Birdingonthe.Net Recent Postings from The Arkansas Birding List > Home > Mail > Alerts Updated on Tuesday, February 9 at 06:15 AM ET The most recently received Mail is at the top.	Rock-Jumper,©Tony Disley

9 Feb from Doug James about Trinidad opportunity [Joe Neal ] 8 Feb ASCA Field Trip Feb. 13 [Karen Holliday ] 8 Feb Feeders Today [Mitchell Pruitt ] 8 Feb Re Western Tanager [Barry Haas ] 8 Feb SIGHTING: Towhee [Larry Witherspoon ] 8 Feb Chasing birds [Beverly Sullivan ] 8 Feb Thanks [Gail Northcutt ] 8 Feb Re: POSTING: 7;00am [Larry Witherspoon ] 8 Feb POSTING: 7;00am [Larry Witherspoon ] 8 Feb Re: Western Tanager [Bob Sargent ] 7 Feb Western Tanager/ Chasers [Jack and Pam ] 7 Feb 4 pm Sunday Western Tanager [Kk Hart ] 7 Feb Re: Western Tanager [Craig Provost ] 7 Feb LINK: Photo Common Loon [Gail Miller ] 7 Feb Re: Western Tanager [Janine Perlman ] 7 Feb Re: Western Tanager [Bob Sargent ] 7 Feb Letter from Lake Fayetteville [Hilary David Chapman ] 7 Feb Re: Western Tanager [Janine Perlman ] 7 Feb mute swan [Alan Gregory ] 7 Feb Re: Western Tanager [Arkansas Birder ] 7 Feb Trumpeter Swans and Tundra Comparing body axis. ["Jeff R. Wilson" ] 7 Feb Re: Western Tanager [Charles Mills ] 7 Feb Re: Western Tanager [Arkansas Birder ] 7 Feb RFI: Is this Common Loon paler than normal or within normal range? [Jim Dixon ] 7 Feb Re: Western Tanager [Arkansas Birder ] 7 Feb Re: Western Tanager [Bob Sargent ] 7 Feb FRIENDS OF A FEATHER [Larry Witherspoon ] 7 Feb Magness Lake [Sheran Herrin ] 7 Feb Re: Western Tanager [Jack and Pam ] 7 Feb Re: Western Tanager (longish) [Bob Sargent ] 7 Feb Rare: Western Tanager [Dan Scheiman ] 6 Feb Birdies on the links [Barry Haas ] 6 Feb Re: Western Tanager [Janine Perlman ] 6 Feb Re: SIGHTING: SPOTTED TOWHEE [Dale Provost ] 6 Feb Photos [Robert Herron ] 6 Feb Craighead Forest/Nature Center Today [Mitchell Pruitt ] 6 Feb lake dardanelle [Kenny Nichols ] 6 Feb Rare: Western Tanager [Dan Scheiman ] 6 Feb Re: view recent rare bird submissions [Arkansas Birder ] 6 Feb Re: Western Tanager Sighting [Jim Dixon ] 6 Feb Western Tanager Sighting [Dan Scheiman ] 6 Feb Western Tanager - NO [Dan Scheiman ] 5 Feb Photos [Robert Herron ] 5 Feb view recent rare bird submissions [Lyndal York ] 5 Feb Lake Maumelle [Kenny Nichols ] 4 Feb Kingfisher [Teresa Mathews ] 4 Feb Re: SIGHTING: SPOTTED TOWHEE [Cheryle Sytsma ] 5 Feb Rare- Western Tanager [Laster/Roark ] 4 Feb Re: SIGHTING: SPOTTED TOWHEE [Bill Shepherd ] 4 Feb Crittenden Co. Swan ["Jeff R. Wilson" ] 3 Feb Woolsey WP Wednesday afternoon [Sara Caulk ] 3 Feb Re: SIGHTING: SPOTTED TOWHEE [Cheryle Sytsma ] 3 Feb Re: Greater Roadrunner [David Orr ] 3 Feb Greater Roadrunner [David Oakley ] 3 Feb 2 NEW Searches for Jane Anderson! [MyLife Search Alert ] 3 Feb Please ignore last post [Kimberly Smith ] 3 Feb RFI: News of Members needed for Arkansas Birds Newsletter [Kelly Chitwood ] 3 Feb Re: SIGHTING: SPOTTED TOWHEE [Cheryle Sytsma ] 2 Feb Red Slough Bird Survey - Feb. 2 [David Arbour ] 2 Feb Spotted Towhee -No [Donna Haynes ] 2 Feb Crittenden Co. AR Tundra Swan ["Jeff R. Wilson" ] 2 Feb Decatur white bird [Jacque Brown ] 2 Feb Horned lark at Craig Fish Hatchery, Centerton, AR [Scott Michaud ] 2 Feb SIGHTING: SPOTTED TOWHEE [Larry Witherspoon ] 1 Feb Craighead Forest Park Today [Mitchell Pruitt ] 1 Feb Swan near West Memphis [Beverly Sullivan ] 1 Feb Re: Sighting: White Mystery Bird, Decatur [Jacque Brown ] 1 Feb Re: Sighting: White Mystery Bird, Decatur [Jacque Brown ] 1 Feb Sighting: White Mystery Bird, Decatur [Dan Scheiman ] 1 Feb Snow and birds [Sally Jo Gibson ] 1 Feb Norhern Harriers [JoAnne Rife ] 1 Feb Re: Grackles and Squirrel Nests [Janine Perlman ] 1 Feb Insect wings on the snow [Joyce Hartmann ] 1 Feb A little late, but... [Sally Jo Gibson ] 31 Jan PILEATED WOODPECKERS [randall mann ] 31 Jan Re: MORE OF THE SAME [Craig Provost ] Subject: from Doug James about Trinidad opportunity From: Joe Neal <joeneal AT uark.edu> Date: Tue, 9 Feb 2010 06:15:00 -0600 Doug James requested that I post this information about a birding trip: Doug James and Ragupathy Kannan have organized a biology student trip this coming May to the Asa Wright Nature Centre in Trinidad, a nation in the Caribbean. The Centre is a world famous destination for tropical birding. The trip is coordinated by the combined University of Arkansas campuses in Fayetteville and Fort Smith. The details given below is the text from the fancy flier for the trip. Students have not fill all the slots for the trip so now we are opening the opportunity to the general birding public in Arkansas. You will have to go through the motions of registering as a student at the University of Arkansas in Fort Smith. One hour credit is earned for just participating in the trip. If you might want 2 or 3 hours credit, contact Drs. James and Kannan for descriptions of added work required. If you do not have a passport, application forms are available at the local Post Office. If you need to hasten the process that can be requested. *TROPICAL FIELD BIOLOGY -- MAY 2010* *TRINIDAD, WEST INDIES* *For University of Arkansas-Fort Smith and Fayetteville students* *Apply for and register with University of Arkansas-Fort Smith* *Course Name-- **SPECIAL TOPICS: TROPICAL FIELD BIOLOGY BIOL 420V (1-3 credit hrs.)* *Credits can be transferred to UA Fayetteville as electives*. See Dr.Kannan's article about last year's trip at: http://asawright.org/visitors/course.html *Course fee: $1500 (excluding tuition). Includes airfare, accommodation and all meals at the Asa Wright Nature Centre. *Dates: 9 to 15 May 2010 (five days plus two days for travel) *Faculty leader: Dr. R. Kannan (UA Fort Smith). Dr. Douglas A. James (UA Fayetteville) will accompany if enrollment reaches 16 students. *Deadlines: $1500 program fee February 26, 2010 (not refundable after that date) Register with UA Fort Smith and pay tuitio%yn (about $200/cr. hr) by February 26, 2010 � Five days in the world famous Asa Wright Nature Centre, one of the world�s best and well-known birding destinations � Over 50 tropical bird species right from the veranda, including about a dozen hummingbirds � Daily hikes into the rainforest to observe and study exotic tropical flora and fauna with trained local naturalist guides � A trip to the caves to see the unique oil birds � Boating among mangrove forests at dusk to view the spectacular aggregation of hundreds of scarlet ibises � A night trip to a secluded beach to see the ancient ritual of 1000-pound leatherback sea turtles nesting � Resort style accommodations with sumptuous local food served buffet-style *Additional expenses: Travel health insurance required for the duration of the trip (obtained on line by each participant) It is advisable, but not required, to take vaccinations as recommended by CDC (check www.cdc.gov) *Biology majors will enjoy first priority; a waiting list of others will be compiled to fill any vacant slots; all must register for the course at UA Fort Smith. (There are now vacancies) FOR REGISTRATION FORMS AND MORE INFORMATION: Dr. Douglas James (UA Fayetteville) 575-6364; Dr. R. Kannan (UAFS) 788-7616. James , Kannan Subject: ASCA Field Trip Feb. 13 From: Karen Holliday <ladyhawke1 AT ATT.NET> Date: Mon, 8 Feb 2010 15:27:18 -0800 The Audubon Society of Central Arkansas (ASCA) is holding our February field trip at Two Rivers Park and Lake Maumelle this Saturday, Feb.13. Both are located in the west Little Rock area. This is the same weekend as the Great Backyard Bird Count, Feb. 12-15. We will meet at 8:00 a.m. at Two Rivers Park. The Park has a diverse population of sparrows which will provide a great opportunity to work on identifying those little brown birds. Due to sandburs, knee-high rubber boots are recommend for walking the fields when flushing the birds. We will continue on to Lake Maumelle after finishing at the park. Loons, mergansers, ducks, and grebes are easily found on the lake this time of the year. Bring your scope. This is a morning trip. You do not have to be a member of ASCA to participate.You can find additional information about our field trips, meeting dates and programs, conservation efforts, rare bird reports, etc. on our website at www.ascabird.org.   Directions to Two Rivers Park --take Hwy. 10 West to the stoplight at Pinnacle Valley Road , just past the Kroger Store. Look for the brown sign for Maumelle Park. Turn right at the light.  Follow the road approximately 4 miles.  Do not turn towards Maumelle Park. Continue to stay on County Farm Road until you bear right through the gates into Two Rivers Park. Go approximately ¾ of a mile to the first parking lot on your right that has a Porta-Potty. Karen Holliday ASCA Field Trip Coordinator Little Rock, AR Subject: Feeders Today From: Mitchell Pruitt <mlpruitt24 AT YAHOO.COM> Date: Mon, 8 Feb 2010 12:46:57 -0800 Hi everyone, Today has been a fairly busy day at my feeders. I set up my camo netting to sit behind and take pictures until the snow started up again. I have about 15 'Slate Colored' Junco and one 'Oregon' Junco, 2 Cardinal, 2 Carolina Wren, 5 House Finch, 2 Downy Woodpecker, 2 Tufted Titmouse, and 2 White-throated Sparrow. Can't wait to see what tomorrow brings! Today's Photos: http://www.pbase.com/mpruitt/winter_blast_two Mitchell in Jonesboro Subject: Re Western Tanager From: Barry Haas <bhaas AT SBCGLOBAL.NET> Date: Mon, 8 Feb 2010 12:11:14 -0600 Dear ARBIRDers, As I've mentioned before, I'm neither a lister nor chaser, just a backyard birder of 20+ years. I've decided that there must be two different mindsets of birders. Folks who list/chase and those who don't do not overlap are separate breeds. Where we do overlap is in our interest in and love of birds. So let the listers list, and let the chasers chase, but always keep foremost in your minds not to harm your prey's well-being. Another aspect of this discussion that I've not seen mentioned much if at all is depth or going beyond listing/chasing. By that I mean in my experience some listers/chasers seem more focused on adding to their list versus observing the actions of birds they may have seen hundreds of times before. Guess that is why I enjoy so much the posts of folks like Joe Neal, Herschel Raney and Jeff Wilson. Their posts are often in-depth observations that go far beyond just ticking off a new species which they rarely do, and I wonder if some listers/chasers are missing that aspect of enjoying birds. We have seen red-shouldered hawks in our woods just west of Little Rock hundreds of times before. Yesterday a small bird (probably a junco) hit a window and a red-shouldered hawk perched atop a bluebird box maybe 100' away quickly swooped in and grabbed its next meal as we watched in sadness for the prey and admiration for the hawk. Shortly after that a red-shouldered hawk (maybe/maybe not the same individual) flew in and perched no more than 20' from where I sat in the dining room and slightly above where the prey had been grabbed just minutes before. Wow! With binoculars in hand it was almost like having that bird at arm's length. Such exquisite feathering. Oh, but wait, I've seen that species so it is no longer important (tongue planted firmly in cheek here). It would be easy to go see the western tanager here in town assuming it can still be seen and except for the raging snow storm, but I don't think my adding its name to a list would add anything to science or documentation of that individual or species. If 100 birders see it, will that be 10 times more valuable data than if only 10 people see it? I don't think so, but others may differ. I suspect the western tanager has been (over)documented enough that the Bird Records Committee will accept its presence and add it to the rare bird database. Now if you 'observed' it eating another bird, that would be a more noteworthy observation than its presence. Now, nothing I have said is to disparage those who choose to list/ chase, but in my opinion 'watching' birds is way more interesting and rewarding. From the deep woods just west of Little Rock, Barry Haas P.S. As I type this, huge snowflakes are falling and a wealth of bird species we have seen before are enjoying the variety of foods set out for their enjoyment. Not a lifer in the bunch, unless one is feeding at brand new GPS coordinates. Would that count? :>) Subject: SIGHTING: Towhee From: Larry Witherspoon <ldspoon AT SBCGLOBAL.NET> Date: Mon, 8 Feb 2010 11:14:20 -0600 Although very exciting.the Eastern male and female Towhees are present at this time. I still have not spotted the Spotted Towhee. Stay tuned! Thanks, Larry Witherspoon Subject: Chasing birds From: Beverly Sullivan <damebev AT AOL.COM> Date: Mon, 8 Feb 2010 10:15:30 -0500 I have been reading all these different opinions. I thought I would add my little bit. I am glad that poeple post when they see something worth chasing. Usually it is in other parts of our state where I can not get. But I make a note of it so if I am in that area I can try. I am a chaser, I guess. Just not a good one! Usually I can go where everyone else is finding a bird and I will not. So I do not post. My husband and I went to Craighead park yesterday trying to see the red - breasted merganzer. We did not find it, but I did get two life birds for me. Not unusual ones but new for me -- common goldeneye and male ruddy duck. Since most of my birds are ones that others would feel are very normal birds to see I don't say anything on here. But just because I do not post, does not mean I am not out there chasing. So my point is -- I believe there are more of us like me out there that the list does not know about. So please keep on posting and we can chose if we want to try for it. Jeff and Jay are the ones in my area who post that I really try to follow and then others in NE AR too. I wish I lived closer to LR because you have so many wonderful birds sighted in your area or posted, that I would love to come see. It seems that when something is sighted I am busy or the weather is such that I can not make it there. But please keep on posting. Just my two cents worth. I am learning! And all the wonderful people on this list are wonderful in helping me see new birds. Thanks, Beverly Sullivan Marion, AR who woke up to 7 inches of snow with more sleet and snow coming! Subject: Thanks From: Gail Northcutt <northcutt71 AT YAHOO.COM> Date: Mon, 8 Feb 2010 15:38:39 +0000 What a beautiful day to observe nature! Hundreds of goldfinches are feeding in my backyard. They serve as a heavy decoration in the midst of the snow on every branch of the curly willow and crepe myrtles. Thank you so much to those of you who "chase", observe, and post pictures to this listserve. Through your eyes I am able to see the Western Tanager. Through your pictures and text I am able to learn identification techniques that would otherwise take hours of personal research. The education provided by EACH birder is valued by me: the very serious backyard birder! My brain will always be grateful, but my heart will always ask: What is right not just for birds, but what is right for "this" bird. Gail Northcutt in Stuttgart (My 2 cents..not worth what it used to be!) Sent from my BlackBerry Smartphone provided by Alltel Subject: Re: POSTING: 7;00am From: Larry Witherspoon <ldspoon AT SBCGLOBAL.NET> Date: Mon, 8 Feb 2010 08:31:29 -0600 David, What I did is counted the number of birds in the square foot, and then multiplied by the number of square feet in the yard and then I rounded off the excess and then came to the number by deduction of a wild guess. Anyway, there are a bunch of them out there. Thanks, Larry Witherspoon Technology and Birding properly mixed, can be for the greater good. _____ From: David Oakley [mailto:gdosr AT cox.net] Sent: Monday, February 08, 2010 8:09 AM To: 'Larry Witherspoon' Subject: RE: POSTING: 7;00am How do you possibly count so many juncos and sparrows??? ----------------- David Oakley Springdale, AR gdosr AT cox.net From: The Birds of Arkansas Discussion List [mailto:ARBIRD-L AT LISTSERV.UARK.EDU] On Behalf Of Larry Witherspoon Sent: Monday, February 08, 2010 7:18 AM To: ARBIRD-L AT LISTSERV.UARK.EDU Subject: POSTING: 7;00am This morning --- 7:00am --- The backyard count. 732 Juncos 467 White-throat Sparrows 2 Fox Sparrows 3 Big Fat Puffed Up Robins 1 Downey Woodpecker At this sighting I have not spotted the Spotted Towhee. I will keep you posted. Also, no Western Tanager! Thanks, Larry Witherspoon Subject: POSTING: 7;00am From: Larry Witherspoon <ldspoon AT SBCGLOBAL.NET> Date: Mon, 8 Feb 2010 07:18:18 -0600 This morning --- 7:00am --- The backyard count. 732 Juncos 467 White-throat Sparrows 2 Fox Sparrows 3 Big Fat Puffed Up Robins 1 Downey Woodpecker At this sighting I have not spotted the Spotted Towhee. I will keep you posted. Also, no Western Tanager! Thanks, Larry Witherspoon Subject: Re: Western Tanager From: Bob Sargent <RubyThroat AT AOL.COM> Date: Mon, 8 Feb 2010 06:40:02 EST Arbirders There is room in our community of birders for differences of opinions. The Western Tanager is such an instance. I see the opportunity to view a rare bird as a great pleasure, and within ethical limits a non intrusive and worthwhile hobby. If nothing else it draws new observers into the arena of some very skilled birders (as in Arkansas) where they learn the importance of wildlife habitat preservations. The birds are simply icing on the cake. As I said in my original post, there are some jerks in our family of birders. This has always been the case. Most of those folks are not popular in the birding ranks since they "foul the water" for those of us who care about birds. Believe it or not, I do understand the opinions of those that think all bird banding is a bad idea. From my prospective, I willing handle many thousands of birds annually, knowing full well that a tiny, tiny fraction of those birds could be harmed in the process. It is the process that I defend, since in my heart I know bird banding, properly done, is a valuable tool in our research efforts to learn more about birds and how to protect them and their ever diminishing habitat. I do believe that in many instances, the use of audio lures (tapes, DVDs etc) are overused and serve no worthwhile purpose. In rare instances, they may even be harmful. In the case of the Western Tanager, I see nothing to indicate that such an event has occurred. My comments on this matter are not intended to empower those that are abusive in this practice, nor to condemn them for being a lister. I refuse to accept the notion that all listers are kooks and abusive in their birding practices. I am a lister, but not a "chaser", and I find great joy in the hobby of birding. I see it as the inspiration for my study of birds, which is something of which I am very proud. Again, I wish to express my thanks to the folks who own and manage this listserv for allowing this discussion of opposing views. Bob Sargent Clay, Alabama A past President of the Alabama Ornithological Society and an avid birder. Subject: Western Tanager/ Chasers From: Jack and Pam <jackstewart_us AT YAHOO.COM> Date: Sun, 7 Feb 2010 19:56:01 -0800 My general comments about playback were not related to the Western Tanager case as I was only responding to Janine's question and hadn't actually read about the Tanager report yet. BUT while I usually find myself in agreement with Dennis there is one statement of his with which I disagree. > > >Dennis feels that Arkansas is unique in denigrating "chasing" or, as it is called in England, "twitching". NOT SO. Go on line to almost any birder list in the world and one will find the same undertone. Because I worked overseas for many years I am on lists for a number of foreign bird discussion groups. At one time or another they have all dealt with this topic. Usually someone makes a comment that sets others off and the pros and cons of chasing rage back and forth for a few weeks, then quiets down for a time until something stirs it up again. The controversy comes in cycles like El Nino (sorry I don't know how to make the tilde). These discussions often include stories of blocked traffic, gardens trampled, even farmer's fields destroyed by over eager birders. The odd thing is that after much back and forth the groups settle on the same conclusion every time. Somebody eventually comes up with a variation of "It is not the way we chose to enjoy birds that is the issue, but the behavior of some individuals. We need to stick together". > > >The British take birding very seriously and some of the best world birders are British. So it is not surprising that lurking on a British list will produce some of the most delightful comments on the subject of twitching. I'll do my best to paraphrase two that come to mind: > > >This one tongue in check- > > >"If you see a bird you don't know, don't look it up! It might be a rare bird and then you'd risk being called a twitcher." > > >And an excellent pro "chaser" argument- > > >"Twitching is the breeding ground for tomorrows expert birders, artists, scientists, and conservationists." > > >Jack Stewart Subject: 4 pm Sunday Western Tanager From: Kk Hart <Hartwnkkk AT AOL.COM> Date: Sun, 7 Feb 2010 17:43:15 EST Neill and I took a Super Sunday foray to seek the tanager. From about 3:40 to 4:05 pm we parked in the west parking lot area of the Orthodox Church surveying the northern and western shrubs. Noted in that time: Carolina Wren Blue Jays Northern Cardinal (male and female) White Throated Sparrows English Sparrows (male and female) Northern Mockingbird Common Grackles Brown Thrasher Yellow Rumped Warbler American Robin (male and female) WESTERN TANAGER (perched in the sun for about 5 minutes on roof above the purple hummingbird feeder (over west fence))...we paid extra for that. also heard Mourning Doves and Red Bellied Woodpecker Not a bad stake out...Karen and Neill Hart Little Rock _hartwnkkk AT aol.com_ (mailto:hartwnkkk AT aol.com) Subject: Re: Western Tanager From: Craig Provost <craig-daleprovost AT SBCGLOBAL.NET> Date: Sun, 7 Feb 2010 16:52:48 -0600 Dale and I finally saw it in the same area from 2:35-2:45 p.m. Dale did get a photo. Craig, Little Rock, AR _____ From: The Birds of Arkansas Discussion List [mailto:ARBIRD-L AT LISTSERV.UARK.EDU] On Behalf Of Arkansas Birder Sent: Sunday, February 07, 2010 3:52 PM To: ARBIRD-L AT LISTSERV.UARK.EDU Subject: Re: [ARBIRD-L] Western Tanager Pat and I were among those who "chased" the Little Rock Western Tanager. About a dozen birders observed, photographed, and otherwise documented the bird during the few minutes we were there. The sizable turn out for the Western Tanager and the recent Spotted Towhee refutes the notion that chasers represent an insignificant minority of the Arkansas birding community. The many fine photos and verbal accounts of the bird once again demonstrate the value of chasing, which for reasons that escape me and unlike in other parts of the country, is often marginalized or denigrated here in Arkansas. Among the behaviors I noted was that the Western Tanager spent much of its time doing, well, not much of anything. Apparently the feeders in the area are providing the bird all the sustenance it wants with a minimum of effort. Though it wasn't posted until two days ago, I note that the AAS report dates from January. This suggests the tanager finds conditions and resources at its current location adequate, if not optimal. The fact that it appears to have ample leisure time also suggests that the disturbance of playback isn't likely to represent a significant danger to this particular bird. (This is not a general endorsement of playback, which I think should be minimized.) Regarding the fact that this Western Tanager is extralimital and thus subject to vagaries of diet and weather, I would just note that evolution (and Janine already knows this) acts on populations, not individuals. While its current circumstances may not be optimal for the survival of this individual bird, the kind of dispersal to new and challenging environments its presence represents is adaptive for the long term survival of its species. This bird is a pioneer, not the safest role to play, but a noble one. Dennis Braddy Little Rock, AR http://www.arkansasbirder.net "I never did give anybody hell. I just told the truth and they thought it was hell." - Harry Truman (no keyword) Conservation, habitat, behavior, distribution, abundance, migration, feeders, birdhouses, ... SIGHTINGS: Bird sightings (not rare), day lists, surveys, yard birds, trip reports FOS: First of season sightings RARE: Rare bird sightings (rare or rarer in AAS Field List) INFO: Spontaneous emissions of information on topics not covered elsewhere RFI: Requests for information (general, ARBIRD-L, bird identification, optics, subscriber polls) LINK: Links to photos, websites FOW: Fellowship of the Wings ANNOUNCEMENT: Announcements of field trips, meetings On Feb 6, 2010, at 8:19 PM, Janine Perlman wrote: I'm not a "serious" birder (or at least not a chaser); and I haven't looked into an issue I'd like to learn more about: I'm wondering about possible ill effects of playback and other disruptions, especially on a bird that is presumably struggling to survive---in this case, in temperatures and with a food supply that are far from optimal. I don't know whether the WETA is actually a good case in point or not. He has presumably been frequenting feeders for a few months. On the other hand I don't know what he's actually been eating, or whether his Little Rock diet is anywhere near his optimal (necessary?) winter diet of insects and fruits of southern Mexico and Central America. So---WETA or more generally---any takers? And/or can anyone point me to authoritative discussions in the birding literature? Subject: LINK: Photo Common Loon From: Gail Miller <gail.miller AT CONWAYCORP.NET> Date: Sun, 7 Feb 2010 17:06:27 -0600 I decided to go to Lake Maumelle today. I had lots of directions for Common Loon sighting areas thanks to folks on the list. Though I checked all the sighting spots, I decided my best bet was to stay put on one of the boat docks and wait it out. I have tons of patience for that!!! This Loon came into the boat dock area. The sun did not come out until around 3:00 p.m. and by then all the boys and their boats started coming it. I'll go back another day in hopes for a sunnier day. Enjoy ... what a beautiful bird, I even got to hear their call!!! http://www.pbase.com/gnmimiller/common_loon Gail in Conway Subject: Re: Western Tanager From: Janine Perlman <jpandjf AT SWBELL.NET> Date: Sun, 7 Feb 2010 17:28:37 -0600 I'm very sorry if my post was offensive. I had no idea that "serious" or "chasing" may apparently used pejoratively, or that "serious chasers" are denigrated and marginalized in Arkansas. (And no, I'm not being sarcastic now, either!) Thanks for describing the bird's behavior, too, in addressing my questions about how he may be faring. You raised another undoubtedly naive question for me, Dennis (or anyone else who'd care to share). Maybe I'm mis-inferring, but why are the "many fine photos and verbal accounts" of a group of a dozen (or more) people viewing a bird more valuable than two or three people reporting it with their photos? Real question; I really don't know the answer, and would like to. As Jerry likes to say, Peace and birds, Janine ----- Original Message ----- From: Arkansas Birder To: ARBIRD-L AT LISTSERV.UARK.EDU Sent: Sunday, February 07, 2010 3:52 PM Subject: Re: Western Tanager Pat and I were among those who "chased" the Little Rock Western Tanager. About a dozen birders observed, photographed, and otherwise documented the bird during the few minutes we were there. The sizable turn out for the Western Tanager and the recent Spotted Towhee refutes the notion that chasers represent an insignificant minority of the Arkansas birding community. The many fine photos and verbal accounts of the bird once again demonstrate the value of chasing, which for reasons that escape me and unlike in other parts of the country, is often marginalized or denigrated here in Arkansas. Among the behaviors I noted was that the Western Tanager spent much of its time doing, well, not much of anything. Apparently the feeders in the area are providing the bird all the sustenance it wants with a minimum of effort. Though it wasn't posted until two days ago, I note that the AAS report dates from January. This suggests the tanager finds conditions and resources at its current location adequate, if not optimal. The fact that it appears to have ample leisure time also suggests that the disturbance of playback isn't likely to represent a significant danger to this particular bird. (This is not a general endorsement of playback, which I think should be minimized.) Regarding the fact that this Western Tanager is extralimital and thus subject to vagaries of diet and weather, I would just note that evolution (and Janine already knows this) acts on populations, not individuals. While its current circumstances may not be optimal for the survival of this individual bird, the kind of dispersal to new and challenging environments its presence represents is adaptive for the long term survival of its species. This bird is a pioneer, not the safest role to play, but a noble one. Dennis Braddy Little Rock, AR http://www.arkansasbirder.net "I never did give anybody hell. I just told the truth and they thought it was hell." - Harry Truman (no keyword) Conservation, habitat, behavior, distribution, abundance, migration, feeders, birdhouses, ... SIGHTINGS: Bird sightings (not rare), day lists, surveys, yard birds, trip reports FOS: First of season sightings RARE: Rare bird sightings (rare or rarer in AAS Field List) INFO: Spontaneous emissions of information on topics not covered elsewhere RFI: Requests for information (general, ARBIRD-L, bird identification, optics, subscriber polls) LINK: Links to photos, websites FOW: Fellowship of the Wings ANNOUNCEMENT: Announcements of field trips, meetings On Feb 6, 2010, at 8:19 PM, Janine Perlman wrote: I'm not a "serious" birder (or at least not a chaser); and I haven't looked into an issue I'd like to learn more about: I'm wondering about possible ill effects of playback and other disruptions, especially on a bird that is presumably struggling to survive---in this case, in temperatures and with a food supply that are far from optimal. I don't know whether the WETA is actually a good case in point or not. He has presumably been frequenting feeders for a few months. On the other hand I don't know what he's actually been eating, or whether his Little Rock diet is anywhere near his optimal (necessary?) winter diet of insects and fruits of southern Mexico and Central America. So---WETA or more generally---any takers? And/or can anyone point me to authoritative discussions in the birding literature? Subject: Re: Western Tanager From: Bob Sargent <RubyThroat AT AOL.COM> Date: Sun, 7 Feb 2010 18:20:32 EST Arbirders and Janine I think that the term "rare" is one that must be reexamined regularly. I am not certain of how many accepted records in Arkansas there are for Western Tanager at this date, but I dare say with the numbers of expert birders, old and new in the state it will soon be off any review list. Using a audio lure here in Alabama took Saw-whet Owl from rare to commonplace in only a two years. I do not wish to offend those who serve on the Arkansas Bird Records Committee by my comments. I am expressing an opinion only, but one based on the widespread use of audio lures in the documentation of "rare" birds. The use of audio lures has allowed conservationist, me included, to document breeding populations of many of our uncommon species in my home state. This in turn has allowed us to make a better plan for purchasing and setting aside lands on a limited budget. The allocation of such limited funding is a huge challenge for all of us. Specifically, I do not believe that the use of the audio tape in the case of the Western Tanager in the city in winter posed any health hazard to this individual bird. I believe that the use of these audio tapes is a genie out of the bottle. What we must all do is make every attempt to keep the "birding ethic" in our field work and bird outings. It is my fear that openly being critical of those that use the audio lure with caution will curtail the reports of these rare birds, if it has not already done so. By the way I will be playing an audio lure in about a half hour to try to net and band another Northern Saw-whet Owl here in Alabama. The last Saw-whet that I netted was one that was originally banded in Ontario, Canada. That person also used an audio lure to capture and band that bird originally. I would like to thank the Listowner and Moderator for allowing this open and frank discussions of opposing views on this great forum. Bob Sargent Clay, Alabama In a message dated 2/7/2010 3:35:34 P.M. Central Standard Time, jpandjf AT swbell.net writes: Thanks so much, Bob, for your thoughtful reply. Could you comment on this (lifted from Jack's post), vis-a-vis extralimitals? never use such methods in heavily birded areas, or for attracting any species that is Threatened, Endangered, or of Special Concern, or is rare in your local area -Janine Subject: Letter from Lake Fayetteville From: Hilary David Chapman <dchapman AT UARK.EDU> Date: Sun, 7 Feb 2010 15:54:33 -0600 If you are new to birding and frustrated at not being able to get a decent view of Winter Wren then I recommend the iron bridge across the spillway at the western end of Lake Fayetteville. From the bridge it is possible to look down at the rocks and swirling water below. On every trip with a little patience I see a Wren dashing between and beneath the rocks foraging for food. The city has provided seating from which you can view this spectacle if you are in a lazy frame of mind! This behavior, minus immersion, reminds one of the Dipper which belongs to a family related to the Wrens. Never observed in Arkansas I believe but maybe one day someone may get lucky. The continued cold seems to have discouraged our regulars such as Pied-billed Grebe and Bufflehead but the small flock of Goldeneye can usually be found at this end of the Lake. David Chapman Subject: Re: Western Tanager From: Janine Perlman <jpandjf AT SWBELL.NET> Date: Sun, 7 Feb 2010 15:35:28 -0600 Thanks so much, Bob, for your thoughtful reply. Could you comment on this (lifted from Jack's post), vis-a-vis extralimitals? never use such methods in heavily birded areas, or for attracting any species that is Threatened, Endangered, or of Special Concern, or is rare in your local area -Janine ----- Original Message ----- From: Bob Sargent To: ARBIRD-L AT LISTSERV.UARK.EDU Sent: Sunday, February 07, 2010 1:50 PM Subject: Re: Western Tanager Jack, Janine and Arbirders I agree with Jack that the use of playbacks are sometimes overused in heavily birded areas. However, it seems that the church yard location is probably not one of those heavily birded areas. Good birding ethics must always apply no matter where we are. The concern for the health of the bird must always be a priority. Bob Sargent Clay, Alabama In a message dated 2/7/2010 12:34:56 P.M. Central Standard Time, jackstewart_us AT YAHOO.COM writes: Yesterday I was at the National Audubon Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary and it is one of many such places with signs that forbid playback. I too would be interested in discussions on this topic in the literature. Common sense says to me that playback would be disruptive during the breeding season, during migration, or at other times when birds are particularly stressed. This, it seems to me, would especially be an issue at favored "hot spots" where there are many birders. I could relate several examples where I have observed over use of playback to the point where an individual bird was harassed over and over again within a period of several hours by different groups of birders. Each time the person playing the recording was unaware that the bird had already responded to playback by another group only a few minutes before. This is not to say that playback should never be allowed, but the fact is that good birding locations are increasingly well known and are subject to more disturbance by humans. It is also true that" listers", "chasers" or "serious" birders add zest and excitement as well as useful knowledge to our hobby so this is only questioning a particular birding technique not the chasing itself. The ABA Code of Ethics says "Limit the use of recordings and other methods of attracting birds, and never use such methods in heavily birded areas, or for attracting any species that is Threatened, Endangered, or of Special Concern, or is rare in your local area; Jack Stewart from Ft Myers, FL ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- From: Janine Perlman To: ARBIRD-L AT LISTSERV.UARK.EDU Sent: Sat, February 6, 2010 9:19:52 PM Subject: Re: Western Tanager I'm not a "serious" birder (or at least not a chaser); and I haven't looked into an issue I'd like to learn more about: I'm wondering about possible ill effects of playback and other disruptions, especially on a bird that is presumably struggling to survive---in this case, in temperatures and with a food supply that are far from optimal. I don't know whether the WETA is actually a good case in point or not. He has presumably been frequenting feeders for a few months. On the other hand I don't know what he's actually been eating, or whether his Little Rock diet is anywhere near his optimal (necessary?) winter diet of insects and fruits of southern Mexico and Central America. So---WETA or more generally---any takers? And/or can anyone point me to authoritative discussions in the birding literature? Janine Perlman Alexander Mt., Saline Co. Subject: mute swan From: Alan Gregory <quattro AT WINDSTREAM.NET> Date: Sun, 7 Feb 2010 14:53:45 -0600 after hanging around for several months the lone mute swan was not at lake harrison today. alan gregory harrison Subject: Re: Western Tanager From: Arkansas Birder <arkansasbirder AT mac.com> Date: Sun, 7 Feb 2010 23:31:11 -0600 Several posts and private emails I've received since moving to Arkansas in 2006 marginalized the chasing of rare birds as a birding activity by claiming the number of chasers in this state is insignificant. I didn't think that was true, so I did a little research. I recently compiled a list of ~50 Arkansas birders that had either posted regarding chasing a rare bird in the preceding 3 months or that I had actually run into in the field while chasing the same rare bird. Whatever their geographical distribution, that number represents a significant fraction of the ARBIRD-L subscribers who submit posts. During my 2007 Arkansas Big Year I received email disparaging my chasing of rare birds and calling it a waste of gas. I'm glad that Charles doesn't feel marginalized or denigrated, but unattractive as it may be, the existence of both is objective, documented fact. Dennis Braddy Little Rock, AR http://www.arkansasbirder.net "I never did give anybody hell. I just told the truth and they thought it was hell." - Harry Truman (no keyword) Conservation, habitat, behavior, distribution, abundance, migration, feeders, birdhouses, ... SIGHTINGS: Bird sightings (not rare), day lists, surveys, yard birds, trip reports FOS: First of season sightings RARE: Rare bird sightings (rare or rarer in AAS Field List) INFO: Spontaneous emissions of information on topics not covered elsewhere RFI: Requests for information (general, ARBIRD-L, bird identification, optics, subscriber polls) LINK: Links to photos, websites FOW: Fellowship of the Wings ANNOUNCEMENT: Announcements of field trips, meetings On Feb 7, 2010, at 9:02 PM, Charles Mills wrote: > I think the sizable turn out in these cases had as much as anything to do with geography. The greater Little Rock area is one of if not the most heavily populated regions in the state with, arguably, the highest density of birders. Given this, it shouldn't at all be surprising that such a sizable turn out occurred. Had the same birds appeared in Jonesboro or Lake Village, I'm quite certain that the turn out would have been smaller perhaps significantly so. Lastly, having been a chaser/serious birder for nearly 40 years, I have never felt insignificant, marginalized, or denigrated. Subject: Trumpeter Swans and Tundra Comparing body axis. From: "Jeff R. Wilson" <OLCOOT1 AT aol.com> Date: Sun, 7 Feb 2010 23:48:05 EST Feb. 7, 2010 Tipton - Dyer - Lake Co. TN Today, I lucked up on the 3 immature Trumpeter Swans that have been hanging around near Reelfoot Lake. I've posted photos showing the differences in the body axis lines on the 2 swan species starting at: _http://www.pbase.com/ol_coot/image/121629549_ (http://www.pbase.com/ol_coot/image/121629549) Also, I've posted photos of an adult dark morph Western Red-tail and an adult Krider's found this weekend. Their photos can be viewed just after the swan photos. Good Birding !!! Jeff R. Wilson / TLBA 6300 Memphis-Arlington Road Bartlett, TN 38135 http://www.pbase.com/ol_coot/ What is this feathered thing that lifts my heart to the heavens. Subject: Re: Western Tanager From: Charles Mills <swamp_fox AT mac.com> Date: Sun, 7 Feb 2010 21:02:08 -0600 Although I would agree that, while it's certainly better to gather as much substantiating information as possible to support a rare observation, it's my belief that quality is more valuable than quantity. Give me thorough written details-preferably with a series of sharp, properly processed photos taken at different angles from even a single observer-and my job as a member of the Bird Records Committee is made significantly easier. Give me a dozen accounts predicated on the contention that "the bird couldn't have been anything else" along with ambiguous photos and I'll want to butt heads with a Bighorn. And as long as I'm discussing matters relating to the recent observations of both the Western Tanager and Spotted Towhee, let me present a different perspective to this statement: "The sizable turn out for the Western Tanager and the recent Spotted Towhee refutes the notion that chasers represent an insignificant minority of the Arkansas birding community. The many fine photos and verbal accounts of the bird once again demonstrate the value of chasing, which for reasons that escape me and unlike in other parts of the country, is often marginalized or denigrated here in Arkansas." I think the sizable turn out in these cases had as much as anything to do with geography. The greater Little Rock area is one of if not the most heavily populated regions in the state with, arguably, the highest density of birders. Given this, it shouldn't at all be surprising that such a sizable turn out occurred. Had the same birds appeared in Jonesboro or Lake Village, I'm quite certain that the turn out would have been smaller perhaps significantly so. Lastly, having been a chaser/serious birder for nearly 40 years, I have never felt insignificant, marginalized, or denigrated. Charles Mills Ogden AR 71853 Arkansas Birder wrote: > In my previous life as physicist and computer scientist a core tenet > was that there is no such thing as too much data. More documentation > not only makes the identification of a bird more certain, but more > importantly may provide additional information relevant to its > condition, behavior, environment, and ability to adapt to anomalous > conditions outside its normal range. If citizen-science is of value, > then more of it is surely more valuable. (In measurements of > parameters in simple physical systems the uncertainty of the result > varies inversely as the square root of the number of > measurements.) Limiting observations to the minimum "necessary" is bad > science (if it is science at all) as it increases the probability that > highly unusual or uncharacteristic behaviors will lead to unwarranted > conclusions. For example, limiting observations of the weather to too > short a time period or to artfully chosen time frames, rather than > considering all of the available data, has lead some unwary souls to > erroneously conclude global climate change due to human activities is > a myth. > > Dennis Braddy > Little Rock, AR > > http://www.arkansasbirder.net > > "I never did give anybody hell. I just told the truth and they thought > it was hell." - Harry Truman > > (no keyword) Conservation, habitat, behavior, distribution, abundance, > migration, feeders, birdhouses, ... > SIGHTINGS: Bird sightings (not rare), day lists, surveys, yard birds, > trip reports > FOS: First of season sightings > RARE: Rare bird sightings (rare or rarer in AAS Field List) > INFO: Spontaneous emissions of information on topics not covered elsewhere > RFI: Requests for information (general, ARBIRD-L, bird identification, > optics, subscriber polls) > LINK: Links to photos, websites > FOW: Fellowship of the Wings > ANNOUNCEMENT: Announcements of field trips, meetings > > > On Feb 7, 2010, at 5:28 PM, Janine Perlman wrote: > >> Maybe I'm mis-inferring, but why are the "many fine photos and verbal >> accounts" of a group of a dozen (or more) people viewing a bird more >> valuable than two or three people reporting it with their photos? >> Real question; I really don't know the answer, and would like to. Subject: Re: Western Tanager From: Arkansas Birder <arkansasbirder AT mac.com> Date: Sun, 7 Feb 2010 19:34:32 -0600 In my previous life as physicist and computer scientist a core tenet was that there is no such thing as too much data. More documentation not only makes the identification of a bird more certain, but more importantly may provide additional information relevant to its condition, behavior, environment, and ability to adapt to anomalous conditions outside its normal range. If citizen-science is of value, then more of it is surely more valuable. (In measurements of parameters in simple physical systems the uncertainty of the result varies inversely as the square root of the number of measurements.) Limiting observations to the minimum "necessary" is bad science (if it is science at all) as it increases the probability that highly unusual or uncharacteristic behaviors will lead to unwarranted conclusions. For example, limiting observations of the weather to too short a time period or to artfully chosen time frames, rather than considering all of the available data, has lead some unwary souls to erroneously conclude global climate change due to human activities is a myth. Dennis Braddy Little Rock, AR http://www.arkansasbirder.net "I never did give anybody hell. I just told the truth and they thought it was hell." - Harry Truman (no keyword) Conservation, habitat, behavior, distribution, abundance, migration, feeders, birdhouses, ... SIGHTINGS: Bird sightings (not rare), day lists, surveys, yard birds, trip reports FOS: First of season sightings RARE: Rare bird sightings (rare or rarer in AAS Field List) INFO: Spontaneous emissions of information on topics not covered elsewhere RFI: Requests for information (general, ARBIRD-L, bird identification, optics, subscriber polls) LINK: Links to photos, websites FOW: Fellowship of the Wings ANNOUNCEMENT: Announcements of field trips, meetings On Feb 7, 2010, at 5:28 PM, Janine Perlman wrote: > Maybe I'm mis-inferring, but why are the "many fine photos and verbal accounts" of a group of a dozen (or more) people viewing a bird more valuable than two or three people reporting it with their photos? Real question; I really don't know the answer, and would like to. Subject: RFI: Is this Common Loon paler than normal or within normal range? From: Jim Dixon <jamesdixonlr AT att.net> Date: Sun, 7 Feb 2010 19:06:59 -0600 I saw this loon on Lake Maumelle on 2/7/10. I know the pictures are no good but they show that he's paler than the nearby "normal" Common Loon. One image was shot in manual mode through my spotting scope and its hard to focus. The picture is larger but focus is not so good. Hopefully there is enough to work with. Is this loon abnormally pale or within the normal range? The first summer COLO is paler than adult but of course it is not summer. There is one or two where he looks a little darker but he looked pale for 30 minutes so I don't think its a matter of being in the Sun with the other not. http://jamesdixon.us/?page_id=4&g2_itemId=4268 thanks for looking. -- Jim Dixon Little Rock, AR www.JamesDixon.us See my recent images at http://JamesDixon.us/?page_id=4&g2_itemId=1814 Subject: Re: Western Tanager From: Arkansas Birder <arkansasbirder AT mac.com> Date: Sun, 7 Feb 2010 15:52:13 -0600 Pat and I were among those who "chased" the Little Rock Western Tanager. About a dozen birders observed, photographed, and otherwise documented the bird during the few minutes we were there. The sizable turn out for the Western Tanager and the recent Spotted Towhee refutes the notion that chasers represent an insignificant minority of the Arkansas birding community. The many fine photos and verbal accounts of the bird once again demonstrate the value of chasing, which for reasons that escape me and unlike in other parts of the country, is often marginalized or denigrated here in Arkansas. Among the behaviors I noted was that the Western Tanager spent much of its time doing, well, not much of anything. Apparently the feeders in the area are providing the bird all the sustenance it wants with a minimum of effort. Though it wasn't posted until two days ago, I note that the AAS report dates from January. This suggests the tanager finds conditions and resources at its current location adequate, if not optimal. The fact that it appears to have ample leisure time also suggests that the disturbance of playback isn't likely to represent a significant danger to this particular bird. (This is not a general endorsement of playback, which I think should be minimized.) Regarding the fact that this Western Tanager is extralimital and thus subject to vagaries of diet and weather, I would just note that evolution (and Janine already knows this) acts on populations, not individuals. While its current circumstances may not be optimal for the survival of this individual bird, the kind of dispersal to new and challenging environments its presence represents is adaptive for the long term survival of its species. This bird is a pioneer, not the safest role to play, but a noble one. Dennis Braddy Little Rock, AR http://www.arkansasbirder.net "I never did give anybody hell. I just told the truth and they thought it was hell." - Harry Truman (no keyword) Conservation, habitat, behavior, distribution, abundance, migration, feeders, birdhouses, ... SIGHTINGS: Bird sightings (not rare), day lists, surveys, yard birds, trip reports FOS: First of season sightings RARE: Rare bird sightings (rare or rarer in AAS Field List) INFO: Spontaneous emissions of information on topics not covered elsewhere RFI: Requests for information (general, ARBIRD-L, bird identification, optics, subscriber polls) LINK: Links to photos, websites FOW: Fellowship of the Wings ANNOUNCEMENT: Announcements of field trips, meetings On Feb 6, 2010, at 8:19 PM, Janine Perlman wrote: > I'm not a "serious" birder (or at least not a chaser); and I haven't looked into an issue I'd like to learn more about: I'm wondering about possible ill effects of playback and other disruptions, especially on a bird that is presumably struggling to survive---in this case, in temperatures and with a food supply that are far from optimal. > > I don't know whether the WETA is actually a good case in point or not. He has presumably been frequenting feeders for a few months. On the other hand I don't know what he's actually been eating, or whether his Little Rock diet is anywhere near his optimal (necessary?) winter diet of insects and fruits of southern Mexico and Central America. > > So---WETA or more generally---any takers? And/or can anyone point me to authoritative discussions in the birding literature? Subject: Re: Western Tanager From: Bob Sargent <RubyThroat AT AOL.COM> Date: Sun, 7 Feb 2010 14:50:51 EST Jack, Janine and Arbirders I agree with Jack that the use of playbacks are sometimes overused in heavily birded areas. However, it seems that the church yard location is probably not one of those heavily birded areas. Good birding ethics must always apply no matter where we are. The concern for the health of the bird must always be a priority. Bob Sargent Clay, Alabama In a message dated 2/7/2010 12:34:56 P.M. Central Standard Time, jackstewart_us AT YAHOO.COM writes: Yesterday I was at the National Audubon Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary and it is one of many such places with signs that forbid playback. I too would be interested in discussions on this topic in the literature. Common sense says to me that playback would be disruptive during the breeding season, during migration, or at other times when birds are particularly stressed. This, it seems to me, would especially be an issue at favored "hot spots" where there are many birders. I could relate several examples where I have observed over use of playback to the point where an individual bird was harassed over and over again within a period of several hours by different groups of birders. Each time the person playing the recording was unaware that the bird had already responded to playback by another group only a few minutes before. This is not to say that playback should never be allowed, but the fact is that good birding locations are increasingly well known and are subject to more disturbance by humans. It is also true that" listers", "chasers" or "serious" birders add zest and excitement as well as useful knowledge to our hobby so this is only questioning a particular birding technique not the chasing itself. The ABA Code of Ethics says "Limit the use of recordings and other methods of attracting birds, and never use such methods in heavily birded areas, or for attracting any species that is Threatened, Endangered, or of Special Concern, or is rare in your local area; Jack Stewart from Ft Myers, FL ____________________________________ From: Janine Perlman To: ARBIRD-L AT LISTSERV.UARK.EDU Sent: Sat, February 6, 2010 9:19:52 PM Subject: Re: Western Tanager I'm not a "serious" birder (or at least not a chaser); and I haven't looked into an issue I'd like to learn more about: I'm wondering about possible ill effects of playback and other disruptions, especially on a bird that is presumably struggling to survive---in this case, in temperatures and with a food supply that are far from optimal. I don't know whether the WETA is actually a good case in point or not. He has presumably been frequenting feeders for a few months. On the other hand I don't know what he's actually been eating, or whether his Little Rock diet is anywhere near his optimal (necessary?) winter diet of insects and fruits of southern Mexico and Central America. So---WETA or more generally---any takers? And/or can anyone point me to authoritative discussions in the birding literature? Janine Perlman Alexander Mt., Saline Co. Subject: FRIENDS OF A FEATHER From: Larry Witherspoon <ldspoon AT SBCGLOBAL.NET> Date: Sun, 7 Feb 2010 12:37:37 -0600 I just happened upon this little poem and decided to share it. FRIEND: intelligence, sometimes the soul, water, bread, a cave where we sit with friends, invisible bowl to drink from, health coming back to a patient, definite statement, pulsing spring, cloud, I'll stop. not because words have become tedious, but to keep that bird sitting on it's branch. Thanks, Larry Witherspoon Subject: Magness Lake From: Sheran Herrin <sjherrin AT CSWNET.COM> Date: Sun, 7 Feb 2010 08:29:05 -0600 Went to Magness Lake yesterday afternoon with my student intern and her boyfriend who is a duck hunter. All the usual suspects were present- Trumpeter Swans, Ring Neck, Mallard and Bufflehead Ducks. The highlight was a lifebird for me- 2 male Canvasback Ducks! According to Keith, he has seen only one this year. Took several pics that are good enough for ID purposes. Also present was a blue phase Snow Goose. Sheran Herrin just north of Beebe, looking forward to the GBBC next weekend. Subject: Re: Western Tanager From: Jack and Pam <jackstewart_us AT YAHOO.COM> Date: Sun, 7 Feb 2010 07:02:52 -0800 Yesterday I was at the National Audubon Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary and it is one of many such places with signs that forbid playback. I too would be interested in discussions on this topic in the literature. Common sense says to me that playback would be disruptive during the breeding season, during migration, or at other times when birds are particularly stressed. This, it seems to me, would especially be an issue at favored "hot spots" where there are many birders. I could relate several examples where I have observed over use of playback to the point where an individual bird was harassed over and over again within a period of several hours by different groups of birders. Each time the person playing the recording was unaware that the bird had already responded to playback by another group only a few minutes before. This is not to say that playback should never be allowed, but the fact is that good birding locations are increasingly well known and are subject to more disturbance by humans. It is also true that" listers", "chasers" or "serious" birders add zest and excitement as well as useful knowledge to our hobby so this is only questioning a particular birding technique not the chasing itself. The ABA Code of Ethics says "Limit the use of recordings and other methods of attracting birds, and never use such methods in heavily birded areas, or for attracting any species that is Threatened, Endangered, or of Special Concern, or is rare in your local area; Jack Stewart from Ft Myers, FL ________________________________ From: Janine Perlman To: ARBIRD-L AT LISTSERV.UARK.EDU Sent: Sat, February 6, 2010 9:19:52 PM Subject: Re: Western Tanager I'm not a "serious" birder (or at least not a chaser); and I haven't looked into an issue I'd like to learn more about: I'm wondering about possible ill effects of playback and other disruptions, especially on a bird that is presumably struggling to survive---in this case, in temperatures and with a food supply that are far from optimal. I don't know whether the WETA is actually a good case in point or not. He has presumably been frequenting feeders for a few months. On the other hand I don't know what he's actually been eating, or whether his Little Rock diet is anywhere near his optimal (necessary?) winter diet of insects and fruits of southern Mexico and Central America. So---WETA or more generally---any takers? And/or can anyone point me to authoritative discussions in the birding literature? Janine Perlman Alexander Mt., Saline Co. Subject: Re: Western Tanager (longish) From: Bob Sargent <RubyThroat AT AOL.COM> Date: Sun, 7 Feb 2010 12:46:44 EST Arbirders I will respond to my friend Janine's inquiry questioning the use of playbacks and "disruptions" of wintering passerines. From my experience with these so-called out of range birds, over 25 years of birding, I have never witnessed the playing of tapes as disruptive to the health status of these rare birds (for us). In my OPINION, I do believe that birds that are foraging in winter are not likely to be distracted from foraging by the sounds of others of their species calling or singing. While studying breeding birds on Breeding Bird Surveys and Bird Atlas work, in my experience most territorial birds tend to remain in well defined territories, but extended playing of a tape within that territory MIGHT be disruptive. I think that the role played by most ethical birders has been a great method of the discovery of new wintering species of passerines (and hummingbirds). As a birder and bander, I have met my share of jerks in the birding community. In my opinion they are a very tiny minority of an otherwise wonderful group of bird lovers that participate in the preservation efforts of birds and their ever shrinking habitat. Since this Arkansas Western Tanager is an apparent adult male, it has almost certainly spent one or more previous winters in the east and has demonstrated successful foraging and survival skills. I cannot cite papers on this subject, but I do know that closely related Summer Tanagers are very resourceful and can adapt to eating wild seed or dried berries, as well as winter insects when available. Again, I believe that this Western Tanager will not be distracted to any great degree by the playing of tapes. While we may not fully understand why some birds show up so far distant from their usual wintering grounds, I suspect it is the natural attempt that we see in almost all birds as they attempt to push the limits of where they can breed and where they can successfully winter. Many such "pioneer" (my word) birds will pay the ultimate price by reaching beyond what is possible for their species. Nowhere is this more evident than among western hummingbird species that attempt to winter across the northern tier of states. For those of you who have no way of knowing, Janine Perlman is a long time friend and associate who has assisted me for many years regarding the health and welfare of hummingbirds and passerines. I have the greatest respect for her skills as a rehabber...and I am grateful for her posts on Arbirds. Take care guys and good luck with your birding. Bob Sargent The Hummer/Bird Study Group, Inc. Clay, Alabama In a message dated 2/7/2010 8:14:02 A.M. Central Standard Time, jpandjf AT SWBELL.NET writes: I'm not a "serious" birder (or at least not a chaser); and I haven't looked into an issue I'd like to learn more about: I'm wondering about possible ill effects of playback and other disruptions, especially on a bird that is presumably struggling to survive---in this case, in temperatures and with a food supply that are far from optimal. I don't know whether the WETA is actually a good case in point or not. He has presumably been frequenting feeders for a few months. On the other hand I don't know what he's actually been eating, or whether his Little Rock diet is anywhere near his optimal (necessary?) winter diet of insects and fruits of southern Mexico and Central America. So---WETA or more generally---any takers? And/or can anyone point me to authoritative discussions in the birding literature? Janine Perlman Alexander Mt., Saline Co. Subject: Rare: Western Tanager From: Dan Scheiman <birddan AT comcast.net> Date: Sun, 7 Feb 2010 10:57:06 -0600 Dick Baxter saw the Western Tanager in the shrubs behind the church at 8 this morning. Dan Scheiman Little Rock, AR Subject: Birdies on the links From: Barry Haas <bhaas AT SBCGLOBAL.NET> Date: Sat, 6 Feb 2010 20:58:06 -0600 Dear ARBIRDers, My 92-year young Dad sent an article from the St. Petersburg Times (Florida) re an osprey nest with 3 eggs believed to be close to hatching: http://www.tampabay.com/news/environment/wildlife/osprey-chicks-due/1070585 There is also a live web cam on the nest for those who are interested: http://ospreynest.info/ Enjoy. From the deep woods just west of Little Rock, Barry Haas Subject: Re: Western Tanager From: Janine Perlman <jpandjf AT SWBELL.NET> Date: Sat, 6 Feb 2010 20:19:52 -0600 I'm not a "serious" birder (or at least not a chaser); and I haven't looked into an issue I'd like to learn more about: I'm wondering about possible ill effects of playback and other disruptions, especially on a bird that is presumably struggling to survive---in this case, in temperatures and with a food supply that are far from optimal. I don't know whether the WETA is actually a good case in point or not. He has presumably been frequenting feeders for a few months. On the other hand I don't know what he's actually been eating, or whether his Little Rock diet is anywhere near his optimal (necessary?) winter diet of insects and fruits of southern Mexico and Central America. So---WETA or more generally---any takers? And/or can anyone point me to authoritative discussions in the birding literature? Janine Perlman Alexander Mt., Saline Co. Subject: Re: SIGHTING: SPOTTED TOWHEE From: Dale Provost <dprovost AT SBCGLOBAL.NET> Date: Sat, 6 Feb 2010 19:57:28 -0600 Attached is link to photo of Spotted Towhee seen in Larry Witherspoon's backyard last weekend and also one of a Fox Sparrow (there were several of the latter). Sorry I didn't post sooner. Dale Provost http://www.pbase.com/daleprovost/spotted_towhee ----- Original Message ----- From: Bill Shepherd To: ARBIRD-L AT LISTSERV.UARK.EDU Sent: Thursday, February 04, 2010 4:03 PM Subject: Re: SIGHTING: SPOTTED TOWHEE Cheryle: The terms "sides" and "back" aren't precise enough for the purposes of this discussion. An Eastern Towhee should have one white patch on each wing at the very bases of a few of its primaries. Its upper wing coverts should be entirely dark (black or brown). The same goes for its scapulars. Only a Spotted Towhee will have white spots on its upper wing coverts (and no white anywhere on any of its primaries). A Spotted Towhee will have white on its scapulars too. A combination of these characters is indicative of an Eastern/Spotted Towhee hybrid. I hope this helps. Bill Shepherd Bill Shepherd 2805 Linden, Apt. 3 Little Rock, Arkansas 72205-5964 Stoneax63 AT hotmail.com (501) 375-3918 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Date: Wed, 3 Feb 2010 21:15:36 -0600 From: shalom AT CYBERBACK.COM Subject: Re: SIGHTING: SPOTTED TOWHEE To: ARBIRD-L AT LISTSERV.UARK.EDU We have some that are all with black, but a few have the spots on the back, but some with spots on top... I thought the spots were on the sides for the "spotted" (?) They are so pretty. We have so enjoyed them this "snow season"... cheryle sytsma vilonia ----- Original Message ----- From: David Oakley To: 'Cheryle Sytsma' Sent: Wednesday, February 03, 2010 11:57 AM Subject: RE: SIGHTING: SPOTTED TOWHEE Sure sounds like yours might be “Spotted” instead of Eastern. ----------------- David Oakley Springdale, AR gdosr AT cox.net From: The Birds of Arkansas Discussion List [mailto:ARBIRD-L AT LISTSERV.UARK.EDU] On Behalf Of Cheryle Sytsma Sent: Wednesday, February 03, 2010 10:11 AM To: ARBIRD-L AT LISTSERV.UARK.EDU Subject: Re: SIGHTING: SPOTTED TOWHEE A couple of our Eastern Towhees have prominent speckles on their backs from their wings... perhaps these could have also been showing these same speckles?? only a consideration... cheryle sytsma vilonia ----- Original Message ----- From: Larry Witherspoon To: ARBIRD-L AT LISTSERV.UARK.EDU Sent: Tuesday, February 02, 2010 9:00 AM Subject: SIGHTING: SPOTTED TOWHEE This morning as I was leaving for the job, the Spotted Towhee and several Fox Sparrows were busy having their breakfast along with the usual suspects. I hope it is still around this afternoon. Thanks, Larry Witherspoon Subject: Photos From: Robert Herron <r2herron AT GMAIL.COM> Date: Sat, 6 Feb 2010 19:39:53 -0600 I just posted some of my images of the Western Tanager seen in LR today to my website. http://www.pbase.com/rherron/westerntanager Hope you enjoy Robert Subject: Craighead Forest/Nature Center Today From: Mitchell Pruitt <mlpruitt24 AT YAHOO.COM> Date: Sat, 6 Feb 2010 14:30:44 -0800 This morning I went after the Red-breasted Merganser Ron Howard has been seeing at Craighead Lake for the past few days. It was there and pretty close to shore, but moved out further the longer I stood there. The feeders at the Nature Center were overloaded today, I even got a couple shots with more than one bird in the frame. Mitchell Pruitt Today's Shots: http://www.pbase.com/mpruitt/fallwinter_20092010 Location:    Crowley's Ridge Nature Center/Craighead Forest Observation date:    2/6/10 Number of species:    17 Canada Goose    50 Mallard    10 Red-breasted Merganser    1 Red-bellied Woodpecker    2 Downy Woodpecker    2 Blue Jay    2 Carolina Chickadee    2 Tufted Titmouse    6 Carolina Wren    1 Eastern Bluebird    12 Northern Mockingbird    1 Yellow-rumped Warbler (Myrtle)    1 Fox Sparrow (Red)    1 Song Sparrow    2 White-throated Sparrow    10 Dark-eyed Junco (Slate-colored)    5 Northern Cardinal    5 This report was generated automatically by eBird v2(http://ebird.org) Subject: lake dardanelle From: Kenny Nichols <kingbird AT ymail.com> Date: Sat, 6 Feb 2010 18:38:20 -0800 Dick Baxter birded Lake Dardanelle today with LaDonna and myself. Highlights were a first-cycle GLAUCOUS GULL, an adult LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL, a second cycle LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL and a SURF SCOTER. All were seen from Delaware Rec Area. Kenny Nichols Cabot, AR Subject: Rare: Western Tanager From: Dan Scheiman <birddan AT comcast.net> Date: Sat, 6 Feb 2010 19:06:35 -0600 To add to Jim's post and my earlier post, the male WESTERN TANAGER is behind the Holy Trinity Orthodox Church on Watt St. north of the intersection with Ohio St. in Little Rock. It flew between the bush at the beginning of the church's northern driveway and the trees and shrubs behind and to the south of the church. It last went down behind the shed. It would often sit for long periods of time in the open. When in hiding, only a few seconds of playback brought it right out. Once it even gave a few tanager sputter notes in reponse. If I read Birds of North America right then this is an adult male (older than 2) in definitive plumage (i.e. nonbreeding) that is just starting its definitive prealternate molt (going into breeding plumage). Prealternate molt begins in February. This bird is starting to show pale orange around the front of the face. It doesn't always show in photos, and lighting may play a role, but I definitely saw orange on this bird through my bins. http://www.pbase.com/birddan/image/121738583 http://www.pbase.com/birddan/image/121738584 http://www.pbase.com/birddan/image/121738585 http://www.pbase.com/birddan/image/121738586 This is the 10th state record. Life or state bird for all who saw it. Dan Scheiman Little Rock, AR Subject: Re: view recent rare bird submissions From: Arkansas Birder <arkansasbirder AT mac.com> Date: Sat, 6 Feb 2010 18:45:40 -0600 The Arkansas Birder RBA page contains a table and map with information regarding recent rare bird reports gleaned from ARBIRDS-L posts or sent directly to Arkansas Birder. The map has a marker for each rare bird providing the location and directions. The table includes contact information, date of first and most recent sighting, and a link to a map showing all reported sightings of the given species. Between the table and map is a link to recent eBird reports of birds rare in Arkansas. I have added a link, "Recently Reported to AAS," that points to the list of AAS rare bird submissions Lyndal just announced. If you don't have time to read all the posts and search multiple websites looking for rare birds to chase, try the Arkansas Birder RBA page. Dennis Braddy Little Rock, AR http://www.arkansasbirder.net "I never did give anybody hell. I just told the truth and they thought it was hell." - Harry Truman (no keyword) Conservation, habitat, behavior, distribution, abundance, migration, feeders, birdhouses, ... SIGHTINGS: Bird sightings (not rare), day lists, surveys, yard birds, trip reports FOS: First of season sightings RARE: Rare bird sightings (rare or rarer in AAS Field List) INFO: Spontaneous emissions of information on topics not covered elsewhere RFI: Requests for information (general, ARBIRD-L, bird identification, optics, subscriber polls) LINK: Links to photos, websites FOW: Fellowship of the Wings ANNOUNCEMENT: Announcements of field trips, meetings Subject: Re: Western Tanager Sighting From: Jim Dixon <jamesdixonlr AT att.net> Date: Sat, 6 Feb 2010 18:39:51 -0600 Here are some images of the bird with a bonus Red-tailed Hawk from earlier in the day. I want to say thanks to Ed and Dan for getting the word out, and especially Dottie for finding it again. State bird for me, life bird for Sam. Western Tanager http://jamesdixon.us/?page_id=4&g2_itemId=4241 http://jamesdixon.us/?page_id=4&g2_itemId=4244 http://jamesdixon.us/?page_id=4&g2_itemId=4238 http://jamesdixon.us/?page_id=4&g2_itemId=4235 http://jamesdixon.us/?page_id=4&g2_itemId=4232 http://jamesdixon.us/?page_id=4&g2_itemId=4247 Red-tailed Hawk http://jamesdixon.us/?page_id=4&g2_itemId=4223 Jim Dixon Little Rock, AR www.JamesDixon.us See my recent images at http://JamesDixon.us/?page_id=4&g2_itemId=1814 Dan Scheiman wrote: > Dottie Boyles just called me. She just saw the Western Tanager behind > a Greek Orthodox Chruch off a side street off Illinois very close to > Biscayne. I'm on my way! > > Dan Scheiman > Little Rock, AR > Subject: Western Tanager Sighting From: Dan Scheiman <birddan AT comcast.net> Date: Sat, 6 Feb 2010 15:58:31 -0600 Dottie Boyles just called me. She just saw the Western Tanager behind a Greek Orthodox Chruch off a side street off Illinois very close to Biscayne. I'm on my way! Dan Scheiman Little Rock, AR Subject: Western Tanager - NO From: Dan Scheiman <birddan AT comcast.net> Date: Sat, 6 Feb 2010 13:02:50 -0600 Samantha Holschbach and I searched for the Western Tanager from 10:15 to 11:45 without success. The Dixons and Robert Herron were with us most of the time. We walked along the eastern portion of Leatrice as well as parallel roads, playing vocalizations as we went. Dan Scheiman Little Rock, AR Subject: Photos From: Robert Herron <r2herron AT GMAIL.COM> Date: Fri, 5 Feb 2010 21:22:56 -0600 I went birding this morning at Lake Maumelle well I was really shutterbugging. But I did count 32 common loons in bufflehead bay area. Some were in and around the sailboats that were tied up to the piers. Anyway I have posted of the photos that I took to my website. Hope you enjoy. http://www.pbase.com/rherron/lakemaumelleloons Thanks Robert Subject: view recent rare bird submissions From: Lyndal York <lrbluejay AT SBCGLOBAL.NET> Date: Fri, 5 Feb 2010 15:16:26 -0800 If you would like to see seasonal rare/unusual/out of season records that are being submitted  for inclusion in the Arkansas Audubon Society Rare Bird Database, go to http://www.arbirds.org/rare_submissions.asp or visit the home page at www.arbirds.org and look for the link under "Bird Records".  These records will be vetted by the AAS Rare Bird Committee before being added to the master database.   Lyndal York Webmster - AAS Subject: Lake Maumelle From: Kenny Nichols <kingbird AT ymail.com> Date: Fri, 5 Feb 2010 17:43:00 -0800 LaDonna and I birded Lake Maumelle this afternoon and counted 45 Common Loons and 2 RED-THROATED LOONS. The smaller loons were seen from the parking/ picnic area on the west end of the lake. Kenny Nichols Cabot, AR Subject: Kingfisher From: Teresa Mathews <landerson005 AT CENTURYTEL.NET> Date: Thu, 4 Feb 2010 18:01:34 -0500 Saw a very soaked KIngfisher sitting above a pond smaller than my car on my way home tonight. Hwy 124 between Shiloh Rd and Center Valley Rd, Russellville, AR. I usually see them by running water, could it had been a migrant lost in the area and he just sit down near the only water (other than the rain) that he/she could see? Very unusual sight. Teresa, Hector,AR Subject: Re: SIGHTING: SPOTTED TOWHEE From: Cheryle Sytsma <shalom AT CYBERBACK.COM> Date: Thu, 4 Feb 2010 16:53:36 -0600 Sorry, Bill and everyone. I knew someone was going to say this. I have looked through our pictures, and all I find is definitely an Eastern towhee. But I did see, with Binos, one with more... spots... IF...he comes back I will try to photograph him. Have not seen ANY Towhees since Sunday, when the snow/ice was in control around here. cheryle sytsma vilonia ----- Original Message ----- From: Bill Shepherd To: ARBIRD-L AT LISTSERV.UARK.EDU Sent: Thursday, February 04, 2010 4:03 PM Subject: Re: SIGHTING: SPOTTED TOWHEE Cheryle: The terms "sides" and "back" aren't precise enough for the purposes of this discussion. An Eastern Towhee should have one white patch on each wing at the very bases of a few of its primaries. Its upper wing coverts should be entirely dark (black or brown). The same goes for its scapulars. Only a Spotted Towhee will have white spots on its upper wing coverts (and no white anywhere on any of its primaries). A Spotted Towhee will have white on its scapulars too. A combination of these characters is indicative of an Eastern/Spotted Towhee hybrid. I hope this helps. Bill Shepherd Bill Shepherd 2805 Linden, Apt. 3 Little Rock, Arkansas 72205-5964 Stoneax63 AT hotmail.com (501) 375-3918 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Date: Wed, 3 Feb 2010 21:15:36 -0600 From: shalom AT CYBERBACK.COM Subject: Re: SIGHTING: SPOTTED TOWHEE To: ARBIRD-L AT LISTSERV.UARK.EDU We have some that are all with black, but a few have the spots on the back, but some with spots on top... I thought the spots were on the sides for the "spotted" (?) They are so pretty. We have so enjoyed them this "snow season"... cheryle sytsma vilonia ----- Original Message ----- From: David Oakley To: 'Cheryle Sytsma' Sent: Wednesday, February 03, 2010 11:57 AM Subject: RE: SIGHTING: SPOTTED TOWHEE Sure sounds like yours might be “Spotted” instead of Eastern. ----------------- David Oakley Springdale, AR gdosr AT cox.net From: The Birds of Arkansas Discussion List [mailto:ARBIRD-L AT LISTSERV.UARK.EDU] On Behalf Of Cheryle Sytsma Sent: Wednesday, February 03, 2010 10:11 AM To: ARBIRD-L AT LISTSERV.UARK.EDU Subject: Re: SIGHTING: SPOTTED TOWHEE A couple of our Eastern Towhees have prominent speckles on their backs from their wings... perhaps these could have also been showing these same speckles?? only a consideration... cheryle sytsma vilonia ----- Original Message ----- From: Larry Witherspoon To: ARBIRD-L AT LISTSERV.UARK.EDU Sent: Tuesday, February 02, 2010 9:00 AM Subject: SIGHTING: SPOTTED TOWHEE This morning as I was leaving for the job, the Spotted Towhee and several Fox Sparrows were busy having their breakfast along with the usual suspects. I hope it is still around this afternoon. Thanks, Larry Witherspoon Subject: Rare- Western Tanager From: Laster/Roark <elaster523 AT SBCGLOBAL.NET> Date: Fri, 5 Feb 2010 07:02:46 -0800 An adult male Western Tanager has been confirmed in W. Little Rock. For health reasons, the property owner does not want to disclose the exact location. In trying to balance the request of the property owner against the desire of others to see the bird, I offer the following: The bird has not been a consistent visitor to the property anyway and I have seen him west of Biscayne Dr. on Leatrice Dr.. He is undoubtedly visiting other feeding stations in the area, I just don’t know where. He has been attracted to running water, but with the constant rain of the last 3 days and water flowing everywhere, that’s not likely to be of any help. He does like suet. So if a suet feeder can be found in the area it would bear watching. Good luck, Ed Laster Little Rock Subject: Re: SIGHTING: SPOTTED TOWHEE From: Bill Shepherd <stoneax63 AT hotmail.com> Date: Thu, 4 Feb 2010 16:03:00 -0600 Cheryle: The terms "sides" and "back" aren't precise enough for the purposes of this discussion. An Eastern Towhee should have one white patch on each wing at the very bases of a few of its primaries. Its upper wing coverts should be entirely dark (black or brown). The same goes for its scapulars. Only a Spotted Towhee will have white spots on its upper wing coverts (and no white anywhere on any of its primaries). A Spotted Towhee will have white on its scapulars too. A combination of these characters is indicative of an Eastern/Spotted Towhee hybrid. I hope this helps. Bill Shepherd Bill Shepherd 2805 Linden, Apt. 3 Little Rock, Arkansas 72205-5964 Stoneax63 AT hotmail.com (501) 375-3918 Date: Wed, 3 Feb 2010 21:15:36 -0600 From: shalom AT CYBERBACK.COM Subject: Re: SIGHTING: SPOTTED TOWHEE To: ARBIRD-L AT LISTSERV.UARK.EDU We have some that are all with black, but a few have the spots on the back, but some with spots on top... I thought the spots were on the sides for the "spotted" (?) They are so pretty. We have so enjoyed them this "snow season"... cheryle sytsma vilonia ----- Original Message ----- From: David Oakley To: 'Cheryle Sytsma' Sent: Wednesday, February 03, 2010 11:57 AM Subject: RE: SIGHTING: SPOTTED TOWHEE Sure sounds like yours might be “Spotted” instead of Eastern. ----------------- David Oakley Springdale, AR gdosr AT cox.net From: The Birds of Arkansas Discussion List [mailto:ARBIRD-L AT LISTSERV.UARK.EDU] On Behalf Of Cheryle Sytsma Sent: Wednesday, February 03, 2010 10:11 AM To: ARBIRD-L AT LISTSERV.UARK.EDU Subject: Re: SIGHTING: SPOTTED TOWHEE A couple of our Eastern Towhees have prominent speckles on their backs from their wings... perhaps these could have also been showing these same speckles?? only a consideration... cheryle sytsma vilonia ----- Original Message ----- From: Larry Witherspoon To: ARBIRD-L AT LISTSERV.UARK.EDU Sent: Tuesday, February 02, 2010 9:00 AM Subject: SIGHTING: SPOTTED TOWHEE This morning as I was leaving for the job, the Spotted Towhee and several Fox Sparrows were busy having their breakfast along with the usual suspects. I hope it is still around this afternoon. Thanks, Larry Witherspoon Subject: Crittenden Co. Swan From: "Jeff R. Wilson" <OLCOOT1 AT aol.com> Date: Thu, 4 Feb 2010 15:53:31 EST Feb. 4, 2010 Crittenden Co. Ark. The immature Tundra Swan was still feeding at its regular location, today at noon . It was on the east side of the eastern most wet field along the road. Here are Sumershoe and Walko's directions: >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Location: Just west of West Memphis, AR, I-40 Exit #271/Hwy 147. Just about 100 feet north of the exit on Hwy 147, there is an unmarked road to the right. This road runs parallel to the interstate. Go back east on that road about a mile and there are several flooded fields just north of the road that are full of ducks. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> It was a fit day out for ducks and swans plus an Ol'Coot or so. Good Birding !!! Jeff R. Wilson / TLBA 6300 Memphis-Arlington Road Bartlett, TN 38135 http://www.pbase.com/ol_coot/ What is this feathered thing that lifts my heart to the heavens. Subject: Woolsey WP Wednesday afternoon From: Sara Caulk <sara_caulk AT YAHOO.COM> Date: Wed, 3 Feb 2010 22:18:57 -0800 Bob and I donned our muck boots and fowl (heh heh) weather gear and headed over to Woolsey after lunch today as it looks like the next couple of days are going to be yucky for being outdoors.  The actual temp on the thermometer was deceiving as it felt a lot colder than it really was - low 40's- ... and then the sun disappeared for the rest of the afternoon so it looked cold as well. It was a fun day for us, tho, as we both got a couple life birds - a Harris's sparrow and also a Field sparrow.  The Northern harriers (we saw 3) were very busy flying over the fields and occasionally scoring some food, and there were at least 5 American kestrels (2 were feeling a bit amorous as were 2 of the 3 Red-tailed hawks we saw).  We also saw a couple other sparrows that were too far away for the for us to positively i.d. Lots of Red-winged blackbirds, 1 Brewer's blackbird, hordes of Eastern meadowlarks, starlings and cowbirds, a Great blue heron, a flock of 19 Canada geese, a flock of 8 unidentified ducks, 3 Flickers (1 female and 2 males). We were hoping to catch a glimpse of a short-eared owl. but it was probably a bit early for them to be out and about. SaraFayetteville Here's the complete list: Location:     Woolsey Wet Prairie Observation date:     2/3/10 Number of species:     18 Canada Goose - Branta canadensis     19 duck sp. - Anatinae sp.     X Great Blue Heron - Ardea herodias     1 Turkey Vulture - Cathartes aura     2 Northern Harrier - Circus cyaneus     3 Red-shouldered Hawk - Buteo lineatus     3 American Kestrel - Falco sparverius     5 Northern Flicker - Colaptes auratus     3 American Crow - Corvus brachyrhynchos     5 American Robin - Turdus migratorius     1 European Starling - Sturnus vulgaris     X Field Sparrow - Spizella pusilla     1 White-throated Sparrow - Zonotrichia albicollis     3 Harris's Sparrow - Zonotrichia querula     1 Dark-eyed Junco (Slate-colored) - Junco hyemalis hyemalis/carolinensis     X sparrow sp. - Emberizidae sp.     2 Northern Cardinal - Cardinalis cardinalis     1 Red-winged Blackbird - Agelaius phoeniceus     7 Eastern Meadowlark - Sturnella magna     15 Brewer's Blackbird - Euphagus cyanocephalus     1 I see I forgot to put the cowbirds on this ebird list so I'll need to edit ebird.  We had a flock show up at our feeders today so I guess I tried to block them out of my mind when I entered my data for Woolsey! Subject: Re: SIGHTING: SPOTTED TOWHEE From: Cheryle Sytsma <shalom AT CYBERBACK.COM> Date: Wed, 3 Feb 2010 21:15:36 -0600 We have some that are all with black, but a few have the spots on the back, but some with spots on top... I thought the spots were on the sides for the "spotted" (?) They are so pretty. We have so enjoyed them this "snow season"... cheryle sytsma vilonia ----- Original Message ----- From: David Oakley To: 'Cheryle Sytsma' Sent: Wednesday, February 03, 2010 11:57 AM Subject: RE: SIGHTING: SPOTTED TOWHEE Sure sounds like yours might be "Spotted" instead of Eastern. ----------------- David Oakley Springdale, AR gdosr AT cox.net From: The Birds of Arkansas Discussion List [mailto:ARBIRD-L AT LISTSERV.UARK.EDU] On Behalf Of Cheryle Sytsma Sent: Wednesday, February 03, 2010 10:11 AM To: ARBIRD-L AT LISTSERV.UARK.EDU Subject: Re: SIGHTING: SPOTTED TOWHEE A couple of our Eastern Towhees have prominent speckles on their backs from their wings... perhaps these could have also been showing these same speckles?? only a consideration... cheryle sytsma vilonia ----- Original Message ----- From: Larry Witherspoon To: ARBIRD-L AT LISTSERV.UARK.EDU Sent: Tuesday, February 02, 2010 9:00 AM Subject: SIGHTING: SPOTTED TOWHEE This morning as I was leaving for the job, the Spotted Towhee and several Fox Sparrows were busy having their breakfast along with the usual suspects. I hope it is still around this afternoon. Thanks, Larry Witherspoon Subject: Re: Greater Roadrunner From: David Orr <david.orr AT COX.NET> Date: Wed, 3 Feb 2010 17:44:35 -0600 When I was growing up I spent summers in the Texas Hill Country, where roadrunners were quite commonly seen. In recent years, though, these birds have become rare, at least as compared to their former abundance. Texas horned frogs (we called them horny toads) are also quite scarce. Does anyone have info on why this is? David Orr Fayetteville Subject: Greater Roadrunner From: David Oakley <gdosr AT cox.net> Date: Wed, 3 Feb 2010 17:32:48 -0600 Today on my way up 71B in Springdale I saw a Greater Roadrunner pecking in the grass beside the Chick-Fil-A located directly across from the NWA mall! What a high traffic area this is to see this bird nonchalantly seeking something to eat. ------------------ G. David Oakley 4779 Cedar Ridge Drive Springdale, AR 72764 479/770-2153 479/422-6588 (cell) 479/770-2366 (fax) gdosr AT cox.net Speak your mind ..... but ride a fast horse! Subject: 2 NEW Searches for Jane Anderson! From: MyLife Search Alert <mylife AT MAIL.MYLIFE.COM> Date: Wed, 3 Feb 2010 14:59:29 -0800 URGENT: New Searches for your name! from MyLife.com - Life Changes. Keep in Touch. WHO'S SEARCHING FOR YOU? 2 New Searches for Jane Anderson as of January 25, 2010 in your age range. _______________________________________________ >> View Details as a Premium Member Click Here to Subscribe: http://mt.mylife.com/tracker?action=click&eun=zn6dmsVsLm5HBVIpcloDcw**&mid=-56&tu=peopleLookingFor.do%3FemailWSFY=true%26school=0%26gradyear=0%26plf=0%26fn=Jane%26ln=anderson%26age=57%26ss=0%26mn= _______________________________________________ 1. Subscribe to View Name, 59, Portland, OR 2. 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Subject: Please ignore last post From: Kimberly Smith <kgsmith AT uark.edu> Date: Wed, 3 Feb 2010 17:09:02 -0600 Some spam sneaked through. please ignore ********************************************************* Kimberly G. Smith University Professor of Biological Sciences Department of Biological Sciences University of Arkansas Fayetteville, AR 72701 479-575-6359 fax:479-575-4010 email: kgsmith AT uark.edu ********************************************************* Subject: RFI: News of Members needed for Arkansas Birds Newsletter From: Kelly Chitwood <kchitwood AT CABLELYNX.COM> Date: Wed, 3 Feb 2010 09:39:23 -0600 On behalf of our lovely Mrs. Loice Lacy, would you please begin sending her information about members? For newbies, this can entail but isn't exclusive to birding trips, rare bird event, personal events, public awards to name a few. Her email address is: loicelacy AT att.net The newsletter submission deadline is February 15. I welcome your input, please continue to send me photos or announcements, information, articles, artwork and/or poetry to be considered for usage in Arkansas Birds. Thank you for your help and I look forward to hearing from you. Cheers and good birding! Kelly Chitwood, editor Camden, AR Subject: Re: SIGHTING: SPOTTED TOWHEE From: Cheryle Sytsma <shalom AT CYBERBACK.COM> Date: Wed, 3 Feb 2010 10:10:39 -0600 A couple of our Eastern Towhees have prominent speckles on their backs from their wings... perhaps these could have also been showing these same speckles?? only a consideration... cheryle sytsma vilonia ----- Original Message ----- From: Larry Witherspoon To: ARBIRD-L AT LISTSERV.UARK.EDU Sent: Tuesday, February 02, 2010 9:00 AM Subject: SIGHTING: SPOTTED TOWHEE This morning as I was leaving for the job, the Spotted Towhee and several Fox Sparrows were busy having their breakfast along with the usual suspects. I hope it is still around this afternoon. Thanks, Larry Witherspoon Subject: Red Slough Bird Survey - Feb. 2 From: David Arbour <arbour AT WINDSTREAM.NET> Date: Tue, 2 Feb 2010 20:42:56 -0600 Berlin Heck and I surveyed birds today at Red Slough and found 75 species. Highlight was finding a Green Heron in the ditch along Mudline Road. Also, six species of shorebirds are wintering in unit 30. Here is a list of all found: Canada Goose - 7 Wood Duck - 4 Gadwall - 1035 American Wigeon - 3 Mallard - 70 Northern Shoveler - 168 Northern Pintail - 2 Green-winged Teal - 232 Redhead - 1 Ring-necked Duck - 575 Ruddy Duck - 6 Pied-billed Grebe - 32 American White Pelican - 9 Double-crested Cormorant - 21 Great Blue Heron - 13 Green Heron - 1 Black Vulture - 5 Turkey Vulture - 24 Bald Eagle - 1 imm. Northern Harrier - 8 Sharp-shinned Hawk - 1 Cooper's Hawk - 2 Red-tailed Hawk - 11 American Kestrel - 2 American Coot - 1365 Killdeer - 3 Greater Yellowlegs - 33 Least Sandpiper - 44 Dunlin - 6 Long-billed Dowitcher - 41 Wilson's Snipe - 131 Mourning Dove - 19 Belted Kingfisher - 2 Red-bellied Woodpecker - 5 Downy Woodpecker - 1 Hairy Woodpecker - 1 Northern Flicker - 3 Pileated Woodpecker - 1 Eastern Phoebe - 7 Loggerhead Shrike - 3 Blue Jay - 6 American Crow - 121 Fish Crow - 15 Carolina Chickadee - 8 Tufted Titmouse - 3 Brown Creeper - 1 Carolina Wren - 5 House Wren - 2 Winter Wren - 1 Marsh Wren - 1 Golden-crowned Kinglet - 2 Ruby-crowned Kinglet - 5 Eastern Bluebird - 13 American Robin - 22 Northern Mockingbird - 7 Brown Thrasher - 3 American Pipit - 1 Cedar Waxwing - 27 Orange-crowned Warbler - 3 Yellow-rumped Warbler - 4 Pine Warbler - 2 Field Sparrow - 5 Savannah Sparrow - 9 Le Conte's Sparrow - 14 Fox Sparrow - 4 Song Sparrow - 13 Swamp Sparrow - 9 White-throated Sparrow - 7 White-crowned Sparrow - 12 Lapland Longspur - 15 Northern Cardinal - 10 Red-winged Blackbird - 43 Eastern Meadowlark - 91 Rusty Blackbird - 9 Brewer's Blackbird - 38 Good birding! David Arbour De Queen, Arkansas Visit the Red Slough Website: http://www.fs.fed.us/r8/ouachita/natural-resources/redslough/ Personal Photo Galleries: http://www.pbase.com/sloughbirder Subject: Spotted Towhee -No From: Donna Haynes <birdiehaynes AT YAHOO.COM> Date: Tue, 2 Feb 2010 18:44:39 -0600 My mom, my son and I spent 2 hours visiting the Witherspoons this afternoon. The Spotted Towhee was a no-show for us. We did enjoy many other birds, including 3 Fox Sparrows, Ruby-Crowned Kinglet and Pine Warblers among the host of birds. The company was wonderful and their home beautiful. Many thanks to the Witherspoons for opening their home and entertaining my son while we staked out at the window! Donna Haynes West Pulaski Co. Subject: Crittenden Co. AR Tundra Swan From: "Jeff R. Wilson" <OLCOOT1 AT aol.com> Date: Tue, 2 Feb 2010 18:44:30 EST Feb. 2, 2010 Crittenden Co. AR I had a late appointment down town and hopped across the bridge to check and see if the Tundra Swan reported by Scott Sumershoe and photographed by Jay Walko might still be around. At 2:15, I had the bird in the scope near the eastern most duck blind. There were thousands of ducks of 9 species in the surrounding flooded fields. I got a few ID photos showing the ID points well. If interested try: _http://www.pbase.com/ol_coot/image/121629499_ (http://www.pbase.com/ol_coot/image/121629499) Good Birding !!! Jeff R. Wilson / TLBA 6300 Memphis-Arlington Road Bartlett, TN 38135 http://www.pbase.com/ol_coot/ What is this feathered thing that lifts my heart to the heavens. Subject: Decatur white bird From: Jacque Brown <bluebird2 AT cox.net> Date: Tue, 2 Feb 2010 17:17:32 -0600 I went to Decatur today to see the white bird that one of the locals had at her house for the last few days. The bird was a no show. She did have both Mockingbirds and Blue Jays coming into eat fruit. FYI Mockingbirds like Mandarin oranges. Her white bird had a long tail and no crest , the beak was smaller than the Blue Jay and she said it was kind of fat. After talking for a while and seeing both birds mentioned together she thinks it is most likely a Mockingbird. Being white would make it appear larger and being cold would make it more likely to be fluffy. I asked her to call me if it returns. She had many bird books and knew all the birds coming to her yard. She told me she has seen Yellow-headed Blackbirds and Quail up in her yard. -- Jacque Brown Centerton Benton, Co AR, bluebird2 AT cox.net Subject: Horned lark at Craig Fish Hatchery, Centerton, AR From: Scott Michaud <mazhude AT HOTMAIL.COM> Date: Tue, 2 Feb 2010 08:06:12 -0500 There were a dozen horned lark at the Craig Fish Hatchery yesterday in Centerton, AR. Many Canada geese, mallards, gadwall, and green-winged teal as well. A single wigeon as well. Wilson's snipe and killdeer in the snow. A pair of red-tailed hawks and a pair of kestrels in the surrounding trees. -- Scott Michaud Fayetteville, AR _________________________________________________________________ Hotmail: Trusted email with Microsoft’s powerful SPAM protection. http://clk.atdmt.com/GBL/go/201469226/direct/01/ Subject: SIGHTING: SPOTTED TOWHEE From: Larry Witherspoon <ldspoon AT SBCGLOBAL.NET> Date: Tue, 2 Feb 2010 09:00:27 -0600 This morning as I was leaving for the job, the Spotted Towhee and several Fox Sparrows were busy having their breakfast along with the usual suspects. I hope it is still around this afternoon. Thanks, Larry Witherspoon Subject: Craighead Forest Park Today From: Mitchell Pruitt <mlpruitt24 AT YAHOO.COM> Date: Mon, 1 Feb 2010 15:12:26 -0800 By today at Craighead, all of yesterday's waterfowl activity has died down. But there were about 6 Golden-crowned Kinglets at Acess 5 that didn't mind having their picture taken. At some points that got as close as 5 feet! It was an amazing experience for me and my little sister who loved the 'cute and fuzzy' little birds. Kinglets: http://www.pbase.com/mpruitt/fallwinter_20092010 Subject: Swan near West Memphis From: Beverly Sullivan <damebev AT AOL.COM> Date: Mon, 1 Feb 2010 18:11:01 -0500 I just got back from checking for the trumpeter swan that Jay Walko saw near West Memphis. I checked the fields on Boling Rd and it was not there. I looked over areas nearby just in case but could not find it anywhere in the area. There were still a lot of ducks there with a lot of them being mallards, shovelers and northern pintails. I have to look at all my pictures to make sure of some of them. There were also some gulls at one section, but no swan. So for now, until we hear differently, I would not say come to my neck of the woods for a swan. If Jay has seen it, hopefully he will put it in again. The weather was such and our driveway iced so I was not able to get out there until today. Beverly Sullivan Marion, AR (which is almost the same town as West Memphis.) Subject: Re: Sighting: White Mystery Bird, Decatur From: Jacque Brown <bluebird2 AT cox.net> Date: Mon, 1 Feb 2010 18:00:56 -0600 I called Andrea and made arrangements to go over and meet her after work tomorrow. I'll take the camera .just in case it's something important. Jacque Brown ---- Dan Scheiman wrote: ============= Andrea Stiner in Decatur called with a mystery bird in her yard. It is all white with black legs, black beak, and black eye. It has some gray around the face. It aggressively chases other birds and eats fruit but not seed. I suggested a leucistic mockingbird. That didn't seem to satisfy her. She would be happy to have anyone over to see this bird and tell her what it is. She's also interested in learning more about birds and meeting other birders so this is a good chance for Northwest AR Audubon to add a member through a good deed. You can call her at 479- 752-3216. Dan Scheiman Little Rock, AR -- Jacque Brown Centerton Benton, Co AR, bluebird2 AT cox.net Subject: Re: Sighting: White Mystery Bird, Decatur From: Jacque Brown <bluebird2 AT cox.net> Date: Mon, 1 Feb 2010 17:55:33 -0600 I don't live too far from Decatur, I'll give her a call. ---- Dan Scheiman wrote: ============= Andrea Stiner in Decatur called with a mystery bird in her yard. It is all white with black legs, black beak, and black eye. It has some gray around the face. It aggressively chases other birds and eats fruit but not seed. I suggested a leucistic mockingbird. That didn't seem to satisfy her. She would be happy to have anyone over to see this bird and tell her what it is. She's also interested in learning more about birds and meeting other birders so this is a good chance for Northwest AR Audubon to add a member through a good deed. You can call her at 479- 752-3216. Dan Scheiman Little Rock, AR -- Jacque Brown Centerton Benton, Co AR, bluebird2 AT cox.net Subject: Sighting: White Mystery Bird, Decatur From: Dan Scheiman <birddan AT comcast.net> Date: Mon, 1 Feb 2010 23:43:22 +0000 Andrea Stiner in Decatur called with a mystery bird in her yard. It is all white with black legs, black beak, and black eye. It has some gray around the face. It aggressively chases other birds and eats fruit but not seed. I suggested a leucistic mockingbird. That didn't seem to satisfy her. She would be happy to have anyone over to see this bird and tell her what it is. She's also interested in learning more about birds and meeting other birders so this is a good chance for Northwest AR Audubon to add a member through a good deed. You can call her at 479- 752-3216. Dan Scheiman Little Rock, AR Subject: Snow and birds From: Sally Jo Gibson <sjogibson AT WINDSTREAM.NET> Date: Mon, 1 Feb 2010 16:05:21 -0600 I count birds Saturday & Sundays for "Project Feeder Watch" so have two days worth of birds to report. I know they are all regulars, but I enjoy watching them, no matter the color, species, race, rare, common, etc. My fish pond was almost covered in about 12+ inches of snow. However, the recycled water continues to tumble from the small waterfall and spout from the frogs mouth. Over the last two days, Saturday and Sunday, the following birds were at the backyard feeders (black oil sunflower seed, shelled sunflower seed, suet (Bo Verser's brand), safflower seeds, peanuts and white millet, all in separate feeders. J. O. used to tell me that I could feed out a hog on what I spent of bird seed! Blue Jay Cardinal Carolina Wren (pair) Downy (pair) Field Sparrow Flicker Goldfinch (numbers down considerably from previous years, only a total of 6) House Finch Junco Mockingbird Mourning Dove Red-bellied Woodpecker Red-winged Blackbird Robin Song Sparrow Starling Titmouse Towhee (pair that lives close by) White Breasted Nuthatch White-crowned Sparrow White-throated Sparrow Yellow-rumped Warbler (pair consistently show up) And, today, 4 Northern Bobwhite. I've been seeing 2 each afternoon, but 4 showed today. A Sharp-shinned Hawk showed up earlier in the week. He may be a regular visitor as in past years, but I've only seen him once this winter. Sally Jo Gibson 512 Yorkshire Cove Harrison, Arkansas 72601-4655 sjogibson AT windstream.net Home: 870-741-5805 Cell: 870-688-9950 Car: 870-414-1094 Subject: Norhern Harriers From: JoAnne Rife <RifeJA AT AOL.COM> Date: Mon, 1 Feb 2010 15:54:36 EST In view of David Chapman's post, I talked to a resident of Marion County Saturday...a former student in whom I have confidence. He owns a large tract of land near Pyatt... he commented then that he had been surprised by the large number of Harriers he had been seeing there in the last few days.. I don't remember the number..if anyone really needs to know I could get it..but it fits into the picture.. JoAnne Rife in the Arkansas Ozarks Subject: Re: Grackles and Squirrel Nests From: Janine Perlman <jpandjf AT SWBELL.NET> Date: Mon, 1 Feb 2010 14:46:34 -0600 Karen, that's really interesting! According to the old-but-never-obsolete Martin, Zim and Nelson, grackles do indeed eat vertebrates, including mice. In my experience they're highly intelligent, and it wouldn't be surprising if they took advantage of (or created) "unusual" feeding opportunities. Thanks for sharing that neat observation. Janine Perlman Alexander Mt., Saline Co. ----- Original Message ----- From: Karen Holliday To: ARBIRD-L AT LISTSERV.UARK.EDU Sent: Sunday, January 31, 2010 10:23 PM Subject: Grackles and Squirrel Nests Last weekend I observed very strange behavior. Suddenly, I spotted a lot of leaves falling in my backyard. Got the binoculars and checked the green space in the backyard. Two of the squirrel nests in the trees behind the house were under attack! A flock of grackles were attacking the nests. They were tearing the leaves out and throwing them in every direction. They seemed intent on digging into the center of the nest. They didn't stop until the fragile leaf nests were in shambles. Were they looking for baby squirrels to eat? Karen Holliday Maumelle, Pulaski Co. Subject: Insect wings on the snow From: Joyce Hartmann <hart AT ARTELCO.COM> Date: Mon, 1 Feb 2010 11:20:08 -0600 While x-country skiing (yes! In Arkansas!) our woodland trails among tall pines, cedars and mixed hardwoods, Bob and I noticed a continual trail of insect wings lying on top of the snow next to our ski trail: a good sign that birds are finding insects among the trees even in this cold weather. We saw a pair of wood ducks fly over; seems early but it's time to get the wood duck boxes ready. The screech owl has taken over one to roost in. Bob says he will make some more. It is hard for them to find natural cavities for nesting. Our feeders are busy, just like everyone else's. We've seen more Fox Sparrows at our feeders than ever before, probably a half dozen at one time.lots of White-throated Sparrows, and an occasional Song and Chipping Sparrow nearby. We counted 13 Cardinals at one time at one feeder site, beautiful color in the snow. Have seen Red-shouldered and Sharp-shinned Hawks stalk and make swoops but the brush piles and implanted cedar trees gave cover as those bright Cardinals went deeper and deeper into them. Four female Red-winged Blackbirds joined the M. Doves and other ground feeders. There are just lots of Goldfinches, Purple Finches, Juncos, Bluejays, and the usual, with their unique posturings to assert their rights to the food. Lots of robins roosting in our woodlands at night. Our crow family still allows us to live here.they seem to find plenty of food in nearby woodlands, meadows and pastures. I've read other posts that said Goldfinches prefer the sunflower seeds over the Nygra thistle this year; ours do, too; guessing the quality of the seed is not as good as in years past? Less oil, or ? Joyce Hartmann Clinton AR hart AT artelco.com www.joycehartmann.com Subject: A little late, but... From: Sally Jo Gibson <sjogibson AT WINDSTREAM.NET> Date: Mon, 1 Feb 2010 09:51:52 -0600 Dorothy (daughter-in-law) and I made a trip to Louisiana and Mississippi January 21-25 to visit relatives and do some genealogy research. Of course, we birded all along the way. I took a lot of sorry pictures in hopes of id'ing those birds that weren't quite close enough to see well. Arkansas birds seen on Jan. 21 and Jan 25: Most of the following were seen in South Arkansas, Rice fields especially, around Lake Village and north of Eudora. American Coot American Crow Anhinga Belted Kingfisher Canada Geese Canvasback Common Grackle Cormorant Cowbird Eastern Bluebird Eurasian Collared Dove Gadwall Great Blue Heron Great Egret Greater White-fronted Geese House Sparrow Killdeer Loggerhead Shrike Mallard Mississippi Kite Mockingbird Northern Harrier Pied-billed Grebe PINTAIL Red-tailed Hawk Red-winged Blackbird Ring-Billed Gull Rock Dove Ruddy Duck Snow Geese (Thousands) Song Sparrow Speckle Bellies Starling Turkey Vulture White Pelican (at the Lake Village Visitor Center - a great place to stop) Sally Jo Gibson 512 Yorkshire Cove Harrison, Arkansas 72601-4655 sjogibson AT windstream.net Home: 870-741-5805 Cell: 870-688-9950 Car: 870-414-1094 Subject: PILEATED WOODPECKERS From: randall mann <randy__mann AT SBCGLOBAL.NET> Date: Sun, 31 Jan 2010 17:49:09 -0800 There are pileated woodpeckers in Greenland area, and Fayetteville has deer just two blocks behind countycourt house so why not pileated woodpeckers Subject: Re: MORE OF THE SAME From: Craig Provost <craig-daleprovost AT SBCGLOBAL.NET> Date: Sun, 31 Jan 2010 17:45:02 -0600 Much thanks to Larry and Desiree for again graciously opening their lovely home, this time to Dale and me to see the Spotted Towhee and numerous Fox Sparrows; Juncos; Northern Cardinals; White-throated Sparrows; Morning Doves; and 1 Downy Woodpecker; Yellow-rumped Warbler; & Pine Warbler. All in just 30 minutes! Plus the pleasure of their meditative backyard garden, while listening to the relaxing sound of a water fountain in the comfort of some very nice chairs in a comfortable warm room with great viewing! Even greater that it was a state bird only 3 miles from our home. Peace! Craig (and Dale) Provost _____ From: The Birds of Arkansas Discussion List [mailto:ARBIRD-L AT LISTSERV.UARK.EDU] On Behalf Of Larry Witherspoon Sent: Saturday, January 30, 2010 9:05 AM To: ARBIRD-L AT LISTSERV.UARK.EDU Subject: [ARBIRD-L] MORE OF THE SAME Good morning, The Spotted Towhee, the Fox Sparrows, and many birds are here again this morning. Desiree and I would like to invite anyone who would like to see the Towhees and the other birds to the home. It is nice and warm inside. Please be very careful if you do. Maybe later the streets will be in better shape. Call us at 501-603-0016 or 501 681-1097 Thanks, Larry Witherspoon 6701 Pleasant Place L.R., AR 72205