbirds-l] Bell's Vireo There may have been 2 birds
yes this bird is substantially smaller and scrawnier looking than the several white-eyed vireos that are also present. i suspect it is literally a runt white-eyed vireo. Richard R. Veit Professor Biology Department CSI/CUNY 2800 Victory Boulevard Staten Island, NY 10314 718-982-4144 Fax 718-982-3852 From: Elizabeth D Poole acupres...@aol.com To: NYSBIRDS-L@cornell.edu Sent: Thursday, September 13, 2012 11:42 AM Subject: Re: [nysbirds-l] Bell's Vireo There may have been 2 birds Has anyone noted the relative size of this bird or birds? Bells Vireo is substantially smaller than the other vireos and has been likened to or mistaken for a Ruby Crowned Kinglet (it's larger than a kinglet). -Original Message- From: Cotingas cotin...@aol.com To: NYSBIRDS-L NYSBIRDS-L@cornell.edu Sent: Thu, Sep 13, 2012 10:31 am Subject: [nysbirds-l] Bell's Vireo There may have been 2 birds Greetings to all, At approximately 8:45 a bird was located by a number of birders deep within the Virginia Creeper tangles in that dead tree .I had some real difficulty despite patience on the part of Isaac Grant and others. This is where the bird in question had first been seen. After a number of observers pointed out the bird, I finally had a good look. Then another (?) bird flew very close to where we stood and we observed it for some time in an elm sapling very close to the trail. That bird, was not as yellow -some wash but not bright and I did watch some very distinct tail movement and the bird did flick and raise its tail a number of times. Given the fact that tail movement is a behavior of the Bell's Vireo, I do think there were in fact 2 different birds. When the second bird that I had just mentioned left the tangle, the light and of course the view was so much better. In conclusion is tail movement a conclusive and helpful aid in the identification of the vireo? I do in fact think there were two different birds. Howard Fischer -- NYSbirds-L List Info: Welcome and Basics Rules and Information Subscribe, Configuration and Leave Archives: The Mail Archive Surfbirds BirdingOnThe.Net Please submit your observations to eBird! -- -- NYSbirds-L List Info: Welcome and Basics Rules and Information Subscribe, Configuration and Leave Archives: The Mail Archive Surfbirds BirdingOnThe.Net Please submit your observations to eBird! -- -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] C.P. Clay-colored Sparrow.
A Clay-colored Sparrow was found yesterday by James Knox in Central Parks North End . It was first seen in the Loch mixed in with a flock of house sparrows at around 3p.m. I later relocated the bird, still mixed in with the house sparrows an hour and a half later in the NW corner of the Compost Area. The CCSP was seen again by,Tom Pearlman back in the Loch at around 7AM this morning in the vacinity of the first Rustic Bridge. This time the sparrow was seen foraging alone. Anyone trying for the CCSP Should check all the surrounding areas （i.e. Green Bench, Grassy Knoll, etc.）suitable to sparrows as it appears to be making the rounds a bit, with or without the company of other birds. In light of the rescent assult on a Central Park birder I would strongly advise anyone looking for this bird go in the company of others as many parts of the North End can be quite remote, even in broad daylight. Safe and happy birding, Nadir Souirgi -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] BirdCallsRadio next guests | Dave Magpiong and Dr. J. Drew Lanham
Birders et al, BirdCallsRadio next guests are Dave Magpiong and Dr. J. Drew Lanham this Sunday (Sept 16) from 1-2 p.m. EST on 1490AM WGCH WORLDWIDE internet Streaming. http://birdcallsradio.com/2012/07/26/kim-todd-next-guest-on-birdcallsradio/ Cheers, Mardi Dickinson Norwalk, CT http://kymrygroup.com/ -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Pike's Beach Cupsogue Co. Park
Pike's Beach and Cupsogue County Park 13 September Joe Giunta, Debbie Martin and I (Sy Schiff) parked in the bay side parking lot of Pike's Beach and walked out to the bay. Directly across on the bar were 12 ROYAL TERNS and a CASPIAN TERN among the gulls. The Caspian flew off to the west as we looked. It was not subsequently relocated. At Cupsogue, we parked by the road to the trailer campgrounds and walked the sand road to the path leading to the bay. This is longer, but a lot easier than wading through the march. Directly across on the front of the bar were 3 MARBLED GODWIT among the gulls, shorebirds and cormorants. We then moved a way to our right (east) along the edge to a spot that appeared appropriate. There in a small area of the marsh, we called up 2 SEASIDE SPARROWS and 2 SALTMARSH SPARROWS. Except for the sparrows which came fairly close, the other birds required a fairly high powered scope even though they are pretty large birds. Sy -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Central Park Rape Suspect Apprehended By Police
FYI http://awalkintheparknyc.blogspot.com/2012/09/central-park-rape-suspect-apprehended.html -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Purple Finches - Wading River (Suffolk)
At about 2:00 PM, there were 7 Purple Finches resting and bathing along a small, brackish ephemeral area on the West Loop Trail at the Edward J. Dorothy C. Kempf Preserve in Wading River. The preserve is owned by The Nature Conservancy and is located along the west side of Sound Rd. Lots of good common warbler activity also noted in the vicinity of the Purples. Best, Derek Rogers Sayville http://www.flickr.com/photos/39025168@N07/ -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] Question re. Hudwits at Montezuma
Did anyone look for/see the Hudsonian Godwits today? Sent from my iPhone -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
[nysbirds-l] RBA Buffalo Bird Report 13 Sep 2012
- RBA * New York * Buffalo * 09/13/2012 * NYBU1209.13 - Birds mentioned --- Please submit reports to dsu...@buffaloornithologicalsociety.org --- WESTERN KINGBIRD WESTERN SANDPIPER WHIMBREL BLACK VULTURE Bl.-cr. Night-Heron Northern Shoveler Redhead Common Merganser Ruddy Duck Turkey Vulture Ruddy Turnstone Semipalm. Sandpiper Least Sandpiper Pectoral Sandpiper Red-necked Phalarope Caspian Tern Yellow-b. Flycatcher N. Rough-w. Swallow Winter Wren Ruby-cr. Kinglet Bl.-gr. Gnatcatcher Gray-cheeked Thrush Philadelphia Vireo Tennessee Warbler Nashville Warbler Northern Parula Yellow Warbler Chestnut-s. Warbler Magnolia Warbler Bl.-thr. Bl. Warbler Bl.-thr. Green Warb. Bay-breasted Warbler Blackpoll Warbler Bl. and w. Warbler American Redstart Northern Waterthrush Common Yellowthroat Hooded Warbler Wilson's Warbler Canada Warbler Scarlet Tanager Rose-br. Grosbeak White-thr. Sparrow Purple Finch - Transcript Hotline: Buffalo Bird Report at the Buffalo Museum of Science Date: 09/13/2012 Number: 716-896-1271 To Report:Same Compiler: David F. Suggs Coverage: Western New York and adjacent Ontario Website: www.BuffaloOrnithologicalSociety.org Thursday, September 13, 2012 The Buffalo Bird Report is a service provided by your Buffalo Museum of Science and the Buffalo Ornithological Society. To contact the Science Museum, call 896-5200. Highlights of reports received September 6 through September 13 from the Niagara Frontier Region include WESTERN KINGBIRD, WESTERN SANDPIPER, WHIMBREL and BLACK VULTURE. September 10, only, in the Lake Ontario Plains, a WESTERN KINGBIRD on Lakeshore Road in the Orleans County Town of Yates, one-half mile west of Marshall Road. Also on the 10th, a WESTERN SANDPIPER at Tifft Nature Preserve in Buffalo. And a migrant UPLAND SANDPIPER was heard over Buffalo on the 9th. September 8, prior to a passing storm front, 4 WHIMBRELS in flight over the Small Boat Harbor on the Buffalo waterfront. The single WHIMBREL photographed at Dunkirk Harbor last week, was actually one of four WHIMBRELS in the harbor, behind the Chadwick Bay Marina. In the Village of Lewiston, September 9, 3 BLACK VULTURES among a roost of TURKEY VULTURES at Route 18F and Mohawk Street, near the Lewiston Docks. A RED-NECKED PHALAROPE continues at the Batavia Waste Water Plant, still present on the 9th, with RUDDY TURNSTONE, PECTORAL SANDPIPER, SEMIPALM. SANDPIPER and LEAST SANDPIPER. Also, numbers of NORTHERN SHOVELERS and RUDDY DUCKS, with abundant SWALLOWS, primarily N. ROUGH-W. SWALLOWS. Warblers this week - a combined list of 17 species at Amherst State Park, plus YELLOW-B. FLYCATCHER, PHILADELPHIA VIREO, WINTER WREN, RUBY-CR. KINGLET, BL.-GR. GNATCATCHER, GRAY-CHEEKED THRUSH, SCARLET TANAGER, WHITE-THR. SPARROW, ROSE-BR. GROSBEAK and PURPLE FINCH. At Goat Island, in Niagara Falls, New York, twelve warbler species. Also this week, on the Black Rock Canal in Buffalo, 2 REDHEADS, 2 COMMON MERGANSERS, 5 CASPIAN TERNS and 30 BL.- CR. NIGHT-HERONS. The Bird Report will be updated Thursday evening, September 20. Please call in your sightings by noon Thursday. You may report sightings after the tone. Thank you for calling and reporting. - End Transcript -- NYSbirds-L List Info: http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsWELCOME http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsRULES http://www.NortheastBirding.com/NYSbirdsSubscribeConfigurationLeave.htm ARCHIVES: 1) http://www.mail-archive.com/nysbirds-l@cornell.edu/maillist.html 2) http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Group/NYSBirds-L 3) http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/NYSB.html Please submit your observations to eBird: http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ --
