Idaho Birding

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Recent Postings from
Idaho Birding

Updated on Monday, February 8 at 07:55 PM ET
The most recently received Mail is at the top.

9 Feb Southwestern Idaho Birders Association, 2/11/2010, 7:00 pm []
8 Feb Re: Idaho Birder: Brian Cooper [Linda Corliss ]
8 Feb Ruby Crowned Kinglet [julie morgan ]
8 Feb RE: Yellow-shafted Flicker (specific to Barn Owls) [julie morgan ]
8 Feb Idaho Birder: Brian Cooper ["Robert Mortensen" ]
7 Feb Re: Merlin ["Shirley Sturts" ]
7 Feb Yellow-Shafted Northern Flicker [julie morgan ]
7 Feb Merlin [1 Attachment] [Susie ]
7 Feb Boise County Year List Additions ["Sheri Foote" ]
06 Feb Re: wildlife viewing fees ["monty.thomson" ]
6 Feb Re: veiwing fees []
6 Feb Re: Lesser Goldfinch location [julie morgan ]
5 Feb lesser goldfinch [julie morgan ]
5 Feb veiwing fees []
5 Feb Re: Idaho Wildlife Viewing Fees [jonathan stoke ]
5 Feb Danzenbaker Tour Journal on BirdFellow.com [David Irons ]
05 Feb Re: Idaho Wildlife Viewing Fees [Bill Moore ]
5 Feb Re: Idaho Wildlife Viewing Fees ["robwhit AT qwest.net" ]
5 Feb increase in bill deformities, citizen reports requested [jonathan stoke ]
05 Feb Taxing birdwatching ["jsnowalaska" ]
5 Feb Re: Idaho Wildlife Viewing Fees ["J. Harry Krueger" ]
05 Feb Re: Idaho Wildlife Viewing Fees [Cliff and Lisa Weisse ]
05 Feb Wildlife Tax Earmarks ["lcarrigan_55" ]
5 Feb GBBC article in Idaho Statesman ["Robert Mortensen" ]
5 Feb Re: Idaho Wildlife Viewing Fees ["Dave Burrup" ]
5 Feb Idaho Wildlife Viewing Fees ["Robert Mortensen" ]
5 Feb Southwestern Idaho Birders Association, 2/11/2010, 7:00 pm []
4 Feb Marsing's Island Park [Denise Hughes ]
4 Feb Re: taxing birding [Dave Mead ]
4 Feb taxing birding [Dave Mead ]
4 Feb 210 in 2010: eBird Idaho - week five ["Robert Mortensen" ]
3 Feb RE: FW: [BIRDCHAT] Training in Counting Flocks of Birds [Denise Hughes ]
3 Feb FW: [BIRDCHAT] Training in Counting Flocks of Birds [Michael Wiegand ]
3 Feb Ada Co. Landfill & Hyatt Wetlands today []
3 Feb Supporting Wildlife [Rohn ]
3 Feb RE: Idaho F&G may want to tax bird watching!??? [Denise Hughes ]
3 Feb Re: Northern Shrike: Foote Park [jonathan stoke ]
3 Feb RE: Idaho F&G may want to tax bird watching!??? [Darren Clark ]
03 Feb Re: Common Snipe in Teton Valley [Cliff and Lisa Weisse ]
3 Feb RE: Common Snipe in Teton Valley ["David Lawrence" ]
03 Feb Re: Common Snipe in Teton Valley [Cliff and Lisa Weisse ]
03 Feb Common Snipe in Teton Valley ["Rohn" ]
03 Feb Idaho F&G may want to tax bird watching!??? ["rkmorten" ]
2 Feb No Kumlien's or Glaucous today []
1 Feb 2010 Canyon Co. List ["Cheryl Huizinga" ]
1 Feb RE: Green Heron at Marsing ["David Lawrence" ]
1 Feb Green Heron at Marsing ["Jim & Bev Holcomb" ]
01 Feb Re: Iceland Gull Chase and other stuff. [Cliff and Lisa Weisse ]
1 Feb Re: Iceland Gull Chase and other stuff. [Charles Swift ]
1 Feb Idaho Birder: Peggy Williams ["Robert Mortensen" ]
1 Feb File - IBLE Guidelines.txt []
31 Jan Iceland Gull Chase and other stuff. [Darren Clark ]
31 Jan RFI Owls in Teton Co ["Katie" ]
31 Jan RE: Ft Boise, New Plymouth, Caldwell area [Denise Hughes ]
31 Jan Ft Boise, New Plymouth, Caldwell area [Louie Quintana ]
30 Jan Idaho Falls - Rosehill Cemetery []
30 Jan Re: Gilded Flicker ["monty.thomson" ]
30 Jan Birding at the sand Dunes? ["Rohn" ]
29 Jan Gilded Flicker? ["kay_boise" ]
28 Jan Reducing aircraft-wildlife strikes at airports [Matt Kennedy ]
28 Jan Lower dam at Deer Flat [Denise Hughes ]
28 Jan 2010 Ada County Big Year List ["Lew & Connie Ulrey" ]
28 Jan 210 in 2010: eBird Idaho - Week Four ["Robert Mortensen" ]
27 Jan Wilson Springs ["steve_and_eileenloerch" ]
26 Jan Ada Co. Landfill Gulls []
26 Jan [Fwd: Great Backyard Bird Count Newsletter - Jan. 2010] [Cliff and Lisa Weisse ]
25 Jan Trumpeter Swans near Vale [Ruth Shea ]
25 Jan Red-Winged Blackbirds [Ruthann Greene ]
25 Jan Red-Winged Blackbirds [Denise Hughes ]
25 Jan RE: Red-Winged Blackbirds [Michael Wiegand ]
25 Jan Re: Red-Winged Blackbirds [Cliff and Lisa Weisse ]
25 Jan Re: Hooded Merganser [Cliff and Lisa Weisse ]
25 Jan Red-Winged Blackbirds ["Robert Mortensen" ]
25 Jan RE: Boise Greenbelt in Garden city - Red Wing Black [Michael Wiegand ]
25 Jan Boise Greenbelt in Garden city - Red Wing Black [Ruthann Greene ]
25 Jan Hooded Merganser ["Rohn" ]

Subject: Southwestern Idaho Birders Association, 2/11/2010, 7:00 pm
From: ible AT yahoogroups.com
Date: 9 Feb 2010 01:55:20 -0000

Reminder from: ible Yahoo! Group http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ible/cal Southwestern Idaho Birders Association Thursday February 11, 2010 7:00 pm - 8:45 pm Location: Visitor Center, Deer Flat NWR, Lake Lowell, Nampa, ID Notes: "Conserving Columbia Wildlife" presented by Matt Miller will be the evening program. All Rights Reserved Copyright © 2010 Yahoo! Inc. http://www.yahoo.com Privacy Policy: http://privacy.yahoo.com/privacy/us Terms of Service: http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
Subject: Re: Idaho Birder: Brian Cooper
From: Linda Corliss <lindaco_65 AT yahoo.com>
Date: Mon, 8 Feb 2010 12:55:57 -0800 (PST)

Thanks for sharing this, Robert.Ā I enjoyed reading this interview and seeing the other things on the site. Linda Corliss ________________________________ From: Robert Mortensen To: "Ible AT Yahoogroups.Com" ; swiba AT yahoogroups.com Sent: Mon, February 8, 2010 8:27:14 AM Subject: [IBLE] Idaho Birder: Brian Cooper Ā Today's Idaho Birder Profile features Brian Cooper of Nampa...that's right another construction guy that's into birds!Ā Because of this interview I discovered that I grew up with Brian's boys in the Nampa school system.Ā A fun small world reconnect! Interviews in the coming weeks include Rich Rusnak and Brian Sturges.Ā Keep those referrals coming!Ā This would be a great time for the dozen or so of you out there working on your responses to send them to me (hint-hint). Happy Birding! http://avimor. blogspot. com ------------ --------- --------- ---- Robert Mortensen Avimor Birding Blog 208-939-0343 office 208-921-1202 mobile robert.mortensen AT suncorID. com
Subject: Ruby Crowned Kinglet
From: julie morgan <juliemorgan111 AT hotmail.com>
Date: Mon, 8 Feb 2010 09:04:01 -0700

Boise, ID Sorry for so many clarification posts today. I just heard from Danette that I wrote Ruby Throated Kinglet in my post (Yellow-shafted N. Flicker) yesterday. Before anyone rushes over to see the new species, I thought I should correct it to a Ruby-crowned Kinglet. :) Wow, I rarely do see my own typos, but that one should have been obvious. _________________________________________________________________ Hotmail: Powerful Free email with security by Microsoft. http://clk.atdmt.com/GBL/go/201469230/direct/01/
Subject: RE: Yellow-shafted Flicker (specific to Barn Owls)
From: julie morgan <juliemorgan111 AT hotmail.com>
Date: Mon, 8 Feb 2010 08:59:08 -0700

I thought I'd add that the Barn Owls "making a nest" in my neighbor's tree are doing that in a big hole in her mature Poplar tree, lest anyone thought I was seeing things. :) Julie Yellow-Shafted Northern Flicker Posted by: "julie morgan" juliemorgan111 AT hotmail.com julie.morgan111 Sun Feb 7, 2010 3:25 pm (PST) Sighting location: Boise, off of Pierce Park Lane between Castle Dr. and Hill Road. My suet feeders are extremely popular lately. Today I was able to observe a Yellow-Shafter Northern Flicker feasting there. My sister, Danette Henderson, helped me to identify him. I was able to observe the yellow underwing and undertail as well as the red nape and black malars. I also noticed his brown (not gray) face and throat. Also present at the suet feeder: Black-capped Chickadees Ruby Throated Kinglet (daily visitor) Downy Woodpeckers Male and Female Starlings (Flicker always won that battle, even against multiples) Black-billed Magpies (unfortunately they ousted the Flicker) Red-winged Blackbirds (shared nicely with others) Other excitement in the neighborhood: Two Barn Owls making their home and nest in my neighbor's tree! I was able to observe them at near-dusk with my binoculars the other evening. __________________________________________________________ Hotmail: Trusted email with powerful SPAM protection. http://clk.atdmt.com/GBL/go/201469227/direct/01/ Back to top Reply to sender | Reply to group | Reply via web post _________________________________________________________________ Hotmail: Trusted email with Microsoft’s powerful SPAM protection. http://clk.atdmt.com/GBL/go/201469226/direct/01/
Subject: Idaho Birder: Brian Cooper
From: "Robert Mortensen" <robert.mortensen AT suncorid.com>
Date: Mon, 8 Feb 2010 08:27:14 -0700

Today's Idaho Birder Profile features Brian Cooper of Nampa...that's right another construction guy that's into birds! Because of this interview I discovered that I grew up with Brian's boys in the Nampa school system. A fun small world reconnect! Interviews in the coming weeks include Rich Rusnak and Brian Sturges. Keep those referrals coming! This would be a great time for the dozen or so of you out there working on your responses to send them to me (hint-hint). Happy Birding! http://avimor.blogspot.com ---------------------------------- Robert Mortensen Avimor Birding Blog 208-939-0343 office 208-921-1202 mobile robert.mortensen AT suncorID.com
Subject: Re: Merlin
From: "Shirley Sturts" <shirley.sturts AT gmail.com>
Date: Sun, 7 Feb 2010 22:43:28 -0800

This sighting of a Merlin by Susie overwinters the Merlin for Latilong 17. See: http://www.idahobirds.net/distribution/dbase_spec.html I have not had time to upload this change on the map from pink to blue on yet. I'll work on that tomorrow. A bird has to be observed all three months of the same winter to be overwintered. The Merlin was reported on the Nampa CBC Dec 19 and for the Canyon Co. Big Year Jan. 2, Boise River, Caldwell by David Lawrence. It was also on the Ada Co Big Year for Jan. 1 but I don't know where or who saw it. Thanks Susie for reporting your sighting on IBLE. Shirley Sturts Coeur d'Alene, ID ----- Original Message ----- From: "Susie" To: ; Sent: Sunday, February 07, 2010 02:12 PM Subject: [IBLE] Merlin [1 Attachment] > Hi all, > Yesterday I found a Song Sparrow dangling from the talons of a > hungry Merlin...two birds for the price of one (plus Merlin was > a life bird for me)! The Merlin was enjoying his dinner in a > tree at Deer Flat near the lower parking lot of the visitor's > center at about 3:30 pm. I was so excited I had to run back > to the visitor center to share my find with Jim Holcomb and > "Katie the Owl Lady". A very nice ending to a great day of > birding. Photo attached. > > >
Subject: Yellow-Shafted Northern Flicker
From: julie morgan <juliemorgan111 AT hotmail.com>
Date: Sun, 7 Feb 2010 16:25:53 -0700

Sighting location: Boise, off of Pierce Park Lane between Castle Dr. and Hill Road. My suet feeders are extremely popular lately. Today I was able to observe a Yellow-Shafter Northern Flicker feasting there. My sister, Danette Henderson, helped me to identify him. I was able to observe the yellow underwing and undertail as well as the red nape and black malars. I also noticed his brown (not gray) face and throat. Also present at the suet feeder: Black-capped Chickadees Ruby Throated Kinglet (daily visitor) Downy Woodpeckers Male and Female Starlings (Flicker always won that battle, even against multiples) Black-billed Magpies (unfortunately they ousted the Flicker) Red-winged Blackbirds (shared nicely with others) Other excitement in the neighborhood: Two Barn Owls making their home and nest in my neighbor's tree! I was able to observe them at near-dusk with my binoculars the other evening. _________________________________________________________________ Hotmail: Trusted email with powerful SPAM protection. http://clk.atdmt.com/GBL/go/201469227/direct/01/
Subject: Merlin [1 Attachment]
From: Susie <ladysolen AT yahoo.com>
Date: Sun, 7 Feb 2010 14:12:14 -0800 (PST)

Hi all, Yesterday I found a Song Sparrow dangling from the talons of a hungry Merlin...two birds for the price of one (plus Merlin was a life bird for me)! The Merlin was enjoying his dinner in a tree at Deer Flat near the lower parking lot of the visitor's center at about 3:30 pm. I was so excited I had to run back to the visitor center to share my find with Jim Holcomb and "Katie the Owl Lady". A very nice ending to a great day of birding. Photo attached.
Subject: Boise County Year List Additions
From: "Sheri Foote" <featherchaser AT frontiernet.net>
Date: Sun, 7 Feb 2010 11:07:00 -0700 (Mountain Standard Time)

Here is an update of what we've seen in Boise County. Hope things start picking up soon!!! Sheri Foote Garden Valley No.NameDateLocationObserver 044Mallard01/18/10Garden ValleySpencer Walters 045Golden Eagle01/19/10GardenaMike Van Dyk 046Horned Lark01/23/10Boise Cty/Gem Cty LineMichael Wiegand 047Northern Pygmy-Owl01/24/10Garden Valley (Proj. Patch)Spencer Walters 048American Robin01/24/10Garden ValleyLinda Yearsley 049Red-winged Blackbird01/24/10Garden ValleyRalph Foote 050Northern Shrike01/27/10Garden ValleySpencer Walters 051Wilson's Snipe01/29/10Garden Valley (Proj. Patch)Juli Byard 052Gray Partridge01/31/10Garden Valley High SchoolSheri Foote 053Dusky Grouse01/31/10Bogus Basin Nordic Ski AreaRob Miller 054Ruffed Grouse02/01/10Garden Valley (Pinney Cr.)Michael Wiegand
Subject: Re: wildlife viewing fees
From: "monty.thomson" <monty.thomson AT yahoo.com>
Date: Sat, 06 Feb 2010 20:12:39 -0000

so here's my 2 cents... my initial reaction to the proposed fees fell in similar territory as robert. when i first moved to Idaho in 1976, i was impressed with all the outdoor places that were accessable to me and the care that Idahoans took of there open spaces. even when i was broke i could always scrounge up enough gas money to get myself to Stanley (where you could camp practically anywhere with no imposed fee). i remember the first year i went to Stanley after the user fee was implemented. i thought, "how dare they!" and "why, when i was a kid...blah, blah, blah" but, a lot more people have come to Idaho since then and a lot more people visit those same places i do. and with increased use comes increased abuse and the need for management, which of course, cost money. it is here that i fall in agreeance with cliff, harry and rob. i would rather not pay a fee but understand the need for funding to properly maintain wildlife habitat (i purchase a duck stamp every year but do not hunt). however, having been a recent attendee at a few senate and house budget hearings, i see that the state is after every dollar they can get and i i would be very hesitant to trust that the money paid would be strictly allocated for the use of non-game wildlife enhancement. monty thomson boise
Subject: Re: veiwing fees
From: xylemacres AT hughes.net
Date: Sat, 6 Feb 2010 20:00:17 +0000 (GMT)

Subject: Re: Lesser Goldfinch location
From: julie morgan <juliemorgan111 AT hotmail.com>
Date: Sat, 6 Feb 2010 10:35:31 -0700

I wanted to submit additional location information about the two Lesser Goldfinch I reported yesterday. Warm Springs Ave. is a road in Boise. As Warm Springs heads east, it eventually becomes Highway 21 and passes by Lucky peak. Sorry, I'm new to this and had forgotten that birders from far outside of Boise also read the posts and would likely not be familiar with Warm Springs. Happy Birding, Julie _________________________________________________________________ Your E-mail and More On-the-Go. Get Windows Live Hotmail Free. http://clk.atdmt.com/GBL/go/201469229/direct/01/
Subject: lesser goldfinch
From: julie morgan <juliemorgan111 AT hotmail.com>
Date: Fri, 5 Feb 2010 19:17:54 -0700

I saw a male and female Lesser Goldfinch today at Council Springs Road. This Road is off of Warm Springs, and borders the eastern edge of Harris Ranch Subdivision (heading north off of Warm Springs.) The road ends and becomes a walking trail 400 meters or so north of Warm Springs. The Lesser Goldfinch were seen in a deciduous shrub to the west of the trail about 300m up the trail. It can be found at the second power pole past the second sign indicating that you are in a wildlife habitat. The diagonal support wire running S. from this power pole lands very close to this shrub. I saw the Lesser GF there last year, also. _________________________________________________________________ Hotmail: Free, trusted and rich email service. http://clk.atdmt.com/GBL/go/201469228/direct/01/
Subject: veiwing fees
From: lionshodges AT aol.com
Date: Fri, 5 Feb 2010 20:28:46 EST

I guess I'm not as dedicated to bird watching as most of you. I would NOT be willing to pay a fee to view birds. I have two reason for that statement. When IDF&G raised their fees a few years ago the funds did not go for what they said when they were trying to sell the increase. As a result I have quit hunting and only buy a fishing license because my wife wants to fish.. I don't trust them as far as I could throw a tiger by the tail. I'm sure that most of the money would go to pay some F&G officer to sit on his butt in the office or in a new truck. Probably have to hire someone to collect the fees and enforce the areas also. The other reason is I believe that we should ALL pay for conservation. The only fair way I know to do that is raise taxes(bite my tongue) and ear mark it for conservation. Even then you run the risk that the legislature could find a way to get it and spend it for something else. DeWayne Hodges Rigby
Subject: Re: Idaho Wildlife Viewing Fees
From: jonathan stoke <helio_jonathan AT yahoo.com>
Date: Fri, 5 Feb 2010 14:37:30 -0800 (PST)

I'll try to avoid an opinion and share some thoughts and factors instead. Ā Wouldn't it be nice if there were more money for habitat acquisition and improvement?Ā I think so.Ā I wouldn't mind a tax on recreational equipment (camping gear, optics, and whatever).Ā A tax on purchasesĀ imposes the tax onĀ those who have the money to spend on such things, but does not impose burdensome access fees or taxes on those who are struggling to make ends meet.Ā Has anyone noticed the nationalĀ 17% unemployment / underemployment rate? Ā When the feds started charging for access to undeveloped federal lands (USFS fees for trail use) there was quite a groundswell of opposition.Ā A lot of the money went to enforcement of the payment of the fees, instead of to trail maintenance.Ā People were hit with federal criminal charges for failing to obtain a permit to hike on public lands. Ā I have no problem with paying to access a National Park or fee campground that provides amenities that must be maintained like restrooms and picnic tables and such.Ā I proudly purchase the America the Beautiful pass. Ā Would I pay to access National Wildlife Refuges?Ā Absolutely, and my visit to the Dungeness Spit NWR was covered by my America the Beautiful pass ($80 annual fee).Ā Otherwise it would have been $3 or $5 or something like that for a day pass.Ā I'd like to imagine some of that money going to good use. Ā Would I like to think that anyone could visit Malheur NWR without paying a fee?Ā Yes, I would.Ā But I was very impressed with the quality of the interpretive center, brochures and bird checklists, museum, etc.Ā I'd pay $5 for a 7-day pass without a second thought. Ā Now, do I want to have the State of Idaho tax people (or charge fees for wildlife viewing)Ā and give the money to IDF&G for purposes left to the wisdom of the Idaho Legislature?Ā Hmm.Ā Lots of good folks work there, doing great work.Ā Think of the kindness Clare has shown birders at the Ft. Boise WMA for instance, during numerous GEAS outings.Ā That said, IDF&G is under the thumb of a governor-appointed Board and Director.Ā I'll shut my lips right there, and leave you all to ponder the ramifications. Ā jonathan stoke, Boise Ā Sorry for all the acronyms: GEAS Ā Golden Eagle Audubon Society WMAĀ Wildlife Management Area NWRĀ National Wildlife Refuge USFS Ā United States Forest Service IDF&GĀ Idaho Fish & Game Ā Ā --- On Fri, 2/5/10, Bill Moore wrote: From: Bill Moore Subject: Re: [IBLE] Idaho Wildlife Viewing Fees To: ible AT yahoogroups.com Date: Friday, February 5, 2010, 11:23 AM Ā So what's the matter with giving Fish and Game more money so they can spend it on valued wildlife enhancement projects like big new trucks, offices, office furniture, non-field staff and big heated garages? Money could always go to Nature Conservancy, or similar groups, directly and bypass the benevolent bureaucracy. Bill Moore Inkom, where all I get are goldfinches, siskins a few chickadees some pesky flickers and a woodpecker -----Original Message----- From: robwhit AT qwest. net To: jhkrueger AT gmail. com; cliffandlisa AT octobersetters. com; ible AT yahoogroups. com Sent: Fri, Feb 5, 2010 11:02 am Subject: Re: [IBLE] Idaho Wildlife Viewing Fees Ā Thank you Harry and Cliff for your eloquence. I couldn't have said it better. I'm no fan of taxes. Lord knows we have lots more coming our way. I have considered for some time how all wildlife connections could benefit from broader habitat improvement and creation. It's a stamp I would look forward to purchasing each year. Bob Whitlatch Original Message: ------------ ----- From: J. Harry Krueger jhkrueger AT gmail. com Date: Fri, 5 Feb 2010 09:59:48 -0700 To: cliffandlisa AT octobersetters. com, IBLE AT yahoogroups. com Subject: Re: [IBLE] Idaho Wildlife Viewing Fees " However I would not be willing to pay for the WMA license if the funds generated go into the general F & G fundss. They would have to designate the funds specifically for non-game habitat enhancement/ protection/ restoration rather than other uses like removing habitat ("invasive" species like Russian Olives) and predators." Ditto to Cliff's comment. Government has a way of rewriting the rules to fit their perception of fiscal needs... unless directly prohibited from doing so. J. Harry Krueger Boise On Fri, Feb 5, 2010 at 9:33 AM, Cliff and Lisa Weisse < cliffandlisa AT octobersetters. com> wrote: > > > Actually they're not private land. They may have been purchased using > revenues from license fees but they are public lands managed by a government > agency. I have no objection to paying a use fee for WMAs. I already buy > hunting and fishing licenses every year and would pay extra for the non-game > use license. However I would not be willing to pay for the WMA license if > the funds generated go into the general F & G fundss. They would have to > designate the funds specifically for non-game habitat > enhancement/ protection/ restoration rather than other uses like removing > habitat ("invasive" species like Russian Olives) and predators. > > While we're on the subject instead of requiring purchase of a Duck Stamp > how about a Wildlife Viewing Stamp to access NWRs that would generate funds > specifically for habitat improvements that benefit species other the > waterfowl? I have no objection to supporting NWRs and their current agenda > but Camas could certainly use some help generating funds for non-waterfowl > projects. I'd gladly contribute to that too. > > Cliff > > > Dave Burrup wrote: > > > > The proposal only covers F&G management areas. These areas were purchased > with fees from hunting, not tax dollars. So in essence they are private > land. I have thought for a long time that access to these lands should > require a valid hunting license for everyone using the properties. I also > think it justifiable that the Federal refuges should require a valid Duck > stamp. > Dave > South East Idaho > > ----- Original Message ----- > *From:* Robert Mortensen > *To:* Ible AT Yahoogroups. Com > *Sent:* Friday, February 05, 2010 7:58 AM > *Subject:* [IBLE] Idaho Wildlife Viewing Fees > > > > My initial reaction to potential wildlife viewing fees was "You've got to > be kidding me!" IBLE comments have been interesting and generally > supportive of some type of fee structure. My own opinion has been tempered > with new understanding. I even have some ideas about how it may be done most > effectively while still holding fast to my political principles. If you're > interested, check out my most recent post at http://avimor. blogspot. com. > > Happy Birding! > > ------------ --------- --------- ---- > > *Robert Mortensen* > > Avimor Birding Blog > > 208-939-0343 office > > 208-921-1202 mobile > > robert.mortensen AT suncorID. com > > > -- > Cliff and Lisa Weisse > Island Park, Idahocliffandlisa AT octobersetters. com > > > ------------ --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- - mail2web LIVE ā€“ Free email based on MicrosoftĀ® Exchange technology - http://link. mail2web. com/LIVE
Subject: Danzenbaker Tour Journal on BirdFellow.com
From: David Irons <davidirons20 AT yahoo.com>
Date: Fri, 5 Feb 2010 11:31:33 -0800 (PST)

Greetings All, After a couple technical glitches, including a crash of Jim Danzenbaker's hard drive, the final installments of his tour journal from South America/Antarctica are finally up at BirdFellow.com. It has been a lot of fun sharing these writings and the accompanying images and it has definitely sparked my own interest in someday visiting this amazing corner of the world. In a way, it feels like I've been there already. The journal may be a bit quiet in the coming days, as we are feverishly working behind the scenes to get images loaded and soon to be released features and content fine-tuned for launch. Dave Irons Content Editor BirdFellow.com
Subject: Re: Idaho Wildlife Viewing Fees
From: Bill Moore <moorews AT aol.com>
Date: Fri, 05 Feb 2010 13:23:21 -0500

So what's the matter with giving Fish and Game more money so they can spend it on valued wildlife enhancement projects like big new trucks, offices, office furniture, non-field staff and big heated garages? Money could always go to Nature Conservancy, or similar groups, directly and bypass the benevolent bureaucracy. Bill Moore Inkom, where all I get are goldfinches, siskins a few chickadees some pesky flickers and a woodpecker -----Original Message----- From: robwhit AT qwest.net To: jhkrueger AT gmail.com; cliffandlisa AT octobersetters.com; ible AT yahoogroups.com Sent: Fri, Feb 5, 2010 11:02 am Subject: Re: [IBLE] Idaho Wildlife Viewing Fees Thank you Harry and Cliff for your eloquence. I couldn't have said it better. I'm no fan of taxes. Lord knows we have lots more coming our way. I have considered for some time how all wildlife connections could benefit from broader habitat improvement and creation. It's a stamp I would look forward to purchasing each year. Bob Whitlatch Original Message: ----------------- From: J. Harry Krueger jhkrueger AT gmail.com Date: Fri, 5 Feb 2010 09:59:48 -0700 To: cliffandlisa AT octobersetters.com, IBLE AT yahoogroups.com Subject: Re: [IBLE] Idaho Wildlife Viewing Fees " However I would not be willing to pay for the WMA license if the funds generated go into the general F & G fundss. They would have to designate the funds specifically for non-game habitat enhancement/protection/restoration rather than other uses like removing habitat ("invasive" species like Russian Olives) and predators." Ditto to Cliff's comment. Government has a way of rewriting the rules to fit their perception of fiscal needs... unless directly prohibited from doing so. J. Harry Krueger Boise On Fri, Feb 5, 2010 at 9:33 AM, Cliff and Lisa Weisse < cliffandlisa AT octobersetters.com> wrote: > > > Actually they're not private land. They may have been purchased using > revenues from license fees but they are public lands managed by a government > agency. I have no objection to paying a use fee for WMAs. I already buy > hunting and fishing licenses every year and would pay extra for the non-game > use license. However I would not be willing to pay for the WMA license if > the funds generated go into the general F & G fundss. They would have to > designate the funds specifically for non-game habitat > enhancement/protection/restoration rather than other uses like removing > habitat ("invasive" species like Russian Olives) and predators. > > While we're on the subject instead of requiring purchase of a Duck Stamp > how about a Wildlife Viewing Stamp to access NWRs that would generate funds > specifically for habitat improvements that benefit species other the > waterfowl? I have no objection to supporting NWRs and their current agenda > but Camas could certainly use some help generating funds for non-waterfowl > projects. I'd gladly contribute to that too. > > Cliff > > > Dave Burrup wrote: > > > > The proposal only covers F&G management areas. These areas were purchased > with fees from hunting, not tax dollars. So in essence they are private > land. I have thought for a long time that access to these lands should > require a valid hunting license for everyone using the properties. I also > think it justifiable that the Federal refuges should require a valid Duck > stamp. > Dave > South East Idaho > > ----- Original Message ----- > *From:* Robert Mortensen > *To:* Ible AT Yahoogroups.Com > *Sent:* Friday, February 05, 2010 7:58 AM > *Subject:* [IBLE] Idaho Wildlife Viewing Fees > > > > My initial reaction to potential wildlife viewing fees was "You've got to > be kidding me!" IBLE comments have been interesting and generally > supportive of some type of fee structure. My own opinion has been tempered > with new understanding. I even have some ideas about how it may be done most > effectively while still holding fast to my political principles. If you're > interested, check out my most recent post at http://avimor.blogspot.com. > > Happy Birding! > > ---------------------------------- > > *Robert Mortensen* > > Avimor Birding Blog > > 208-939-0343 office > > 208-921-1202 mobile > > robert.mortensen AT suncorID.com > > > -- > Cliff and Lisa Weisse > Island Park, Idahocliffandlisa AT octobersetters.com > > > ---------------------------------------------------------- mail2web LIVE ā€“ Free email based on MicrosoftĀ® Exchange technology - http://link.mail2web.com/LIVE
Subject: Re: Idaho Wildlife Viewing Fees
From: "robwhit AT qwest.net" <robwhit@qwest.net>
Date: Fri, 5 Feb 2010 13:02:11 -0500

Thank you Harry and Cliff for your eloquence. I couldn't have said it better. I'm no fan of taxes. Lord knows we have lots more coming our way. I have considered for some time how all wildlife connections could benefit from broader habitat improvement and creation. It's a stamp I would look forward to purchasing each year. Bob Whitlatch Original Message: ----------------- From: J. Harry Krueger jhkrueger AT gmail.com Date: Fri, 5 Feb 2010 09:59:48 -0700 To: cliffandlisa AT octobersetters.com, IBLE AT yahoogroups.com Subject: Re: [IBLE] Idaho Wildlife Viewing Fees " However I would not be willing to pay for the WMA license if the funds generated go into the general F & G fundss. They would have to designate the funds specifically for non-game habitat enhancement/protection/restoration rather than other uses like removing habitat ("invasive" species like Russian Olives) and predators." Ditto to Cliff's comment. Government has a way of rewriting the rules to fit their perception of fiscal needs... unless directly prohibited from doing so. J. Harry Krueger Boise On Fri, Feb 5, 2010 at 9:33 AM, Cliff and Lisa Weisse < cliffandlisa AT octobersetters.com> wrote: > > > Actually they're not private land. They may have been purchased using > revenues from license fees but they are public lands managed by a government > agency. I have no objection to paying a use fee for WMAs. I already buy > hunting and fishing licenses every year and would pay extra for the non-game > use license. However I would not be willing to pay for the WMA license if > the funds generated go into the general F & G fundss. They would have to > designate the funds specifically for non-game habitat > enhancement/protection/restoration rather than other uses like removing > habitat ("invasive" species like Russian Olives) and predators. > > While we're on the subject instead of requiring purchase of a Duck Stamp > how about a Wildlife Viewing Stamp to access NWRs that would generate funds > specifically for habitat improvements that benefit species other the > waterfowl? I have no objection to supporting NWRs and their current agenda > but Camas could certainly use some help generating funds for non-waterfowl > projects. I'd gladly contribute to that too. > > Cliff > > > Dave Burrup wrote: > > > > The proposal only covers F&G management areas. These areas were purchased > with fees from hunting, not tax dollars. So in essence they are private > land. I have thought for a long time that access to these lands should > require a valid hunting license for everyone using the properties. I also > think it justifiable that the Federal refuges should require a valid Duck > stamp. > Dave > South East Idaho > > ----- Original Message ----- > *From:* Robert Mortensen > *To:* Ible AT Yahoogroups.Com > *Sent:* Friday, February 05, 2010 7:58 AM > *Subject:* [IBLE] Idaho Wildlife Viewing Fees > > > > My initial reaction to potential wildlife viewing fees was "You've got to > be kidding me!" IBLE comments have been interesting and generally > supportive of some type of fee structure. My own opinion has been tempered > with new understanding. I even have some ideas about how it may be done most > effectively while still holding fast to my political principles. If you're > interested, check out my most recent post at http://avimor.blogspot.com. > > Happy Birding! > > ---------------------------------- > > *Robert Mortensen* > > Avimor Birding Blog > > 208-939-0343 office > > 208-921-1202 mobile > > robert.mortensen AT suncorID.com > > > -- > Cliff and Lisa Weisse > Island Park, Idahocliffandlisa AT octobersetters.com > > > -------------------------------------------------------------------- mail2web LIVE – Free email based on Microsoft® Exchange technology - http://link.mail2web.com/LIVE
Subject: increase in bill deformities, citizen reports requested
From: jonathan stoke <helio_jonathan AT yahoo.com>
Date: Fri, 5 Feb 2010 09:56:51 -0800 (PST)

USGS: Alaska Science Center requests citizen reports. Ā "Over the past several years, Alaskans have witnessed a startling increase of beak deformities among local birds.Ā Large numbers of Black-capped Chickadees and smaller numbers of many other species of birds have appeared with grossly overgrown and crossed beaks. Ā We began research in 1999, and have since identified nearly 2,000 deformed Black-capped Chickadees in south-central Alaskaā€”the highest concentration of such abnormalities ever recorded in a wild bird population anywhere!Ā More recently, rapidly increasing numbers of other species, including Downy Woodpeckers, Northwestern Crows, Stellerā€™s Jays, and Black-billed Magpies have also been reported with beak deformities by biologists and local residents throughout the state. Ā Although we do not yet know the source of this widespread problem, we continue to investigate potential causes, including environmental contaminants, nutritional deficiencies, and disease.Ā Nearly all of the species affected are year-round residents, and we suspect that factors responsible for this cluster of deformities may be unique to Alaska and the Pacific Northwest.Ā We are currently pursuing additional studies to determine where these deformities are occurring and why.Ā Reports from the public help us to determine where and how many birds are affected.Ā If you see a bird with a deformed beak, please contact us." Ā http://alaska.usgs.gov/science/biology/landbirds/beak_deformity/index.html
Subject: Taxing birdwatching
From: "jsnowalaska" <jsnowalaska AT yahoo.com>
Date: Fri, 05 Feb 2010 17:08:17 -0000

I'm agreeing with Roberts initial reaction to the wildlife viewing tax and say NO. The State of Idaho is short on cash and is trying to create new sources of money, that's all this is. I have to travel farther and farther away from home for a job and I don't like it. This state needs more jobs not more revenue streams. I have personally had it with more programs and more regulations. If we, IBLE, and other groups wnat more places to view wildlife then we should pony up the monies ourselves and quit looking to a bloated and wasteful government department to clumsily do our bidding. One Man's opinion, Jonathan Snow
Subject: Re: Idaho Wildlife Viewing Fees
From: "J. Harry Krueger" <jhkrueger AT gmail.com>
Date: Fri, 5 Feb 2010 09:59:48 -0700

" However I would not be willing to pay for the WMA license if the funds generated go into the general F & G fundss. They would have to designate the funds specifically for non-game habitat enhancement/protection/restoration rather than other uses like removing habitat ("invasive" species like Russian Olives) and predators." Ditto to Cliff's comment. Government has a way of rewriting the rules to fit their perception of fiscal needs... unless directly prohibited from doing so. J. Harry Krueger Boise On Fri, Feb 5, 2010 at 9:33 AM, Cliff and Lisa Weisse < cliffandlisa AT octobersetters.com> wrote: > > > Actually they're not private land. They may have been purchased using > revenues from license fees but they are public lands managed by a government > agency. I have no objection to paying a use fee for WMAs. I already buy > hunting and fishing licenses every year and would pay extra for the non-game > use license. However I would not be willing to pay for the WMA license if > the funds generated go into the general F & G fundss. They would have to > designate the funds specifically for non-game habitat > enhancement/protection/restoration rather than other uses like removing > habitat ("invasive" species like Russian Olives) and predators. > > While we're on the subject instead of requiring purchase of a Duck Stamp > how about a Wildlife Viewing Stamp to access NWRs that would generate funds > specifically for habitat improvements that benefit species other the > waterfowl? I have no objection to supporting NWRs and their current agenda > but Camas could certainly use some help generating funds for non-waterfowl > projects. I'd gladly contribute to that too. > > Cliff > > > Dave Burrup wrote: > > > > The proposal only covers F&G management areas. These areas were purchased > with fees from hunting, not tax dollars. So in essence they are private > land. I have thought for a long time that access to these lands should > require a valid hunting license for everyone using the properties. I also > think it justifiable that the Federal refuges should require a valid Duck > stamp. > Dave > South East Idaho > > ----- Original Message ----- > *From:* Robert Mortensen > *To:* Ible AT Yahoogroups.Com > *Sent:* Friday, February 05, 2010 7:58 AM > *Subject:* [IBLE] Idaho Wildlife Viewing Fees > > > > My initial reaction to potential wildlife viewing fees was "You've got to > be kidding me!" IBLE comments have been interesting and generally > supportive of some type of fee structure. My own opinion has been tempered > with new understanding. I even have some ideas about how it may be done most > effectively while still holding fast to my political principles. If you're > interested, check out my most recent post at http://avimor.blogspot.com. > > Happy Birding! > > ---------------------------------- > > *Robert Mortensen* > > Avimor Birding Blog > > 208-939-0343 office > > 208-921-1202 mobile > > robert.mortensen AT suncorID.com > > > -- > Cliff and Lisa Weisse > Island Park, Idahocliffandlisa AT octobersetters.com > > >
Subject: Re: Idaho Wildlife Viewing Fees
From: Cliff and Lisa Weisse <cliffandlisa AT octobersetters.com>
Date: Fri, 05 Feb 2010 09:33:00 -0700

Actually they're not private land. They may have been purchased using revenues from license fees but they are public lands managed by a government agency. I have no objection to paying a use fee for WMAs. I already buy hunting and fishing licenses every year and would pay extra for the non-game use license. However I would not be willing to pay for the WMA license if the funds generated go into the general F & G fundss. They would have to designate the funds specifically for non-game habitat enhancement/protection/restoration rather than other uses like removing habitat ("invasive" species like Russian Olives) and predators. While we're on the subject instead of requiring purchase of a Duck Stamp how about a Wildlife Viewing Stamp to access NWRs that would generate funds specifically for habitat improvements that benefit species other the waterfowl? I have no objection to supporting NWRs and their current agenda but Camas could certainly use some help generating funds for non-waterfowl projects. I'd gladly contribute to that too. Cliff Dave Burrup wrote: > > > The proposal only covers F&G management areas. These areas were > purchased with fees from hunting, not tax dollars. So in essence they > are private land. I have thought for a long time that access to these > lands should require a valid hunting license for everyone using the > properties. I also think it justifiable that the Federal refuges > should require a valid Duck stamp. > Dave > South East Idaho > > ----- Original Message ----- > *From:* Robert Mortensen > *To:* Ible AT Yahoogroups.Com > *Sent:* Friday, February 05, 2010 7:58 AM > *Subject:* [IBLE] Idaho Wildlife Viewing Fees > > > > My initial reaction to potential wildlife viewing fees was "You've > got to be kidding me!" IBLE comments have been interesting and > generally supportive of some type of fee structure. My own > opinion has been tempered with new understanding. I even have some > ideas about how it may be done most effectively while still > holding fast to my political principles. If you're interested, > check out my most recent post at http://avimor.blogspot.com > . > > Happy Birding! > > ---------------------------------- > > *Robert Mortensen* > > Avimor Birding Blog > > 208-939-0343 office > > 208-921-1202 mobile > > robert.mortensen AT suncorID.com > > -- Cliff and Lisa Weisse Island Park, Idaho cliffandlisa AT octobersetters.com
Subject: Wildlife Tax Earmarks
From: "lcarrigan_55" <lcarrigan_55 AT yahoo.com>
Date: Fri, 05 Feb 2010 16:24:41 -0000

I've been following the recent posts on state taxation for wildlife viewing with interest. I don't think anybody really "enjoys" taxes, however, I also watched how close Idaho came to possibly having some state park closures occur because of decreased state funds. Doesn't a portion of the sales of binoculars, spotting scopes, etc. go into a federal program for wildlife? And, if so, how is that money earmarked? Maybe my recollection of such a program is wrong, but seems I remember such. Also seems Idaho F&G could expand their "Watchable Wildlife" program and through whatever method chosen (targeted sales tax, stamp, etc.)ensure the $$$ would be spent for habitat, etc. As well, doesn't a similar program already exist with the wildlife license plate program and doesn't that program help non-game species? I do hunt and fish, in addition to watching wildlife, and purchase the federal waterfowl stamp, have one vehicle tagged with an Idaho elk plate and also mark the $1 addition for non-game species when purchasing a hunting tag. I absolutely agree that the funds need to be earmarked for habitat and non-game, as that benefits all species, preserves watersheds, etc. and, of course, benefits big game as well. Tough decisions for tough times. Brian Carrigan Blackfoot
Subject: GBBC article in Idaho Statesman
From: "Robert Mortensen" <robert.mortensen AT suncorid.com>
Date: Fri, 5 Feb 2010 09:12:01 -0700

Natalie Bartley had another great article in the Statesman today, this one about the Great Backyard Bird Count. Check it out here: http://www.idahostatesman.com/outdoors/story/1068744.html Happy Birding! ---------------------------------- Robert Mortensen Avimor Birding Blog 208-939-0343 office 208-921-1202 mobile robert.mortensen AT suncorID.com
Subject: Re: Idaho Wildlife Viewing Fees
From: "Dave Burrup" <dkburp AT frontiernet.net>
Date: Fri, 5 Feb 2010 08:51:05 -0700

The proposal only covers F&G management areas. These areas were purchased with fees from hunting, not tax dollars. So in essence they are private land. I have thought for a long time that access to these lands should require a valid hunting license for everyone using the properties. I also think it justifiable that the Federal refuges should require a valid Duck stamp. Dave South East Idaho ----- Original Message ----- From: Robert Mortensen To: Ible AT Yahoogroups.Com Sent: Friday, February 05, 2010 7:58 AM Subject: [IBLE] Idaho Wildlife Viewing Fees My initial reaction to potential wildlife viewing fees was "You've got to be kidding me!" IBLE comments have been interesting and generally supportive of some type of fee structure. My own opinion has been tempered with new understanding. I even have some ideas about how it may be done most effectively while still holding fast to my political principles. If you're interested, check out my most recent post at http://avimor.blogspot.com. Happy Birding! ---------------------------------- Robert Mortensen Avimor Birding Blog 208-939-0343 office 208-921-1202 mobile robert.mortensen AT suncorID.com
Subject: Idaho Wildlife Viewing Fees
From: "Robert Mortensen" <robert.mortensen AT suncorid.com>
Date: Fri, 5 Feb 2010 07:58:32 -0700

My initial reaction to potential wildlife viewing fees was "You've got to be kidding me!" IBLE comments have been interesting and generally supportive of some type of fee structure. My own opinion has been tempered with new understanding. I even have some ideas about how it may be done most effectively while still holding fast to my political principles. If you're interested, check out my most recent post at http://avimor.blogspot.com. Happy Birding! ---------------------------------- Robert Mortensen Avimor Birding Blog 208-939-0343 office 208-921-1202 mobile robert.mortensen AT suncorID.com
Subject: Southwestern Idaho Birders Association, 2/11/2010, 7:00 pm
From: ible AT yahoogroups.com
Date: 5 Feb 2010 01:55:27 -0000

Reminder from: ible Yahoo! Group http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ible/cal Southwestern Idaho Birders Association Thursday February 11, 2010 7:00 pm - 8:45 pm (The next reminder for this event will be sent in 4 days, 4 minutes.) Location: Visitor Center, Deer Flat NWR, Lake Lowell, Nampa, ID Notes: "Conserving Columbia Wildlife" presented by Matt Miller will be the evening program. All Rights Reserved Copyright © 2010 Yahoo! Inc. http://www.yahoo.com Privacy Policy: http://privacy.yahoo.com/privacy/us Terms of Service: http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/
Subject: Marsing's Island Park
From: Denise Hughes <idahobirder AT hotmail.com>
Date: Thu, 4 Feb 2010 17:55:35 -0700

If you are interested in the upcoming changes that will take place in Marsing at Island Park, there will be a city council meeting on Wednesday, February 10th. The meeting will start at 7 p.m. If you want to speak, contact Goldie (phone # 896-4122) at the Marsing City Hall be contacted by Friday morning. Denise Hughes Caldwell, ID idahobirder AT hotmail.com It is our collective and individual responsibility to preserve and tend to the environment in which we all live....Dali Lama
Subject: Re: taxing birding
From: Dave Mead <dv_mead AT yahoo.com>
Date: Thu, 4 Feb 2010 09:34:21 -0800 (PST)

Thanks, Rohn. To correct myself, MDC's Design for Conservation passed 34 years ago - - not 24. It's high time for the western states to get on track! ________________________________ From: Rohn To: Dave Mead Sent: Thu, February 4, 2010 9:25:46 AM Subject: Re: [IBLE] taxing birding I agree! Add to sales tax We would have to pay 10,000 per licence to make any difference in this states wildlife managment. Then that wouldn't be enough. We have one warden in our area patrolling the same size area in Wyoming (Jackson) that has 6 officers. On Feb 4, 2010, at 8:57 AM, Dave Mead wrote: > > > > > >> > >As a long-time birder (and taxpayer) I have no problem with paying extra to watch birds. However, the only equitable, sustainable method to support state conservation programs is to adopt a new tax incentive exclusively for the Idaho Fish & Game. Perhaps I'm stating the obvious (or the perceived impossible) but it's truly the only way that we can expect sound biological practices and acceptable non-game policies. The 'Design for Conservation' campaign successfully promoted such legislation for the Missouri Department of Conservation to set aside one-eighth of one percent sales tax directly to the agency in 1976. That was 24 years ago! Now it is time for western states to quit depending upon the Hook-n'-Bullet crowd for conservation funding! Everyone should pay!!! > >Dave Mead > > > >
Subject: taxing birding
From: Dave Mead <dv_mead AT yahoo.com>
Date: Thu, 4 Feb 2010 07:57:33 -0800 (PST)

As a long-time birder (and taxpayer) I have no problem with paying extra to watch birds. However, the only equitable, sustainable method to support state conservation programs is to adopt a new tax incentive exclusively for the Idaho Fish & Game. Perhaps I'm stating the obvious (or the perceived impossible) but it's truly the only way that we can expect sound biological practices and acceptable non-game policies. The 'Design for Conservation' campaign successfully promoted such legislation for the Missouri Department of Conservation to set aside one-eighth of one percent sales tax directly to the agency in 1976. That was 24 years ago! Now it is time for western states to quit depending upon the Hook-n'-Bullet crowd for conservation funding! Everyone should pay!!! Dave Mead
Subject: 210 in 2010: eBird Idaho - week five
From: "Robert Mortensen" <robert.mortensen AT suncorid.com>
Date: Thu, 4 Feb 2010 08:37:43 -0700

New leader board posted at http://avimor.blogspot.com. There has been quite a bit of movement among the leaders recently. Also a big thank you to the seven new Idaho eBirders who submitted checklists in the last week! Happy Birding! ---------------------------------- Robert Mortensen Avimor Birding Blog 208-939-0343 office 208-921-1202 mobile robert.mortensen AT suncorID.com
Subject: RE: FW: [BIRDCHAT] Training in Counting Flocks of Birds
From: Denise Hughes <idahobirder AT hotmail.com>
Date: Wed, 3 Feb 2010 19:17:56 -0700

When I clicked on the website, my norton antivirus popped up saying it was an unsafe site. Denise Hughes Caldwell, ID idahobirder AT hotmail.com It is our collective and individual responsibility to preserve and tend to the environment in which we all live....Dali Lama To: ible AT yahoogroups.com From: onwingsof_Pearl AT Hotmail.com Date: Wed, 3 Feb 2010 18:31:58 -0700 Subject: [IBLE] FW: [BIRDCHAT] Training in Counting Flocks of Birds try this link below...it will help with the counting thing...I try to do mine in fives... > With Christmas Bird Counts next month, I thought an ingenious website, > pointed out to the members of BIRDWG01 by Matthew Garvey in relation to a > thread on counting flocks of birds, deserved wider publicity. > > So if you count large flocks of birds, you might want to test and hone your > skills at: http://personal.inet.fi/cool/live/birds/index.html > > Don't be put off by the initial foreign language.... just wait for the > "game" to load and press new game. > > Joel Weintraub > Dana Point, CA > > BirdChat Guidelines: http://www.ksu.edu/audubon/chatguidelines.html > Archives: http://listserv.arizona.edu/archives/birdchat.html
Subject: FW: [BIRDCHAT] Training in Counting Flocks of Birds
From: Michael Wiegand <onwingsof_Pearl AT Hotmail.com>
Date: Wed, 3 Feb 2010 18:31:58 -0700

try this link below...it will help with the counting thing...I try to do mine in fives... > With Christmas Bird Counts next month, I thought an ingenious website, > pointed out to the members of BIRDWG01 by Matthew Garvey in relation to a > thread on counting flocks of birds, deserved wider publicity. > > So if you count large flocks of birds, you might want to test and hone your > skills at: http://personal.inet.fi/cool/live/birds/index.html > > Don't be put off by the initial foreign language.... just wait for the > "game" to load and press new game. > > Joel Weintraub > Dana Point, CA > > BirdChat Guidelines: http://www.ksu.edu/audubon/chatguidelines.html > Archives: http://listserv.arizona.edu/archives/birdchat.html
Subject: Ada Co. Landfill & Hyatt Wetlands today
From: rowlandrl AT aol.com
Date: Wed, 3 Feb 2010 20:19:38 EST

"ible", RL here. Gary Worthington & I were back at the Ada Co. Landfill today to hopefully get new overwintering status on some birds. We got one of the wanteds but not the other. Today's haul: Too many 1000's of Starlings Good numbers of both Crows & Ravens One immature Bald Eagle, 2nd or 3rdyr. Two Red-tailed Hawks Near 1000 (+ or -) Ring-billed & California Gulls (about 60/40 in order), all age groups today & more California's than we have seen so far this season 17 Herring Gulls, numbers still down 1 ea. 2ndyr. Glaucous Gull, possible 1st overwintering for this bird in Latilong 17. Dec. 09, Jan. 10 & today Feb. 10. 1 ea. 1styr. Glaucous-winged Gull That's it, no Thayer's, no Kumlien's nor any other Iceland this day Will try again tomorrow. After dropping Gary off back home I went on to Hyatt Wetlands to try for an overwintering Virginia Rail & got the little rascal. Three sightings, one in each winter month, 20 Dec. 09, 29 Jan.10 & 03 Feb.10. Now my question about status changes for the Idaho Bird Distribution program. Do I fill out separate forms for each bird sighted for each month or is it acceptable to just do an email with sightings dates & finders names? Please advise. Good Birding. RL
Subject: Supporting Wildlife
From: Rohn <rohnbm AT yahoo.com>
Date: Wed, 3 Feb 2010 17:13:37 -0800 (PST)

I support the proposal to seek financial support from non consuptive users of wildlife and it's habitats. Maybe we would enjoy more representation on the board of directors. This is a government agency that is poorly funded. They can't even begin to address the poaching problems in this state. Rohn
Subject: RE: Idaho F&G may want to tax bird watching!???
From: Denise Hughes <idahobirder AT hotmail.com>
Date: Wed, 3 Feb 2010 17:53:42 -0700

I purchase a Federal duck stamp every year. I don't hunt but I do want to support the government purchases of habitat. I'd be willing to pay a fee for wildlife watching. But the money would have to be used for non game projects. Unfortunately, I think Fish and Game would funnel the money to the Big Game program. Denise Hughes Caldwell, ID idahobirder AT hotmail.com It is our collective and individual responsibility to preserve and tend to the environment in which we all live....Dali Lama To: robert.mortensen AT suncorid.com; ible AT yahoogroups.com From: riversilt AT hotmail.com Date: Wed, 3 Feb 2010 14:15:07 -0700 Subject: RE: [IBLE] Idaho F&G may want to tax bird watching!??? I think it's an excellent idea to figure out a way to tax or sell licenses to bird watchers. It would be great if the money was then spent on habitat acquisition, preservation, and access. I'm not sure the best way to go about it, but I've always supported the idea. I'd gladly pay 25-50 dollars a year to view wildlife on State or Federal land. I know in Louisiana in order to access wildlife management areas one had to either have a hunting, fishing, or non-game wildlife viewing license and it worked quite well I think. Darren Clark Rexburg, ID riversilt AT hotmail.com To: ible AT yahoogroups.com From: robert.mortensen AT suncorid.com Date: Wed, 3 Feb 2010 03:36:14 +0000 Subject: [IBLE] Idaho F&G may want to tax bird watching!??? Huh? http://www.spokesman.com/blogs/boise/2010/feb/02/fish-game-looks-tap-non-hunting-wildlife-viewers/ Hotmail: Trusted email with Microsoft’s powerful SPAM protection. Sign up now.
Subject: Re: Northern Shrike: Foote Park
From: jonathan stoke <helio_jonathan AT yahoo.com>
Date: Wed, 3 Feb 2010 13:43:12 -0800 (PST)

The Northern Shrike was there today.Ā If one walks up the path / creek from the restroom, at a point not too far uphill, the road (closed to motor vehicles) crosses the creek (devoid of water this time of year) at a sandy area.Ā The Shrike was in that area, atop the highest point of a small tree amid the willows. Ā Thank you for the advice to be on the lookout for a Shrike there. 68 Canada GooseĀ Branta canadensis 2 MallardĀ Anas platyrhynchos 2 Golden EagleĀ Aquila chrysaetos 1 American KestrelĀ Falco sparverius 1 Northern ShrikeĀ Lanius excubitor 2 Black-billed MagpieĀ Pica hudsonia 2 Common RavenĀ Corvus corax 1 Ruby-crowned KingletĀ Regulus calendula 23 Dark-eyed JuncoĀ Junco hyemalis Ā jonathan stoke, Boise --- On Fri, 1/22/10, jonb48 wrote: From: jonb48 Subject: [IBLE] Northern Shrike: Foote Park To: ible AT yahoogroups.com Date: Friday, January 22, 2010, 5:05 PM Ā I went out to the park today during the lunch hour and found a Northern Shrike. I know this is the expected shrike, but I see a number of Ebird winter sightings of Loggerhead in Idaho. I was able to scope it and saw the Northern field marks: limited black mask, distinctly hooked bill, barred breast, yellowish lower mandible, white rump. It was perched atop the tree on your right along the road down the slope toward the parking area. It flew off as I was walking down the road, but, after a short while, came back to the same place for a few minutes before flying off again. After walking down to the river and back, I found it again atop this same tree. I saw a shrike in the park on November 25th, but too briefly for me to ID--perhaps the same individual. So, if you want to see it, it may hang around for a while, although I have made eight other trips to the park since that sighting and haven't seen it again until today, so you might have to do some searching. It will fly into the brush below the tree if anything approaches, so you might want to park in the pullover at the top of the slope and walk down the road to where you can see the tree top. If you don't find it there, you might try looking around the Barclay Bay parking lot, which is the direction I saw it fly at one point. The November shrike was up the foot path atop the lone tree on your right just past the last stand of trees on your left. The foot path starts behind the picnic table. John Battalio Boise
Subject: RE: Idaho F&G may want to tax bird watching!???
From: Darren Clark <riversilt AT hotmail.com>
Date: Wed, 3 Feb 2010 14:15:07 -0700

I think it's an excellent idea to figure out a way to tax or sell licenses to bird watchers. It would be great if the money was then spent on habitat acquisition, preservation, and access. I'm not sure the best way to go about it, but I've always supported the idea. I'd gladly pay 25-50 dollars a year to view wildlife on State or Federal land. I know in Louisiana in order to access wildlife management areas one had to either have a hunting, fishing, or non-game wildlife viewing license and it worked quite well I think. Darren Clark Rexburg, ID riversilt AT hotmail.com To: ible AT yahoogroups.com From: robert.mortensen AT suncorid.com Date: Wed, 3 Feb 2010 03:36:14 +0000 Subject: [IBLE] Idaho F&G may want to tax bird watching!??? Huh? http://www.spokesman.com/blogs/boise/2010/feb/02/fish-game-looks-tap-non-hunting-wildlife-viewers/ _________________________________________________________________ Hotmail: Trusted email with Microsoft’s powerful SPAM protection. http://clk.atdmt.com/GBL/go/201469226/direct/01/
Subject: Re: Common Snipe in Teton Valley
From: Cliff and Lisa Weisse <cliffandlisa AT octobersetters.com>
Date: Wed, 03 Feb 2010 07:52:14 -0700

And I would be heading to Teton Valley immediately. As for the Island Park sightings you are correct, they were Wilson's Snipe. Cliff David Lawrence wrote: > > > I am assuming that this report is actually referring to what we now > call Wilson's Snipe. If in fact it is a Common Snipe according to the > split that took place 3-4 years ago this would be a monumental sighting. > > > > Dave Lawrence > > Nampa, ID 83651 > > > > ------------------------------------------------------------------------ > > *From:* ible AT yahoogroups.com [mailto:ible AT yahoogroups.com] *On Behalf > Of *Cliff and Lisa Weisse > *Sent:* Wednesday, February 03, 2010 7:33 AM > *To:* IBLE > *Subject:* Re: [IBLE] Common Snipe in Teton Valley > > > > > > Rohn, > > I occasionally see snipe around springs in the Island Park area during > winter, specifically on the west side of the Henry's Fork about half > way between Island Park Dam and Harriman State Park. I've always felt > I could overwinter the species (sightings in all three winter months) > but I'd have to ski into the locations and just haven't done it yet. > I've also seen them north of Newdale. > > Cliff > > Rohn wrote: > >> >> >> Spotted and photographed a common Snipe on a tributary spring of the >> Teton river. Is this a common visitor to high Mt valleys covered with >> snow? >> I also witnessed mating behavior of a common Goldeneye this morning. >> Wasn't prepared for the unusual display, very entertaining. >> Rohn >> > > > -- > Cliff and Lisa Weisse > Island Park, Idaho > cliffandlisa AT octobersetters.com > > __________ Information from ESET NOD32 Antivirus, version of virus > signature database 4831 (20100203) __________ > > The message was checked by ESET NOD32 Antivirus. > > http://www.eset.com > -- Cliff and Lisa Weisse Island Park, Idaho cliffandlisa AT octobersetters.com
Subject: RE: Common Snipe in Teton Valley
From: "David Lawrence" <lawde13 AT cableone.net>
Date: Wed, 3 Feb 2010 07:45:28 -0700

I am assuming that this report is actually referring to what we now call Wilson's Snipe. If in fact it is a Common Snipe according to the split that took place 3-4 years ago this would be a monumental sighting. Dave Lawrence Nampa, ID 83651 _____ From: ible AT yahoogroups.com [mailto:ible AT yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Cliff and Lisa Weisse Sent: Wednesday, February 03, 2010 7:33 AM To: IBLE Subject: Re: [IBLE] Common Snipe in Teton Valley Rohn, I occasionally see snipe around springs in the Island Park area during winter, specifically on the west side of the Henry's Fork about half way between Island Park Dam and Harriman State Park. I've always felt I could overwinter the species (sightings in all three winter months) but I'd have to ski into the locations and just haven't done it yet. I've also seen them north of Newdale. Cliff Rohn wrote: Spotted and photographed a common Snipe on a tributary spring of the Teton river. Is this a common visitor to high Mt valleys covered with snow? I also witnessed mating behavior of a common Goldeneye this morning. Wasn't prepared for the unusual display, very entertaining. Rohn -- Cliff and Lisa Weisse Island Park, Idaho cliffandlisa AT octobersetters.com __________ Information from ESET NOD32 Antivirus, version of virus signature database 4831 (20100203) __________ The message was checked by ESET NOD32 Antivirus. http://www.eset.com
Subject: Re: Common Snipe in Teton Valley
From: Cliff and Lisa Weisse <cliffandlisa AT octobersetters.com>
Date: Wed, 03 Feb 2010 07:33:03 -0700

Rohn, I occasionally see snipe around springs in the Island Park area during winter, specifically on the west side of the Henry's Fork about half way between Island Park Dam and Harriman State Park. I've always felt I could overwinter the species (sightings in all three winter months) but I'd have to ski into the locations and just haven't done it yet. I've also seen them north of Newdale. Cliff Rohn wrote: > > > Spotted and photographed a common Snipe on a tributary spring of the > Teton river. Is this a common visitor to high Mt valleys covered with > snow? > I also witnessed mating behavior of a common Goldeneye this morning. > Wasn't prepared for the unusual display, very entertaining. > Rohn > > -- Cliff and Lisa Weisse Island Park, Idaho cliffandlisa AT octobersetters.com
Subject: Common Snipe in Teton Valley
From: "Rohn" <rohnbm AT yahoo.com>
Date: Wed, 03 Feb 2010 03:50:14 -0000

Spotted and photographed a common Snipe on a tributary spring of the Teton river. Is this a common visitor to high Mt valleys covered with snow? I also witnessed mating behavior of a common Goldeneye this morning. Wasn't prepared for the unusual display, very entertaining. Rohn
Subject: Idaho F&G may want to tax bird watching!???
From: "rkmorten" <robert.mortensen AT suncorid.com>
Date: Wed, 03 Feb 2010 03:36:14 -0000

Huh? http://www.spokesman.com/blogs/boise/2010/feb/02/fish-game-looks-tap-non-hunting-wildlife-viewers/
Subject: No Kumlien's or Glaucous today
From: rowlandrl AT aol.com
Date: Tue, 2 Feb 2010 01:46:20 EST

"Ible", RL here. Gary Worthington & I went "ta da dump ta-day" in the fog. Met a third birder there, Tad. Gull numbers down from last week's tally. Only about 800, 70/30 ratio of Ring-billeds/Californias. Herrings were only about 1/2 with 18 birds. The east Idaho guys finding of a 1st year Thayer's was still there from Saturday; no adults, no Iceland no Glaucous. These birds will start moving about as the weather gets milder. I've asked Cheryl Huizinga to check at Pickle's Butte & see what might be there. Anyone else is welcome. Only 22 dump visiting days left in February. Go early. Go often. Good Birding. RL
Subject: 2010 Canyon Co. List
From: "Cheryl Huizinga" <bchuizinga AT cableone.net>
Date: Mon, 1 Feb 2010 21:39:43 -0700

Hi Birders, Here's the latest additions to the Canyon Co. List for 2010. I've been gone to AZ to visit daughter and Gkids and got to do some birding while there. Finally got my nemisis AZ bird - the Montezuma Quail! Life is Good!! Happy Birding!! Cheryl Huizinga bchuizinga AT cableone.net 67. California Gull - 1/16 - Pickles Butte Landfill - RL Rowland 68. Herring Gull - 1/16 - Pickles Butte Landfill - RL Rowland 69. Common Raven - 1/16 - Pickles Butte Landfill - RL Rowland 70. Barrow's Goldeneye -1/16 - Snake River - RL Rowland 71. Double-crested Cormorant - 1/16 - Snake River - RL Rowland 72. Eurasian Wigeon - 1/23 - Pacific Press Pond - Dave Lawrence 73. Great Egret - 1/23 - Notus Area - Denise Hughes/ Letty Percifield 74. Song Sparrow - 1/23 - Ft. Boise WMA - Denise Hughes /Letty Percifield 75. Ross's Goose - 1/23 - Hwy 19 by Simplot Plant - Denise Hughes/Letty Percifield 76. Black-capped Chickadee - 1/30 - Ft. Boise WMA - Louie Quintana/Harry Krueger 77. Bewick's Wren - 1/30 - Ft. Boise WMA - Louie Quintana/Harry Krueger 78. White-crowned Sparrow - 1/30 - Ft. Boise WMA - Louie Quintana/Harry Krueger 79. Red-breasted Nuthatch - 1/30 - Canyon Hill Cemetery - Louie Quintana/Harry Krueger 80. Red-breasted Merganser - 1/30 - Lake Lowell Lower Dam - Louie Quintana/Harry Krueger 81. Say's Phoebe - 1/31 - Lake Lowell Lower Dam - Cheryl Huizinga
Subject: RE: Green Heron at Marsing
From: "David Lawrence" <lawde13 AT cableone.net>
Date: Mon, 1 Feb 2010 18:32:39 -0700

Jim's observation of the Green Heron this morning, means that it has now been seen in Dec, Jan, and Feb and has thus overwintered. Second year in a row. Dave Lawrence Nampa, ID 83651 _____ From: ible AT yahoogroups.com [mailto:ible AT yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Jim & Bev Holcomb Sent: Monday, February 01, 2010 3:53 PM To: ible Subject: [IBLE] Green Heron at Marsing Went looking for the Green Heron at Marsing's Island Park this morning, a fourth try in as many weeks. Persistence pays as the heron was found in the usual area north of the Snake River bridge. At first it was along the west side of the slough near the highway where the water flows down into the pond. Then it flew a short distance north along the water edge and perched in a small branch near the water. For a moment, its attention seemed to be directed to a kingfisher perched nearby, but then it dropped into a clump of thick long grass to roost with only its back barely visible. Total time watching the heron was about 20 minutes. Jim Holcomb Nampa __________ Information from ESET NOD32 Antivirus, version of virus signature database 4825 (20100201) __________ The message was checked by ESET NOD32 Antivirus. http://www.eset.com
Subject: Green Heron at Marsing
From: "Jim & Bev Holcomb" <jnbholcomb AT earthlink.net>
Date: Mon, 1 Feb 2010 15:52:31 -0700

Went looking for the Green Heron at Marsing's Island Park this morning, a fourth try in as many weeks. Persistence pays as the heron was found in the usual area north of the Snake River bridge. At first it was along the west side of the slough near the highway where the water flows down into the pond. Then it flew a short distance north along the water edge and perched in a small branch near the water. For a moment, its attention seemed to be directed to a kingfisher perched nearby, but then it dropped into a clump of thick long grass to roost with only its back barely visible. Total time watching the heron was about 20 minutes. Jim Holcomb Nampa
Subject: Re: Iceland Gull Chase and other stuff.
From: Cliff and Lisa Weisse <cliffandlisa AT octobersetters.com>
Date: Mon, 01 Feb 2010 10:34:11 -0700

Charles, Thanks for the info. If anyone is in the Hagerman area this month and sees this bird please report it so we can over winter the species for the Latilong. Thanks in advance. Cliff Charles Swift wrote: > > Hi All - > > The Snowy Egret (along w/ 7 Great Egrets) was reported on the Hagerman > CBC so has apparently been around for a while. I'll have to check but > it probably is the first Idaho CBC record for that species. > > Charles. > > On Sun, Jan 31, 2010 at 8:43 PM, Darren Clark > wrote: > > > > Cliff, Steve, and I decided to take a quick dash to the Boise area > over the weekend in hopes of seeing the reported Iceland Gull from > the Boise Dump. We also planned to get in a little birding at > Hagerman WMA and along the Snake River near Grandview. We had a > good time and the weather was great for us eastern Idaho birders > (cloudy and around 40 degrees most of the time we were birding) It > was just nice to be somewhere without snow for a couple of days. > > We hit Hagerman at about 2:30 and birded the area until dark. At > Hagerman we found a Snowy Egret (apparently undocumented in winter > for Idaho), 30 Black-crowned Night Herons, 3-4 Cackling Geese, an > obliging Canyon Wren, and a bunch of waterfowl. > > We arrived at the Ada County Landfill at around 8:30 and the gulls > started arriving shortly thereafter. We eventually found the adult > Iceland Gull at 9:30 or so (what a gorgeous bird). We found an > intriguing first winter Gull that may be an Iceland Gull. We > couldn't find a Glaucous Gull, but we counted 28 Herring Gulls > and there were probably around 750 Ring-billed Gulls and half that > many California Gulls. We also found a couple Thayer's Gulls (one > adult and one juvenile). > > We then made our way down to Ted Trueblood WMA near Grand View > where we had a Glaucous-Winged Gull, a couple of Lincoln's > Sparrows, and 4 Savannah Sparrows among other things. > > Our next stop was CJ Strike Reservoir where we found a big > foraging flock of songbirds that included several Yellow-rumped > Warblers, and an Orange-crowned Warbler. CJ Strike Reservoir was > pretty empty, but we did find 4 Mountain Bluebirds at the entrace > to Jack's Creek WMA. On the way home we found a big mixed flock of > Blackbirds (estimated 600 Red-winged Blackbirds, 400 Brewer's > Blackbirds, and 150 Yellow-headed Blackbirds) between Bruneau and > Glenns Ferry. > > There are several photographs including the Snowy Egret, Canyon > Wren, Cackling Goose, Iceland Gull, and the interesting 1st Winter > Gull from the Ada County Landfill on my blog. > http://www.darrenclarkphoto.net/blog/2010/01/winter-birding-iii.html > > > Darren Clark > Rexburg, ID > riversilt AT hotmail.com > > > ------------------------------------------------------------------------ > Hotmail: Trusted email with powerful SPAM protection. Sign up now. > > > > > > -- > Charles Swift > Moscow, ID > chaetura AT gmail.com > -- Cliff and Lisa Weisse Island Park, Idaho cliffandlisa AT octobersetters.com
Subject: Re: Iceland Gull Chase and other stuff.
From: Charles Swift <chaetura AT gmail.com>
Date: Mon, 1 Feb 2010 09:19:17 -0800

Hi All - The Snowy Egret (along w/ 7 Great Egrets) was reported on the Hagerman CBC so has apparently been around for a while. I'll have to check but it probably is the first Idaho CBC record for that species. Charles. On Sun, Jan 31, 2010 at 8:43 PM, Darren Clark wrote: > > > Cliff, Steve, and I decided to take a quick dash to the Boise area over the > weekend in hopes of seeing the reported Iceland Gull from the Boise Dump. We > also planned to get in a little birding at Hagerman WMA and along the Snake > River near Grandview. We had a good time and the weather was great for us > eastern Idaho birders (cloudy and around 40 degrees most of the time we were > birding) It was just nice to be somewhere without snow for a couple of days. > > > We hit Hagerman at about 2:30 and birded the area until dark. At Hagerman > we found a Snowy Egret (apparently undocumented in winter for Idaho), 30 > Black-crowned Night Herons, 3-4 Cackling Geese, an obliging Canyon Wren, and > a bunch of waterfowl. > > We arrived at the Ada County Landfill at around 8:30 and the gulls started > arriving shortly thereafter. We eventually found the adult Iceland Gull at > 9:30 or so (what a gorgeous bird). We found an intriguing first winter Gull > that may be an Iceland Gull. We couldn't find a Glaucous Gull, but we > counted 28 Herring Gulls and there were probably around 750 Ring-billed > Gulls and half that many California Gulls. We also found a couple Thayer's > Gulls (one adult and one juvenile). > > We then made our way down to Ted Trueblood WMA near Grand View where we had > a Glaucous-Winged Gull, a couple of Lincoln's Sparrows, and 4 Savannah > Sparrows among other things. > > Our next stop was CJ Strike Reservoir where we found a big foraging flock > of songbirds that included several Yellow-rumped Warblers, and an > Orange-crowned Warbler. CJ Strike Reservoir was pretty empty, but we did > find 4 Mountain Bluebirds at the entrace to Jack's Creek WMA. On the way > home we found a big mixed flock of Blackbirds (estimated 600 Red-winged > Blackbirds, 400 Brewer's Blackbirds, and 150 Yellow-headed Blackbirds) > between Bruneau and Glenns Ferry. > > There are several photographs including the Snowy Egret, Canyon Wren, > Cackling Goose, Iceland Gull, and the interesting 1st Winter Gull from the > Ada County Landfill on my blog. > http://www.darrenclarkphoto.net/blog/2010/01/winter-birding-iii.html > > Darren Clark > Rexburg, ID > riversilt AT hotmail.com > > > ------------------------------ > Hotmail: Trusted email with powerful SPAM protection. Sign up now. > > > -- Charles Swift Moscow, ID chaetura AT gmail.com
Subject: Idaho Birder: Peggy Williams
From: "Robert Mortensen" <robert.mortensen AT suncorid.com>
Date: Mon, 1 Feb 2010 08:31:27 -0700

Today's Idaho Birder Profile features Peggy Williams who was willing to endure about anything to see a Clapper Rail! Check it out here at http://avimor.blogspot.com Upcoming interviews will feature Brian Cooper, Rich Rusnak, and Brian Sturges. Happy Birding! ---------------------------------- Robert Mortensen Avimor Birding Blog 208-939-0343 office 208-921-1202 mobile robert.mortensen AT suncorID.com
Subject: File - IBLE Guidelines.txt
From: ible AT yahoogroups.com
Date: 1 Feb 2010 09:03:30 -0000

We function in an unmoderated mode, and generally everything is pleasant and courteous. We have no official charter or list of rules, but do try to operate under the following general guidelines. 1) All messages are to be signed by the poster, using his/her real name. Along with the name, it is considered good practice to also show your e-mail address, and city from which you post. 2) Messages reporting sightings, should also provide at least minimal information as to where the sighting took place, i.e., State, County, City/Town. Major birding destinations such as Deer Flat NWR, Minidoka NWR, American Falls Reservoir, etc. may be adequate in some situations. However, if the sighting is expected to generate interest sufficient to have other birders travel to view the bird, more detailed directions should be provided, or the name and contact info for someone willing to supply such directions on request. 3) Messages concerning caged birds, feral cats, etc. are strongly discouraged. 4) Messages conveying derogatory statements about any other person, a person's occupation or motives are strictly forbidden, and will be cause for one's membership to be suspended or even terminated for severe or repeated offenses. 5) It is permissible to post digital images to the list, but not more than 1 or 2 at a time and not in excess of 150K total. More extensive collections should be posted to the "Photos" section of the IBLE website. Contact the listowner, if you need more details. Again, enjoy your membership on IBLE, and we look forward to reading your contributions to the group. Cliff Weisse, owner/moderator cliffandlisa AT octobersetters.com Island Park, ID Jane Westervelt, owner/moderator jwestervelt AT live.com Moscow, ID
Subject: Iceland Gull Chase and other stuff.
From: Darren Clark <riversilt AT hotmail.com>
Date: Sun, 31 Jan 2010 21:43:22 -0700

Cliff, Steve, and I decided to take a quick dash to the Boise area over the weekend in hopes of seeing the reported Iceland Gull from the Boise Dump. We also planned to get in a little birding at Hagerman WMA and along the Snake River near Grandview. We had a good time and the weather was great for us eastern Idaho birders (cloudy and around 40 degrees most of the time we were birding) It was just nice to be somewhere without snow for a couple of days. We hit Hagerman at about 2:30 and birded the area until dark. At Hagerman we found a Snowy Egret (apparently undocumented in winter for Idaho), 30 Black-crowned Night Herons, 3-4 Cackling Geese, an obliging Canyon Wren, and a bunch of waterfowl. We arrived at the Ada County Landfill at around 8:30 and the gulls started arriving shortly thereafter. We eventually found the adult Iceland Gull at 9:30 or so (what a gorgeous bird). We found an intriguing first winter Gull that may be an Iceland Gull. We couldn't find a Glaucous Gull, but we counted 28 Herring Gulls and there were probably around 750 Ring-billed Gulls and half that many California Gulls. We also found a couple Thayer's Gulls (one adult and one juvenile). We then made our way down to Ted Trueblood WMA near Grand View where we had a Glaucous-Winged Gull, a couple of Lincoln's Sparrows, and 4 Savannah Sparrows among other things. Our next stop was CJ Strike Reservoir where we found a big foraging flock of songbirds that included several Yellow-rumped Warblers, and an Orange-crowned Warbler. CJ Strike Reservoir was pretty empty, but we did find 4 Mountain Bluebirds at the entrace to Jack's Creek WMA. On the way home we found a big mixed flock of Blackbirds (estimated 600 Red-winged Blackbirds, 400 Brewer's Blackbirds, and 150 Yellow-headed Blackbirds) between Bruneau and Glenns Ferry. There are several photographs including the Snowy Egret, Canyon Wren, Cackling Goose, Iceland Gull, and the interesting 1st Winter Gull from the Ada County Landfill on my blog. http://www.darrenclarkphoto.net/blog/2010/01/winter-birding-iii.html Darren Clark Rexburg, ID riversilt AT hotmail.com _________________________________________________________________ Hotmail: Trusted email with powerful SPAM protection. http://clk.atdmt.com/GBL/go/196390707/direct/01/
Subject: RFI Owls in Teton Co
From: "Katie" <krstull AT yahoo.com>
Date: Sun, 31 Jan 2010 23:55:02 -0000

Hi, I'll be driving through Teton Co and was wondering if there are any reports of owls in the area, particularly great grays. I've posted to the Teton, WY group about this because I'll be in Jackson as well (my apologies if you're getting my request for the second time), but I figured I could spend some time on the Idaho side too! Help is appreciated! :) Cheers, Katie Dillon, MT krstull AT yahoo.com
Subject: RE: Ft Boise, New Plymouth, Caldwell area
From: Denise Hughes <idahobirder AT hotmail.com>
Date: Sun, 31 Jan 2010 09:45:24 -0700

I'm surprised you didn't see any Snow Geese at Fort Boise. A large flock was seen flying over the Wilder golf course yesterday. Where were you when you heard the Bewick's wrens? Denise Hughes Caldwell, ID idahobirder AT hotmail.com It is our collective and individual responsibility to preserve and tend to the environment in which we all live....Dali Lama To: ible AT yahoogroups.com From: quintana.louie AT gmail.com Date: Sun, 31 Jan 2010 01:56:16 -0700 Subject: [IBLE] Ft Boise, New Plymouth, Caldwell area Hey, folks… On Saturday, the magnificent and benevolent Harry Krueger and I headed west of Boise for our own version of Manifest Destiny: “Go West, old dudes—Go West!” in search of that Bewick’s Wren! And we found them in spades! We started our day at Ft Boise WMA, and drove to the very end of the dirt road, alongside the Snake River, which was running high. We worked the ‘briars and brambles’ along the river and found the Bewick’s Wrens immediately; we heard at least 2, and maybe 3 of them, “heard” being the operative word here. They were loud in their vocalizations, but stayed out of sight. What we heard was clear and loud, and unmistakable. We just never were able to see them visually. But they are there! Also at Ft Boise, we found the following: American Kestrel Red-tailed Hawk Black-billed Magpie Red-shafted, Northern Flickers galore Song Sparrow White-crowned Sparrow Yellow rumped “Audubon’s” Warbler Dark-eyed, “Oregon” Junco European Starling American Robin American Crow Cedar Waxwing Black-capped Chickadee Canada Goose Mallard Ring-necked Duck Gadwall American Coot Ring-billed Gull Ring-necked Pheasant We then headed off to New Plymouth, in search of the Harris’ Sparrow, which we were unable to locate (not sure if it is there this year, but we looked!) We then spent time at the New Plymouth Sewage Ponds, and were able to see a nice selection of waterfowl, including (12) Greater White-fronted Goose. We also saw the following waterfowl: Canada Goose Ring-necked Duck Canvasback American Wigeon Gadwall Mallard Northern Shoveler Northern Pintail Double-crested Cormorant Lesser Scaup Harry tried to convince me to add an India Pink-headed Duck to my list, but I have better discipline and birding ethics than he gives me credit for, and I resisted! On the way back east, we stopped by Canyon Hill Cemetery in Caldwell, and walked about the north end of the place. It was pretty quiet, which is both ironic and good for a cemetery, but we did find some nice birds: Golden-crowned Kinglet Red-breasted Nuthatch Black-capped Chickadee American Goldfinch We finished our birding day by making a mad dash to beat the waning light and the advancing storm in order to check out Lake Lowell from the lower Dam. We ended up birding the dam, bit by bit, in the midst of a raging snow storm! Of note, we were able to find a Pied-billed Grebe, along with Common Mergansers and Red-breasted Mergansers, side by side, for a nice comparison! We limped on back the classical music blaring and enjoying a nice conversation about the day…and planning the next adventure! Louie Quintana Boise, ID qintana.louie AT gmail.com -- Louie Quintana quintana.louie AT gmail.com Those Who Hear Not The Music Think The Dancers Mad
Subject: Ft Boise, New Plymouth, Caldwell area
From: Louie Quintana <quintana.louie AT gmail.com>
Date: Sun, 31 Jan 2010 01:56:16 -0700

Hey, folks… On Saturday, the magnificent and benevolent Harry Krueger and I headed west of Boise for our own version of Manifest Destiny: “Go West, old dudes—Go West!” in search of that Bewick’s Wren! And we found them in spades! We started our day at Ft Boise WMA, and drove to the very end of the dirt road, alongside the Snake River, which was running high. We worked the ‘briars and brambles’ along the river and found the *Bewick’s Wrens*immediately; we heard at least 2, and maybe 3 of them, “heard” being the operative word here. They were loud in their vocalizations, but stayed out of sight. What we heard was clear and loud, and unmistakable. We just never were able to see them visually. But they are there! Also at Ft Boise, we found the following: American Kestrel Red-tailed Hawk Black-billed Magpie Red-shafted, Northern Flickers galore Song Sparrow White-crowned Sparrow Yellow rumped “Audubon’s” Warbler Dark-eyed, “Oregon” Junco European Starling American Robin American Crow Cedar Waxwing Black-capped Chickadee Canada Goose Mallard Ring-necked Duck Gadwall American Coot Ring-billed Gull Ring-necked Pheasant We then headed off to New Plymouth, in search of the Harris’ Sparrow, which we were unable to locate (not sure if it is there this year, but we looked!) We then spent time at the New Plymouth Sewage Ponds, and were able to see a nice selection of waterfowl, including *(12) Greater White-fronted Goose*. We also saw the following waterfowl: Canada Goose Ring-necked Duck Canvasback American Wigeon Gadwall Mallard Northern Shoveler Northern Pintail Double-crested Cormorant Lesser Scaup Harry tried to convince me to add an India Pink-headed Duck to my list, but I have better discipline and birding ethics than he gives me credit for, and I resisted! On the way back east, we stopped by Canyon Hill Cemetery in Caldwell, and walked about the north end of the place. It was pretty quiet, which is both ironic and good for a cemetery, but we did find some nice birds: Golden-crowned Kinglet Red-breasted Nuthatch Black-capped Chickadee American Goldfinch We finished our birding day by making a mad dash to beat the waning light and the advancing storm in order to check out Lake Lowell from the lower Dam. We ended up birding the dam, bit by bit, in the midst of a raging snow storm! Of note, we were able to find a Pied-billed Grebe, along with Common Mergansers and Red-breasted Mergansers, side by side, for a nice comparison! We limped on back the classical music blaring and enjoying a nice conversation about the day…and planning the next adventure! Louie Quintana Boise, ID qintana.louie AT gmail.com -- Louie Quintana quintana.louie AT gmail.com Those Who Hear Not The Music Think The Dancers Mad
Subject: Idaho Falls - Rosehill Cemetery
From: IdLambrech AT aol.com
Date: Sat, 30 Jan 2010 15:10:07 -0500

Friday afternoon (1/29) I birded the Cemetery.? Adult Red-tailed Hawk Dark Intermediate Harlan's Hawk (Beautiful Looking Bird) Juvenile Northern Goshawk Northern Flicker American Crow Blackbill Magpie B.C. Chickadee R.B. Nuthatch American Robin Townsend's Solitaire Cedar Waxwing ? Marvin Lambrecht 552-2499
Subject: Re: Gilded Flicker
From: "monty.thomson" <monty.thomson AT yahoo.com>
Date: Sat, 30 Jan 2010 18:40:42 -0000

hi Kay, nice pictures! i was unable to see from the angle and lighting, in the photo, the colour of the feather shafts or the presence of broader black tips on the tail feathers . that would help in isolating red-shafted from yellow or gilded. the top of the head on gilded is a cinnamon and typically covers more of the top of the head than on northern flicker (extending further back on gilded). your bird does not appear to have this feature, instead appearing more grey in colour. also the black breast patch on gilded is more oval in shape, lacking the sharper points and more crescent shape of the northern. your bird appears to have a distinct crescent on the breast, indicating a northern. the appearance of a gilded would be great as it is a bird common to the Arizona desert with a range extending southward from there. my best guess for your bird is female red-shafted flicker. hope this helps. watch for it again in your yard and see if you can get a glimpse of the feather shafts. good birding, monty thomson boise
Subject: Birding at the sand Dunes?
From: "Rohn" <rohnbm AT yahoo.com>
Date: Sat, 30 Jan 2010 05:28:31 -0000

Bruneau Dunes State Park Any birders out there have advice on birding at the sand dunes, this time of year? Planning a visit in the next week.
Subject: Gilded Flicker?
From: "kay_boise" <ckayki AT yahoo.com>
Date: Fri, 29 Jan 2010 20:50:43 -0000

This is the first time that I have posted although I joined the group a year or so ago. I just took these photos in my backyard in west Boise. The closest match I have found on Cornell is an adult female gilded flicker! What do you all think? Kay http://picasaweb.google.com/blumoon48/20100129?authkey=Gv1sRgCMH5yJKkq53fOw#5432266613560721378
Subject: Reducing aircraft-wildlife strikes at airports
From: Matt Kennedy <kennedym2009 AT yahoo.com>
Date: Thu, 28 Jan 2010 20:20:20 -0800 (PST)

Dear fellow birding enthusiasts, Ā Ā Ā As a lifelong birder and professional aviator for over 16 years, I am conducting a nation-wide study on the level of community support for the mitigation measures used at airports to reduce the wildlife strike hazard to commercial aircraft.Ā Getting input from different regions of the country is necessary to gauge whether there are regional differences due to varying bird populations or possible high profile incidents involving wildlife strikes on aircraft.Ā Ā Ā Ā Responses are submitted electronically to a database that does not identify users, so your answers will be completely confidential.Ā Findings will be released only as analyzed data or summaries in which no individualā€™s answers can be identified.Ā Please take a few moments to share your opinions and experiences.Ā I appreciate you taking time from your busy schedule to contribute toward this important research about community views on wildlife mitigation measures at airports. Ā The survey can be accessed at:Ā Ā https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/XTVS225 Ā If you would like a summary of my findings, please send me your e-mail address at kennedym2009 AT yahoo.com.Ā Once the study is complete, I will e-mail the summary to you. Best Regards, Matt Kennedy Graduate student in Aeronautical Science Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Subject: Lower dam at Deer Flat
From: Denise Hughes <idahobirder AT hotmail.com>
Date: Thu, 28 Jan 2010 19:08:49 -0700

I traveled across the lower dam today to the sunny slope area. There was a single Barrow's Goldeneye and two Common Loons near the road and one Bald Eagle in the trees across the water. Denise Hughes Caldwell, ID idahobirder AT hotmail.com It is our collective and individual responsibility to preserve and tend to the environment in which we all live....Dali Lama
Subject: 2010 Ada County Big Year List
From: "Lew & Connie Ulrey" <lulrey AT cableone.net>
Date: Thu, 28 Jan 2010 18:43:17 -0700

Hello everyone, Here are recent additions to the Ada County Big Year List: 84 American Tree Sparrow 1/18 Garden City Curtis Evans 85 Golden-crowned Kinglet 1/14 Ann Morrison Park Jay Carlisle 86 Northern Shrike 1/22 Foote Park John Battalio 87 Thayer's Gull 1/16 Hidden Hollow Landfill Jay Carlisle 88 Lesser Scaup 1/16 Two Rivers Robert Mortensen 89 Evening Grosbeak 1/28 Curtis & Franklin (road kill) Mark Collie Lew Ulrey Boise lulrey AT cableone.net
Subject: 210 in 2010: eBird Idaho - Week Four
From: "Robert Mortensen" <robert.mortensen AT suncorid.com>
Date: Thu, 28 Jan 2010 08:42:32 -0700

You can see the current standings on the leader board at http://avimor.blogspot.com! Congratulations to the current top 10 in each category! I am disappointed that only 37 individuals have submitted Idaho checklists to eBird this year. I had hoped to encourage and motivate a little better than that. I invite every Idaho birder to try submitting at least one eBird checklist and let me know what you think. Please do it for the birds, for the birders, and for science! It is easy, fun, very useful, and FREE! Happy Birding! ---------------------------------- Robert Mortensen Avimor Birding Blog 208-939-0343 office 208-921-1202 mobile robert.mortensen AT suncorID.com
Subject: Wilson Springs
From: "steve_and_eileenloerch" <birdsnbugs AT cableone.net>
Date: Wed, 27 Jan 2010 04:32:04 -0000

Had a nice trip last Sunday. Weather was delightful and the birds were very active. Three unusual species were a western screech owl, female ruddy duck and female hooded merganser. Eileen Loerch
Subject: Ada Co. Landfill Gulls
From: rowlandrl AT aol.com
Date: Tue, 26 Jan 2010 17:19:52 EST

"ible", RL here. Yesterday, Monday, 24/01/10, Gary Worthington & I spent several hours (approx. 1200-1530) at the Ada Co. Landfill scanning the gulls. We found this season's largest number of gulls, approximately 2400 about 85% Ring-billed (RBGU) the remainder California (CAGU); we also had 36-40 Herring's (HEGU). The 2nd year Glaucous (GLGU) & the adult Kumlien's Iceland [K(ICGU)] were also present. There were also two adult "mystery" gulls; both heavily hooded (one way more so than the other), had shortish bills with a red spot on the gonys (similar in aspect to the Iceland), black primaries, rounded heads with dark-brownish-yellow eyes, one had darkish pink legs like the Kumlien's (the heavily hooded bird), the other bird's legs were a lighter pink, closer to a HEGU's leg color. Both were smaller than the HEGU's but larger than the CAGU's, & in mantle/back gray coloring, were arguably the coloration of the adult HEGU's/RBGU's/Kumlien's. We were not able to get any good views of the primary/over tail projection, as these two, & the Kumlien's, kept pretty tight within the mob of RBGU's & the slight breeze kept them facing into the wind. Noises & other movements at the dump caused all the gulls to go airborne four times dropping back down three of those risings, but, we were able to refind the two gulls in question twice each after much re-scanning for them. Both birds' seemed to be in good condition but tired as they spent much of their time belly-to-the-ground trying to sleep. They may have come in with the past weekend's weather. With the fourth rising of the gulls most went back to the dump face area to feed & we departed. Later, after perusing Larson/Olson's "Gulls of North America, Europe & Asia"; I think both Gary & myself feel comfortable with at least one, if not both, of these two particular gulls to be adult Thayer's (THGU). Due to the tightness of the mob we were not able to get any photos of these two particular gulls. This coming Monday, 1 February Gary & I will be back at the landfill to look for the GLGU & the [K(ICGU)] to hopefully get over-wintering confirmation of these two species in Latilong 17 for the Idaho Bird Distribution Project. Should anyone care to join us, we should be on station at there, hopefully no later than 1100hrs. If not found Monday, there are still 23 more dump-accessible days left in the month. Call or email me for details. Good Birding. RL (208) 336-9808
Subject: [Fwd: Great Backyard Bird Count Newsletter - Jan. 2010]
From: Cliff and Lisa Weisse <cliffandlisa AT octobersetters.com>
Date: Tue, 26 Jan 2010 11:42:33 -0700

Here's the latest information on the Great Backyard Bird Count Cliff If you can't see a formatted message and photo, view the web version . /*GBBC participant newsletter - January 26, 2010*/ Mark your calendar! The 13th annual Great Backyard Bird Count is just a few weeks away. Itā€™s your chance to count for fun and count for the future, from Friday, February 12, through Monday, February 15. Whether you participate once or several times, by submitting your list of the birds you see at www.birdcount.org , you will help scientists learn more about how birds are faring in your neighborhood. Welcome, Bird Studies Canada! Audubon and the Cornell Lab are delighted to welcome Bird Studies Canada (BSC) as our first international partner for the Great Backyard Bird Count. ā€Bird Studies Canada is delighted to be the Canadian partner for this extremely valuable program,ā€¯ said George Finney, President of BSC. ā€Participating in the GBBC is an excellent way for Canadians to reconnect with their love of nature and birds.ā€¯ Help Make this the Biggest GBBC Ever! The more people who participate in the GBBC, the better the information scientists will have about how bird populations may be changing over time due to habitat loss, climate change, disease, or other factors. Here are some ways you can encourage family, friends and others in your community to take part and submit lists of their own. * *Alert the Media:* Send our GBBC news release to your local newspaper, TV, and radio stations. Ask them to put a notice in their calendar sections to remind everyone about the dates. * *Tweet about the count!* In the weeks leading up to the Great Backyard Bird Count, and during the event, we want everybody to get tweeting on Twitter about what youā€™re doing to get ready, and what kinds of birds youā€™re seeing. Just add this ā€hashtagā€¯ to your message: *#gbbc* (make sure the letters are lower-case; a ā€hashtagā€¯ is simply text you leave at the end of your message). When you add that tag, tweets about GBBC will show up in a special widget on the GBBC home page so we can all share. If you donā€™t have a Twitter account, itā€™s free and easy to sign up at http://twitter.com/ . Itā€™ll be fun! * *Grab a Button:* You can grab one or more web buttons from the GBBC website. Use them on your own website or blog, linking others to the GBBC site: www.birdcount.org . Word-of-mouth, (or word-of-web) is what helps GBBC keep growing, so spread the word! * *Join a Count Community:* GBBC events are taking place around the continent. Discover what's going on in your area on the GBBC websiteā€™s Local Events page. If youā€™re hosting an event, email Pat Leonard at pel27 AT cornell.edu so your event can be posted on the GBBC website. Win Great Prizes Everyone who submits a bird checklist during the GBBC is automatically entered in our drawing for bird-related items donated by Wild Birds Unlimited, the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Audubon, Woodlink, Droll Yankees, and DK Publishing. /*White-throated Sparrow by Jeff Lemons, 2009 GBBC*/ Brush Up on Your Birds * Check out the GBBC page on identifying sparrows so you can distinguish one ā€little brown birdā€¯ from another. * Print a regional checklist so you know what to look for in your area. * Review the answers to the GBBCā€™s Frequently Asked Questions to refresh your memory about how to do the count. *Thank you for all you do for the birds!* ** Janis Dickinson, Director of Citizen Science, Cornell Lab of Ornithology Tom Bancroft, Chief Scientist and Vice-President, National Audubon Society /The Cornell Lab of Ornithology is a nonprofit membership institution interpreting and conserving the earthā€™s biological diversity through research, education, and citizen science focused on birds. Visit the Cornell Labā€™s website at //www.birds.cornell.edu./ /Audubon is dedicated to protecting birds and other wildlife and the habitat that supports them. Our national network of community-based nature centers and chapters, scientific and educational programs, and advocacy on behalf of areas sustaining important bird populations, engage millions of people of all ages and backgrounds in conservation. www.audubon.org / /Bird Studies Canada (//www.birdscanada.org/ /) administers regional, national, and international research and monitoring programs that advance the understanding, appreciation, and conservation of wild birds and their habitats. We are Canadaā€™s national body for bird conservation and science, and we are a non-governmental charitable organization. // / National Audubon Society 225 Varick Street New York, NY 10014 Call: (212) 979-3000 Cornell Lab of Ornithology 159 Sapsucker Woods Road Ithaca, NY 14850 Call toll-free (800) 843-2473 Bird Studies Canada Box 160, Port Rowan, ON Canada N0E 1M0 Call: (888) 448-2473 or (519) 586-3531 Privacy Policy | Unsubscribe -- Cliff and Lisa Weisse Island Park, Idaho cliffandlisa AT octobersetters.com
Subject: Trumpeter Swans near Vale
From: Ruth Shea <ruthshea14 AT gmail.com>
Date: Mon, 25 Jan 2010 19:38:03 -0700

Had a thrill this PM when I returned home and saw 2 swans feeding in the field directly across from my house. WE rarely see swans in the fields around Vale. Got close enough to confirm they were 2 adult Trumpeters, with no legbands or other markers. Having spent over 20 years working to rebuild Trumpeter Swan migrations through Idaho, it was fabulous to watch them for over 2 hours from my living room window. In addition to the continued evidence that their migrations are expanding, it was very significant to see them feeding in a dry field, that was used to raise wheat, peas and Teff last summer. We are about 3 miles from the nearest good roost at Bully Creek Reservoir Field feeding is a learned behavior that is expanding among Trumpeters and will open up virtually unlimited new winter habitat options as the behavior expands. This field is not at all noteworthy, quite similar to many fields scattered across southern Idaho. If any one else has observed Trumpeters recently or has seen them field feeding in western/southern Idaho in the past, please let me know. Ruth Shea rshea AT trumpeterswansociety.org.
Subject: Red-Winged Blackbirds
From: Ruthann Greene <ruthanngreene AT yahoo.com>
Date: Mon, 25 Jan 2010 11:10:36 -0800 (PST)

I just have the males coming to my feeder. I, too, usually don't see the Red Wings until about mid February. Although I know they over winter in the area, I usually don't seeme them in December and January. I live very near Stoddard and Victory, so maybe I was feeding the RWs spotted there. Ruthann Greene
Subject: Red-Winged Blackbirds
From: Denise Hughes <idahobirder AT hotmail.com>
Date: Mon, 25 Jan 2010 11:59:24 -0700

I was in Little Valley and Harper Oregon yesterday. (about 25 miles west of Vale) I saw a large mixed flock of Brewers and Red wings; there were as many females as the males. The flock was about 250 birds. Denise Hughes Caldwell, ID idahobirder AT hotmail.com It is our collective and individual responsibility to preserve and tend to the environment in which we all live....Dali Lama To: onwingsof_Pearl AT Hotmail.com; ible AT yahoogroups.com CC: ruthanngreene AT yahoo.coml; artrob99 AT cableone.net From: robert.mortensen AT suncorid.com Date: Mon, 25 Jan 2010 10:44:17 -0700 Subject: [IBLE] Red-Winged Blackbirds I had male Red-winged BB's here at Avimor unit mid-December, but none yet in 2010. My eBird records show that males come back to Avimor in great numbers in mid-February. I did find half a dozen RWBB's in Meridian this weekend along a drain ditch between Overland and Victory on Stoddard Rd. They were just singing away. With the females not being present yet, I wonder if their singing is to establish territory rather than to attract a mate? I have seen witnessed Michael's overwintering flock in Pearl. Michael, what would you say the ratio of males to females are at your place? Also of note, at the ponds on Victory Rd there were hundred of Canada Geese. I noted about a dozen smaller geese, but their color pattern and relative proportions matched the large geese. I did pick out one very obvious Cackling Goose in the mix, much darker breast, short neck and short bill, and even smaller than the smaller Canadas. From: ible AT yahoogroups.com [mailto:ible AT yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Michael Wiegand Sent: Monday, January 25, 2010 10:32 AM To: ruthanngreene AT yahoo.com; IBLE Subject: RE: [IBLE] Boise Greenbelt in Garden city - Red Wing Black red-winged blackbirds overwinter in southwest Idaho every year...they tend to stay out in the grain fields or places like mine that have a steady food source until late winter/early spring...I average about a hundred and fifty a day all winter long...the change to a milder el nino' regime may have them on the move... Michael Wiegand Pearl, Idaho 208-859-3643-c 208-286-0506-h www.habiscapes.com "the truth is out there!" To: ible AT yahoogroups.com From: ruthanngreene AT yahoo.com Date: Mon, 25 Jan 2010 09:11:42 -0800 Subject: [IBLE] Boise Greenbelt in Garden city - Red Wing Black Several male red wing blackbirds showed up at my place in South Meridian this weekend. I also thought this was early. Ruthann Greene
Subject: RE: Red-Winged Blackbirds
From: Michael Wiegand <onwingsof_Pearl AT Hotmail.com>
Date: Mon, 25 Jan 2010 10:56:43 -0700

rarely have females until February...I think the males like to make a racket to keep themselves company :) until the females show up and they change their tune! btw...the RWBBs count is down somewhat this winter due in part to the colder onset to winter we had a while back...so perhaps some moved further south than normal and could be moving back up...temperate migrants, such as they, are always on the move related to weather and food source...which is quite different than the neo-tropical migrant movements which are based more on cyclical rhythms, habitat and breeding. Michael Wiegand Pearl, Idaho 208-859-3643-c 208-286-0506-h www.habiscapes.com "the truth is out there!" To: onwingsof_Pearl AT Hotmail.com; ible AT yahoogroups.com CC: ruthanngreene AT yahoo.coml; artrob99 AT cableone.net From: robert.mortensen AT suncorid.com Date: Mon, 25 Jan 2010 10:44:17 -0700 Subject: [IBLE] Red-Winged Blackbirds I had male Red-winged BB's here at Avimor unit mid-December, but none yet in 2010. My eBird records show that males come back to Avimor in great numbers in mid-February. I did find half a dozen RWBB's in Meridian this weekend along a drain ditch between Overland and Victory on Stoddard Rd. They were just singing away. With the females not being present yet, I wonder if their singing is to establish territory rather than to attract a mate? I have seen witnessed Michael's overwintering flock in Pearl. Michael, what would you say the ratio of males to females are at your place? Also of note, at the ponds on Victory Rd there were hundred of Canada Geese. I noted about a dozen smaller geese, but their color pattern and relative proportions matched the large geese. I did pick out one very obvious Cackling Goose in the mix, much darker breast, short neck and short bill, and even smaller than the smaller Canadas. From: ible AT yahoogroups.com [mailto:ible AT yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Michael Wiegand Sent: Monday, January 25, 2010 10:32 AM To: ruthanngreene AT yahoo.com; IBLE Subject: RE: [IBLE] Boise Greenbelt in Garden city - Red Wing Black red-winged blackbirds overwinter in southwest Idaho every year...they tend to stay out in the grain fields or places like mine that have a steady food source until late winter/early spring...I average about a hundred and fifty a day all winter long...the change to a milder el nino' regime may have them on the move... Michael Wiegand Pearl, Idaho 208-859-3643-c 208-286-0506-h www.habiscapes.com "the truth is out there!" To: ible AT yahoogroups.com From: ruthanngreene AT yahoo.com Date: Mon, 25 Jan 2010 09:11:42 -0800 Subject: [IBLE] Boise Greenbelt in Garden city - Red Wing Black Several male red wing blackbirds showed up at my place in South Meridian this weekend. I also thought this was early. Ruthann Greene
Subject: Re: Red-Winged Blackbirds
From: Cliff and Lisa Weisse <cliffandlisa AT octobersetters.com>
Date: Mon, 25 Jan 2010 10:56:19 -0700

Interesting that they return to Avimor in mid February because that's when they arrive in Island Park. I've seen them as early as Feb 9th (a single male at my feeder two years in a row) but mid-month is a more typical. I thought the elevation here would make them later but I guess not. Cliff Robert Mortensen wrote: > > > I had male Red-winged BB's here at Avimor unit mid-December, but none > yet in 2010. My eBird records show that males come back to Avimor in > great numbers in mid-February. I did find half a dozen RWBB's in > Meridian this weekend along a drain ditch between Overland and Victory > on Stoddard Rd. They were just singing away. With the females not > being present yet, I wonder if their singing is to establish territory > rather than to attract a mate? > > I have seen witnessed Michael's overwintering flock in Pearl. > Michael, what would you say the ratio of males to females are at your > place? > > Also of note, at the ponds on Victory Rd there were hundred of Canada > Geese. I noted about a dozen smaller geese, but their color pattern > and relative proportions matched the large geese. I did pick out one > very obvious Cackling Goose in the mix, much darker breast, short neck > and short bill, and even smaller than the smaller Canadas. > > > ------------------------------------------------------------------------ > *From:* ible AT yahoogroups.com [mailto:ible AT yahoogroups.com] *On > Behalf Of *Michael Wiegand > *Sent:* Monday, January 25, 2010 10:32 AM > *To:* ruthanngreene AT yahoo.com; IBLE > *Subject:* RE: [IBLE] Boise Greenbelt in Garden city - Red Wing Black > > > > red-winged blackbirds overwinter in southwest Idaho every > year...they tend to stay out in the grain fields or places like > mine that have a steady food source until late winter/early > spring...I average about a hundred and fifty a day all winter > long...the change to a milder el nino' regime may have them on the > move... > > *Michael Wiegand* > *Pearl, Idaho * > ** > *208-859-3643-c* > *208-286-0506-h * > ** > **www.habiscapes.com* ** > * > *"_the truth is out there_!"* > > > > > > > ------------------------------------------------------------------------ > To: ible AT yahoogroups.com > From: ruthanngreene AT yahoo.com > Date: Mon, 25 Jan 2010 09:11:42 -0800 > Subject: [IBLE] Boise Greenbelt in Garden city - Red Wing Black > > > Several male red wing blackbirds showed up at my place in South > Meridian this weekend. I also thought this was early. > > Ruthann Greene > > > > -- Cliff and Lisa Weisse Island Park, Idaho cliffandlisa AT octobersetters.com
Subject: Re: Hooded Merganser
From: Cliff and Lisa Weisse <cliffandlisa AT octobersetters.com>
Date: Mon, 25 Jan 2010 10:51:36 -0700

Rohn, I saw a pair at McCrea's Bridge in Island Park a few days ago. McCrea's Bridge is on the Kilgore-Yale Rd. about 2.5 miles west of US 20. They are regular during winter at Harriman State Park, most reliably in the small side channel of the Henry's Fork of the Snake River where the ski trail first hits the river and in Thurman Creek just above the confluence with the Henry's Fork. Cliff Rohn wrote: > > > Any in Eastern Idaho this winter? Where and when would be appreciated > > -- Cliff and Lisa Weisse Island Park, Idaho cliffandlisa AT octobersetters.com
Subject: Red-Winged Blackbirds
From: "Robert Mortensen" <robert.mortensen AT suncorid.com>
Date: Mon, 25 Jan 2010 10:44:17 -0700

I had male Red-winged BB's here at Avimor unit mid-December, but none yet in 2010. My eBird records show that males come back to Avimor in great numbers in mid-February. I did find half a dozen RWBB's in Meridian this weekend along a drain ditch between Overland and Victory on Stoddard Rd. They were just singing away. With the females not being present yet, I wonder if their singing is to establish territory rather than to attract a mate? I have seen witnessed Michael's overwintering flock in Pearl. Michael, what would you say the ratio of males to females are at your place? Also of note, at the ponds on Victory Rd there were hundred of Canada Geese. I noted about a dozen smaller geese, but their color pattern and relative proportions matched the large geese. I did pick out one very obvious Cackling Goose in the mix, much darker breast, short neck and short bill, and even smaller than the smaller Canadas. ________________________________ From: ible AT yahoogroups.com [mailto:ible AT yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Michael Wiegand Sent: Monday, January 25, 2010 10:32 AM To: ruthanngreene AT yahoo.com; IBLE Subject: RE: [IBLE] Boise Greenbelt in Garden city - Red Wing Black red-winged blackbirds overwinter in southwest Idaho every year...they tend to stay out in the grain fields or places like mine that have a steady food source until late winter/early spring...I average about a hundred and fifty a day all winter long...the change to a milder el nino' regime may have them on the move... Michael Wiegand Pearl, Idaho 208-859-3643-c 208-286-0506-h www.habiscapes.com "the truth is out there!" ________________________________ To: ible AT yahoogroups.com From: ruthanngreene AT yahoo.com Date: Mon, 25 Jan 2010 09:11:42 -0800 Subject: [IBLE] Boise Greenbelt in Garden city - Red Wing Black Several male red wing blackbirds showed up at my place in South Meridian this weekend. I also thought this was early. Ruthann Greene
Subject: RE: Boise Greenbelt in Garden city - Red Wing Black
From: Michael Wiegand <onwingsof_Pearl AT Hotmail.com>
Date: Mon, 25 Jan 2010 10:32:03 -0700

red-winged blackbirds overwinter in southwest Idaho every year...they tend to stay out in the grain fields or places like mine that have a steady food source until late winter/early spring...I average about a hundred and fifty a day all winter long...the change to a milder el nino' regime may have them on the move... Michael Wiegand Pearl, Idaho 208-859-3643-c 208-286-0506-h www.habiscapes.com "the truth is out there!" To: ible AT yahoogroups.com From: ruthanngreene AT yahoo.com Date: Mon, 25 Jan 2010 09:11:42 -0800 Subject: [IBLE] Boise Greenbelt in Garden city - Red Wing Black Several male red wing blackbirds showed up at my place in South Meridian this weekend. I also thought this was early. Ruthann Greene
Subject: Boise Greenbelt in Garden city - Red Wing Black
From: Ruthann Greene <ruthanngreene AT yahoo.com>
Date: Mon, 25 Jan 2010 09:11:42 -0800 (PST)

Several male red wing blackbirds showed up at my place in South Meridian this weekend. I also thought this was early. Ruthann Greene
Subject: Hooded Merganser
From: "Rohn" <rohnbm AT yahoo.com>
Date: Mon, 25 Jan 2010 17:10:18 -0000

Any in Eastern Idaho this winter? Where and when would be appreciated

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