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20 Nov merlin and juncos ["krukab2002" ] 20 Nov Hawk ["canadianrobin2003" ] 20 Nov RBA Victoria, BC Fri Nov 20 ["Rick Schortinghuis" ] 20 Nov Parksville Bird Habitat/Road Issue Update ["empidonax307" ] 19 Nov Parksville Bird Habitat Threatened by Proposed Road Expansion ["empidonax307" ] 19 Nov Parksville Bird Habitat Threatened By Proposed Road Expansion ["empidonax307" ] 18 Nov Parksville/Qualicum Beach Tuesday bird walk, November 17, 2009 ["canadianrobin2003" ] 17 Nov Parksville/Qualicum Beach Tuesday bird walk, November 17,2009 ["canadianrobin2003" ] 17 Nov Nanaimo River ["Jon" ] 15 Nov Nanaimo,Vancouver Island, bird alert--November 15, 2009, ["backyard_store" ] 15 Nov Sunday bird walk, Nanaimo, Vancouver Island, November 15, 2009 ["backyard_store" ] 15 Nov Common Yellowthroat. ["backyard_store" ] 14 Nov RBA Victoria, BC Sat Nov 14 ["Rick Schortinghuis" ] 14 Nov More Geese in Parksville ["backyard_store" ] 13 Nov RBA Victoria, BC Fri Nov 13 ["Rick Schortinghuis" ] 13 Nov backyard birds ["canadianrobin2003" ] 13 Nov Missing Birder Found Alive and Well ["Ann Nightingale" ] 13 Nov Snow, Cackling Geese ["canadianrobin2003" ] 13 Nov Victoria, BC Fri Nov 13 ["Rick Schortinghuis" ] 13 Nov Local Birder Missing- HELP! ["Ann Nightingale" ] 12 Nov Re: Birding VI on Twitter? ["canadianrobin2003" ] 11 Nov Re: Birding VI on Twitter? ["Joy & Cam" ] 12 Nov Birding VI on Twitter? ["Dave" ] 11 Nov Parksville/Qualicum Beach Tuesday bird walk, November 10, 2009 ["canadianrobin2003" ] 10 Nov Pair of Mourning Doves - Courtenay ["Dave" ] 10 Nov Hummingbird video ["canadianrobin2003" ] 09 Nov Buttertubs Marsh ["backyard_store" ] 08 Nov Nanaimo,Vancouver Island, bird alert--November 08, 2009, ["backyard_store" ] 08 Nov Sunday bird walk, Nanaimo, Vancouver Island, November 08, 2009 ["backyard_store" ] 7 Nov Re: [BCVIBIRDS] Re: White-fronted and Cackling geese [Ryan Cathers ] 08 Nov Black Headed Gull ["etcon2" ] 7 Nov Re: White-fronted and Cackling geese [Scott Gilmore ] 07 Nov White-fronted and Cackling geese ["joncbirder" ] 6 Nov RBA Victoria, BC Fri Nov 6 ["Rick Schortinghuis" ] 04 Nov Parksville Qualicum Beach CBC date ["saninerr" ] 04 Nov Spotted Sandpiper ["cancoot" ] 04 Nov Clark's Nutcracker at Carmanah Point ["gke_55" ] 04 Nov Colony Farm Banding Results ["derekjmatthews" ] 04 Nov Parksville/Qualicum Beach Tuesday bird walk, November 03, 2009 ["canadianrobin2003" ] 03 Nov Nanaimo River estuary ["joncbirder" ] 2 Nov RBA Victoria, BC Mon Nov 2 ["Rick Schortinghuis" ] 2 Nov RBA Victoria, BC Mon Nov 2 ["Rick Schortinghuis" ] 02 Nov Northern Pygmy-Owl ["backyard_store" ] 01 Nov Nanaimo,Vancouver Island, bird alert--November 01, 2009, ["backyard_store" ] 01 Nov Sunday bird walk, Nanaimo, Vancouver Island, November 01, 2009 ["backyard_store" ] 30 Oct More Eurasian wigeon ["joncbirder" ] 30 Oct Eurasian Wigeon, Cackling Goose and American Coots ["canadianrobin2003" ] 29 Oct Re: Holden Creek/Nanaimo River ["Peter" ] 29 Oct RBA Victoria, BC Thurs Oct 29 2009 ["Rick Schortinghuis" ] 28 Oct Holden Creek/Nanaimo River ["joncbirder" ] 28 Oct parksville/Qualicum Beach Tuesday bird walk, October 27, 2009 ["canadianrobin2003" ] 27 Oct Cackling Goose ["broadwingedh" ] 26 Oct Kaye Road Birds ["empidonax307" ] 25 Oct Nanaimo,Vancouver Island, bird alert--October 25, 2009, ["backyard_store" ] 25 Oct Sunday bird walk, Nanaimo, Vancouver Island, October 25, 2009 ["backyard_store" ] 25 Oct Holden Creek ["joncbirder" ] 23 Oct Backyard Birds ["canadianrobin2003" ] 23 Oct Backyard birds ["canadianrobin2003" ] 23 Oct Backyard Birds ["canadianrobin2003" ] 23 Oct RBA Victoria, BC Fri Oct 23 2009 ["Rick Schortinghuis" ] 22 Oct Long-billed Dowitchers at Courtenay Airpark Lagoon. ["Dave" ] 22 Oct Tropical Kingbird ["gke_55" ] 21 Oct Parksville/Qualicum Beach Tuesday bird walk, October 21, 2009 ["canadianrobin2003" ] 21 Oct RBA Victoria, BC Wed Oct 21 2009 ["Rick Schortinghuis" ] 19 Oct Holden Creek ["canadianrobin2003" ] 19 Oct RBA Victoria, BC Mon Oct 19 2009 ["Rick Schortinghuis" ] 18 Oct Nanaimo,Vancouver Island, bird alert--October 18, 2009, ["backyard_store" ] 18 Oct Sunday bird walk, Nanaimo, Vancouver Island, October 18, 2009 ["backyard_store" ] 16 Oct Re: mystery bird ["michelle.calgary AT ymail.com" ] 16 Oct the location for the bird walk ["michelle.calgary AT ymail.com" ] 15 Oct Re: mystery bird ["canadianrobin2003" ] 15 Oct Re: MARBLED GODWIT ["michelle.calgary AT ymail.com" ] 14 Oct Re: MARBLED GODWIT ["canadianrobin2003" ] 14 Oct Parksville/Qualicum Beach Tuesday bird walk, October 13, 2009 ["canadianrobin2003" ] 14 Oct MARBLED GODWIT ["michelle.calgary AT ymail.com" ] 14 Oct Parksville/Qualicum Beach Tuesday bird walk, October 13, 2009 ["canadianrobin2003" ] Subject: merlin and juncos From: "krukab2002" <krukab2002 AT yahoo.com> Date: Fri, 20 Nov 2009 19:25:39 -0000 i saw a posting sharp shinned hawk and juncos we have about 30 pluss juncos and 8 stellers jays and one merlin after them for 3 days Subject: Hawk From: "canadianrobin2003" <nmrobins AT telus.net> Date: Fri, 20 Nov 2009 19:15:27 -0000 Hi birders, The Dark-eyed Juncos disappeared and there was a Sharp-shinned Hawk on a fence post in our backyard in the 100 block of Medidian Way in Parksville. The Hawk is now gone and the Juncos are back. Good birding Neil Robins Parksville British Columbia Subject: RBA Victoria, BC Fri Nov 20 From: "Rick Schortinghuis" <shylo AT islandnet.com> Date: Fri, 20 Nov 2009 08:59:55 -0800 RBA * British Columbia * Greater Victoria and Southern Vancouver Is. * Nov 20, 2009 * BCVI090312 - Transcript This is the Victoria Natural History Society's Bird Alert for Fri Nov 20 8:00am update. Compiled and Transcribed by Rick Schortinghuis. Announcement The VNHS Sat Birding Group will be going to Blenkinsop Lake this coming Sat Nov 21. Meet at the south end by Don Mann Trucking at 8:30am. Feature Birds FRANKLINS GULL Thurs. Nov 19 A FRANKLINS GULL was seen off the Ogden Point Breakwater. Tues Nov 17 A swallow species was seen over Blenkinsop Lake. Also near by a SNOW GOOSE and an immature NORTHERN SHRIKE. Mon Nov 16 A SNOW GOOSE was seen south of Martindale Rd. Sat Nov 14 A RBA for a BLACK-TAILED GULL seen at Clover Point around noon. It flew eastward. If confirmed this would be the first record for the Victoria Checklist. A FRANKLINS GULL was seen at Ogden Point on the inside. A ROCK SANDPIPER was seen at Cattle Point. A MARBLED GODWIT was seen at Wittys Lagoon in the estuary. A SNOW BUNTING was seen at Clover Point near the (NON SEWAGE TREATMENT OUT FALL!!!!) Fri Nov 13 RBA a RED PHALAROPE was seen over Swan Lake. A SNOW BUNTING was seen at Clover Point( near the sewage non treatment outfall) At Martindale there were 4 immature and 1 adult TUNDRA SWAN, 30 CACKLING CANADA GEESE, 8 GREATER-WHITE-FRONTED GEESE Thurs Nov 12 A SHORT-EARED OWL was seen at Swan Lake. 4 TOWNSENDS SOLITAIRES were seen on Mt Wells. 1 AMERICAN KESTREL,1 PEREGRINE FALCON, 1 NORTHERN HARRIER and 1 immature SNOW GOSSE were seen in the Martindale area. A RING-BILLED GULL was seen at Island-view Beach. 5 WESTERN MEADOWLARKS were seen on Saanichton Spit A SNOW GOOSE was seen on Blenkinsop Lake Wed Nov 11 An immature SNOW GOOSE was seen at Blenkinsop Lake A SHORT-EARED OWL was seen south of Martindale Rd. Sun Nov 8 A SHORT-EARED OWL was seen on Saanichton Spit. 2 NORTHERN FULMARS were seen on the VNHS Trip on the MV COHO. Thurs Nov 5 There were 9 MOURNING DOVES seen near the corner of Keating Cross Rd and Central Saanich Rd. A female RUFOUS HUMMINGBIRD was seen in Oak Bay. Wed Nov 4 A MARBLED GODWIT was seen at Cattle Point another one was reported from Holland point. Tues Nov 3 A SHORT-EARED owl was seen from Island View Rd as you go up the hill. 8 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE were seen along Martindale Rd. 8 CACKLING CANADA GEESE and 3 SNOW GEESE were seen at Pat Bay. 5 WESTERN MEADOW LARKS were seen at the northwest end of the airport. Mon Nov 2 A SHORT-EARED OWL was seen south of Martindale Rd. 2 ROCK SANDPIPERS were seen by a kayaker on rocks near Mary Todd Island. 2 NORTHERN SHRIKES, 3 WESTERN MEADOWLARKS and 1 PEREGRINE FALCON were seen on Saanichton Spit(Cordova Spit). 4 ANCIENT MURRELETS were seen off of MacAulay Point. A MARBLED GODWIT was seen off Cattle Point A WILLET was seen off the end of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Sun Nov 1 A SHORT-EARED OWL was seen hunting off McHugh Rd in Central Saanich. A BARN OWL was heard hunting in Central Saanich in the early morning hours. There were three RUDDY DUCKS on Swan Lake. Sat Oct 31 There were 8 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE seen along Martindale Rd. Wed Oct 28 A MARBLED GODWIT was seen for the second day from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay, along with seven other species for shorebirds including the WILLET. Tues Oct 27 A NORTHERN SHRIKE and a WHITE-THROATED SPARROW were seen at Swan Lake. WHITE-THROATED SPARROWS have been reported from several different locations around the lake this past week. Thurs Oct 22 A WILLET was seen on Mary Todd Island from the foot of Bowker Ave Tues Oct 20 RBA for a EMPORER GOOSE seen on the Victoria Golf Course. 5 BROWN PELICANS were seen on Race Rocks 5 BROWN PELICANS, SOTTY SHEARWATERS and a LEACHS STORM PETREL were from the MV COHO in Canadian waters A male RUSTY BLACKBIRD was seen at Galey Farm along the connector trail. An immature SNOW GOOSE was seen on the Victoria Golfcourse An immature SNOW GOOSE was seen off Lochside Dr just south of Lolbrunner. 7 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE were seen on the Lockside School grounds. 2 CACKING CANADA GEESE were seen in Martindale Sun Oct 18 2 SWAINSONS HAWKS were seen over Mt Douglas also there 2 AMERICAN KESTRELS. 4 TRUMPETER SWANS, the first of the fall season were seen over the Blenkinsop Valley. 20 EURASIAN COLLARED DOVES were seen off Wiffin Spit Rd. A PECTORAL SANDPIPER and a RUDDY TURNSTONE were seen at Wiffin Spit Sat Oct 17 7 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS were seen on the VNHS boat trip to Race Rocks, the other highlight was a pod of Dall Porpoises. Mon Oct 12 A juvenile PACIFIC GOLDEN- PLOVER was seen with BLACK-BELLIED PLOVERS on the east side of Saanichton Spit. A WILLET and a RED KNOT were seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. A juvenile GOLDEN EAGLE was seen over Swan Lake. Also there a SWAMP SPARROW, AMERICAN BITTERN, RUDDY DUCK and a REDHEAD. A LAPLAND LONGSPUR was seen south of the boat launch at Island View Beach. Sun Oct 11 A CANVASBACK, RUDDY DUCK, AMERICAN BITTERN and a REDHEAD were seen at Swan Lake. Sat Oct 10 At Kings Pond there was 1 AMERICAN TREE SPARROW seen on the east side, also 1 SWAMP SPARROW. At Swan Lake today there was: 1 RUSTY BLACKBIRD, 1 AMERICAN BITTERN, 1 RUDDY DUCK, 1 REDHEAD. There were 6 HORNED LARKS seen on Mt Douglas. Fri Oct 9 There were 7 HORNED LARKS on Mt Douglas Thurs Oct 8 There was 1 LAPLAND LONGSPUR seen on Christmas Hill. Wed Oct 7 There were 4 HORNED LARKS and 1 LAPLAND LONGSPUR seen on Christmas Hill. A WESTERN MEADOWLARK was seen at Island View Beach Mon Oct 5 There was RUSTY BLACKBIRD with BREWERS BLACKBIRDS at Swan Lake. There were three TOWNSENDS SOLITAIRS seen from the Mt Douglas lookout , also there 2 probable MOUNTAIN BLUEBIRDS, 2 SABINES GULLS and 16 ANCIENT MURRELETS were seen from Tower Point among 20,000 gulls. Sun Oct 4 A ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK was seen over Martindale Rd. There was a HORNED LARK and a TOWNSENDS SOLITAIR seen from the lookout on Mt Douglas. Sat Oct 3 2 MARBLED GODWITS were seen on the beach 500 metres north of Parker Park which is on Parker Ave. 3 SANDHILL CRANES were seen over the Blenkinsop Valley. 12 SOOTY SHEARWATERS and 1 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS were on a mini pelagic boat trip to Race Rocks, also seen a Humpback whale, A WILLET and a RED KNOT were seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. 178 SNOW GEESE were seen over Rocky Point Bird Observatory. Fri Oct 2 A TOWNSENDS SOLITAIR was seen at Saxe Point Park. A HORNED LARK was seen at Cattle Point. 3 SANDHILL CRANES were seen over Martindale Rd. 5 LAPLAND LONGSPURS were seen on CHRISTMAS HILL. Wed Sept 30 A juvenile ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK was seen at UVIC. Sun Sept 27 RBA for a COMMON GRACKLE seen from 3382 Sanderling Way in the Turnstone Development off Happy Valley Rd. Highlights from CRD Hawk Watch in East Sooke Park: 520 TURKEY VULTURES, 4 OSPREY, 2 NORTHERN HARRIERS, 16 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 1 COOPERS HAWK, 1 BROAD-WINGED HAWK, 45 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 1 GOLDEN EAGLE, 1 AMERICAN KESTREL, 1 PEREGRINE FALCON, 5 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE, 26 VAUXS SWIFTS. A HORNED LARK was seen on the floating Boardwalk at Swan Lake. 5 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE were seen with Canada GEESE in a field off Martindale Rd near Welch Rd 2 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS , 6 WESTERN SANDPIPERS, 1 LONG-BILLED DOWICHER and 1 GREATER YELLOW-LEGS were seen at MacIntyre Reservoir. 2 GREATER-WHITE-FRONTED GEESE, 1 LONG-BILLED DOWICHER and 1 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS were seen at Swan Lake. Sat Sept 26 Highlights from the Hawk Watch in East Sooke Park: 400 TURKEY VULTURES, 1 BROAD-WINGED HAWK, 25 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 2 PEREGRINE FALCONS, 1 MERLIN, 15 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 5 COOPERS HAWKS, 1 NORTHERN GOSHAWK, 2 BALD EAGLES, 1 OSPREY, 4 SANDHILL CRANES, 200 BAND-TAILED PIGEONS, 15 VAUXS SWIFTS, several BLACK SWIFTS, 3 EVENING GROSBEAKS. A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. An adult FRANKLINS GULL was seen on the sand bar by the bridge at Esquimalt Lagoon. A WHITE-THROATED SPARROW was seen at the south end of the bridge at Blenkinsop Lake. 4 SANDHILL CRANES were seen off of Sahilton Rd in Duncan. Thurs Sept 23 2 BROAD-WINGED HAWKS and a WHITE-THROATED SPARROW were seen at Rocky Point Observatory. Also there 600 TURKEY VULTURES, 1 NORTHERN HARRIER, 6 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 1 COOPERS HAWK, 6 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 1 AMERICAN KESTREL, 1 PEREGRINE FALCON, 70 VAUXS SWIFTS, 180 BAND-TAILED PIGEONS. A reminder RPBO is on DND land access is restricted to volunteers of RPBO. Mon Sept 21 A BLACK-LEGGED KITTYWAKE was seen from Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon). Also there a RING-BILLED GULL. Sun Sept 20 A PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATER was seen off Tower Point. An AMERICAN BITTERN was seen at Swan Lake. Sat Sept 19 A SWAINSONS HAWK and a NORTHERN GOSHAWK were seen at Rocky Point Bird Observatory. A reminder that RPBO is on DND land and access is restricted. Fri Sept 18 A WILLET and a RED KNOT were seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Thurs Sept 17 RBA for a RED-SHOULDERED HAWK seen at Rocky Point Bird Observatory. This would be the first record for BC. Also there a BROAD-WINGED HAWK. A reminder, RPBO is on DND property, access is restricted. RBA for a BLACK-FOOTED ALBATROSS seen from Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon). This would be the fourth record for the VNHS Check List. A RED KNOT and a WILLET were seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Wed Sept 16 A RED KNOT and WILLET were seen on Mary Todd Island which is the island closest to the Oak Bay Marina. A WESTERN PALM WARBLER was seen along the Galloping Goose Trail between Brittany Dr. and Jacklin Rd. Several SANDHILL CRANES were heard over RPBO. A reminder RPBO is on DND land and access is restricted. Tues Sept 16 A RED KNOT and a WILLET were seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. An AMERICAN BITTERN , MERLIN and a NORTHERN HARRIER were seen at Swan Lake. Mon Sept 14 A SAINSONS HAWK was seen from the Beechey Head Lookout at East Sooke Park. Also there 2 PEREGRINE FALCONS, 2 MERLINS, 6 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 3 COOPERS HAWKS, 2 NORTHERN HARRIERS, 12 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 2 BALD EAGLES and 60 TURKEY VULTURES. Sun Sept 13 A RED-EYED VIREO was heard from the zig zag portion of the floating boardwalk at Swan Lake. A WESTERN KINGBIRD was seen at RPBO. A reminder that RPBO is on DND land and access is restricted. A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Thurs Sept 10 A NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH was seen by the switch back portion of the floating boardwalk at Swan Lake. A WILLET was seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Wed Sept 9 A Willet was seen again at the foot of Bowker Ave. in Oak Bay. Tues Sept 8 A NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH was seen from the switch back portion of floating boardwalk at Swan Lake. On Monday one was seen near Tues pond. A Willet was seen from the foot of Bowker in Oak Bay. A DUSKY FLYCATCHER was seen in Pemberton Park which is off of Gonzales Ave and Richardson St. Sat Sept 5 A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. A SOLITARY SANDPIPER and a PECTORAL SANDPIPER were seen at MacIntrye Reservoir. A PECTORAL SANDPIPER and a 3 SEMI-PALMATED PLOVERS were seen at Wittys Lagoon. Hundreds of SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 10 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS, 1 SHORT-TAILED SHEARWATER and 6 FORK-TAILED STORM-PETREL were seen from the MV COHO Thurs Sept 3 A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. A BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER was seen at Wiffin Spit. A SOLITARY SANDPIPER was seen at MacIntyre Reservoir. A BAIRDS SANDPIPER was seen at Saanichton Spit. A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen on the beach east of Ogden Point. Wed Sept 2 A BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER was seen at Wiffin Spit. 2 BAIRDS SANDPIPERS were see on Saanichton Spit on the east side. Tues Sept 1 A GREEN HERON was seen at Swan Lake Sun Aug 30 400 SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 4 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS, 1 SHORT-TAILED SHEARWATER, 1 NORTHERN FULMAR, 1 FORK-TAILED STORM-PETREL, 2 CASSINS AUCKLETS, 1 TUFTED PUFFIN were seen from the MV COHO ferry in Canadian Waters. 1 RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen with BLACK TURNSTONES on the beach east of Ogden Point near where the stairs go down to the water. Sat Aug 29 RBA for a BROWN BOOBY seen perched on the mast of a fishing boat, for about 4 hrs Sat afternoon from Otter Point to the Sooke Harbour, it then flew towards East Sooke Park. Pictures to posted soon. RBA for a BROWN BOOBY seen off Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon) 7:30 in the evening. A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen on the beach east of Ogden Point below Dallas Rd at Boyd St. 22 RED-NECKED PHALAROPES were seen off the Ogden Point Breakwater. A GREEN HERON was seen on the railing of the floating Boardwalk at Swan Lake. Fri Aug 28 A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen on the beach east of Ogden Point. A CASSINS AUCKLET was seen Clover Point, also there a PARASITIC JAEGER An AMERICAN GLODEN- PLOVER was seen at Albert Head Lagoon. 200 SOOTY SHEARWATERS were seen off Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon) Thurs Aug 27 A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen with BLACK TURNSTONES on the beach just east of the Ogden Point Breakwater. An AMERICAN GODEN-PLOVER was seen at Albert Head Lagoon. 50 SOOTY SHEARWATERS and 1 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATER were seen from Tower Point(Wittys Lagoon) A SNOW GOOSE was seen at Maber Flats Wed Aug 26 RBA for a MANX SHEARWATER and a SOUTH POLAR SKUA seen from Tower Point(Wittys Lagoon), also there 150 SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 2 NORTHERN FULMARS, 2 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS, 2 PARSITC JAEGERS. 90 SOOTY SHEARWATERS , 2 PARASITC JAEGERS and 1 POMARINE JAEGER were seen from Beechy Head in East Sooke Park. Mon Aug 24 A SORA was heard in the southeast part of Rithets Bog Sun Aug 23 RBA for 1 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATER, also 2 POMARINE JAEGERS, 1 PARASTIC JAEGER, 3 SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 6 NORTHERN FULMARS and 3 SEMIPALMATED PLOVERS were seen from Tower Point(Wittys Lagoon). Also a GOLDEN EAGLE was seen on the trip there. Fri Aug 21 Highlights of birds seen from the MV COHO on a VNHS Trip to Dungeness Spit: A PARASITIC JAEGER and several SOOTY SHEARWATERS were seen on the way out, a POMARINE JAEGER was seen on the way back, all in Canadian waters. Tues Aug 18 There were a small number of RED-NECKED PHALAROPES seen off of Clover Point. 24 COMMON NIGHTHAWKS were seen over the Juan de Fuca Rec Centre Monday Aug 17 2 BANK SWALLOWS were seen at Swan Lake 1 BLACK SWIFT was seen over Hector Rd. Sun Aug 16 Highlights of birds seen from the MV COHO on a VNHS Trip to Cape Flattery. 2 PARASITIC JAEGERS, NORTHERN FULMAR and several RED- NECKED PHALAROPES Sat Aug 15 RBA for a CLAY-COLOURED SPARROW seen where the jogging trail meets the main trail on the southwest side of Swan Lake 1 SOLITARY SANDPIPER AND 1 PECTORAL SANDPIPER were seen at Rithets Bog 6 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS were seen in a ditch along Lockside Trail south of Martindale Rd near the pig farm. Friday Aug 14 6 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS were see along Lockside Trail between Martindale Rd and Dooley Rd. 1 BLACK SWIFT was seen over Portage Inlet Thurs Aug 13 3 BLACK SWIFTS were seen over Sunnygrove Ter. Wed Aug 12 2 BAIRDS SANDPIPERS were seen at Wittys Lagoon also there 2 BLUE-WINGED TEAL. Tues.. Aug. 11 1 TUFTED PUFFIN, 2 BROWN PELICANS, 1 LONG-TAILED JAEGER, 1 CASSINS AUKLET, 5 RED-NECKED PHALAROPES, and 3 ANCIENT MURRELETS were seen off Tower Point. 3 WANDERING TATTLERS were seen between Holland Point and Ogden Point Thursday Aug 6 RBA for a HERMIT WARBLER seen at 4655 Kerryiew Dr, in the Prospect Lake area, birders are welcome, Sun Aug 1 A SOLITARY SANDPIPER was seen at McIntyre Reservoir , also there 9 LONG-BILLED DOWICHERS and 1 LESSER YELLOWLEGS among the 8 species of shorebirds seen. An AMERICAN BITTERN was across the lake from the lollipop boardwalk Sat Aug 1 An AMERICAN BITTERN was seen across the lake from the lollipop boardwalk A WANDERING TATTLER was seen from the Ogden point Breakwater Highlights of a VNHS walk to Esquimalt, Albert head, and Wittys Lagoon were 2 SEMIPALMATED PLOVERS, 4 LESSER YELLOWLEGS, 1 LONG-BILLED DOWICHER and 1 SHORT-BILLED DOWICHER at Wittys Lagoon. 10 species of shorebirds were seen. Thurs. July 30 2 WANDERING TATTLERS were seen off the Ogden Point Breakwater. Wed July 29 A BANK SWALLOW was seen over Swan Lake Tues July 28 RBA A GREEN-TAILED TOWHEE was seen at Tower Point(Whitty's Lagoon). If confirmed this would be the first record for the Victoria checklist. From the clearing go up the hill to the two picnic tables and the two garbage cans. Near by are two port-a-potties. The bird was frequenting this location near the picnic tables at the edge of the forest. Rick Schortinghuis Victoria BC Subject: Parksville Bird Habitat/Road Issue Update From: "empidonax307" <mnc.stephens AT shaw.ca> Date: Fri, 20 Nov 2009 03:41:37 -0000 Hi all, I met with the Mayor of Parksville this afternoon, who assured me that he is not in approval of Boulevard Transportation Group's ideas to extend Despard and Hirst west to Church Road, or the extension of Despard east across the Englishman River. He was also concerned about the proposed road's proximity to the city water wells. Christopher Stephens, Parksville BC Subject: Parksville Bird Habitat Threatened by Proposed Road Expansion From: "empidonax307" <mnc.stephens AT shaw.ca> Date: Thu, 19 Nov 2009 06:22:42 -0000 Public Input Cutoff Date Friday Nov. 20 Hi all, Parksville is considering restructuring the roads in Parksville as part of the new Transportation Master Plan. One of the main proposals is to extend Despard Avenue and/or Hirst Avenue west to Church Road. In the way is an undeveloped ALR property covered largely with a regenerating alder forest and containing a wetland. This area should be protected for its high value as bird and amphibian habitat. The property, together with the bordering rainforest block containing the city water wells, and adjacent Ermineskin Nature Park, forms an interconnected ecosystem that is a very important habitat for a wide diversity of birds. I have been birding in the Parksville area for over 10 years, and have found this to be one of the best land birding areas, with unique birdlife. Some of you may remember that I found an Indigo Bunting in this area last summer. If Despard Ave were extended west to Church Road, it would cut through the alder thickets and wetlands on the property that are excellent bird habitat. Willow Flycatcher, Black Headed Grosbeak, Yellow Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Red Winged Blackbird, Virginia Rails, California Quail and Ring Necked Pheasant nest on this property. In addition, it would pass beside the city water wells and surrounding older growth swamp forest, possibly disturbing the Pileated Woodpeckers, Band Tailed Pigeons, Brown Creepers, Great Horned Owls, Tanagers, Warblers, Flycatchers, Thrushes and Vireos in the area. If Hirst were to be extended to Church Road, it would cut right through a major section of the seasonal marsh on the property, which is used by many species of birds, including Wintering and Migrant Wilson's Snipe, Virginia Rail and Wintering Mallard. In conclusion, one can see that the extension of Despard would impact the important riparian and upland thickets bordering the wetland and City well forest, while the extension of Hirst would bisect the wetland itself. It was also suggested that Despard could be extended east to the industrial park. That would cut through farm fields, and would lead to more land and habitat fragmentation. Other road extensions to the East could also involve a second crossing of the Englishman River. We have already had far too much habitat fragmentation, degradation and destruction in Parksville. The City has hired consultant Boulevard Transportation Group to update the transportation plan. Boulevard is going to present a draft plan to city council after collecting public input. The cutoff date for this is Nov. 20. Between now and Nov. 20 is the last chance to have our views heard on these matters. The City of Parksville has an online feedback form you can fill out and send, or you can deliver it to city hall. Here is the page with the form link at the bottom. http://www.city.parksville.bc.ca/cms.asp?wpID=286 Judging from the pro/con analysis of the proposed roads on the city of Parksville's website, it doesn't seem that birds, other wildlife and habitat are being given adequate consideration in this matter. We do not want what happened in Qualicum, where a wetland and forests were degraded by the Ring Road, to happen in Parksville. If any of you have ideas on ways to raise more awareness of this quickly, or whether a delegation would be possible, or any other ideas, that would be great. You can contact me by phone at: 250-954-3724, or email, mnc.stephens AT shaw.ca Thanks, Christopher Stephens, Parksville, BC Subject: Parksville Bird Habitat Threatened By Proposed Road Expansion From: "empidonax307" <mnc.stephens AT shaw.ca> Date: Thu, 19 Nov 2009 06:02:50 -0000 Public Input Cutoff Date Friday Nov. 20 Hi all, Parksville is considering restructuring the roads in Parksville as part of the new Transportation Master Plan. One of the main proposals is to extend Despard Avenue and/or Hirst Avenue west to Church Road. In the way is an undeveloped ALR property covered largely with a regenerating alder forest and containing a wetland. This area should be protected for its high value as bird and amphibian habitat. The property, together with the bordering rainforest block containing the city water wells, and adjacent Ermineskin Nature Park, forms an interconnected ecosystem that is a very important habitat for a wide diversity of birds. I have been birding in the Parksville area for over 10 years, and have found this to be one of the best land birding areas, with unique birdlife. Some of you may remember that I found an Indigo Bunting in this area last summer. If Despard Ave were extended west to Church Road, it would cut through the alder thickets and wetlands on the property that are excellent bird habitat. Willow Flycatcher, Black Headed Grosbeak, Yellow Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Red Winged Blackbird, Virginia Rails, California Quail and Ring Necked Pheasant nest on this property. In addition, it would pass beside the city water wells and surrounding older growth swamp forest, possibly disturbing the Pileated Woodpeckers, Band Tailed Pigeons, Brown Creepers, Great Horned Owls, Tanagers, Warblers, Flycatchers, Thrushes and Vireos in the area. If Hirst were to be extended to Church Road, it would cut right through a major section of the seasonal marsh on the property, which is used by many species of birds, including Wintering and Migrant Wilson's Snipe, Virginia Rail and Wintering Mallard. In conclusion, one can see that the extension of Despard would impact the important riparian and upland thickets bordering the wetland and City well forest, while the extension of Hirst would bisect the wetland itself. It was also suggested that Despard could be extended east to the industrial park. That would cut through farm fields, and would lead to more land and habitat fragmentation. Other road extensions to the East could also involve a second crossing of the Englishman River. We have already had far too much habitat fragmentation, degradation and destruction in Parksville. The City has hired consultant Boulevard Transportation Group to update the transportation plan. Boulevard is going to present a draft plan to city council after collecting public input. The cutoff date for this is Nov. 20. Between now and Nov. 20 is the last chance to have our views heard on these matters. The City of Parksville has an online feedback form you can fill out and send, or you can deliver it to city hall. Here is the page with the form link at the bottom. http://www.city.parksville.bc.ca/cms.asp?wpID=286 Judging from the pro/con analysis of the proposed roads on the city of Parksville's website, it doesn't seem that birds, other wildlife and habitat are being given adequate consideration in this matter. We do not want what happened in Qualicum, where a wetland and forests were degraded by the Ring Road, to happen in Parksville. If any of you have ideas on ways to raise more awareness of this quickly, or whether a delegation would be possible, or any other ideas, that would be great. You can contact me by phone at: 250-954-3724, or email, mnc.stephens AT ... Thanks, Christopher Stephens, Parksville, BC Subject: Parksville/Qualicum Beach Tuesday bird walk, November 17, 2009 From: "canadianrobin2003" <nmrobins AT telus.net> Date: Wed, 18 Nov 2009 17:51:16 -0000 Hi birders, The Tuesday bird went to Columbia Beach. There were light rainshowers for most of the morning, but we were fortunate enough to have a reprieve from them for an hour. The surf was up on Strait of Georgia and the seas were choppy. The highlights of the morning included seeing several flocks of Black-bellied Plovers, a Black Oystercatcher, Black Turnstones and Dunlin heading to the gravel bar at Pebble Beach. Five flocks of over four hundred Bonaparte's Gulls flew past us and a flock of about a hundred stopping at the gravel bar. We saw two Ancient Murrelets racing just above the water down the Strait. Bonaparte's Gulls, Mew Gulls, Ring-billed Gull, California Gulls Thayer's Gulls and Glaucous-winged Gulls gave us good views as they roosted on the gravel bar. Seven birders saw and heard the following forty species of birds. American Wigeon Mallard Greater Scaup Harlequin Duck Surf Scoter Black Scoter Long-tailed Duck Bufflehead Common Goldeneye Barrow's Goldeneye Common Merganser Pacific Loon Common Loon Horned Grebe Red-necked Grebe Western Grebe Brandt's Cormorant Double-crested Cormorant Pelagic Cormorant Bald Eagle Black-bellied Plover Black Oystercatcher Black Turnstone Dunlin Bonaparte's Gull Mew Gull Ring-billed Gull California Gull Thayer's Gull Glaucous-winged Gull Ancient Murrelet Rock Pigeon Northern Flicker Northwestern Crow Chestnut-backed Chickadee Bewick's Wren European Starling Spotted Towhee Song Sparrow House Finch Good birding Neil Robins Parksville British Columbia Subject: Parksville/Qualicum Beach Tuesday bird walk, November 17,2009 From: "canadianrobin2003" <nmrobins AT telus.net> Date: Tue, 17 Nov 2009 23:51:06 -0000 Hi birders, The Tuesday bird went to Columbia Beach. The morning statred out with rainshowers and then it cleared up and the morning finished off with a shower, the surf was up on Strait of Georgia, with choppy seas. The highlights included seeing several flocks of Black-bellied Plovers, a Black Oystercatcher, Black Turnstones and Dunlin heading to the gravel bar at Pebble Beach. Five flocks of over four hundred Bonaparte's Gulls flew past us with one flock of one hundred stopping at the gravel bar. We saw two Ancient Murrelets racing down the Strait of Georgia just above the water. Bonaparte's Gulls, Mew Gulls, Ring-billed Gull, California Gulls Thayer's Gulls and Glaucous-winged Gulls were toosting on the gravel bar giving us some good views. Seven birders saw and heard the following forty species of birds. American Wigeon Mallard Greater Scaup Harlequin Duck Surf Scoter Black Scoter Long-tailed Duck Bufflehead Common Goldeneye Barrow's Goldeneye Common Merganser Pacific Loon Common Loon Horned Grebe Red-necked Grebe Western Grebe Brandt's Cormorant Double-crested Cormorant Pelagic Cormorant Bald Eagle Black-bellied Plover Black Oystercatcher Black Turnstone Dunlin Bonaparte's Gull Mew Gull Ring-billed Gull California Gull Thayer's Gull Glaucous-winged Gull Ancient Murrelet Rock Pigeon Northern Flicker Northwestern Crow Chestnut-backed Chickadee Bewick's Wren European Starling Spotted Towhee Song Sparrow House Finch Good birding Neil Robins Parksville British Columbia Subject: Nanaimo River From: "Jon" <jon.carter AT fsmail.net> Date: Tue, 17 Nov 2009 23:36:02 -0000 1 short-eared owl, 1 northern harrier, 2 northern shrikes, 5 western meadowlark, 2 cackling geese and a Lincoln's sparrow topped the bill from a visit to the Nanaimo River estuary this morning. Further details and other sightings at: http://britbirderinbc.blogspot.com Jon Carter Cedar Subject: Nanaimo,Vancouver Island, bird alert--November 15, 2009, From: "backyard_store" <backyard_store AT yahoo.com> Date: Sun, 15 Nov 2009 23:00:28 -0000 NANAIMO BIRD ALERT To report your sightings phone the Store at 250-390-3669 e-mail us at thebackyard AT shaw.ca call the Bird Alert at 250-390-3029 Also check the birdstore blog for the latest bird alerts and updates: www.thebirdstore.blogspot.com Post your sightings on this site: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/bcbirdingvanisland/messages Birds of British Columbia: http://www.geog.ubc.ca/biodiversity/efauna/SpeciesChecklists.html International Birdwatching Guides http://www.guidedbirdwatching.com Birdwatching contacts and information find a local birder to go birdwatching with: http://www.birdingpal.org/ Please remember, when reporting a sighting, to leave your name and phone number, along with the date and location of your sighting. Sunday November 15, 2009: The Sunday Bird Walk went to Buttertubs Marsh in Nanaimo. The rain fell all morning and it was very windy. The highlights included seeing a Barred Owl perched in full view on a branch. A small flock of unidentified Shorebird flew over us. A Wilson's Snipe circled around us for several minutes. Five birders heard and saw the following twenty-seven species of birds: Canada Geese, Mallard, Hooded Merganser, American Wigeon, Gadwall, Wood Duck, American Coot, Pied-billed Grebe, Wilson's Snipe, Great Blue Heron, Barred Owl, Glaucous-winged Gull, Northern Flicker, Rock Pigeon, Varied Thrush, American Robin, Golden-crowned Kinglet, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Chestnut-backed Chickadee, Spotted Towhee, Song Sparrow, Golden-crowned Sparrow, American Goldfinch, Pine Siskin, Dark-eyed Junco, House Finch and House Sparrows. A first fall female Common Yellowthroat was seen in a backyard in Columbia Beach. Saturday November 14: Three Trumpeter Swans were seen flying over a field off highway 19, between Nanoose Bay and Parksville. One Brant Goose was seen at the Parksville Beach Community Park in with a flock of American Wigeon. One Snow Goose was seen in with a flock of Canada Geese at Winchelsea School Grounds along Renz Road in Parksville. Steller's Jays and Anna's Hummingbirds are visiting feeders along Benson View Road opposite Witchcraft Lake in Nanaimo. An American Dipper was seen in a stream that runs into Witchcraft Lake in Nanaimo. A Chukar was seen alongside Church Road by the three-way stop in Parksville. Four Steller's Jays and Anna's Hummingbirds are visiting feeders in the 4600 block of Lost Lake Road in Nanaimo. An Anna's Hummingbird is visiting feeders along Valewood Drive in Deerwood Estates in north Nanaimo. Friday November 13: One Snow Goose and three Cackling Geese were seen in with a large flock of Canada Geese in the Winchelsea School grounds along Renz Road in Parksville. A Sharp-shinned Hawk was seen scouting the feeders in a backyard along Meridian Way in Parksville. Thursday November 12: Three Short-eared Owls, two Northern Harriers, two Eurasian Wigeon and a Northern Shrike were seen at the Nanaimo River Estuary in south Nanaimo. Four Brant Geese were seen offshore heading south from Yellowpoint in Cedar. Tuesday November 10: The Tuesday bird walk went to the Plummer Road side of the Englishman River Estuary in Parksville. The morning was cloudy with showers but the sea was calm. A Varied Thrush greeted us as we started the walk. The highlights included the sighting of a Red-tailed Hawk perched high in a tall tree overlooking the estuary and the flooded mudflats. Three Gadwall, four Northern Shovelers and a flock of Dunlin shared the incoming tide on the mud flats. A male and female Long-tailed Duck, Surf, White-winged and Black Scoters, Harlequin Ducks, Bufflehead, Common Goldeneye, Common Merganser, Red-breasted Merganser, Pacific Loons, Common Loons, Horned Grebes, Double-crested Cormorant and Pelagic Cormorant were playing hide and seek with us by diving and popping up out of the water. Fifteen birders saw and heard the following fifty-one species of birds: Canada Goose, Gadwall, American Wigeon, Mallard, Northern Shoveler, Green-winged Teal, Greater Scaup, Harlequin Duck, Surf Scoter, White-winged Scoter, Black Scoter, Long-tailed Duck, Bufflehead, Common Goldeneye, Hooded Merganser, Common Merganser, Red-breasted Merganser, Pacific Loon , Common Loon, Horned Grebe, Red-necked Grebe, Double-crested Cormorant, Pelagic Cormorant, Great Blue Heron, Bald Eagle, Red-tailed Hawk, Killdeer, Dunlin, Bonaparte's Gull, Mew Gull, California Gull, Glaucous-winged Gull, Ancient Murrelet, Belted Kingfisher, Northern Flicker, Pileated Woodpecker, Northwestern Crow, Common Raven, Chestnut-backed Chickadee, American Robin, Varied Thrush, European Starling, Spotted Towhee, Song Sparrow, Golden-crowned Sparrow, Dark-eyed Junco, Red-winged Blackbird, Brewer's Blackbird, Purple Finch, House Finch and Pine Siskin. Sunday November 08: Three Rufous Hummingbirds were seen visiting feeders along Cosgrove Crescent in Nanaimo. Three Greater White-fronted Geese. three Cackling Geese and two Gadwall were seen at Buttertubs Marsh in Nanaimo. For further information on these sightings or for help in identifying a bird please call The Backyard Wildbird and Nature Store AT 250-390-3669 Toll Free AT 1-888-249-4145 e-mail: thebackyard AT shaw.ca ********************************** Arrowsmith Naturalists Guest speaker, Haida Bolton will talk about "Camp Uganda, an educational camp in the Wildlife Education Centre for underprivileged Uganda Children and their parents." Monday November 23, 2009 AT 7:30 pm. Springwood School Parksville ********************************** The Nanoose Naturalists Thursday December 10, 2009 AT 7:00 pm Nanoose Library, Nanoose Bay ********************************** Everyone is welcome to join us for a 2-3 hour bird walk on the Sunday and Tuesday mornings. We leave from the Store at 9 A.M. Sunday Mornings and go to a different location in and around Nanaimo and from the Parksville Beach Community Park at 9 A.M. on Tuesdays and go to different areas in and around the Oceanside area. ************************************************************** The Tuesday Bird Walk on November 17, 2009 will be going to Columbia Beach. Meet at the Parksville Beach Community Park near the parking area at the Lion's Playground at 9:00 A.M. or at the parking area off Admiral Tyron Bld. at about 9: 15 A.M. ***************************************************** The Sunday Bird Walk on November 22, 2009 will be going to Neck Point Park in Nanaimo. Meet at the Birdstore at 9:00 A.M. or at the parking lot of Hammond Bay Road at about 9:20 A.M. ******************************************************* Good birding Neil Robins THE BACKYARD Wildbird & Nature Store 6314 Metral Drive, Nanaimo, BC V9T 2L8 250.390.3669 250.390.1633 fax thebackyard AT shaw.ca CHECK OUT OUR BLOG---> www.thebirdstore.blogspot.com Subject: Sunday bird walk, Nanaimo, Vancouver Island, November 15, 2009 From: "backyard_store" <backyard_store AT yahoo.com> Date: Sun, 15 Nov 2009 22:57:26 -0000 Hi birders, The Sunday Bird Walk went to Buttertubs Marsh in Nanaimo. The rain fell all morning and it was very windy. The highlights included seeing a Barred Owl perched in full view on a branch. A small flock of unidentified Shorebird flew over us. A Wilson's Snipe circled around us for several minutes. Five birders heard and saw the following twenty-seven species of birds: Canada Geese, Mallard, Hooded Merganser, American Wigeon, Gadwall, Wood Duck, American Coot, Pied-billed Grebe, Wilson's Snipe, Great Blue Heron, Barred Owl, Glaucous-winged Gull, Northern Flicker, Rock Pigeon, Varied Thrush, American Robin, Golden-crowned Kinglet, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Chestnut-backed Chickadee, Spotted Towhee, Song Sparrow, Golden-crowned Sparrow, American Goldfinch, Pine Siskin, Dark-eyed Junco, House Finch and House Sparrows. Good birding Neil Robins Nanaimo British Columbia Subject: Common Yellowthroat. From: "backyard_store" <backyard_store AT yahoo.com> Date: Sun, 15 Nov 2009 21:35:38 -0000 Hi birders, A first fall Female Common Yellowthroat was seen in a backyard in Columbia Beach. Good birding Neil Robins Nanaimo British Columbia Subject: RBA Victoria, BC Sat Nov 14 From: "Rick Schortinghuis" <shylo AT islandnet.com> Date: Sat, 14 Nov 2009 20:08:04 -0800 RBA * British Columbia * Greater Victoria and Southern Vancouver Is. * Nov 14, 2009 * BCVI090312 - Transcript This is the Victoria Natural History Society's Bird Alert for Sat Nov 14 8:00pm update. Compiled and Transcribed by Rick Schortinghuis. Feature Birds RBA BLACK-TAILED GULL FRANKLINS GULL ROCK SANDPIPER MARBLED GODWIT SNOW BUNTING Sat Nov 14 A RBA for a BLACK-TAILED GULL seen at Clover Point around noon. It flew eastward. If confirmed this would be the first record for the Victoria Checklist. A FRANKLINS GULL was seen at Ogden Point on the inside. A ROCK SANDPIPER was seen at Cattle Point. A MARBLED GODWIT was seen at Wittys Lagoon in the estuary. A SNOW BUNTING was seen at Clover Point near the (NON SEWAGE TREATMENT OUT FALL!!!!) Fri Nov 13 RBA a RED PHALAROPE was seen over Swan Lake. A SNOW BUNTING was seen at Clover Point( near the sewage non treatment outfall) At Martindale there were 4 immature and 1 adult TUNDRA SWAN, 30 CACKLING CANADA GEESE, 8 GREATER-WHITE-FRONTED GEESE Thurs Nov 12 A SHORT-EARED OWL was seen at Swan Lake. 4 TOWNSENDS SOLITAIRES were seen on Mt Wells. 1 AMERICAN KESTREL,1 PEREGRINE FALCON, 1 NORTHERN HARRIER and 1 immature SNOW GOSSE were seen in the Martindale area. A RING-BILLED GULL was seen at Island-view Beach. 5 WESTERN MEADOWLARKS were seen on Saanichton Spit A SNOW GOOSE was seen on Blenkinsop Lake Wed Nov 11 An immature SNOW GOOSE was seen at Blenkinsop Lake A SHORT-EARED OWL was seen south of Martindale Rd. Sun Nov 8 A SHORT-EARED OWL was seen on Saanichton Spit. 2 NORTHERN FULMARS were seen on the VNHS Trip on the MV COHO. Thurs Nov 5 There were 9 MOURNING DOVES seen near the corner of Keating Cross Rd and Central Saanich Rd. A female RUFOUS HUMMINGBIRD was seen in Oak Bay. Wed Nov 4 A MARBLED GODWIT was seen at Cattle Point another one was reported from Holland point. Tues Nov 3 A SHORT-EARED owl was seen from Island View Rd as you go up the hill. 8 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE were seen along Martindale Rd. 8 CACKLING CANADA GEESE and 3 SNOW GEESE were seen at Pat Bay. 5 WESTERN MEADOW LARKS were seen at the northwest end of the airport. Mon Nov 2 A SHORT-EARED OWL was seen south of Martindale Rd. 2 ROCK SANDPIPERS were seen by a kayaker on rocks near Mary Todd Island. 2 NORTHERN SHRIKES, 3 WESTERN MEADOWLARKS and 1 PEREGRINE FALCON were seen on Saanichton Spit(Cordova Spit). 4 ANCIENT MURRELETS were seen off of MacAulay Point. A MARBLED GODWIT was seen off Cattle Point A WILLET was seen off the end of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Sun Nov 1 A SHORT-EARED OWL was seen hunting off McHugh Rd in Central Saanich. A BARN OWL was heard hunting in Central Saanich in the early morning hours. There were three RUDDY DUCKS on Swan Lake. Sat Oct 31 There were 8 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE seen along Martindale Rd. Wed Oct 28 A MARBLED GODWIT was seen for the second day from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay, along with seven other species for shorebirds including the WILLET. Tues Oct 27 A NORTHERN SHRIKE and a WHITE-THROATED SPARROW were seen at Swan Lake. WHITE-THROATED SPARROWS have been reported from several different locations around the lake this past week. Thurs Oct 22 A WILLET was seen on Mary Todd Island from the foot of Bowker Ave Tues Oct 20 RBA for a EMPORER GOOSE seen on the Victoria Golf Course. 5 BROWN PELICANS were seen on Race Rocks 5 BROWN PELICANS, SOTTY SHEARWATERS and a LEACHS STORM PETREL were from the MV COHO in Canadian waters A male RUSTY BLACKBIRD was seen at Galey Farm along the connector trail. An immature SNOW GOOSE was seen on the Victoria Golfcourse An immature SNOW GOOSE was seen off Lochside Dr just south of Lolbrunner. 7 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE were seen on the Lockside School grounds. 2 CACKING CANADA GEESE were seen in Martindale Sun Oct 18 2 SWAINSONS HAWKS were seen over Mt Douglas also there 2 AMERICAN KESTRELS. 4 TRUMPETER SWANS, the first of the fall season were seen over the Blenkinsop Valley. 20 EURASIAN COLLARED DOVES were seen off Wiffin Spit Rd. A PECTORAL SANDPIPER and a RUDDY TURNSTONE were seen at Wiffin Spit Sat Oct 17 7 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS were seen on the VNHS boat trip to Race Rocks, the other highlight was a pod of Dall Porpoises. Mon Oct 12 A juvenile PACIFIC GOLDEN- PLOVER was seen with BLACK-BELLIED PLOVERS on the east side of Saanichton Spit. A WILLET and a RED KNOT were seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. A juvenile GOLDEN EAGLE was seen over Swan Lake. Also there a SWAMP SPARROW, AMERICAN BITTERN, RUDDY DUCK and a REDHEAD. A LAPLAND LONGSPUR was seen south of the boat launch at Island View Beach. Sun Oct 11 A CANVASBACK, RUDDY DUCK, AMERICAN BITTERN and a REDHEAD were seen at Swan Lake. Sat Oct 10 At Kings Pond there was 1 AMERICAN TREE SPARROW seen on the east side, also 1 SWAMP SPARROW. At Swan Lake today there was: 1 RUSTY BLACKBIRD, 1 AMERICAN BITTERN, 1 RUDDY DUCK, 1 REDHEAD. There were 6 HORNED LARKS seen on Mt Douglas. Fri Oct 9 There were 7 HORNED LARKS on Mt Douglas Thurs Oct 8 There was 1 LAPLAND LONGSPUR seen on Christmas Hill. Wed Oct 7 There were 4 HORNED LARKS and 1 LAPLAND LONGSPUR seen on Christmas Hill. A WESTERN MEADOWLARK was seen at Island View Beach Mon Oct 5 There was RUSTY BLACKBIRD with BREWERS BLACKBIRDS at Swan Lake. There were three TOWNSENDS SOLITAIRS seen from the Mt Douglas lookout , also there 2 probable MOUNTAIN BLUEBIRDS, 2 SABINES GULLS and 16 ANCIENT MURRELETS were seen from Tower Point among 20,000 gulls. Sun Oct 4 A ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK was seen over Martindale Rd. There was a HORNED LARK and a TOWNSENDS SOLITAIR seen from the lookout on Mt Douglas. Sat Oct 3 2 MARBLED GODWITS were seen on the beach 500 metres north of Parker Park which is on Parker Ave. 3 SANDHILL CRANES were seen over the Blenkinsop Valley. 12 SOOTY SHEARWATERS and 1 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS were on a mini pelagic boat trip to Race Rocks, also seen a Humpback whale, A WILLET and a RED KNOT were seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. 178 SNOW GEESE were seen over Rocky Point Bird Observatory. Fri Oct 2 A TOWNSENDS SOLITAIR was seen at Saxe Point Park. A HORNED LARK was seen at Cattle Point. 3 SANDHILL CRANES were seen over Martindale Rd. 5 LAPLAND LONGSPURS were seen on CHRISTMAS HILL. Wed Sept 30 A juvenile ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK was seen at UVIC. Sun Sept 27 RBA for a COMMON GRACKLE seen from 3382 Sanderling Way in the Turnstone Development off Happy Valley Rd. Highlights from CRD Hawk Watch in East Sooke Park: 520 TURKEY VULTURES, 4 OSPREY, 2 NORTHERN HARRIERS, 16 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 1 COOPERS HAWK, 1 BROAD-WINGED HAWK, 45 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 1 GOLDEN EAGLE, 1 AMERICAN KESTREL, 1 PEREGRINE FALCON, 5 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE, 26 VAUXS SWIFTS. A HORNED LARK was seen on the floating Boardwalk at Swan Lake. 5 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE were seen with Canada GEESE in a field off Martindale Rd near Welch Rd 2 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS , 6 WESTERN SANDPIPERS, 1 LONG-BILLED DOWICHER and 1 GREATER YELLOW-LEGS were seen at MacIntyre Reservoir. 2 GREATER-WHITE-FRONTED GEESE, 1 LONG-BILLED DOWICHER and 1 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS were seen at Swan Lake. Sat Sept 26 Highlights from the Hawk Watch in East Sooke Park: 400 TURKEY VULTURES, 1 BROAD-WINGED HAWK, 25 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 2 PEREGRINE FALCONS, 1 MERLIN, 15 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 5 COOPERS HAWKS, 1 NORTHERN GOSHAWK, 2 BALD EAGLES, 1 OSPREY, 4 SANDHILL CRANES, 200 BAND-TAILED PIGEONS, 15 VAUXS SWIFTS, several BLACK SWIFTS, 3 EVENING GROSBEAKS. A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. An adult FRANKLINS GULL was seen on the sand bar by the bridge at Esquimalt Lagoon. A WHITE-THROATED SPARROW was seen at the south end of the bridge at Blenkinsop Lake. 4 SANDHILL CRANES were seen off of Sahilton Rd in Duncan. Thurs Sept 23 2 BROAD-WINGED HAWKS and a WHITE-THROATED SPARROW were seen at Rocky Point Observatory. Also there 600 TURKEY VULTURES, 1 NORTHERN HARRIER, 6 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 1 COOPERS HAWK, 6 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 1 AMERICAN KESTREL, 1 PEREGRINE FALCON, 70 VAUXS SWIFTS, 180 BAND-TAILED PIGEONS. A reminder RPBO is on DND land access is restricted to volunteers of RPBO. Mon Sept 21 A BLACK-LEGGED KITTYWAKE was seen from Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon). Also there a RING-BILLED GULL. Sun Sept 20 A PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATER was seen off Tower Point. An AMERICAN BITTERN was seen at Swan Lake. Sat Sept 19 A SWAINSONS HAWK and a NORTHERN GOSHAWK were seen at Rocky Point Bird Observatory. A reminder that RPBO is on DND land and access is restricted. Fri Sept 18 A WILLET and a RED KNOT were seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Thurs Sept 17 RBA for a RED-SHOULDERED HAWK seen at Rocky Point Bird Observatory. This would be the first record for BC. Also there a BROAD-WINGED HAWK. A reminder, RPBO is on DND property, access is restricted. RBA for a BLACK-FOOTED ALBATROSS seen from Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon). This would be the fourth record for the VNHS Check List. A RED KNOT and a WILLET were seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Wed Sept 16 A RED KNOT and WILLET were seen on Mary Todd Island which is the island closest to the Oak Bay Marina. A WESTERN PALM WARBLER was seen along the Galloping Goose Trail between Brittany Dr. and Jacklin Rd. Several SANDHILL CRANES were heard over RPBO. A reminder RPBO is on DND land and access is restricted. Tues Sept 16 A RED KNOT and a WILLET were seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. An AMERICAN BITTERN , MERLIN and a NORTHERN HARRIER were seen at Swan Lake. Mon Sept 14 A SAINSONS HAWK was seen from the Beechey Head Lookout at East Sooke Park. Also there 2 PEREGRINE FALCONS, 2 MERLINS, 6 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 3 COOPERS HAWKS, 2 NORTHERN HARRIERS, 12 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 2 BALD EAGLES and 60 TURKEY VULTURES. Sun Sept 13 A RED-EYED VIREO was heard from the zig zag portion of the floating boardwalk at Swan Lake. A WESTERN KINGBIRD was seen at RPBO. A reminder that RPBO is on DND land and access is restricted. A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Thurs Sept 10 A NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH was seen by the switch back portion of the floating boardwalk at Swan Lake. A WILLET was seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Wed Sept 9 A Willet was seen again at the foot of Bowker Ave. in Oak Bay. Tues Sept 8 A NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH was seen from the switch back portion of floating boardwalk at Swan Lake. On Monday one was seen near Tues pond. A Willet was seen from the foot of Bowker in Oak Bay. A DUSKY FLYCATCHER was seen in Pemberton Park which is off of Gonzales Ave and Richardson St. Sat Sept 5 A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. A SOLITARY SANDPIPER and a PECTORAL SANDPIPER were seen at MacIntrye Reservoir. A PECTORAL SANDPIPER and a 3 SEMI-PALMATED PLOVERS were seen at Wittys Lagoon. Hundreds of SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 10 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS, 1 SHORT-TAILED SHEARWATER and 6 FORK-TAILED STORM-PETREL were seen from the MV COHO Thurs Sept 3 A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. A BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER was seen at Wiffin Spit. A SOLITARY SANDPIPER was seen at MacIntyre Reservoir. A BAIRDS SANDPIPER was seen at Saanichton Spit. A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen on the beach east of Ogden Point. Wed Sept 2 A BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER was seen at Wiffin Spit. 2 BAIRDS SANDPIPERS were see on Saanichton Spit on the east side. Tues Sept 1 A GREEN HERON was seen at Swan Lake Sun Aug 30 400 SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 4 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS, 1 SHORT-TAILED SHEARWATER, 1 NORTHERN FULMAR, 1 FORK-TAILED STORM-PETREL, 2 CASSINS AUCKLETS, 1 TUFTED PUFFIN were seen from the MV COHO ferry in Canadian Waters. 1 RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen with BLACK TURNSTONES on the beach east of Ogden Point near where the stairs go down to the water. Sat Aug 29 RBA for a BROWN BOOBY seen perched on the mast of a fishing boat, for about 4 hrs Sat afternoon from Otter Point to the Sooke Harbour, it then flew towards East Sooke Park. Pictures to posted soon. RBA for a BROWN BOOBY seen off Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon) 7:30 in the evening. A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen on the beach east of Ogden Point below Dallas Rd at Boyd St. 22 RED-NECKED PHALAROPES were seen off the Ogden Point Breakwater. A GREEN HERON was seen on the railing of the floating Boardwalk at Swan Lake. Fri Aug 28 A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen on the beach east of Ogden Point. A CASSINS AUCKLET was seen Clover Point, also there a PARASITIC JAEGER An AMERICAN GLODEN- PLOVER was seen at Albert Head Lagoon. 200 SOOTY SHEARWATERS were seen off Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon) Thurs Aug 27 A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen with BLACK TURNSTONES on the beach just east of the Ogden Point Breakwater. An AMERICAN GODEN-PLOVER was seen at Albert Head Lagoon. 50 SOOTY SHEARWATERS and 1 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATER were seen from Tower Point(Wittys Lagoon) A SNOW GOOSE was seen at Maber Flats Wed Aug 26 RBA for a MANX SHEARWATER and a SOUTH POLAR SKUA seen from Tower Point(Wittys Lagoon), also there 150 SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 2 NORTHERN FULMARS, 2 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS, 2 PARSITC JAEGERS. 90 SOOTY SHEARWATERS , 2 PARASITC JAEGERS and 1 POMARINE JAEGER were seen from Beechy Head in East Sooke Park. Mon Aug 24 A SORA was heard in the southeast part of Rithets Bog Sun Aug 23 RBA for 1 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATER, also 2 POMARINE JAEGERS, 1 PARASTIC JAEGER, 3 SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 6 NORTHERN FULMARS and 3 SEMIPALMATED PLOVERS were seen from Tower Point(Wittys Lagoon). Also a GOLDEN EAGLE was seen on the trip there. Fri Aug 21 Highlights of birds seen from the MV COHO on a VNHS Trip to Dungeness Spit: A PARASITIC JAEGER and several SOOTY SHEARWATERS were seen on the way out, a POMARINE JAEGER was seen on the way back, all in Canadian waters. Tues Aug 18 There were a small number of RED-NECKED PHALAROPES seen off of Clover Point. 24 COMMON NIGHTHAWKS were seen over the Juan de Fuca Rec Centre Monday Aug 17 2 BANK SWALLOWS were seen at Swan Lake 1 BLACK SWIFT was seen over Hector Rd. Sun Aug 16 Highlights of birds seen from the MV COHO on a VNHS Trip to Cape Flattery. 2 PARASITIC JAEGERS, NORTHERN FULMAR and several RED- NECKED PHALAROPES Sat Aug 15 RBA for a CLAY-COLOURED SPARROW seen where the jogging trail meets the main trail on the southwest side of Swan Lake 1 SOLITARY SANDPIPER AND 1 PECTORAL SANDPIPER were seen at Rithets Bog 6 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS were seen in a ditch along Lockside Trail south of Martindale Rd near the pig farm. Friday Aug 14 6 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS were see along Lockside Trail between Martindale Rd and Dooley Rd. 1 BLACK SWIFT was seen over Portage Inlet Thurs Aug 13 3 BLACK SWIFTS were seen over Sunnygrove Ter. Wed Aug 12 2 BAIRDS SANDPIPERS were seen at Wittys Lagoon also there 2 BLUE-WINGED TEAL. Tues.. Aug. 11 1 TUFTED PUFFIN, 2 BROWN PELICANS, 1 LONG-TAILED JAEGER, 1 CASSINS AUKLET, 5 RED-NECKED PHALAROPES, and 3 ANCIENT MURRELETS were seen off Tower Point. 3 WANDERING TATTLERS were seen between Holland Point and Ogden Point Thursday Aug 6 RBA for a HERMIT WARBLER seen at 4655 Kerryiew Dr, in the Prospect Lake area, birders are welcome, Sun Aug 1 A SOLITARY SANDPIPER was seen at McIntyre Reservoir , also there 9 LONG-BILLED DOWICHERS and 1 LESSER YELLOWLEGS among the 8 species of shorebirds seen. An AMERICAN BITTERN was across the lake from the lollipop boardwalk Sat Aug 1 An AMERICAN BITTERN was seen across the lake from the lollipop boardwalk A WANDERING TATTLER was seen from the Ogden point Breakwater Highlights of a VNHS walk to Esquimalt, Albert head, and Wittys Lagoon were 2 SEMIPALMATED PLOVERS, 4 LESSER YELLOWLEGS, 1 LONG-BILLED DOWICHER and 1 SHORT-BILLED DOWICHER at Wittys Lagoon. 10 species of shorebirds were seen. Thurs. July 30 2 WANDERING TATTLERS were seen off the Ogden Point Breakwater. Wed July 29 A BANK SWALLOW was seen over Swan Lake Tues July 28 RBA A GREEN-TAILED TOWHEE was seen at Tower Point(Whitty's Lagoon). If confirmed this would be the first record for the Victoria checklist. From the clearing go up the hill to the two picnic tables and the two garbage cans. Near by are two port-a-potties. The bird was frequenting this location near the picnic tables at the edge of the forest. Rick Schortinghuis Victoria BC Subject: More Geese in Parksville From: "backyard_store" <backyard_store AT yahoo.com> Date: Sat, 14 Nov 2009 20:57:22 -0000 Hi birders, The birdstore has just had a report of one Brant Goose at Parksville Beach Community Park in with a flock of American Wigeon. Good birding Neil Robine Nanaimo British Columbia Subject: RBA Victoria, BC Fri Nov 13 From: "Rick Schortinghuis" <shylo AT islandnet.com> Date: Fri, 13 Nov 2009 20:28:11 -0800 RBA * British Columbia * Greater Victoria and Southern Vancouver Is. * Nov 13, 2009 * BCVI090312 - Transcript This is the Victoria Natural History Society's Bird Alert for Fri Nov 13 8:00pm update. Compiled and Transcribed by Rick Schortinghuis. Announcement The VNHS Sat Birding Group will be going to Wittys Lagoon this coming Sat Nov 14. Meet at the main parking lot at 8:00am Feature Birds RBA RED PHALAROPE TUNDRA SWAN SNOW BUNTING Fri Nov 13 RBA a RED PHALAROPE was seen over Swan Lake. A SNOW BUNTING was seen at Clover Point( near the sewage non treatment outfall) At Martindale there were 4 immature and 1 adult TUNDRA SWAN, 30 CACKLING CANADA GEESE, 8 GREATER-WHITE-FRONTED GEESE Thurs Nov 12 A SHORT-EARED OWL was seen at Swan Lake. 4 TOWNSENDS SOLITAIRES were seen on Mt Wells. 1 AMERICAN KESTREL,1 PEREGRINE FALCON, 1 NORTHERN HARRIER and 1 immature SNOW GOSSE were seen in the Martindale area. A RING-BILLED GULL was seen at Island-view Beach. 5 WESTERN MEADOWLARKS were seen on Saanichton Spit A SNOW GOOSE was seen on Blenkinsop Lake Wed Nov 11 An immature SNOW GOOSE was seen at Blenkinsop Lake A SHORT-EARED OWL was seen south of Martindale Rd. Sun Nov 8 A SHORT-EARED OWL was seen on Saanichton Spit. 2 NORTHERN FULMARS were seen on the VNHS Trip on the MV COHO. Thurs Nov 5 There were 9 MOURNING DOVES seen near the corner of Keating Cross Rd and Central Saanich Rd. A female RUFOUS HUMMINGBIRD was seen in Oak Bay. Wed Nov 4 A MARBLED GODWIT was seen at Cattle Point another one was reported from Holland point. Tues Nov 3 A SHORT-EARED owl was seen from Island View Rd as you go up the hill. 8 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE were seen along Martindale Rd. 8 CACKLING CANADA GEESE and 3 SNOW GEESE were seen at Pat Bay. 5 WESTERN MEADOW LARKS were seen at the northwest end of the airport. Mon Nov 2 A SHORT-EARED OWL was seen south of Martindale Rd. 2 ROCK SANDPIPERS were seen by a kayaker on rocks near Mary Todd Island. 2 NORTHERN SHRIKES, 3 WESTERN MEADOWLARKS and 1 PEREGRINE FALCON were seen on Saanichton Spit(Cordova Spit). 4 ANCIENT MURRELETS were seen off of MacAulay Point. A MARBLED GODWIT was seen off Cattle Point A WILLET was seen off the end of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Sun Nov 1 A SHORT-EARED OWL was seen hunting off McHugh Rd in Central Saanich. A BARN OWL was heard hunting in Central Saanich in the early morning hours. There were three RUDDY DUCKS on Swan Lake. Sat Oct 31 There were 8 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE seen along Martindale Rd. Wed Oct 28 A MARBLED GODWIT was seen for the second day from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay, along with seven other species for shorebirds including the WILLET. Tues Oct 27 A NORTHERN SHRIKE and a WHITE-THROATED SPARROW were seen at Swan Lake. WHITE-THROATED SPARROWS have been reported from several different locations around the lake this past week. Thurs Oct 22 A WILLET was seen on Mary Todd Island from the foot of Bowker Ave Tues Oct 20 RBA for a EMPORER GOOSE seen on the Victoria Golf Course. 5 BROWN PELICANS were seen on Race Rocks 5 BROWN PELICANS, SOTTY SHEARWATERS and a LEACHS STORM PETREL were from the MV COHO in Canadian waters A male RUSTY BLACKBIRD was seen at Galey Farm along the connector trail. An immature SNOW GOOSE was seen on the Victoria Golfcourse An immature SNOW GOOSE was seen off Lochside Dr just south of Lolbrunner. 7 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE were seen on the Lockside School grounds. 2 CACKING CANADA GEESE were seen in Martindale Sun Oct 18 2 SWAINSONS HAWKS were seen over Mt Douglas also there 2 AMERICAN KESTRELS. 4 TRUMPETER SWANS, the first of the fall season were seen over the Blenkinsop Valley. 20 EURASIAN COLLARED DOVES were seen off Wiffin Spit Rd. A PECTORAL SANDPIPER and a RUDDY TURNSTONE were seen at Wiffin Spit Sat Oct 17 7 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS were seen on the VNHS boat trip to Race Rocks, the other highlight was a pod of Dall Porpoises. Mon Oct 12 A juvenile PACIFIC GOLDEN- PLOVER was seen with BLACK-BELLIED PLOVERS on the east side of Saanichton Spit. A WILLET and a RED KNOT were seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. A juvenile GOLDEN EAGLE was seen over Swan Lake. Also there a SWAMP SPARROW, AMERICAN BITTERN, RUDDY DUCK and a REDHEAD. A LAPLAND LONGSPUR was seen south of the boat launch at Island View Beach. Sun Oct 11 A CANVASBACK, RUDDY DUCK, AMERICAN BITTERN and a REDHEAD were seen at Swan Lake. Sat Oct 10 At Kings Pond there was 1 AMERICAN TREE SPARROW seen on the east side, also 1 SWAMP SPARROW. At Swan Lake today there was: 1 RUSTY BLACKBIRD, 1 AMERICAN BITTERN, 1 RUDDY DUCK, 1 REDHEAD. There were 6 HORNED LARKS seen on Mt Douglas. Fri Oct 9 There were 7 HORNED LARKS on Mt Douglas Thurs Oct 8 There was 1 LAPLAND LONGSPUR seen on Christmas Hill. Wed Oct 7 There were 4 HORNED LARKS and 1 LAPLAND LONGSPUR seen on Christmas Hill. A WESTERN MEADOWLARK was seen at Island View Beach Mon Oct 5 There was RUSTY BLACKBIRD with BREWERS BLACKBIRDS at Swan Lake. There were three TOWNSENDS SOLITAIRS seen from the Mt Douglas lookout , also there 2 probable MOUNTAIN BLUEBIRDS, 2 SABINES GULLS and 16 ANCIENT MURRELETS were seen from Tower Point among 20,000 gulls. Sun Oct 4 A ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK was seen over Martindale Rd. There was a HORNED LARK and a TOWNSENDS SOLITAIR seen from the lookout on Mt Douglas. Sat Oct 3 2 MARBLED GODWITS were seen on the beach 500 metres north of Parker Park which is on Parker Ave. 3 SANDHILL CRANES were seen over the Blenkinsop Valley. 12 SOOTY SHEARWATERS and 1 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS were on a mini pelagic boat trip to Race Rocks, also seen a Humpback whale, A WILLET and a RED KNOT were seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. 178 SNOW GEESE were seen over Rocky Point Bird Observatory. Fri Oct 2 A TOWNSENDS SOLITAIR was seen at Saxe Point Park. A HORNED LARK was seen at Cattle Point. 3 SANDHILL CRANES were seen over Martindale Rd. 5 LAPLAND LONGSPURS were seen on CHRISTMAS HILL. Wed Sept 30 A juvenile ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK was seen at UVIC. Sun Sept 27 RBA for a COMMON GRACKLE seen from 3382 Sanderling Way in the Turnstone Development off Happy Valley Rd. Highlights from CRD Hawk Watch in East Sooke Park: 520 TURKEY VULTURES, 4 OSPREY, 2 NORTHERN HARRIERS, 16 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 1 COOPERS HAWK, 1 BROAD-WINGED HAWK, 45 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 1 GOLDEN EAGLE, 1 AMERICAN KESTREL, 1 PEREGRINE FALCON, 5 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE, 26 VAUXS SWIFTS. A HORNED LARK was seen on the floating Boardwalk at Swan Lake. 5 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE were seen with Canada GEESE in a field off Martindale Rd near Welch Rd 2 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS , 6 WESTERN SANDPIPERS, 1 LONG-BILLED DOWICHER and 1 GREATER YELLOW-LEGS were seen at MacIntyre Reservoir. 2 GREATER-WHITE-FRONTED GEESE, 1 LONG-BILLED DOWICHER and 1 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS were seen at Swan Lake. Sat Sept 26 Highlights from the Hawk Watch in East Sooke Park: 400 TURKEY VULTURES, 1 BROAD-WINGED HAWK, 25 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 2 PEREGRINE FALCONS, 1 MERLIN, 15 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 5 COOPERS HAWKS, 1 NORTHERN GOSHAWK, 2 BALD EAGLES, 1 OSPREY, 4 SANDHILL CRANES, 200 BAND-TAILED PIGEONS, 15 VAUXS SWIFTS, several BLACK SWIFTS, 3 EVENING GROSBEAKS. A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. An adult FRANKLINS GULL was seen on the sand bar by the bridge at Esquimalt Lagoon. A WHITE-THROATED SPARROW was seen at the south end of the bridge at Blenkinsop Lake. 4 SANDHILL CRANES were seen off of Sahilton Rd in Duncan. Thurs Sept 23 2 BROAD-WINGED HAWKS and a WHITE-THROATED SPARROW were seen at Rocky Point Observatory. Also there 600 TURKEY VULTURES, 1 NORTHERN HARRIER, 6 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 1 COOPERS HAWK, 6 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 1 AMERICAN KESTREL, 1 PEREGRINE FALCON, 70 VAUXS SWIFTS, 180 BAND-TAILED PIGEONS. A reminder RPBO is on DND land access is restricted to volunteers of RPBO. Mon Sept 21 A BLACK-LEGGED KITTYWAKE was seen from Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon). Also there a RING-BILLED GULL. Sun Sept 20 A PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATER was seen off Tower Point. An AMERICAN BITTERN was seen at Swan Lake. Sat Sept 19 A SWAINSONS HAWK and a NORTHERN GOSHAWK were seen at Rocky Point Bird Observatory. A reminder that RPBO is on DND land and access is restricted. Fri Sept 18 A WILLET and a RED KNOT were seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Thurs Sept 17 RBA for a RED-SHOULDERED HAWK seen at Rocky Point Bird Observatory. This would be the first record for BC. Also there a BROAD-WINGED HAWK. A reminder, RPBO is on DND property, access is restricted. RBA for a BLACK-FOOTED ALBATROSS seen from Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon). This would be the fourth record for the VNHS Check List. A RED KNOT and a WILLET were seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Wed Sept 16 A RED KNOT and WILLET were seen on Mary Todd Island which is the island closest to the Oak Bay Marina. A WESTERN PALM WARBLER was seen along the Galloping Goose Trail between Brittany Dr. and Jacklin Rd. Several SANDHILL CRANES were heard over RPBO. A reminder RPBO is on DND land and access is restricted. Tues Sept 16 A RED KNOT and a WILLET were seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. An AMERICAN BITTERN , MERLIN and a NORTHERN HARRIER were seen at Swan Lake. Mon Sept 14 A SAINSONS HAWK was seen from the Beechey Head Lookout at East Sooke Park. Also there 2 PEREGRINE FALCONS, 2 MERLINS, 6 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 3 COOPERS HAWKS, 2 NORTHERN HARRIERS, 12 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 2 BALD EAGLES and 60 TURKEY VULTURES. Sun Sept 13 A RED-EYED VIREO was heard from the zig zag portion of the floating boardwalk at Swan Lake. A WESTERN KINGBIRD was seen at RPBO. A reminder that RPBO is on DND land and access is restricted. A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Thurs Sept 10 A NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH was seen by the switch back portion of the floating boardwalk at Swan Lake. A WILLET was seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Wed Sept 9 A Willet was seen again at the foot of Bowker Ave. in Oak Bay. Tues Sept 8 A NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH was seen from the switch back portion of floating boardwalk at Swan Lake. On Monday one was seen near Tues pond. A Willet was seen from the foot of Bowker in Oak Bay. A DUSKY FLYCATCHER was seen in Pemberton Park which is off of Gonzales Ave and Richardson St. Sat Sept 5 A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. A SOLITARY SANDPIPER and a PECTORAL SANDPIPER were seen at MacIntrye Reservoir. A PECTORAL SANDPIPER and a 3 SEMI-PALMATED PLOVERS were seen at Wittys Lagoon. Hundreds of SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 10 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS, 1 SHORT-TAILED SHEARWATER and 6 FORK-TAILED STORM-PETREL were seen from the MV COHO Thurs Sept 3 A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. A BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER was seen at Wiffin Spit. A SOLITARY SANDPIPER was seen at MacIntyre Reservoir. A BAIRDS SANDPIPER was seen at Saanichton Spit. A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen on the beach east of Ogden Point. Wed Sept 2 A BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER was seen at Wiffin Spit. 2 BAIRDS SANDPIPERS were see on Saanichton Spit on the east side. Tues Sept 1 A GREEN HERON was seen at Swan Lake Sun Aug 30 400 SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 4 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS, 1 SHORT-TAILED SHEARWATER, 1 NORTHERN FULMAR, 1 FORK-TAILED STORM-PETREL, 2 CASSINS AUCKLETS, 1 TUFTED PUFFIN were seen from the MV COHO ferry in Canadian Waters. 1 RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen with BLACK TURNSTONES on the beach east of Ogden Point near where the stairs go down to the water. Sat Aug 29 RBA for a BROWN BOOBY seen perched on the mast of a fishing boat, for about 4 hrs Sat afternoon from Otter Point to the Sooke Harbour, it then flew towards East Sooke Park. Pictures to posted soon. RBA for a BROWN BOOBY seen off Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon) 7:30 in the evening. A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen on the beach east of Ogden Point below Dallas Rd at Boyd St. 22 RED-NECKED PHALAROPES were seen off the Ogden Point Breakwater. A GREEN HERON was seen on the railing of the floating Boardwalk at Swan Lake. Fri Aug 28 A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen on the beach east of Ogden Point. A CASSINS AUCKLET was seen Clover Point, also there a PARASITIC JAEGER An AMERICAN GLODEN- PLOVER was seen at Albert Head Lagoon. 200 SOOTY SHEARWATERS were seen off Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon) Thurs Aug 27 A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen with BLACK TURNSTONES on the beach just east of the Ogden Point Breakwater. An AMERICAN GODEN-PLOVER was seen at Albert Head Lagoon. 50 SOOTY SHEARWATERS and 1 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATER were seen from Tower Point(Wittys Lagoon) A SNOW GOOSE was seen at Maber Flats Wed Aug 26 RBA for a MANX SHEARWATER and a SOUTH POLAR SKUA seen from Tower Point(Wittys Lagoon), also there 150 SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 2 NORTHERN FULMARS, 2 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS, 2 PARSITC JAEGERS. 90 SOOTY SHEARWATERS , 2 PARASITC JAEGERS and 1 POMARINE JAEGER were seen from Beechy Head in East Sooke Park. Mon Aug 24 A SORA was heard in the southeast part of Rithets Bog Sun Aug 23 RBA for 1 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATER, also 2 POMARINE JAEGERS, 1 PARASTIC JAEGER, 3 SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 6 NORTHERN FULMARS and 3 SEMIPALMATED PLOVERS were seen from Tower Point(Wittys Lagoon). Also a GOLDEN EAGLE was seen on the trip there. Fri Aug 21 Highlights of birds seen from the MV COHO on a VNHS Trip to Dungeness Spit: A PARASITIC JAEGER and several SOOTY SHEARWATERS were seen on the way out, a POMARINE JAEGER was seen on the way back, all in Canadian waters. Tues Aug 18 There were a small number of RED-NECKED PHALAROPES seen off of Clover Point. 24 COMMON NIGHTHAWKS were seen over the Juan de Fuca Rec Centre Monday Aug 17 2 BANK SWALLOWS were seen at Swan Lake 1 BLACK SWIFT was seen over Hector Rd. Sun Aug 16 Highlights of birds seen from the MV COHO on a VNHS Trip to Cape Flattery. 2 PARASITIC JAEGERS, NORTHERN FULMAR and several RED- NECKED PHALAROPES Sat Aug 15 RBA for a CLAY-COLOURED SPARROW seen where the jogging trail meets the main trail on the southwest side of Swan Lake 1 SOLITARY SANDPIPER AND 1 PECTORAL SANDPIPER were seen at Rithets Bog 6 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS were seen in a ditch along Lockside Trail south of Martindale Rd near the pig farm. Friday Aug 14 6 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS were see along Lockside Trail between Martindale Rd and Dooley Rd. 1 BLACK SWIFT was seen over Portage Inlet Thurs Aug 13 3 BLACK SWIFTS were seen over Sunnygrove Ter. Wed Aug 12 2 BAIRDS SANDPIPERS were seen at Wittys Lagoon also there 2 BLUE-WINGED TEAL. Tues.. Aug. 11 1 TUFTED PUFFIN, 2 BROWN PELICANS, 1 LONG-TAILED JAEGER, 1 CASSINS AUKLET, 5 RED-NECKED PHALAROPES, and 3 ANCIENT MURRELETS were seen off Tower Point. 3 WANDERING TATTLERS were seen between Holland Point and Ogden Point Thursday Aug 6 RBA for a HERMIT WARBLER seen at 4655 Kerryiew Dr, in the Prospect Lake area, birders are welcome, Sun Aug 1 A SOLITARY SANDPIPER was seen at McIntyre Reservoir , also there 9 LONG-BILLED DOWICHERS and 1 LESSER YELLOWLEGS among the 8 species of shorebirds seen. An AMERICAN BITTERN was across the lake from the lollipop boardwalk Sat Aug 1 An AMERICAN BITTERN was seen across the lake from the lollipop boardwalk A WANDERING TATTLER was seen from the Ogden point Breakwater Highlights of a VNHS walk to Esquimalt, Albert head, and Wittys Lagoon were 2 SEMIPALMATED PLOVERS, 4 LESSER YELLOWLEGS, 1 LONG-BILLED DOWICHER and 1 SHORT-BILLED DOWICHER at Wittys Lagoon. 10 species of shorebirds were seen. Thurs. July 30 2 WANDERING TATTLERS were seen off the Ogden Point Breakwater. Wed July 29 A BANK SWALLOW was seen over Swan Lake Tues July 28 RBA A GREEN-TAILED TOWHEE was seen at Tower Point(Whitty's Lagoon). If confirmed this would be the first record for the Victoria checklist. From the clearing go up the hill to the two picnic tables and the two garbage cans. Near by are two port-a-potties. The bird was frequenting this location near the picnic tables at the edge of the forest. Rick Schortinghuis Victoria BC Subject: backyard birds From: "canadianrobin2003" <nmrobins AT telus.net> Date: Fri, 13 Nov 2009 21:32:50 -0000 Hi birders, We had about fifty Dark-eyed Juncos, Spotted Towhee, Song Sparrow, Purple and House Finches, Northern Flicker, Brewers Blackbirds, Red-winged Blackbirds and European Starlings.The birds left when a Sharp-shinned Hawk landed on a fence post. A Downy Woodpecker was in our yard for the first time since we moved here five years ago, the trees are getting bigger. We live on Meridian Way in Parksville. Good birding Neil Robins Parksville British Columbia. Subject: Missing Birder Found Alive and Well From: "Ann Nightingale" <motmot AT shaw.ca> Date: Fri, 13 Nov 2009 20:53:17 -0000 Thanks, everyone, for looking for Daniel. He was lost in the wild woods of Salt Spring Island overnight, but despite a cold night without food or water, he is fine. Ann Nightingale Victoria, BC Subject: Snow, Cackling Geese From: "canadianrobin2003" <nmrobins AT telus.net> Date: Fri, 13 Nov 2009 19:01:06 -0000 Hi birders, I have just received a report of one Snow Goose, three Cackling Geese in with a large flock of Canada Geese in the Winchelsea School grounds along Renze Road in Parksville. Good birding Neil Robins Parksville British Columbia Subject: Victoria, BC Fri Nov 13 From: "Rick Schortinghuis" <shylo AT islandnet.com> Date: Fri, 13 Nov 2009 08:08:41 -0800 RBA * British Columbia * Greater Victoria and Southern Vancouver Is. * Nov 13, 2009 * BCVI090312 - Transcript This is the Victoria Natural History Society's Bird Alert for Fri Nov 13 8:00am update. Compiled and Transcribed by Rick Schortinghuis. Announcement The VNHS Sat Birding Group will be going to Wittys Lagoon this coming Sat Nov 14. Meet at the main parking lot at 8:00am Feature Birds SHORT-EARED OWL Thurs Nov 12 A SHORT-EARED OWL was seen at Swan Lake. 4 TOWNSENDS SOLITAIRES were seen on Mt Wells. 1 AMERICAN KESTREL,1 PEREGRINE FALCON, 1 NORTHERN HARRIER and 1 immature SNOW GOSSE were seen in the Martindale area. A RING-BILLED GULL was seen at Island-view Beach. 5 WESTERN MEADOWLARKS were seen on Saanichton Spit A SNOW GOOSE was seen on Blenkinsop Lake Thurs Nov 5 There were 9 MOURNING DOVES seen near the corner of Keating Cross Rd and Central Saanich Rd. A female RUFOUS HUMMINGBIRD was seen in Oak Bay. Wed Nov 4 A MARBLED GODWIT was seen at Cattle Point another one was reported from Holland point. Tues Nov 3 A SHORT-EARED owl was seen from Island View Rd as you go up the hill. 8 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE were seen along Martindale Rd. 8 CACKLING CANADA GEESE and 3 SNOW GEESE were seen at Pat Bay. 5 WESTERN MEADOW LARKS were seen at the northwest end of the airport. Mon Nov 2 A SHORT-EARED OWL was seen south of Martindale Rd. 2 ROCK SANDPIPERS were seen by a kayaker on rocks near Mary Todd Island. 2 NORTHERN SHRIKES, 3 WESTERN MEADOWLARKS and 1 PEREGRINE FALCON were seen on Saanichton Spit(Cordova Spit). 4 ANCIENT MURRELETS were seen off of MacAulay Point. A MARBLED GODWIT was seen off Cattle Point A WILLET was seen off the end of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Sun Nov 1 A SHORT-EARED OWL was seen hunting off McHugh Rd in Central Saanich. A BARN OWL was heard hunting in Central Saanich in the early morning hours. There were three RUDDY DUCKS on Swan Lake. Sat Oct 31 There were 8 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE seen along Martindale Rd. Wed Oct 28 A MARBLED GODWIT was seen for the second day from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay, along with seven other species for shorebirds including the WILLET. Tues Oct 27 A NORTHERN SHRIKE and a WHITE-THROATED SPARROW were seen at Swan Lake. WHITE-THROATED SPARROWS have been reported from several different locations around the lake this past week. Thurs Oct 22 A WILLET was seen on Mary Todd Island from the foot of Bowker Ave Tues Oct 20 RBA for a EMPORER GOOSE seen on the Victoria Golf Course. 5 BROWN PELICANS were seen on Race Rocks 5 BROWN PELICANS, SOTTY SHEARWATERS and a LEACHS STORM PETREL were from the MV COHO in Canadian waters A male RUSTY BLACKBIRD was seen at Galey Farm along the connector trail. An immature SNOW GOOSE was seen on the Victoria Golfcourse An immature SNOW GOOSE was seen off Lochside Dr just south of Lolbrunner. 7 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE were seen on the Lockside School grounds. 2 CACKING CANADA GEESE were seen in Martindale Sun Oct 18 2 SWAINSONS HAWKS were seen over Mt Douglas also there 2 AMERICAN KESTRELS. 4 TRUMPETER SWANS, the first of the fall season were seen over the Blenkinsop Valley. 20 EURASIAN COLLARED DOVES were seen off Wiffin Spit Rd. A PECTORAL SANDPIPER and a RUDDY TURNSTONE were seen at Wiffin Spit Sat Oct 17 7 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS were seen on the VNHS boat trip to Race Rocks, the other highlight was a pod of Dall Porpoises. Mon Oct 12 A juvenile PACIFIC GOLDEN- PLOVER was seen with BLACK-BELLIED PLOVERS on the east side of Saanichton Spit. A WILLET and a RED KNOT were seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. A juvenile GOLDEN EAGLE was seen over Swan Lake. Also there a SWAMP SPARROW, AMERICAN BITTERN, RUDDY DUCK and a REDHEAD. A LAPLAND LONGSPUR was seen south of the boat launch at Island View Beach. Sun Oct 11 A CANVASBACK, RUDDY DUCK, AMERICAN BITTERN and a REDHEAD were seen at Swan Lake. Sat Oct 10 At Kings Pond there was 1 AMERICAN TREE SPARROW seen on the east side, also 1 SWAMP SPARROW. At Swan Lake today there was: 1 RUSTY BLACKBIRD, 1 AMERICAN BITTERN, 1 RUDDY DUCK, 1 REDHEAD. There were 6 HORNED LARKS seen on Mt Douglas. Fri Oct 9 There were 7 HORNED LARKS on Mt Douglas Thurs Oct 8 There was 1 LAPLAND LONGSPUR seen on Christmas Hill. Wed Oct 7 There were 4 HORNED LARKS and 1 LAPLAND LONGSPUR seen on Christmas Hill. A WESTERN MEADOWLARK was seen at Island View Beach Mon Oct 5 There was RUSTY BLACKBIRD with BREWERS BLACKBIRDS at Swan Lake. There were three TOWNSENDS SOLITAIRS seen from the Mt Douglas lookout , also there 2 probable MOUNTAIN BLUEBIRDS, 2 SABINES GULLS and 16 ANCIENT MURRELETS were seen from Tower Point among 20,000 gulls. Sun Oct 4 A ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK was seen over Martindale Rd. There was a HORNED LARK and a TOWNSENDS SOLITAIR seen from the lookout on Mt Douglas. Sat Oct 3 2 MARBLED GODWITS were seen on the beach 500 metres north of Parker Park which is on Parker Ave. 3 SANDHILL CRANES were seen over the Blenkinsop Valley. 12 SOOTY SHEARWATERS and 1 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS were on a mini pelagic boat trip to Race Rocks, also seen a Humpback whale, A WILLET and a RED KNOT were seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. 178 SNOW GEESE were seen over Rocky Point Bird Observatory. Fri Oct 2 A TOWNSENDS SOLITAIR was seen at Saxe Point Park. A HORNED LARK was seen at Cattle Point. 3 SANDHILL CRANES were seen over Martindale Rd. 5 LAPLAND LONGSPURS were seen on CHRISTMAS HILL. Wed Sept 30 A juvenile ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK was seen at UVIC. Sun Sept 27 RBA for a COMMON GRACKLE seen from 3382 Sanderling Way in the Turnstone Development off Happy Valley Rd. Highlights from CRD Hawk Watch in East Sooke Park: 520 TURKEY VULTURES, 4 OSPREY, 2 NORTHERN HARRIERS, 16 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 1 COOPERS HAWK, 1 BROAD-WINGED HAWK, 45 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 1 GOLDEN EAGLE, 1 AMERICAN KESTREL, 1 PEREGRINE FALCON, 5 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE, 26 VAUXS SWIFTS. A HORNED LARK was seen on the floating Boardwalk at Swan Lake. 5 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE were seen with Canada GEESE in a field off Martindale Rd near Welch Rd 2 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS , 6 WESTERN SANDPIPERS, 1 LONG-BILLED DOWICHER and 1 GREATER YELLOW-LEGS were seen at MacIntyre Reservoir. 2 GREATER-WHITE-FRONTED GEESE, 1 LONG-BILLED DOWICHER and 1 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS were seen at Swan Lake. Sat Sept 26 Highlights from the Hawk Watch in East Sooke Park: 400 TURKEY VULTURES, 1 BROAD-WINGED HAWK, 25 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 2 PEREGRINE FALCONS, 1 MERLIN, 15 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 5 COOPERS HAWKS, 1 NORTHERN GOSHAWK, 2 BALD EAGLES, 1 OSPREY, 4 SANDHILL CRANES, 200 BAND-TAILED PIGEONS, 15 VAUXS SWIFTS, several BLACK SWIFTS, 3 EVENING GROSBEAKS. A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. An adult FRANKLINS GULL was seen on the sand bar by the bridge at Esquimalt Lagoon. A WHITE-THROATED SPARROW was seen at the south end of the bridge at Blenkinsop Lake. 4 SANDHILL CRANES were seen off of Sahilton Rd in Duncan. Thurs Sept 23 2 BROAD-WINGED HAWKS and a WHITE-THROATED SPARROW were seen at Rocky Point Observatory. Also there 600 TURKEY VULTURES, 1 NORTHERN HARRIER, 6 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 1 COOPERS HAWK, 6 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 1 AMERICAN KESTREL, 1 PEREGRINE FALCON, 70 VAUXS SWIFTS, 180 BAND-TAILED PIGEONS. A reminder RPBO is on DND land access is restricted to volunteers of RPBO. Mon Sept 21 A BLACK-LEGGED KITTYWAKE was seen from Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon). Also there a RING-BILLED GULL. Sun Sept 20 A PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATER was seen off Tower Point. An AMERICAN BITTERN was seen at Swan Lake. Sat Sept 19 A SWAINSONS HAWK and a NORTHERN GOSHAWK were seen at Rocky Point Bird Observatory. A reminder that RPBO is on DND land and access is restricted. Fri Sept 18 A WILLET and a RED KNOT were seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Thurs Sept 17 RBA for a RED-SHOULDERED HAWK seen at Rocky Point Bird Observatory. This would be the first record for BC. Also there a BROAD-WINGED HAWK. A reminder, RPBO is on DND property, access is restricted. RBA for a BLACK-FOOTED ALBATROSS seen from Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon). This would be the fourth record for the VNHS Check List. A RED KNOT and a WILLET were seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Wed Sept 16 A RED KNOT and WILLET were seen on Mary Todd Island which is the island closest to the Oak Bay Marina. A WESTERN PALM WARBLER was seen along the Galloping Goose Trail between Brittany Dr. and Jacklin Rd. Several SANDHILL CRANES were heard over RPBO. A reminder RPBO is on DND land and access is restricted. Tues Sept 16 A RED KNOT and a WILLET were seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. An AMERICAN BITTERN , MERLIN and a NORTHERN HARRIER were seen at Swan Lake. Mon Sept 14 A SAINSONS HAWK was seen from the Beechey Head Lookout at East Sooke Park. Also there 2 PEREGRINE FALCONS, 2 MERLINS, 6 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 3 COOPERS HAWKS, 2 NORTHERN HARRIERS, 12 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 2 BALD EAGLES and 60 TURKEY VULTURES. Sun Sept 13 A RED-EYED VIREO was heard from the zig zag portion of the floating boardwalk at Swan Lake. A WESTERN KINGBIRD was seen at RPBO. A reminder that RPBO is on DND land and access is restricted. A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Thurs Sept 10 A NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH was seen by the switch back portion of the floating boardwalk at Swan Lake. A WILLET was seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Wed Sept 9 A Willet was seen again at the foot of Bowker Ave. in Oak Bay. Tues Sept 8 A NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH was seen from the switch back portion of floating boardwalk at Swan Lake. On Monday one was seen near Tues pond. A Willet was seen from the foot of Bowker in Oak Bay. A DUSKY FLYCATCHER was seen in Pemberton Park which is off of Gonzales Ave and Richardson St. Sat Sept 5 A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. A SOLITARY SANDPIPER and a PECTORAL SANDPIPER were seen at MacIntrye Reservoir. A PECTORAL SANDPIPER and a 3 SEMI-PALMATED PLOVERS were seen at Wittys Lagoon. Hundreds of SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 10 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS, 1 SHORT-TAILED SHEARWATER and 6 FORK-TAILED STORM-PETREL were seen from the MV COHO Thurs Sept 3 A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. A BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER was seen at Wiffin Spit. A SOLITARY SANDPIPER was seen at MacIntyre Reservoir. A BAIRDS SANDPIPER was seen at Saanichton Spit. A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen on the beach east of Ogden Point. Wed Sept 2 A BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER was seen at Wiffin Spit. 2 BAIRDS SANDPIPERS were see on Saanichton Spit on the east side. Tues Sept 1 A GREEN HERON was seen at Swan Lake Sun Aug 30 400 SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 4 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS, 1 SHORT-TAILED SHEARWATER, 1 NORTHERN FULMAR, 1 FORK-TAILED STORM-PETREL, 2 CASSINS AUCKLETS, 1 TUFTED PUFFIN were seen from the MV COHO ferry in Canadian Waters. 1 RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen with BLACK TURNSTONES on the beach east of Ogden Point near where the stairs go down to the water. Sat Aug 29 RBA for a BROWN BOOBY seen perched on the mast of a fishing boat, for about 4 hrs Sat afternoon from Otter Point to the Sooke Harbour, it then flew towards East Sooke Park. Pictures to posted soon. RBA for a BROWN BOOBY seen off Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon) 7:30 in the evening. A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen on the beach east of Ogden Point below Dallas Rd at Boyd St. 22 RED-NECKED PHALAROPES were seen off the Ogden Point Breakwater. A GREEN HERON was seen on the railing of the floating Boardwalk at Swan Lake. Fri Aug 28 A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen on the beach east of Ogden Point. A CASSINS AUCKLET was seen Clover Point, also there a PARASITIC JAEGER An AMERICAN GLODEN- PLOVER was seen at Albert Head Lagoon. 200 SOOTY SHEARWATERS were seen off Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon) Thurs Aug 27 A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen with BLACK TURNSTONES on the beach just east of the Ogden Point Breakwater. An AMERICAN GODEN-PLOVER was seen at Albert Head Lagoon. 50 SOOTY SHEARWATERS and 1 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATER were seen from Tower Point(Wittys Lagoon) A SNOW GOOSE was seen at Maber Flats Wed Aug 26 RBA for a MANX SHEARWATER and a SOUTH POLAR SKUA seen from Tower Point(Wittys Lagoon), also there 150 SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 2 NORTHERN FULMARS, 2 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS, 2 PARSITC JAEGERS. 90 SOOTY SHEARWATERS , 2 PARASITC JAEGERS and 1 POMARINE JAEGER were seen from Beechy Head in East Sooke Park. Mon Aug 24 A SORA was heard in the southeast part of Rithets Bog Sun Aug 23 RBA for 1 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATER, also 2 POMARINE JAEGERS, 1 PARASTIC JAEGER, 3 SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 6 NORTHERN FULMARS and 3 SEMIPALMATED PLOVERS were seen from Tower Point(Wittys Lagoon). Also a GOLDEN EAGLE was seen on the trip there. Fri Aug 21 Highlights of birds seen from the MV COHO on a VNHS Trip to Dungeness Spit: A PARASITIC JAEGER and several SOOTY SHEARWATERS were seen on the way out, a POMARINE JAEGER was seen on the way back, all in Canadian waters. Tues Aug 18 There were a small number of RED-NECKED PHALAROPES seen off of Clover Point. 24 COMMON NIGHTHAWKS were seen over the Juan de Fuca Rec Centre Monday Aug 17 2 BANK SWALLOWS were seen at Swan Lake 1 BLACK SWIFT was seen over Hector Rd. Sun Aug 16 Highlights of birds seen from the MV COHO on a VNHS Trip to Cape Flattery. 2 PARASITIC JAEGERS, NORTHERN FULMAR and several RED- NECKED PHALAROPES Sat Aug 15 RBA for a CLAY-COLOURED SPARROW seen where the jogging trail meets the main trail on the southwest side of Swan Lake 1 SOLITARY SANDPIPER AND 1 PECTORAL SANDPIPER were seen at Rithets Bog 6 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS were seen in a ditch along Lockside Trail south of Martindale Rd near the pig farm. Friday Aug 14 6 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS were see along Lockside Trail between Martindale Rd and Dooley Rd. 1 BLACK SWIFT was seen over Portage Inlet Thurs Aug 13 3 BLACK SWIFTS were seen over Sunnygrove Ter. Wed Aug 12 2 BAIRDS SANDPIPERS were seen at Wittys Lagoon also there 2 BLUE-WINGED TEAL. Tues.. Aug. 11 1 TUFTED PUFFIN, 2 BROWN PELICANS, 1 LONG-TAILED JAEGER, 1 CASSINS AUKLET, 5 RED-NECKED PHALAROPES, and 3 ANCIENT MURRELETS were seen off Tower Point. 3 WANDERING TATTLERS were seen between Holland Point and Ogden Point Thursday Aug 6 RBA for a HERMIT WARBLER seen at 4655 Kerryiew Dr, in the Prospect Lake area, birders are welcome, Sun Aug 1 A SOLITARY SANDPIPER was seen at McIntyre Reservoir , also there 9 LONG-BILLED DOWICHERS and 1 LESSER YELLOWLEGS among the 8 species of shorebirds seen. An AMERICAN BITTERN was across the lake from the lollipop boardwalk Sat Aug 1 An AMERICAN BITTERN was seen across the lake from the lollipop boardwalk A WANDERING TATTLER was seen from the Ogden point Breakwater Highlights of a VNHS walk to Esquimalt, Albert head, and Wittys Lagoon were 2 SEMIPALMATED PLOVERS, 4 LESSER YELLOWLEGS, 1 LONG-BILLED DOWICHER and 1 SHORT-BILLED DOWICHER at Wittys Lagoon. 10 species of shorebirds were seen. Thurs. July 30 2 WANDERING TATTLERS were seen off the Ogden Point Breakwater. Wed July 29 A BANK SWALLOW was seen over Swan Lake Tues July 28 RBA A GREEN-TAILED TOWHEE was seen at Tower Point(Whitty's Lagoon). If confirmed this would be the first record for the Victoria checklist. From the clearing go up the hill to the two picnic tables and the two garbage cans. Near by are two port-a-potties. The bird was frequenting this location near the picnic tables at the edge of the forest. Rick Schortinghuis Victoria BC Subject: Local Birder Missing- HELP! From: "Ann Nightingale" <motmot AT shaw.ca> Date: Fri, 13 Nov 2009 16:00:59 -0000 Hi Everyone, I just got a call from Daniel Bryant's wife. He left home to go birding at 6:30 am yesterday and has not been heard from since. Please keep your eye out for an orange Honda Element at birding locations on the island and if you see one, check to see if he needs assistance or call 911. (Yes, the police have been notified that he is missing.) If you saw Daniel anywhere yesterday, please contact Ichi at 250-361-9049. Let's hope this is a tempest in a teapot! Ann Nightingale Saanichton, BC Subject: Re: Birding VI on Twitter? From: "canadianrobin2003" <nmrobins AT telus.net> Date: Thu, 12 Nov 2009 18:50:42 -0000 Hi Cam, As the Group Moderator for this site I prefer is be more flexable and not as ridged as your post implys. As a result I am going to delete your message. This site is about reporting sightings and the enjoyment of our birding activities!! Good birding Neil Robins Parksville British Columbia --- In bcbirdingvanisland AT yahoogroups.com, "Joy & Cam" wrote: > > Dave who and where are you from? > Cam Finlay, Saanich > ----- Original Message ----- > From: Dave > To: bcbirdingvanisland AT yahoogroups.com > Sent: Wednesday, November 11, 2009 7:36 PM > Subject: [bcbirdingvanisland] Birding VI on Twitter? > > > > Any thoughts about creating a Birding VI account on Twitter? I occasionally post my bird sightings to my own account which I use to highlight local seasonal nature sightings and was thinking that it would be neat to just log in and get up to the minute rare bird posts via Twitter. > > Dave > Subject: Re: Birding VI on Twitter? From: "Joy & Cam" <joyandcamfinlay AT shaw.ca> Date: Wed, 11 Nov 2009 19:52:05 -0800 Dave who and where are you from? Cam Finlay, Saanich ----- Original Message ----- From: Dave To: bcbirdingvanisland AT yahoogroups.com Sent: Wednesday, November 11, 2009 7:36 PM Subject: [bcbirdingvanisland] Birding VI on Twitter? Any thoughts about creating a Birding VI account on Twitter? I occasionally post my bird sightings to my own account which I use to highlight local seasonal nature sightings and was thinking that it would be neat to just log in and get up to the minute rare bird posts via Twitter. Dave Subject: Birding VI on Twitter? From: "Dave" <daveingram AT canoemail.com> Date: Thu, 12 Nov 2009 03:36:40 -0000 Any thoughts about creating a Birding VI account on Twitter? I occasionally post my bird sightings to my own account which I use to highlight local seasonal nature sightings and was thinking that it would be neat to just log in and get up to the minute rare bird posts via Twitter. Dave Subject: Parksville/Qualicum Beach Tuesday bird walk, November 10, 2009 From: "canadianrobin2003" <nmrobins AT telus.net> Date: Wed, 11 Nov 2009 17:47:14 -0000 Hi birders, The Tuesday bird walk went to the Plummer Road side of the Englishman River Estuary in Parksville. The morning was cloudy with showers but the sea was calm. A Varied Thrush greeted us as we started the walk. The highlights included the sighting of a Red-tailed Hawk perched high in a tall tree overlooking the estuary and the flooded mudflats. Three Gadwall, four Northern Shovelers and a flock of Dunlin shared the incoming tide on the mud flats. A male and female Long-tailed Duck, Surf, White-winged and Black Scoters, Harlequin Ducks, Bufflehead, Common Goldeneye, Common Merganser, Red-breasted Merganser, Pacific Loons, Common Loons, Horned Grebes, Double-crested Cormorant and Pelagic Cormorant were playing hide and seek with us by diving and popping up out of the water. Fifteen birders saw and heard the following fifty-one species of birds: Canada Goose Gadwall American Wigeon Mallard Northern Shoveler Green-winged Teal Greater Scaup Harlequin Duck Surf Scoter White-winged Scoter Black Scoter Long-tailed Duck Bufflehead Common Goldeneye Hooded Merganser Common Merganser Red-breasted Merganser Pacific Loon Common Loon Horned Grebe Red-necked Grebe Double-crested Cormorant Pelagic Cormorant Great Blue Heron Bald Eagle Red-tailed Hawk Killdeer Dunlin Bonaparte's Gull Mew Gull California Gull Glaucous-winged Gull Ancient Murrelet Belted Kingfisher Northern Flicker Pileated Woodpecker Northwestern Crow Common Raven Chestnut-backed Chickadee American Robin Varied Thrush European Starling Spotted Towhee Song Sparrow Golden-crowned Sparrow Dark-eyed Junco Red-winged Blackbird Brewer's Blackbird Purple Finch House Finch Pine Siskin Good birding Neil Robins Parksville British Columbia Subject: Pair of Mourning Doves - Courtenay From: "Dave" <daveingram AT canoemail.com> Date: Tue, 10 Nov 2009 16:09:16 -0000 We've had a pair of mourning doves hanging around the neighbourhood (13th Street between Fitzgerald and England in Courtenay) for most of the day Monday. Cheers, Dave Subject: Hummingbird video From: "canadianrobin2003" <nmrobins AT telus.net> Date: Tue, 10 Nov 2009 15:48:25 -0000 Hi birders, Check out this video of a Hummingbird in Peru. Its awsome!!! http://news.bbc.co.uk/earth/hi/earth_news/newsid_8338000/8338728.stm Good birding Neil Robins Parksville British Columbia Subject: Buttertubs Marsh From: "backyard_store" <backyard_store AT yahoo.com> Date: Mon, 09 Nov 2009 00:21:08 -0000 Hi birders, We have had a report at the birdstore about the Greater White-fronted Geese and Cackling Geese and two Gadwall are still at Buttertubs Marsh in Nanaimo. Good birding Neil Robins Nanaimo British Columbia Subject: Nanaimo,Vancouver Island, bird alert--November 08, 2009, From: "backyard_store" <backyard_store AT yahoo.com> Date: Sun, 08 Nov 2009 23:09:44 -0000 NANAIMO BIRD ALERT To report your sightings phone the Store at 250-390-3669 e-mail us at thebackyard AT shaw.ca call the Bird Alert at 250-390-3029 Also check the birdstore blog for the latest bird alerts and updates: www.thebirdstore.blogspot.com Post your sightings on this site: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/bcbirdingvanisland/messages Birds of British Columbia: http://www.geog.ubc.ca/biodiversity/efauna/SpeciesChecklists.html International Birdwatching Guides http://www.guidedbirdwatching.com Birdwatching contacts and information find a local birder to go birdwatching with: http://www.birdingpal.org/ Please remember, when reporting a sighting, to leave your name and phone number, along with the date, name and location of your sighting. Sunday November 08, 2009: The Sunday Bird Walk went to the Little Qualicum River Estuary in Qualicum Beach. The morning started with light showers but the rain stopped and it was a pleasant morning for birding. The highlights included seeing a constant stream of thousands upon thousands of Bonaparte's Gulls flying into the mouth of the Little Qualicum River Estuary. We could see huge feeding frenzies of seabirds and gulls stretching along the horizon through the scopes. A flock of thirty Black Turnstones flew past low over the water. There were a large number of Bald Eagles were perched on the high Fir Trees along the river. At least ten Great Blue Herons were roosting on the estuary. Nine birders heard and saw the following forty-three species of birds: Canada Goose, Trumpeter Swan, American Wigeon, Mallard, Green-winged Teal, Harlequin Duck, Surf Scoter, White-winged Scoter, Black Scoter, Bufflehead, Common Goldeneye, Common Merganser, Red-breasted Merganser, Pacific Loon, Common Loon, Horned Grebe, Red-necked Grebe, Double-crested Cormorant, Pelagic Cormorant, Great Blue Heron, Bald Eagle, Merlin, Black Oystercatcher, Black Turnstone, Bonaparte's Gull, Mew Gull, Thayer's Gull, California Gull, Glaucous-winged Gull, Belted Kingfisher, Northern Flicker, Northwestern Crow, Common Raven, Chestnut-backed Chickadee, European Starling, White-crowned Sparrows, Golden-crowned Sparrows, Song Sparrow, Dark-eyed Junco, Red-winged Blackbird, Brewer's Blackbird, Purple Finch and House Finch. Saturday November 07: "Rare bird alert-Black-headed Gull" A winter plumaged Black-headed Gull was seen roosting with Glaucous-winged and Mew Gulls south of Qualicum Bay. The Black-headed gull is normally found in Europe, but is fairly common in Newfoundland and is found along the west coast of North America where it joins Bonaparte's Gull flocks. Four Cackling Canada Geese and three White-fronted Geese were seen again today at Buttertubs Marsh in Nanaimo. Friday November 06: A pair of Great Horned Owls were seen in Millstone Valley in East Wellington. Four Cackling Canada Geese and three White-fronted Geese were seen in with about two hundred Canada Geese at Buttertubs Marsh in Nanaimo. Wednesday November 04: A Spotted Sandpiper, a Sharp-shinned Hawk and Common Mergangers were seen from Sebastion Road in Lantzville. A Clark's Nutcracker was seen feeding among the drift logs high on the beach at Carmanah Point on the west side of Vancouver Island. Tuesday November 03: The Tuesday bird walk went to the Little Qualicum River Estuary in Qualicum Beach. The morning was cloudy and very windy at times with an occasional glimpse of the sun. The highlights of the morning included seeing thirteen Great Blue Herons resting among the tall grass on the estuary across from the houses at the start of the walk. We spotted twenty Bald Eagles perching on the tall fir trees along the river. There was a very large flock of Bonaparte's Gulls near the estuary. We watched as the gulls lifted from the water to put on their tern like show--moving in a cloud, dipping and diving as they flew. Dunlin and Black Turnstones moved along the gravel bars throughout the morning. There were several Sea Lions and Seals off shore along with Harlequin Ducks, Surf Scoters, White-winged Scoters, Black Scoters, Bufflehead and Common Goldeneye. Twenty-one birders saw and heard the following forty-three species of birds: Canada Goose, Trumpeter Swan, American Wigeon, Mallard, Green-winged Teal, Harlequin Duck, Surf Scoter, White-winged Scoter, Black Scoter, Long-tailed Duck, Bufflehead, Common Goldeneye, Common Merganser, Pacific Loon, Common Loon, Horned Grebe, Red-necked Grebe, Double-crested Cormorant, Pelagic Cormorant, Great Blue Heron, Bald Eagle, Black Oystercatcher, Black Turnstone, Dunlin, Bonaparte's Gull, Mew Gull, Ring-billed Gull, California Gull, Western Gull, Glaucous-winged Gull, Pigeon Guillemot, Belted Kingfisher, Northern Flicker, Northwestern Crow, Common Raven, Chestnut-backed Chickadee, American Robin, European Starling, Song Sparrow, Dark-eyed Junco, Red-winged Blackbird, Brewer's Blackbird and House Finch. Sunday November 01: A Northern Pygmy Owl was seen in a backyard along Garry Oak Drive in Nanoose Bay. For further information on these sightings or for help in identifying a bird please call The Backyard Wildbird and Nature Store AT 250-390-3669 Toll Free AT 1-888-249-4145 e-mail: thebackyard AT shaw.ca ********************************** The Nanoose Naturalists Guest Speaker Entemologist Evelyn Stokkink will talk about the life of the Ambrosia Beetle. Thursday November 12, 2009 AT 7:00 pm Nanoose Library, Nanoose Bay ********************************** Arrowsmith Naturalists Monday November 23, 2009 AT 7:30 pm. Springwood School Parksville ********************************** Everyone is welcome to join us for a 2-3 hour bird walk on the Sunday and Tuesday mornings. We leave from the Store at 9 A.M. Sunday Mornings and go to a different location in and around Nanaimo and from the Parksville Beach Community Park at 9 A.M. on Tuesdays and go to different areas in and around the Oceanside area. ************************************************************** The Tuesday Bird Walk on November 10, 2009 will be going to the Plummer Road side of the Englishman River Estuary in Parksville. Meet at the Parksville Beach Community Park near the parking area at the Lion's Playground at 9:00 A.M. or at the corner of Plummer Road and Shorewood Drive in Parksville at about 9:10 A.M. ***************************************************** The Sunday Bird Walk on November 15 will be going to Buttertubs Marsh. Meet at the Birdstore at 9:00 A.M. or at the parking area at Buttertubs Marsh off Bowen at about 9:20 A.M. ******************************************************* Good birding Neil Robins THE BACKYARD Wildbird & Nature Store 6314 Metral Drive, Nanaimo, BC V9T 2L8 250.390.3669 250.390.1633 fax thebackyard AT shaw.ca CHECK OUT OUR BLOG---> www.thebirdstore.blogspot.com Subject: Sunday bird walk, Nanaimo, Vancouver Island, November 08, 2009 From: "backyard_store" <backyard_store AT yahoo.com> Date: Sun, 08 Nov 2009 22:17:53 -0000 Hi birders, The Sunday Bird Walk went to the Little Qualicum River Estuary in Qualicum Beach. The morning started with light showers but the rain stopped and it was a pleasant morning for birding. The highlights included seeing a constant stream of thousands upon thousands of Bonaparte's Gulls flying into the mouth of the Little Qualicum River Estuary. We could see huge feeding frenzies of seabirds and gulls stretching along the horizon through the scopes. A flock of thirty Black Turnstones flew past low over the water. There were a large number of Bald Eagles were perched on the high Fir Trees along the river. At least ten Great Blue Herons were roosting on the estuary. Nine birders heard and saw the following forty-three species of birds: Canada Goose, Trumpeter Swan, American Wigeon, Mallard, Green-winged Teal, Harlequin Duck, Surf Scoter, White-winged Scoter, Black Scoter, Bufflehead, Common Goldeneye, Common Merganser, Red-breasted Merganser, Pacific Loon, Common Loon, Horned Grebe, Red-necked Grebe, Double-crested Cormorant, Pelagic Cormorant, Great Blue Heron, Bald Eagle, Merlin, Black Oystercatcher, Black Turnstone, Bonaparte's Gull, Mew Gull, Thayer's Gull, California Gull, Glaucous-winged Gull, Belted Kingfisher, Northern Flicker, Northwestern Crow, Common Raven, Chestnut-backed Chickadee, European Starling, White-crowned Sparrows, Golden-crowned Sparrows, Song Sparrow, Dark-eyed Junco, Red-winged Blackbird, Brewer's Blackbird, Purple Finch and House Finch. Good birding Neil Robins Nanaimo British Columbia Subject: Re: [BCVIBIRDS] Re: White-fronted and Cackling geese From: Ryan Cathers <ryancathers AT yahoo.com> Date: Sat, 7 Nov 2009 23:10:59 -0800 (PST) Hi all I hope these white fronts are still there tomorrow as i have searched unsuccesfully for this species for 5 years. I hope tomorrow is the day! Cheers, Ryan Cathers Nanaimo, BC Sent from my iPod On 7-Nov-09, at 12:41 PM, Scott Gilmore wrote: Thanks Jon for your post. The Cackling Geese and White-fronted Geese were still at Buttertubs this morning. The White-fronted Geese were all resting with their heads tucked away. It took and took me a while to spot them. Scott GilmoreUpper Lantzville --- On Sat, 11/7/09, joncbirder wrote: From: joncbirder Subject: [bcbirdingvanisland] White-fronted and Cackling geese To: bcbirdingvanisland AT yahoogroups.com Date: Saturday, November 7, 2009, 12:26 PM 4 cackling Canada geese and 3 white-fronted geese were amongst c200 common Canada geese at Buttertubs Marsh this afternoon. Details and such at: http://britbirderin bc.blogspot. com [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] __________________________________________________________________ Ask a question on any topic and get answers from real people. Go to Yahoo! Answers and share what you know at http://ca.answers.yahoo.com Subject: Black Headed Gull From: "etcon2" <tomconstable AT shaw.ca> Date: Sun, 08 Nov 2009 01:01:49 -0000 We found a Black Headed Gull with a large group of Misc. Gulls We observed it for 15 minutes before he flew off in the direction of Qualicum Bay. Tom & Evelyn Constable Qualicum Beach Subject: Re: White-fronted and Cackling geese From: Scott Gilmore <kingstonstamps AT yahoo.com> Date: Sat, 7 Nov 2009 12:41:16 -0800 (PST) Thanks Jon for your post. The Cackling Geese and White-fronted Geese were still at Buttertubs this morning. The White-fronted Geese were all resting with their heads tucked away. It took and took me a while to spot them. Scott GilmoreUpper Lantzville --- On Sat, 11/7/09, joncbirder wrote: From: joncbirder Subject: [bcbirdingvanisland] White-fronted and Cackling geese To: bcbirdingvanisland AT yahoogroups.com Date: Saturday, November 7, 2009, 12:26 PM   4 cackling Canada geese and 3 white-fronted geese were amongst c200 common Canada geese at Buttertubs Marsh this afternoon. Details and such at: http://britbirderin bc.blogspot. com Subject: White-fronted and Cackling geese From: "joncbirder" <jon.carter AT fsmail.net> Date: Sat, 07 Nov 2009 01:26:42 -0000 4 cackling Canada geese and 3 white-fronted geese were amongst c200 common Canada geese at Buttertubs Marsh this afternoon. Details and such at: http://britbirderinbc.blogspot.com Subject: RBA Victoria, BC Fri Nov 6 From: "Rick Schortinghuis" <shylo AT islandnet.com> Date: Fri, 6 Nov 2009 08:22:25 -0800 RBA * British Columbia * Greater Victoria and Southern Vancouver Is. * Nov 6, 2009 * BCVI090312 - Transcript This is the Victoria Natural History Society's Bird Alert for Fri Nov 6 8:00am update. Compiled and Transcribed by Rick Schortinghuis. Announcement The VNHS Sat Birding Group will be going to Wittys Lagoon this coming Sat Nov 5. Meet at the main parking lot at 8:00am Feature Birds MARBLED GODWIT SHORT-EARED OWL Thurs Nov 5 There were 9 MOURNING DOVES seen near the corner of Keating Cross Rd and Central Saanich Rd. A female RUFOUS HUMMINGBIRD was seen in Oak Bay. Wed Nov 4 A MARBLED GODWIT was seen at Cattle Point another one was reported from Holland point. Tues Nov 3 A SHORT-EARED owl was seen from Island View Rd as you go up the hill. 8 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE were seen along Martindale Rd. 8 CACKLING CANADA GEESE and 3 SNOW GEESE were seen at Pat Bay. 5 WESTERN MEADOW LARKS were seen at the northwest end of the airport. Mon Nov 2 A SHORT-EARED OWL was seen south of Martindale Rd. 2 ROCK SANDPIPERS were seen by a kayaker on rocks near Mary Todd Island. 2 NORTHERN SHRIKES, 3 WESTERN MEADOWLARKS and 1 PEREGRINE FALCON were seen on Saanichton Spit(Cordova Spit). 4 ANCIENT MURRELETS were seen off of MacAulay Point. A MARBLED GODWIT was seen off Cattle Point A WILLET was seen off the end of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Sun Nov 1 A SHORT-EARED OWL was seen hunting off McHugh Rd in Central Saanich. A BARN OWL was heard hunting in Central Saanich in the early morning hours. There were three RUDDY DUCKS on Swan Lake. Sat Oct 31 There were 8 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE seen along Martindale Rd. Wed Oct 28 A MARBLED GODWIT was seen for the second day from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay, along with seven other species for shorebirds including the WILLET. Tues Oct 27 A NORTHERN SHRIKE and a WHITE-THROATED SPARROW were seen at Swan Lake. WHITE-THROATED SPARROWS have been reported from several different locations around the lake this past week. Thurs Oct 22 A WILLET was seen on Mary Todd Island from the foot of Bowker Ave Tues Oct 20 RBA for a EMPORER GOOSE seen on the Victoria Golf Course. 5 BROWN PELICANS were seen on Race Rocks 5 BROWN PELICANS, SOTTY SHEARWATERS and a LEACHS STORM PETREL were from the MV COHO in Canadian waters A male RUSTY BLACKBIRD was seen at Galey Farm along the connector trail. An immature SNOW GOOSE was seen on the Victoria Golfcourse An immature SNOW GOOSE was seen off Lochside Dr just south of Lolbrunner. 7 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE were seen on the Lockside School grounds. 2 CACKING CANADA GEESE were seen in Martindale Sun Oct 18 2 SWAINSONS HAWKS were seen over Mt Douglas also there 2 AMERICAN KESTRELS. 4 TRUMPETER SWANS, the first of the fall season were seen over the Blenkinsop Valley. 20 EURASIAN COLLARED DOVES were seen off Wiffin Spit Rd. A PECTORAL SANDPIPER and a RUDDY TURNSTONE were seen at Wiffin Spit Sat Oct 17 7 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS were seen on the VNHS boat trip to Race Rocks, the other highlight was a pod of Dall Porpoises. Mon Oct 12 A juvenile PACIFIC GOLDEN- PLOVER was seen with BLACK-BELLIED PLOVERS on the east side of Saanichton Spit. A WILLET and a RED KNOT were seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. A juvenile GOLDEN EAGLE was seen over Swan Lake. Also there a SWAMP SPARROW, AMERICAN BITTERN, RUDDY DUCK and a REDHEAD. A LAPLAND LONGSPUR was seen south of the boat launch at Island View Beach. Sun Oct 11 A CANVASBACK, RUDDY DUCK, AMERICAN BITTERN and a REDHEAD were seen at Swan Lake. Sat Oct 10 At Kings Pond there was 1 AMERICAN TREE SPARROW seen on the east side, also 1 SWAMP SPARROW. At Swan Lake today there was: 1 RUSTY BLACKBIRD, 1 AMERICAN BITTERN, 1 RUDDY DUCK, 1 REDHEAD. There were 6 HORNED LARKS seen on Mt Douglas. Fri Oct 9 There were 7 HORNED LARKS on Mt Douglas Thurs Oct 8 There was 1 LAPLAND LONGSPUR seen on Christmas Hill. Wed Oct 7 There were 4 HORNED LARKS and 1 LAPLAND LONGSPUR seen on Christmas Hill. A WESTERN MEADOWLARK was seen at Island View Beach Mon Oct 5 There was RUSTY BLACKBIRD with BREWERS BLACKBIRDS at Swan Lake. There were three TOWNSENDS SOLITAIRS seen from the Mt Douglas lookout , also there 2 probable MOUNTAIN BLUEBIRDS, 2 SABINES GULLS and 16 ANCIENT MURRELETS were seen from Tower Point among 20,000 gulls. Sun Oct 4 A ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK was seen over Martindale Rd. There was a HORNED LARK and a TOWNSENDS SOLITAIR seen from the lookout on Mt Douglas. Sat Oct 3 2 MARBLED GODWITS were seen on the beach 500 metres north of Parker Park which is on Parker Ave. 3 SANDHILL CRANES were seen over the Blenkinsop Valley. 12 SOOTY SHEARWATERS and 1 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS were on a mini pelagic boat trip to Race Rocks, also seen a Humpback whale, A WILLET and a RED KNOT were seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. 178 SNOW GEESE were seen over Rocky Point Bird Observatory. Fri Oct 2 A TOWNSENDS SOLITAIR was seen at Saxe Point Park. A HORNED LARK was seen at Cattle Point. 3 SANDHILL CRANES were seen over Martindale Rd. 5 LAPLAND LONGSPURS were seen on CHRISTMAS HILL. Wed Sept 30 A juvenile ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK was seen at UVIC. Sun Sept 27 RBA for a COMMON GRACKLE seen from 3382 Sanderling Way in the Turnstone Development off Happy Valley Rd. Highlights from CRD Hawk Watch in East Sooke Park: 520 TURKEY VULTURES, 4 OSPREY, 2 NORTHERN HARRIERS, 16 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 1 COOPERS HAWK, 1 BROAD-WINGED HAWK, 45 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 1 GOLDEN EAGLE, 1 AMERICAN KESTREL, 1 PEREGRINE FALCON, 5 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE, 26 VAUXS SWIFTS. A HORNED LARK was seen on the floating Boardwalk at Swan Lake. 5 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE were seen with Canada GEESE in a field off Martindale Rd near Welch Rd 2 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS , 6 WESTERN SANDPIPERS, 1 LONG-BILLED DOWICHER and 1 GREATER YELLOW-LEGS were seen at MacIntyre Reservoir. 2 GREATER-WHITE-FRONTED GEESE, 1 LONG-BILLED DOWICHER and 1 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS were seen at Swan Lake. Sat Sept 26 Highlights from the Hawk Watch in East Sooke Park: 400 TURKEY VULTURES, 1 BROAD-WINGED HAWK, 25 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 2 PEREGRINE FALCONS, 1 MERLIN, 15 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 5 COOPERS HAWKS, 1 NORTHERN GOSHAWK, 2 BALD EAGLES, 1 OSPREY, 4 SANDHILL CRANES, 200 BAND-TAILED PIGEONS, 15 VAUXS SWIFTS, several BLACK SWIFTS, 3 EVENING GROSBEAKS. A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. An adult FRANKLINS GULL was seen on the sand bar by the bridge at Esquimalt Lagoon. A WHITE-THROATED SPARROW was seen at the south end of the bridge at Blenkinsop Lake. 4 SANDHILL CRANES were seen off of Sahilton Rd in Duncan. Thurs Sept 23 2 BROAD-WINGED HAWKS and a WHITE-THROATED SPARROW were seen at Rocky Point Observatory. Also there 600 TURKEY VULTURES, 1 NORTHERN HARRIER, 6 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 1 COOPERS HAWK, 6 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 1 AMERICAN KESTREL, 1 PEREGRINE FALCON, 70 VAUXS SWIFTS, 180 BAND-TAILED PIGEONS. A reminder RPBO is on DND land access is restricted to volunteers of RPBO. Mon Sept 21 A BLACK-LEGGED KITTYWAKE was seen from Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon). Also there a RING-BILLED GULL. Sun Sept 20 A PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATER was seen off Tower Point. An AMERICAN BITTERN was seen at Swan Lake. Sat Sept 19 A SWAINSONS HAWK and a NORTHERN GOSHAWK were seen at Rocky Point Bird Observatory. A reminder that RPBO is on DND land and access is restricted. Fri Sept 18 A WILLET and a RED KNOT were seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Thurs Sept 17 RBA for a RED-SHOULDERED HAWK seen at Rocky Point Bird Observatory. This would be the first record for BC. Also there a BROAD-WINGED HAWK. A reminder, RPBO is on DND property, access is restricted. RBA for a BLACK-FOOTED ALBATROSS seen from Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon). This would be the fourth record for the VNHS Check List. A RED KNOT and a WILLET were seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Wed Sept 16 A RED KNOT and WILLET were seen on Mary Todd Island which is the island closest to the Oak Bay Marina. A WESTERN PALM WARBLER was seen along the Galloping Goose Trail between Brittany Dr. and Jacklin Rd. Several SANDHILL CRANES were heard over RPBO. A reminder RPBO is on DND land and access is restricted. Tues Sept 16 A RED KNOT and a WILLET were seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. An AMERICAN BITTERN , MERLIN and a NORTHERN HARRIER were seen at Swan Lake. Mon Sept 14 A SAINSONS HAWK was seen from the Beechey Head Lookout at East Sooke Park. Also there 2 PEREGRINE FALCONS, 2 MERLINS, 6 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 3 COOPERS HAWKS, 2 NORTHERN HARRIERS, 12 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 2 BALD EAGLES and 60 TURKEY VULTURES. Sun Sept 13 A RED-EYED VIREO was heard from the zig zag portion of the floating boardwalk at Swan Lake. A WESTERN KINGBIRD was seen at RPBO. A reminder that RPBO is on DND land and access is restricted. A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Thurs Sept 10 A NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH was seen by the switch back portion of the floating boardwalk at Swan Lake. A WILLET was seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Wed Sept 9 A Willet was seen again at the foot of Bowker Ave. in Oak Bay. Tues Sept 8 A NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH was seen from the switch back portion of floating boardwalk at Swan Lake. On Monday one was seen near Tues pond. A Willet was seen from the foot of Bowker in Oak Bay. A DUSKY FLYCATCHER was seen in Pemberton Park which is off of Gonzales Ave and Richardson St. Sat Sept 5 A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. A SOLITARY SANDPIPER and a PECTORAL SANDPIPER were seen at MacIntrye Reservoir. A PECTORAL SANDPIPER and a 3 SEMI-PALMATED PLOVERS were seen at Wittys Lagoon. Hundreds of SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 10 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS, 1 SHORT-TAILED SHEARWATER and 6 FORK-TAILED STORM-PETREL were seen from the MV COHO Thurs Sept 3 A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. A BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER was seen at Wiffin Spit. A SOLITARY SANDPIPER was seen at MacIntyre Reservoir. A BAIRDS SANDPIPER was seen at Saanichton Spit. A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen on the beach east of Ogden Point. Wed Sept 2 A BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER was seen at Wiffin Spit. 2 BAIRDS SANDPIPERS were see on Saanichton Spit on the east side. Tues Sept 1 A GREEN HERON was seen at Swan Lake Sun Aug 30 400 SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 4 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS, 1 SHORT-TAILED SHEARWATER, 1 NORTHERN FULMAR, 1 FORK-TAILED STORM-PETREL, 2 CASSINS AUCKLETS, 1 TUFTED PUFFIN were seen from the MV COHO ferry in Canadian Waters. 1 RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen with BLACK TURNSTONES on the beach east of Ogden Point near where the stairs go down to the water. Sat Aug 29 RBA for a BROWN BOOBY seen perched on the mast of a fishing boat, for about 4 hrs Sat afternoon from Otter Point to the Sooke Harbour, it then flew towards East Sooke Park. Pictures to posted soon. RBA for a BROWN BOOBY seen off Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon) 7:30 in the evening. A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen on the beach east of Ogden Point below Dallas Rd at Boyd St. 22 RED-NECKED PHALAROPES were seen off the Ogden Point Breakwater. A GREEN HERON was seen on the railing of the floating Boardwalk at Swan Lake. Fri Aug 28 A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen on the beach east of Ogden Point. A CASSINS AUCKLET was seen Clover Point, also there a PARASITIC JAEGER An AMERICAN GLODEN- PLOVER was seen at Albert Head Lagoon. 200 SOOTY SHEARWATERS were seen off Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon) Thurs Aug 27 A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen with BLACK TURNSTONES on the beach just east of the Ogden Point Breakwater. An AMERICAN GODEN-PLOVER was seen at Albert Head Lagoon. 50 SOOTY SHEARWATERS and 1 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATER were seen from Tower Point(Wittys Lagoon) A SNOW GOOSE was seen at Maber Flats Wed Aug 26 RBA for a MANX SHEARWATER and a SOUTH POLAR SKUA seen from Tower Point(Wittys Lagoon), also there 150 SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 2 NORTHERN FULMARS, 2 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS, 2 PARSITC JAEGERS. 90 SOOTY SHEARWATERS , 2 PARASITC JAEGERS and 1 POMARINE JAEGER were seen from Beechy Head in East Sooke Park. Mon Aug 24 A SORA was heard in the southeast part of Rithets Bog Sun Aug 23 RBA for 1 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATER, also 2 POMARINE JAEGERS, 1 PARASTIC JAEGER, 3 SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 6 NORTHERN FULMARS and 3 SEMIPALMATED PLOVERS were seen from Tower Point(Wittys Lagoon). Also a GOLDEN EAGLE was seen on the trip there. Fri Aug 21 Highlights of birds seen from the MV COHO on a VNHS Trip to Dungeness Spit: A PARASITIC JAEGER and several SOOTY SHEARWATERS were seen on the way out, a POMARINE JAEGER was seen on the way back, all in Canadian waters. Tues Aug 18 There were a small number of RED-NECKED PHALAROPES seen off of Clover Point. 24 COMMON NIGHTHAWKS were seen over the Juan de Fuca Rec Centre Monday Aug 17 2 BANK SWALLOWS were seen at Swan Lake 1 BLACK SWIFT was seen over Hector Rd. Sun Aug 16 Highlights of birds seen from the MV COHO on a VNHS Trip to Cape Flattery. 2 PARASITIC JAEGERS, NORTHERN FULMAR and several RED- NECKED PHALAROPES Sat Aug 15 RBA for a CLAY-COLOURED SPARROW seen where the jogging trail meets the main trail on the southwest side of Swan Lake 1 SOLITARY SANDPIPER AND 1 PECTORAL SANDPIPER were seen at Rithets Bog 6 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS were seen in a ditch along Lockside Trail south of Martindale Rd near the pig farm. Friday Aug 14 6 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS were see along Lockside Trail between Martindale Rd and Dooley Rd. 1 BLACK SWIFT was seen over Portage Inlet Thurs Aug 13 3 BLACK SWIFTS were seen over Sunnygrove Ter. Wed Aug 12 2 BAIRDS SANDPIPERS were seen at Wittys Lagoon also there 2 BLUE-WINGED TEAL. Tues.. Aug. 11 1 TUFTED PUFFIN, 2 BROWN PELICANS, 1 LONG-TAILED JAEGER, 1 CASSINS AUKLET, 5 RED-NECKED PHALAROPES, and 3 ANCIENT MURRELETS were seen off Tower Point. 3 WANDERING TATTLERS were seen between Holland Point and Ogden Point Thursday Aug 6 RBA for a HERMIT WARBLER seen at 4655 Kerryiew Dr, in the Prospect Lake area, birders are welcome, Sun Aug 1 A SOLITARY SANDPIPER was seen at McIntyre Reservoir , also there 9 LONG-BILLED DOWICHERS and 1 LESSER YELLOWLEGS among the 8 species of shorebirds seen. An AMERICAN BITTERN was across the lake from the lollipop boardwalk Sat Aug 1 An AMERICAN BITTERN was seen across the lake from the lollipop boardwalk A WANDERING TATTLER was seen from the Ogden point Breakwater Highlights of a VNHS walk to Esquimalt, Albert head, and Wittys Lagoon were 2 SEMIPALMATED PLOVERS, 4 LESSER YELLOWLEGS, 1 LONG-BILLED DOWICHER and 1 SHORT-BILLED DOWICHER at Wittys Lagoon. 10 species of shorebirds were seen. Thurs. July 30 2 WANDERING TATTLERS were seen off the Ogden Point Breakwater. Wed July 29 A BANK SWALLOW was seen over Swan Lake Tues July 28 RBA A GREEN-TAILED TOWHEE was seen at Tower Point(Whitty's Lagoon). If confirmed this would be the first record for the Victoria checklist. From the clearing go up the hill to the two picnic tables and the two garbage cans. Near by are two port-a-potties. The bird was frequenting this location near the picnic tables at the edge of the forest. Rick Schortinghuis Victoria BC Subject: Parksville Qualicum Beach CBC date From: "saninerr" <saninerr AT shaw.ca> Date: Wed, 04 Nov 2009 23:35:16 -0000 Plans are underway for our 19th Parksville Qualicum Beach Christmas Bird Count on Sunday, December 20, 2009. The St. Anne's / St. Edmund's Church Hall on Wembley Road has been booked for the traditional Post-Count-Potluck, 5-8pm. Buckerfields in Parksville has once again agreed to serve as a pick up and drop off location for the Feedercount Checklists. I encourage new and past participants to volunteer this year … we need as many birders as possible in the field or at their feeders with a checklist in hand. Three team leaders have already signed up but we desperately need more! … we usually have 8 teams. Please let me know ASAP if you are able to join a team 'in the field' ... OR ... if you live within the Count Circle you may pick up a Feedercount Checklist -at the November 23 meeting of Arrowsmith Naturalists, Springwood School, Parksville, 7:30pm. -at Buckerfields in Parksville, after December 1. OR I can email the Feedercount Checklist to you directly. If you know of other people or groups possibly interested in participating `in the field' or as a `Feedercounter' or anyone who might want more information, please feel free to pass on my phone # and/or email address. Any help you can provide with lining up more CBC participants will be greatly appreciated. Thank You Sandra Gray BCPQ Compiler 250 248-5565 saninerr AT shaw.ca Subject: Spotted Sandpiper From: "cancoot" <cancoot AT yahoo.ca> Date: Wed, 04 Nov 2009 20:44:22 -0000 I saw the Spotted Sandpiper at the foot of Sebastion Rd.,in Lantzville,for the first time this Fall. It was between 11 and 12 o'clock this morning. I'm pretty sure it's the same one that's been wintering here for the last 3 or 4 years. Cheers,Ralph Hocken Lantzville,BC Subject: Clark's Nutcracker at Carmanah Point From: "gke_55" <karmanah AT islandnet.com> Date: Wed, 04 Nov 2009 19:11:20 -0000 Hello, It is a beautiful sunny day here, so I went for a short walk on the beach. To my surprise I saw a Clark's Nutcracker feeding among the drift logs high on the beach. I'll post a picture in the photos section in Jerry's photos. Jerry Etzkorn Carmanah Point Lightstation Subject: Colony Farm Banding Results From: "derekjmatthews" <Derek AT birdvancouver.com> Date: Wed, 04 Nov 2009 17:05:32 -0000 Hi Birders and Banders, We completed our last banding session of the season at Colony Farm on Sunday and I have posted the results in a 4 page document in the files section of the site called `Colony Farm Banding Results' Our final total was 3,176 new birds banded of 63 species with 236 retrapped birds which was amazing both in terms of abundance and species diversity especially considering our banding effort is all volunteer and therefore restricted to mostly weekends. We have drawn some important initial conclusions from the data we have been able to collect which includes the significance of the habitat at Colony Farm for both migratory and breeding birds and the importance of the site for dispersing juvenile (hatch year) birds. The data is being presented to MetroVancouver this week and will be considered as part of the draft Colony Farm sustainability plan report for the park. We were surprised at the species diversity which included a number of rare and `specialty' birds including: Brown Thrasher, Ash-throated Flycatcher, Dusky Flycatcher, Gray Catbird, Eastern Kingbird, Western Kingbird, White-throated Sparrow, Northern Shrike & Lazuli Bunting. We all wondered what might have shown up had we been able to band every day during spring and fall migration! We have some very exciting plans to expand the banding program for 2010 and to move towards our vision of creating one of the largest, year round, professional banding operations in Canada. I would like to specially acknowledge the efforts of Dev Manky and Mike Boyd our two expert banders for their knowledge, skill, enthusiasm and support – we could not have done it without you guys! Also to Les Lee for his help with inputting all the data and for always being available for any task which showed up – we'll make a bander of you yet! And finally I want to say a huge thank you to everybody who helped make 2009 and our first season at Colony Farm such a success – Between our banding efforts and the Banding and ID Workshops 2009 was an amazing year for us. Thanks again. Derek Matthews Vancouver Avian Research Centre www.birdvancouver.com Subject: Parksville/Qualicum Beach Tuesday bird walk, November 03, 2009 From: "canadianrobin2003" <nmrobins AT telus.net> Date: Wed, 04 Nov 2009 04:09:43 -0000 Hi birders, The Tuesday bird walk went to the Little Qualicum River Estuary in Qualicum Beach. The morning was cloudy and very windy at times with an occasional glimpse of the sun. The highlights of the morning included seeing thirteen Great Blue Herons resting among the tall grass on the estuary across from the houses at the start of the walk. We spotted twenty Bald Eagles perching on the tall fir trees along the river. There was a very large flock of Bonaparte's Gulls near the estuary. We watched as the gulls lifted from the water to put on their tern like show--moving in a cloud, dipping and diving as they flew. Dunlin and Black Turnstones moved along the gravel bars throughout the morning. There were several Sea Lions and Seals off shore along with Harlequin Ducks, Surf Scoters, White-winged Scoters, Black Scoters, Bufflehead and Common Goldeneye. Twenty-one birders saw and heard the following forty-three species of birds: Canada Goose Trumpeter Swan American Wigeon Mallard Green-winged Teal Harlequin Duck Surf Scoter White-winged Scoter Black Scoter Long-tailed Duck Bufflehead Common Goldeneye Common Merganser Pacific Loon Common Loon Horned Grebe Red-necked Grebe Double-crested Cormorant Pelagic Cormorant Great Blue Heron Bald Eagle Black Oystercatcher Black Turnstone Dunlin Bonaparte's Gull Mew Gull Ring-billed Gull California Gull Western Gull Glaucous-winged Gull Pigeon Guillemot Belted Kingfisher Northern Flicker Northwestern Crow Common Raven Chestnut-backed Chickadee American Robin European Starling Song Sparrow Dark-eyed Junco Red-winged Blackbird Brewer's Blackbird House Finch Good birding Neil Robins Parksville British Columbia Subject: Nanaimo River estuary From: "joncbirder" <jon.carter AT fsmail.net> Date: Tue, 03 Nov 2009 22:46:12 -0000 2 northern shrikes, 2 northern harriers, 1 short-eared owl and 12 dowitchers in the area this morning. Further details at: http://britbirderinbc.blogspot.com Subject: RBA Victoria, BC Mon Nov 2 From: "Rick Schortinghuis" <shylo AT islandnet.com> Date: Mon, 2 Nov 2009 20:06:57 -0800 RBA * British Columbia * Greater Victoria and Southern Vancouver Is. * Nov 2, 2009 * BCVI090312 - Transcript This is the Victoria Natural History Society's Bird Alert for Mon Nov 2 8:00pm update. Compiled and Transcribed by Rick Schortinghuis. Feature Birds ROCK SANDPIPER Mon Nov 2 2 ROCK SANDPIPERS were seen by a kayaker on rocks near Mary Todd Island. 2 NORTHERN SHRIKES, 3 WESTERN MEADOWLARKS and 1 PEREGRINE FALCON were seen on Saanichton Spit(Cordova Spit). 4 ANCIENT MURRELETS were seen off of MacAulay Point. A MARBLED GODWIT was seen off Cattle Point A WILLET was seen off the end of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Sun Nov 1 A SHORT-EARED OWL was seen hunting off McHugh Rd in Central Saanich. A BARN OWL was heard hunting in Central Saanich in the early morning hours. There were three RUDDY DUCKS on Swan Lake. Sat Oct 31 There were 8 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE seen along Martindale Rd. Wed Oct 28 A MARBLED GODWIT was seen for the second day from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay, along with seven other species for shorebirds including the WILLET. Tues Oct 27 A NORTHERN SHRIKE and a WHITE-THROATED SPARROW were seen at Swan Lake. WHITE-THROATED SPARROWS have been reported from several different locations around the lake this past week. Thurs Oct 22 A WILLET was seen on Mary Todd Island from the foot of Bowker Ave Tues Oct 20 RBA for a EMPORER GOOSE seen on the Victoria Golf Course. 5 BROWN PELICANS were seen on Race Rocks 5 BROWN PELICANS, SOTTY SHEARWATERS and a LEACHS STORM PETREL were from the MV COHO in Canadian waters A male RUSTY BLACKBIRD was seen at Galey Farm along the connector trail. An immature SNOW GOOSE was seen on the Victoria Golfcourse An immature SNOW GOOSE was seen off Lochside Dr just south of Lolbrunner. 7 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE were seen on the Lockside School grounds. 2 CACKING CANADA GEESE were seen in Martindale Sun Oct 18 2 SWAINSONS HAWKS were seen over Mt Douglas also there 2 AMERICAN KESTRELS. 4 TRUMPETER SWANS, the first of the fall season were seen over the Blenkinsop Valley. 20 EURASIAN COLLARED DOVES were seen off Wiffin Spit Rd. A PECTORAL SANDPIPER and a RUDDY TURNSTONE were seen at Wiffin Spit Sat Oct 17 7 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS were seen on the VNHS boat trip to Race Rocks, the other highlight was a pod of Dall Porpoises. Mon Oct 12 A juvenile PACIFIC GOLDEN- PLOVER was seen with BLACK-BELLIED PLOVERS on the east side of Saanichton Spit. A WILLET and a RED KNOT were seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. A juvenile GOLDEN EAGLE was seen over Swan Lake. Also there a SWAMP SPARROW, AMERICAN BITTERN, RUDDY DUCK and a REDHEAD. A LAPLAND LONGSPUR was seen south of the boat launch at Island View Beach. Sun Oct 11 A CANVASBACK, RUDDY DUCK, AMERICAN BITTERN and a REDHEAD were seen at Swan Lake. Sat Oct 10 At Kings Pond there was 1 AMERICAN TREE SPARROW seen on the east side, also 1 SWAMP SPARROW. At Swan Lake today there was: 1 RUSTY BLACKBIRD, 1 AMERICAN BITTERN, 1 RUDDY DUCK, 1 REDHEAD. There were 6 HORNED LARKS seen on Mt Douglas. Fri Oct 9 There were 7 HORNED LARKS on Mt Douglas Thurs Oct 8 There was 1 LAPLAND LONGSPUR seen on Christmas Hill. Wed Oct 7 There were 4 HORNED LARKS and 1 LAPLAND LONGSPUR seen on Christmas Hill. A WESTERN MEADOWLARK was seen at Island View Beach Mon Oct 5 There was RUSTY BLACKBIRD with BREWERS BLACKBIRDS at Swan Lake. There were three TOWNSENDS SOLITAIRS seen from the Mt Douglas lookout , also there 2 probable MOUNTAIN BLUEBIRDS, 2 SABINES GULLS and 16 ANCIENT MURRELETS were seen from Tower Point among 20,000 gulls. Sun Oct 4 A ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK was seen over Martindale Rd. There was a HORNED LARK and a TOWNSENDS SOLITAIR seen from the lookout on Mt Douglas. Sat Oct 3 2 MARBLED GODWITS were seen on the beach 500 metres north of Parker Park which is on Parker Ave. 3 SANDHILL CRANES were seen over the Blenkinsop Valley. 12 SOOTY SHEARWATERS and 1 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS were on a mini pelagic boat trip to Race Rocks, also seen a Humpback whale, A WILLET and a RED KNOT were seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. 178 SNOW GEESE were seen over Rocky Point Bird Observatory. Fri Oct 2 A TOWNSENDS SOLITAIR was seen at Saxe Point Park. A HORNED LARK was seen at Cattle Point. 3 SANDHILL CRANES were seen over Martindale Rd. 5 LAPLAND LONGSPURS were seen on CHRISTMAS HILL. Wed Sept 30 A juvenile ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK was seen at UVIC. Sun Sept 27 RBA for a COMMON GRACKLE seen from 3382 Sanderling Way in the Turnstone Development off Happy Valley Rd. Highlights from CRD Hawk Watch in East Sooke Park: 520 TURKEY VULTURES, 4 OSPREY, 2 NORTHERN HARRIERS, 16 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 1 COOPERS HAWK, 1 BROAD-WINGED HAWK, 45 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 1 GOLDEN EAGLE, 1 AMERICAN KESTREL, 1 PEREGRINE FALCON, 5 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE, 26 VAUXS SWIFTS. A HORNED LARK was seen on the floating Boardwalk at Swan Lake. 5 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE were seen with Canada GEESE in a field off Martindale Rd near Welch Rd 2 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS , 6 WESTERN SANDPIPERS, 1 LONG-BILLED DOWICHER and 1 GREATER YELLOW-LEGS were seen at MacIntyre Reservoir. 2 GREATER-WHITE-FRONTED GEESE, 1 LONG-BILLED DOWICHER and 1 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS were seen at Swan Lake. Sat Sept 26 Highlights from the Hawk Watch in East Sooke Park: 400 TURKEY VULTURES, 1 BROAD-WINGED HAWK, 25 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 2 PEREGRINE FALCONS, 1 MERLIN, 15 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 5 COOPERS HAWKS, 1 NORTHERN GOSHAWK, 2 BALD EAGLES, 1 OSPREY, 4 SANDHILL CRANES, 200 BAND-TAILED PIGEONS, 15 VAUXS SWIFTS, several BLACK SWIFTS, 3 EVENING GROSBEAKS. A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. An adult FRANKLINS GULL was seen on the sand bar by the bridge at Esquimalt Lagoon. A WHITE-THROATED SPARROW was seen at the south end of the bridge at Blenkinsop Lake. 4 SANDHILL CRANES were seen off of Sahilton Rd in Duncan. Thurs Sept 23 2 BROAD-WINGED HAWKS and a WHITE-THROATED SPARROW were seen at Rocky Point Observatory. Also there 600 TURKEY VULTURES, 1 NORTHERN HARRIER, 6 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 1 COOPERS HAWK, 6 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 1 AMERICAN KESTREL, 1 PEREGRINE FALCON, 70 VAUXS SWIFTS, 180 BAND-TAILED PIGEONS. A reminder RPBO is on DND land access is restricted to volunteers of RPBO. Mon Sept 21 A BLACK-LEGGED KITTYWAKE was seen from Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon). Also there a RING-BILLED GULL. Sun Sept 20 A PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATER was seen off Tower Point. An AMERICAN BITTERN was seen at Swan Lake. Sat Sept 19 A SWAINSONS HAWK and a NORTHERN GOSHAWK were seen at Rocky Point Bird Observatory. A reminder that RPBO is on DND land and access is restricted. Fri Sept 18 A WILLET and a RED KNOT were seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Thurs Sept 17 RBA for a RED-SHOULDERED HAWK seen at Rocky Point Bird Observatory. This would be the first record for BC. Also there a BROAD-WINGED HAWK. A reminder, RPBO is on DND property, access is restricted. RBA for a BLACK-FOOTED ALBATROSS seen from Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon). This would be the fourth record for the VNHS Check List. A RED KNOT and a WILLET were seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Wed Sept 16 A RED KNOT and WILLET were seen on Mary Todd Island which is the island closest to the Oak Bay Marina. A WESTERN PALM WARBLER was seen along the Galloping Goose Trail between Brittany Dr. and Jacklin Rd. Several SANDHILL CRANES were heard over RPBO. A reminder RPBO is on DND land and access is restricted. Tues Sept 16 A RED KNOT and a WILLET were seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. An AMERICAN BITTERN , MERLIN and a NORTHERN HARRIER were seen at Swan Lake. Mon Sept 14 A SAINSONS HAWK was seen from the Beechey Head Lookout at East Sooke Park. Also there 2 PEREGRINE FALCONS, 2 MERLINS, 6 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 3 COOPERS HAWKS, 2 NORTHERN HARRIERS, 12 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 2 BALD EAGLES and 60 TURKEY VULTURES. Sun Sept 13 A RED-EYED VIREO was heard from the zig zag portion of the floating boardwalk at Swan Lake. A WESTERN KINGBIRD was seen at RPBO. A reminder that RPBO is on DND land and access is restricted. A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Thurs Sept 10 A NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH was seen by the switch back portion of the floating boardwalk at Swan Lake. A WILLET was seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Wed Sept 9 A Willet was seen again at the foot of Bowker Ave. in Oak Bay. Tues Sept 8 A NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH was seen from the switch back portion of floating boardwalk at Swan Lake. On Monday one was seen near Tues pond. A Willet was seen from the foot of Bowker in Oak Bay. A DUSKY FLYCATCHER was seen in Pemberton Park which is off of Gonzales Ave and Richardson St. Sat Sept 5 A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. A SOLITARY SANDPIPER and a PECTORAL SANDPIPER were seen at MacIntrye Reservoir. A PECTORAL SANDPIPER and a 3 SEMI-PALMATED PLOVERS were seen at Wittys Lagoon. Hundreds of SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 10 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS, 1 SHORT-TAILED SHEARWATER and 6 FORK-TAILED STORM-PETREL were seen from the MV COHO Thurs Sept 3 A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. A BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER was seen at Wiffin Spit. A SOLITARY SANDPIPER was seen at MacIntyre Reservoir. A BAIRDS SANDPIPER was seen at Saanichton Spit. A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen on the beach east of Ogden Point. Wed Sept 2 A BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER was seen at Wiffin Spit. 2 BAIRDS SANDPIPERS were see on Saanichton Spit on the east side. Tues Sept 1 A GREEN HERON was seen at Swan Lake Sun Aug 30 400 SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 4 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS, 1 SHORT-TAILED SHEARWATER, 1 NORTHERN FULMAR, 1 FORK-TAILED STORM-PETREL, 2 CASSINS AUCKLETS, 1 TUFTED PUFFIN were seen from the MV COHO ferry in Canadian Waters. 1 RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen with BLACK TURNSTONES on the beach east of Ogden Point near where the stairs go down to the water. Sat Aug 29 RBA for a BROWN BOOBY seen perched on the mast of a fishing boat, for about 4 hrs Sat afternoon from Otter Point to the Sooke Harbour, it then flew towards East Sooke Park. Pictures to posted soon. RBA for a BROWN BOOBY seen off Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon) 7:30 in the evening. A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen on the beach east of Ogden Point below Dallas Rd at Boyd St. 22 RED-NECKED PHALAROPES were seen off the Ogden Point Breakwater. A GREEN HERON was seen on the railing of the floating Boardwalk at Swan Lake. Fri Aug 28 A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen on the beach east of Ogden Point. A CASSINS AUCKLET was seen Clover Point, also there a PARASITIC JAEGER An AMERICAN GLODEN- PLOVER was seen at Albert Head Lagoon. 200 SOOTY SHEARWATERS were seen off Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon) Thurs Aug 27 A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen with BLACK TURNSTONES on the beach just east of the Ogden Point Breakwater. An AMERICAN GODEN-PLOVER was seen at Albert Head Lagoon. 50 SOOTY SHEARWATERS and 1 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATER were seen from Tower Point(Wittys Lagoon) A SNOW GOOSE was seen at Maber Flats Wed Aug 26 RBA for a MANX SHEARWATER and a SOUTH POLAR SKUA seen from Tower Point(Wittys Lagoon), also there 150 SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 2 NORTHERN FULMARS, 2 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS, 2 PARSITC JAEGERS. 90 SOOTY SHEARWATERS , 2 PARASITC JAEGERS and 1 POMARINE JAEGER were seen from Beechy Head in East Sooke Park. Mon Aug 24 A SORA was heard in the southeast part of Rithets Bog Sun Aug 23 RBA for 1 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATER, also 2 POMARINE JAEGERS, 1 PARASTIC JAEGER, 3 SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 6 NORTHERN FULMARS and 3 SEMIPALMATED PLOVERS were seen from Tower Point(Wittys Lagoon). Also a GOLDEN EAGLE was seen on the trip there. Fri Aug 21 Highlights of birds seen from the MV COHO on a VNHS Trip to Dungeness Spit: A PARASITIC JAEGER and several SOOTY SHEARWATERS were seen on the way out, a POMARINE JAEGER was seen on the way back, all in Canadian waters. Tues Aug 18 There were a small number of RED-NECKED PHALAROPES seen off of Clover Point. 24 COMMON NIGHTHAWKS were seen over the Juan de Fuca Rec Centre Monday Aug 17 2 BANK SWALLOWS were seen at Swan Lake 1 BLACK SWIFT was seen over Hector Rd. Sun Aug 16 Highlights of birds seen from the MV COHO on a VNHS Trip to Cape Flattery. 2 PARASITIC JAEGERS, NORTHERN FULMAR and several RED- NECKED PHALAROPES Sat Aug 15 RBA for a CLAY-COLOURED SPARROW seen where the jogging trail meets the main trail on the southwest side of Swan Lake 1 SOLITARY SANDPIPER AND 1 PECTORAL SANDPIPER were seen at Rithets Bog 6 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS were seen in a ditch along Lockside Trail south of Martindale Rd near the pig farm. Friday Aug 14 6 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS were see along Lockside Trail between Martindale Rd and Dooley Rd. 1 BLACK SWIFT was seen over Portage Inlet Thurs Aug 13 3 BLACK SWIFTS were seen over Sunnygrove Ter. Wed Aug 12 2 BAIRDS SANDPIPERS were seen at Wittys Lagoon also there 2 BLUE-WINGED TEAL. Tues.. Aug. 11 1 TUFTED PUFFIN, 2 BROWN PELICANS, 1 LONG-TAILED JAEGER, 1 CASSINS AUKLET, 5 RED-NECKED PHALAROPES, and 3 ANCIENT MURRELETS were seen off Tower Point. 3 WANDERING TATTLERS were seen between Holland Point and Ogden Point Thursday Aug 6 RBA for a HERMIT WARBLER seen at 4655 Kerryiew Dr, in the Prospect Lake area, birders are welcome, Sun Aug 1 A SOLITARY SANDPIPER was seen at McIntyre Reservoir , also there 9 LONG-BILLED DOWICHERS and 1 LESSER YELLOWLEGS among the 8 species of shorebirds seen. An AMERICAN BITTERN was across the lake from the lollipop boardwalk Sat Aug 1 An AMERICAN BITTERN was seen across the lake from the lollipop boardwalk A WANDERING TATTLER was seen from the Ogden point Breakwater Highlights of a VNHS walk to Esquimalt, Albert head, and Wittys Lagoon were 2 SEMIPALMATED PLOVERS, 4 LESSER YELLOWLEGS, 1 LONG-BILLED DOWICHER and 1 SHORT-BILLED DOWICHER at Wittys Lagoon. 10 species of shorebirds were seen. Thurs. July 30 2 WANDERING TATTLERS were seen off the Ogden Point Breakwater. Wed July 29 A BANK SWALLOW was seen over Swan Lake Tues July 28 RBA A GREEN-TAILED TOWHEE was seen at Tower Point(Whitty's Lagoon). If confirmed this would be the first record for the Victoria checklist. From the clearing go up the hill to the two picnic tables and the two garbage cans. Near by are two port-a-potties. The bird was frequenting this location near the picnic tables at the edge of the forest. Rick Schortinghuis Victoria BC Subject: RBA Victoria, BC Mon Nov 2 From: "Rick Schortinghuis" <shylo AT islandnet.com> Date: Mon, 2 Nov 2009 07:37:15 -0800 RBA * British Columbia * Greater Victoria and Southern Vancouver Is. * Nov 2, 2009 * BCVI090312 - Transcript This is the Victoria Natural History Society's Bird Alert for Mon Nov 2 7:00am update. Compiled and Transcribed by Rick Schortinghuis. Feature Birds SHORT-EARED OWL BARN OWL Sun Nov 1 A SHORT-EARED OWL was seen hunting off McHugh Rd in Central Saanich. Also a BARN OWL was heard hunting in Central Saanich. There were three RUDDY DUCKS on Swan Lake. Sat Oct 31 There were 8 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE seen along Martindale Rd. Wed Oct 28 A MARBLED GODWIT was seen for the second day from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay, along with seven other species for shorebirds including the WILLET. Tues Oct 27 A NORTHERN SHRIKE and a WHITE-THROATED SPARROW were seen at Swan Lake. WHITE-THROATED SPARROWS have been reported from several different locations around the lake this past week. Thurs Oct 22 A WILLET was seen on Mary Todd Island from the foot of Bowker Ave Tues Oct 20 RBA for a EMPORER GOOSE seen on the Victoria Golf Course. 5 BROWN PELICANS were seen on Race Rocks 5 BROWN PELICANS, SOTTY SHEARWATERS and a LEACHS STORM PETREL were from the MV COHO in Canadian waters A male RUSTY BLACKBIRD was seen at Galey Farm along the connector trail. An immature SNOW GOOSE was seen on the Victoria Golfcourse An immature SNOW GOOSE was seen off Lochside Dr just south of Lolbrunner. 7 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE were seen on the Lockside School grounds. 2 CACKING CANADA GEESE were seen in Martindale Sun Oct 18 2 SWAINSONS HAWKS were seen over Mt Douglas also there 2 AMERICAN KESTRELS. 4 TRUMPETER SWANS, the first of the fall season were seen over the Blenkinsop Valley. 20 EURASIAN COLLARED DOVES were seen off Wiffin Spit Rd. A PECTORAL SANDPIPER and a RUDDY TURNSTONE were seen at Wiffin Spit Sat Oct 17 7 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS were seen on the VNHS boat trip to Race Rocks, the other highlight was a pod of Dall Porpoises. Mon Oct 12 A juvenile PACIFIC GOLDEN- PLOVER was seen with BLACK-BELLIED PLOVERS on the east side of Saanichton Spit. A WILLET and a RED KNOT were seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. A juvenile GOLDEN EAGLE was seen over Swan Lake. Also there a SWAMP SPARROW, AMERICAN BITTERN, RUDDY DUCK and a REDHEAD. A LAPLAND LONGSPUR was seen south of the boat launch at Island View Beach. Sun Oct 11 A CANVASBACK, RUDDY DUCK, AMERICAN BITTERN and a REDHEAD were seen at Swan Lake. Sat Oct 10 At Kings Pond there was 1 AMERICAN TREE SPARROW seen on the east side, also 1 SWAMP SPARROW. At Swan Lake today there was: 1 RUSTY BLACKBIRD, 1 AMERICAN BITTERN, 1 RUDDY DUCK, 1 REDHEAD. There were 6 HORNED LARKS seen on Mt Douglas. Fri Oct 9 There were 7 HORNED LARKS on Mt Douglas Thurs Oct 8 There was 1 LAPLAND LONGSPUR seen on Christmas Hill. Wed Oct 7 There were 4 HORNED LARKS and 1 LAPLAND LONGSPUR seen on Christmas Hill. A WESTERN MEADOWLARK was seen at Island View Beach Mon Oct 5 There was RUSTY BLACKBIRD with BREWERS BLACKBIRDS at Swan Lake. There were three TOWNSENDS SOLITAIRS seen from the Mt Douglas lookout , also there 2 probable MOUNTAIN BLUEBIRDS, 2 SABINES GULLS and 16 ANCIENT MURRELETS were seen from Tower Point among 20,000 gulls. Sun Oct 4 A ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK was seen over Martindale Rd. There was a HORNED LARK and a TOWNSENDS SOLITAIR seen from the lookout on Mt Douglas. Sat Oct 3 2 MARBLED GODWITS were seen on the beach 500 metres north of Parker Park which is on Parker Ave. 3 SANDHILL CRANES were seen over the Blenkinsop Valley. 12 SOOTY SHEARWATERS and 1 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS were on a mini pelagic boat trip to Race Rocks, also seen a Humpback whale, A WILLET and a RED KNOT were seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. 178 SNOW GEESE were seen over Rocky Point Bird Observatory. Fri Oct 2 A TOWNSENDS SOLITAIR was seen at Saxe Point Park. A HORNED LARK was seen at Cattle Point. 3 SANDHILL CRANES were seen over Martindale Rd. 5 LAPLAND LONGSPURS were seen on CHRISTMAS HILL. Wed Sept 30 A juvenile ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK was seen at UVIC. Sun Sept 27 RBA for a COMMON GRACKLE seen from 3382 Sanderling Way in the Turnstone Development off Happy Valley Rd. Highlights from CRD Hawk Watch in East Sooke Park: 520 TURKEY VULTURES, 4 OSPREY, 2 NORTHERN HARRIERS, 16 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 1 COOPERS HAWK, 1 BROAD-WINGED HAWK, 45 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 1 GOLDEN EAGLE, 1 AMERICAN KESTREL, 1 PEREGRINE FALCON, 5 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE, 26 VAUXS SWIFTS. A HORNED LARK was seen on the floating Boardwalk at Swan Lake. 5 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE were seen with Canada GEESE in a field off Martindale Rd near Welch Rd 2 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS , 6 WESTERN SANDPIPERS, 1 LONG-BILLED DOWICHER and 1 GREATER YELLOW-LEGS were seen at MacIntyre Reservoir. 2 GREATER-WHITE-FRONTED GEESE, 1 LONG-BILLED DOWICHER and 1 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS were seen at Swan Lake. Sat Sept 26 Highlights from the Hawk Watch in East Sooke Park: 400 TURKEY VULTURES, 1 BROAD-WINGED HAWK, 25 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 2 PEREGRINE FALCONS, 1 MERLIN, 15 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 5 COOPERS HAWKS, 1 NORTHERN GOSHAWK, 2 BALD EAGLES, 1 OSPREY, 4 SANDHILL CRANES, 200 BAND-TAILED PIGEONS, 15 VAUXS SWIFTS, several BLACK SWIFTS, 3 EVENING GROSBEAKS. A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. An adult FRANKLINS GULL was seen on the sand bar by the bridge at Esquimalt Lagoon. A WHITE-THROATED SPARROW was seen at the south end of the bridge at Blenkinsop Lake. 4 SANDHILL CRANES were seen off of Sahilton Rd in Duncan. Thurs Sept 23 2 BROAD-WINGED HAWKS and a WHITE-THROATED SPARROW were seen at Rocky Point Observatory. Also there 600 TURKEY VULTURES, 1 NORTHERN HARRIER, 6 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 1 COOPERS HAWK, 6 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 1 AMERICAN KESTREL, 1 PEREGRINE FALCON, 70 VAUXS SWIFTS, 180 BAND-TAILED PIGEONS. A reminder RPBO is on DND land access is restricted to volunteers of RPBO. Mon Sept 21 A BLACK-LEGGED KITTYWAKE was seen from Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon). Also there a RING-BILLED GULL. Sun Sept 20 A PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATER was seen off Tower Point. An AMERICAN BITTERN was seen at Swan Lake. Sat Sept 19 A SWAINSONS HAWK and a NORTHERN GOSHAWK were seen at Rocky Point Bird Observatory. A reminder that RPBO is on DND land and access is restricted. Fri Sept 18 A WILLET and a RED KNOT were seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Thurs Sept 17 RBA for a RED-SHOULDERED HAWK seen at Rocky Point Bird Observatory. This would be the first record for BC. Also there a BROAD-WINGED HAWK. A reminder, RPBO is on DND property, access is restricted. RBA for a BLACK-FOOTED ALBATROSS seen from Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon). This would be the fourth record for the VNHS Check List. A RED KNOT and a WILLET were seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Wed Sept 16 A RED KNOT and WILLET were seen on Mary Todd Island which is the island closest to the Oak Bay Marina. A WESTERN PALM WARBLER was seen along the Galloping Goose Trail between Brittany Dr. and Jacklin Rd. Several SANDHILL CRANES were heard over RPBO. A reminder RPBO is on DND land and access is restricted. Tues Sept 16 A RED KNOT and a WILLET were seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. An AMERICAN BITTERN , MERLIN and a NORTHERN HARRIER were seen at Swan Lake. Mon Sept 14 A SAINSONS HAWK was seen from the Beechey Head Lookout at East Sooke Park. Also there 2 PEREGRINE FALCONS, 2 MERLINS, 6 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 3 COOPERS HAWKS, 2 NORTHERN HARRIERS, 12 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 2 BALD EAGLES and 60 TURKEY VULTURES. Sun Sept 13 A RED-EYED VIREO was heard from the zig zag portion of the floating boardwalk at Swan Lake. A WESTERN KINGBIRD was seen at RPBO. A reminder that RPBO is on DND land and access is restricted. A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Thurs Sept 10 A NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH was seen by the switch back portion of the floating boardwalk at Swan Lake. A WILLET was seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Wed Sept 9 A Willet was seen again at the foot of Bowker Ave. in Oak Bay. Tues Sept 8 A NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH was seen from the switch back portion of floating boardwalk at Swan Lake. On Monday one was seen near Tues pond. A Willet was seen from the foot of Bowker in Oak Bay. A DUSKY FLYCATCHER was seen in Pemberton Park which is off of Gonzales Ave and Richardson St. Sat Sept 5 A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. A SOLITARY SANDPIPER and a PECTORAL SANDPIPER were seen at MacIntrye Reservoir. A PECTORAL SANDPIPER and a 3 SEMI-PALMATED PLOVERS were seen at Wittys Lagoon. Hundreds of SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 10 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS, 1 SHORT-TAILED SHEARWATER and 6 FORK-TAILED STORM-PETREL were seen from the MV COHO Thurs Sept 3 A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. A BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER was seen at Wiffin Spit. A SOLITARY SANDPIPER was seen at MacIntyre Reservoir. A BAIRDS SANDPIPER was seen at Saanichton Spit. A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen on the beach east of Ogden Point. Wed Sept 2 A BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER was seen at Wiffin Spit. 2 BAIRDS SANDPIPERS were see on Saanichton Spit on the east side. Tues Sept 1 A GREEN HERON was seen at Swan Lake Sun Aug 30 400 SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 4 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS, 1 SHORT-TAILED SHEARWATER, 1 NORTHERN FULMAR, 1 FORK-TAILED STORM-PETREL, 2 CASSINS AUCKLETS, 1 TUFTED PUFFIN were seen from the MV COHO ferry in Canadian Waters. 1 RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen with BLACK TURNSTONES on the beach east of Ogden Point near where the stairs go down to the water. Sat Aug 29 RBA for a BROWN BOOBY seen perched on the mast of a fishing boat, for about 4 hrs Sat afternoon from Otter Point to the Sooke Harbour, it then flew towards East Sooke Park. Pictures to posted soon. RBA for a BROWN BOOBY seen off Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon) 7:30 in the evening. A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen on the beach east of Ogden Point below Dallas Rd at Boyd St. 22 RED-NECKED PHALAROPES were seen off the Ogden Point Breakwater. A GREEN HERON was seen on the railing of the floating Boardwalk at Swan Lake. Fri Aug 28 A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen on the beach east of Ogden Point. A CASSINS AUCKLET was seen Clover Point, also there a PARASITIC JAEGER An AMERICAN GLODEN- PLOVER was seen at Albert Head Lagoon. 200 SOOTY SHEARWATERS were seen off Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon) Thurs Aug 27 A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen with BLACK TURNSTONES on the beach just east of the Ogden Point Breakwater. An AMERICAN GODEN-PLOVER was seen at Albert Head Lagoon. 50 SOOTY SHEARWATERS and 1 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATER were seen from Tower Point(Wittys Lagoon) A SNOW GOOSE was seen at Maber Flats Wed Aug 26 RBA for a MANX SHEARWATER and a SOUTH POLAR SKUA seen from Tower Point(Wittys Lagoon), also there 150 SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 2 NORTHERN FULMARS, 2 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS, 2 PARSITC JAEGERS. 90 SOOTY SHEARWATERS , 2 PARASITC JAEGERS and 1 POMARINE JAEGER were seen from Beechy Head in East Sooke Park. Mon Aug 24 A SORA was heard in the southeast part of Rithets Bog Sun Aug 23 RBA for 1 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATER, also 2 POMARINE JAEGERS, 1 PARASTIC JAEGER, 3 SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 6 NORTHERN FULMARS and 3 SEMIPALMATED PLOVERS were seen from Tower Point(Wittys Lagoon). Also a GOLDEN EAGLE was seen on the trip there. Fri Aug 21 Highlights of birds seen from the MV COHO on a VNHS Trip to Dungeness Spit: A PARASITIC JAEGER and several SOOTY SHEARWATERS were seen on the way out, a POMARINE JAEGER was seen on the way back, all in Canadian waters. Tues Aug 18 There were a small number of RED-NECKED PHALAROPES seen off of Clover Point. 24 COMMON NIGHTHAWKS were seen over the Juan de Fuca Rec Centre Monday Aug 17 2 BANK SWALLOWS were seen at Swan Lake 1 BLACK SWIFT was seen over Hector Rd. Sun Aug 16 Highlights of birds seen from the MV COHO on a VNHS Trip to Cape Flattery. 2 PARASITIC JAEGERS, NORTHERN FULMAR and several RED- NECKED PHALAROPES Sat Aug 15 RBA for a CLAY-COLOURED SPARROW seen where the jogging trail meets the main trail on the southwest side of Swan Lake 1 SOLITARY SANDPIPER AND 1 PECTORAL SANDPIPER were seen at Rithets Bog 6 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS were seen in a ditch along Lockside Trail south of Martindale Rd near the pig farm. Friday Aug 14 6 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS were see along Lockside Trail between Martindale Rd and Dooley Rd. 1 BLACK SWIFT was seen over Portage Inlet Thurs Aug 13 3 BLACK SWIFTS were seen over Sunnygrove Ter. Wed Aug 12 2 BAIRDS SANDPIPERS were seen at Wittys Lagoon also there 2 BLUE-WINGED TEAL. Tues.. Aug. 11 1 TUFTED PUFFIN, 2 BROWN PELICANS, 1 LONG-TAILED JAEGER, 1 CASSINS AUKLET, 5 RED-NECKED PHALAROPES, and 3 ANCIENT MURRELETS were seen off Tower Point. 3 WANDERING TATTLERS were seen between Holland Point and Ogden Point Thursday Aug 6 RBA for a HERMIT WARBLER seen at 4655 Kerryiew Dr, in the Prospect Lake area, birders are welcome, Sun Aug 1 A SOLITARY SANDPIPER was seen at McIntyre Reservoir , also there 9 LONG-BILLED DOWICHERS and 1 LESSER YELLOWLEGS among the 8 species of shorebirds seen. An AMERICAN BITTERN was across the lake from the lollipop boardwalk Sat Aug 1 An AMERICAN BITTERN was seen across the lake from the lollipop boardwalk A WANDERING TATTLER was seen from the Ogden point Breakwater Highlights of a VNHS walk to Esquimalt, Albert head, and Wittys Lagoon were 2 SEMIPALMATED PLOVERS, 4 LESSER YELLOWLEGS, 1 LONG-BILLED DOWICHER and 1 SHORT-BILLED DOWICHER at Wittys Lagoon. 10 species of shorebirds were seen. Thurs. July 30 2 WANDERING TATTLERS were seen off the Ogden Point Breakwater. Wed July 29 A BANK SWALLOW was seen over Swan Lake Tues July 28 RBA A GREEN-TAILED TOWHEE was seen at Tower Point(Whitty's Lagoon). If confirmed this would be the first record for the Victoria checklist. From the clearing go up the hill to the two picnic tables and the two garbage cans. Near by are two port-a-potties. The bird was frequenting this location near the picnic tables at the edge of the forest. Rick Schortinghuis Victoria BC Subject: Northern Pygmy-Owl From: "backyard_store" <backyard_store AT yahoo.com> Date: Mon, 02 Nov 2009 00:27:28 -0000 Hi birders, We just had a report of a Northern Pygmy-Owl seen in a backyard along Gary Oak Drive in Nanoose Bay. Good birding Neil Robins nanaimo british Columbia Subject: Nanaimo,Vancouver Island, bird alert--November 01, 2009, From: "backyard_store" <backyard_store AT yahoo.com> Date: Sun, 01 Nov 2009 22:20:46 -0000 Nanaimo bird alert To report your sightings phone the Store at 250-390-3669 e-mail us at thebackyard AT shaw.ca call the Bird Alert at 250-390-3029 Also check the birdstore blog for the latest bird alerts and updates: www.thebirdstore.blogspot.com Post your sightings on this site: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/bcbirdingvanisland/messages Birds of British Columbia: http://www.geog.ubc.ca/biodiversity/efauna/SpeciesChecklists.html International Birdwatching Guides http://www.guidedbirdwatching.com Birdwatching contacts and information find a local birder to go birdwatching with: http://www.birdingpal.org/ Please remember, when reporting a sighting, to leave your name and phone number, along with the date, name and location of your sighting. Sunday November 01, 2009: The Sunday Bird Walk went to the Nanoose Estuary in at Nanoose Bay. The morning was sunny and calm until the near the end of the walk, when it turned quite windy. We saw three different Red-tailed Hawks--one was perched in a large bush near the church camp, one was perched in the tall perching snag above a Great Blue Heron and the third Hawk was up high above the tree line being harassed by two Common Ravens. A Merlin flew in above us and circled around and then headed west and disappeared. We observed a Cooper's Hawk circling above the trees, moving higher and higher into the sky. Three Dunlin were resting on the shoreline of the incoming tide. We spotted an Eurasian Wigeon among a flock of American Wigeon. Fifteen birders heard and saw the following forty species of birds: Canada Goose, Mallard, American Wigeon, Eurasian Wigeon, Bufflehead, Common Goldeneye, Northern Pintail, Green-winged Teal, Surf Scoter, White-winged Scoter, Common Merganser Common Loon, Pacific Loon, Horned Grebe, Red-necked Grebe, Double-crested Cormorant, Pelagic Cormorant, Great Blue Heron, Bald Eagle, Red-tailed Hawk, Merlin, Cooper's Hawk, Dunlin, Mew Gull, California Gull, Thayer's Gull, Glaucous-winged Gull, American Robin, Belted Kingfisher, Northern Flicker, Northwestern Crow, Common Raven, European Starling, Song Sparrow, Golden-crowned Sparrow, Song Sparrow, Spotted Towhee, House Finch, Dark-eyed Junco and Purple Finch. Saturday October 31: A Northern Shrike and three Short-eared Owls were seen at the Nanaimo River Estuary in south Nanaimo. An Anna's Hummingbird was seen feeding from garden fuchsia in the 2500 Block of Glenayr Drive in Nanaimo. Friday October 30: Two Wilson's Snipe, one Long-billed Dowitcher, two Eurasian Wigeon and an American/Eurasian Hybrid Wigeon were seen at Holden Creek side of the Nanaimo River Estuary in south Nanaimo. Thursday October 29: A large flock of American Wigeon, Black-bellied Plovers, Killdeer, Black Turnstone and a flock of Dunlin were seen at the Parksville Bay at low tide. Eurasian Wigeon, American Wigeon, Mallard, Northern Pintail, Green-winged Teal, Harlequin Duck, Surf Scoter, Bufflehead, Common Merganser, Pacific Loon, Common Loon, Horned Grebe, Red-necked Grebe, Brandt's Cormorant, Double-crested Cormorant, Pelagic Cormorant, Bald Eagle, Mew Gull, California Gull, Herring Gull, Thayer's Gull, Western Gull, Glaucous-winged Gull, Northern Flicker, Northwestern Crow, Common Raven, Chestnut-backed Chickadee, Bushtit and Golden-crowned Kinglets were seen on the Plummer Road side of the Englishman River Estuary in Parksville. Canada Geese and one Cackling Goose, American Coots, Mallards, Ring-necked Ducks, Greater Scaup and a Hooded Merganser were seen at Craig Bay in Parksville. Tuesday October 27: The Tuesday Bird Walk went to Rathtrevor Provincial Park in Parksville. The morning was partly cloudy with strong winds making the Strait of Georgia very choppy. The highlights of the morning included seeing a flock of Dunlin along the tide line. White-winged, Surf and Back Scoters, Pacific and Common Loons, Pigeon Guillemot and Common Mergansers were further offshore. Inland, near the marsh we came across a large mixed flock of songbirds including Chestnut-backed Chickadees, Bushtits, Red-breasted Nuthatch, a Brown Creeper, Winter Wren, Golden-crowned Kinglets, Ruby-crowned Kinglets, a Hutton's Vireo, Varied Thrush and a Townsend's Warbler. Twenty-one birders saw and heard the following forty-four species of birds: American Wigeon, Mallard, Northern Pintail, Greater Scaup, Surf Scoter, White-winged Scoter, Black Scoter, Common Merganser, Pacific Loon, Common Loon, Horned Grebe, Red-necked Grebe, Double-crested Cormorant, Pelagic Cormorant, Great Blue Heron, Bald Eagle, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Dunlin, Mew Gull, California Gull, Glaucous-winged Gull, Pigeon Guillemot, Downy Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Hutton's Vireo, Northwestern Crow, Common Raven, Chestnut-backed Chickadee, Bushtit, Red-breasted Nuthatch, Brown Creeper, Bewick's Wren, Winter Wren, Golden-crowned Kinglet, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, American Robin, Varied Thrush, Townsend's Warbler, Spotted Towhee, Song Sparrow, Dark-eyed Junco, House Finch, Red Crossbill and American Goldfinch. Fifteen Long-billed Dowitchers were seen at Holden Creek in south Nanaimo. A flock of eleven Trumpeter Swans and one juvenile Northern Harrier were seen at the Nanaimo River Estuary, Raines Road side. For further information on these sightings or for help in identifying a bird please call The Backyard Wildbird and Nature Store AT 250-390-3669 Toll Free AT 1-888-249-4145 e-mail: thebackyard AT shaw.ca ********************************** The Nanoose Naturalists Guest Speaker Entemologist Evelyn Stokkink will talk about the life of the Ambrosia Beetle. Thursday November 12, 2009 AT 7:00 pm Nanoose Library, Nanoose Bay ********************************** Arrowsmith Naturalists Monday November 23, 2009 AT 7:30 pm. Springwood School Parksville ********************************** Everyone is welcome to join us for a 2-3 hour bird walk on the Sunday and Tuesday mornings. We leave from the Store at 9 A.M. Sunday Mornings and go to a different location in and around Nanaimo and from the Parksville Beach Community Park at 9 A.M. on Tuesdays and go to different areas in and around the Oceanside area. ************************************************************** The Tuesday Bird Walk on November 03, 2009 will be going to the Little Qualicum River Estuary in Qualicum Beach. Meet at the Parksville Beach Community Park near the parking area at the Lion's Playground at 9:00 A.M. or at the Viewing Platform on Highway 19A and Garrett Road in Qualicum Beach at about 9:15 A.M. ***************************************************** The Sunday Bird Walk on November 08 will be going to the Little Qualicum River Estuary in Qualicum Beach. Meet at the Birdstore at 9:00 A.M. or at the Viewing Platform on Highway 19A and Garrett Road in Qualicum Beach at about 9:30A.M. ******************************************************* Good birding Neil Robins THE BACKYARD Wildbird & Nature Store 6314 Metral Drive, Nanaimo, BC V9T 2L8 250.390.3669 250.390.1633 fax thebackyard AT shaw.ca CHECK OUT OUR BLOG---> www.thebirdstore.blogspot.com Subject: Sunday bird walk, Nanaimo, Vancouver Island, November 01, 2009 From: "backyard_store" <backyard_store AT yahoo.com> Date: Sun, 01 Nov 2009 21:39:18 -0000 Hi birders, The Sunday Bird Walk went to the Nanoose Estuary in at Nanoose Bay. The morning was sunny and calm until the near the end of the walk, when it turned quite windy. We saw three different Red-tailed Hawks--one was perched in a large bush near the church camp, one was perched in the tall perching snag above a Great Blue Heron and the third Hawk was up high above the tree line being harassed by two Common Ravens. A Merlin flew in above us and circled around and then headed west and disappeared. We observed a Cooper's Hawk circling above the trees, moving higher and higher into the sky. Three Dunlin were resting on the shoreline of the incoming tide. We spotted an Eurasian Wigeon among a flock of American Wigeon. Fifteen birders heard and saw the following forty species of birds: Canada Goose, Mallard, American Wigeon, Eurasian Wigeon, Bufflehead, Common Goldeneye, Northern Pintail, Green-winged Teal, Surf Scoter, White-winged Scoter, Common Merganser Common Loon, Pacific Loon, Horned Grebe, Red-necked Grebe, Double-crested Cormorant, Pelagic Cormorant, Great Blue Heron, Bald Eagle, Red-tailed Hawk, Merlin, Cooper's Hawk, Dunlin, Mew Gull, California Gull, Thayer's Gull, Glaucous-winged Gull, American Robin, Belted Kingfisher, Northern Flicker, Northwestern Crow, Common Raven, European Starling, Song Sparrow, Golden-crowned Sparrow, Song Sparrow, Spotted Towhee, House Finch, Dark-eyed Junco and Purple Finch. Good birding! Neil Robins Nanaimo British Columbia Subject: More Eurasian wigeon From: "joncbirder" <jon.carter AT fsmail.net> Date: Fri, 30 Oct 2009 22:16:54 -0000 At least 2 drake Eurasian wigeon with American wigeon flock at Holden Creek this morning. A hybrid wigeon was also present. 2 Wilson's snipe and just 1 long-billed dowitcher there too. http://britbirderinbc.blogspot.com Subject: Eurasian Wigeon, Cackling Goose and American Coots From: "canadianrobin2003" <nmrobins AT telus.net> Date: Fri, 30 Oct 2009 00:02:17 -0000 Hi birders, I was out birding with John Purves today we went to Parksville Beach were we saw a large flock of American Wigeon, Black-bellied Plovers, Killdeer, Black Turnstone and a flock of Dunlin. At the Englishman River Estuary on the flooded mudflats we saw three Eurasian Wigeons, large flocks of American Wigeon, Mallard, Green-winged Teal and Northern Pintail. At Craig Bay we saw Canada Goose and one Cackling Goose near the water. On the ponds we saw American Coots, Mallards, Ring-necked Ducks, Greater Scaup. We saw the following thirty-nine species of birds: Canada Goose Cackling Goose Eurasian Wigeon American Wigeon Mallard Northern Pintail Green-winged Teal Ring-necked Duck Greater Scaup Harlequin Duck Surf Scoter Bufflehead Hooded Merganser Common Merganser Pacific Loon Common Loon Horned Grebe Red-necked Grebe Brandt's Cormorant Double-crested Cormorant Pelagic Cormorant Bald Eagle American Coot Black-bellied Plover Killdeer Black Turnstone Dunlin Mew Gull California Gull Herring Gull Thayer's Gull Western Gull Glaucous-winged Gull Northern Flicker Northwestern Crow Common Raven Chestnut-backed Chickadee Bushtit Golden-crowned Kinglet Good birding Neil Robins Parksville British Colummbia Subject: Re: Holden Creek/Nanaimo River From: "Peter" <cliffhanger AT fsmail.net> Date: Thu, 29 Oct 2009 18:47:06 -0000 Hi Jon Welcome to the Island from a fellow ex Brit birder. Pete Boon Nanaimo (since 2007) --- In bcbirdingvanisland AT yahoogroups.com, "joncbirder" wrote: > > 15 long-billed dowitcher at Holden Creek Tues. morning. > > Flock of 9 trumpeter swans south east, 1 west & 1 on river at end of Raines Rd. > Also 1 juv northern harrier over the saltmarsh. > > Further details and sightings at: > http://britbirderinbc.blogspot.com > > Jon > Subject: RBA Victoria, BC Thurs Oct 29 2009 From: "Rick Schortinghuis" <shylo AT islandnet.com> Date: Thu, 29 Oct 2009 07:05:53 -0700 RBA * British Columbia * Greater Victoria and Southern Vancouver Is. * Oct 29, 2009 * BCVI090312 - Transcript This is the Victoria Natural History Society's Bird Alert for Thurs Oct 29 7:00am update. Compiled and Transcribed by Rick Schortinghuis. Feature Birds MARBLED GODWIT Wed Oct 28 A MARBLED GODWIT was seen for the second day from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay, along with seven other species for shorebirds including the WILLET. Tues Oct 27 A NORTHERN SHRIKE and a WHITE-THROATED SPARROW were seen at Swan Lake. WHITE-THROATED SPARROWS have been reported from several different locations around the lake this past week. Thurs Oct 22 A WILLET was seen on Mary Todd Island from the foot of Bowker Ave Tues Oct 20 RBA for a EMPORER GOOSE seen on the Victoria Golf Course. 5 BROWN PELICANS were seen on Race Rocks 5 BROWN PELICANS, SOTTY SHEARWATERS and a LEACHS STORM PETREL were from the MV COHO in Canadian waters A male RUSTY BLACKBIRD was seen at Galey Farm along the connector trail. An immature SNOW GOOSE was seen on the Victoria Golfcourse An immature SNOW GOOSE was seen off Lochside Dr just south of Lolbrunner. 7 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE were seen on the Lockside School grounds. 2 CACKING CANADA GEESE were seen in Martindale Sun Oct 18 2 SWAINSONS HAWKS were seen over Mt Douglas also there 2 AMERICAN KESTRELS. 4 TRUMPETER SWANS, the first of the fall season were seen over the Blenkinsop Valley. 20 EURASIAN COLLARED DOVES were seen off Wiffin Spit Rd. A PECTORAL SANDPIPER and a RUDDY TURNSTONE were seen at Wiffin Spit Sat Oct 17 7 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS were seen on the VNHS boat trip to Race Rocks, the other highlight was a pod of Dall Porpoises. Mon Oct 12 A juvenile PACIFIC GOLDEN- PLOVER was seen with BLACK-BELLIED PLOVERS on the east side of Saanichton Spit. A WILLET and a RED KNOT were seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. A juvenile GOLDEN EAGLE was seen over Swan Lake. Also there a SWAMP SPARROW, AMERICAN BITTERN, RUDDY DUCK and a REDHEAD. A LAPLAND LONGSPUR was seen south of the boat launch at Island View Beach. Sun Oct 11 A CANVASBACK, RUDDY DUCK, AMERICAN BITTERN and a REDHEAD were seen at Swan Lake. Sat Oct 10 At Kings Pond there was 1 AMERICAN TREE SPARROW seen on the east side, also 1 SWAMP SPARROW. At Swan Lake today there was: 1 RUSTY BLACKBIRD, 1 AMERICAN BITTERN, 1 RUDDY DUCK, 1 REDHEAD. There were 6 HORNED LARKS seen on Mt Douglas. Fri Oct 9 There were 7 HORNED LARKS on Mt Douglas Thurs Oct 8 There was 1 LAPLAND LONGSPUR seen on Christmas Hill. Wed Oct 7 There were 4 HORNED LARKS and 1 LAPLAND LONGSPUR seen on Christmas Hill. A WESTERN MEADOWLARK was seen at Island View Beach Mon Oct 5 There was RUSTY BLACKBIRD with BREWERS BLACKBIRDS at Swan Lake. There were three TOWNSENDS SOLITAIRS seen from the Mt Douglas lookout , also there 2 probable MOUNTAIN BLUEBIRDS, 2 SABINES GULLS and 16 ANCIENT MURRELETS were seen from Tower Point among 20,000 gulls. Sun Oct 4 A ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK was seen over Martindale Rd. There was a HORNED LARK and a TOWNSENDS SOLITAIR seen from the lookout on Mt Douglas. Sat Oct 3 2 MARBLED GODWITS were seen on the beach 500 metres north of Parker Park which is on Parker Ave. 3 SANDHILL CRANES were seen over the Blenkinsop Valley. 12 SOOTY SHEARWATERS and 1 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS were on a mini pelagic boat trip to Race Rocks, also seen a Humpback whale, A WILLET and a RED KNOT were seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. 178 SNOW GEESE were seen over Rocky Point Bird Observatory. Fri Oct 2 A TOWNSENDS SOLITAIR was seen at Saxe Point Park. A HORNED LARK was seen at Cattle Point. 3 SANDHILL CRANES were seen over Martindale Rd. 5 LAPLAND LONGSPURS were seen on CHRISTMAS HILL. Wed Sept 30 A juvenile ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK was seen at UVIC. Sun Sept 27 RBA for a COMMON GRACKLE seen from 3382 Sanderling Way in the Turnstone Development off Happy Valley Rd. Highlights from CRD Hawk Watch in East Sooke Park: 520 TURKEY VULTURES, 4 OSPREY, 2 NORTHERN HARRIERS, 16 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 1 COOPERS HAWK, 1 BROAD-WINGED HAWK, 45 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 1 GOLDEN EAGLE, 1 AMERICAN KESTREL, 1 PEREGRINE FALCON, 5 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE, 26 VAUXS SWIFTS. A HORNED LARK was seen on the floating Boardwalk at Swan Lake. 5 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE were seen with Canada GEESE in a field off Martindale Rd near Welch Rd 2 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS , 6 WESTERN SANDPIPERS, 1 LONG-BILLED DOWICHER and 1 GREATER YELLOW-LEGS were seen at MacIntyre Reservoir. 2 GREATER-WHITE-FRONTED GEESE, 1 LONG-BILLED DOWICHER and 1 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS were seen at Swan Lake. Sat Sept 26 Highlights from the Hawk Watch in East Sooke Park: 400 TURKEY VULTURES, 1 BROAD-WINGED HAWK, 25 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 2 PEREGRINE FALCONS, 1 MERLIN, 15 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 5 COOPERS HAWKS, 1 NORTHERN GOSHAWK, 2 BALD EAGLES, 1 OSPREY, 4 SANDHILL CRANES, 200 BAND-TAILED PIGEONS, 15 VAUXS SWIFTS, several BLACK SWIFTS, 3 EVENING GROSBEAKS. A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. An adult FRANKLINS GULL was seen on the sand bar by the bridge at Esquimalt Lagoon. A WHITE-THROATED SPARROW was seen at the south end of the bridge at Blenkinsop Lake. 4 SANDHILL CRANES were seen off of Sahilton Rd in Duncan. Thurs Sept 23 2 BROAD-WINGED HAWKS and a WHITE-THROATED SPARROW were seen at Rocky Point Observatory. Also there 600 TURKEY VULTURES, 1 NORTHERN HARRIER, 6 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 1 COOPERS HAWK, 6 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 1 AMERICAN KESTREL, 1 PEREGRINE FALCON, 70 VAUXS SWIFTS, 180 BAND-TAILED PIGEONS. A reminder RPBO is on DND land access is restricted to volunteers of RPBO. Mon Sept 21 A BLACK-LEGGED KITTYWAKE was seen from Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon). Also there a RING-BILLED GULL. Sun Sept 20 A PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATER was seen off Tower Point. An AMERICAN BITTERN was seen at Swan Lake. Sat Sept 19 A SWAINSONS HAWK and a NORTHERN GOSHAWK were seen at Rocky Point Bird Observatory. A reminder that RPBO is on DND land and access is restricted. Fri Sept 18 A WILLET and a RED KNOT were seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Thurs Sept 17 RBA for a RED-SHOULDERED HAWK seen at Rocky Point Bird Observatory. This would be the first record for BC. Also there a BROAD-WINGED HAWK. A reminder, RPBO is on DND property, access is restricted. RBA for a BLACK-FOOTED ALBATROSS seen from Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon). This would be the fourth record for the VNHS Check List. A RED KNOT and a WILLET were seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Wed Sept 16 A RED KNOT and WILLET were seen on Mary Todd Island which is the island closest to the Oak Bay Marina. A WESTERN PALM WARBLER was seen along the Galloping Goose Trail between Brittany Dr. and Jacklin Rd. Several SANDHILL CRANES were heard over RPBO. A reminder RPBO is on DND land and access is restricted. Tues Sept 16 A RED KNOT and a WILLET were seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. An AMERICAN BITTERN , MERLIN and a NORTHERN HARRIER were seen at Swan Lake. Mon Sept 14 A SAINSONS HAWK was seen from the Beechey Head Lookout at East Sooke Park. Also there 2 PEREGRINE FALCONS, 2 MERLINS, 6 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 3 COOPERS HAWKS, 2 NORTHERN HARRIERS, 12 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 2 BALD EAGLES and 60 TURKEY VULTURES. Sun Sept 13 A RED-EYED VIREO was heard from the zig zag portion of the floating boardwalk at Swan Lake. A WESTERN KINGBIRD was seen at RPBO. A reminder that RPBO is on DND land and access is restricted. A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Thurs Sept 10 A NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH was seen by the switch back portion of the floating boardwalk at Swan Lake. A WILLET was seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Wed Sept 9 A Willet was seen again at the foot of Bowker Ave. in Oak Bay. Tues Sept 8 A NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH was seen from the switch back portion of floating boardwalk at Swan Lake. On Monday one was seen near Tues pond. A Willet was seen from the foot of Bowker in Oak Bay. A DUSKY FLYCATCHER was seen in Pemberton Park which is off of Gonzales Ave and Richardson St. Sat Sept 5 A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. A SOLITARY SANDPIPER and a PECTORAL SANDPIPER were seen at MacIntrye Reservoir. A PECTORAL SANDPIPER and a 3 SEMI-PALMATED PLOVERS were seen at Wittys Lagoon. Hundreds of SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 10 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS, 1 SHORT-TAILED SHEARWATER and 6 FORK-TAILED STORM-PETREL were seen from the MV COHO Thurs Sept 3 A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. A BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER was seen at Wiffin Spit. A SOLITARY SANDPIPER was seen at MacIntyre Reservoir. A BAIRDS SANDPIPER was seen at Saanichton Spit. A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen on the beach east of Ogden Point. Wed Sept 2 A BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER was seen at Wiffin Spit. 2 BAIRDS SANDPIPERS were see on Saanichton Spit on the east side. Tues Sept 1 A GREEN HERON was seen at Swan Lake Sun Aug 30 400 SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 4 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS, 1 SHORT-TAILED SHEARWATER, 1 NORTHERN FULMAR, 1 FORK-TAILED STORM-PETREL, 2 CASSINS AUCKLETS, 1 TUFTED PUFFIN were seen from the MV COHO ferry in Canadian Waters. 1 RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen with BLACK TURNSTONES on the beach east of Ogden Point near where the stairs go down to the water. Sat Aug 29 RBA for a BROWN BOOBY seen perched on the mast of a fishing boat, for about 4 hrs Sat afternoon from Otter Point to the Sooke Harbour, it then flew towards East Sooke Park. Pictures to posted soon. RBA for a BROWN BOOBY seen off Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon) 7:30 in the evening. A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen on the beach east of Ogden Point below Dallas Rd at Boyd St. 22 RED-NECKED PHALAROPES were seen off the Ogden Point Breakwater. A GREEN HERON was seen on the railing of the floating Boardwalk at Swan Lake. Fri Aug 28 A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen on the beach east of Ogden Point. A CASSINS AUCKLET was seen Clover Point, also there a PARASITIC JAEGER An AMERICAN GLODEN- PLOVER was seen at Albert Head Lagoon. 200 SOOTY SHEARWATERS were seen off Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon) Thurs Aug 27 A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen with BLACK TURNSTONES on the beach just east of the Ogden Point Breakwater. An AMERICAN GODEN-PLOVER was seen at Albert Head Lagoon. 50 SOOTY SHEARWATERS and 1 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATER were seen from Tower Point(Wittys Lagoon) A SNOW GOOSE was seen at Maber Flats Wed Aug 26 RBA for a MANX SHEARWATER and a SOUTH POLAR SKUA seen from Tower Point(Wittys Lagoon), also there 150 SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 2 NORTHERN FULMARS, 2 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS, 2 PARSITC JAEGERS. 90 SOOTY SHEARWATERS , 2 PARASITC JAEGERS and 1 POMARINE JAEGER were seen from Beechy Head in East Sooke Park. Mon Aug 24 A SORA was heard in the southeast part of Rithets Bog Sun Aug 23 RBA for 1 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATER, also 2 POMARINE JAEGERS, 1 PARASTIC JAEGER, 3 SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 6 NORTHERN FULMARS and 3 SEMIPALMATED PLOVERS were seen from Tower Point(Wittys Lagoon). Also a GOLDEN EAGLE was seen on the trip there. Fri Aug 21 Highlights of birds seen from the MV COHO on a VNHS Trip to Dungeness Spit: A PARASITIC JAEGER and several SOOTY SHEARWATERS were seen on the way out, a POMARINE JAEGER was seen on the way back, all in Canadian waters. Tues Aug 18 There were a small number of RED-NECKED PHALAROPES seen off of Clover Point. 24 COMMON NIGHTHAWKS were seen over the Juan de Fuca Rec Centre Monday Aug 17 2 BANK SWALLOWS were seen at Swan Lake 1 BLACK SWIFT was seen over Hector Rd. Sun Aug 16 Highlights of birds seen from the MV COHO on a VNHS Trip to Cape Flattery. 2 PARASITIC JAEGERS, NORTHERN FULMAR and several RED- NECKED PHALAROPES Sat Aug 15 RBA for a CLAY-COLOURED SPARROW seen where the jogging trail meets the main trail on the southwest side of Swan Lake 1 SOLITARY SANDPIPER AND 1 PECTORAL SANDPIPER were seen at Rithets Bog 6 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS were seen in a ditch along Lockside Trail south of Martindale Rd near the pig farm. Friday Aug 14 6 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS were see along Lockside Trail between Martindale Rd and Dooley Rd. 1 BLACK SWIFT was seen over Portage Inlet Thurs Aug 13 3 BLACK SWIFTS were seen over Sunnygrove Ter. Wed Aug 12 2 BAIRDS SANDPIPERS were seen at Wittys Lagoon also there 2 BLUE-WINGED TEAL. Tues.. Aug. 11 1 TUFTED PUFFIN, 2 BROWN PELICANS, 1 LONG-TAILED JAEGER, 1 CASSINS AUKLET, 5 RED-NECKED PHALAROPES, and 3 ANCIENT MURRELETS were seen off Tower Point. 3 WANDERING TATTLERS were seen between Holland Point and Ogden Point Thursday Aug 6 RBA for a HERMIT WARBLER seen at 4655 Kerryiew Dr, in the Prospect Lake area, birders are welcome, Sun Aug 1 A SOLITARY SANDPIPER was seen at McIntyre Reservoir , also there 9 LONG-BILLED DOWICHERS and 1 LESSER YELLOWLEGS among the 8 species of shorebirds seen. An AMERICAN BITTERN was across the lake from the lollipop boardwalk Sat Aug 1 An AMERICAN BITTERN was seen across the lake from the lollipop boardwalk A WANDERING TATTLER was seen from the Ogden point Breakwater Highlights of a VNHS walk to Esquimalt, Albert head, and Wittys Lagoon were 2 SEMIPALMATED PLOVERS, 4 LESSER YELLOWLEGS, 1 LONG-BILLED DOWICHER and 1 SHORT-BILLED DOWICHER at Wittys Lagoon. 10 species of shorebirds were seen. Thurs. July 30 2 WANDERING TATTLERS were seen off the Ogden Point Breakwater. Wed July 29 A BANK SWALLOW was seen over Swan Lake Tues July 28 RBA A GREEN-TAILED TOWHEE was seen at Tower Point(Whitty's Lagoon). If confirmed this would be the first record for the Victoria checklist. From the clearing go up the hill to the two picnic tables and the two garbage cans. Near by are two port-a-potties. The bird was frequenting this location near the picnic tables at the edge of the forest. Rick Schortinghuis Victoria BC Subject: Holden Creek/Nanaimo River From: "joncbirder" <jon.carter AT fsmail.net> Date: Wed, 28 Oct 2009 18:53:12 -0000 15 long-billed dowitcher at Holden Creek Tues. morning. Flock of 9 trumpeter swans south east, 1 west & 1 on river at end of Raines Rd. Also 1 juv northern harrier over the saltmarsh. Further details and sightings at: http://britbirderinbc.blogspot.com Jon Subject: parksville/Qualicum Beach Tuesday bird walk, October 27, 2009 From: "canadianrobin2003" <nmrobins AT telus.net> Date: Wed, 28 Oct 2009 17:51:06 -0000 Hi birders, The Tuesday Bird Walk went to Rathtrevor Provincial Park in Parksville. The morning was partly cloudy with strong winds making the Strait of Georgia very choppy. The highlights of the morning included seeing a flock of Dunlin along the tide line. White-winged, Surf and Back Scoters, Pacific and Common Loons, Pigeon Guillemot and Common Mergansers were further offshore. Inland, near the marsh we came across a large mixed flock of songbirds including Chestnut-backed Chickadees, Bushtits, Red-breasted Nuthatch, a Brown Creeper, Winter Wren, Golden-crowned Kinglets, Ruby-crowned Kinglets, a Hutton's Vireo, Varied Thrush and a Townsend's Warbler. Twenty-one birders saw and heard the following forty-four species of birds: American Wigeon Mallard Northern Pintail Greater Scaup Surf Scoter White-winged Scoter Black Scoter Common Merganser Pacific Loon Common Loon Horned Grebe Red-necked Grebe Double-crested Cormorant Pelagic Cormorant Great Blue Heron Bald Eagle Sharp-shinned Hawk Dunlin Mew Gull California Gull Glaucous-winged Gull Pigeon Guillemot Downy Woodpecker Northern Flicker Hutton's Vireo Northwestern Crow Common Raven Chestnut-backed Chickadee Bushtit Red-breasted Nuthatch Brown Creeper Bewick's Wren Winter Wren Golden-crowned Kinglet Ruby-crowned Kinglet American Robin Varied Thrush Townsend's Warbler Spotted Towhee Song Sparrow Dark-eyed Junco House Finch Red Crossbill American Goldfinch Good birding Neil Robins Parksville British Columbia Subject: Cackling Goose From: "broadwingedh" <broadwingedh AT yahoo.com> Date: Tue, 27 Oct 2009 22:16:29 -0000 After leaving the Birdwalk at Rathtrevor this morning I went to Parksville Community Beach Park. There was one Cackling Goose with the Canada Geese on the grass along the ocean drive. Alan Fishkin Subject: Kaye Road Birds From: "empidonax307" <mnc.stephens AT shaw.ca> Date: Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:30:18 -0000 Yesterday in a yard along River's Edge Drive, off Kaye road in Parksville there was a Great Horned Owl, two Red Breasted Sapsuckers, A Northern Flicker, many American Robins,a Golden Crowned Kinglets, Red Breasted Nuthatch, a Spotted Towhee, several Dark Eyed Juncos, and a Purple Finch. Christopher Stephens, Parksville, BC Subject: Nanaimo,Vancouver Island, bird alert--October 25, 2009, From: "backyard_store" <backyard_store AT yahoo.com> Date: Sun, 25 Oct 2009 21:57:14 -0000 Nanaimo bird alert To report your sightings phone the Store at 250-390-3669 e-mail us at thebackyard AT shaw.ca call the Bird Alert at 250-390-3029 Also check the birdstore blog for the latest bird alerts and updates: www.thebirdstore.blogspot.com Post your sightings on this site: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/bcbirdingvanisland/messages Birds of British Columbia: http://www.geog.ubc.ca/biodiversity/efauna/SpeciesChecklists.html International Birdwatching Guides http://www.guidedbirdwatching.com Birdwatching contacts and information find a local birder to go birdwatching with: http://www.birdingpal.org/ Please remember, when reporting a sighting, to leave your name and phone number, along with the date, name and location of your sighting. Sunday October 25, 2009: The Sunday Bird Walk went to the Nanaimo River Estuary in south Nanaimo. The morning was cloudy but the winds were calm. It did start to rain at the end of the morning. The highlights included seeing a Northern Shrike pursuing a Northern Flicker. There were at least two Northern Shrikes perched on a snag, giving us good views. We were fascinated as we observed Shrike chasing prey unsuccessfully three times. We watched a Juvenile Northern Harrier hunting as it flew low over the estuary. A Common Raven gave chase to the Harrier and the Harrier went right back after the Raven until the Raven flew away. The Northern Harrier perched for a long time giving us great views. We could see his mostly rufous coloured body with black wings and disc like face of a owl. There were at least ten Western Meadowlarks perched on trees and flying overhead all through the morning. Fourteen birders heard and saw the following thirty-two species of birds: Canada Goose, Trumpeter Swan, Great Blue Heron, Mallard, Northern Pintail, American Wigeon, Barrow's Goldeneye, Common Merganser, Bald Eagle,Sharp-shinned Hawk, Northern Harrier, Northern Shrike, California Gull, Thayer's Gull, Glaucous-winged Gull, Belted Kingfisher, Northern Flicker, Steller's Jay, Northwestern Crow, Common Raven, Western Meadowlark, Red-winged Blackbird, Eurasian Starling, American Robin, Spotted Towhee, Song Sparrow, Golden-crowned Sparrow, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Bewick's Wren, Purple Finch, House Finch and Red Crossbills. Twelve Long-billed Dowitchers were seen at Holden Creek in south Nanaimo. A Varied Thrush was seen visiting feeders along Boundary Crescent in Nanaimo. Saturday October 24: Twenty-two Pacific Loons were seen off shore off Yellowpoint Road in Cedar. Friday October 23:A Short-eared Owl was seen near the Point at Neck Point Park in Nanaimo. Tuesday October 20: The Tuesday Bird Walk went to Columbia Beach. The morning was cloudy but the wind was calm and the water on the Strait of Georgia was like a mirror. Among the highlights of the morning was a very large feeding ball of gulls and seabirds near the horizon. A raft of Greater Scaup, Surf Scoters and White-winged Scoters were seen not far from shore. Three flocks of Northern Pintail flew high overhead heading down the Strait. A large mixed flock of Gulls including Bonaparte's, Mew, a Ring-billed, California, a Herring, Thayer's and Glaucous-winged Gulls, along with Black Turnstones and Black-bellied Plovers were on the gravel bar near the Pebble Beach Townhouses. Four small noisy flocks of Black Oystercatchers flew past us just above the water. Eighteen birders saw and heard the following forty-six species of birds: Canada Goose, Mallard, Northern Pintail, Greater Scaup, Harlequin Duck, Surf Scoter, White-winged Scoter, Long-tailed Duck, Common Goldeneye, Common Merganser, Red-breasted Merganser, Pacific Loon, Common Loon, Horned Grebe, Red-necked Grebe, Western Grebe, Double-crested Cormorant, Pelagic Cormorant, Great Blue Heron, Bald Eagle, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Merlin, Black-bellied Plover, Black Oystercatcher, Black Turnstone, Bonaparte's Gull, Mew Gull, Ring-billed Gull, California Gull, Herring Gull, Thayer's Gull, Glaucous-winged Gull, Pigeon Guillemot, Rock Pigeon, Belted Kingfisher, Northern Flicker, Pileated Woodpecker, Common Raven, European Starling, Spotted Towhee, Song Sparrow, White-crowned Sparrow, Golden-crowned Sparrow, Dark-eyed Junco, House Finch and Red Crossbill. Sunday October 18: Two Anna's Hummingbirds are visiting feeders near Cathers Lake in Nanaimo. A Peregrine Falcon, an American Kestrel and a Bald Eagle were seen at the Shelly Road side of the Englishman River Estuary in Parksville. Male and female King Parrots and a family of Grey Butcherbirds have been visiting backyard feeders for the past week, along Edith Street North Haven in New South Wales, Australia. For further information on these sightings or for help in identifying a bird please call The Backyard Wildbird and Nature Store AT 250-390-3669 Toll Free AT 1-888-249-4145 e-mail: thebackyard AT shaw.ca ********************************** Arrowsmith Naturalists Guest speaker, Michele Deakin, local biologist, will give an update on eelgrass beds. Monday October 26, 2009 AT 7:30 pm. Springwood School Parksville ********************************** The Nanoose Naturalists Guest Speaker Entemologist Evelyn Stokkink will talk about the life of the Ambrosia Beetle. Thursday November 12, 2009 AT 7:00 pm Nanoose Library, Nanoose Bay ********************************** Everyone is welcome to join us for a 2-3 hour bird walk on the Sunday and Tuesday mornings. We leave from the Store at 9 A.M. Sunday Mornings and go to a different location in and around Nanaimo and from the Parksville Beach Community Park at 9 A.M. on Tuesdays and go to different areas in and around the Oceanside area. ************************************************************** The Tuesday Bird Walk on October 27, 2009 will be going to Rathtrevor Provincial Park in Parksville. Meet at the Parksville Beach Community Park near the parking area at the Lion's Playground at 9:00 A.M. or the main parking area at Rathtrevor Provincial Park. Please note--there is a parking fee at the Park. ***************************************************** The Sunday Bird Walk on November 01 will be going to the Nanoose Estuary in Nanoose Bay. Meet at the Birdstore at 9:00 A.M. or behind the Church Camp off Arlington Road and highway 19, at about 9:15A.M. Please note--daylight savings time ends on November 01 and the clock falls back one hour. ******************************************************* Good birding Neil Robins THE BACKYARD Wildbird & Nature Store 6314 Metral Drive, Nanaimo, BC V9T 2L8 250.390.3669 250.390.1633 fax thebackyard AT shaw.ca CHECK OUT OUR BLOG---> www.thebirdstore.blogspot.com Subject: Sunday bird walk, Nanaimo, Vancouver Island, October 25, 2009 From: "backyard_store" <backyard_store AT yahoo.com> Date: Sun, 25 Oct 2009 21:23:46 -0000 Hi birders, The Sunday Bird Walk went to the Nanaimo River Estuary in south Nanaimo. The morning was cloudy but the winds were calm. It did start to rain at the end of the morning. The highlights included seeing a Northern Shrike pursuing a Northern Flicker. There were at least two Northern Shrikes perched on a snag, giving us good views. We were fascinated as we observed Shrike chasing prey unsuccessfully three times. We watched a Juvenile Northern Harrier hunting as it flew low over the estuary. A Common Raven gave chase to the Harrier and the Harrier went right back after the Raven until the Raven flew away. The Northern Harrier perched for a long time giving us great views. We could see his mostly rufous coloured body with black wings and disc like face of a owl. There were at least ten Western Meadowlarks perched on trees and flying overhead all through the morning. Fourteen birders heard and saw the following thirty-two species of birds: Canada Goose, Trumpeter Swan, Great Blue Heron, Mallard, Northern Pintail, American Wigeon, Barrow's Goldeneye, Common Merganser, Bald Eagle, Merlin, Northern Harrier, Northern Shrike, California Gull, Thayer's Gull, Glaucous-winged Gull, Belted Kingfisher, Northern Flicker, Steller's Jay, Northwestern Crow, Common Raven, Western Meadowlark, Red-winged Blackbird, Eurasian Starling, American Robin, Spotted Towhee, Song Sparrow, Golden-crowned Sparrow, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Bewick's Wren, Purple Finch, House Finch and Red Crossbills. Good birding Neil Robins Nanaimo British Columbia Subject: Holden Creek From: "joncbirder" <jon.carter AT fsmail.net> Date: Sun, 25 Oct 2009 21:02:54 -0000 A total of 22 long-billed dowitcher were present at Holden Creek at 8.20am Sunday 25th October. O Saturday 24th 140+ Pacific loon were off Yellow Point at Cedar plus 2 white-winged and 1 black scoter amongst the surf scoters. 4 western grebe also present. Subject: Backyard Birds From: "canadianrobin2003" <nmrobins AT telus.net> Date: Fri, 23 Oct 2009 22:50:47 -0000 Hi birders, I have just received the following report--- "Male and female King Parrots and a family of Grey Butcherbirds have been visiting backyard feeders along Edith Street in North Haven, New South Wales, Australia." Good birding Neil Robins Parksville British Columbia Subject: Backyard birds From: "canadianrobin2003" <nmrobins AT telus.net> Date: Fri, 23 Oct 2009 22:44:10 -0000 Hi birders, I have just received the following report--- "Male and female King Parrots and a family of Grey Butcherbirds have been visiting backyard feeders along Edith Street in New Haven, New South Wales, Australia." Good birding Neil Robins Parksville British Columbia Subject: Backyard Birds From: "canadianrobin2003" <nmrobins AT telus.net> Date: Fri, 23 Oct 2009 20:34:56 -0000 Hi birders, I have just received the following report--- "Male and female King Parrots and a family of Grey Butcherbirds have been visiting backyard feeders along Edith Street in New South Whales, Australia." Good birding Neil Robins Parksville British Columbia Subject: RBA Victoria, BC Fri Oct 23 2009 From: "Rick Schortinghuis" <shylo AT islandnet.com> Date: Fri, 23 Oct 2009 07:20:37 -0700 RBA * British Columbia * Greater Victoria and Southern Vancouver Is. * Oct 23, 2009 * BCVI090312 - Transcript This is the Victoria Natural History Society's Bird Alert for Fri Oct 23 7:00am update. Compiled and Transcribed by Rick Schortinghuis. Announcement The VNHS Sat Birding Group will be going to Rithets Bog this coming Sat Oct 24. Meet at Dalewood Lane which is off Chatterton Way at 8:00am. Feature Birds EMPEROR GOOSE BROWN PELICAN Thus Oct 22 A Willet was seen on Mary Todd Island from the foot of Bowker Ave Tues Oct 20 RBA for a EMPORER GOOSE seen on the Victoria Golf Course. 5 BROWN PELICANS were seen on Race Rocks 5 BROWN PELICANS, SOTTY SHEARWATERS and a LEACHS STORM PETREL were from the MV COHO in Canadian waters A male RUSTY BLACKBIRD was seen at Galey Farm along the connector trail. An immature SNOW GOOSE was seen on the Victoria Golfcourse An immature SNOW GOOSE was seen off Lochside Dr just south of Lolbrunner. 7 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE were seen on the Lockside School grounds. 2 CACKING CANADA GEESE were seen in Martindale Sun Oct 18 2 SWAINSONS HAWKS were seen over Mt Douglas also there 2 AMERICAN KESTRELS. 4 TRUMPETER SWANS, the first of the fall season were seen over the Blenkinsop Valley. 20 EURASIAN COLLARED DOVES were seen off Wiffin Spit Rd. A PECTORAL SANDPIPER and a RUDDY TURNSTONE were seen at Wiffin Spit Sat Oct 17 7 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS were seen on the VNHS boat trip to Race Rocks, the other highlight was a pod of Dall Porpoises. Mon Oct 12 A juvenile PACIFIC GOLDEN- PLOVER was seen with BLACK-BELLIED PLOVERS on the east side of Saanichton Spit. A WILLET and a RED KNOT were seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. A juvenile GOLDEN EAGLE was seen over Swan Lake. Also there a SWAMP SPARROW, AMERICAN BITTERN, RUDDY DUCK and a REDHEAD. A LAPLAND LONGSPUR was seen south of the boat launch at Island View Beach. Sun Oct 11 A CANVASBACK, RUDDY DUCK, AMERICAN BITTERN and a REDHEAD were seen at Swan Lake. Sat Oct 10 At Kings Pond there was 1 AMERICAN TREE SPARROW seen on the east side, also 1 SWAMP SPARROW. At Swan Lake today there was: 1 RUSTY BLACKBIRD, 1 AMERICAN BITTERN, 1 RUDDY DUCK, 1 REDHEAD. There were 6 HORNED LARKS seen on Mt Douglas. Fri Oct 9 There were 7 HORNED LARKS on Mt Douglas Thurs Oct 8 There was 1 LAPLAND LONGSPUR seen on Christmas Hill. Wed Oct 7 There were 4 HORNED LARKS and 1 LAPLAND LONGSPUR seen on Christmas Hill. A WESTERN MEADOWLARK was seen at Island View Beach Mon Oct 5 There was RUSTY BLACKBIRD with BREWERS BLACKBIRDS at Swan Lake. There were three TOWNSENDS SOLITAIRS seen from the Mt Douglas lookout , also there 2 probable MOUNTAIN BLUEBIRDS, 2 SABINES GULLS and 16 ANCIENT MURRELETS were seen from Tower Point among 20,000 gulls. Sun Oct 4 A ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK was seen over Martindale Rd. There was a HORNED LARK and a TOWNSENDS SOLITAIR seen from the lookout on Mt Douglas. Sat Oct 3 2 MARBLED GODWITS were seen on the beach 500 metres north of Parker Park which is on Parker Ave. 3 SANDHILL CRANES were seen over the Blenkinsop Valley. 12 SOOTY SHEARWATERS and 1 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS were on a mini pelagic boat trip to Race Rocks, also seen a Humpback whale, A WILLET and a RED KNOT were seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. 178 SNOW GEESE were seen over Rocky Point Bird Observatory. Fri Oct 2 A TOWNSENDS SOLITAIR was seen at Saxe Point Park. A HORNED LARK was seen at Cattle Point. 3 SANDHILL CRANES were seen over Martindale Rd. 5 LAPLAND LONGSPURS were seen on CHRISTMAS HILL. Wed Sept 30 A juvenile ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK was seen at UVIC. Sun Sept 27 RBA for a COMMON GRACKLE seen from 3382 Sanderling Way in the Turnstone Development off Happy Valley Rd. Highlights from CRD Hawk Watch in East Sooke Park: 520 TURKEY VULTURES, 4 OSPREY, 2 NORTHERN HARRIERS, 16 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 1 COOPERS HAWK, 1 BROAD-WINGED HAWK, 45 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 1 GOLDEN EAGLE, 1 AMERICAN KESTREL, 1 PEREGRINE FALCON, 5 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE, 26 VAUXS SWIFTS. A HORNED LARK was seen on the floating Boardwalk at Swan Lake. 5 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE were seen with Canada GEESE in a field off Martindale Rd near Welch Rd 2 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS , 6 WESTERN SANDPIPERS, 1 LONG-BILLED DOWICHER and 1 GREATER YELLOW-LEGS were seen at MacIntyre Reservoir. 2 GREATER-WHITE-FRONTED GEESE, 1 LONG-BILLED DOWICHER and 1 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS were seen at Swan Lake. Sat Sept 26 Highlights from the Hawk Watch in East Sooke Park: 400 TURKEY VULTURES, 1 BROAD-WINGED HAWK, 25 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 2 PEREGRINE FALCONS, 1 MERLIN, 15 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 5 COOPERS HAWKS, 1 NORTHERN GOSHAWK, 2 BALD EAGLES, 1 OSPREY, 4 SANDHILL CRANES, 200 BAND-TAILED PIGEONS, 15 VAUXS SWIFTS, several BLACK SWIFTS, 3 EVENING GROSBEAKS. A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. An adult FRANKLINS GULL was seen on the sand bar by the bridge at Esquimalt Lagoon. A WHITE-THROATED SPARROW was seen at the south end of the bridge at Blenkinsop Lake. 4 SANDHILL CRANES were seen off of Sahilton Rd in Duncan. Thurs Sept 23 2 BROAD-WINGED HAWKS and a WHITE-THROATED SPARROW were seen at Rocky Point Observatory. Also there 600 TURKEY VULTURES, 1 NORTHERN HARRIER, 6 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 1 COOPERS HAWK, 6 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 1 AMERICAN KESTREL, 1 PEREGRINE FALCON, 70 VAUXS SWIFTS, 180 BAND-TAILED PIGEONS. A reminder RPBO is on DND land access is restricted to volunteers of RPBO. Mon Sept 21 A BLACK-LEGGED KITTYWAKE was seen from Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon). Also there a RING-BILLED GULL. Sun Sept 20 A PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATER was seen off Tower Point. An AMERICAN BITTERN was seen at Swan Lake. Sat Sept 19 A SWAINSONS HAWK and a NORTHERN GOSHAWK were seen at Rocky Point Bird Observatory. A reminder that RPBO is on DND land and access is restricted. Fri Sept 18 A WILLET and a RED KNOT were seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Thurs Sept 17 RBA for a RED-SHOULDERED HAWK seen at Rocky Point Bird Observatory. This would be the first record for BC. Also there a BROAD-WINGED HAWK. A reminder, RPBO is on DND property, access is restricted. RBA for a BLACK-FOOTED ALBATROSS seen from Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon). This would be the fourth record for the VNHS Check List. A RED KNOT and a WILLET were seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Wed Sept 16 A RED KNOT and WILLET were seen on Mary Todd Island which is the island closest to the Oak Bay Marina. A WESTERN PALM WARBLER was seen along the Galloping Goose Trail between Brittany Dr. and Jacklin Rd. Several SANDHILL CRANES were heard over RPBO. A reminder RPBO is on DND land and access is restricted. Tues Sept 16 A RED KNOT and a WILLET were seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. An AMERICAN BITTERN , MERLIN and a NORTHERN HARRIER were seen at Swan Lake. Mon Sept 14 A SAINSONS HAWK was seen from the Beechey Head Lookout at East Sooke Park. Also there 2 PEREGRINE FALCONS, 2 MERLINS, 6 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 3 COOPERS HAWKS, 2 NORTHERN HARRIERS, 12 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 2 BALD EAGLES and 60 TURKEY VULTURES. Sun Sept 13 A RED-EYED VIREO was heard from the zig zag portion of the floating boardwalk at Swan Lake. A WESTERN KINGBIRD was seen at RPBO. A reminder that RPBO is on DND land and access is restricted. A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Thurs Sept 10 A NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH was seen by the switch back portion of the floating boardwalk at Swan Lake. A WILLET was seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Wed Sept 9 A Willet was seen again at the foot of Bowker Ave. in Oak Bay. Tues Sept 8 A NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH was seen from the switch back portion of floating boardwalk at Swan Lake. On Monday one was seen near Tues pond. A Willet was seen from the foot of Bowker in Oak Bay. A DUSKY FLYCATCHER was seen in Pemberton Park which is off of Gonzales Ave and Richardson St. Sat Sept 5 A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. A SOLITARY SANDPIPER and a PECTORAL SANDPIPER were seen at MacIntrye Reservoir. A PECTORAL SANDPIPER and a 3 SEMI-PALMATED PLOVERS were seen at Wittys Lagoon. Hundreds of SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 10 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS, 1 SHORT-TAILED SHEARWATER and 6 FORK-TAILED STORM-PETREL were seen from the MV COHO Thurs Sept 3 A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. A BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER was seen at Wiffin Spit. A SOLITARY SANDPIPER was seen at MacIntyre Reservoir. A BAIRDS SANDPIPER was seen at Saanichton Spit. A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen on the beach east of Ogden Point. Wed Sept 2 A BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER was seen at Wiffin Spit. 2 BAIRDS SANDPIPERS were see on Saanichton Spit on the east side. Tues Sept 1 A GREEN HERON was seen at Swan Lake Sun Aug 30 400 SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 4 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS, 1 SHORT-TAILED SHEARWATER, 1 NORTHERN FULMAR, 1 FORK-TAILED STORM-PETREL, 2 CASSINS AUCKLETS, 1 TUFTED PUFFIN were seen from the MV COHO ferry in Canadian Waters. 1 RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen with BLACK TURNSTONES on the beach east of Ogden Point near where the stairs go down to the water. Sat Aug 29 RBA for a BROWN BOOBY seen perched on the mast of a fishing boat, for about 4 hrs Sat afternoon from Otter Point to the Sooke Harbour, it then flew towards East Sooke Park. Pictures to posted soon. RBA for a BROWN BOOBY seen off Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon) 7:30 in the evening. A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen on the beach east of Ogden Point below Dallas Rd at Boyd St. 22 RED-NECKED PHALAROPES were seen off the Ogden Point Breakwater. A GREEN HERON was seen on the railing of the floating Boardwalk at Swan Lake. Fri Aug 28 A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen on the beach east of Ogden Point. A CASSINS AUCKLET was seen Clover Point, also there a PARASITIC JAEGER An AMERICAN GLODEN- PLOVER was seen at Albert Head Lagoon. 200 SOOTY SHEARWATERS were seen off Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon) Thurs Aug 27 A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen with BLACK TURNSTONES on the beach just east of the Ogden Point Breakwater. An AMERICAN GODEN-PLOVER was seen at Albert Head Lagoon. 50 SOOTY SHEARWATERS and 1 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATER were seen from Tower Point(Wittys Lagoon) A SNOW GOOSE was seen at Maber Flats Wed Aug 26 RBA for a MANX SHEARWATER and a SOUTH POLAR SKUA seen from Tower Point(Wittys Lagoon), also there 150 SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 2 NORTHERN FULMARS, 2 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS, 2 PARSITC JAEGERS. 90 SOOTY SHEARWATERS , 2 PARASITC JAEGERS and 1 POMARINE JAEGER were seen from Beechy Head in East Sooke Park. Mon Aug 24 A SORA was heard in the southeast part of Rithets Bog Sun Aug 23 RBA for 1 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATER, also 2 POMARINE JAEGERS, 1 PARASTIC JAEGER, 3 SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 6 NORTHERN FULMARS and 3 SEMIPALMATED PLOVERS were seen from Tower Point(Wittys Lagoon). Also a GOLDEN EAGLE was seen on the trip there. Fri Aug 21 Highlights of birds seen from the MV COHO on a VNHS Trip to Dungeness Spit: A PARASITIC JAEGER and several SOOTY SHEARWATERS were seen on the way out, a POMARINE JAEGER was seen on the way back, all in Canadian waters. Tues Aug 18 There were a small number of RED-NECKED PHALAROPES seen off of Clover Point. 24 COMMON NIGHTHAWKS were seen over the Juan de Fuca Rec Centre Monday Aug 17 2 BANK SWALLOWS were seen at Swan Lake 1 BLACK SWIFT was seen over Hector Rd. Sun Aug 16 Highlights of birds seen from the MV COHO on a VNHS Trip to Cape Flattery. 2 PARASITIC JAEGERS, NORTHERN FULMAR and several RED- NECKED PHALAROPES Sat Aug 15 RBA for a CLAY-COLOURED SPARROW seen where the jogging trail meets the main trail on the southwest side of Swan Lake 1 SOLITARY SANDPIPER AND 1 PECTORAL SANDPIPER were seen at Rithets Bog 6 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS were seen in a ditch along Lockside Trail south of Martindale Rd near the pig farm. Friday Aug 14 6 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS were see along Lockside Trail between Martindale Rd and Dooley Rd. 1 BLACK SWIFT was seen over Portage Inlet Thurs Aug 13 3 BLACK SWIFTS were seen over Sunnygrove Ter. Wed Aug 12 2 BAIRDS SANDPIPERS were seen at Wittys Lagoon also there 2 BLUE-WINGED TEAL. Tues.. Aug. 11 1 TUFTED PUFFIN, 2 BROWN PELICANS, 1 LONG-TAILED JAEGER, 1 CASSINS AUKLET, 5 RED-NECKED PHALAROPES, and 3 ANCIENT MURRELETS were seen off Tower Point. 3 WANDERING TATTLERS were seen between Holland Point and Ogden Point Thursday Aug 6 RBA for a HERMIT WARBLER seen at 4655 Kerryiew Dr, in the Prospect Lake area, birders are welcome, Sun Aug 1 A SOLITARY SANDPIPER was seen at McIntyre Reservoir , also there 9 LONG-BILLED DOWICHERS and 1 LESSER YELLOWLEGS among the 8 species of shorebirds seen. An AMERICAN BITTERN was across the lake from the lollipop boardwalk Sat Aug 1 An AMERICAN BITTERN was seen across the lake from the lollipop boardwalk A WANDERING TATTLER was seen from the Ogden point Breakwater Highlights of a VNHS walk to Esquimalt, Albert head, and Wittys Lagoon were 2 SEMIPALMATED PLOVERS, 4 LESSER YELLOWLEGS, 1 LONG-BILLED DOWICHER and 1 SHORT-BILLED DOWICHER at Wittys Lagoon. 10 species of shorebirds were seen. Thurs. July 30 2 WANDERING TATTLERS were seen off the Ogden Point Breakwater. Wed July 29 A BANK SWALLOW was seen over Swan Lake Tues July 28 RBA A GREEN-TAILED TOWHEE was seen at Tower Point(Whitty's Lagoon). If confirmed this would be the first record for the Victoria checklist. From the clearing go up the hill to the two picnic tables and the two garbage cans. Near by are two port-a-potties. The bird was frequenting this location near the picnic tables at the edge of the forest. Rick Schortinghuis Victoria BC Subject: Long-billed Dowitchers at Courtenay Airpark Lagoon. From: "Dave" <daveingram AT canoemail.com> Date: Thu, 22 Oct 2009 21:21:54 -0000 Nice flock of more than 12 Long-billed Dowitchers feeding in the grass and mud near the main viewing platform on the riverside of the Courtenay Airpark Lagoon late in the afternoon on October 21. Ruddy duck was still there yesterday as well. Pictures at: Long-billed Dowitchers at Airpark Lagoon Cheers, Dave Ingram Subject: Tropical Kingbird From: "gke_55" <karmanah AT islandnet.com> Date: Thu, 22 Oct 2009 01:02:52 -0000 Hello, I got home from a 3 week road trip on Monday (the 19th) to find a Tropical Kingbird waiting to greet me. It hung around and fed for about four hours. Jerry Etzkorn Carmanah Point Lightstation Subject: Parksville/Qualicum Beach Tuesday bird walk, October 21, 2009 From: "canadianrobin2003" <nmrobins AT telus.net> Date: Wed, 21 Oct 2009 18:05:05 -0000 Hi birders, The Tuesday Bird Walk went to Columbia Beach. The morning was cloudy but the wind was calm and the water on the Strait of Georgia was like a mirror. Among the highlights of the morning was a very large feeding ball of gulls and seabirds near the horizon. A raft of Greater Scaup, Surf Scoters and White-winged Scoters were seen not far from shore. Three flocks of Northern Pintail flew high overhead heading down the Strait. A large mixed flock of Gulls including Bonaparte's, Mew, a Ring-billed, California, a Herring, Thayer's and Glaucous-winged Gulls, along with Black Turnstones and Black-bellied Plovers were on the gravel bar near the Pebble Beach Townhouses. Four small noisey flocks of Black Oystercatchers flew past us just above the water. Eighteen birders saw and heard the following forty-six species of birds: Canada Goose Mallard Northern Pintail Greater Scaup Harlequin Duck Surf Scoter White-winged Scoter Long-tailed Duck Common Goldeneye Common Merganser Red-breasted Merganser Pacific Loon Common Loon Horned Grebe Red-necked Grebe Western Grebe Double-crested Cormorant Pelagic Cormorant Great Blue Heron Bald Eagle Sharp-shinned Hawk Merlin Black-bellied Plover Black Oystercatcher Black Turnstone Bonaparte's Gull Mew Gull Ring-billed Gull California Gull Herring Gull Thayer's Gull Glaucous-winged Gull Pigeon Guillemot Rock Dove Belted Kingfisher Northern Flicker Pileated Woodpecker Common Raven European Starling Spotted Towhee Song Sparrow White-crowned Sparrow Golden-crowned Sparrow Dark-eyed Junco House Finch Red Crossbill Good birding Neil Robins Parksville British Columbia Subject: RBA Victoria, BC Wed Oct 21 2009 From: "Rick Schortinghuis" <shylo AT islandnet.com> Date: Wed, 21 Oct 2009 07:14:55 -0700 RBA * British Columbia * Greater Victoria and Southern Vancouver Is. * Oct 21, 2009 * BCVI090312 - Transcript This is the Victoria Natural History Society's Bird Alert for WedOct 21 7:00am update. Compiled and Transcribed by Rick Schortinghuis. Feature Birds RUSTY BLACKBIRD GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE Tues Oct 20 A male RUSTY BLACKBIRD was seen at Galey Farm along the connector trail. An immature SNOW GOOSE was seen on the Victoria Golfcourse An immature SNOW GOOSE was seen off Lochside Dr just south of Lolbrunner. 7 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE were seen on the Lockside School grounds. 2 CACKING CANADA GEESE were seen in Martindale Sun Oct 18 2 SWAINSONS HAWKS were seen over Mt Douglas also there 2 AMERICAN KESTRELS. 4 TRUMPETER SWANS, the first of the fall season were seen over the Blenkinsop Valley. 20 EURASIAN COLLARED DOVES were seen off Wiffin Spit Rd. A PECTORAL SANDPIPER and a RUDDY TURNSTONE were seen at Wiffin Spit Sat Oct 17 7 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS were seen on the VNHS boat trip to Race Rocks, the other highlight was a pod of Dall Porpoises. Mon Oct 12 A juvenile PACIFIC GOLDEN- PLOVER was seen with BLACK-BELLIED PLOVERS on the east side of Saanichton Spit. A WILLET and a RED KNOT were seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. A juvenile GOLDEN EAGLE was seen over Swan Lake. Also there a SWAMP SPARROW, AMERICAN BITTERN, RUDDY DUCK and a REDHEAD. A LAPLAND LONGSPUR was seen south of the boat launch at Island View Beach. Sun Oct 11 A CANVASBACK, RUDDY DUCK, AMERICAN BITTERN and a REDHEAD were seen at Swan Lake. Sat Oct 10 At Kings Pond there was 1 AMERICAN TREE SPARROW seen on the east side, also 1 SWAMP SPARROW. At Swan Lake today there was: 1 RUSTY BLACKBIRD, 1 AMERICAN BITTERN, 1 RUDDY DUCK, 1 REDHEAD. There were 6 HORNED LARKS seen on Mt Douglas. Fri Oct 9 There were 7 HORNED LARKS on Mt Douglas Thurs Oct 8 There was 1 LAPLAND LONGSPUR seen on Christmas Hill. Wed Oct 7 There were 4 HORNED LARKS and 1 LAPLAND LONGSPUR seen on Christmas Hill. A WESTERN MEADOWLARK was seen at Island View Beach Mon Oct 5 There was RUSTY BLACKBIRD with BREWERS BLACKBIRDS at Swan Lake. There were three TOWNSENDS SOLITAIRS seen from the Mt Douglas lookout , also there 2 probable MOUNTAIN BLUEBIRDS, 2 SABINES GULLS and 16 ANCIENT MURRELETS were seen from Tower Point among 20,000 gulls. Sun Oct 4 A ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK was seen over Martindale Rd. There was a HORNED LARK and a TOWNSENDS SOLITAIR seen from the lookout on Mt Douglas. Sat Oct 3 2 MARBLED GODWITS were seen on the beach 500 metres north of Parker Park which is on Parker Ave. 3 SANDHILL CRANES were seen over the Blenkinsop Valley. 12 SOOTY SHEARWATERS and 1 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS were on a mini pelagic boat trip to Race Rocks, also seen a Humpback whale, A WILLET and a RED KNOT were seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. 178 SNOW GEESE were seen over Rocky Point Bird Observatory. Fri Oct 2 A TOWNSENDS SOLITAIR was seen at Saxe Point Park. A HORNED LARK was seen at Cattle Point. 3 SANDHILL CRANES were seen over Martindale Rd. 5 LAPLAND LONGSPURS were seen on CHRISTMAS HILL. Wed Sept 30 A juvenile ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK was seen at UVIC. Sun Sept 27 RBA for a COMMON GRACKLE seen from 3382 Sanderling Way in the Turnstone Development off Happy Valley Rd. Highlights from CRD Hawk Watch in East Sooke Park: 520 TURKEY VULTURES, 4 OSPREY, 2 NORTHERN HARRIERS, 16 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 1 COOPERS HAWK, 1 BROAD-WINGED HAWK, 45 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 1 GOLDEN EAGLE, 1 AMERICAN KESTREL, 1 PEREGRINE FALCON, 5 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE, 26 VAUXS SWIFTS. A HORNED LARK was seen on the floating Boardwalk at Swan Lake. 5 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE were seen with Canada GEESE in a field off Martindale Rd near Welch Rd 2 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS , 6 WESTERN SANDPIPERS, 1 LONG-BILLED DOWICHER and 1 GREATER YELLOW-LEGS were seen at MacIntyre Reservoir. 2 GREATER-WHITE-FRONTED GEESE, 1 LONG-BILLED DOWICHER and 1 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS were seen at Swan Lake. Sat Sept 26 Highlights from the Hawk Watch in East Sooke Park: 400 TURKEY VULTURES, 1 BROAD-WINGED HAWK, 25 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 2 PEREGRINE FALCONS, 1 MERLIN, 15 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 5 COOPERS HAWKS, 1 NORTHERN GOSHAWK, 2 BALD EAGLES, 1 OSPREY, 4 SANDHILL CRANES, 200 BAND-TAILED PIGEONS, 15 VAUXS SWIFTS, several BLACK SWIFTS, 3 EVENING GROSBEAKS. A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. An adult FRANKLINS GULL was seen on the sand bar by the bridge at Esquimalt Lagoon. A WHITE-THROATED SPARROW was seen at the south end of the bridge at Blenkinsop Lake. 4 SANDHILL CRANES were seen off of Sahilton Rd in Duncan. Thurs Sept 23 2 BROAD-WINGED HAWKS and a WHITE-THROATED SPARROW were seen at Rocky Point Observatory. Also there 600 TURKEY VULTURES, 1 NORTHERN HARRIER, 6 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 1 COOPERS HAWK, 6 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 1 AMERICAN KESTREL, 1 PEREGRINE FALCON, 70 VAUXS SWIFTS, 180 BAND-TAILED PIGEONS. A reminder RPBO is on DND land access is restricted to volunteers of RPBO. Mon Sept 21 A BLACK-LEGGED KITTYWAKE was seen from Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon). Also there a RING-BILLED GULL. Sun Sept 20 A PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATER was seen off Tower Point. An AMERICAN BITTERN was seen at Swan Lake. Sat Sept 19 A SWAINSONS HAWK and a NORTHERN GOSHAWK were seen at Rocky Point Bird Observatory. A reminder that RPBO is on DND land and access is restricted. Fri Sept 18 A WILLET and a RED KNOT were seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Thurs Sept 17 RBA for a RED-SHOULDERED HAWK seen at Rocky Point Bird Observatory. This would be the first record for BC. Also there a BROAD-WINGED HAWK. A reminder, RPBO is on DND property, access is restricted. RBA for a BLACK-FOOTED ALBATROSS seen from Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon). This would be the fourth record for the VNHS Check List. A RED KNOT and a WILLET were seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Wed Sept 16 A RED KNOT and WILLET were seen on Mary Todd Island which is the island closest to the Oak Bay Marina. A WESTERN PALM WARBLER was seen along the Galloping Goose Trail between Brittany Dr. and Jacklin Rd. Several SANDHILL CRANES were heard over RPBO. A reminder RPBO is on DND land and access is restricted. Tues Sept 16 A RED KNOT and a WILLET were seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. An AMERICAN BITTERN , MERLIN and a NORTHERN HARRIER were seen at Swan Lake. Mon Sept 14 A SAINSONS HAWK was seen from the Beechey Head Lookout at East Sooke Park. Also there 2 PEREGRINE FALCONS, 2 MERLINS, 6 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 3 COOPERS HAWKS, 2 NORTHERN HARRIERS, 12 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 2 BALD EAGLES and 60 TURKEY VULTURES. Sun Sept 13 A RED-EYED VIREO was heard from the zig zag portion of the floating boardwalk at Swan Lake. A WESTERN KINGBIRD was seen at RPBO. A reminder that RPBO is on DND land and access is restricted. A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Thurs Sept 10 A NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH was seen by the switch back portion of the floating boardwalk at Swan Lake. A WILLET was seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Wed Sept 9 A Willet was seen again at the foot of Bowker Ave. in Oak Bay. Tues Sept 8 A NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH was seen from the switch back portion of floating boardwalk at Swan Lake. On Monday one was seen near Tues pond. A Willet was seen from the foot of Bowker in Oak Bay. A DUSKY FLYCATCHER was seen in Pemberton Park which is off of Gonzales Ave and Richardson St. Sat Sept 5 A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. A SOLITARY SANDPIPER and a PECTORAL SANDPIPER were seen at MacIntrye Reservoir. A PECTORAL SANDPIPER and a 3 SEMI-PALMATED PLOVERS were seen at Wittys Lagoon. Hundreds of SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 10 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS, 1 SHORT-TAILED SHEARWATER and 6 FORK-TAILED STORM-PETREL were seen from the MV COHO Thurs Sept 3 A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. A BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER was seen at Wiffin Spit. A SOLITARY SANDPIPER was seen at MacIntyre Reservoir. A BAIRDS SANDPIPER was seen at Saanichton Spit. A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen on the beach east of Ogden Point. Wed Sept 2 A BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER was seen at Wiffin Spit. 2 BAIRDS SANDPIPERS were see on Saanichton Spit on the east side. Tues Sept 1 A GREEN HERON was seen at Swan Lake Sun Aug 30 400 SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 4 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS, 1 SHORT-TAILED SHEARWATER, 1 NORTHERN FULMAR, 1 FORK-TAILED STORM-PETREL, 2 CASSINS AUCKLETS, 1 TUFTED PUFFIN were seen from the MV COHO ferry in Canadian Waters. 1 RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen with BLACK TURNSTONES on the beach east of Ogden Point near where the stairs go down to the water. Sat Aug 29 RBA for a BROWN BOOBY seen perched on the mast of a fishing boat, for about 4 hrs Sat afternoon from Otter Point to the Sooke Harbour, it then flew towards East Sooke Park. Pictures to posted soon. RBA for a BROWN BOOBY seen off Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon) 7:30 in the evening. A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen on the beach east of Ogden Point below Dallas Rd at Boyd St. 22 RED-NECKED PHALAROPES were seen off the Ogden Point Breakwater. A GREEN HERON was seen on the railing of the floating Boardwalk at Swan Lake. Fri Aug 28 A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen on the beach east of Ogden Point. A CASSINS AUCKLET was seen Clover Point, also there a PARASITIC JAEGER An AMERICAN GLODEN- PLOVER was seen at Albert Head Lagoon. 200 SOOTY SHEARWATERS were seen off Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon) Thurs Aug 27 A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen with BLACK TURNSTONES on the beach just east of the Ogden Point Breakwater. An AMERICAN GODEN-PLOVER was seen at Albert Head Lagoon. 50 SOOTY SHEARWATERS and 1 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATER were seen from Tower Point(Wittys Lagoon) A SNOW GOOSE was seen at Maber Flats Wed Aug 26 RBA for a MANX SHEARWATER and a SOUTH POLAR SKUA seen from Tower Point(Wittys Lagoon), also there 150 SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 2 NORTHERN FULMARS, 2 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS, 2 PARSITC JAEGERS. 90 SOOTY SHEARWATERS , 2 PARASITC JAEGERS and 1 POMARINE JAEGER were seen from Beechy Head in East Sooke Park. Mon Aug 24 A SORA was heard in the southeast part of Rithets Bog Sun Aug 23 RBA for 1 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATER, also 2 POMARINE JAEGERS, 1 PARASTIC JAEGER, 3 SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 6 NORTHERN FULMARS and 3 SEMIPALMATED PLOVERS were seen from Tower Point(Wittys Lagoon). Also a GOLDEN EAGLE was seen on the trip there. Fri Aug 21 Highlights of birds seen from the MV COHO on a VNHS Trip to Dungeness Spit: A PARASITIC JAEGER and several SOOTY SHEARWATERS were seen on the way out, a POMARINE JAEGER was seen on the way back, all in Canadian waters. Tues Aug 18 There were a small number of RED-NECKED PHALAROPES seen off of Clover Point. 24 COMMON NIGHTHAWKS were seen over the Juan de Fuca Rec Centre Monday Aug 17 2 BANK SWALLOWS were seen at Swan Lake 1 BLACK SWIFT was seen over Hector Rd. Sun Aug 16 Highlights of birds seen from the MV COHO on a VNHS Trip to Cape Flattery. 2 PARASITIC JAEGERS, NORTHERN FULMAR and several RED- NECKED PHALAROPES Sat Aug 15 RBA for a CLAY-COLOURED SPARROW seen where the jogging trail meets the main trail on the southwest side of Swan Lake 1 SOLITARY SANDPIPER AND 1 PECTORAL SANDPIPER were seen at Rithets Bog 6 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS were seen in a ditch along Lockside Trail south of Martindale Rd near the pig farm. Friday Aug 14 6 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS were see along Lockside Trail between Martindale Rd and Dooley Rd. 1 BLACK SWIFT was seen over Portage Inlet Thurs Aug 13 3 BLACK SWIFTS were seen over Sunnygrove Ter. Wed Aug 12 2 BAIRDS SANDPIPERS were seen at Wittys Lagoon also there 2 BLUE-WINGED TEAL. Tues.. Aug. 11 1 TUFTED PUFFIN, 2 BROWN PELICANS, 1 LONG-TAILED JAEGER, 1 CASSINS AUKLET, 5 RED-NECKED PHALAROPES, and 3 ANCIENT MURRELETS were seen off Tower Point. 3 WANDERING TATTLERS were seen between Holland Point and Ogden Point Thursday Aug 6 RBA for a HERMIT WARBLER seen at 4655 Kerryiew Dr, in the Prospect Lake area, birders are welcome, Sun Aug 1 A SOLITARY SANDPIPER was seen at McIntyre Reservoir , also there 9 LONG-BILLED DOWICHERS and 1 LESSER YELLOWLEGS among the 8 species of shorebirds seen. An AMERICAN BITTERN was across the lake from the lollipop boardwalk Sat Aug 1 An AMERICAN BITTERN was seen across the lake from the lollipop boardwalk A WANDERING TATTLER was seen from the Ogden point Breakwater Highlights of a VNHS walk to Esquimalt, Albert head, and Wittys Lagoon were 2 SEMIPALMATED PLOVERS, 4 LESSER YELLOWLEGS, 1 LONG-BILLED DOWICHER and 1 SHORT-BILLED DOWICHER at Wittys Lagoon. 10 species of shorebirds were seen. Thurs. July 30 2 WANDERING TATTLERS were seen off the Ogden Point Breakwater. Wed July 29 A BANK SWALLOW was seen over Swan Lake Tues July 28 RBA A GREEN-TAILED TOWHEE was seen at Tower Point(Whitty's Lagoon). If confirmed this would be the first record for the Victoria checklist. From the clearing go up the hill to the two picnic tables and the two garbage cans. Near by are two port-a-potties. The bird was frequenting this location near the picnic tables at the edge of the forest. Rick Schortinghuis Victoria BC Subject: Holden Creek From: "canadianrobin2003" <nmrobins AT telus.net> Date: Mon, 19 Oct 2009 17:02:24 -0000 Hi birders, I have received a report of a Stilt Sandpiper, Pectral Sandpipers, Long-billed Dowitchers and Dunlin seen yesterday October 18, 2009 at Holden Creek near the Nanaimo River Estuary in south Nanaimo. Good birding Neil Robins Parksville British Columbia Subject: RBA Victoria, BC Mon Oct 19 2009 From: "Rick Schortinghuis" <shylo AT islandnet.com> Date: Mon, 19 Oct 2009 07:14:54 -0700 RBA * British Columbia * Greater Victoria and Southern Vancouver Is. * Oct 19, 2009 * BCVI090312 - Transcript This is the Victoria Natural History Society's Bird Alert for Mon Oct 19 7:00am update. Compiled and Transcribed by Rick Schortinghuis. Feature Birds PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATER SAINSONS HAWK EURASIAN COLLARED DOVE PECTORAL SANDPIPER RUDDY TURNSTONE AMERICAN KESTREL TRUMPETER SWAN Sun Oct 18 2 SWAINSONS HAWKS were seen over Mt Douglas also there 2 AMERICAN KESTRELS. 4 TRUMPETER SWANS, the first of the fall season were seen over the Blenkinsop Valley. 20 EURASIAN COLLARED DOVES were seen off Wiffin Spit Rd. A PECTORAL SANDPIPER and a RUDDY TURNSTONE were seen at Wiffin Spit Sat Oct 17 7 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS were seen on the VNHS boat trip to Race Rocks, the other highlight was a pod of Dall Porpoises. Mon Oct 12 A juvenile PACIFIC GOLDEN- PLOVER was seen with BLACK-BELLIED PLOVERS on the east side of Saanichton Spit. A WILLET and a RED KNOT were seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. A juvenile GOLDEN EAGLE was seen over Swan Lake. Also there a SWAMP SPARROW, AMERICAN BITTERN, RUDDY DUCK and a REDHEAD. A LAPLAND LONGSPUR was seen south of the boat launch at Island View Beach. Sun Oct 11 A CANVASBACK, RUDDY DUCK, AMERICAN BITTERN and a REDHEAD were seen at Swan Lake. Sat Oct 10 At Kings Pond there was 1 AMERICAN TREE SPARROW seen on the east side, also 1 SWAMP SPARROW. At Swan Lake today there was: 1 RUSTY BLACKBIRD, 1 AMERICAN BITTERN, 1 RUDDY DUCK, 1 REDHEAD. There were 6 HORNED LARKS seen on Mt Douglas. Fri Oct 9 There were 7 HORNED LARKS on Mt Douglas Thurs Oct 8 There was 1 LAPLAND LONGSPUR seen on Christmas Hill. Wed Oct 7 There were 4 HORNED LARKS and 1 LAPLAND LONGSPUR seen on Christmas Hill. A WESTERN MEADOWLARK was seen at Island View Beach Mon Oct 5 There was RUSTY BLACKBIRD with BREWERS BLACKBIRDS at Swan Lake. There were three TOWNSENDS SOLITAIRS seen from the Mt Douglas lookout , also there 2 probable MOUNTAIN BLUEBIRDS, 2 SABINES GULLS and 16 ANCIENT MURRELETS were seen from Tower Point among 20,000 gulls. Sun Oct 4 A ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK was seen over Martindale Rd. There was a HORNED LARK and a TOWNSENDS SOLITAIR seen from the lookout on Mt Douglas. Sat Oct 3 2 MARBLED GODWITS were seen on the beach 500 metres north of Parker Park which is on Parker Ave. 3 SANDHILL CRANES were seen over the Blenkinsop Valley. 12 SOOTY SHEARWATERS and 1 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS were on a mini pelagic boat trip to Race Rocks, also seen a Humpback whale, A WILLET and a RED KNOT were seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. 178 SNOW GEESE were seen over Rocky Point Bird Observatory. Fri Oct 2 A TOWNSENDS SOLITAIR was seen at Saxe Point Park. A HORNED LARK was seen at Cattle Point. 3 SANDHILL CRANES were seen over Martindale Rd. 5 LAPLAND LONGSPURS were seen on CHRISTMAS HILL. Wed Sept 30 A juvenile ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK was seen at UVIC. Sun Sept 27 RBA for a COMMON GRACKLE seen from 3382 Sanderling Way in the Turnstone Development off Happy Valley Rd. Highlights from CRD Hawk Watch in East Sooke Park: 520 TURKEY VULTURES, 4 OSPREY, 2 NORTHERN HARRIERS, 16 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 1 COOPERS HAWK, 1 BROAD-WINGED HAWK, 45 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 1 GOLDEN EAGLE, 1 AMERICAN KESTREL, 1 PEREGRINE FALCON, 5 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE, 26 VAUXS SWIFTS. A HORNED LARK was seen on the floating Boardwalk at Swan Lake. 5 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE were seen with Canada GEESE in a field off Martindale Rd near Welch Rd 2 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS , 6 WESTERN SANDPIPERS, 1 LONG-BILLED DOWICHER and 1 GREATER YELLOW-LEGS were seen at MacIntyre Reservoir. 2 GREATER-WHITE-FRONTED GEESE, 1 LONG-BILLED DOWICHER and 1 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS were seen at Swan Lake. Sat Sept 26 Highlights from the Hawk Watch in East Sooke Park: 400 TURKEY VULTURES, 1 BROAD-WINGED HAWK, 25 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 2 PEREGRINE FALCONS, 1 MERLIN, 15 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 5 COOPERS HAWKS, 1 NORTHERN GOSHAWK, 2 BALD EAGLES, 1 OSPREY, 4 SANDHILL CRANES, 200 BAND-TAILED PIGEONS, 15 VAUXS SWIFTS, several BLACK SWIFTS, 3 EVENING GROSBEAKS. A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. An adult FRANKLINS GULL was seen on the sand bar by the bridge at Esquimalt Lagoon. A WHITE-THROATED SPARROW was seen at the south end of the bridge at Blenkinsop Lake. 4 SANDHILL CRANES were seen off of Sahilton Rd in Duncan. Thurs Sept 23 2 BROAD-WINGED HAWKS and a WHITE-THROATED SPARROW were seen at Rocky Point Observatory. Also there 600 TURKEY VULTURES, 1 NORTHERN HARRIER, 6 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 1 COOPERS HAWK, 6 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 1 AMERICAN KESTREL, 1 PEREGRINE FALCON, 70 VAUXS SWIFTS, 180 BAND-TAILED PIGEONS. A reminder RPBO is on DND land access is restricted to volunteers of RPBO. Mon Sept 21 A BLACK-LEGGED KITTYWAKE was seen from Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon). Also there a RING-BILLED GULL. Sun Sept 20 A PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATER was seen off Tower Point. An AMERICAN BITTERN was seen at Swan Lake. Sat Sept 19 A SWAINSONS HAWK and a NORTHERN GOSHAWK were seen at Rocky Point Bird Observatory. A reminder that RPBO is on DND land and access is restricted. Fri Sept 18 A WILLET and a RED KNOT were seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Thurs Sept 17 RBA for a RED-SHOULDERED HAWK seen at Rocky Point Bird Observatory. This would be the first record for BC. Also there a BROAD-WINGED HAWK. A reminder, RPBO is on DND property, access is restricted. RBA for a BLACK-FOOTED ALBATROSS seen from Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon). This would be the fourth record for the VNHS Check List. A RED KNOT and a WILLET were seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Wed Sept 16 A RED KNOT and WILLET were seen on Mary Todd Island which is the island closest to the Oak Bay Marina. A WESTERN PALM WARBLER was seen along the Galloping Goose Trail between Brittany Dr. and Jacklin Rd. Several SANDHILL CRANES were heard over RPBO. A reminder RPBO is on DND land and access is restricted. Tues Sept 16 A RED KNOT and a WILLET were seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. An AMERICAN BITTERN , MERLIN and a NORTHERN HARRIER were seen at Swan Lake. Mon Sept 14 A SAINSONS HAWK was seen from the Beechey Head Lookout at East Sooke Park. Also there 2 PEREGRINE FALCONS, 2 MERLINS, 6 SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, 3 COOPERS HAWKS, 2 NORTHERN HARRIERS, 12 RED-TAILED HAWKS, 2 BALD EAGLES and 60 TURKEY VULTURES. Sun Sept 13 A RED-EYED VIREO was heard from the zig zag portion of the floating boardwalk at Swan Lake. A WESTERN KINGBIRD was seen at RPBO. A reminder that RPBO is on DND land and access is restricted. A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Thurs Sept 10 A NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH was seen by the switch back portion of the floating boardwalk at Swan Lake. A WILLET was seen from the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. Wed Sept 9 A Willet was seen again at the foot of Bowker Ave. in Oak Bay. Tues Sept 8 A NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH was seen from the switch back portion of floating boardwalk at Swan Lake. On Monday one was seen near Tues pond. A Willet was seen from the foot of Bowker in Oak Bay. A DUSKY FLYCATCHER was seen in Pemberton Park which is off of Gonzales Ave and Richardson St. Sat Sept 5 A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. A SOLITARY SANDPIPER and a PECTORAL SANDPIPER were seen at MacIntrye Reservoir. A PECTORAL SANDPIPER and a 3 SEMI-PALMATED PLOVERS were seen at Wittys Lagoon. Hundreds of SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 10 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS, 1 SHORT-TAILED SHEARWATER and 6 FORK-TAILED STORM-PETREL were seen from the MV COHO Thurs Sept 3 A WILLET was seen at the foot of Bowker Ave in Oak Bay. A BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER was seen at Wiffin Spit. A SOLITARY SANDPIPER was seen at MacIntyre Reservoir. A BAIRDS SANDPIPER was seen at Saanichton Spit. A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen on the beach east of Ogden Point. Wed Sept 2 A BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER was seen at Wiffin Spit. 2 BAIRDS SANDPIPERS were see on Saanichton Spit on the east side. Tues Sept 1 A GREEN HERON was seen at Swan Lake Sun Aug 30 400 SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 4 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS, 1 SHORT-TAILED SHEARWATER, 1 NORTHERN FULMAR, 1 FORK-TAILED STORM-PETREL, 2 CASSINS AUCKLETS, 1 TUFTED PUFFIN were seen from the MV COHO ferry in Canadian Waters. 1 RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen with BLACK TURNSTONES on the beach east of Ogden Point near where the stairs go down to the water. Sat Aug 29 RBA for a BROWN BOOBY seen perched on the mast of a fishing boat, for about 4 hrs Sat afternoon from Otter Point to the Sooke Harbour, it then flew towards East Sooke Park. Pictures to posted soon. RBA for a BROWN BOOBY seen off Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon) 7:30 in the evening. A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen on the beach east of Ogden Point below Dallas Rd at Boyd St. 22 RED-NECKED PHALAROPES were seen off the Ogden Point Breakwater. A GREEN HERON was seen on the railing of the floating Boardwalk at Swan Lake. Fri Aug 28 A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen on the beach east of Ogden Point. A CASSINS AUCKLET was seen Clover Point, also there a PARASITIC JAEGER An AMERICAN GLODEN- PLOVER was seen at Albert Head Lagoon. 200 SOOTY SHEARWATERS were seen off Tower Point (Wittys Lagoon) Thurs Aug 27 A RUDDY TURNSTONE was seen with BLACK TURNSTONES on the beach just east of the Ogden Point Breakwater. An AMERICAN GODEN-PLOVER was seen at Albert Head Lagoon. 50 SOOTY SHEARWATERS and 1 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATER were seen from Tower Point(Wittys Lagoon) A SNOW GOOSE was seen at Maber Flats Wed Aug 26 RBA for a MANX SHEARWATER and a SOUTH POLAR SKUA seen from Tower Point(Wittys Lagoon), also there 150 SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 2 NORTHERN FULMARS, 2 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATERS, 2 PARSITC JAEGERS. 90 SOOTY SHEARWATERS , 2 PARASITC JAEGERS and 1 POMARINE JAEGER were seen from Beechy Head in East Sooke Park. Mon Aug 24 A SORA was heard in the southeast part of Rithets Bog Sun Aug 23 RBA for 1 PINK-FOOTED SHEARWATER, also 2 POMARINE JAEGERS, 1 PARASTIC JAEGER, 3 SOOTY SHEARWATERS, 6 NORTHERN FULMARS and 3 SEMIPALMATED PLOVERS were seen from Tower Point(Wittys Lagoon). Also a GOLDEN EAGLE was seen on the trip there. Fri Aug 21 Highlights of birds seen from the MV COHO on a VNHS Trip to Dungeness Spit: A PARASITIC JAEGER and several SOOTY SHEARWATERS were seen on the way out, a POMARINE JAEGER was seen on the way back, all in Canadian waters. Tues Aug 18 There were a small number of RED-NECKED PHALAROPES seen off of Clover Point. 24 COMMON NIGHTHAWKS were seen over the Juan de Fuca Rec Centre Monday Aug 17 2 BANK SWALLOWS were seen at Swan Lake 1 BLACK SWIFT was seen over Hector Rd. Sun Aug 16 Highlights of birds seen from the MV COHO on a VNHS Trip to Cape Flattery. 2 PARASITIC JAEGERS, NORTHERN FULMAR and several RED- NECKED PHALAROPES Sat Aug 15 RBA for a CLAY-COLOURED SPARROW seen where the jogging trail meets the main trail on the southwest side of Swan Lake 1 SOLITARY SANDPIPER AND 1 PECTORAL SANDPIPER were seen at Rithets Bog 6 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS were seen in a ditch along Lockside Trail south of Martindale Rd near the pig farm. Friday Aug 14 6 PECTORAL SANDPIPERS were see along Lockside Trail between Martindale Rd and Dooley Rd. 1 BLACK SWIFT was seen over Portage Inlet Thurs Aug 13 3 BLACK SWIFTS were seen over Sunnygrove Ter. Wed Aug 12 2 BAIRDS SANDPIPERS were seen at Wittys Lagoon also there 2 BLUE-WINGED TEAL. Tues.. Aug. 11 1 TUFTED PUFFIN, 2 BROWN PELICANS, 1 LONG-TAILED JAEGER, 1 CASSINS AUKLET, 5 RED-NECKED PHALAROPES, and 3 ANCIENT MURRELETS were seen off Tower Point. 3 WANDERING TATTLERS were seen between Holland Point and Ogden Point Thursday Aug 6 RBA for a HERMIT WARBLER seen at 4655 Kerryiew Dr, in the Prospect Lake area, birders are welcome, Sun Aug 1 A SOLITARY SANDPIPER was seen at McIntyre Reservoir , also there 9 LONG-BILLED DOWICHERS and 1 LESSER YELLOWLEGS among the 8 species of shorebirds seen. An AMERICAN BITTERN was across the lake from the lollipop boardwalk Sat Aug 1 An AMERICAN BITTERN was seen across the lake from the lollipop boardwalk A WANDERING TATTLER was seen from the Ogden point Breakwater Highlights of a VNHS walk to Esquimalt, Albert head, and Wittys Lagoon were 2 SEMIPALMATED PLOVERS, 4 LESSER YELLOWLEGS, 1 LONG-BILLED DOWICHER and 1 SHORT-BILLED DOWICHER at Wittys Lagoon. 10 species of shorebirds were seen. Thurs. July 30 2 WANDERING TATTLERS were seen off the Ogden Point Breakwater. Wed July 29 A BANK SWALLOW was seen over Swan Lake Tues July 28 RBA A GREEN-TAILED TOWHEE was seen at Tower Point(Whitty's Lagoon). If confirmed this would be the first record for the Victoria checklist. From the clearing go up the hill to the two picnic tables and the two garbage cans. Near by are two port-a-potties. The bird was frequenting this location near the picnic tables at the edge of the forest. Rick Schortinghuis Victoria BC Subject: Nanaimo,Vancouver Island, bird alert--October 18, 2009, From: "backyard_store" <backyard_store AT yahoo.com> Date: Sun, 18 Oct 2009 22:23:30 -0000 report your sightings phone the Store at 250-390-3669 e-mail us at thebackyard AT shaw.ca call the Bird Alert at 250-390-3029 Also check the birdstore blog for the latest bird alerts and updates: www.thebirdstore.blogspot.com Post your sightings on this site: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/bcbirdingvanisland/messages Birds of British Columbia: http://www.geog.ubc.ca/biodiversity/efauna/SpeciesChecklists.html International Birdwatching Guides http://www.guidedbirdwatching.com Birdwatching contacts and information find a local birder to go birdwatching with: http://www.birdingpal.org/ Please remember, when reporting a sighting, to leave your name and phone number, along with the date, name and location of your sighting. Sunday October 18, 2009: The Sunday Bird Walk went to the Shelly Road side of the Englishman River Estuary in Parksville. The morning was cloudy but calm. The highlights included seeing a Sharp-shinned Hawk chasing a Northern Flicker and a Northern Shrike perched on a short bush near the estuary. Black Turnstones and Black-bellied Plovers flew past near the shoreline heading up the Strait of Georgia. We watched a Peregrine Falcon fly from one perch to another. He perched for a few seconds and then with powerful wind beats, he flew off towards the mainland. We soon lost sight of him over the Strait of Georgia. Nineteen birders heard and saw the following fifty-two species of birds: Canada Goose, Greater White-fronted Goose, American Wigeon, Mallard, Harlequin Duck, Bufflehead, Northern Pintail, Green-winged Teal, Surf Scoter, White-winged Scoter, Red-breasted Merganser, Common Merganser, Common Loon, Horned Grebe, Red-necked Grebe, Pelagic Cormorant, Great Blue Heron, Bald Eagle, Merlin, Peregrine Falcon, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Bonaparte's Gull, Mew Gull, California Gull, Thayer's Gull, Glaucous-winged Gull, Black-bellied Plover, Black Turnstone, Killdeer, California Quail, Belted Kingfisher, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Downy Woodpecker, Pileated Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Northern Shrike, Northwestern Crow, Common Raven, Chestnut-backed Chickadee, Red-breasted Nuthatch, Brown Creeper, Golden-crowned Kinglet, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Bushtit, Bewick's Wren, American Robin, European Starling, Spotted Towhee, Brewer's Blackbird, Fox Sparrow, Song Sparrow, Golden-crowned Sparrow, Savannah Sparrow, House Finch, Dark-eyed Junco, Red Crossbill and House Sparrow. Tuesday October 13: The Tuesday Bird Walk went to the Shelly Road side of the Englishman River Estuary in Parksville. The morning was cloudy and the winds were calm however a shower finished off the morning. The highlights included seeing Varied Thrush just ahead of us on the trail and in the trees along the trail. We came across about one thousand American Robins in the forest and estuary throughout the morning. There was a Hermit Thrush in the brushes near the trail. A Northern Shrike landed on a bush not thirty feet front us giving us incredible looks. We saw a Peregrine Falcon preening itself in a tall fir tree on the west side of the forest. The Falcon left the perch twice and flew towards the Straight of Georgia only to return to the perch. When he returned for the second time he perched and looked down at us as if he was people watching. We saw a Merlin chasing a Northern Flicker. We spotted a Fox Sparrow gleaning insects from the leaves on a small bush. Ten birders saw and heard the following forty species of birds: Canada Goose, American Wigeon, Mallard, Harlequin Duck, Surf Scoter, Common Merganser, Common Loon, Horned Grebe, Double-crested Cormorant, Pelagic Cormorant, Great Blue Heron, Bald Eagle, Merlin, Peregrine Falcon, Wilson's Snipe,Bonaparte's Gull, Mew Gull, California Gull, Glaucous-winged Gull, Belted Kingfisher, Hairy Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Northern Shrike, Northwestern Crow, Common Raven, Chestnut-backed Chickadee, Red-breasted Nuthatch, Brown Creeper, Hermit Thrush, American Robin, Varied Thrush, European Starling, Cedar Waxwing, Spotted Towhee, Fox Sparrow, Song Sparrow, Golden-crowned Sparrow, Purple Finch, House Finch and Red Crossbill. Sunday October 11: One hundred and fourteen Pacific Loons were seen off Yellow Point in Cedar. For further information on these sightings or for help in identifying a bird please call The Backyard Wildbird and Nature Store AT 250-390-3669 Toll Free AT 1-888-249-4145 e-mail: thebackyard AT shaw.ca ********************************** Arrowsmith Naturalists Guest speaker, Michele Deakin, local biologist, will give an update on eelgrass beds. Monday October 26, 2009 AT 7:30 pm. Springwood School Parksville ********************************** The Nanoose Naturalists Thursday November 12, 2009 AT 7:00 pm Nanoose Library, Nanoose Bay ********************************** Everyone is welcome to join us for a 2-3 hour bird walk on the Sunday and Tuesday mornings. We leave from the Store at 9 A.M. Sunday Mornings and go to a different location in and around Nanaimo and from the Parksville Beach Community Park at 9 A.M. on Tuesdays and go to different areas in and around the Oceanside area. ************************************************************** The Tuesday Bird Walk on October 20, 2009 will be going to Columbia Beach. Meet at the Parksville Beach Community Park near the parking area at the Lion's Playground at 9:00 A.M. or the parking area off Admiral Tyron Boulevard ***************************************************** The Sunday Bird Walk on October 25 will be going to the Nanaimo River Estuary. Meet at the Birdstore at 9:00 A.M. or the end of Raines Road at about 9:30A.M. ******************************************************* Good birding Neil Robins THE BACKYARD Wildbird & Nature Store 6314 Metral Drive, Nanaimo, BC V9T 2L8 250.390.3669 250.390.1633 fax thebackyard AT shaw.ca CHECK OUT OUR BLOG---> www.thebirdstore.blogspot.com Subject: Sunday bird walk, Nanaimo, Vancouver Island, October 18, 2009 From: "backyard_store" <backyard_store AT yahoo.com> Date: Sun, 18 Oct 2009 21:39:14 -0000 Hi birders, Sunday October 18, 2009: The Sunday Bird Walk went to the Shelly Road side of the Englishman River Estuary in Parksville. The morning was cloudy but calm. The highlights included seeing a Sharp-shinned Hawk chasing a Northern Flicker and a Northern Shrike perched on a short bush near the estuary. Black Turnstones and Black-bellied Plovers flew past near the shoreline heading up the Strait of Georgia. We watched a Peregrine Falcon fly from one perch to another. He perched for a few seconds and then with powerful wind beats, he flew off towards the mainland. We soon lost sight of him over the Strait of Georgia. Nineteen birders heard and saw the following fifty-two species of birds: Canada Goose, Greater White-fronted Goose, American Wigeon, Mallard, Harlequin Duck, Bufflehead, Northern Pintail, Green-winged Teal, Surf Scoter, White-winged Scoter, Red-breasted Merganser, Common Merganser, Common Loon, Horned Grebe, Red-necked Grebe, Pelagic Cormorant, Great Blue Heron, Bald Eagle, Merlin, Peregrine Falcon, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Bonaparte's Gull, Mew Gull, California Gull, Thayer's Gull, Glaucous-winged Gull, Black-bellied Plover, Black Turnstone, Killdeer, California Quail, Belted Kingfisher, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Downy Woodpecker, Pileated Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Northern Shrike, Northwestern Crow, Common Raven, Chestnut-backed Chickadee, Red-breasted Nuthatch, Brown Creeper, Golden-crowned Kinglet, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Bushtit, Bewick's Wren, American Robin, European Starling, Spotted Towhee, Brewer's Blackbird, Fox Sparrow, Song Sparrow, Golden-crowned Sparrow, Savannah Sparrow, House Finch, Dark-eyed Junco, Red Crossbill and House Sparrow. Good birding Neil Robins Nanaimo British Columbia Subject: Re: mystery bird From: "michelle.calgary AT ymail.com" <michelle.calgary@gmail.com> Date: Fri, 16 Oct 2009 15:31:33 -0000 thank you!! --- In bcbirdingvanisland AT yahoogroups.com, "canadianrobin2003" wrote: > > Hi Michelle, > > The bird is a Gull.. I think probably a immature Thayer's Gull. > > The photo matches the 36.19 Second-cycle Thayer's Gull on page 267 in the Peterson Reference Guides, Gulls of the Americas, by Steve N.G. Howell/Jon Dunn, 2007. > > Cheers > Neil Robins > Parksville > British Columbia > > --- In bcbirdingvanisland AT yahoogroups.com, "michelle.calgary AT " wrote: > > > > > > That was last Saturday. I also saw one more that do not know what it is: > > > > click here for photo of unknown bird... > > > link> > > > > thanks! > > > > > > --- In bcbirdingvanisland AT yahoogroups.com, "canadianrobin2003" > > wrote: > > > > > > Hi Michelle, > > > > > > Good sighting and great photo. When did you see this Godwit in Port > > Hardy? > > > > > > Cheers > > > Neil Robins > > > Parksvillr > > > British Columbia > > > > > > --- In bcbirdingvanisland AT yahoogroups.com, "michelle.calgary AT " > > michelle.calgary AT wrote: > > > > > > > > > > > > Marbled Godwit > > > > > > > \ > > > > link> seen in Port Hardy. If I'm wrong with bird ID please let me > > > > know. > > > > > > > > Michelle. > > > > > > > > > > Subject: the location for the bird walk From: "michelle.calgary AT ymail.com" <michelle.calgary@gmail.com> Date: Fri, 16 Oct 2009 03:06:21 -0000 Thank you for finding the gull! Sunday I have the time to make it to Parksville - I can find the park but any advice where exactlly to go to see the most birds? do you normally go very early on Tuesdays or would I still see something in the afternoon? Thanks again! --- In bcbirdingvanisland AT yahoogroups.com, "canadianrobin2003" wrote: > > Hi Michelle, > > The bird is a Gull.. I think probably a immature Thayer's Gull. > > The photo matches the 36.19 Second-cycle Thayer's Gull on page 267 in the Peterson Reference Guides, Gulls of the Americas, by Steve N.G. Howell/Jon Dunn, 2007. > > Cheers > Neil Robins > Parksville > British Columbia > > --- In bcbirdingvanisland AT yahoogroups.com, "michelle.calgary AT " wrote: > > > > > > That was last Saturday. I also saw one more that do not know what it is: > > > > click here for photo of unknown bird... > > > link> > > > > thanks! > > > > > > --- In bcbirdingvanisland AT yahoogroups.com, "canadianrobin2003" > > wrote: > > > > > > Hi Michelle, > > > > > > Good sighting and great photo. When did you see this Godwit in Port > > Hardy? > > > > > > Cheers > > > Neil Robins > > > Parksvillr > > > British Columbia > > > > > > --- In bcbirdingvanisland AT yahoogroups.com, "michelle.calgary AT " > > michelle.calgary AT wrote: > > > > > > > > > > > > Marbled Godwit > > > > > > > \ > > > > link> seen in Port Hardy. If I'm wrong with bird ID please let me > > > > know. > > > > > > > > Michelle. > > > > > > > > > > Subject: Re: mystery bird From: "canadianrobin2003" <nmrobins AT telus.net> Date: Thu, 15 Oct 2009 16:58:54 -0000 Hi Michelle, The bird is a Gull.. I think probably a immature Thayer's Gull. The photo matches the 36.19 Second-cycle Thayer's Gull on page 267 in the Peterson Reference Guides, Gulls of the Americas, by Steve N.G. Howell/Jon Dunn, 2007. Cheers Neil Robins Parksville British Columbia --- In bcbirdingvanisland AT yahoogroups.com, "michelle.calgary AT ..." wrote: > > > That was last Saturday. I also saw one more that do not know what it is: > > click here for photo of unknown bird... > link> > > thanks! > > > --- In bcbirdingvanisland AT yahoogroups.com, "canadianrobin2003" > wrote: > > > > Hi Michelle, > > > > Good sighting and great photo. When did you see this Godwit in Port > Hardy? > > > > Cheers > > Neil Robins > > Parksvillr > > British Columbia > > > > --- In bcbirdingvanisland AT yahoogroups.com, "michelle.calgary AT " > michelle.calgary AT wrote: > > > > > > > > > Marbled Godwit > > > > \ > > > link> seen in Port Hardy. If I'm wrong with bird ID please let me > > > know. > > > > > > Michelle. > > > > > > Subject: Re: MARBLED GODWIT From: "michelle.calgary AT ymail.com" <michelle.calgary@gmail.com> Date: Thu, 15 Oct 2009 05:54:21 -0000 That was last Saturday. I also saw one more that do not know what it is: click here for photo of unknown bird... thanks! --- In bcbirdingvanisland AT yahoogroups.com, "canadianrobin2003" wrote: > > Hi Michelle, > > Good sighting and great photo. When did you see this Godwit in Port Hardy? > > Cheers > Neil Robins > Parksvillr > British Columbia > > --- In bcbirdingvanisland AT yahoogroups.com, "michelle.calgary AT " michelle.calgary AT wrote: > > > > > > Marbled Godwit > > > link> seen in Port Hardy. If I'm wrong with bird ID please let me > > know. > > > > Michelle. > > > Subject: Re: MARBLED GODWIT From: "canadianrobin2003" <nmrobins AT telus.net> Date: Wed, 14 Oct 2009 17:13:20 -0000 Hi Michelle, Good sighting and great photo. When did you see this Godwit in Port Hardy? Cheers Neil Robins Parksvillr British Columbia --- In bcbirdingvanisland AT yahoogroups.com, "michelle.calgary AT ..." wrote: > > > Marbled Godwit > link> seen in Port Hardy. If I'm wrong with bird ID please let me > know. > > Michelle. > Subject: Parksville/Qualicum Beach Tuesday bird walk, October 13, 2009 From: "canadianrobin2003" <nmrobins AT telus.net> Date: Wed, 14 Oct 2009 17:07:49 -0000 The Tuesday Bird Walk went to the Shelly Road side of the Englishman River Estuary in Parksville. The morning was cloudy and the winds were calm however a shower finished off the morning. The highlights included seeing Varied Thrush just ahead of us on the trail and in the trees along the trail. We came across about one thousand American Robins in the forest and estuary throughout the morning. There was a Hermit Thrush in the brushes near the trail. A Northern Shrike landed on a bush not thirty feet front us giving us incredible looks. We saw a Peregrine Falcon preening itself in a tall fir tree on the west side of the forest. The Falcon left the perch twice and flew towards the Straight of Georgia only to return to the perch. When he returned for the second time he perched and looked down at us as if he was people watching. We saw a Merlin chasing a Northern Flicker. We spotted a Fox Sparrow gleaning insects from the leaves on a small bush. Ten birders saw and heard the following forty species of birds: Canada Goose American Wigeon Mallard Harlequin Duck Surf Scoter Common Merganser Common Loon Horned Grebe Double-crested Cormorant Pelagic Cormorant Great Blue Heron Bald Eagle Merlin Peregrine Falcon Wilson's Snipe Bonaparte's Gull Mew Gull California Gull Glaucous-winged Gull Belted Kingfisher Hairy Woodpecker Northern Flicker Northern Shrike Northwestern Crow Common Raven Chestnut-backed Chickadee Red-breasted Nuthatch Brown Creeper Hermit Thrush American Robin Varied Thrush European Starling Cedar Waxwing Spotted Towhee Fox Sparrow Song Sparrow Golden-crowned Sparrow Purple Finch House Finch Red Crossbill Good birding Neil Robins Parksville British Columbia Subject: MARBLED GODWIT From: "michelle.calgary AT ymail.com" <michelle.calgary@gmail.com> Date: Wed, 14 Oct 2009 07:11:08 -0000 Marbled Godwit seen in Port Hardy. If I'm wrong with bird ID please let me know. Michelle. Subject: Parksville/Qualicum Beach Tuesday bird walk, October 13, 2009 From: "canadianrobin2003" <nmrobins AT telus.net> Date: Wed, 14 Oct 2009 02:54:35 -0000 Hi birders, The Tuesday bird walk went to the Shelly Road side of the Englishman River Estuary in Parksville. The morning was cloudy, the winds calm with a shower to finish the morning. Th highlights included seeing a Varied Thrush ahead of us along the trail, with other Varied Thrush in the trees with American Robins. We entountered about one thousand American Robins in the forest and estuary throughout the morning. We came upon a Hermit Thrush in a brush near the trail. We saw a Peregrine Falcon preening itself in a tall fir tree on the west side of the forest, the Falcon left the perch and flew towards the Straight of Georgia only to return to its perch, after a time the Falcon again left its perch and returned and looked down at us as if he was people watching. We saw a Merlin chasing a Northern Flicker. We spotted a Fox Sparrow gleening insects from the leaves on a small bush. Ten birders saw and heard the following forty species of birds: Canada Goose American Wigeon Mallard Harlequin Duck Surf Scoter Common Merganser Common Loon Horned Grebe Double-crested Cormorant Pelagic Cormorant Great Blue Heron Bald Eagle Merlin Peregrine Falcon Wilson's Snipe Bonaparte's Gull Mew Gull California Gull Glaucous-winged Gull Belted Kingfisher Hairy Woodpecker Northern Flicker Northern Shrike Northwestern Crow Common Raven Chestnut-backed Chickadee Red-breasted Nuthatch Brown Creeper Hermit Thrush American Robin Varied Thrush European Starling Cedar Waxwing Spotted Towhee Fox Sparrow Song Sparrow Golden-crowned Sparrow Purple Finch House Finch Red Crossbill Good birding Neil Robins Parksville British Columbia