Birdingonthe.NetRecent Postings from
> Home > Mail |
Stub-tailed Spadebill,©Sophie Webb |
|
11 May NOGA [Lee Snyder ] 11 May Vero Beach warblers [Diane Reed ] 11 May St. Augustine - strong west winds birding [Diane Reed ] 11 May St. Augustine - strong west winds birding [] 10 May Flight of Bobolink 4/10/08 [] 10 May Mid Pinellas owls [Judy Fisher ] 9 May Re: Peeps and Fish Crows [Meret Wilson ] 9 May Lori Wilson Park 5/9/08 [] 9 May Peeps and Fish Crows [David Hartgrove ] 9 May Tall Timbers Bird Window [CK Borg ] 9 May Pectoral Sandpipers? [Lucy and Bob Duncan ] 7 May Great Cormorant. Continues. North Jetty. Ponce Inlet. Volusia Co. [Michael Brothers ] 7 May No Subject [Lee Snyder ] 7 May Great White Heron - Vierra Wetlands [] 7 May Great Blue Heron white morph phase - Viera Wetlands [] 6 May 5/6/08--White-rumped Sandpiper, Merritt Island NWR [Christian Newton ] 6 May Connecticut Warbler [Murray Gardler ] 6 May Antillean Nighthawks and Tortuga rarities ["Jonathan Heller." ] 6 May more Swallowtails [Judy or Ray Smart ] 6 May May 20th REKN survey ["prlearybellsouth.net" ] 5 May St. Joseph Peninsula State Park sitings [Laura Lewis-Tuffin ] 5 May Mystery Thrush [Paul ] 5 May Swallow-tailed Kite NPR [Judy or Ray Smart ] 5 May Horned Grebes in Weekiwachee Preserve [Bev Hansen ] 5 May Re: Screech-Owl coloring [Jeff Bouton ] 4 May Panhandle fallouts [Lucy and Bob Duncan ] 4 May Fulvous Whistling-Ducks & Bobolinks [Jill Kaminski ] 4 May Re: Volusia County Landfill, New Rules [Meret Wilson ] 4 May Re: [FLBIRDS] Volusia County Landfill, New Rules [Meret Wilson ] 4 May SW Englewood Migrants [Susan ] 4 May Green Key ( NPR West Pasco) [Judy or Ray Smart ] 3 May RFI Pensacola [John Thomton ] 3 May Re: Volusia County Landfill, New Rules [Robert Wallace ] 3 May Roosevelt Wetlands Pinellas County [Don Margeson ] 4 May Volusia County Landfill, New Rules ["dotrobbins AT juno.com" ] 3 May Peacock's Pocket Road- MINWR - Bobolinks [] 3 May Fulvous Whistling-Ducks -- Naples, Collier County [Vincent Lucas ] 3 May Fulvous Whistling-Ducks -- Naples, Collier County [Vincent Lucas ] 3 May Re: [BRDBRAIN] Volusia County Landfill, New Rules [Wes Biggs ] 3 May Re: Screech-Owl coloring [Marianne Korosy ] 3 May Ft. Desoto 5/2/08 [] 2 May Screech-Owl coloring [Judy Fisher ] 2 May Celery Fields - 5/2/08 [Susan ] 2 May Mystery Sandpiper [Marvin Collins ] 1 May Re: [BRDBRAIN] Volusia County Landfill, New Rules [Robert Wallace ] 1 May Red-footed Booby and Black Noddy, Dry Tortugas NP [David Goodwin ] 1 May RFI: Antillean Nighthawk ["Jonathan Heller." ] 1 May No Subject ["Jonathan Heller." ] 1 May An Uninvited Houseguest ["prlearybellsouth.net" ] 1 May Volusia County Landfill, New Rules [David Hartgrove ] 1 May St. Augustine Gray Kingbirds [Diane Reed ] 01 May St. Augustine Gray Kingbirds [] Subject: NOGA From: Lee Snyder <lee.snyder2 AT verizon.net> Date: Sun, 11 May 2008 19:29:41 -0400 hey y'all, Hi winds while crossing Tampa bay over the Skyway bridge brought in a late Northern Gannet (imm) and several Mag. Frigatebirds. Regards, Lee Snyder St Petersburg ____________________________________________________________________________ FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information: Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm Member photos II: see connection on photos I For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.eduSubject: Vero Beach warblers From: Diane Reed <DReedster AT AOL.COM> Date: Sun, 11 May 2008 19:06:01 EDT Forwarded for Billi Wagner in Vero Beach: For the NAMC (IMBD) Saturday in Indian River County. The west wind brought smoke from the Okeechobee fire, so the two weather events may have diverted gulf migrants east toward Sebastian Inlet, where all day long and into the night we had Black-throated Blue, Blackpoll and Am. Redstarts go through. Recall last spring's count in the same spot had the Kirtland's, and many other warbler species. We had one Merlin, -Billi Wagner, Vero Beach thanks diane reed st.augustine, fl **************Wondering what's for Dinner Tonight? Get new twists on family favorites at AOL Food. (http://food.aol.com/dinner-tonight?NCID=aolfod00030000000001) ____________________________________________________________________________ FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information: Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm Member photos II: see connection on photos I For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.eduSubject: St. Augustine - strong west winds birding From: Diane Reed <DReedster AT AOL.COM> Date: Sun, 11 May 2008 17:45:57 EDT Hello all Please let me know if coastal folks had any interesting birds with the strong west winds Saturday and Sunday. During the IMBD on Saturday afternoon, we feel 99% certain we had a Swainson's hawk in flight. The bird was seen in the northern area of the FWC (Fish/Wildlife) portion of the GTMNERR/Guana property on A1A in St. Augustine. It was soaring along the thermals and actively hunting over a treeline and retention pond habitat. It circled several times, but never landed. There were other birds seen such as red-tailed, red-shouldered, kestrel and sharp-shinned hawks as well. We had great comparisons of these raptors. thanks Diane Reed St. Augustine, FL **************Wondering what's for Dinner Tonight? Get new twists on family favorites at AOL Food. (http://food.aol.com/dinner-tonight?NCID=aolfod00030000000001) ____________________________________________________________________________ FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information: Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm Member photos II: see connection on photos I For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.eduSubject: St. Augustine - strong west winds birding From: dreedster AT aol.com Date: Sun, 11 May 2008 17:45:57 EDT Hello all Please let me know if coastal folks had any interesting birds with the strong west winds Saturday and Sunday. During the IMBD on Saturday afternoon, we feel 99% certain we had a Swainson's hawk in flight. The bird was seen in the northern area of the FWC (Fish/Wildlife) portion of the GTMNERR/Guana property on A1A in St. Augustine. It was soaring along the thermals and actively hunting over a treeline and retention pond habitat. It circled several times, but never landed. There were other birds seen such as red-tailed, red-shouldered, kestrel and sharp-shinned hawks as well. We had great comparisons of these raptors. thanks Diane Reed St. Augustine, FL **************Wondering what's for Dinner Tonight? Get new twists on family favorites at AOL Food. (http://food.aol.com/dinner-tonight?NCID=aolfod00030000000001) [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]Subject: Flight of Bobolink 4/10/08 From: bales_d AT BELLSOUTH.NET Date: Sat, 10 May 2008 20:11:17 +0000 Howdy Yall, Just sitting here by the computer waiting on news of a Connecticut Warbler sighting when I ran across this picture of a Bobolink flying. I took it last week in 30+ knot winds. This must be what they do during migration along with other species of birds. Get that wind to their back, and glide saving energy. Look how aerodynamic the body shape is! Birds never cease to amaze me.. www.flickr.com/photos/mudhen/2481396494 Danny Bales Titusville, Fla. www.flickr.com/photos/mudhen/ ____________________________________________________________________________ FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information: Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm Member photos II: see connection on photos I For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.eduSubject: Mid Pinellas owls From: Judy Fisher <e_fisher AT PIPELINE.COM> Date: Sat, 10 May 2008 11:22:18 -0400 I'm taking a break from counting birds for the International Migratory Bird Count. Very few migrants, just 2 Parula and 1 Common Yellowthroat so far, but we count everything. Checked on my Screech-Owl pair. The gray one roosts about 4 days a week in the oak in a spot I can see from my window. I was hoping today would be one of those days so I'd have both for the count. No such luck. But, sitting at the window eating my lunch and hoping I'd see an influx of migrants using my bird bath, I spotted some motion in the very back corner of the yard. This is a dense area the kids call my jungle. A few years ago, I had recycled a mailbox by wedging it into a tree that has spines on it. The mailbox entrance faces away from the house but I could see an eye of the Screech-Owl peeking around the corner. I'll get my reddish Screech-Owl as it turns dark. Another Screech-Owl story to report. While counting Boca, someone told me of a Screech-Owl that was allowing people to walk up to it and pet it. It was a reddish owl and has been taken to the Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary for evaluation. Hope it gets a clean bill of health and can be returned. Judy Judy Fisher Seminole, Fl ____________________________________________________________________________ FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information: Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm Member photos II: see connection on photos I For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.eduSubject: Re: Peeps and Fish Crows From: Meret Wilson <wilsonsplover AT YAHOO.COM> Date: Fri, 9 May 2008 18:42:16 -0700 David et al, The Fish Crows have been doing bizarre things at my bird baths now for 2 years. Certain items must soak a specific amount of time, other things must be dunked, cleaned, carried off. But what a mess they leave! I have been fascinated with how meticulous they are about different items. Pizza, I have learned, must soak no less than 24 hours...and they do NOT forget they brought the food, either! I am not so sure they are taking this food to babies as they are not nesting yet in my 'hood. I am thinking it all has to do with courting activities, here at least. Meret Wilson Ormond --- David HartgroveSubject: Lori Wilson Park 5/9/08 From: bales_d AT BELLSOUTH.NET Date: Fri, 9 May 2008 22:16:34 +0000 Howdy Yall, Went to Lori Wilson Park in Cocoa Beach this morning. I saw more warblers there than I've seen on the entire Refuge in a month. Not to say there were a lot, but a lot compared to the Refuge. I had Redstarts (females, immature males, male), Black-throated Blue (female), Common Yellow Throat (female, and male), Blackpoll (female, and male), Cape May (female), and a Northern Parula (female). It was great just seeing some warblers!!! I photographed the Redstarts, and got some nice shots. I need the practice, because I'm going to North Carolina next Friday for 20 species of warblers on territory!!!! I should be able to get them all. too. I'm excited about that trip! www.flickr.com/photos/mudhen/2478536111 www.flickr.com/photos/mudhen/2479347906 www.flickr.com/photos/mudhen/2478535739 www.flickr.com/photos/mudhen/2478534787 www.flickr.com/photos/mudhen/2478537701 www.flickr.com/photos/mudhen/2479349314 www.flickr.com/photos/mudhen/2478536607 Danny Bales Titusville, Fla. www.flickr.com/photos/mudhen ____________________________________________________________________________ FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information: Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm Member photos II: see connection on photos I For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.eduSubject: Peeps and Fish Crows From: David Hartgrove <birdman9 AT EARTHLINK.NET> Date: Fri, 9 May 2008 17:29:34 -0400 Hi All, I stopped by Port Orange Causeway Park (one of the newest stops on the GFBT) this afternoon. The retention pond on the north side of the bridge had been choked with cat tails for the past year. Recently the city brought in a back hoe to clear the plants. The exposed muddy bottom was a real hit with 5 Least Sandpipers and a Semi-palmated Plover. It will be a place to watch when doing the Spring Migration Count tomorrow. Then when I got home, my wife told me of a strange event she watched unfold at the back yard birdbath. A Fish Crow flew in and landed on the side of the birdbath carrying what appeared to be a large, recently dispatched brown anole. She grabbed the binoculars and watched as the crow proceeded to skin and decapitate the lizard. The the bird carefully tore the carcass into strips, soaking each in the water. It then collected the strips in Puffin like fashion along the sides of its beak, took one more gulp of water and flew off, presumably to feed its hungry nestlings. David Hartgrove Daytona Beach, FL ____________________________________________________________________________ FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information: Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm Member photos II: see connection on photos I For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.eduSubject: Tall Timbers Bird Window From: CK Borg <ckborg AT HOTMAIL.COM> Date: Fri, 9 May 2008 18:24:13 +0000 Folks,Just wanted to let everyone know that the feeders at Tall Timbers will be
off-line for the summer (Through Labor day). Regardless, you are always more
than welcome to bird TTRS. However, be advised that we recently burned the
majority of habitats along and around the Stevenson Trail and Bird Window. This
being said I was still able to string together a descent list of 50 species the
other day... The highlight was Least Bittern. During the summer months (Mid May
through August) birding is best from predawn to about 10:00 am.Good Birds,C.K.
Borg{ckborg AT hotmail.com}Tall Timbers / Tallahassee
_________________________________________________________________
With Windows Live for mobile, your contacts travel with you.
http://www.windowslive.com/mobile/overview.html?ocid=TXT_TAGLM_WL_Refresh_mobile_052008
____________________________________________________________________________
FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information:
Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm
Member photos II: see connection on photos I
For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html
Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail
Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.edu
Subject: Pectoral Sandpipers?From: Lucy and Bob Duncan <town_point AT BELLSOUTH.NET> Date: Fri, 9 May 2008 07:17:11 -0500 We have not found Pectoral Sandpipers at "our" normal places here in NW Florida nor coastal Alabama. Have they shown up in normal numbers in the rest of Florida, and if so where? Normal numbers? ____________________________________________________________________________ FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information: Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm Member photos II: see connection on photos I For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.eduSubject: Great Cormorant. Continues. North Jetty. Ponce Inlet. Volusia Co. From: Michael Brothers <mbrothers AT CO.VOLUSIA.FL.US> Date: Wed, 7 May 2008 15:21:46 -0400 Sorry for the late post. Yesterday, 5/6/08, I again found the Great Cormorant on the rocks of the North Jetty, Ponce Inlet, Volusia County. Despite the fact the winds were very gentle, it had abandoned its old post on top of the tower at the end of the jetty and was content to sit on the rocks with the pelicans. I was surprised to see that the bird was still here. Michael Michael Brothers Marine Science Center Ponce Inlet ____________________________________________________________________________ FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information: Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm Member photos II: see connection on photos I For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.eduSubject: No Subject From: Lee Snyder <lee.snyder2 AT verizon.net> Date: Wed, 7 May 2008 14:14:36 -0400 test Regards, Lee Snyder St Petersburg ____________________________________________________________________________ FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information: Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm Member photos II: see connection on photos I For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.eduSubject: Great White Heron - Vierra Wetlands From: bales_d AT BELLSOUTH.NET Date: Wed, 7 May 2008 12:32:08 +0000 Howdy Yall, William Brennan sent me a link to a photograph of the Great White Heron he found at Viera Wetlands on the 5th of May. I've never seen one there before. Also I created some chaos with my original post on the bird. By using the word "phase" I confused some people. It's the white morph of a Great Blue Heron. I apologize for my mistake. You can view the bird on Bill's site at www.flickr.com/photos/25717720 AT N03/2473461840/ Danny Bales Titusville, Fla. ____________________________________________________________________________ FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information: Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm Member photos II: see connection on photos I For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.eduSubject: Great Blue Heron white morph phase - Viera Wetlands From: bales_d AT BELLSOUTH.NET Date: Wed, 7 May 2008 03:39:47 +0000 Howdy Yall, I heard from William Brennan who located a Great Blue Heron white morph phase at Viera Wetlands on 5/5/08. He said that he "went down the right hand road then took the left past the observation platform, and found it in the first cell on the right." He sent a photograph with his email, and he is correct with his identification. A very nice bird. I can't put the photograph on my site, because he sent it not as an attachment. Danny Bales Titusville, Fla. ____________________________________________________________________________ FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information: Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm Member photos II: see connection on photos I For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.eduSubject: 5/6/08--White-rumped Sandpiper, Merritt Island NWR From: Christian Newton <cnewton2 AT HUGHES.NET> Date: Tue, 6 May 2008 23:22:13 -0400 Hey all, I got a report of a Baird's Sandpiper in the Shiloh Marsh area, so I headed out to try to see it. I got onto Shiloh Road which maybe just a local name or this is what the road is called when it crosses over into Volusia County, but either way I turned onto Oak Tree Road to get to the marshy area (which is located right before the big radar ball if your heading north bound on route 3). For the most part the drive was uneventful until after the fancy looking tower (weather tower). Just after the tower was a large open mud flat, there were several shorebirds in here, but no Baird's. I drove for another mile or so and came to another large muddy area. In this mud flat I observed a large, long winged peep foraging with the scores of Semi-palmated and Least Sandpipers. Only thing about this peep was it had nice White Rump. White-rumped Sandpiper! I was actually hoping to see one today so I was happy about the find. Oh yah I also found a Tom Dunkerton, who also got to see the White-rump. So it was a fun evening in the Shiloh marsh area, even though we weren't able to re-locate the Baird's. There is definitely a lot of good habitat for a Baird's to be in, so it's worth the look. I checked Bio-lab and Peacock cove, pretty much the usual suspects. There is still some really nice Stilt Sandpipers still in the Peacock cove area. 18 species of shorebirds for the evening. Highlights: Clapper Rail (heard) Bobwhite Quail- 2 Reddish Egret- 10 BB Plover- 20 Semi-pal Plover- 100+ Spotted Sandpiper-6 Semi-pal Sandpiper- 30 (probably more) Least Sandpiper-1,000 (probably more) Western Sandpiper- 2 (I'm sure more) White-rumped Sandpiper- 1 Dunlin- 200 (or so) Stilt Sandpiper- 30 (all on Peacock Pockets Cove area) L. Dowitcher- 1 S. Dowitcher- 1 Dowitcher species- a bunch Bobolink- 30 (grassy area along the road to Peacock pocket) Have a good one, Chris Newton Davenport ____________________________________________________________________________ FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information: Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm Member photos II: see connection on photos I For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.eduSubject: Connecticut Warbler From: Murray Gardler <mangrovefirst AT TAMPABAY.RR.COM> Date: Tue, 6 May 2008 19:10:40 -0400 Carl Goodrich's last day in Key West until fall ended at Fort Zachary Taylor with 17 species of warblers including the subject warbler. Murray Gardler Brooksville, FL ____________________________________________________________________________ FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information: Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm Member photos II: see connection on photos I For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.eduSubject: Antillean Nighthawks and Tortuga rarities From: "Jonathan Heller." <jonathan.heller AT COMCAST.NET> Date: Tue, 6 May 2008 22:57:52 +0000 Thank you so much to everyone who responded with suggestions on finding Antillean Nighthawks. I ended up trying for them at the Key West airport on May 5. Two birds came out around 7:30 p.m. and were actively calling and flying around. They were joined by a Common Nighthawk which was also calling. Today I was on the day trip out to the Tortugas. The Black Noddy was very cooperative on the coaling docks and the Red-footed Booby was present on the usual roost on Long Key. It was there from at least 1:00 p.m. on. Some reports said that it only comes in during the evening, but some people I talked to there said it has been there at various times throughout the day. Songbirds present included Bay-breasted Warbler, Yellow-breasted Chat and Summer Tanager among many others. Regards, Jonathan Heller Lebanon, PA ____________________________________________________________________________ FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information: Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm Member photos II: see connection on photos I For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.eduSubject: more Swallowtails From: Judy or Ray Smart <judenray2 AT YAHOO.COM> Date: Tue, 6 May 2008 15:02:24 -0400 Hi all,
At the West Pasco Government Center in New Port Richey today I walked
out of the Govt Building and looked up to see 3 Swallow-tailed Kites
circling round and round as a group, perhaps a family?
Good birding,
Ray Smart
New Port Richey, FL
judenray2 AT yahoo.com
____________________________________________________________________________
FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information:
Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm
Member photos II: see connection on photos I
For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html
Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail
Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.edu
Subject: May 20th REKN surveyFrom: "prlearybellsouth.net" <prleary AT BELLSOUTH.NET> Date: Tue, 6 May 2008 12:12:46 -0400 The Red Knot international research group is seeking volunteers to conduct a single day REKN census at key sites along the Atlantic coast. Sites of historic significance in NE Florida include: Anastasia Island and Matanzas inlet. One or two people at both of these sites should be sufficient to make observations. Sites in Duval County are surveyed and monitored continuously, but an observer in Huguenot Park would be helpful. The target date is May 20 with May 21 as a make up day if inclement weather prohibits a count on the 20th. If you are an experienced and confident shorebird observer and can participate on this date please contact Mandy (Amanda) Dey with NJ Wildlife. Amanda.Dey AT DEP.state.NJ.US Observations elsewhere along Florida's east coast are also welcome and any REKN sightings collected on May 20th should be reported to Mandy. Doris and Pat Leary, Fernandina Beach, Nassau County ____________________________________________________________________________ FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information: Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm Member photos II: see connection on photos I For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.eduSubject: St. Joseph Peninsula State Park sitings From: Laura Lewis-Tuffin <laurajlt1 AT YAHOO.COM> Date: Mon, 5 May 2008 16:45:20 -0700 I got out of the city this past weekend for a few days of camping/kayaking/nature-watching at St. Joseph Peninsula State Park (on the panhandle - south of Tallahassee) It was my first visit there and was quite enjoyable (despite the abundance of black flies). Picked up a "lifer" (Snowy Plover). Trip list is below - birds that are identified only at the species level are because either I didn't get a good enough look or I didn't have my binoculars or field guide available to be sure of the id. I was shocked by the lack of gulls - I saw a grand total of TWO over the course of three days. Terns were also suprisingly absent (though there were more than 2). Finally - not included on the list is the 4 swallow-tailed kites which were observed today at mile 248 on I-10. They were two groups of 3 birds each that seemed to be hanging around in the sky near each other - 4 were definitely SwTKs - I couldn't see the remaining 2 birds well enough to identify them. Snowy Plover Black Bellied Plover Whillet Sanderling Dunlin Ruddy Turnstone Least Tern Tern Species Gull Species (probably Laughing Gull) Brown Pelican Red bellied Woodpecker Downy Woodpecker Brown-headed Nuthatch Carolina Chickadee Carolina Wren Blue-Gray Gnatcatcher Northern Cardinal Rose-breasted Grosbeak (what's he doing here??) Blue Jay Eastern Towhee Northern Mockingbird Orchard Oriole Common Grackle Boat-tailed Grackle Red-winged Blackbird Mourning Dove Common Ground Dove Fish Crow Snowy Egret Great Egret Great Blue Heron Swallow species I also saw a mockingbird doing a perfect imitation of a Chuck Will's Widow - implying their presence in the park. Good birding! Laura Arlington, Jacksonville ____________________________________________________________________________________ Be a better friend, newshound, and know-it-all with Yahoo! Mobile. Try it now. http://mobile.yahoo.com/;_ylt=Ahu06i62sR8HDtDypao8Wcj9tAcJ ____________________________________________________________________________ FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information: Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm Member photos II: see connection on photos I For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.eduSubject: Mystery Thrush From: Paul <sictransitgloria AT worldnet.att.net> Date: Mon, 5 May 2008 19:07:03 -0400 Each year - about tis week - this yard is visited by a ghostly thrush that only allows itself to be seen in the gloaming light. I thought it was an ovenbird, then a Louisiana. My photos this time leave me uncertain. Peace Paul Francois Holiday, West Pasco Co. http://sicluceatlux.wordpress.com ____________________________________________________________________________ FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information: Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm Member photos II: see connection on photos I For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.eduSubject: Swallow-tailed Kite NPR From: Judy or Ray Smart <judenray2 AT YAHOO.COM> Date: Mon, 5 May 2008 18:03:07 -0400 Hi all,
Driving home from work going south on Little Road in New Port Richey
had a fly-over Swallow-tailed Kite after turning west onto Plathe Road.
Perhaps they are nesting in the area?
Good birding,
Ray Smart
New Port Richey, FL
judenray2 AT yahoo.com
____________________________________________________________________________
FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information:
Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm
Member photos II: see connection on photos I
For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html
Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail
Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.edu
Subject: Horned Grebes in Weekiwachee PreserveFrom: Bev Hansen <bevalhansen AT EARTHLINK.NET> Date: Mon, 5 May 2008 11:28:23 -0400 This morning Al and I found a pair of Horned Grebes in partial breeding plumage in the biggest lake in Weekiwachee Preserve (Hernando County). To see these bird, walk in the west entrance off Shoal Line Blvd. and turn right at the fork in the road. The pair were fairly close to the shore, to the right of a sheltered bench. They then moved further right into a cove. To reach this section of the preserve, from the intersection of US-19 and Osowaw in Spring Hill (Wal-Mart is on the southwest corner of this intersection), turn west on CR-574, and drive 1.6 miles to Shoal Line Blvd. Turn right and proceed 3.0 miles to the preserve parking lot on the right (across from the Coast Guard building). Bev Hansen Spring Hill, FL bevalhansen AT earthlink.net ____________________________________________________________________________ FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information: Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm Member photos II: see connection on photos I For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.eduSubject: Re: Screech-Owl coloring From: Jeff Bouton <jbouton2 AT YAHOO.COM> Date: Mon, 5 May 2008 07:24:13 -0700 Judy, Presumably it is the female who sits in the box as she does the majority of care for young incubation, brooding, feeding, etc. In direct comparison the female bird will be notably larger than the male so you should be able to confirm near dusk when the male brings prey in to the female who will then feed the chicks (as the young get larger both will feed and the "kids" will be at the entrance hole waiting. Last year I had a pair of gray birds, and until 2 weeks ago had a Flying Squirrel in my box, but now have a pair of owls with the same mix as you male gray, female red. If your bird is in the box mouth throughout the day, then your box already has decent-sized chicks. I'm a good month behind but that gives us at least two potential broods with the same color morphs, it will be interesting to compare results. There is an older screech owl monograph put out some years ago that shows that while "red" birds are EXTREMELY rare in the northern areas, they become far more common in the southern US. I'll see if I can find it to offer a better reference. One other note though, before moving to FL, I noted only very gray (lead colored basally) or VERY red (brighter than brick colored) birds. However, here in the deep south I see a lot of birds I consider intermediate and note that Sibley depicts a "brown" adult in his field guide to birds. In fairness, mine is more of a brownish red than a bright brick red bird. How about yours? RED-red or brownish? Best, Jeff Bouton Port Charlotte, FL jbouton2 AT earthlink.net Marianne KorosySubject: Panhandle fallouts From: Lucy and Bob Duncan <town_point AT BELLSOUTH.NET> Date: Sun, 4 May 2008 16:05:01 -0500 HI all, This has been one of the best spring migrations in memory (best for birders, at least), with five significant fallouts, every one falling on a weekend, to the delight of the working folks of extreme NW FL and the Alabama coasts! Now that it's over, it's going to be hard to adjust to ho-hum birding. The highlight of the season was an INCA DOVE which Lucy and I found on 19 April at Ft. Morgan, AL, a first state record only about 35 miles from the state line. This species has been expected, as it has been found as close as Grand Isle, LA. and in MS, so take a second look at those Ground-Doves, sooner or later one will be found in FL, probably (but not necessarily) in the Panhandle. We were forlorn years ago to "lose" the Inca Doves we saw at Frances Hames' home in Key West when the committee de-listed it from Florida's official list. So we're on the lookout! Bob & Lucy Duncan Gulf Breeze, Fl. ____________________________________________________________________________ FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information: Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm Member photos II: see connection on photos I For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.eduSubject: Fulvous Whistling-Ducks & Bobolinks From: Jill Kaminski <Kaminski AT surfbirder.com> Date: Sun, 4 May 2008 10:04:40 -0700 Following the tip from Vince Lucas & Alan Murray my husband and I visited Eagle Lakes County Park at 8:30-9:00 a.m. this morning and found the 3 FULVOUS WHISTLING-DUCKS on the east side of the gazebo wetlands feeding in the vegetation. While we were there, we had two groups of BOBOLINKS (5 + 3) that stayed for a few moments then flew off to to the southeast. Also present was one or possibly two BRONZED COWBIRDS. There were many, many other waders and usual suspects at the wetlands. Thanks, Vince, for posting. Jill & David Kaminski Naples, FL ____________________________________________________________________________ FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information: Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm Member photos II: see connection on photos I For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.eduSubject: Re: Volusia County Landfill, New Rules From: Meret Wilson <wilsonsplover AT YAHOO.COM> Date: Sun, 4 May 2008 08:54:46 -0700 I have been birding at the landfill for almost 20 years because, for the first 10 years, I was counting Bald Eagles on a weekly basis for Eagle Watch. As I noted more and more exciting birds out there my local Audubon group starting making annual trips out there. So, the place has been used a birding site for many years. For a number of years Susan Gaze was the environmental specialist for the landfill and was just super in allowing total access to the entire landfill, including up to the top of the "mountains". She would load people up in her jeep and take them out to see the eagles if they wanted. The landfill even put in some dummy pipes for a pair of nesting Northern Rough-winged Swallows so they wouldn't get drowned in the operating water transfer pipes. The landfill folks have always been as accommodating as possible, in my opinion. Since then the administration has had some changes and along with that has been the setting down of rules for everyone's safety. This is a very sue happy society we live in now-a-days and I am sure the regulations are just as much for their protection as for ours. The birds will still come and we will still be allowed to see them and that is the good thing. Meret Wilson Ormond beach --- "dotrobbins AT juno.com"Subject: Re: [FLBIRDS] Volusia County Landfill, New Rules From: Meret Wilson <wilsonsplover AT yahoo.com> Date: Sun, 4 May 2008 08:54:46 -0700 (PDT) I have been birding at the landfill for almost 20 years because, for the first 10 years, I was counting Bald Eagles on a weekly basis for Eagle Watch. As I noted more and more exciting birds out there my local Audubon group starting making annual trips out there. So, the place has been used a birding site for many years. For a number of years Susan Gaze was the environmental specialist for the landfill and was just super in allowing total access to the entire landfill, including up to the top of the "mountains". She would load people up in her jeep and take them out to see the eagles if they wanted. The landfill even put in some dummy pipes for a pair of nesting Northern Rough-winged Swallows so they wouldn't get drowned in the operating water transfer pipes. The landfill folks have always been as accommodating as possible, in my opinion. Since then the administration has had some changes and along with that has been the setting down of rules for everyone's safety. This is a very sue happy society we live in now-a-days and I am sure the regulations are just as much for their protection as for ours. The birds will still come and we will still be allowed to see them and that is the good thing. Meret Wilson Ormond beach --- "dotrobbins AT juno.com"Subject: SW Englewood Migrants From: Susan <susansd AT COMCAST.NET> Date: Sun, 4 May 2008 11:11:58 -0400 Hi all, I went out this morning with no expectations, as the migrating warblers seemed to have come to an end in my neighborhood since the last cold front passed through several days ago. I was pleasantly surprised when I got to the woods across the street, and found a Wood Thrush first, and then a female Blackpoll Warbler. Moving on, I then heard a "plllt", and chased down an Eastern Wood-Pewee. A little flurry of warblers moved through then, and I picked up a male Am. Redstart, a female Cape May, and a male C. Yellowthroat. The Carolina Wren, Pine Warbler, and Great Crested Flycatcher were nearby calling and singing, and overhead a Green Heron shot by. Soon afterwards, a Laughing Gull chased a Bald Eagle right over me, and a few Black Skimmers came barking by on their way to the ICW. Nice start to my day. Susan Daughtrey Englewood, Charlotte County susansd AT comcast.net ____________________________________________________________________________ FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information: Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm Member photos II: see connection on photos I For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.eduSubject: Green Key ( NPR West Pasco) From: Judy or Ray Smart <judenray2 AT YAHOO.COM> Date: Sun, 4 May 2008 08:28:14 -0400 Hi all,
Not much activity at the Green Key funnel this morning, just a few
Redstarts, Prairies, Palms, 1 Catbird, 1 Barn Swallow, and at the beginning
of the boardwalk one Parula. Still one Horned Grebe hanging around off the
observation deck, starting to get its breeding plumage.
Good birding,
Ray Smart
New Port Richey, FL
judenray2 AT yahoo.com
____________________________________________________________________________
FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information:
Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm
Member photos II: see connection on photos I
For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html
Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail
Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.edu
Subject: RFI PensacolaFrom: John Thomton <jthomton AT HOTMAIL.COM> Date: Sat, 3 May 2008 22:15:25 -0500 Hey everyone, So my cousin gets married in Pensacola next Saturday (the 10'th). I'll be arriving Friday late afternoon (driving from Orlando) and leaving Sunday mid-morning. I may not have a ton of time to bird, but that doesn't mean I'm not going to try! The two birds I'm most interested in seeing are Swainson's Warbler (not a lifer - got a brief but identifiable look at Ft. DeSoto in 2007 - but I've never seen one singing) and Broad-Winged Hawk (state bird). I just noticed the post of the Broad-Winged near Tallahassee, and I recall Gallus getting Swainson's Warbler somewhere. I'd prefer to try for both birds around Pensacola. Are they likely or even possible in or near Pensacola, local birders? Gallus, is the Swainson's spot you went to far from I-10? Is the spot on the Birding Trail Guide or in Pranty? Any cool breeders at Ponce De Leon SP this time of year, anyone? How about the Apalachicola bluff area? Is that worth a hike if I have an hour or two? I do have Pranty's guide which I will consult, but I appreciate anyone's advice or opinions to any or all of the above questions. Thanks a lot, and good birding! John Thomton Orlando, Orange Co. _________________________________________________________________ Make Windows Vista more reliable and secure with Windows Vista Service Pack 1. http://www.windowsvista.com/SP1?WT.mc_id=hotmailvistasp1banner ____________________________________________________________________________ FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information: Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm Member photos II: see connection on photos I For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.eduSubject: Re: Volusia County Landfill, New Rules From: Robert Wallace <chnuts AT YAHOO.COM> Date: Sat, 3 May 2008 20:10:25 -0700 Dotty - you clearly do not have the knowledge of how restrictive the new rules are, and how much they limit our ability to view the birds. They severely limit where we can park, and observe from. The gulls at the dump loaf in only a couple of areas, and we are not able to access these places with the ability to effectively observe or photograph these birds for documentation that we once had. I stand by everything I said: I beg future visitors to only go on Sunday, when commercial traffic is minimal. And police those idiots that do not follow the rules, as they jeopardize all of our future ability to be able to visit the dump, period. We do not want to lose this rare and unique opportunity, as has occurred at almost all other dumps in FL and the eastern U.S. Perhaps you should learn more about the restrictions, and consider the consequences of continued abuse more carefully, before pontificating. Bob Wallace Alachua ----- Original Message ---- From: "dotrobbins AT juno.com"Subject: Roosevelt Wetlands Pinellas County From: Don Margeson <Donatdonlo AT AOL.COM> Date: Sat, 3 May 2008 21:05:02 EDT With so many sightings of Bobolinks on the west coast ( Green Key, Celery Fields ). Lorraine and I decided to try Roosevelt Wetlands this afternoon before surveying the Yellow-crowned Night Heron nesting colony at 1st St. and 89th Ave. N. We also stopped at the wetlands along 28th Street across from the Solid Waste to Energy Plant. The bird of the day was a life Lincoln's Sparrow who was quite cooperative and allowed a fairly close approach for pictures. Please reply off list for copies. Sadly we were unable to find a single Bobolink but were rewarded with 10 Black-necked Stilt's including 4 sitting on nest's. Killdeer are pairing up to nest as we saw 10. There were 3 Roseate Spoonbills at 28th street including 2 juveniles. We had a rare inland Yellow-crowned Night Heron at Roosevelt and an even rarer for Pinellas, Glossy Ibis at 28th Street. There were many Baby Moorhens about and a female Mottled Duck with 2 large young at 28th Street. A single American Coot was feeding on vegetation at Roosevelt Wetlands. During our YCNH survey we found only 26 nests ( 2 years ago we had 55 ) half of which had chicks. The saddest moment of our survey was the dead Great Blue Heron entangled in monofilament, hanging from a longleaf Pine in George Hedke Park. There are still 2 active GBHE nest's in the park. I saw a female American Redstart and a Pine Warbler during our survey. Back home in the Mangrove Bay neighborhood of NE St. Petersburg, I had time for a 20 minute walk when I got home and saw the following warbler species. 1) American Redstart male 1) Northern Parula male 1) Blackpoll Warbler juvenile 1) Yellow Warbler male ( chased out of a low hedge by a Mockingbird that must have a nest there ) 1) Palm Warbler female 1) Bay-breasted Warbler female 1) Tennessee Warbler male 2) Common Yellowthroat Don Margeson St. Petersburg **************Wondering what's for Dinner Tonight? Get new twists on family favorites at AOL Food. (http://food.aol.com/dinner-tonight?NCID=aolfod00030000000001) ____________________________________________________________________________ FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information: Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm Member photos II: see connection on photos I For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.eduSubject: Volusia County Landfill, New Rules From: "dotrobbins AT juno.com" <dotrobbins@JUNO.COM> Date: Sun, 4 May 2008 00:44:50 GMT Hi Florida birders,
I sure wish someone else had risen to the bait here, but no one has.
First, I don't see the requests from the Volusia landfill folks as a disaster,
or a loss of access, or even a negative statement about birders' behavior.
These are good people running a business. They recognized that birders want
access, and that this is a positive aspect of their operation. And something
they want to continue to allow.
They rose to the occasion by formalizing some rules. Rules to ensure our safety
and avoid interruption to their operation.
Best I can tell, these are the same rules they gave us verbatim when we signed
in. So formalizing the rules is efficient: they don't have to use up personnel
time chatting with each and every birder entering their operation.
Formalizing these rules is also positive in that it makes things clear. I was
at the site 4 times this winter. Twice I was with groups who had gotten
permission for special access. The other 2 times I was with birders who had
been there before, and were able to say: we are allowed here, and here, but not
here. During all 4 visits, we were careful not to abuse our access privilege.
Other birders, from out of state or maybe on their own for the first time,
would not have the benefit of knowing the protocol of where to park and where
to scope from. Yes, they were told when they signed in, but some of this is
ambiguous on the ground in an unfamiliar area. Formalizing the rules--marking
the spots--is a positive thing.
I don't see the formalization of rules, and designation of access/parking
areas, as a negative. They want us to keep coming.
That part was easy; yet I must address this: both Bob W and Wes were vehement
that the birding community, and they personally, were betrayed by birders who
broke the rules. Dave Hartgrove's note, in the first sentence, states this was
the reason for these rules:
"After several of incidents over the past winter, where persons
looking for various gulls exhibited far more enthusiasm than common
sense,..."
I personally don't have evidence of this, actual or hearsay, but I have to
assume the Landfill personnel (and Dave's reporting) is correct: someone/s
messed up. Intentionally or out of ignorance.
Does that deserve all the vitriol? All the (direct quote) "*&^%$%&*! AT "?
Someone may have blundered out of ignorance, or because of the lack of clarity
in the verbal instructions. But what I'm hearing is an opportunity to flag the
whipping boy du jour (no names mentioned, of course), and let the world know
how superior the writer is to the rest of the community.
(Can you read between the lines? Maybe...just maybe those common folk, the ones
w/o connections, aren't good enough birders to be allowed in there...?)
I'm not big on vehemence and venom. I've been at the receiving end of some of
it. I'd like to see a birding community where we help one another, beginner to
high-list chaser. I try to avoid contention, I'm a Libra and a crusader for
fairness, I raised kids and don't care for squabbling. Some folks can only feel
good about themselves when they are putting down others. Pretty transparent.
I don't thing the birding community deserves the lashing. This is a totally
negative message without specifics. Volusia Landfill has posted some rules and
designated some spots for us. This tells me they support our presence and want
to continue it, while minimizing any negative impact on their operation. I
don't see this as a platform to proclaim superiority while stomping down
others.
Landfills attract gulls, have you heard? Guess we didn't need anyone to tell us
that.
I thank both Michael Brothers (the quiet guy) and Wes Biggs for their time and
efforts in helping to set up group visits and representing the scientific and
birding community to the landfill personnel. They bridged the gap for us.
As for some new formalized rules, it's business, not personal, get over it. And
anyone who hints that the birding community should take this personally is
doing a great disservice.
Dotty Robbins
High Springs
____________________________________________________________________________
FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information:
Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm
Member photos II: see connection on photos I
For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html
Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail
Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.edu
Subject: Peacock's Pocket Road- MINWR - BobolinksFrom: bales_d AT BELLSOUTH.NET Date: Sat, 3 May 2008 22:01:07 +0000 Howdy Yall, I was driving Peacock's Pocket road looking at shore birds when I started seeing Bobolinks jumping up in front of me. It's the first ones I've seen outside the controlled area this year. So anyone interested is seeing a FOS Bobolink here your chance... :o) ..... Very handsome bird.... www.flickr.com/photos/mudhen/2461952657 Danny Bales Titusville, Fla. www.flickr.com/photos/mudhen ____________________________________________________________________________ FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information: Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm Member photos II: see connection on photos I For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.eduSubject: Fulvous Whistling-Ducks -- Naples, Collier County From: Vincent Lucas <vplucas AT COMCAST.NET> Date: Sat, 3 May 2008 15:05:48 -0400 All: I received a phone call this morning from Alan Murray who found three Fulvous Whistling-Ducks at Eagle Lakes Community Park here in Naples today. I was able to leave the house for a few minutes to go down to see and photograph them. In over ten years of birding in this county, these are the first Fulvous Whistling-Ducks that I have seen in Collier County and I believe that's true for Alan as well. This is a new species for Eagle Lakes Community Park. They are definitely not common in SW Florida except for places like STA-5 in Hendry County but that isn't exactly SW Florida either. So a big thanks goes out to my buddy Alan Murray for finding these ducks and alerting me to them! You can see a photo of these three Fulvous Whistling-Ducks on my Flickr site. (See the link below in my signature file). In the half- hour or so I had to spend at Eagle Lakes Community Park, I saw one Bronzed Cowbird almost directly across from the gazebo on the ball field next to the chain-linked fence. There probably are other Bronzed Cowbirds in the vicinity as well. Check the Carolina Willows to the right of the gazebo thoroughly. This is about as late a date as I have recorded for Collier County for this species. Birders should be on the lookout for possible nesting. Other nice birds present were one Spotted Sandpiper in breeding plumage, one Lesser Yellowlegs, one Roseate Spoonbill and several Least Terns plying the open waters of one of the impoundments. I'm sure Alan can add to the bird sightings at Eagle Lakes Community Park today. Once again, thanks Alan! Cheers. Vince Vincent Lucas Naples, FL vplucas AT comcast.net http://www.flickr.com/photos/leppyone/ http://www.caloosabirdclub.org ____________________________________________________________________________ FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information: Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm Member photos II: see connection on photos I For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.eduSubject: Fulvous Whistling-Ducks -- Naples, Collier County From: Vincent Lucas <vplucas AT comcast.net> Date: Sat, 3 May 2008 15:05:48 -0400 All: I received a phone call this morning from Alan Murray who found three Fulvous Whistling-Ducks at Eagle Lakes Community Park here in Naples today. I was able to leave the house for a few minutes to go down to see and photograph them. In over ten years of birding in this county, these are the first Fulvous Whistling-Ducks that I have seen in Collier County and I believe that's true for Alan as well. This is a new species for Eagle Lakes Community Park. They are definitely not common in SW Florida except for places like STA-5 in Hendry County but that isn't exactly SW Florida either. So a big thanks goes out to my buddy Alan Murray for finding these ducks and alerting me to them! You can see a photo of these three Fulvous Whistling-Ducks on my Flickr site. (See the link below in my signature file). In the half- hour or so I had to spend at Eagle Lakes Community Park, I saw one Bronzed Cowbird almost directly across from the gazebo on the ball field next to the chain-linked fence. There probably are other Bronzed Cowbirds in the vicinity as well. Check the Carolina Willows to the right of the gazebo thoroughly. This is about as late a date as I have recorded for Collier County for this species. Birders should be on the lookout for possible nesting. Other nice birds present were one Spotted Sandpiper in breeding plumage, one Lesser Yellowlegs, one Roseate Spoonbill and several Least Terns plying the open waters of one of the impoundments. I'm sure Alan can add to the bird sightings at Eagle Lakes Community Park today. Once again, thanks Alan! Cheers. Vince Vincent Lucas Naples, FL vplucas AT comcast.net http://www.flickr.com/photos/leppyone/ http://www.caloosabirdclub.org [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]Subject: Re: [BRDBRAIN] Volusia County Landfill, New Rules From: Wes Biggs <birdsatfnt AT BELLSOUTH.NET> Date: Sat, 3 May 2008 12:30:27 -0400 Hi Bob & All, There is another aspect of inappropriate behavior that negatively impacts all of us & especially those of us who have gone out of our way to help others gain access to the site. Michael Brothers & I helped coordinate, with the good offices of the landfill folks, several large groups of birders who without exception did exactly what was asked of them. Prior to those excursions Michael made contact with the landfill employees several times & even made a special trip over there to speak with the powers that be to assure them that those who would be going in with us would follow the rules to the letter. The requests of the authorities were in all respects perfectly understandable, logical & above all else were instituted with OUR best interests in mind. Of course they don't want us hindering the work out there, but their primary concern was OUR safety. So when some totally self centered, self absorbed horses patute intentionally enters areas that are out of bounds, & then has the colossal nerve to give the authorities a hard time when confronted, it makes all of us look like ungrateful jerks, particularly those of us who gave our collective word that we birders know how to act. Without a doubt it is unfair that those of us who have played by the rules should be penalized for the misdeeds of a few jerks, but what recourse to the authorities have? The vast majority of the employees at the site actually do like us birders & many of them are interested in the birds too! I've talked to a number of the folks out there over the years & have been heartened by the fact that many of them are aware of the fact that what we birders do is also adding to the body of scientific knowledge of the wildlife of the state, & they are proud to help us out & be part of the process. If it's possible to find out the identity of the perpetrator's we should institute a policy of shunning. Our friends in the rural parts of the Keystone State long ago discovered the best way to deal with people who don't give a damn about others, they quite simply have nothing to do with them!! Wes Biggs Orlando Robert Wallace wrote: > Dear Florida Birders - Thank you very much to the few idiots who have cost us access to one of the spots that has produced more rare gulls than have ever been seen before in the history of Florida birding. To all of the rest of the birders who have now had your access restricted, I plead with you to only visit the dump on Sunday, when commercial traffic is limited and the roads are relatively quiet. The actions of a few *&^%$%&*! AT have robbed the rest of us the opportunity to visit one of the most unique places to bird in Florida. I sincerely hope than anyone who witnesses someone acting out of line (such as also occurred at the sparrow site in Seminole County, and the Hammonds Flycatcher last year) that they will act immediately to intervene to stop such inconsiderate and selfish behavior, and save the privilege of seeing rare birds in unique habitats for the rest of us. The way it is going, I wonder why anyone would post the sighting of a rarity to > the lists, when they take the chance of an idiot flushing it, or keeping others from being able to view it by their own selfish behavior. > > I take losing the access to the dump very personally, as I was one of the people to discover the wealth of rarities that this place can produce. > > Bob Wallace > New Smyrna Beach > > > ----- Original Message ---- > From: David HartgroveSubject: Re: Screech-Owl coloring From: Marianne Korosy <mkorosy AT MAIL.UCF.EDU> Date: Sat, 3 May 2008 05:48:02 -0400 Judy, et al. I don't know much about genetics but I think the gray morph is dominant. Rich and Ann Paul had a pair of Screech Owls nesting in their yard a few years ago -- I believe it was the female that was rufous, the male gray. They had 5 offspring that included both color morphs but the majority were gray in that brood. If I remember correctly it was 4 out of 5 that were gray. I hope you'll "report" back to the list on the color morph distribution of the brood in your yard! Marianne Korosy Okeechobee and Palm Harbor, FL >>> Judy FisherSubject: Ft. Desoto 5/2/08 From: bales_d AT BELLSOUTH.NET Date: Sat, 3 May 2008 06:13:03 +0000 Howdy Yall, Got to Ft. Desoto at daybreak this morning (5/2/08). A lot of birds bailed out, but still enough there to keep interest. I saw Black and White Comon Yellow Throat Blakpoll Northern Waterthrush Oven Bird Yellow Warbler American Redstart Black-throated Blue Rose-breasted Grosbeak Summer Tanager Scarlet Tanager Indigo Bunting Gray-cheeked Thrush Veery Swainson's Thrush Palm Warbler The Veery was in bad shape. It's mouth was frozen open. It could not eat or drink. Nothing I could do for it. Nothing to capture it with. If it can be captured, it could taken to the Rehab in Indian Rocks Beach, and see what they could do for it. Very sad indeed.... Pictures of the day below: www.flickr.com/photos/mudhen/2461138120 www.flickr.com/photos/mudhen/2461137904 www.flickr.com/photos/mudhen/2460302359 www.flickr.com/photos/mudhen/2461136972 www.flickr.com/photos/mudhen/2460332557 www.flickr.com/photos/mudhen/2461136824 www.flickr.com/photos/mudhen/2461136628 www.flickr.com/photos/mudhen/2460302627 www.flickr.com/photos/mudhen/2461137754 www.flickr.com/photos/mudhen/2461138258 Danny Bales Titusville, Fla. www.flickr.com/photos/mudhen ____________________________________________________________________________ FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information: Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm Member photos II: see connection on photos I For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.eduSubject: Screech-Owl coloring From: Judy Fisher <e_fisher AT PIPELINE.COM> Date: Fri, 2 May 2008 22:14:04 -0400 The Screech-Owl that spends the day in my nesting box is reddish. Its presumed mate that roosts close by in thicker clumps of the same oak the box is attached to, is gray. Does anyone know the genetics of the Florida subspecies to be able to tell me what coloration I can expect in the chicks? Judy Judy Fisher Seminole, Fl ____________________________________________________________________________ FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information: Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm Member photos II: see connection on photos I For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.eduSubject: Celery Fields - 5/2/08 From: Susan <susansd AT COMCAST.NET> Date: Fri, 2 May 2008 14:07:00 -0400 The Celery Fields, in Sarasota County, are still booming with activity. This is such a reliably wonderful birding spot, and always a treat to begin your day with at dawn. Highlights included: King Rail Sora - 2 Least Bittern - 2 Purple Gallinule Bobolinks - several Eastern Kingbird No. Shoveler Fulvous Whistling-Duck Black-bellied Whistling-Ducks Wood Duck and ducklings Red-shouldered Hawk Bald Eagle Swamp Sparrow Limpkin Least Sandpipers Purple Martins Monk Parakeets Roseate Spoonbills Very unexpected surprise: one Yellow-crowned Night-Heron by the same pond as the L. Bitterns and P. Gallinule Special dessert: Swallow-tailed Kite flying over the fields on the south side of Palmer. We went to Pinecraft Park afterwards, but that was not very birdy today, yielding just Black-and-white, No. Parula, and Blackpoll for warblers. One Barred Owl was seen in the back of the park by the creek. Susan Daughtrey Englewood, Charlotte County susansd AT comcast.net ____________________________________________________________________________ FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information: Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm Member photos II: see connection on photos I For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.eduSubject: Mystery Sandpiper From: Marvin Collins <mcollins AT NETTALLY.COM> Date: Fri, 2 May 2008 13:35:49 -0400 I received a call from Gail Menk yesterday afternoon regarding the "Mystery Bird" at the Tram Road Sprayfield ponds sited by Jim Cavanaugh. I went out both late yesterday afternoon and this morning without much luck. I thought I had it spotted yesterday but didn't get a really good look. Later on, I found what I thought was the same bird but it had a very dark breast with an abrupt cuttoff and was pretty obviously a Pectoral Sandpiper. I found it again this morning. Jim's description indicated a clear breast and a thin, bicolored bill. My bird, like Jim's, was buffy in overall color, about the size of a Solitary Sandpiper (nearby) a scaly pattern to the back, and a bicolored bill. But the bill was relatively thick and the breast was definitely not clear. I feel we are definitely talking about two different birds. Other observations of potential interest: Redhead - 2 male, 1 female Missippi Kite - flying over ponds this morning Black-bellied Plover - about 5 yesterday, none in full breeding plumage Lesser Yellowlegs - lots Solitary Sandpiper - at least 2 Spotted Sandpiper - seen yesterday only Least Sanpiper - scads Semipalmated Sandpiper - at least 2. Based on dark legs, size relative to leasts, rel. short thick bill, black and white coloration. White-rumped Sandpiper - at least 2 rump apparent on flushing Stilt Sandpiper - at least 2 Barn and Northern Rough-winged Swallows (thought I saw a Bank and maybe a Tree Swallow but the little buggers were moving too fast for me) Loggerhead Shrike Marvin Collins Tallahassee ____________________________________________________________________________ FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information: Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm Member photos II: see connection on photos I For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.eduSubject: Re: [BRDBRAIN] Volusia County Landfill, New Rules From: Robert Wallace <chnuts AT YAHOO.COM> Date: Thu, 1 May 2008 18:52:01 -0700 Dear Florida Birders - Thank you very much to the few idiots who have cost us access to one of the spots that has produced more rare gulls than have ever been seen before in the history of Florida birding. To all of the rest of the birders who have now had your access restricted, I plead with you to only visit the dump on Sunday, when commercial traffic is limited and the roads are relatively quiet. The actions of a few *&^%$%&*! AT have robbed the rest of us the opportunity to visit one of the most unique places to bird in Florida. I sincerely hope than anyone who witnesses someone acting out of line (such as also occurred at the sparrow site in Seminole County, and the Hammonds Flycatcher last year) that they will act immediately to intervene to stop such inconsiderate and selfish behavior, and save the privilege of seeing rare birds in unique habitats for the rest of us. The way it is going, I wonder why anyone would post the sighting of a rarity to the lists, when they take the chance of an idiot flushing it, or keeping others from being able to view it by their own selfish behavior. I take losing the access to the dump very personally, as I was one of the people to discover the wealth of rarities that this place can produce. Bob Wallace New Smyrna Beach ----- Original Message ---- From: David HartgroveSubject: Red-footed Booby and Black Noddy, Dry Tortugas NP From: David Goodwin <davidgoodwin AT MAC.COM> Date: Thu, 1 May 2008 21:28:55 -0400 Hi all, Wes Biggs called to report that he & Dotty Robbins had the Black Noddy on the north coaling dock on Garden Key both Wednesday and Thursday. The Red-footed Booby was seen late Wednesday afternoon on Long Key. The Booby comes in late in the day and is usually not seen by folks on the day boats - you need to camp overnight to have a good shot and you need a good scope. They also had 17 species of warblers. Good birding! Dave David Goodwin Brandon, FL davidgoodwin AT mac.com ____________________________________________________________________________ FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information: Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm Member photos II: see connection on photos I For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.eduSubject: RFI: Antillean Nighthawk From: "Jonathan Heller." <jonathan.heller AT COMCAST.NET> Date: Thu, 1 May 2008 22:18:46 +0000 I will be traveling from Pennsylvania next week to south Florida. One of my target birds is Antillean Nighthawk. I see that they were recently seen at the Marathon Airport, but I am wondering where the best spots are for them in recent years. I will be in Key West for three nights so I would be especially interested in places to check near Key West. I also want to visit the Everglades while I am there and would like to know what parts of the park would be best this time of year for a good variety of birds. Please feel free to respond to me privately. Regards, Jonathan Heller Lebanon, PA jonathan.heller AT comcast.net ____________________________________________________________________________ FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information: Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm Member photos II: see connection on photos I For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.eduSubject: No Subject From: "Jonathan Heller." <jonathan.heller AT COMCAST.NET> Date: Thu, 1 May 2008 22:10:00 +0000 I will be traveling from Pennsylvania next week to south Florida. One of my target birds is Antillean Nighthawk. I see that they have been seen at the Marathon airport, but I am wondering where the best spots are for them in recent years. I will be in Key West for three nights so I would be especially interested in places to check near Key West. I also want to visit the Everglades while I am there and would like to know what parts of the park would be best this time of year for a good variety of birds. Please feel free to respond to me privately. Regards, Jonathan Heller Lebanon, PA jonathan.heller AT comcast.net ____________________________________________________________________________ FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information: Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm Member photos II: see connection on photos I For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.eduSubject: An Uninvited Houseguest From: "prlearybellsouth.net" <prleary AT BELLSOUTH.NET> Date: Thu, 1 May 2008 17:38:00 -0400 Early this morning our "avian alarm" system went off when multiple Purple martins announced the arrival of an adult male Cooper's Hawk. Given their collective and persistent distress calls, we knew the "grey ghost" was somewhere close at hand. Doris took one look out our bedroom window and discovered the fellow perched atop one of two PUMA houses on the edge of the marsh in front of our residence. What followed was unusual and unprecedented raptor behavior never witnessed here. Rather then skulk away disappointed after its initial attack, the raptor peered over the house's roof into the cavities beneath and proceeded to drop down and attempt to extract any birds cowering within. This task proved to be a difficult balancing act and the Coop soon grew frustrated and regained its perch on the flat roof. Here it became vulnerable to the irate martins circling overhead and they proceeded to "bomb and strafe" the interloper. After a few more earnest inspections, the Coop dropped down on the opposite side of the house to once again attempt to extract a hapless occupant. Alas, all the martins must have evacuated the structures as the hawk was unsuccessful and no martins were seen to make a desperate "run for it". By this time, Doris had moved out to our front deck assuming her sudden appearance would compel the hawk to depart. The Coop surprised both of us by remaining atop the house and continuing its visual inspection of the many cavities. A few shouts and "go always" later and the Coop was finally persuaded to give up its unwelcome house call. This male has been frequenting our yard much of the spring and is probably the same bird that Doris witnessed taking a Mourning dove at point blank range a while back. He is a bit bolder then most and often "still hunts" within a dense Cedar tree adjoining one of our feeders. His arrival is usually noted as no more than a fleeting shadow disappearing into the foliage. His behavior this morning evoked memories of a resourceful Peregrine observed along the Yukon's Porcupine River many decades past. That bird (part of a pair nesting on a low, river side, cliff) flew into a colony of Cliff swallows along the same escarpment, hung on the mouth of one nest cavity and attempted to reach in and extract its occupant. That effort was also unsuccessful. Bank swallow colonies were also found near peregrine aeries along large cut banks on the same river, but male peregrines restricted their occasional exploitative efforts to stoops across the face of the escarpment. Obviously, the local Coop has been observing the martins at their nest houses and "knows" the birds enter the cavities - exploiting them for a quick meal, however, proved challenging. Later, when young martins appear at the cavity entrances, we might have a real problem with this hawk. Doris and Patrick Leary, Fernandina Beach, FL ____________________________________________________________________________ FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information: Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm Member photos II: see connection on photos I For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.eduSubject: Volusia County Landfill, New Rules From: David Hartgrove <birdman9 AT EARTHLINK.NET> Date: Thu, 1 May 2008 16:09:28 -0400 Hi,
After several of incidents over the past winter, where persons
looking for various gulls exhibited far more enthusiasm than common
sense, the management of the Volusia County Landfill has issued new
guidelines for bird watchers accessing that facility. The management,
as a courtesy, sent me a letter outlining the new rules. They are
listed below. Please follow them when going out to this excellent
birding spot. Failure to do so could result in loss of access for all
of us.
1. All visitors must sign in and out at the Administration office or,
if it's closed, (weekends, holidays, etc) at the scale house.
2. Sign in time will be after 8:15 a.m. Sign out time is before 5:00
p.m. weekdays, 2:30 p.m. on weekends
3. Four areas have been designated as parking and birding areas and
they will be clearly marked. In addition, when you sign
you'll be given a map with the areas marked and a summary of the
rules.
4. Birders must remain in the designated areas. Due to the limited
parking available at these sites, car pooling from the office
is encouraged.
5. Large groups and those with more than one vehicle are asked to make
arrangements with the office ahead of time. The
phone number is 386-947-2952.
6. If anyone in a group fails to follow the rules, all members of that
group will be asked to leave.
These new limitations on our movement at this facility are the result
of the actions of just a few. They chose to drive right up into the
active dumping area, park their cars in such a way as too hinder the
trucks and heavy equipment and then got testy with the on site managers
when asked to move. This is a working landfill and as such, can be a
dangerous place. The rules are for our safety as well as the efficient
operation of the facility. We'll see you out there.
David Hartgrove
President & Conservation Chair,
Halifax River Audubon
Daytona Beach, FL
____________________________________________________________________________
FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information:
Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm
Member photos II: see connection on photos I
For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html
Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail
Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.edu
Subject: St. Augustine Gray KingbirdsFrom: Diane Reed <dreedster AT AOL.COM> Date: Thu, 1 May 2008 09:09:02 -0400 Hi all, Gray kingbirds (reported to me by someone else and later seen by me) can be seen 'frolicking' in St. Augustine on the street that approaches Ripley's Believe it Or Not. From US-1, turn east on Castillo Drive as it approaches the Museum. The birds have been hanging out on the power lines alongside the parking garage. Castillo Drive connects US-1 to San Marco and the Museum. They've been here for at least two weeks. Early mornings or late evenings are good to avoid the crowds of people out there. thanks Diane Reed St. Augustine, FL ____________________________________________________________________________ FLORIDABIRDS-L Listserv mailing list information: Member photos I: http://bkpass.tripod.com/floridabirds.htm Member photos II: see connection on photos I For archives: http://lists.ufl.edu/archives/floridabirds-l.html Set nomail: listserv AT lists.ufl.edu Message: Set floridabirds-L nomail Listowner: FloridaBirds-L-request AT lists.ufl.eduSubject: St. Augustine Gray Kingbirds From: dreedster AT aol.com Date: Thu, 01 May 2008 09:09:02 -0400 Hi all, Gray kingbirds (reported to me by someone else and later seen by me) can be seen 'frolicking' in St. Augustine on the street that approaches Ripley's Believe it Or Not. From US-1, turn east on Castillo Drive as it approaches the Museum. The birds have been hanging out on the power lines alongside the parking garage. Castillo Drive connects US-1 to San Marco and the Museum. They've been here for at least two weeks. Early mornings or late evenings are good to avoid the crowds of people out there. thanks Diane Reed St. Augustine, FL |