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4 Jul Southwestern Idaho Birders Association, 7/11/2009, 12:00 am [] 3 Jul Southwestern Idaho Birders Association, 7/9/2009, 7:00 pm [] 1 Jul Kootenai and Benewah County Big Year updates ["Shirley Sturts" ] 1 Jul Kootenai and Benewah County Big Year updates ["Shirley Sturts" ] 01 Jul Re: Boise, Co.... Red-eyed Vireo, Bobolink ["Jim Greaves" ] 29 Jun SIBA Field Trip to Silver City - 6-27-09 [4 Attachments] ["Cheryl Huizinga" ] 28 Jun Joseph Plains Field Trip ["Terry Gray" ] 28 Jun Joseph Plains Field Trip ["Terry Gray" ] 28 Jun Boise, Co.... Red-eyed Vireo, Bobolink ["J. Harry Krueger" ] 27 Jun Eurasion Collared Doves [Steve Bouffard ] 27 Jun 2009/10 Junior Duck Stamp [Steve Bouffard ] 26 Jun RE: Shorebird movements already ["Terry Gray" ] 26 Jun Shorebird movements already [Denise Hughes ] 26 Jun 2009-2010 Duck Stamp ["Lew & Connie Ulrey" ] 26 Jun 2009 Ada County Big Year List ["Lew & Connie Ulrey" ] 26 Jun Shorebird movements already ["Chuck Trost" ] 25 Jun Western Kingbird has a rusty crown [3 Attachments] [Denise Hughes ] 25 Jun Craters grosbeak? ["Mike Munts" ] 25 Jun Re: City of Rocks, Cassia Co. and a general request for help ["Mike Munts" ] 25 Jun List Counting revisited ["J. Harry Krueger" ] 24 Jun RE: City of Rocks, Cassia Co. and Curlew National Grasslands, Oneida Co. ["Wayne Weber" ] 24 Jun Southwestern Idaho Birders Association, 6/27/2009, 12:00 am [] 23 Jun Indigo Bunting clarification ["J. Harry Krueger" ] 22 Jun Re: barn swallows and intersections [Jeff Bilsky ] 22 Jun Re: barn swallows and intersections [Charles Swift ] 21 Jun Re: Northern Bobwhite - Beacon Light Rd - Ada Co. ["J. Harry Krueger" ] 21 Jun Re: barn swallows and intersections [Jeff Bilsky ] 21 Jun RE: barn swallows and intersections [Gary Hendriksen ] 21 Jun City of Rocks, Cassia Co. and Curlew National Grasslands, Oneida Co. ["J. Harry Krueger" ] 21 Jun barn swallows and intersections ["monty.thomson" ] 20 Jun Re: Northern Bobwhite - Beacon Light Rd - Ada Co. [Charles Swift ] 20 Jun Canyon Co. Birds for 2009 ["Cheryl Huizinga" ] 20 Jun Southwestern Idaho Birders Association, 6/27/2009, 12:00 am [] 19 Jun Re: Northern Bobwhite - Beacon Light Rd - Ada Co. ["J. Harry Krueger" ] 19 Jun RE: Northern Bobwhite - Beacon Light Rd - Ada Co. ["Terry Gray" ] 19 Jun Re: Northern Bobwhite - Beacon Light Rd - Ada Co. [Charles Swift ] 18 Jun Magnolia Warbler Photo Album ["cameronkathleena" ] 18 Jun Magnolia Warbler Hailey ["cameronkathleena" ] 18 Jun Flicker family residence ["d6stone" ] 17 Jun RE: Northern Bobwhite - Beacon Light Rd - Ada Co. [Michael Wiegand ] 17 Jun Re: Northern Bobwhite - Beacon Light Rd - Ada Co. ["J. Harry Krueger" ] 18 Jun Northern Bobwhite - Beacon Light Rd - Ada Co. ["Robert" ] 17 Jun Kootenai and Benewah County Big Year ["Shirley Sturts" ] 16 Jun 2009 Ada County Big Year List ["Lew & Connie Ulrey" ] 15 Jun Eurasian Collared-Dove ["rbird1286" ] 15 Jun water logged [Michael Wiegand ] 15 Jun SIBA Field Trip to Daggett Creek 6/13/09 [4 Attachments] ["Cheryl Huizinga" ] 14 Jun Jh Krueger looked for you on MyLife [Jh Krueger ] 14 Jun Re: Common Nighthawk ["J. Harry Krueger" ] 14 Jun South Hills Census... one perspective ["J. Harry Krueger" ] 14 Jun Sapsucker ID Challenge answer posted to BirdFellow.com [David Irons ] 14 Jun some birder demographics I found on the USFWS website [jonathan stoke ] 13 Jun Avimor Bird Walk Report ["Robert" ] 13 Jun Great-tailed Grackle in Meridian ["Robert" ] 13 Jun Re: Common Nighthawk ["Jim Greaves" ] 12 Jun Re: Common Nighthawk ["J. Harry Krueger" ] 12 Jun Elmore County Update [Betty ] 12 Jun Blue-gray Gnatcatcher Boise/Ada County ["Scott Tuthill" ] 11 Jun Common Nighthawk ["Lew & Connie Ulrey" ] 11 Jun Going crazy at Foote Park ["lnquintana" ] 11 Jun Spring Valley Creek - Avimor - Ada Co. ["Robert" ] 11 Jun Sapsucker ID Challenge posted to BirdFellow.com [David Irons ] 10 Jun Great Gray Owl [1 Attachment] ["Cheryl Huizinga" ] 10 Jun YB Cuckoo & Least Flycatchers in far SW Blaine Co. ["carlislejay" ] 10 Jun probable Caspian Tern [2 Attachments] [Art Robertson ] 10 Jun Southwestern Idaho Birders Association, 6/13/2009, 12:00 am [] 9 Jun 2009 Ada County Big Year List ["Lew & Connie Ulrey" ] 9 Jun RE: [swiba] Attn: SIBA Daggertt Creek Field Trip on June 13 [alfred larson ] 9 Jun Attn: SIBA Daggertt Creek Field Trip on June 13 ["Cheryl Huizinga" ] 9 Jun Southwestern Idaho Birders Association, 6/11/2009, 7:00 pm [] 08 Jun Re: Chestnut-sided warbler, Boise 6/7/09 ["John Battalio" ] 7 Jun RE: fledgling nuthatch in Boise [Michael Wiegand ] 7 Jun Re: Craters this week ["Mike Munts" ] 07 Jun Dry Lake, ["Darrell Marks" ] 07 Jun Chestnut-sided warbler, Boise 6/7/09 ["ackerman_bruce" ] 07 Jun bobolinks? ["Jesse DeVoe" ] Subject: Southwestern Idaho Birders Association, 7/11/2009, 12:00 am From: ible AT yahoogroups.com Date: 4 Jul 2009 05:59:25 -0000 Reminder from: ible Yahoo! Group http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ible/cal Southwestern Idaho Birders Association Saturday July 11, 2009 All Day (The next reminder for this event will be sent in 4 days, 1 minute.) Location: Prairie, ID Notes: Southwestern Idaho Birders Association field trip to Prairie. Meet at Nampa's Franklin Ave Park & Ride (I84, Exit 36) at 7AM or at Black's Creek (I84,Exit 64)at 8AM. This is a full day trip. Bring lunch, water and wear walking shoes. Trip leader, Al Larson, 343-0959 All Rights Reserved Copyright © 2009 Yahoo! Inc. http://www.yahoo.com Privacy Policy: http://privacy.yahoo.com/privacy/us Terms of Service: http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/ Subject: Southwestern Idaho Birders Association, 7/9/2009, 7:00 pm From: ible AT yahoogroups.com Date: 3 Jul 2009 01:25:26 -0000 Reminder from: ible Yahoo! Group http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ible/cal Southwestern Idaho Birders Association Thursday July 9, 2009 7:00 pm - 8:45 pm (The next reminder for this event will be sent in 4 days, 1 minute.) Location: Visitors Center, Deer Flat NWR, Lake Lowell, Nampa, ID Notes: Regular monthly meeting. Mike Shipman will present a program and video on the history of Deer Flat NWR. All Rights Reserved Copyright © 2009 Yahoo! Inc. http://www.yahoo.com Privacy Policy: http://privacy.yahoo.com/privacy/us Terms of Service: http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/ Subject: Kootenai and Benewah County Big Year updates From: "Shirley Sturts" <shirley.sturts AT gmail.com> Date: Wed, 1 Jul 2009 09:29:56 -0700 Kootenai County 178 Caspian Tern - June 26 Wolf Lodge Bay IBA Kris Buchler and Lisa Hardy 179 Red-eyed Vireo - June 9 Mica Bay Survey - several CDA Audubon members 180 Sandhill Crane - June 23 Schlepp Ranch - Lisa Hardy Benwah County -- June 23 2009 Lisa Hardy Rochat BBS 111 Spruce Grouse 112 Olive sided Flycatcher 113 Clark's Nutcracker 114 Townsend's Solitaire 115 Hermit Thrush 116 Red Crossbill Shirley Sturts Coeur d'Alene, ID _______________________________________________ Inland-nw-birders mailing list Inland-nw-birders AT uidaho.edu https://www.lists.uidaho.edu/mailman/listinfo/inland-nw-birders Subject: Kootenai and Benewah County Big Year updates From: "Shirley Sturts" <shirley.sturts AT gmail.com> Date: Wed, 1 Jul 2009 09:29:56 -0700 Kootenai County 178 Caspian Tern - June 26 Wolf Lodge Bay IBA Kris Buchler and Lisa Hardy 179 Red-eyed Vireo - June 9 Mica Bay Survey - several CDA Audubon members 180 Sandhill Crane - June 23 Schlepp Ranch - Lisa Hardy Benwah County -- June 23 2009 Lisa Hardy Rochat BBS 111 Spruce Grouse 112 Olive sided Flycatcher 113 Clark's Nutcracker 114 Townsend's Solitaire 115 Hermit Thrush 116 Red Crossbill Shirley Sturts Coeur d'Alene, ID Subject: Re: Boise, Co.... Red-eyed Vireo, Bobolink From: "Jim Greaves" <lbviman AT blackfoot.net> Date: Wed, 01 Jul 2009 01:52:03 -0000 Hi Harry et al -- it's also useful to recall while in the field that most if not all vireo males sing while sitting in cup to guard eggs or smaller chicks while the female is away -- this can be any time from early morning (her time to exercise and eat) to mid-day when the male needs a rest from HIS assertive travails... I've found many vireo nests this way - patience and no wind help with canopy nesters (Warbling, which tends to nest on outer edges of trees or shrubs, usually high up; Red-eyed, though they tend to be "interior" below canopy. Cassin's also interior and sings a lot from nest -- all 3 can nest as low as 6 feet); so if you hear a male vireo singing slowly from one spot for quite some time, look carefully and you might find what looks like a tennis ball in the tree with a head sticking out of it - Jim Greaves, Thompson Falls MT --- In ible AT yahoogroups.com, "J. Harry Krueger" wrote: > [snipped] > this is somewhat significant is that this is probably the southern most part of the state where the vireo can be reliably be found at this time of year... and although breeding has not yet been confirmed, it is strongly suspected. By song and behavior, that would be my conclusion... but again, no definitive evidence was noted, such as fledged young or adults carrying food to a nest. It has been my experience that Red-eyed Vireo sings almost continuously all day long, even in the hottest part of the afternoon, when on breeding territory. And this is exactly what this bird was doing. > J. Harry Krueger > Boise > Subject: SIBA Field Trip to Silver City - 6-27-09 [4 Attachments] From: "Cheryl Huizinga" <bchuizinga AT cableone.net> Date: Mon, 29 Jun 2009 09:21:54 -0600 Hi Birders, 19 enthusiastic birders gathered together on a beautiful Saturday morning for the SIBA Field Trip to Silver City on June 27. Several stops were made along the riparian areas headed up to Silver City. At Sinker Creek most got to see a very vocal Yellow-breasted Chat, Yellow Warblers, Warbling Vireos, Lark Sparrows, Bullock's Oriole and a Black-headed Grosbeak. Two Golden Eagles were also spotted. Lewis's Woodpeckers, Western Tanagers, Lazuli Buntings and House Wrens were seen on the drive up. At the top before heading down the hill to Silver City, MacGillivray's Warbler came out to sing for us. Ted and Deb Marston's cabin in Silver City was our best spot of the day. Their shady backyard along Jordan Creek with numerous hummingbird and seed feeders was perfect for lunch. We were entertained by watching 4 different species of hummingbirds coming and going to several feeders. Male Black-chinned, Calliope, Broad-tailed and Rufous Hummingbirds gave us quite a colorful show. The nesting House Wrens kept scolding, Cassin's Finch and Pine Siskins were continually coming and going. Made it hard to find the time to eat lunch. After lunch several went to the Cemetery for a bit of history and to bird. Several species including a Gray Flycatcher were seen. A hike up Slaughterhouse Gulch was taken with a pair of probable nesting Cooper's Hawks giving us a bad time and a Green-tailed Towhee was seen in the undergrowth. Just below the Church a singing Fox Sparrow was observed. Before leaving the Marston's backyard, a pair of Spotted Sandpipers were seen along the creek and a Tree Swallow was seen with its head just coming out of a nest hole in a nearby apple tree. It was a great day to be in the historic town of Silver City and we really appreciate the hospitality of Ted and Deb Marston who helped make the day very pleasant with their backyard and decorated outhouse for everyone to use. Cheryl Huizinga, SIBA Field Trip Leader 64 Species were seen: Chukar California Quail Great Blue Heron Turkey Vulture Cooper's Hawk Swainson's Hawk Red-tailed Hawk Golden Eagle American Kestrel Killdeer Spotted Sandpiper Ring-billed Gull California Gull Eurasian Collared-Dove Mourning Dove Black-chinned Hummingbird Calliope Hummingbird Broad-tailed Hummingbird Rufous Hummingbird Lewis's Woodpecker Red-naped Sapsucker Northern Flicker Gray Flycatcher Dusky Flycatcher Western Kingbird Eastern Kingbird Warbling Vireo Black-billed Magpie Common Raven Horned Lark Tree Swallow Violet-green Swallow Bank Swallow Cliff Swallow Barn Swallow Mountain Chickadee Red-breasted Nuthatch Rock Wren House Wren Ruby-crowned Kinglet Hermit Thursh American Robin European Starling Yellow Warbler Yellow-rumped Warbler MacGillivray's Warbler Yellow-breasted Chat Western Tanager Green-tailed Towhee Spotted Sandpiper Chipping Sparrow Lark Sparrow Fox Sparrow Song Sparrow Black-headed Grosbeak Lazuli Bunting Red-winged Blackbird Western Meadowlark Brewer's Blackbird Brown-headed Cowbird Bullock's Oriole Cassin's Finch House Finch Pine Siskin House Sparrow Subject: Joseph Plains Field Trip From: "Terry Gray" <clgtlg AT moscow.com> Date: Sun, 28 Jun 2009 21:24:20 -0700 Hi everyone, 10 of us birded from Lewiston to Joseph Plains. This is an area with the Salmon River on the east side and the Snake River on the west side of a island that you drive form approximately 800 feet to 4800 feet. It is directly west of Grangeville, Idaho. For those interested Mountain Quail have been seen along the road from the Salmon River to the top from Graves Creek Road south of Cottonwood Idaho. The following Species were observed, mostly in Idaho County. Mallard Common Merganser California Quail Great Blue Heron Osprey Bald Eagle Northern Harrier American Coot Killdeer Wilson's Snipe Rock Pigeon Mourning Dove SHORT-EARED OWL White-throated Swift Lewis's Woodpecker Williamson's Sapsucker Northern Flicker Western Wood-Pewee Willow Flycatcher Dusky Flycatcher Cordilleran Flycatcher Say's Phoebe Western Kingbird Eastern Kingbird Steller's Jay Black-billed Magpie Common Raven Horned Lark Tree, Violet-green,Bank, Cliff and Barn Swallows Black-capped Chickadee Red-breasted Nuthatch Ruby-crowned Kinglet Western Bluebird Veery Swainson's Thrush American Robin Gray Catbird European Starling Cedar Waxwing Orange-crowned Warbler Yellow Warbler Yellow-breasted Chat Western Tanager Spotted Towhee Chipping Sparrow Vesper Sparrow Savannah Sparrow Dark-eyed Junco Black-headed Grosbeak Lazuli Bunting Red-winged Blackbird Western Meadowlark Yellow-headed Blackbird Brewer's Blackbird Bullock's Oriole Cassin's Finch American Goldfinch Good Birding! Terry Gray 890 Stefany Ln Moscow ID 83843 (208)882-1585 http://www.flickr.com/photos/terryandchristine/ _______________________________________________ Inland-nw-birders mailing list Inland-nw-birders AT uidaho.edu https://www.lists.uidaho.edu/mailman/listinfo/inland-nw-birders Subject: Joseph Plains Field Trip From: "Terry Gray" <clgtlg AT moscow.com> Date: Sun, 28 Jun 2009 21:24:20 -0700 Hi everyone, 10 of us birded from Lewiston to Joseph Plains. This is an area with the Salmon River on the east side and the Snake River on the west side of a island that you drive form approximately 800 feet to 4800 feet. It is directly west of Grangeville, Idaho. For those interested Mountain Quail have been seen along the road from the Salmon River to the top from Graves Creek Road south of Cottonwood Idaho. The following Species were observed, mostly in Idaho County. Mallard Common Merganser California Quail Great Blue Heron Osprey Bald Eagle Northern Harrier American Coot Killdeer Wilson's Snipe Rock Pigeon Mourning Dove SHORT-EARED OWL White-throated Swift Lewis's Woodpecker Williamson's Sapsucker Northern Flicker Western Wood-Pewee Willow Flycatcher Dusky Flycatcher Cordilleran Flycatcher Say's Phoebe Western Kingbird Eastern Kingbird Steller's Jay Black-billed Magpie Common Raven Horned Lark Tree, Violet-green,Bank, Cliff and Barn Swallows Black-capped Chickadee Red-breasted Nuthatch Ruby-crowned Kinglet Western Bluebird Veery Swainson's Thrush American Robin Gray Catbird European Starling Cedar Waxwing Orange-crowned Warbler Yellow Warbler Yellow-breasted Chat Western Tanager Spotted Towhee Chipping Sparrow Vesper Sparrow Savannah Sparrow Dark-eyed Junco Black-headed Grosbeak Lazuli Bunting Red-winged Blackbird Western Meadowlark Yellow-headed Blackbird Brewer's Blackbird Bullock's Oriole Cassin's Finch American Goldfinch Good Birding! Terry Gray 890 Stefany Ln Moscow ID 83843 (208)882-1585 http://www.flickr.com/photos/terryandchristine/ Subject: Boise, Co.... Red-eyed Vireo, Bobolink From: "J. Harry Krueger" <jhkrueger AT gmail.com> Date: Sun, 28 Jun 2009 23:03:02 -0000 This afternoon (Sunday, June 28), Louie Quintana and I made a quick swing up to Porter Creek Road, off of ID 55, just north of Horseshoe Bend, to specifically look for Red-eyed Vireo. Since this species can usually be found at this locality during the breeding season, we had expectations of at least hearing it... and we were not disappointed. With a little bit of patience and careful looking we were finally able to have good views of at least one bird, although I deduct that there were probably at least two present in the tall trees along the small creek. The reason that this is somewhat significant is that this is probably the southern most part of the state where the vireo can be reliably be found at this time of year... and although breeding has not yet been confirmed, it is strongly suspected. By song and behavior, that would be my conclusion... but again, no definitive evidence was noted, such as fledged young or adults carrying food to a nest. It has been my experience that Red-eyed Vireo sings almost continuously all day long, even in the hottest part of the afternoon, when on breeding territory. And this is exactly what this bird was doing. After getting our fill of the vireo we made the relatively short trip further north to the Project Patch Ranch to take in breeding Bobolink (a bird I've managed to miss thus far this year.) J. Harry Krueger Boise Subject: Eurasion Collared Doves From: Steve Bouffard <sh_bouffard AT yahoo.com> Date: Sat, 27 Jun 2009 10:05:55 -0700 (PDT) I had reason to spend a couple days at Minidoka NWR last week.  I was shocked to see how many collared doves were there.  Prior to 2008 I had only seen one individual on the refuge.  Last week I saw several birds on the refuge and surrounding countryside, and the observations were of multiple birds.  You could find them easily any time of the day. They were calling and obviously breeding quite successfully.  Who knows what effects they will have on the native species. Steve Bouffard 2219 Colorado Ave Boise, ID 83706 sh_bouffard AT yahoo.com Subject: 2009/10 Junior Duck Stamp From: Steve Bouffard <sh_bouffard AT yahoo.com> Date: Sat, 27 Jun 2009 09:58:11 -0700 (PDT) To follow up on Lew's message, the new Junior Duck Stamp is now available at post offices.  It goes for $5.  The proceeds are used by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service to fund the Junior Duck Stamp and environmental education programs. Steve Bouffard 2219 Colorado Ave Boise, ID 83706 sh_bouffard AT yahoo.com Subject: RE: Shorebird movements already From: "Terry Gray" <clgtlg AT moscow.com> Date: Fri, 26 Jun 2009 18:10:58 -0700 Two years ago I was seeing good numbers of mixed shore birds on the 4th of July at Mann Lake near Lewiston. Semipalmated Plovers and others were on the move! Terry Gray -----Original Message----- From: ible AT yahoogroups.com [mailto:ible AT yahoogroups.com]On Behalf Of Chuck Trost Sent: Friday, June 26, 2009 1:44 PM To: IBLE Subject: [IBLE] Shorebird movements already Howdy, This morning between rain storms I drove around American Falls Reservoir with Dan Taylor and his dad, Sam. We witnessed a considerable movement of between 300-400 Wilson's Phalaropes at three locations, most in synchronized flight, as well as feeding on the water. We also saw a flock of 30 Marbled Godwits and a single Long-billed Curlew heading south over Willow Bay, near American Falls. With the reservoir at 101% capacity there is essentially no edge for these early migrants, but they are already on the move. It was somewhat of a shock to realize that summer is over before it began. Good Birding! Chuck Trost Subject: Shorebird movements already From: Denise Hughes <idahobirder AT hotmail.com> Date: Fri, 26 Jun 2009 18:51:52 -0600 I talked with someone who lives in the Arbon area. He told me that the American Falls Reservoir is fuller than he has ever seen. If there is this much water in the reservoir now, will there be mudflats in August? Just curious. Denise Hughes Caldwell, ID idahobirder AT hotmail.com There is nothing in which the birds differ more from man than the way in which they can build and yet leave a landscape as it was before. - Robert Lynd To: ible AT yahoogroups.com From: trostchuck AT cableone.net Date: Fri, 26 Jun 2009 14:44:05 -0600 Subject: [IBLE] Shorebird movements already Howdy, This morning between rain storms I drove around American Falls Reservoir with Dan Taylor and his dad, Sam. We witnessed a considerable movement of between 300-400 Wilson's Phalaropes at three locations, most in synchronized flight, as well as feeding on the water. We also saw a flock of 30 Marbled Godwits and a single Long-billed Curlew heading south over Willow Bay, near American Falls. With the reservoir at 101% capacity there is essentially no edge for these early migrants, but they are already on the move. It was somewhat of a shock to realize that summer is over before it began. Good Birding! Chuck Trost Subject: 2009-2010 Duck Stamp From: "Lew & Connie Ulrey" <lulrey AT cableone.net> Date: Fri, 26 Jun 2009 16:58:38 -0600 Hello everyone, In case anyone else is interested in The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 2009-2010 Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp I would like to announce that I was able to purchase a stamp at the Cole Village Post Office at Cole and Ustick Roads in Boise today. The Post Office had the stamps yesterday, but would not sell them until today! Proceeds from the sale of these stamps are used to purchase wetlands and other valuable habitat for the National Wildlife Refuge System. The stamps are also know as Duck Stamps. They cost $15 and always feature a painting of a duck species. This year's stamp features Long-tailed Duck. Lew Ulrey Boise lulrey AT cableone.net Subject: 2009 Ada County Big Year List From: "Lew & Connie Ulrey" <lulrey AT cableone.net> Date: Fri, 26 Jun 2009 16:44:01 -0600 Hello everyone, Here are a few additions to the Ada County Big Year List: #207 Ash-throated Flycatcher, 6/8, Foote Park, John Battalio #208 Black-crowned Night-Heron, 6/18, Boise River s.w. of Star, RL Rowland Lew Ulrey Boise lulrey AT cableone.net Subject: Shorebird movements already From: "Chuck Trost" <trostchuck AT cableone.net> Date: Fri, 26 Jun 2009 14:44:05 -0600 (Mountain Daylight Time) Howdy, This morning between rain storms I drove around American Falls Reservoir with Dan Taylor and his dad, Sam. We witnessed a considerable movement of between 300-400 Wilson's Phalaropes at three locations, most in synchronized flight, as well as feeding on the water. We also saw a flock of 30 Marbled Godwits and a single Long-billed Curlew heading south over Willow Bay, near American Falls. With the reservoir at 101% capacity there is essentially no edge for these early migrants, but they are already on the move. It was somewhat of a shock to realize that summer is over before it began. Good Birding! Chuck Trost Subject: Western Kingbird has a rusty crown [3 Attachments] From: Denise Hughes <idahobirder AT hotmail.com> Date: Thu, 25 Jun 2009 19:20:58 -0600 I took the scenic route home along Boise River Road this afternoon. I was surprised to find 2 Wilson's Phalaropes in a flooded field and a lone Eastern Kingbird flew past when I was on the west end of the road. I stopped to watch two Western Kingbirds take on a Kestrel that was sitting on an electrical wire. The kingbirds dive bombed the kestrel but the kestrel didn't seem to be too worried about the attack. I took a few photos, hoping to get a least one where the kingbirds were attacking the kestrel. I did manage to get a few photos that are of so-so quality. But what surprised me was the rusty crown. I had read that the kingbird has this rusty patch but had never seen it before. I guess it the bird needs to be really annoyed for the patch to show. A lone Robin flew to the wire and watched the show from about 10 feet away. I'm not sure who he was rooting for. Denise Hughes Caldwell, ID idahobirder AT hotmail.com There is nothing in which the birds differ more from man than the way in which they can build and yet leave a landscape as it was before. - Robert Lynd Subject: Craters grosbeak? From: "Mike Munts" <mmunts AT atcnet.net> Date: Thu, 25 Jun 2009 17:28:14 -0600 As a follow-up to my last post in case anyone needs some incentive to come bird Craters of the Moon. I finally completed my bird surveys I have been doing in between rain this June. While doing one of the backcountry routes yesterday I encountered an unusual bird. It never vocalized and I had to move on with the survey after a couple of minutes. But it was a little smaller than a Spotted Towhee and brown overall. The back was a little darker and the tail was much darker when it flew. It had light wing bars and a very heavy beak like a Black-headed Grosbeak or a cardinal.It was sticking to the sagebrush and bitterbrush but was at the edge of one of largest pine stands in and area with scattered trees. It was dead ringer for the female Blue Grosbeak in Sibley's. Unfortunately I did not take a camera and I have returned to the sight twice (although fairly late in the day) and was not able relocate it. Family commitments will keep from checking again until next week. If anyone wants to take a look it was adjacent to the Wilderness Trail where it leaves the Big Cinder Butte limber pine stand and moves into the north end of Trench Mortar Flat. This is a good 2+ miles from the trailhead but the birding along the way is pretty nice in the mornings. After all how many other place can you see Brewer's Sparrow, Red Crossbill, Clark's Nutcracker and more within a few feet of each other. Also, if anyone has a suggestion on what else my fit this description. I am willing to be corrected. Mike Arco Subject: Re: City of Rocks, Cassia Co. and a general request for help From: "Mike Munts" <mmunts AT atcnet.net> Date: Thu, 25 Jun 2009 16:56:03 -0600 City of Rocks is a great little gem for both birding and the magnificent scenery that is little know outside the rock climbing community. I would encourage folks to check it out. Harry's post brings up an interesting situation. Harry and I and Wallace the superintendent at City of Rocks have exchanged series of emails this week about this post. First I would like to thank Harry for both his original post and for the follow-up details. This started because I recognized the significance of the bunting at CIRO so I sent the message to the superintendent there who is quite familiar with their avifauna. He verified that Indigo Bunting has never been documented at City and that Ash-throated Flycatcher has been over 10 years. The point of this message is to encourage people to report these kinds of observations. Most National Park units do not have large natural resource staffs and we appreciate information from knowledgeable observers like Harry and many of the folks on IBLE. The National Park Service is attempting to develop and maintain species lists that occur on the lands we manage and we do use sightings information provided by knowledgeable birders. For example I have never seen Magnolia Warbler at Craters of the Moon but I can consider it verified because of a migration record provided by a birder for I am familiar with his abilities and he provided an excellent description. All NPS visitor centers in Idaho should have wildlife observation forms or you can email information to the contact information at the park's page on www.nps.gov. If you are at Craters feel free to ask for me. Any questions don't hesitate to ask. Watchable wildlife is part of our mandate and most NPS units have great birding of one kind or another. For those who don't know there are 7 National Park System units in Idaho. City of Rocks National Reserve Craters of the Moon National Monument Craters of the Moon National Preserve Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument Minidoka National Historic Site Nez Perce National Historical Park Yellowstone National Park (part of) I know there several folks from assorted wildlife and resource agencies besides myself on IBLE and I'm sure many of them would appreciate this sort of info as well. Mike Munts Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve michael_munts AT nps.gov ----- Original Message ----- From: J. Harry Krueger To: ible AT yahoogroups.com Sent: Sunday, June 21, 2009 3:33 PM Subject: [IBLE] City of Rocks, Cassia Co. and Curlew National Grasslands, Oneida Co. Yesterday (Saturday, 20 June) I made a whirlwind, one day run, beginning at City of Rocks National Reserve, Cassia County (where it rained almost all day, with few "clearing moments") and finishing the last four hours or so of daylight specifically searching for Scott's Oriole near Curlew National Grasslands (I spent Friday evening at the only motel in Albion). This is the first time I've actually birded City of Rocks and was very impressed with its birding potential of this sage and juniper covered area (to say nothing of the absolutely magnificent scenery. My goal at CofR was to find as many of the "southern/southeastern Idaho specialties" as possible (filling in a few remaining "year-bird holes" in the process... Damn that Heidi and Jay, diabolically drawing out the incurable competitive streak in me with their little game!)... while I was ostensibly exploring the "field ornithological composition and potential" of the area. I found all the likely and/or desired specialty species... minus Pinyon Jay (which is fairly easy to see elsewhere in the se portion of the state later), Black-thraoted Gray Warbler (which I've already seen in Owyhee Co ), and also Black-throated Sparrow., along with Blue Grosbeak (both of which I noted during the South Hills Census last weekend). Additionally, there was one "bonus" unexpected species (see below), as well as an always difficult to find, localized summer visitor, the latter accounting for almost 4 hours of my time until near dusk. In total I tallied 72 species, a respectable total considering the inclement weather and lack of any water associated birding. Here is the breakdown of specialty species seen at each locality: City of Rock National Reserve: Gray Falycatcher - present in low numbers, no where near as numerous as in the extreme sw portion (Owyhee County) Ash-thraoted Flycatcher - only two bird encoun tered (it is not on the "Reserve Bird List" available at headquarters in Almo) Western Scrub-Jay - less than ten all day Juniper Titmouse - easy to find by vocalization in the thick juniper habitat at the eastern entrance to the Reserve Bustit - easy to find near east entrance Blue-gray Gnatcatcher - a few spread out throughout, alerted by presence by voice Plumbeous Vireo - 2-4 along the Circle Creek overlook road. The Reserve Bird List does not list the species, an obvious mistake, with Cassin's Vireo, which only stops in migration, listed instead. Virginia's Warbler - noted (with photos taken of singing birds) between Elephant Rock and Bath Rock in the camping areas. I hsf no difficulty locating this species, whereas it can sometimes be troublesome to locate elsewhere in the se. Also seen well (during a rainy period from my car stopped along the road just past Bath Rock) was an mistakable adult plumaged male Indigo Bunting, obligingly sitting in the open atop a willow. (Had it not been raining, I very well may have missed this bird... Indigo Bunting was quite numerous throughout). Curlew National Grassland: Scott's Oriole - As some of you may know, the specific area/road where this extremely difficult to find in Idaho species had been found most regularly in the past, was among the dense junipers along and off of Road 8500 S (it actually heads east-west) driving toward I-84 and Black Pine. This road is still navigatable by regular passenger vehicle... but a summers ago there was a fire that destroyed most of the juniper here, leaving the area "oriole-less." Although I did check the few isolated remaining strands of juniper remaining, no orioles were to be found. Just to the south of the burn area, before crossing the state line into Utah, there is remaining dense juniper cover... the difficulty being access without an extremely long hike. I found that driving west along Road 10500 South was productive, where I was able to find two birds. The difficulty is that navigating this rutted track ("road" is an overstatement) without a high clearance, four wheel drive vehicle is impossible (I'm very thankful for my Jeep). It was time consumming and tedious... but eventually rewarding (Ash-throated Flycatcher was also tallied here.) (I did not cover the National Grassland proper for any other birds because of time constaints). J. Harry Krueger Boise Subject: List Counting revisited From: "J. Harry Krueger" <jhkrueger AT gmail.com> Date: Thu, 25 Jun 2009 16:35:20 -0600 The following was written by Greg Gillson, one of the more and active and skillful birders in the Pacific NW. Considering the recent discussion re: the "countability" of Northern Bobwhite, this concise perspective may be instructive and helpful to those confronted with the "counting conundrum." http://nwbackyardbirder.blogspot.com/ J. Harry Krueger Boise Subject: RE: City of Rocks, Cassia Co. and Curlew National Grasslands, Oneida Co. From: "Wayne Weber" <contopus AT telus.net> Date: Wed, 24 Jun 2009 12:52:02 -0700 Harry, I'm glad to hear that you have finally discovered the City of Rocks! I birded this area in 1996 and again in 1997, and I was able to find most of the species that you listed (with the exception of Juniper Titmouse, which I have yet to see in Idaho). This is indeed a worthwhile area both for the birding and the scenery (and also for rock climbing, for anyone who is so inclined). The Birch Creek Canyon between City of Rocks and Oakley is also a good birding area for quite a variety of species. Wayne C. Weber Delta, BC, Canada contopus AT telus.net From: ible AT yahoogroups.com [mailto:ible AT yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of J. Harry Krueger Sent: June-21-09 2:33 PM To: ible AT yahoogroups.com Subject: [IBLE] City of Rocks, Cassia Co. and Curlew National Grasslands, Oneida Co. Yesterday (Saturday, 20 June) I made a whirlwind, one day run, beginning at City of Rocks National Reserve, Cassia County (where it rained almost all day, with few "clearing moments") and finishing the last four hours or so of daylight specifically searching for Scott's Oriole near Curlew National Grasslands (I spent Friday evening at the only motel in Albion). This is the first time I've actually birded City of Rocks and was very impressed with its birding potential of this sage and juniper covered area (to say nothing of the absolutely magnificent scenery. My goal at CofR was to find as many of the "southern/southeastern Idaho specialties" as possible (filling in a few remaining "year-bird holes" in the process... Damn that Heidi and Jay, diabolically drawing out the incurable competitive streak in me with their little game!)... while I was ostensibly exploring the "field ornithological composition and potential" of the area. I found all the likely and/or desired specialty species... minus Pinyon Jay (which is fairly easy to see elsewhere in these portion of the state later), Black-throated Gray Warbler (which I've already seen in Owyhee Co ), and also Black-throated Sparrow., along with Blue Grosbeak (both of which I noted during the South Hills Census last weekend). Additionally, there was one "bonus" unexpected species (see below), as well as an always difficult to find, localized summer visitor, the latter accounting for almost 4 hours of my time until near dusk. In total I tallied 72 species, a respectable total considering the inclement weather and lack of any water associated birding. Here is the breakdown of specialty species seen at each locality: City of Rock National Reserve: Gray Flycatcher - present in low numbers, nowhere near as numerous as in the extreme sw portion (Owyhee County) Ash-throated Flycatcher - only two bird encoun tered (it is not on the "Reserve Bird List" available at headquarters in Almo) Western Scrub-Jay - less than ten all day Juniper Titmouse - easy to find by vocalization in the thick juniper habitat at the eastern entrance to the Reserve Bushtit - easy to find near east entrance Blue-gray Gnatcatcher - a few spread out throughout, alerted by presence by voice Plumbeous Vireo - 2-4 along the Circle Creek overlook road. The Reserve Bird List does not list the species, an obvious mistake, with Cassin's Vireo, which only stops in migration, listed instead. Virginia's Warbler - noted (with photos taken of singing birds) between Elephant Rock and Bath Rock in the camping areas. I had no difficulty locating this species, whereas it can sometimes be troublesome to locate elsewhere in the se. Also seen well (during a rainy period from my car stopped along the road just past Bath Rock) was an mistakable adult plumaged male Indigo Bunting, obligingly sitting in the open atop a willow. (Had it not been raining, I very well may have missed this bird... Indigo Bunting was quite numerous throughout). Curlew National Grassland: Scott's Oriole - As some of you may know, the specific area/road where this extremely difficult to find in Idaho species had been found most regularly in the past, was among the dense junipers along and off of Road 8500 S (it actually heads east-west) driving toward I-84 and Black Pine. This road is still navigable by regular passenger vehicle... but a summers ago there was a fire that destroyed most of the juniper here, leaving the area "oriole-less." Although I did check the few isolated remaining strands of juniper remaining, no orioles were to be found. Just to the south of the burn area, before crossing the state line into Utah, there is remaining dense juniper cover... the difficulty being access without an extremely long hike. I found that driving west along Road 10500 South was productive, where I was able to find two birds. The difficulty is that navigating this rutted track ("road" is an overstatement) without a high clearance, four wheel drive vehicle is impossible (I'm very thankful for my Jeep). It was time consuming and tedious... but eventually rewarding (Ash-throated Flycatcher was also tallied here.) (I did not cover the National Grassland proper for any other birds because of time constraints). J. Harry Krueger Boise Subject: Southwestern Idaho Birders Association, 6/27/2009, 12:00 am From: ible AT yahoogroups.com Date: 24 Jun 2009 05:55:32 -0000 Reminder from: ible Yahoo! Group http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ible/cal Southwestern Idaho Birders Association Saturday June 27, 2009 All Day Location: Silver City Notes: Southwestern Idaho Birders Association field trip to Silver City. Meet at Nampa HS parking lot on Lake Lowell Rd at 8AM. This is a full day trip. Bring lunch, water, and wear walking shoes. We will picnic at the Marston's cabin in Silver City. Trip leader, Cheryl Huizinga, 459-4116 All Rights Reserved Copyright © 2009 Yahoo! Inc. http://www.yahoo.com Privacy Policy: http://privacy.yahoo.com/privacy/us Terms of Service: http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/ Subject: Indigo Bunting clarification From: "J. Harry Krueger" <jhkrueger AT gmail.com> Date: Tue, 23 Jun 2009 17:42:16 -0600 It has been brought to my attention that in my post of Sunday, June 21 I wrote "Indigo Bunting was quite numerous throughout." This is an obvious error on my part, meaning to rather say "Lazuli Bunting was quite numerous throughout." I only saw the one Indigo Bunting at City of Rocks, Cassia County on Saturday, June 20. J. Harry Krueger Boise Subject: Re: barn swallows and intersections From: Jeff Bilsky <jbilsky AT gmail.com> Date: Mon, 22 Jun 2009 14:19:43 -0600 I attempted to share this information the other day but I think it bounced back. So here's what I found regarding this phenomenon in Colorado: There's a lot of traffic at local intersections these days. You may have noticed all the swallows dive-bombing intersections in front range cities. They are feasting on bugs and moths. The insects gather because of the stoplights and lights on cars. Bird experts say for tiny swallows with high metabolisms trying to feed hungry families - intersections are like a buffet. Once the baby birds are older and can hunt for themselves, mother swallows will be a little less frantic. On Mon, Jun 22, 2009 at 2:03 PM, Charles Swift wrote: > > > We see this phenomenon here in Moscow where nearby bridges are being > utilized for nesting. Many/most of the road bridges over Paradise Creek in > Moscow have nesting Barn Swallows. I've assumed the swallows were just > foraging at these intersection areas where they were near their nest sites. > Could it be the warmth of the pavement are attracting insects and perhaps > aquatic insects being killed by traffic that are providing food source? Some > aquatic insects even mistake pavement for water and hover over them when > attempting to lay eggs. I'm rather skeptical that car lights or stop lights > are attracting the insects as most foraging is during the day. The > intersections create a break in the flow of traffic which could provide the > foraging opportunities. I've assumed there must be some mortality associated > w/ this behavior but don't think I've seen any road killed Barn Swallows. It > would be interesting to map these areas and see if there are common features > and observe this behavior further. I did a quick google scholar search and > couldn't find any reports in the sci. literature. > > thanks, Charles. > > On Sun, Jun 21, 2009 at 12:51 PM, monty.thomson wrote: > >> >> >> QOTW >> >> so what's with all the barn swallows at intersections? >> >> > > > -- > Charles Swift > Moscow, ID > chaetura AT gmail.com > > -- Jeff Bilsky Salt Lake City jbilsky AT gmail.com www.endlesswilderness.com twitter.com/Bilsky Subject: Re: barn swallows and intersections From: Charles Swift <chaetura AT gmail.com> Date: Mon, 22 Jun 2009 13:03:30 -0700 We see this phenomenon here in Moscow where nearby bridges are being utilized for nesting. Many/most of the road bridges over Paradise Creek in Moscow have nesting Barn Swallows. I've assumed the swallows were just foraging at these intersection areas where they were near their nest sites. Could it be the warmth of the pavement are attracting insects and perhaps aquatic insects being killed by traffic that are providing food source? Some aquatic insects even mistake pavement for water and hover over them when attempting to lay eggs. I'm rather skeptical that car lights or stop lights are attracting the insects as most foraging is during the day. The intersections create a break in the flow of traffic which could provide the foraging opportunities. I've assumed there must be some mortality associated w/ this behavior but don't think I've seen any road killed Barn Swallows. It would be interesting to map these areas and see if there are common features and observe this behavior further. I did a quick google scholar search and couldn't find any reports in the sci. literature. thanks, Charles. On Sun, Jun 21, 2009 at 12:51 PM, monty.thomson wrote: > > > QOTW > > so what's with all the barn swallows at intersections? > > > -- Charles Swift Moscow, ID chaetura AT gmail.com Subject: Re: Northern Bobwhite - Beacon Light Rd - Ada Co. From: "J. Harry Krueger" <jhkrueger AT gmail.com> Date: Sun, 21 Jun 2009 21:41:19 -0600 "So is Harry depriving himself unnecessarily of additional species from his Big Year??" When the time comes, as I'm it someday will do, I'll then invoke the "Opps, I forgot that one" clause if someone gets to 318. :) Seriously (somewhat), there are birders that have all their lists "NIB" (No Introduced Birds). There was a period many years ago where some of the "top" birders in California (including an author of the NGS North American field guide) prided themselves in having a "pure, "NIB list" when submitting totals to ABA. Any takers? J. Harry Krueger Boise > . > > > Subject: Re: barn swallows and intersections From: Jeff Bilsky <jbilsky AT gmail.com> Date: Sun, 21 Jun 2009 17:10:18 -0600 I recently traveled to Colorado and noticed the same thing - did a little research and here's what I found: http://www.koaa.com/aaaa_top_stories/x1946142379/Swallows-buzz-motorists On Sun, Jun 21, 2009 at 1:51 PM, monty.thomson wrote: > > > QOTW > > so what's with all the barn swallows at intersections? > > > -- Jeff Bilsky Salt Lake City jbilsky AT gmail.com www.endlesswilderness.com twitter.com/Bilsky Subject: RE: barn swallows and intersections From: Gary Hendriksen <Garymh123 AT hotmail.com> Date: Sun, 21 Jun 2009 17:05:11 -0600 I noticed that for the first time the other day. It was like they were playing "chicken" with the cars. Strange! To: ible AT yahoogroups.com From: monty.thomson AT yahoo.com Date: Sun, 21 Jun 2009 19:51:17 +0000 Subject: [IBLE] barn swallows and intersections QOTW so what's with all the barn swallows at intersections? _________________________________________________________________ Lauren found her dream laptop. Find the PC that’s right for you. http://www.microsoft.com/windows/choosepc/?ocid=ftp_val_wl_290 Subject: City of Rocks, Cassia Co. and Curlew National Grasslands, Oneida Co. From: "J. Harry Krueger" <jhkrueger AT gmail.com> Date: Sun, 21 Jun 2009 21:33:01 -0000 Yesterday (Saturday, 20 June) I made a whirlwind, one day run, beginning at City of Rocks National Reserve, Cassia County (where it rained almost all day, with few "clearing moments") and finishing the last four hours or so of daylight specifically searching for Scott's Oriole near Curlew National Grasslands (I spent Friday evening at the only motel in Albion). This is the first time I've actually birded City of Rocks and was very impressed with its birding potential of this sage and juniper covered area (to say nothing of the absolutely magnificent scenery. My goal at CofR was to find as many of the "southern/southeastern Idaho specialties" as possible (filling in a few remaining "year-bird holes" in the process... Damn that Heidi and Jay, diabolically drawing out the incurable competitive streak in me with their little game!)... while I was ostensibly exploring the "field ornithological composition and potential" of the area. I found all the likely and/or desired specialty species... minus Pinyon Jay (which is fairly easy to see elsewhere in the se portion of the state later), Black-thraoted Gray Warbler (which I've already seen in Owyhee Co ), and also Black-throated Sparrow., along with Blue Grosbeak (both of which I noted during the South Hills Census last weekend). Additionally, there was one "bonus" unexpected species (see below), as well as an always difficult to find, localized summer visitor, the latter accounting for almost 4 hours of my time until near dusk. In total I tallied 72 species, a respectable total considering the inclement weather and lack of any water associated birding. Here is the breakdown of specialty species seen at each locality: City of Rock National Reserve: Gray Falycatcher - present in low numbers, no where near as numerous as in the extreme sw portion (Owyhee County) Ash-thraoted Flycatcher - only two bird encountered (it is not on the "Reserve Bird List" available at headquarters in Almo) Western Scrub-Jay - less than ten all day Juniper Titmouse - easy to find by vocalization in the thick juniper habitat at the eastern entrance to the Reserve Bustit - easy to find near east entrance Blue-gray Gnatcatcher - a few spread out throughout, alerted by presence by voice Plumbeous Vireo - 2-4 along the Circle Creek overlook road. The Reserve Bird List does not list the species, an obvious mistake, with Cassin's Vireo, which only stops in migration, listed instead. Virginia's Warbler - noted (with photos taken of singing birds) between Elephant Rock and Bath Rock in the camping areas. I hsf no difficulty locating this species, whereas it can sometimes be troublesome to locate elsewhere in the se. Also seen well (during a rainy period from my car stopped along the road just past Bath Rock) was an mistakable adult plumaged male Indigo Bunting, obligingly sitting in the open atop a willow. (Had it not been raining, I very well may have missed this bird... Indigo Bunting was quite numerous throughout). Curlew National Grassland: Scott's Oriole - As some of you may know, the specific area/road where this extremely difficult to find in Idaho species had been found most regularly in the past, was among the dense junipers along and off of Road 8500 S (it actually heads east-west) driving toward I-84 and Black Pine. This road is still navigatable by regular passenger vehicle... but a summers ago there was a fire that destroyed most of the juniper here, leaving the area "oriole-less." Although I did check the few isolated remaining strands of juniper remaining, no orioles were to be found. Just to the south of the burn area, before crossing the state line into Utah, there is remaining dense juniper cover... the difficulty being access without an extremely long hike. I found that driving west along Road 10500 South was productive, where I was able to find two birds. The difficulty is that navigating this rutted track ("road" is an overstatement) without a high clearance, four wheel drive vehicle is impossible (I'm very thankful for my Jeep). It was time consumming and tedious... but eventually rewarding (Ash-throated Flycatcher was also tallied here.) (I did not cover the National Grassland proper for any other birds because of time constaints). J. Harry Krueger Boise Subject: barn swallows and intersections From: "monty.thomson" <monty.thomson AT yahoo.com> Date: Sun, 21 Jun 2009 19:51:17 -0000 QOTW so what's with all the barn swallows at intersections? Subject: Re: Northern Bobwhite - Beacon Light Rd - Ada Co. From: Charles Swift <chaetura AT gmail.com> Date: Sat, 20 Jun 2009 08:20:22 -0700 I guess I didn't intend it to be an all inclusive list of introduced fowl-like (or gallinaceous) birds but if so we also need to add California Quail and as Harry mentioned Gambel's Quail. With regard to Gambel's Quail, contra to Harry, I'm under the impression that most Idaho state listers do count this species for individuals found in the Lemhi Valley (near Salmon, ID). According to Burleigh this population was established from introductions in the 1920's and was still going strong when he wrote "Birds of Idaho" in the late 60's. My assumption is this population is not augmented by releases - please correct me if this wrong. So is Harry depriving himself unnecessarily of additional species from his Big Year?? Charles. On Fri, Jun 19, 2009 at 12:11 PM, Terry Gray wrote: > Charles, > > You omitted Wild Turkey which is also not native to Idaho. > > Terry > > -----Original Message----- > *From:* ible AT yahoogroups.com [mailto:ible AT yahoogroups.com]*On Behalf Of *Charles > Swift > *Sent:* Friday, June 19, 2009 8:44 AM > *To:* Ible AT Yahoogroups.Com > *Subject:* Re: [IBLE] Northern Bobwhite - Beacon Light Rd - Ada Co. > > > > Just to be clear on one thing (and I think Harry alluded to this), Northern > Bobwhite are not native to Idaho, that is they have never (at least to > anyone's knowledge) occurred naturally in Idaho. There apparently have been > established populations from introductions in the past. Burleigh mentions > successful introductions as early as 1877 in the Boise area. It does seem > that these self-sustaining populations are no more. Regardless of how one > wants to treat these on their personal lists, it is worth tracking > these occasional reports as they may eventually result in self-sustaining > populations and these records provide a history of that. For example I > usually allow N. Bobwhite to be reported on Christmas Bird Counts for just > this purpose. > > Pheasants, chukars, and Gray Partridge are also not native to Idaho, or > N.A.for that matter, but are well established as self-sustaining populations > in Idaho. Of course some/all of these species are also released by bird > hunting clubs or private hunting reserves so in some cases in can be hard to > know if an individual of one of these is really a wild bird. > > thanks, Charles. > > > -- > Charles Swift > Moscow, ID > chaetura AT gmail.com > > > -- Charles Swift Moscow, ID chaetura AT gmail.com Subject: Canyon Co. Birds for 2009 From: "Cheryl Huizinga" <bchuizinga AT cableone.net> Date: Sat, 20 Jun 2009 08:18:52 -0600 Hi Birders, Here's the latest additions to the Canyon Co. Bird List for 2009. Take care and Happy Birding Out There. Cheryl Huizinga bchuizinga AT cableone.net 171. Cassin's Vireo - 5/20 - Symms Forest - Cheryl Huizing 172. Black Tern - 5/24 - Lake Lowell Lower Dam - Brian Cooper 173. Gray Catbird - 6/3 - Locust Lane, So. of Lake Lowell - Nettie Smoot 174. Lark Sparrow - 4/29 - So. of Nampa - Darrell Marks 175. Common Nighthawk - 6/4 - So. of Nampa - Jim Holcomb 176. Eastern Kingbird - 6/7 - So. 10th Ave. /Orchard Ave., Caldwell - Bobbi Cross 177. Yellow-breasted Chat - 6/11 - Martin's Access - Boise River - Cheryl Huizinga 178. Warbling Vireo - 6/12 - So. of Caldwell - Cheryl Huizinga 179. Western Tanager - 6/13 - Symms Forest - Jody Symms Subject: Southwestern Idaho Birders Association, 6/27/2009, 12:00 am From: ible AT yahoogroups.com Date: 20 Jun 2009 05:59:04 -0000 Reminder from: ible Yahoo! Group http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ible/cal Southwestern Idaho Birders Association Saturday June 27, 2009 All Day (The next reminder for this event will be sent in 4 days, 1 minute.) Location: Silver City Notes: Southwestern Idaho Birders Association field trip to Silver City. Meet at Nampa HS parking lot on Lake Lowell Rd at 8AM. This is a full day trip. Bring lunch, water, and wear walking shoes. We will picnic at the Marston's cabin in Silver City. Trip leader, Cheryl Huizinga, 459-4116 All Rights Reserved Copyright © 2009 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: Northern Bobwhite - Beacon Light Rd - Ada Co. From: "J. Harry Krueger" <jhkrueger AT gmail.com> Date: Fri, 19 Jun 2009 14:13:13 -0600 To just be clear... and probably this comment is unnecessary for most... just because a species is "not native to Idaho" does not mean it does not at times naturally occur here. There are many species on the state list which are vagrants, and/or not native to the state, but are deemed to have arrived here under their own power as migrants or seasonal wanderers. The species that we are concerned with in this conversation are those that are basically non-migratory and resident to the areas in which they naturally breed. Now, another species that should probably be looked at in the non-resident/non-migratory/non-dispersal category, which occurs on the state list presently, is Gambel's Quail. Hmmmm..... (No, I did *not* count it on my Big Year list in "04). J. Harry Krueger Boise On Fri, Jun 19, 2009 at 1:11 PM, Terry Gray wrote: > > > Charles, > > You omitted Wild Turkey which is also not native to Idaho. > > Terry > -----Original Message----- > *From:* ible AT yahoogroups.com [mailto:ible AT yahoogroups.com]*On Behalf Of *Charles > Swift > *Sent:* Friday, June 19, 2009 8:44 AM > *To:* Ible AT Yahoogroups.Com > *Subject:* Re: [IBLE] Northern Bobwhite - Beacon Light Rd - Ada Co. > > Just to be clear on one thing (and I think Harry alluded to this), > Northern Bobwhite are not native to Idaho, that is they have never (at least > to anyone's knowledge) occurred naturally in Idaho. There apparently have > been established populations from introductions in the past. Burleigh > mentions successful introductions as early as 1877 in the Boise area. It > does seem that these self-sustaining populations are no more. Regardless of > how one wants to treat these on their personal lists, it is worth tracking > these occasional reports as they may eventually result in self-sustaining > populations and these records provide a history of that. For example I > usually allow N. Bobwhite to be reported on Christmas Bird Counts for just > this purpose. > > Pheasants, chukars, and Gray Partridge are also not native to Idaho, or > N.A.for that matter, but are well established as self-sustaining populations > in Idaho. Of course some/all of these species are also released by bird > hunting clubs or private hunting reserves so in some cases in can be hard to > know if an individual of one of these is really a wild bird. > > thanks, Charles. > > > -- > Charles Swift > Moscow, ID > chaetura AT gmail.com > > > Subject: RE: Northern Bobwhite - Beacon Light Rd - Ada Co. From: "Terry Gray" <clgtlg AT moscow.com> Date: Fri, 19 Jun 2009 12:11:45 -0700 Charles, You omitted Wild Turkey which is also not native to Idaho. Terry -----Original Message----- From: ible AT yahoogroups.com [mailto:ible AT yahoogroups.com]On Behalf Of Charles Swift Sent: Friday, June 19, 2009 8:44 AM To: Ible AT Yahoogroups.Com Subject: Re: [IBLE] Northern Bobwhite - Beacon Light Rd - Ada Co. Just to be clear on one thing (and I think Harry alluded to this), Northern Bobwhite are not native to Idaho, that is they have never (at least to anyone's knowledge) occurred naturally in Idaho. There apparently have been established populations from introductions in the past. Burleigh mentions successful introductions as early as 1877 in the Boise area. It does seem that these self-sustaining populations are no more. Regardless of how one wants to treat these on their personal lists, it is worth tracking these occasional reports as they may eventually result in self-sustaining populations and these records provide a history of that. For example I usually allow N. Bobwhite to be reported on Christmas Bird Counts for just this purpose. Pheasants, chukars, and Gray Partridge are also not native to Idaho, or N.A.for that matter, but are well established as self-sustaining populations in Idaho. Of course some/all of these species are also released by bird hunting clubs or private hunting reserves so in some cases in can be hard to know if an individual of one of these is really a wild bird. thanks, Charles. -- Charles Swift Moscow, ID chaetura AT gmail.com Subject: Re: Northern Bobwhite - Beacon Light Rd - Ada Co. From: Charles Swift <chaetura AT gmail.com> Date: Fri, 19 Jun 2009 08:44:03 -0700 Just to be clear on one thing (and I think Harry alluded to this), Northern Bobwhite are not native to Idaho, that is they have never (at least to anyone's knowledge) occurred naturally in Idaho. There apparently have been established populations from introductions in the past. Burleigh mentions successful introductions as early as 1877 in the Boise area. It does seem that these self-sustaining populations are no more. Regardless of how one wants to treat these on their personal lists, it is worth tracking these occasional reports as they may eventually result in self-sustaining populations and these records provide a history of that. For example I usually allow N. Bobwhite to be reported on Christmas Bird Counts for just this purpose. Pheasants, chukars, and Gray Partridge are also not native to Idaho, or N.A.for that matter, but are well established as self-sustaining populations in Idaho. Of course some/all of these species are also released by bird hunting clubs or private hunting reserves so in some cases in can be hard to know if an individual of one of these is really a wild bird. thanks, Charles. -- Charles Swift Moscow, ID chaetura AT gmail.com Subject: Magnolia Warbler Photo Album From: "cameronkathleena" <magicfeathers AT cox.net> Date: Thu, 18 Jun 2009 23:57:01 -0000 I have just created an album in the photo section titled: Magnolia Warbler. There are 4 images that I took hand held with my 70 to 400mm zoom lens from approx. 50 feet away and the birds was 20 or so feet up in the conifer tree. Kathleen Bellevue, ID Subject: Magnolia Warbler Hailey From: "cameronkathleena" <magicfeathers AT cox.net> Date: Thu, 18 Jun 2009 22:51:24 -0000 This afternoon Jack, Jay, and Heidi were grabbing a quick bite to eat at the Subway in Hailey. While there Jack heard a Magnolia Warbler singing nearby so they all went on a search and quickly found it at the corner of 1st Ave North and E. Myrtle Street. A bird alert chain call was issued and soon many of us decended on the area. We all had great views of the warbler in the conifers and birch trees in the yard on the south west corner of this intersection. Just before I left this dazzling visitor he flew to the trees on the south west corner. He's a handsome beautiful bird and if you travel to this intersection and listen for a while you will likely get to see him. I will post some photos later this evening. Kathleen Bellevue, ID Subject: Flicker family residence From: "d6stone" <verc AT cableone.net> Date: Thu, 18 Jun 2009 20:23:41 -0000 A pair of red-shafted Northern flickers have nested in my birch tree. The nestlings are maturing so the parents no longer enter the cavity to feed. The three young are often poking their heads out and squawking for the parents to bring food, which they do. I suspect they will fledge soon. The cavity is visible from my driveway with good opportunities for observing or photographing while standing or seated nearby. If someone is interested in viewing or photography, contact me via email at verc AT cableone.net or you may phone my cell 890-5261. Diann Stone Boise Bench Subject: RE: Northern Bobwhite - Beacon Light Rd - Ada Co. From: Michael Wiegand <onwingsof_Pearl AT Hotmail.com> Date: Wed, 17 Jun 2009 22:57:10 -0600 I concur with Harry...unless 'reintroduced' (primarily for bird dog training/hunting purposes) this species, unfortunately, appears 'unnatural' in our current environment. ...for example, a pair showed up in our Pearl backyard a couple years ago in early spring...a nice addition to the quail especially with their 'BOB-white' calls...but alas, come autumn the bird hunters had taken their toll and no more Bob-whites in Pearl (until they are released again). 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: jhkrueger AT gmail.com Date: Wed, 17 Jun 2009 22:37:16 -0600 Subject: Re: [IBLE] Northern Bobwhite - Beacon Light Rd - Ada Co. Robert and all, It seems that every year there are one or more "legitimate" reports of Northern Bobwhite in Idaho. By legitimate, I mean that the bird was correctly identified and obviously encountered "in the wild." I am sure that this bird is no exception, except... What we must understand when it comes to classifying these as legitimately wild birds, which are part of a sustainable, non-human released and/or assisted population, is that these are have been shown to be birds that have been released into the wild, either by private hunting, dog training, or wild game organizations or individuals. Northern Bobwhite has been extirpated from Idaho for some years now, and is also no longer found in what was its last "wild population fortress" in the agricultural lands surrounding Ontario, Malheur County, OR (some currently well used and generally reliable field guides still have a "dot" for the Treasure Valley when plotting Northern Bobwhite's geographic occurrence.) On a personal level, if there was ever a time that I desperately wanted to tally every "countable bird" in Idaho it was 2004 when I slogged through my record Big Year of 318 species. A Northern Bobwhite which I saw in a rural area barely outside of Boise would have brought my total to 319... but alas, I did not and could not conscientiously "count" it. Unless population dynamics change dramatically, Northern Bobwhite is presently not countable... but then the flip side is that everyone's list is just that - it is their list. What is on it and what the rules for inclusion are into that personal domain, are just that - personal (although many active birders follow the guidelines for list inclusion stipulated by the American Birding Association). Undoubtedly, any "new bird" seen in the wild is always an enjoyable experience... but when considering what is a legitimate population, a bird now commonly raised in captivity and released for "sport purposes," such as the Northern Bobwhite, which is not native to the Pacific Northwest, should not be "counted" on an Idaho based birding list of species currently seen ... in my opinion. J. Harry Krueger Boise On Wed, Jun 17, 2009 at 9:30 PM, Robert wrote: Tonight at about 8:55pm I observed a Northern Bobwhite on a fence post in agricultural land along Beacon Light Rd near the intersection of Palmer Lane in Ada County. I was able to observe it for a few minutes before it jumped off the post and ran into the plant covered field. I didn't have a field guide at the time, but my notes on an envelope are as follows: Quail-like bird About the same size Maybe plumper White and Dark face pattern White throat Short tail Gray and rusty colored body some white spots/pattern Does anyone know if these birds are being bred domestically in Ada County? If this was indeed a wild bird and officially countable, I would sure love it as it would be my milestone life bird #300. Happy Birding! - Robert Mortensen 208-921-1202 Avimor Birding Blog Subject: Re: Northern Bobwhite - Beacon Light Rd - Ada Co. From: "J. Harry Krueger" <jhkrueger AT gmail.com> Date: Wed, 17 Jun 2009 22:37:16 -0600 Robert and all, It seems that every year there are one or more "legitimate" reports of Northern Bobwhite in Idaho. By legitimate, I mean that the bird was correctly identified and obviously encountered "in the wild." I am sure that this bird is no exception, except... What we must understand when it comes to classifying these as legitimately wild birds, which are part of a sustainable, non-human released and/or assisted population, is that these are have been shown to be birds that have been released into the wild, either by private hunting, dog training, or wild game organizations or individuals. Northern Bobwhite has been extirpated from Idaho for some years now, and is also no longer found in what was its last "wild population fortress" in the agricultural lands surrounding Ontario, Malheur County, OR (some currently well used and generally reliable field guides still have a "dot" for the Treasure Valley when plotting Northern Bobwhite's geographic occurrence.) On a personal level, if there was ever a time that I desperately wanted to tally every "countable bird" in Idaho it was 2004 when I slogged through my record Big Year of 318 species. A Northern Bobwhite which I saw in a rural area barely outside of Boise would have brought my total to 319... but alas, I did not and could not conscientiously "count" it. Unless population dynamics change dramatically, Northern Bobwhite is presently not countable... but then the flip side is that everyone's list is just that - it is *their* list. What is on it and what the rules for inclusion are into that personal domain, are just that - personal (although many active birders follow the guidelines for list inclusion stipulated by the American Birding Association). Undoubtedly, any "new bird" seen in the wild is always an enjoyable experience... but when considering what is a legitimate population, a bird now commonly raised in captivity and released for "sport purposes," such as the Northern Bobwhite, which is not native to the Pacific Northwest, should not be "counted" on an Idaho based birding list of species currently seen ... in my opinion. J. Harry Krueger Boise On Wed, Jun 17, 2009 at 9:30 PM, Robert wrote: > > > Tonight at about 8:55pm I observed a Northern Bobwhite on a fence post in > agricultural land along Beacon Light Rd near the intersection of Palmer Lane > in Ada County. I was able to observe it for a few minutes before it jumped > off the post and ran into the plant covered field. I didn't have a field > guide at the time, but my notes on an envelope are as follows: > > Quail-like bird > About the same size > Maybe plumper > White and Dark face pattern > White throat > Short tail > Gray and rusty colored body > some white spots/pattern > > Does anyone know if these birds are being bred domestically in Ada County? > If this was indeed a wild bird and officially countable, I would sure love > it as it would be my milestone life bird #300. > > Happy Birding! > > - Robert Mortensen > 208-921-1202 > > Avimor Birding Blog > > Subject: Northern Bobwhite - Beacon Light Rd - Ada Co. From: "Robert" <robert.mortensen AT suncorid.com> Date: Thu, 18 Jun 2009 03:30:35 -0000 Tonight at about 8:55pm I observed a Northern Bobwhite on a fence post in agricultural land along Beacon Light Rd near the intersection of Palmer Lane in Ada County. I was able to observe it for a few minutes before it jumped off the post and ran into the plant covered field. I didn't have a field guide at the time, but my notes on an envelope are as follows: Quail-like birdAbout the same sizeMaybe plumperWhite and Dark face patternWhite throatShort tailGray and rusty colored bodysome white spots/pattern Does anyone know if these birds are being bred domestically in Ada County? If this was indeed a wild bird and officially countable, I would sure love it as it would be my milestone life bird #300. Happy Birding! - Robert Mortensen208-921-1202 Avimor Birding Blog Subject: Kootenai and Benewah County Big Year From: "Shirley Sturts" <shirley.sturts AT gmail.com> Date: Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:18:36 -0700 Kootenai #174 American Redstart May 24 Lisa Hardy #175 Veery May 30 Kris Buchler (leader on CDA Audubon Field Trip) #176 Hermit Thrush June 6 Kris and Ed Buchler Mivoden BBS #177 Wilson's Warbler June 6 Kris and Ed Buchler Mivoden BBS Benewah County By Charles Swift May 17 Heyburn State Park and Shadowy St. Joe 92-101 #92 Common Loon #93 Sora #94 Dusky Flycatcher #95 Winter Wren #96 Orange-crowned warbler #97 Nashville Warbler #98 Townsend's Warbler #99 Northern Waterthrush #100 Brown-headed Cowbird By Donni Moen Saint Maries 102-106 #101 Eurasian Wigeon June 6 #102 Redhead June 6 #103 Gray Catbird June 8 #104 Lazuli Bunting June 13 #105 American Goldfinch June 13 Saint Maries Ellen Mackenzie By Lisa Hardy and Kris Buchler June 16 108-112 #106 Blue-winged Teal #107 Bufflehead #108 Spotted Sandpiper #109 Willow Flycatcher #110 Western Wood-Pewee Shirley Sturts Coeur d'A Shirley Sturts Coeur d'Alene, ID Subject: 2009 Ada County Big Year List From: "Lew & Connie Ulrey" <lulrey AT cableone.net> Date: Tue, 16 Jun 2009 21:07:22 -0600 Hello everyone, Just as I thought we had reached the point of diminishing returns in the 2009 Big Year List effort, Ada County birders have found more species: #204 Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, 6/12, Bogus Basin Road (MP 3-4), Scott Tuthill #205 Great-tailed Grackle, 6/13, Settler's Park, Meridian, Robert Mortensen #206 Sora, 6/16, Boise River at Crow Inn, RL Rowland Lew Ulrey Boise lulrey AT cableone.net Subject: Eurasian Collared-Dove From: "rbird1286" <ruthanngreene AT yahoo.com> Date: Mon, 15 Jun 2009 23:19:37 -0000 I just saw one in my backyard in S. Meridian. Are these birds becoming more common in the Treasure Valley? Ruthann Subject: water logged From: Michael Wiegand <onwingsof_Pearl AT Hotmail.com> Date: Mon, 15 Jun 2009 12:43:58 -0600 was very surprised to find an adult male rufous hummingbird at one of the feeders this morning out here in Pearl. he's either very, very late on the inbound or very, very early on the outbound side of migration ... but my hunch is that he's tired of all the wet weather and thinks cabo san lucas sounds pretty good right about now! Michael Wiegand Pearl, Idaho 208-859-3643-c 208-286-0506-h www.habiscapes.com "the truth is out there!" Subject: SIBA Field Trip to Daggett Creek 6/13/09 [4 Attachments] From: "Cheryl Huizinga" <bchuizinga AT cableone.net> Date: Mon, 15 Jun 2009 08:01:33 -0600 Hi Birders, The SIBA Field Trip to Daggett Creek with hosts Al and Hilda Larson started out with 17 birders at the Daggett Creek Bridge on Hwy 21 with overcast skies but sunny dispositions. Even though the skies threatened we only got lightly sprinkled on throughout the day. The walk along More's Creek and up Dunnigan Cr. Road was very pleasant with the cooler temperatures. Great looks were had at Osprey, Cedar Waxwings, Yellow-breasted Chats, Lazuli Buntings, Western Tanagers, Gray Catbirds, and others. Lunch on the lawn at the Larson's was a delight with Calliope and Black-chinned Hummingbirds, Pine Siskin, Cassin's Finch, Red-breasted Nuthatch, and even Wild Turkeys coming into the yard and feeders. A Steller's Jay surprised us with a perfect imitation of a Red-tailed Hawk as it swooped in. Five birders decided to take the "Forced March" up the mountain with Al after lunch. The birds seen were fairly routine except for a Swainson's Thrush sitting on a nest in brush along the creek. Another wonderful day at the Ranch with Al and Hilda Larson. We thank them for their warm hospitality. Cheryl Huizinga SIBA Field Trip Leader Species seen: Canada Goose Wild Turkey California Quail Great Blue Heron Turkey Vulture Osprey Red-tailed Hawk American Kestrel Spotted Sandpiper Mourning Dove Black-chinned Hummingbird Calliope Hummingbird Belted Kingfisher Northern Flicker Western Wood-pewee Dusky Flycatcher Western Kingbird Cassin's Vireo Warbling Vireo Steller's Jay Violet-green Swallow Northern Rough-winged Swallow Cliff Swallow Barn Swallow Black-capped Chickadee Red-breasted Nuthatch Rock Wren American Dipper Western Bluebird Swainson's Thrush American Robin Gray Catbird European Starling Cedar Waxwing Yellow Warbler Yellow-rumped Warbler Yellow-breasted Chat Western Tanager Spotted Towhee Chipping Sparrow Song Sparrow Dark-eyed Junco Black-headed Grosbeak Lazuli Bunting Brown-headed Cowbird Bullock's Oriole Cassin's Finch Pine Siskin American Goldfinch Subject: Jh Krueger looked for you on MyLife From: Jh Krueger <jhkrueger AT gmail.com> Date: Sun, 14 Jun 2009 17:28:10 -0700 Jh Krueger added you as a friend on MyLife(TM). Please confirm you know Jh so we can connect you. Do You Know Jh? YES - Connect with Jh, and see who's searching for you http://smtp26.mail.reunion.com:80/track?type=click&mailingid=68900&messageid=12900&databaseid=1238061938&serial=1228209694&emailid=ible AT yahoogroups.com&userid=65552&extra=&&&2002&&&http://www.mylife.com/showInviteRegistration.do?uid=362359246&invitee=ible AT yahoogroups.com NO - I don't know Jh http://smtp26.mail.reunion.com:80/track?type=click&mailingid=68900&messageid=12900&databaseid=1238061938&serial=1228209694&emailid=ible AT yahoogroups.com&userid=65552&extra=&&&2000&&&http://www.mylife.com/showInviteRegistration.do?unsub=true&invitee=ible AT yahoogroups.com&uid=362359246 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ MyLife - Find everyone. All in one place.(TM) You have received this email because a MyLife member sent an invitation to this email address. For assistance, please refer to our FAQ or Contact Us: http://smtp26.mail.reunion.com:80/track?type=click&mailingid=68900&messageid=12900&databaseid=1238061938&serial=1228209694&emailid=ible AT yahoogroups.com&userid=65552&extra=&&&2001&&&http://help.mylife.com/ Our Address: 2118 Wilshire Blvd., Box 1008, Santa Monica, CA 90403-5784 Copyright (c) 2009 MyLife.com, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Subject: Re: Common Nighthawk From: "J. Harry Krueger" <jhkrueger AT gmail.com> Date: Sun, 14 Jun 2009 22:39:28 -0000 It is a well known fact that in the Eastern US, Common Nighthawk does indeed often nest on rooftops within urban areas. J. Harry Krueger Boise --- In ible AT yahoogroups.com, "Jim Greaves" wrote: > > I've known of Killdeer nesting on flat roofs... Any chance someone could determine if nighthawks have adapted to such "habitat" - if for no other reason than to get away from dogs, cats and other non-avian predators that seem to proliferate among humans? - Jim Greaves, Thompson Falls > > --- In ible AT yahoogroups.com, "J. Harry Krueger" jhkrueger AT wrote: > > > > At sunrise today I also saw at least five different birds hawking the area > > near the intersection of Overland Road and Curtis Road. It is sadly true > > that Common Nighthawk has been on the decline in the immediate greater Boise > > area over some years, although they are still fairly easy to find outside > > and on the edges of the city. These sightings today are significant simply > > because it is probably too late for these birds to be migrants (although > > Common Nighthawk is one of our latest... and most chronologically > > predictable... spring migrants) and therefore these are most likely > > individuals that are roosting and/or nesting within the city limits > > somewhere... and provide us with a positive and hopeful sign of the "return" > > to the city of this species. > > > > J. Harry Krueger, Boise > > > > On Thu, Jun 11, 2009 at 7:26 PM, Lew & Connie Ulrey lulrey AT wrote: > > > > > > > > > > > Hello everyone, > > > > > > Just an hour ago a Common Nighthawk was patrolling the > > > skies over our neighborhood. It is so sad that this once common species is > > > now almost a once a year bird for many of us. > > > > > > > > > > > > Lew Ulrey > > > > > > Boise > > > > > > lulrey AT > > > > > > > > > > > > > > > Subject: South Hills Census... one perspective From: "J. Harry Krueger" <jhkrueger AT gmail.com> Date: Sun, 14 Jun 2009 14:49:56 -0600 Yesterday (Saturday, 6/1/09) I participated in the second annual South Hills June Bird Census. Although the day was intermittently rainy, a group of just over 12 dozen persons in four groups were able to find (and individually count) just about 140 species (only a few shy of last year's inaugural total of 143). My group of three (one a non-birding driver) was able to tally almost 100 species. (My personal "internal" competition and goal drive wound up just shy of the respectable daily centennial mark.) Included in my discoveries was a lone *Black-throated Sparrow* (always a very difficult species to find anywhere in Idaho) and multiple *Ash-throated Flycatchers* (not very numerous, although perhaps increasing, in this relatively recently designated International Bird Area of Importance). A bit more disappointing/disturbing was that I reported the only *"South Hills" Red Crosbill* (personally heard and then seen by my birding partner for the day, Julie Randall.) This bird is a unique form (labeled as "Red Crossbill form #9" in some scientific papers) that has been recently postulated as a separate species by some (which would potentially make it Idaho's only endemic bird species.) A most welcome ending to the day was viewing a *Blue Grosbeak* (male), a bird I have managed to miss seeing in Idaho (even during my record breaking 318 species Big Year in 2004). Although considered a very sparse regular breeder in the extreme southern portion of the state, it is not even every year that one is reported by the birding community here. My sincere thanks to Louie Quintana. who found this bird (actually, both a male and female, suggesting breeding possibility) near the beginning of his route with his group. Now I''m even more glad I "talked him into coming along." :) Which brings up the whole issue of birder participation in this annual count... I personally believe that because of both the overall potential that this much "under-birded" area holds and because of the wider ornithological importance of the South Hills (especially considering the renewed interest in the "South Hills Crossbill"), I hope that many more birders will even now make plans to participate in this satisfying event next year. The overall geographic area of the "South Hills" is very large (spanning portions of two counties) and obviously benefits from any more intensive coverage that can be provided. * Karl Ruprecht *is especially to be commended and thanked for his hard work in bringing this area's birds to the attention of the both the larger ornithological community and the habitat conservation movement. I'm sure that he will provide us all with a more comprehensive accounting of yesterday's achievements at a later time. J. Harry Krueger Boise Subject: Sapsucker ID Challenge answer posted to BirdFellow.com From: David Irons <davidirons20 AT yahoo.com> Date: Sun, 14 Jun 2009 09:41:56 -0700 (PDT) This morning I posted the Sapsucker ID Challenge answer to the BirdFellow.com online journal. I want to thank Steve Mlodinow for some nice nuggets of information he was able to provide. Dave Irons Content Editor BirdFellow.com Subject: some birder demographics I found on the USFWS website From: jonathan stoke <helio_jonathan AT yahoo.com> Date: Sun, 14 Jun 2009 08:44:41 -0700 (PDT) Just in case this may be of interest to you ... I'll note that Idaho has more per capita birders than many other states, with Montana at the top in this category.   "While 44 percent of Montanans and 43 percent of Vermonters watched birds, only 14 percent of Californians and Texans did."   If such tidbits of information interest you, here's the title and URL for the full report.  Oh, and the participation rate in Idaho is 29%.   U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Birding in the United States: A Demographic and Economic Analysis Addendum to the 2001National Survey of Fishing, Hunting and Wildlife-Associated Recreation Report 2001-1   http://training.fws.gov/library/Surveys/birding01.pdf Subject: Avimor Bird Walk Report From: "Robert" <robert.mortensen AT suncorid.com> Date: Sat, 13 Jun 2009 17:12:20 -0000 Five of us enjoyed a good number of bird species this morning while hiking around Avimor's Spring Valley Creek. We observed four Gray Catbirds, a solitary Chukar, Rock Wrens, a single Canyon Wren, several Lazuli Buntings, Bullock's Orioles, a few Western Tanagers, Chipping Sparrows, Western Wood-Pewees, Western and Eastern Kingbirds, and Yellow-breated Chats. Not sure if it is good or bad, but we also observed the first House Sparrow seen at Avimor. At 7am we started up the canyon and at nine we started along the greenbelt. We got drizzled on a bit, but the 38 species of birds were great. Subject: Great-tailed Grackle in Meridian From: "Robert" <robert.mortensen AT suncorid.com> Date: Sat, 13 Jun 2009 17:04:33 -0000 Yesterday evening, while at a picnic I found a female Great-tailed Grackle at Settler's Park in Meridian. As typical from what I remember in AZ, they love to scavange among peoples left-overs and garbage. Subject: Re: Common Nighthawk From: "Jim Greaves" <lbviman AT blackfoot.net> Date: Sat, 13 Jun 2009 14:03:17 -0000 I've known of Killdeer nesting on flat roofs... Any chance someone could determine if nighthawks have adapted to such "habitat" - if for no other reason than to get away from dogs, cats and other non-avian predators that seem to proliferate among humans? - Jim Greaves, Thompson Falls --- In ible AT yahoogroups.com, "J. Harry Krueger" wrote: > > At sunrise today I also saw at least five different birds hawking the area > near the intersection of Overland Road and Curtis Road. It is sadly true > that Common Nighthawk has been on the decline in the immediate greater Boise > area over some years, although they are still fairly easy to find outside > and on the edges of the city. These sightings today are significant simply > because it is probably too late for these birds to be migrants (although > Common Nighthawk is one of our latest... and most chronologically > predictable... spring migrants) and therefore these are most likely > individuals that are roosting and/or nesting within the city limits > somewhere... and provide us with a positive and hopeful sign of the "return" > to the city of this species. > > J. Harry Krueger, Boise > > On Thu, Jun 11, 2009 at 7:26 PM, Lew & Connie Ulrey wrote: > > > > > > > Hello everyone, > > > > Just an hour ago a Common Nighthawk was patrolling the > > skies over our neighborhood. It is so sad that this once common species is > > now almost a once a year bird for many of us. > > > > > > > > Lew Ulrey > > > > Boise > > > > lulrey AT ... > > > > > > > > > Subject: Re: Common Nighthawk From: "J. Harry Krueger" <jhkrueger AT gmail.com> Date: Fri, 12 Jun 2009 15:57:29 -0600 At sunrise today I also saw at least five different birds hawking the area near the intersection of Overland Road and Curtis Road. It is sadly true that Common Nighthawk has been on the decline in the immediate greater Boise area over some years, although they are still fairly easy to find outside and on the edges of the city. These sightings today are significant simply because it is probably too late for these birds to be migrants (although Common Nighthawk is one of our latest... and most chronologically predictable... spring migrants) and therefore these are most likely individuals that are roosting and/or nesting within the city limits somewhere... and provide us with a positive and hopeful sign of the "return" to the city of this species. J. Harry Krueger, Boise On Thu, Jun 11, 2009 at 7:26 PM, Lew & Connie Ulrey wrote: > > > Hello everyone, > > Just an hour ago a Common Nighthawk was patrolling the > skies over our neighborhood. It is so sad that this once common species is > now almost a once a year bird for many of us. > > > > Lew Ulrey > > Boise > > lulrey AT cableone.net > > > > Subject: Elmore County Update From: Betty <bettyplusbob AT gmail.com> Date: Fri, 12 Jun 2009 12:03:26 -0600 141. White-throated Swift, May 30, Canyon of South Fork Boise River, Cheryl Huizinga 142. Black-chinned Hummingbird, May 28, Fall Cr. Rd Cheryl Huizinger 143. Calliope Hummingbird, May 28, Fall Cr. Rd Cheryl Huizinger 144. Hairy Woodpecker, May 28, Fall Cr. Rd Cheryl Huizinger 145. Black-backed Woodpecker, May 28, Fall Cr. Rd Cheryl Huizinger 146. White-headed Woodpecker, May 28, Fall Cr. Rd Cheryl Huizinger 147. Hammond’s Flycatcher, May 29, Fall Cr. Rd Cheryl Huizinger 148. Warbling Vireo, May 29, Fall Cr. Rd Cheryl Huizinger 149. Mountain Chickadee, May 30, Fall Cr. Rd, Cheryl Huizinger 150. American Dipper, May 29, Fall Cr. Rd, Cheryl Huizinger 151. Swainson’s Thrush, May 28, Fall Cr. Rd, Cheryl Huizinger 152. Hermit Thrush, May 29, Fall Cr. Rd, Cheryl Huizinger 153. MacGillivray’s Warbler, May 29, Fall Cr. Rd, Cheryl Huizinger 154. Black-headed Grosbeak, May 28, Black’s Cr. Rd, Cheryl Huizinger 155. Common Poorwill , June 1, Upper Black’s Cr. Rd. John Battalio 156. Yellow-breasted Chat, June 1, Upper Black’s Cr. Rd. John Battalio 157. Common Nighthawk, June 3, Upper Black’s Cr. Rd. John Battalio 158. Black-capped Chickadee, June 3, Upper Black’s Cr. Rd. John Battalio 159. Dusky Flycatcher, June 3, Upper Black’s Cr. Rd. John Battalio -- Can't Never Could Do Anything. http://photobucket.com/albums/f218/1950Betty/ Betty, Bob Davenport & Kato Meridian, ID ------------------------------------ To Post a message, send it to: ible AT yahoogroups.com To Unsubscribe, send a blank message to: ible-unsubscribe AT yahoogroups.com To view archived messages go to: http://www.yahoogroups.com/group/ible To view the IBLE Photos archive go to: http://photos.groups.yahoo.com/group/ible/lstYahoo! Groups Links <*> To visit your group on the web, go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ible/ <*> Your email settings: Individual Email | Traditional <*> To change settings online go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ible/join (Yahoo! ID required) <*> To change settings via email: mailto:ible-digest AT yahoogroups.com mailto:ible-fullfeatured AT yahoogroups.com <*> To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to: ible-unsubscribe AT yahoogroups.com <*> Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to: http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/ Subject: Blue-gray Gnatcatcher Boise/Ada County From: "Scott Tuthill" <satuthill AT cableone.net> Date: Fri, 12 Jun 2009 16:53:58 -0000 Noticed Blue-gray Gnatcatcher was missing on the Ada county 2009 list. I remembered seeing them most of the past years off Bogus Basin road when I rode my bicycle up there. So, took a quick run up there this morning, in my car, to see if they were still there. About halfway between mileposts 3 and 4, probably about mile 3.5 through 3.8 are some brush covered hillsides where I have seen them in the past. Within about 2 minutes of getting out of the car I heard one calling above the road. I got a brief view of it in the bush and then it flew right over my head down into the canyon. So they are still in the area if anyone needs the bird for their various lists. Scott Tuthill Subject: Common Nighthawk From: "Lew & Connie Ulrey" <lulrey AT cableone.net> Date: Thu, 11 Jun 2009 19:26:39 -0600 Hello everyone, Just an hour ago a Common Nighthawk was patrolling the skies over our neighborhood. It is so sad that this once common species is now almost a once a year bird for many of us. Lew Ulrey Boise lulrey AT cableone.net Subject: Going crazy at Foote Park From: "lnquintana" <lnquintana AT yahoo.com> Date: Thu, 11 Jun 2009 23:11:37 -0000 Hey, folks... Today I decided to go on the prowl for dinky birds at Foote Park, inspired by the reports of that Chestnut-sided Warbler reported earlier in the week. The only time that I had was from about 12:30 pm to 2:00 pm, not the best time to see stuff, but a much better use of time than using it for work! :-) Actually, I haven’t been able to get out a lot over the past few weeks, so it felt good to be roaming around, looking and listening for what was around the area. My main focus this afternoon was on the listening, which is a huge challenge for me, in that I am very much so a visual learner. (That just means that I need to see the bird as it vocalizesâ€"or have someone say, “Hey, dingle brain, hear that? That’s a _____.” Either technique is helpful!) I was able to get more than my fill of Lazuli Bunting males [ColorĂ­n lazuli, macho], Yellow-breasted Chats [Chipe de pecho amarillo] and Yellow Warblers [Chipe amarillo] (so much so that they were driving me crazy trying to listen through them to hear what else was in the bushes and trees)! I found the spot for the Chestnut-sided Warbler, but didn’t see or hear it. (I will just have to go back early tomorrow morning, eh?) In addition to those already mentioned, I did see/hear the following: Yellow-rumped Warbler [Chipe de rabadilla amarilla] American Goldfinch [Dominico Americano] House Finch, m & f [PinzĂłn mexicano, m y h] Western Tanager, m & f [Tangara de capucha roja, m y h] Black-billed Magpie [Urraca de pico negro] California Quail, m & f [Cordoniz californiana] Osprey [Gavilán pescador] American Robin [Mirlo americano] Western Wood-Peewee [PibĂ­ occidental] Western Kingbird [Tirano de bordes blancos] Cedar Waxwing [Ampelis chinito] Barn Swallow [Golondrina tijereta] Brown-headed Cowbird, m [Vaquero de cabeza cafĂ©, m] By way of advertisement, if anyone is interested in participating in the bird count going on for the South Hills area near Twin Falls this Saturday, the 13th, it’s not too late! You can call Karl at 749-1395â€"warm bodies with birding i.d. skills are needed! As a birthday present to myself, I’m riding down with Harry Krueger on Friday, the 12th, in order to get an early start Saturday morning. (I wonder what a self-declared curmudgeon sounds like singing "Happy Birthday!"...I guess that I will find out! I had better bring the ear plugs…) Louie Quintana Kuna, ID lnquintana AT yahoo.com Subject: Spring Valley Creek - Avimor - Ada Co. From: "Robert" <robert.mortensen AT suncorid.com> Date: Thu, 11 Jun 2009 16:12:09 -0000 This morning I observed a Yellow-breasted Chat with an all white crown. I thought it might have been a white-wash poop stain, but upon a closer look it was indeed white feathers on the crown. Just a mutation or is it something else? A couple IBLE folks e-mailed me about photographing Lazuli Buntings. A few buntings have returned to the main Spring Valley Creek, but I have found greater numbers of them and very consistently up in the draws, about a five minute easy hike. I'd be happy to take you to them. The crop of wild currants is very abundant this year and the birds are really enjoying them. We have many Cedar Waxwings munching away. Among a variety of birding activities this weekend, you are all invited to our monthly bird walk this Saturday. A hike at 7am and a leisurely stroll on paved trails at 9am. Avimor is located 2.5 miles north of Shadow Valley Golf Course on Highway 55. Happy Birding! - Robert Mortensen Avimor Birding Blog - robert.mortensen AT suncorid.com - 208-939-0343 ext 206 Subject: Sapsucker ID Challenge posted to BirdFellow.com From: David Irons <davidirons20 AT yahoo.com> Date: Thu, 11 Jun 2009 00:26:10 -0700 (PDT) Greetings All, I just posted a bit of sapsucker ID challenge to the www.birdfellow.com online journal.  I encourage you to check it out and offer your comments via our comments box. Good birding, Dave Irons Content Editor BirdFellow.com Subject: Great Gray Owl [1 Attachment] From: "Cheryl Huizinga" <bchuizinga AT cableone.net> Date: Wed, 10 Jun 2009 20:28:27 -0600 Hi Birders, While cruising down Hwy 55 today between Round Valley and Cascade, sharp-eyed Dave Hazelton spied this Great Gray Owl on a fence post. It was just across from the Herrick Hills subdivision sign. Nice to be out with a birder that can drive and spot birds at the same time! Goes to show that birds can show up about anywhere, even along a busy highway. Cheryl Huizinga, Caldwell Subject: YB Cuckoo & Least Flycatchers in far SW Blaine Co. From: "carlislejay" <carlislejay AT yahoo.com> Date: Wed, 10 Jun 2009 23:51:10 -0000 Today during standardized bird surveys for the BLM, Heidi and I observed a Yellow-billed Cuckoo and 3 singing Least Flycatchers in some cottonwood-willow riparian habitat along the Big Wood River S of Magic Reservoir. Only my second ever YB Cuckoo in Idaho! I was even able to get a couple decent pics of the cuckoo (to be posted to the blog by this weekend). I'll add that there was a great mix of riparian-associated species here, including YB Chats, Gray Catbirds, and Lewis's Woodpeckers so it would be a worthwhile stop while passing through. Directions: follow hwy 75 N from Shoshone and continue N past the turn-off for the Shoshone Ice Cave. In a little less than 2 miles, turn left onto West Magic Rd and follow it NW for 1.2 miles. The flycatchers & the cuckoo were observed between 1.2 and 1.4 miles from hwy 75 in the riparian vegetation to the right (N & E) of the road. There's not a lot of room to pull over here so be careful. Also, if you do go searching for these birds, I'd suggest NOT USING RECORDINGS (PLAYBACK) for the cuckoo so as to minimize disturbance to the bird(s) as the cuckoo is a state-listed species (i.e., imagine if in the next couple weeks, 20+ birders all went out there with tapes/cds). And, this area lies in a mosaic of public & private land so keep that in mind before you go walking around in search of the birds. Cheers, Jay Subject: probable Caspian Tern [2 Attachments] From: Art Robertson <artrob99 AT cableone.net> Date: Wed, 10 Jun 2009 15:05:34 -0600 Hi all walking along Boise greenbelt in Eagle near Merrill park I spotted these two birds skimming and diving on a small pond -at least one fish was seen caught They look like Caspian terns to me based mainly on the size and color of the bill and black cap , if so a life/year bird for me I note that this species was noted as first seen in Ada county this year 4 days ago - perhaps this strange recent weather blew them in from california I saw what is likely the same bird resting on another close-by pond a few days ago but the pictures were not good enough for positive identification- they do seem to be hanging around attached I hope are two pics , one being harassed by a red wing blackbird for size reference does not show the bill It seems that the site has a new mechanism for attachments I hope this works Art Robertson Boise Subject: Southwestern Idaho Birders Association, 6/13/2009, 12:00 am From: ible AT yahoogroups.com Date: 10 Jun 2009 05:59:09 -0000 Reminder from: ible Yahoo! Group http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ible/cal Southwestern Idaho Birders Association Saturday June 13, 2009 All Day Location: Daggett Creek Notes: Southwestern Idaho Birders Association field trip along Daggett Cr. Meet at Daggett Creek bridge off Hwy 21 near MP 24 at 8AM. This is a full day trip. Wear walking shoes and bring water and lunch. We will picnic on the Larson's front lawn. Trip leader Al Larson, 343-0959 All Rights Reserved Copyright © 2009 Yahoo! Inc. http://www.yahoo.com Privacy Policy: http://privacy.yahoo.com/privacy/us Terms of Service: http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/ Subject: 2009 Ada County Big Year List From: "Lew & Connie Ulrey" <lulrey AT cableone.net> Date: Tue, 9 Jun 2009 21:36:42 -0600 Hello everyone, Here are the latest additions to the 2009 Ada County Big Year List: #200 Western Sandpiper, 4/30, Blacks Creek Reservoir, RL Rowland #201 Pectoral Sandpiper, 5/22, Blacks Creek Reservoir, RL Rowland and Bob Cirillo and Cheryl Huizinga #202 Common Grackle, 6/7, Timberline High School grounds, Mark Collie #203 Chestnut-sided Warbler, 6/7, Foote Park, Bruce Ackerman (viewed later the same day by John Battalio) Lew Ulrey Boise lulrey AT cableone.net Subject: RE: [swiba] Attn: SIBA Daggertt Creek Field Trip on June 13 From: alfred larson <larson83703 AT msn.com> Date: Tue, 9 Jun 2009 13:29:09 -0600 The sign says, “Northbound lanes closed 6/13/09 12pm to 4pm.” Southbound, going from Daggett Creek to Boise, the Highway should not be closed. Hope to see you Saturday at the ranch. Al Larson 160 Daggett Creek Road Boise, ID 83716 larson83703 AT msn.com allarsonphotography.com To: swiba AT yahoogroups.com; ible AT yahoogroups.com From: bchuizinga AT cableone.net Date: Tue, 9 Jun 2009 06:52:36 -0600 Subject: [swiba] Attn: SIBA Daggertt Creek Field Trip on June 13 SIBA Daggett Cr. Field Trip on Saturday, June 13. Bruce Ackerman let me know about the travel concerns on Hwy 21 going and coming to Daggett Cr. on Sat. Shouldn't really be a problem going up, but possible delay coming home. Don't let that keep you home, but be ready for delays if want to come back between 2-4. Thanks to Bruce for giving us a Heads Up on this. Cheryl Huizinga, SIBA Field Trip Leader ----- Original Message ----- From: Ackerman,Bruce To: Cheryl Huizinga Sent: Monday, June 08, 2009 12:21 PM Subject: ROAD PROBLEMS Sat 6/13/09 Ironman near Lucky Peak Dam Iron man triathalon, near Lucky Peak Dam Might impact returning from Al Larson’s Daggett Creek trip, between 2pm and 4pm Signs on road now say “Northbound lanes closed 6/13/09 12pm to 4pm” OK, I just read the actual schedule on their web site http://www.ironmanboise.com/index.php 11 am buses go up to Lucky Peak Dam (probably traffic jam of participants and observers) Race starts 2pm, swim course on Lucky Peak Reservoir (1.2 miles) Then Bike (56 miles) from there down 21 towards Airport, Gowen Rd, Pleasant Valley Road, to World Center for Birds of Prey, back to Downtown Boise on Federal Way (I assume they are closing the north-bound lanes, for the bikers coming downhill, And letting cars pass in alternating groups on the other side of the highway Then half marathon run (13.1 miles) along Greenbelt, two laps, from downtown west to Americana, then east towards F+G office, back to downtown, Some runners finish around 6pm Something to be aware of – But does NOT seem to preclude going there. Might slow you up coming back to city later in day, between 2pm and 4pm. Bruce B. Ackerman Subject: Attn: SIBA Daggertt Creek Field Trip on June 13 From: "Cheryl Huizinga" <bchuizinga AT cableone.net> Date: Tue, 9 Jun 2009 06:52:36 -0600 SIBA Daggett Cr. Field Trip on Saturday, June 13. Bruce Ackerman let me know about the travel concerns on Hwy 21 going and coming to Daggett Cr. on Sat. Shouldn't really be a problem going up, but possible delay coming home. Don't let that keep you home, but be ready for delays if want to come back between 2-4. Thanks to Bruce for giving us a Heads Up on this. Cheryl Huizinga, SIBA Field Trip Leader ----- Original Message ----- From: Ackerman,Bruce To: Cheryl Huizinga Sent: Monday, June 08, 2009 12:21 PM Subject: ROAD PROBLEMS Sat 6/13/09 Ironman near Lucky Peak Dam Iron man triathalon, near Lucky Peak Dam Might impact returning from Al Larson's Daggett Creek trip, between 2pm and 4pm Signs on road now say "Northbound lanes closed 6/13/09 12pm to 4pm" OK, I just read the actual schedule on their web site http://www.ironmanboise.com/index.php 11 am buses go up to Lucky Peak Dam (probably traffic jam of participants and observers) Race starts 2pm, swim course on Lucky Peak Reservoir (1.2 miles) Then Bike (56 miles) from there down 21 towards Airport, Gowen Rd, Pleasant Valley Road, to World Center for Birds of Prey, back to Downtown Boise on Federal Way (I assume they are closing the north-bound lanes, for the bikers coming downhill, And letting cars pass in alternating groups on the other side of the highway Then half marathon run (13.1 miles) along Greenbelt, two laps, from downtown west to Americana, then east towards F+G office, back to downtown, Some runners finish around 6pm Something to be aware of - But does NOT seem to preclude going there. Might slow you up coming back to city later in day, between 2pm and 4pm. Bruce B. Ackerman Subject: Southwestern Idaho Birders Association, 6/11/2009, 7:00 pm From: ible AT yahoogroups.com Date: 9 Jun 2009 00:56:27 -0000 Reminder from: ible Yahoo! Group http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ible/cal Southwestern Idaho Birders Association Thursday June 11, 2009 7:00 pm - 8:45 pm Location: Visitor Center, Deer Flat NWR, Lake Lowell, Nampa, ID Notes: Regular monthly meeting. This months featured speaker is Bruce Haak, Idaho Fish & Game Wildlife Biologist. Bruce has studied the Merlin for the past three years and will share his knowledge of this falcon. He will talk about its distribution and behavior. All Rights Reserved Copyright © 2009 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: Chestnut-sided warbler, Boise 6/7/09 From: "John Battalio" <jbattalio AT hotmail.com> Date: Mon, 08 Jun 2009 04:31:22 -0000 It was still there this evening (Sunday) and still singing at about 7:40pm, not quite as far up the trail as Bruce's blue glove, but still on the right (slope) side in the bushes along the path after you pass through the trees. It was easily seen, very cooperative. Probably a good chance it will still be around there tomorrow morning. John Battalio Boise --- In ible AT yahoogroups.com, "ackerman_bruce" wrote: > > I saw a chestnut-sided warbler in east Boise, Sunday 6/7/09, about 1:20pm, at Foote Park. Singing male, distinct with greenish-yellow cap and brown side stripes. I have never seen one in the west, but am familiar with them in the east. Seems off track from eastern migration, but the exact spot that I saw it is pretty typical habitat, big deciduous shrubs. > Foote Park is off the beaten path, near Lucky Peak Dam, east of Boise. Go up Hghwy 21, north past Discover Park, right across top of Lucky Peak Dam, to right down gravel road to the south. Walk up the trail. Bird was seen at top of trail at Foote Park, where you get out of the trees. I put a piece of a blue surgical glove on a bush at the site, about 200 yards up the trail. After the past 4 rainy days, today was cool and damp, but clear sky. Hopefully someone will see it tomorrow to confirm. Earlier in the morning would probably be better. Take an tape/ipod with eastern songs. > Subject: RE: fledgling nuthatch in Boise From: Michael Wiegand <onwingsof_Pearl AT Hotmail.com> Date: Sun, 7 Jun 2009 21:58:26 -0600 yes Heidi, those nuthatches not only overwintered in your area (Foothills East) but bred...both parents came to our job site, just above your home, and bathed in a newly installed drip equipped xersicape we installed last week on Ridgecrest Drive! Foothills East is a mature neighborhood with lots of conifers and hip home owners providing the basics of the National Wildlife Fereration's Backyard Wildlife Habitat certification program...native plants, water, nesting sites, food and cover...all provided by the homeowner or landscapers doing the right thing! 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: heidithebirdnerd AT yahoo.com Date: Sat, 6 Jun 2009 15:03:20 -0700 Subject: [IBLE] fledgling nuthatch in Boise Hi Iblers! Last night on my deck railing, my family and I discovered a little fledgling Red-breasted Nuthatch! Beside the fact that he was the cutest little thing I'd ever seen, I was interested in the fact that nuthatches were breeding in my neighborhood, since I live in the east Boise foothills. I've heard that this year was possibly an irruption year for these guys (I had 5 over winter here this year, and had only seen 3-4 in my yard ever before that) so I was wondering if anyone had any more details or info about this? do they expand the areas in which they breed in these irruption years? Has anyone else noticed breeding RB nuthatches in unexpected places this year? thanks! ~Heidi Subject: Re: Craters this week From: "Mike Munts" <mmunts AT atcnet.net> Date: Sun, 7 Jun 2009 20:51:26 -0600 Since Yahoo Groups graphics covered the top of the table I pasted in the previous message. The 5 counties listed were left to right; Blaine, Butte, Minidoka, Lincoln, and Power. Mike ----- Original Message ----- From: Mike Munts To: ible AT yahoogroups.com Sent: Saturday, June 06, 2009 3:09 PM Subject: [IBLE] Craters this week I spent much of this week doing backcountry bird surveys. So I was able to at least briefly pass through each of the 5 counties the Craters of the Moon overlaps. I came up with following list. Once again I have included counties for those interested. Most noteworthy observations were 2 different Ash-throated Flycatchers. This doubles the number of records I have for the species at Craters. Mike Arco 5B 10B 2M 4L 2P Canada Goose X Gadwall X Mallard X Cinnamon Teal X Northern Shoveler X Canvasback X Redhead X Lesser Scaup X Ring-necked Duck X Pied-billed Grebe X Great Blue Heron X Turkey Vulture X X X X Northern Harrier X X X X X Swainson's Hawk X X Ferruginous Hawk X Red-tailed Hawk X X American Kestrel X X Prairie Falcon X X X X American Coot X Killdeer X X Long-billed Curlew X X Ring-billed Gull X California Gull X Rock Pigeon X Mourning Dove X X X X X Great Horned Owl X X X Burrowing Owl X Common Nighthawk X X Black-chinned Hummingbird X Downy Woodpecker X Northern (Red-shafted) Flicker X X X Cordilleran Flycatcher X Dusky Flycatcher X Say's Phoebe X X Ash-throated Flycatcher X Eastern Kingbird X Western Kingbird X X Loggerhead Shrike X X X X Clark's Nutcracker X Black-billed magpie X X X American Crow X Common raven X X X X Horned Lark X X X X X Tree Swallow X Violet-green Swallow X X X X Barn Swallow X X X Black-capped Chickadee X Mountain Chickadee X Red-breasted Nuthatch X White-breasted Nuthatch X Rock Wren X X X X X House Wren X Marsh Wren X Ruby-crowned Kinglet X X Blue-gray Gnatcatcher X X Mountain Bluebird X X Swainson's Thrush X American Robin X X X Gray Catbird X Sage Thrasher X X X European Starling X Cedar Waxwing X Orange-crowned Warbler X X Yellow Warbler X X X Yellow-rumped (Audubon's) Warbler X MacGillivray's Warbler X Wilson's Warbler X Western Tanager X X X Green-tailed Towhee X Spotted Towhee X X Chipping Sparrow X X X Brewer's Sparrow X X X X X Vesper Sparrow X X Lark Sparrow X X X X X Grasshopper Sparrow X Song Sparrow X X Black-headed Grosbeak X X Lazuli Bunting X Red-winged Blackbird X Yellow-headed Blackbird X Western Meadowlark X X X X X Brewer's Blackbird X X X X Brown-headed Cowbird X X X X Bullock's Oriole X X X Cassin's Finch X House Finch X Pine Siskin X Subject: Dry Lake, From: "Darrell Marks" <dlmarks AT nnu.edu> Date: Sun, 07 Jun 2009 20:29:40 -0600 Visited Dry Lake area on Saturday evening, 6/6/09. This includes Dry Lake and 6 to 8 irrigation ponds within a mile radius of the lake. I saw 4 pair of Blue-winged Teal, 3 at Dry Lake and one pair on a pond. There were a total of 11 pair of Cinnamon Teal. A few pair of Cinnamon Teal successfully nest in the area but this is the highest number of Blue-winged Teal that I have seen at one time in this area. Therev were 3 Bonaparte's Gulls on Dry Lake.There were 2 Wilson Phalaropes, 6 Black-necked Stilts and 4 Avovets on the ponds. There was the usual Mallards, Coots, Redheads, Gadwalls, Shovelers, Lesser Scuap, Yellow-headed Blackbirds,and Killdeer. Darrell Marks, Nampa Subject: Chestnut-sided warbler, Boise 6/7/09 From: "ackerman_bruce" <backerman AT idfg.idaho.gov> Date: Sun, 07 Jun 2009 21:13:51 -0000 I saw a chestnut-sided warbler in east Boise, Sunday 6/7/09, about 1:20pm, at Foote Park. Singing male, distinct with greenish-yellow cap and brown side stripes. I have never seen one in the west, but am familiar with them in the east. Seems off track from eastern migration, but the exact spot that I saw it is pretty typical habitat, big deciduous shrubs. Foote Park is off the beaten path, near Lucky Peak Dam, east of Boise. Go up Hghwy 21, north past Discover Park, right across top of Lucky Peak Dam, to right down gravel road to the south. Walk up the trail. Bird was seen at top of trail at Foote Park, where you get out of the trees. I put a piece of a blue surgical glove on a bush at the site, about 200 yards up the trail. After the past 4 rainy days, today was cool and damp, but clear sky. Hopefully someone will see it tomorrow to confirm. Earlier in the morning would probably be better. Take an tape/ipod with eastern songs. Subject: bobolinks? From: "Jesse DeVoe" <sidewinder_4 AT hotmail.com> Date: Sun, 07 Jun 2009 14:28:40 -0000 Hello Iblers, I am curious if anyone knows of where there might be some bobolinks in Valley County? I've been seeking these guys out for several years now and still have never seen one. Thanks, Jesse