On Thu, Jun 11, 2026, 11:04 AM Hondochica z <hondochica...> wrote:
> Thanks to Merlin I found a Hooded Warbler this morning in Teller County.
> Had a great look. Might go back for a photo. Male singing. Butterbutts
> chasing him around.
>
> Found in the riparian habitat at 304 Kingston rd; was closer to the
> driveway gate than the road junction; off Lower Twin Rocks road between
> Divide and Teller 1.
>
> Do Not Trespass: the property owner has cameras.
>
> Good luck!
>
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Thanks to Merlin I found a Hooded Warbler this morning in Teller County. Had a great look. Might go back for a photo. Male singing. Butterbutts chasing him around.
Found in the riparian habitat at 304 Kingston rd; was closer to the driveway gate than the road junction; off Lower Twin Rocks road between Divide and Teller 1.
Do Not Trespass: the property owner has cameras.
Good luck!
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Date: 6/10/26 10:00 am From: David Suddjian <dsuddjian...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] Need identification help for bird seen on Manitou Lake near Deckers
Hi,
That is not a duck, but a shorebird - an American Avocet. Probably only
infrequently found at that location, so a nice find.
David Suddjian
Littleton, CO
On Wed, Jun 10, 2026 at 10:58 AM Amanda Dodson <amandaksdodson...>
wrote:
> I saw a duck I'd never seen before on Manitou Lake yesterday. It was
> smaller, maybe crow sized. Black and white wings with an orangey-tan wash
> over the head. Its eye ring and the skin around its bill was nearly pale
> blue in hue. Its beak was dark and very long, like a snipe.
>
> I never observed it diving or feeding, though I did see it do quick bobs
> of its head often. There was only one.
>
> Any ideas? Merlin came up with no matches, and I haven't been able to find
> anything in the CO field guides. The snipe has a similar beak but the
> markings and coloring are quite different.
>
> Apologies for the bad cell phone photo.
>
> [image: 1000012459.jpg]
> [image: 1000012460.jpg]
>
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Date: 6/10/26 9:58 am From: Amanda Dodson <amandaksdodson...> Subject: [cobirds] Need identification help for bird seen on Manitou Lake near Deckers
I saw a duck I'd never seen before on Manitou Lake yesterday. It was smaller, maybe crow sized. Black and white wings with an orangey-tan wash over the head. Its eye ring and the skin around its bill was nearly pale blue in hue. Its beak was dark and very long, like a snipe.
I never observed it diving or feeding, though I did see it do quick bobs of its head often. There was only one.
Any ideas? Merlin came up with no matches, and I haven't been able to find anything in the CO field guides. The snipe has a similar beak but the markings and coloring are quite different.
Apologies for the bad cell phone photo.
[image: 1000012459.jpg] [image: 1000012460.jpg]
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Date: 6/10/26 9:12 am From: John Rawinski <johnrawinski0...> Subject: [cobirds] Chama Basin Hotspot
I am proposing the Chama Basin Trailhead as a birding hotspot. It is in Archuleta County and It is a fantastic place for Swainsons Thrush, Fox Sparrow, Lincolns Sparrow, Dipper and Sora. It is on Rio GRande National Forest lands so camping permitted in dispersed campsites. Yesterday it even produced a rare to these parts White-eyed Vireo. San Luis Valley only has 6 observations of the white-eyed vireo so far as I know. Check it out sometime. My friend Jake and I ended the morning with 37 species. Fully exciting morning.
John Rawinski Monte Vista, CO
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Date: 6/9/26 3:25 pm From: Pauli Driver-Smith <hollyhockfarms...> Subject: [cobirds] Fw: Ospreys and cliff swallows
It is mid June now and the ospreys are still working on building their nest. At times, the female is actually in the nest like she is sitting on eggs, but I don't think she actually is.
Cliff swallows have taken over the underside of the pier at Highland Lake. I have no idea how many there are, but it looks to be well over 100 maybe more. This is the first time I've been able to see Cliff swallow Nests Up this close. Looks like our mosquito population is going to take a hit this year. I do have a few barn swallows in my outbuildings, But not in the numbers, I'm used to seeing.
Pauli Smith
Highlandlake/Mead, Weld County
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Date: 6/7/26 3:51 pm From: Jim Esten <jcesten...> Subject: [cobirds] White-winged Dove
Just saw it in my backyard feeder in Denver at Arkansas and Steele. Jim Esten, Denver, CO [image: White-winged Dove_00126.jpg]
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Date: 6/7/26 12:19 pm From: Paula Hansley <plhansley...> Subject: [cobirds] Pine Siskins, Red Crossbills…and Bill Kaempfer, Boulder County
Birders,
This is a great time of year to look at birds, flowers, and butterflies
along the Meyers Homestead Trail in Walker Ranch Open Space; however, my
best sighting early this morning was of Bill Kaempfer! Those of you who
are old timers, like me, will remember Bill— one of the best birders
Colorado has ever seen. Bill now resides in Florida.
Bill says “hello” to everyone. Unfortunately, we (Todd Deininger, John
Vanderpoel, and I) were unable to find a Hammond’s Flycatcher for Bill
along the trail. Perhaps, he found one elsewhere.
This area is as dry as I’ve ever seen it with very few flowers or
butterflies. I was happy to find a flock of Pine Siskins and a flock of
Red Crossbills ( not sure if type, but I will include a recording with my
checklist).
Paula Hansley
Louisville
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Date: 6/7/26 9:33 am From: Luke Pheneger <phenegerluke...> Subject: [cobirds] The year of the Kentucky Warbler
Hi all,
Did you find yourself noticing Kentucky Warblers on Colorado rare bird
alerts more often this spring? Compared to most years, the species seems to
have had a remarkable showing statewide. This spring migration, there were
9(!) Kentucky Warblers found in 8 different counties, with 3 representing
first county records.
I made a list of the total number of observations for every warbler species
(and vireo) recorded in Colorado (see the bottom of this post). This is
just a quick list of total eBird observations which does not count for
inflated numbers and how easily chase-able certain records may have been.
However; its impreciseness still provides a useful way to group species
into broad rarity “tiers.” As you can see, Kentucky Warbler currently sits
near the bottom of the list and is one of the rarest eastern warblers
recorded in the state, numerically falling between Louisiana Waterthrush
and Prairie Warbler. This year however, there have been more individual
Kentucky Warblers in the state than Bay-Breasted, Blue-Winged, and
Worm-Eating Combined. In fact, Colorado did not have a single confirmed
Kentucky Warbler sighting in all of 2024 and 2025, and between 2020 and
2023 Colorado only had 9 total confirmed sightings.
This post is mainly to cast light on this event and is not meant to be
investigative, but I will point out that this was not a particularly
eventful spring migration for some other South Eastern United States
breeding warblers such as Hooded (Brandon Percival exemption), Worm Eating,
Prothonotary, and Prairie. This however, was an extraordinary year for
Northern Parula, Louisiana Waterthrush, and White Eyed Vireo, so I’d go out
on a limb to suspect there is some connection on that end. The number of
observations of Louisiana Waterthrush is particularly over inflated due to
two individuals being very easily chaseable within two heavily populated
areas, but three in one year in our state is still exceptional.
I didn’t conduct any formal statistical analysis to determine whether these
other warblers had a particularly good or bad migration this year. I’m
mostly going off my own field experience and nightly scans of the rare bird
alert, so I am excited to hear about the field experiences from other
birders. Personally, I was lucky enough to see three Kentucky Warblers this
spring, one of which was thanks to Dan Z and Leslie S in Boulder County. I
had seen 2 total in Colorado before that.
Whatever the reason for this year’s influx, it was certainly fun, and I’m
grateful to have gotten to bear witness to a fraction of it. Moments like
this are a reminder that no matter how long you’ve been birding, migration
is still full of surprises.
Number of ebird Observations in Colorado:
Warblers:
Yellow-rumped Warbler — 196,600
Yellow Warbler — 190,000
Wilson’s Warbler — 67,900
Common Yellowthroat: 56,300
Orange Crowned Warbler-48,500
Macgilivrays Warbler- 31,800
Virginia’s Warbler — 25,000
Townsends Warbler: 8341
Black-throated Gray Warbler — 8436
American Redstart — 6657
Northern Waterthrush — 5578
Ovenbird — 4807
Northern Parula — 3175
Grace’s Warbler — 2776
Nashville Warbler — 2511
Black-and-white Warbler — 2,085
Blackpoll Warbler — 1800
Chestnut-sided Warbler — 1613
Tennessee Warbler — 1451
Hooded Warbler — 1373
Palm Warbler: 1231
Black-throated Blue Warbler — 1163
Magnolia Warbler — 1004
Yellow-throated Warbler — 969
Pine Warbler- 885
Lucy’s Warbler- 693
Blue Winged Warbler- 486
Golden Winged Warbler- 476
Blackburnian Warbler — 428
Black-throated Green Warbler — 420
Cape May Warbler: 404
Bay-breasted Warbler — 403
Worm-eating Warbler — 334
Mourning Warbler — 318
Prairie Warbler: 301
Kentucky Warbler — 291
Louisiana Waterthrush — 267
Canada Warbler — 203
Hermit Warbler — 101
Golden-crowned Warbler — 92
Painted Redstart: 73
Swainson’s Warbler — 28
Connecticut Warbler: 26
Tropical Parula — 14
Cerulean Warbler — 7
Red-faced Warbler — 5
Vireos
Western Warbling Vireo — 65,500
Plumbeous Vireo — 32,200
Red Eyed Vireo: 4,678
Cassin’s Vireo — 3,239
Gray Vireo-3018
Eastern Warbling Vireo — 2,360
Bell’s Vireo- 1042
White-eyed Vireo — 889
Yellow-throated Vireo — 720
Philadelphia Vireo — 364
Blue-headed Vireo — 265
Yellow-green Vireo — 1
Photo by Brian Genge:
Kentucky Warbler in Lincoln County
Good birding,
Luke Pheneger
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Date: 6/6/26 10:57 am From: Chicobander <jshieldcastle...> Subject: [cobirds] Chico Basin Ranch Banding Report, June 6, 2026-Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
Last Day of spring banding at Chico Basin Ranch! Sad day to be ending but the birds said we are pretty much done migrating and taking up our breeding responsibilities. We will return in late August to catch the birds on their southern trip to the wintering grounds.
*10 New Banded Birds* Swainson's Thrush- 1 House Finch- 2 Ladder-backed woodpecker-1 Orchard Oriole- 1 Blue Grosbeak- 1 Bullock's Oriole- 1 Northern Mockingbird- 2 American Robin- 1
*1 Recapture* Yellow Warbler
Hope t see you all in the fall. Thanks again to the many volunteers who helped with the project. Thanks to Flying Diamond for their hospitality and patience when birders got lost on the ranch... We hope to have better signage to lessen folks getting lost.
Have a good summer!
Julie Shieldcastle Bander, Chico Basin Ranch Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
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Date: 6/6/26 5:37 am From: David Suddjian <dsuddjian...> Subject: [cobirds] Laughing Gull at Russell Lakes SWA, Saguache County on June 5
An alternate-plumaged adult Laughing Gull was at Johnson Lake in Russell Lakes SWA, Saguache County last evening. It was with a small party of Franklin's Gulls, flying around and resting on the lake. It is missing one or two inner primaries on the left wing. Johnson is the lake east of the parking lot located along Hwy 285. eBird has three prior records in the San Luis Valley: Sept 2012, May 2016, and Sept 2022 - all single day reports.
David Suddjian Littleton, CO
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Date: 6/5/26 12:33 pm From: 'Dan Stringer' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Kite Behavior Otero County
On April 2nd Michael Kiessig I and were observing Black Terns at Holbrook
Reservoir, when he found a Mississippi Kite over the water, foraging in the
same manner as the terns. Cruising low and catching tiny insects, moving
fast, kind of erratic yet graceful…like a Black Tern (which I see feeding
on small insects much more often than small fish). It even appeared able to
skim the surface, once dipping a wingtip in the water as it turned sideways
and shot back up in the air.
This was the first time I’d seen a kite working so low. In my previous
observations of them feeding, they were soaring and gliding fairly high to
very high, where their food source was.
This day was light rain, misty all morning, a bit of fog. It made me wonder
if those weather conditions simply prevented the small bugs from being
higher in the air, instead almost at ground level / water level. Or if the
preferred hatch of the moment was an aquatic insect that emerges and never
goes up very far in the air.
This one-off, low-down sighting was a bit surprising to me, and very fun to
watch.
Dan Stringer
Larkspur, CO
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Date: 6/5/26 11:52 am From: Chicobander <jshieldcastle...> Subject: [cobirds] Chico Basin Ranch Banding Report, June 5, 2026-Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
A straggler Swainson's Thrush appeared in the net this morning. The other birds we caught today were breeding birds. We did catch a couple returning Yellow Warblers and Northern House Wren. Might as well gather some info on the breeding birds if I am here. *7 New Banded Birds* Western Wood-Pewee- 1 Swainson's Thrush- 1 Lark Sparrow- 1 Bullock's Oriole- 3 American Robin- 1
*3 Returning birds banded another season* Northern House Wren- At least 4 years old- banded as an adult last spring Yellow Warbler- 2- male and female- banded last spring as second-year birds= each 3 years old
Thanks again to all the volunteers who made this season operate smoothly. Thanks also to the fellow birders who shared information about birds and their natural history. Tomorrow is the last day of spring banding. The Aiken Audubon Site says there is a waiting list for anyone to visit the ranch tomorrow. Guess someone thinks it is going to be a big bird day! Or just want to visit the last day before fall season. :)
Have a good day and all the best for a good summer!
Julie Shieldcastle Bander, Chico Basin Ranch Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
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Date: 6/5/26 11:31 am From: 'Joey Kellner' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Cactus Wren location is Private Property
Just a quick note to remind birders to stay on the county roads in Otero and Las Animas counties near the current location of the Cactus Wren. As soon as birders get off of Hwy 109 onto Otero County Road E there are signs about the area being private property. PLEASE stay on the roads when you are birding the area (driving, walking, etc.). We don't want issues with land owners, ranch managers and county sheriffs.
Thank you, considerate birders! :-)
Joey.
Joey Kellner Littleton, Colorado
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Date: 6/4/26 4:56 pm From: Chris H <chobbs.f1...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] Chestnut Sided Warbler Costilla
Female, I presume?
Chris Hobbs
Lenexa KS
<chobbs.f1...>
Sent from my Verizon, Samsung Galaxy smartphone
Get Outlook for Android<https://aka.ms/AAb9ysg> ________________________________
From: <cobirds...> <cobirds...> on behalf of Luke Pheneger <phenegerluke...>
Sent: Thursday, June 4, 2026 5:42:46 PM
To: Colorado Birds <Cobirds...>
Subject: [cobirds] Chestnut Sided Warbler Costilla
Hi all,
Yesterday, Jeff, Jeina Livingston, and I had a Chestnut-sided Warbler at Rito Seco Park in Costilla County. The exact pin was here (37.2533571, -105.3312214). This is a first eBird record for the county. I looked for the bird a bit this morning but could not refind it. That said, I think the area is well worth additional coverage, both for the Chestnut-sided Warbler and other late migrants. The site could be somewhat of a “breeder trap”, with a dense willowy oasis bordering a diverse conifer forest.
Also present at the park was a calling Swainson’s Thrush, which represented just the fourth eBird record for the county. Costilla gets very little eBird coverage away from Smith Reservoir, so species that breed locally but aren’t common in the valley are often underrepresented there. For example, last year Sean Huntley, Archer Silverman, and I had Flammulated Owl, Northern Saw-whet Owl, Long Eared Owl, and Northern Pygmy-Owl along a single road, all of which had less than 3 eBird records at the time. I bring this up not to brag, but to illustrate just how much of the county remains underbirded. If you’re looking to contribute eBird data to a region of the state that truly lacks coverage, consider exploring Costilla.
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Yesterday, Jeff, Jeina Livingston, and I had a Chestnut-sided Warbler at
Rito Seco Park in Costilla County. The exact pin was here (37.2533571,
-105.3312214). This is a first eBird record for the county. I looked for
the bird a bit this morning but could not refind it. That said, I think the
area is well worth additional coverage, both for the Chestnut-sided Warbler
and other late migrants. The site could be somewhat of a “breeder trap”,
with a dense willowy oasis bordering a diverse conifer forest.
Also present at the park was a calling Swainson’s Thrush, which represented
just the fourth eBird record for the county. Costilla gets very little
eBird coverage away from Smith Reservoir, so species that breed locally but
aren’t common in the valley are often underrepresented there. For example,
last year Sean Huntley, Archer Silverman, and I had Flammulated Owl,
Northern Saw-whet Owl, Long Eared Owl, and Northern Pygmy-Owl along a
single road, all of which had less than 3 eBird records at the time. I
bring this up not to brag, but to illustrate just how much of the county
remains underbirded. If you’re looking to contribute eBird data to a region
of the state that truly lacks coverage, consider exploring Costilla.
Luke Pheneger
Longmont
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Date: 6/4/26 11:59 am From: Chicobander <jshieldcastle...> Subject: [cobirds] Chico Basin Ranch Banding Report, June 4, 2026-Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
It appears that spring migration is pretty much over. There is a few stragglers still around. The Prothonotary Warbler was viewed at Headquarters Willows this morning but was observed flying north around 11 AM. So maybe it will hang out on the ranch or it has better things to do? It was a beautiful morning at the banding station even if there was few birds around. Not even a lot of breeding bird singing happening today. The female Common Yellowthroat was not hanging around. She was a fat bird. She was still in migration mode. *4 New Banded Birds * Common Yellowthroat- 1 American Goldfinch- 1 House Finch- 2 Hatching year birds
*No Recaptures*
The banding station will be open tomorrow and Saturday from sunrise until @ 11AM. Saturday is the last day for the season. MANY THANKS to the volunteers putting in time to assist with the spring season. Thank you very much! If interested in visiting the ranch these next couple days, Please register on the Aiken Audubon Website www.aikenaudubon.com
Have a good day!
Julie Shieldcastle Bander, Chico Basin Ranch Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
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Date: 6/4/26 6:06 am From: Megan Jones Patterson <mtns4meg...> Subject: [cobirds] Contact Info for Mike Carter, CBO founder & early director
Hi. I'm trying to get in contact with Mike Carter, the founder of Colorado Bird Observatory (now Bird Conservancy of the Rockies) regarding collaboration between CBO and banders at the Lykins Gulch/Allegra Collister Nature Preserve banding station in the early 1990s.
If anyone has current contact information for Mike, I would appreciate it if you could pass my message along or let me know how to contact Mike. I was given an @pljv.org email but a message to that email bounced.
If you write me back, please *don't **reply all* to the whole group. I wouldn't want Mike's information shared with everybody on this list.
Thank you, Megan
--- Megan Jones Patterson Boulder County, CO
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Date: 6/3/26 12:12 pm From: Chicobander <jshieldcastle...> Subject: [cobirds] Chico Basin Ranch Banding Report, June 3, 2026-Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
Since it is the tail end of bird migration, I am not expecting any numbers. There has been some migrants still coming through. Northern Parula was singing when putting the nets up today. A Magnolia and Prothonotary Warbler were observed and photographed by birders at Headquarters little pond this morning. The nets are still catching Swainson's Thrushes. What will tomorrow look like? Hopefully, we can reach double digits. *7 New Banded Birds* Western Kingbird- 1 Swainson's Thrush- 2 Orchard Oriole- 1 Bullock's Oriole- 1 Blue Grosbeak- 1 American Robin- 1
*4 Breeding Bird Recaptures* Bullock's Oriole- 3 Blue Grosbeak- 1
The banding station will be open tomorrow through Saturday from sunrise until @ 11AM. Remember if wanting to visit the ranch, please register on the Aiken Audubon website. www.aikenaudubon.com Have a good day,
Julie Shieldcastle Bander, Chico Basin Ranch Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
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Date: 6/2/26 12:05 pm From: Chicobander <jshieldcastle...> Subject: [cobirds] Chico Basin Ranch Banding Report, June 2, 2026-Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
Well, you sure cannot depend on the weather forecast here. This morning was a bit cooler than predicted but we caught more birds than yesterday. A couple new species for the season include: White-eyed Vireo and Curve-billed Thrasher. Not sure what the thrasher was doing near the nets; however, a nice bird to see.
*3 Recaptures-breeding species* American Robin Yellow Warbler Bullock's Oriole
Birds are in full breeding and still a few migrants trickling through. Birder's have observed Ladder-backed Woodpecker, American Robin, House Finch families on the ranch. If wanting to visit the ranch this week, please register online at the Aiken Audubon website www.aikenaudubon.com
The banding station will be open tomorrow through Saturday from sunrise until @ 11AM. Please stop by to share our sightings.
Have a good day,
Julie Shieldcastle Bander, Chico Basin Ranch Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
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Date: 6/2/26 8:10 am From: Evon Holladay <eholladay303...> Subject: [cobirds] Need identification help - from RMNP
We were in Estes Park/RMNP for the big snow storm the week of May 4. We spotted this little one foraging along the road.
Any ideas? It clearly has a black stripe around the neck.
-- EH
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Date: 6/1/26 5:28 pm From: David Suddjian <dsuddjian...> Subject: [cobirds] Inaccessible birding opportunity at Antero Reservoir in Park County
Antero is now closed to general access as it is being de-watered to move the water supply to a downstream reservoir with less evaporation. I viewed it with a scope today from at least two miles away at Buffalo Creek Reservoir. It is perhaps 50% de-watered now, and the South Fork of the South Platte is flooding its banks downstream of the reservoir with the discharge of water. Due to the distance and heat shimmer it was hard to be sure of any IDs except for Am. White Pelicans, apparent cormorants and generic flying gulls (no doubt most or nearly all California Gulls). There were thousands of birds there! Blurry blobs in the scope, and no doubt many little ones I could not discern at all. I estimated about 600-700 pelicans, and maybe 2000 gulls, and lots and lots of other birds, too. There are huge expanses of shallowing water and mud flats, and presumably many fish and other life available for the birds. It would be awesome to get in there to see what is there! I'm wondering if the Snowy Plovers that breed there are able to nest this year with these changes. I hope so. But scads of other birds are reaping the bounty for now.
The rookery at Eleven Mile Reservoir (California Gulls, Am. White Pelicans and Double-crested Cormorants) is going strong. Birds nesting there fly to Spinney Mountain Reservoir and Antero to forage.
David Suddjian Littleton, CO
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Date: 6/1/26 11:59 am From: Chicobander <jshieldcastle...> Subject: [cobirds] Chico Basin Ranch Banding Report, June 1, 2026-Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
Happy June! Migration is winding down; but there are still some flycatchers, Lincoln's Sparrows, and Swainson's Thrushes that are trickling through. All recaptures were breeding birds and maintained or lost a little weight from banding time. Breeding birds will be burning the energy they eat during nesting season.
*12 New Banded Birds* Common Yellowthroat- 1 Western Wood-Pewee- 1 Willow Flycatcher-1 Alder Flycatcher- 1 Northern House Wren- 1 House Finch- 2 Lincoln's Sparrow- 1 Swainson's Thrush- 2 Northern Mockingbird- 1 Bullock's Oriole- 1
*5 Recaptures* Western Wood-pewee- 1 Bullock's Oriole- 4
The Banding Station will be open tomorrow through Saturday from Sunrise until @ 11AM. Please register on the Aiken Audubon website if interested in visiting the ranch. www.aikenaudubon.com
Enjoy the Day,
Julie Shieldcastle Bander, Chico Basin Ranch Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
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Date: 6/1/26 10:56 am From: 'Meredith McBurney' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Chatfield Banding Station, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies 5-31-26
We had nice weather, an interesting mix of birds, and very enthusiastic visitors for our final day of the spring 2026 season.
Among our 17 species (including all birds caught - banded today, banded in some prior year, and banded earlier this season), we got two first of season and relatively rare for us species (Plumbeous Vireo and Black-headed Grosbeak).
We also caught another old Yellow Warbler (banded as an adult male in 2021 and caught every year since). That gives us 3 old Yellows for the season - 2 males that would have hatched in 2019 or before and a female that would have hatched in 2015 or before.
Here's the breakdown of the 17 banded today and the 5 new returns:
Downy Woodpecker 1, banded 2024 Western Wood-pewee 1 Western Flycatcher 1 Plumbeous Vireo 2 Swainson's Thrush 1 Gray Catbird 3 new, 1 banded 2023 Yellow Warbler 4 new, 1 banded 2021 Common Yellowthroat 1 Yellow-breasted Chat 1 new, 1 banded 2024 Song Sparrow 1 new, 1 banded 2025 (these were 2 males in breeding condition, caught at the same time in the same net, and almost chasing each other along the trammel) Lincoln's Sparrow 1 Black-headed Grosbeak 1
Done at Chatfield for spring 2026! Watch for info about banding at Chatfield this fall, as well as fall at Barr Lake (where we will be back at our regular site after two years in a temporary location due to dam repair).
Meredith McBurney Bander, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
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Date: 6/1/26 9:43 am From: Jamie <ironekilz...> Subject: [cobirds] Nick Komar Book Signing and Reading
Front Range Birding & Optics is pleased to host birding rockstar Nick Komar for a reading and signing of his new book The Biggest Year in American Birding: A Quest to Find 900 Birds in the USA and its Territories at both of our stores today, June 1st.
Littleton: 11am to 1pm 10146 W. San Juan Way Unit 110 Call 303-979-2473 to register Boulder: 3pm to 5pm 2425 Canyon Blvd Suite B Call 303-979-2475 to register
-- --Jamie Simo Manager Front Range Birding & Optics
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Date: 5/30/26 5:41 pm From: 'Meredith McBurney' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Chatfield Banding Station, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies 5-30-26
A warm, slow morning for our next to last day of the season. Here are our 12 new birds:
Western Flycatcher 1 Gray Catbird 1 Yellow Warbler 5 American Redstart 1 Wilson's Warbler 2 Cedar Waxwing 2 (the stars of today's show!)
We will take the station down after banding tomorrow!
Meredith McBurney Bander, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
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All spring we have not caught much quantity but we have been fortunate that we have caught some quality birds. Today was no exception and of course the highlight bird decided to be caught the last net check. What a surprise when I saw there was a female Painted Bunting that came out of the net. I was not the person who extracted it so I only saw it when it came out of the transport bag to be banded. I could not believe it but nothing else looks that color green of a female Painted Bunting.
A couple Swainson's Thrushes, Wilson's Warbler, and three female Orchard Orioles were the most identified migrants of the day. The Northern Parula was still singing near the goats this morning as well as the Red-headed Woodpecker came and went a couple times near the banding station during the morning.
*13 New Banded Birds* Wilson's Warbler- 1 American Goldfinch- 1 Lazuli Bunting- 1 Painted Bunting- 1 House Finch- 1 Blue Grosbeak- 1 Orchard Oriole- 3 Ash-throated Flycatcher- 1 Canyon Towhee- 1 Swainson's Thrush- 2
*1 Recapture* Bullock's Oriole
*1 Return- banded as an adult in 2025* Blue Grosbeak- She is at least 4 Years old
The banding station will be closed tomorrow but will reopen Monday at sunrise until @11AM. If wanting to bird/visit the ranch tomorrow or next week, please register on the Aiken Audubon Website www.aikenaudubon.com
Have a good weekend and see you Monday!
Julie Shieldcastle Bander, Chico Basin Ranch Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
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Date: 5/29/26 4:59 pm From: 'Meredith McBurney' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Chatfield Banding Station, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies 5-29-26
Another day when the birds were out and about early and then took a nap as it heated up. Probably our warmest day this season. Only banded 17 birds, but caught another 15 that we had already caught this season, so we had plenty of birds for our visitor groups.
Here are the 17 new:
Western Wood-pewee 3 Western Flycatcher 3 Least Flycatcher 1 Warbling Vireo, Western by measurements 1 Swainson's Thrush 1 Gray Catbird 1 Yellow Warbler 2 American Redstart 1 Common Yellowthroat 1 Wilson's Warbler 2 Lincoln's Sparrow 1
Two more days!
Meredith McBurney Bander, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
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Date: 5/29/26 12:24 pm From: Chicobander <jshieldcastle...> Subject: [cobirds] Chico Basin Ranch Banding Station Report- May 29, 2026-Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
With low cloud cover this morning, the birds seemed not to drop into the woods. I realize it should be more breeding birds than migrants. however, we had not caught many female MacGillivray's and today we still are catching new Bullock's Orioles. Not many birds were banded today but the highlight was a returning Bullock's Oriole male which was banded as an adult male in May 2023. This makes this bird at least 6 years old and still breeding! Bullock's Orioles winter in Mexico and northern Central America. further support for conservation efforts on the breeding grounds as most birds return to their original nesting/hatching area. *12 New Banded Birds* American Redstart- 1 Yellow Warbler- 1 Western Flycatcher- 1 Western Wood-Pewee- 2 Lesser Goldfinch- 1 Bullock's Oriole- 4 Canyon Towhee- 1 Lark Sparrow- 1
*2 Recaptures* Orchard Oriole- 2 males chasing each other and were caught in the net
*1 return* Bullock's Oriole- at least 6 years old.
The banding station will be open tomorrow at sunrise until @ 11 AM. If wanting to bird/visit the ranch, please register on the Aiken Audubon Website www.aikenaudubon.com
Have a good weekend,
Julie Shieldcastle Bander, Chico Basin Ranch Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
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Date: 5/29/26 9:37 am From: John Tumasonis <snakemonev...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] Re: Myers Gulch Tour coming up Saturday
Maggie:
I still need confirmation on whether you and your friends are
coming on this outing. Please reply back. Thanks,
John T
On Fri, May 29, 2026 at 6:49 AM John Tumasonis <snakemonev...> wrote:
> My spelling is bad: it's Meyer's Gulch \ Walker Ranch Trail. (Thanks
> Paula). Note: this is filling up pretty fast. Will need responses to
> individual email, before 8 p.m. Friday.
>
> Happy birding,
> John T
>
> On Thursday, May 28, 2026 at 3:50:32 PM UTC-6 John Tumasonis wrote:
>
>> All:
>> Another free birding and nature tour coming up this *Saturday
>> May 30th, at Myers Gulch County Open Space, west of Boulder. *
>>
>> We will hike a portion of the Myers Gulch Trail to see foothills birds
>> and identify edible, medicinal, and poisonous plants and wildflowers.
>> Expect to see green tailed towhees, vesper sparrows, bluebirds, violet
>> green swallows, raptors, ravens, tanagers, and other mountain birds, as
>> well as butterflies and pollinators. This area is "mammal rich" with
>> coyotes, mule deer, fox, pocket gophers, and the occasional moose and black
>> bear.
>>
>> Limit to 12 people. Do NOT respond to this group email. Rather -
>> response to me directly if you want to be on this tour. I will respond
>> with times and meeting place, and what to expect.
>>
>> Thanks,
>> John T (Tumasonis)
>>
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Date: 5/29/26 8:29 am From: Thomas Johnson <johnsthotrnstn...> Subject: [cobirds] Re: Magnolia Warbler, CSR , El Paso Co, Thursday
I just want to agree with Diane that your posts and your banding have been
great to read about. Candice and Tim Johnson
On Thursday, May 28, 2026 at 2:13:04 PM UTC-6 Steven Brown wrote:
> Hey COBirders,
>
> I, too, tried banding in the drizzle Wednesday at Clear Spring Ranch -
> hoping for some sort of fallout, but it remained pretty quiet - and only 12
> birds were banded.
>
> Today the site was sloppy wet, but there were more birds, both migrants
> and local nesters.
>
> Highlight was a SY M *Magnolia Warbler* - my second this season. Very
> petite, very cute.
>
> Also larger birds were banded today - for a total of 26 today - my best
> day this week. 750 for the season.
>
> Including:
> Blue Grosbeak, 4 (2 Ad M, 1 SY M, 1 Ad F) - BLGR’s just arrived this week.
> W Tanager, Ad F
> Bullock’s Oriole - Ad M
> Swainson’s Thrush, Ad
> Black-headed Grosbeak, Ad F
> Brown Thrasher - SY (second year)
> Lazuli Bunting, Ad F
>
> Western Wood Pewee, 2 Ad, along with two yesterday - they just arrived
> Tuesday!
> MacGillivray’s Warbler 2, SY F’s
> and 3 Yellow Warblers, 1 Ad M, 2 SY F’s.
>
> Friday is my last day at CSR banding…. really. It is getting to be too
> much for my aged knees, so I am letting it go.
> Many thanks to those who shared supportive messages over the last 15
> seasons. It has been way too much fun.
> Last I looked I had banded about 33,000 birds at Clear Spring Ranch since
> 2012. Lotsa Chipping Sparrows!!!
>
> Thanks, and Happy Migration!
>
> Steve Brown
> Colo Spgs
>
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Date: 5/29/26 5:49 am From: John Tumasonis <snakemonev...> Subject: [cobirds] Re: Myers Gulch Tour coming up Saturday
My spelling is bad: it's Meyer's Gulch \ Walker Ranch Trail. (Thanks
Paula). Note: this is filling up pretty fast. Will need responses to
individual email, before 8 p.m. Friday.
Happy birding,
John T
On Thursday, May 28, 2026 at 3:50:32 PM UTC-6 John Tumasonis wrote:
> All:
> Another free birding and nature tour coming up this *Saturday May
> 30th, at Myers Gulch County Open Space, west of Boulder. *
>
> We will hike a portion of the Myers Gulch Trail to see foothills birds and
> identify edible, medicinal, and poisonous plants and wildflowers. Expect
> to see green tailed towhees, vesper sparrows, bluebirds, violet green
> swallows, raptors, ravens, tanagers, and other mountain birds, as well as
> butterflies and pollinators. This area is "mammal rich" with coyotes, mule
> deer, fox, pocket gophers, and the occasional moose and black bear.
>
> Limit to 12 people. Do NOT respond to this group email. Rather -
> response to me directly if you want to be on this tour. I will respond
> with times and meeting place, and what to expect.
>
> Thanks,
> John T (Tumasonis)
>
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Meredith McBurney Bander, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
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Date: 5/28/26 2:50 pm From: John Tumasonis <snakemonev...> Subject: [cobirds] Myers Gulch Tour coming up Saturday
All: Another free birding and nature tour coming up this *Saturday May 30th, at Myers Gulch County Open Space, west of Boulder. *
We will hike a portion of the Myers Gulch Trail to see foothills birds and identify edible, medicinal, and poisonous plants and wildflowers. Expect to see green tailed towhees, vesper sparrows, bluebirds, violet green swallows, raptors, ravens, tanagers, and other mountain birds, as well as butterflies and pollinators. This area is "mammal rich" with coyotes, mule deer, fox, pocket gophers, and the occasional moose and black bear.
Limit to 12 people. Do NOT respond to this group email. Rather - response to me directly if you want to be on this tour. I will respond with times and meeting place, and what to expect.
Thanks, John T (Tumasonis)
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Date: 5/28/26 2:11 pm From: Jared Del Rosso <jared.delrosso...> Subject: [cobirds] Prosaic sightings (Broad-tailed Hummer & Common Nighthawk) - Arapahoe
In my west Centennial yard, male Broad-tailed Hummingbirds have been trilling about, particularly in the early evening, dusky light, around several blooming penstemons (Penstemon eatonii & P. clutei) and just-now-starting-to-bloom Salvia greggii and Scrophularia macrantha ("Red Birds in a Tree"). The lateness of their visits, which extend well past sunset, has surprised me a little. It's fun to watch them around plants, which they seem to much prefer to the feeders in my backyard.
On Tuesday (5/26), I had my first Common Nighthawk sighting. Right on schedule, but it was the nature of the sighting that surprised me: a silent and low bird, barely over the tree line, flew over my home near the end of dusk. Given its low flight, it seemed to emerge out of the neighborhood. More typical at this time of year are the higher migratory flights, with calls, usually a little earlier in the evening.
- Jared Del Rosso Centennial, CO
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Date: 5/28/26 1:13 pm From: Steven Brown <sbrown37...> Subject: [cobirds] Magnolia Warbler, CSR , El Paso Co, Thursday
Hey COBirders,
I, too, tried banding in the drizzle Wednesday at Clear Spring Ranch - hoping for some sort of fallout, but it remained pretty quiet - and only 12 birds were banded.
Today the site was sloppy wet, but there were more birds, both migrants and local nesters.
Highlight was a SY M Magnolia Warbler - my second this season. Very petite, very cute.
Also larger birds were banded today - for a total of 26 today - my best day this week. 750 for the season.
Including:
Blue Grosbeak, 4 (2 Ad M, 1 SY M, 1 Ad F) - BLGR’s just arrived this week.
W Tanager, Ad F
Bullock’s Oriole - Ad M
Swainson’s Thrush, Ad
Black-headed Grosbeak, Ad F
Brown Thrasher - SY (second year)
Lazuli Bunting, Ad F
Western Wood Pewee, 2 Ad, along with two yesterday - they just arrived Tuesday!
MacGillivray’s Warbler 2, SY F’s
and 3 Yellow Warblers, 1 Ad M, 2 SY F’s.
Friday is my last day at CSR banding…. really. It is getting to be too much for my aged knees, so I am letting it go.
Many thanks to those who shared supportive messages over the last 15 seasons. It has been way too much fun.
Last I looked I had banded about 33,000 birds at Clear Spring Ranch since 2012. Lotsa Chipping Sparrows!!!
Thanks, and Happy Migration!
Steve Brown
Colo Spgs
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Date: 5/28/26 12:37 pm From: Chicobander <jshieldcastle...> Subject: [cobirds] Chico Basin Ranch Banding Station Report- May 28, 2026-Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
Yesterday was a drizzly, rainy day for Chico Basin Ranch. Rain was needed and appreciated for the grass and plants to grow. Plants are a necessary part of the ecosystem. Birds need plants. Habitat is so important for everything to exist.
With the low heavy clouds this morning not many birds were dropping into the woods. Once the sun peaked out just before 11AM; birds were chasing each other like crazy. Bullock's Orioles in particular with males chasing males and males chasing females. We did capture a first for the season: a male Ladderback Woodpecker. They occasionally fly low enough to get caught in our nets. Swainson's Thrushes were scarce and one MacGillivray's Warbler was singing around the nets. An adult American Redstart was spotted in the area of the nets. *19 New Banded Birds* MacGillivray's Warbler- 3 Yellow-rumped Warbler (MyrtleXAudubon)- 1 Western Flycatcher- 1 Western Wood-Pewee- 4 Willow Flycatcher- 1 American Goldfinch- 1 Lesser Goldfinch- 2 Lincoln's Sparrow- 2 Swainson's Thrush- 1 Bullock's Oriole-1 Common Grackle- 1 Ladderback Woodpecker- 1
*8 Recaptures* Lazuli Bunting MacGillivray's Warbler Bullock's Oriole- 6 (These birds have lost weight/fat from their original banding because they are expending energy chasing each other and preparing for nesting).
The Banding Station will be open tomorrow through Saturday from Sunrise until @ 11AM. Please register on the Aiken Audubon website if you are interested in birding/visiting the ranch. www.aikenaudubon.com
Enjoy the Day,
Julie Shieldcastle Bander, Chico Basin Ranch Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
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Date: 5/28/26 6:32 am From: Chris Selvig <mrselvig...> Subject: [cobirds] Hooded Warbler, Colorado Springs
I’ve had an adult male Hooded Warbler in Shooks Run Park the last two mornings. He’s been in the riparian growth along the creek to the north of the intersection of Willamette and El Paso, singing actively.
Chris Selvig
Colorado Springs
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Date: 5/27/26 6:20 pm From: 'Meredith McBurney' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Chatfield Banding Station, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies 5-27-26
We had a busy first hour as the birds dashed about before the drizzle started. We were able to open again a couple of hours later but the birds weren't nearly as active. So, a modest but nice day.
Most exciting bird was a Yellow Warbler, historically our most often caught species. Those of you who have visited the station know we pretty carefully track the return of these beautiful birds. Today we caught a female that we had banded as an adult in 2017, so she hatched in 2015 or before. She just joined our longevity hall of fame!
Here's the breakdown of today's 20 new and 3 returns:
Western Wood-pewee 7 Black-capped Chickadee 1, banded 2025 Northern House Wren 1, banded 2023 Swainson's Thrush 1 Gray Catbird 3 Yellow Warbler 6 new, 1 return (see above) Wilson's Warbler 1 Western Tanager 1 Song Sparrow 1
We are banding Tuesday through Sunday (closed Mondays) through May 31, weather permitting. There are opportunities for the public to visit on weekends and early mornings most weekdays. Reservations are required and can be made through the Denver Audubon website <https://www.denveraudubon.org/calendar>. (Many/most sessions are already sold out, so sign up now if you are interested!)
Meredith McBurney Bander, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
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Date: 5/27/26 3:01 pm From: Pauli Driver-Smith <hollyhockfarms...> Subject: [cobirds] Clark's Grebe Weld County
There is a lone Clarks Grebe near the south shore of Highland Lake, across from my house this afternoon. I haven't seen one in years. We always see the Western Grebes, and both used to breed and nest here, but not in the past few years. A few Western Grebes went through a few weeks ago but didn't stay.
Pauli Smith
Highlandlake/Mead, Weld County, CO
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Date: 5/27/26 11:18 am From: 'Buzz Schaumberg' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] recent posts to COBIRDS
Dave-
i love getting all of your email's about birds and their food. I'd rather get duplicates than miss any.
Sent from AOL Desktop Buzz Schaumbergcell: 303.478.4641In a message dated 5/17/2026 3:28:05 PM Mountain Daylight Time, <daleatherman...> writes:
I spent about 4 hours composing a post to COBIRDS this morning and then received a message from GoogleGroups that it couldn’t be sent because it was too big. After a bleep-punctuated period of frustration that my apartment neighbors probably overheard, I sat down and composed a smaller one. Now I see that BOTH posts went out. Sorry for the duplication but it’s not my fault.
Dave Leatherman
Fort Collins
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Date: 5/27/26 5:03 am From: Sue Plankis <splankis...> Subject: [cobirds] Re: David Suddjian eBird top audio World
Well done David!
On Tuesday, May 26, 2026 at 3:18:40 PM UTC-6 linda purcell wrote:
> Red Crossbill! well done, David!
>
> [image: top audio world red crossbill Suddjian 25 may 2026.jpg]
>
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Date: 5/26/26 4:55 pm From: 'Meredith McBurney' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Chatfield Banding Station, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies 5-26-26
A pleasantly cool and cloudy day, it was wonderful to be out! We kept busy with new birds (26), returning birds (4) and birds that we had already caught this season that breed at Chat (18).
Best bird of the day was a FOS Cedar Waxwing, that we had banded in 2024; I don't think we've ever had a repeat CEDW before.
The goldfinch appear to have paired up; we caught a pair of Lessers side by side in a net, and a bit later a pair of Americans.
Here's the breakdown of our new and returns today:
Western Wood Pewee 1 Western Flycatcher 1 Northern House Wren 1 banded 2023, female sitting on eggs Swainson's Thrush 2 Gray Catbird 4 new, 1 banded 2025 Cedar Waxwing 1 banded 2024 Orange-crowned Warbler 1 Yellow Warbler 11 new, 1 banded 2023 Spotted Towhee 1, female on eggs Lincoln's Sparrow 1 Lesser Goldfinch 2 American Goldfinch 2
We are banding Tuesday through Sunday (closed Mondays) through May 31, weather permitting. There are opportunities for the public to visit on weekends and early mornings most weekdays. Reservations are required and can be made through the Denver Audubon website <https://www.denveraudubon.org/calendar>. (Many/most sessions are already sold out, so sign up now if you are interested!)
Meredith McBurney Bander, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
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Date: 5/26/26 2:18 pm From: linda purcell <linpurcellzz...> Subject: [cobirds] David Suddjian eBird top audio World
Red Crossbill! well done, David!
[image: top audio world red crossbill Suddjian 25 may 2026.jpg]
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Date: 5/26/26 12:45 pm From: Chicobander <jshieldcastle...> Subject: [cobirds] Chico Basin Ranch Banding Station Report- May 26, 2026-Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
A quiet day in the banding woods today. I believe the winds carried the migrating birds overtop and not many dropped into the woods for the day. The highlight for the day was a couple returning birds and a female Hooded Warbler. We are still catching male MacGillivray's Warblers so migration is not over yet. Just when you think there is not anything different around, a different species shows up.
*34 New Banded Birds* Yellow Warbler- 1 Hooded Warbler- 1 Common Yellowthroat- 1 MacGillivray's Warbler- 4 Western Wood-Pewee- 1 Lesser Goldfinch- 1 American Goldfinch- 1 Lincoln's Sparrow- 3 Lazuli Bunting- 1 House Finch- 1 Swainson's Thrush- 16 Orchard Oriole- 1 Gray Catbird- 1 Common Grackle- 1
*2 Recaptures (banded this season)* Orchard Oriole Bullock's Oriole (Both are breeding species in the banding area)
*2 Returns- banded a different season* Orchard Oriole male- banded in spring 2024 as an adult- It is at least 5 years old. Blue Grosbeak female- banded last spring as an adult- it is at least 4 years old. Just shows that bird come back to the area they have been breeding. We may not catch them every year. However, humans should recognize when habitat is altered or destroyed the animals that rely on that habitat may not survive or have to search for suitable habitat elsewhere.
The Banding station will be open tomorrow through Saturday from sunrise until @ 11AM. Remember to register online at the Aiken Audubon website to bird/visit the ranch. www.aikenaudubon.com Stop by the banding station to share your sightings with us!
Have a good day,
Julie Shieldcastle Bander, Chico Basin Ranch Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
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Date: 5/26/26 8:46 am From: Brandon <flammowl17...> Subject: [cobirds] Custer County rarities 5/26
Photographed both a Blue-winged Warbler and Red-eyed Vireo below the dam at
Lake DeWeese, near Westcliffe in Custer County this morning. Both are
birds I hadn’t seen in Custer County before. Seems like a lot of
interesting eastern migrants in odd locations this spring.
Brandon K. Percival
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Date: 5/25/26 1:07 pm From: Chicobander <jshieldcastle...> Subject: [cobirds] Chico Basin Ranch Banding Station Report- May 25, 2026-Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
Although it may be a solemn day for some since it is Memorial Day, I am truly grateful for all the sacrifices past and current veterans, and active personnel who have made America free. WE do not realize what freedoms we have until we lose them. Let's Not lose them. I get the opportunity to be here in CO to conduct bird research with Bird Conservancy of the Rockies. I am certain that if I was in many other countries I would not have this privilege.
Today was a nice day to be outside. We did have a couple new birds for the season including Indigo Bunting female and a Northern Mockingbird. A nice diversity of bird species of 22 species rounded out the morning for our catch of the day. A third Ovenbird and a second American Redstart was banded at the station this season. A light north wind still had us catching Hermit Thrushes; However, they were last year's hatch so most Hermit Thrushes should be completing migration soon.
*61 New Banded Birds* Yellow Warbler- 1 American Redstart- 1 Ovenbird- 1 MacGillivray's Warbler- 5 Willow Flycatcher- 1 Traill's Flycatcher- 1 (Measurements were in the overlap area for Alder and Willow) Western Wood-pewee- 3 Swainson's Thrush- 24 Hermit Thrush- 2 American Goldfinch- 2 Lincoln's Sparrow- 4 Lazuli Bunting- 1 Indigo Bunting- 1 Blue Grosbeak- 2 Lark Sparrow- 1 Mountain White-crowned Sparrow- 1 Bullock's Oriole-7 Gray Catbird- 1 Northern Mockingbird- 1 Blue Jay- 1 Common Grackle- 1
*1 Return* Northern House Wren- banded last fall as a hatching year bird (returned to the same breeding area it was hatched)
The Banding Station will be open tomorrow through Saturday at Sunrise until @11 AM. Register at Aiken Audubon website if interested in birding/visiting the ranch. www.aikenaudubon.com Thanks again to all the veterans both past and present.
Have a good day,
Julie Shieldcastle Bander Chico Basin Ranch Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
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Date: 5/25/26 7:03 am From: Kit Seeborg <kit...> Subject: [cobirds] Program reminder: May 26 Butterfly ID with Wynne Whyman
Tomorrow evening! Boulder County Audubon Society welcomes Wynne Whyman on
Tuesday, May 26 to help you discover the joy of observing local butterflies
all season long. Begin learning about the fascinating world of butterflies
in Boulder County (and the Front Range) with basics for identifying
different species, when and where to find them, their interconnected
relationships with plants, and photography tips.
Kit
--
*Kit Seeborg*
Communication and Outreach Volunteer
Boulder County Audubon Society <http://www.boulderaudubon.org> Boulder, Colorado
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Date: 5/24/26 5:16 pm From: 'Meredith McBurney' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Chatfield Banding Station, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies 5-24-26
A somewhat abbreviated day - there was wind that prevented a few nets from being opened at all, and it was cloudless, sunny, and hot, which led us to close nets 30 to 60 minutes early. It was also a pretty slow day overall, with only 15 new birds caught/banded:
Willow Flycatcher 3 (FOS) Warbling Vireo, measured as Western 1 Black-capped Chickadee 1 Northern House Wren 2 Gray Catbird 1 Yellow Warbler 5 Common Yellowthroat 1 Yellow-breasted Chat 1
We are banding Tuesday through Sunday (closed Mondays) through May 31, weather permitting. There are opportunities for the public to visit on weekends and early mornings most weekdays. Reservations are required and can be made through the Denver Audubon website <https://www.denveraudubon.org/calendar>. (Many/most sessions are already sold out, so sign up now if you are interested!)
Meredith McBurney Bander, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
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Date: 5/24/26 6:47 am From: George Mayfield <georgemayfield...> Subject: [cobirds] Share Your Bird Reminder: Photos for Colorado Birds! — Winter 2025–2026 (December 1 – February 28)
Hello CO Birders, Another quarter, another chance to share your best work!
Colorado Birds, the quarterly journal of the Colorado Field Ornithologists,
is now accepting photo submissions for our "News From The Field" feature.
We're on the lookout for compelling images of rare, vagrant, or otherwise
unusual birds documented in Colorado between December 1, 2025, and February
28, 2026 (see submission guidelines below).
To be considered in the upcoming issue, please send your highest-quality
photos to <geo......> <https://groups.google.com/> no later than
Thursday, May 28, 2026 — and be sure to follow the file-naming guidelines
below when you do.
We'd particularly love to feature photos of these noteworthy species
observed during this period:
Thanks for your contributions to *Colorado Birds*. Your dedication and
generosity help maintain our journal's excellence, making it one of the
country's finest. Thanks for sharing your photography with us!
George Mayfield
Photo Editor, Colorado Birds
Wheat Ridge, CO
------------------------------
*Photo Submission Guidelines:*
Photos from *Winter 2025–2026 (December 1 – February 28)*
Photos must be your own, and by submitting them, you give Colorado Birds
permission to reproduce in any issue and on the CFO website. We always
credit images with the photographer's name.
*Please use the following format for the photo file names:*
*species-date-location-county-photographer*. For example, a photo of an
American Robin taken Oct. 4, 2024 at Chatfield State Park by John James
Audubon would be named as follows:
*American Robin (or AMRO)-20241004-Chatfield-Adams-JJAudubon.*
Minimum quality for interior publication use is 750 x 900 pixels. To be
considered for the journal cover, photos must be at least 2625 pixels
(vertically) x 1725 pixels (horizontally). Please send original files in
the largest resolution possible (300 dpi is preferable). We will crop and
resize as needed. Email your submissions to <geo......>
<https://groups.google.com/>
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Date: 5/23/26 5:19 pm From: 'Meredith McBurney' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Chatfield Banding Station, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies 5-23-26
About half as many birds today as yesterday - perhaps warmer temps and wind early had some impact. No new species caught. Here's the breakdown of the 25 new and 4 returns:
Western Wood-pewee 1 Warbling Vireo, measured as Western 1 Swainson's Thrush 1 Gray Catbird 3 new, 2 returns, both banded 2025 Virginia's Warbler 1 Yellow Warbler 5 new, 1 return, banded 2024 MacGillivray's Warbler 1 Common Yellowthroat 3 Wilson's Warbler 4 Yellow-breasted Chat 1 new, 1 return, banded 2022 Song Sparrow 1 Lincoln's Sparrow 1 Brown-headed Cowbird 1 American Goldfinch 1
We are banding Tuesday through Sunday (closed Mondays) through May 31, weather permitting. There are opportunities for the public to visit on weekends and early mornings most weekdays. Reservations are required and can be made through the Denver Audubon website <https://www.denveraudubon.org/calendar>. (Many/most sessions are already sold out, so sign up now if you are interested!)
Meredith McBurney Bander, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
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Date: 5/23/26 2:03 pm From: Timothy Barksdale <timothy.barksdale...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] ID help please! Juvie Peregrine or a Prairie Falcon?
CO Birders
I also see a long winged falcon as Tony noted, but I feel the tail /primary
difference is due to angles, not the actual lengths.
The malar stripe is well within "normal" peregrine (especially tundrius).
We all need to remember that a lot of "Heinz 57" peregrines are out there.
Even USFWS relied upon some birds with Scottish genes.
At the Alton, Illinois eyrie about a week ago, I was struck by how much the
male looked like one of the arctic breeders which I filmed at Kuujuaq years
ago, while the female has one of the most "anatum" heads- almost like a
Helmet. So even within mated pairs there is quite a range of variation,
which produces offspring carrying a ton of genetic material all over the
place.
Tim B.
Mokane, MO and Choteau, MT
On Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at 8:22:18 PM UTC-5 Tony Leukering wrote:
> All:
>
> My Brit friend is confused by the bird in the photos:
>
> " The pictures are just awkward enough to create some uncertainty. The
> shape of the malar looks blobby and round-ended; it looks odd to me for
> Hobby, but I have no explanation for what it could be. Bill is small on
> Hobby."
>
> If we rule out Eurasian Hobby, what about other falcons not on the CO
> state list? Aplomado doesn't work at all. Juvenile Red-footed Falcon
> doesn't sport so much black on the face. And none of Oriental Falcon, Bat
> Falcon, and Orange-breasted Falcon looks anything like the Weld bird, even
> as juvs. And that's the end of the list of even remotely possible wild
> occurrences by *Falco* species not on the ABA-Area list. And it doesn't
> look like a juvenile Eleonora's Falcon (a beast I'd really like to see due
> to its hunting habits; Eleonora's falcon - Wikipedia
> <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eleonora%27s_falcon> ).
>
> It still looks more like a hobby than any other falcon I've seen, and if
> the bird is not a Eurasian Hobby, then we might need to think about what
> odd hybrids falconers may have created that might match this bird's
> appearance.
>
> Enjoy,
>
> Tony Leukering
> Cut Bank, MT
>
> On Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at 5:55:02 PM UTC-6 Tony Leukering wrote:
>
>> Note that the wingtips extend beyond the tail tip, a feature not true for
>> Prairie or Peregrine, particularly for the shorter-winged juveniles.
>>
>> Tony Leukering
>>
>> On Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at 5:35:36 PM UTC-6 Tony Leukering wrote:
>>
>>> As suggested to me by Dave Leatherman, that looks more like an Eurasian
>>> Hobby. I've sent a screen grab to a Brit friend in Connecticut for his
>>> opinion.
>>>
>>> Tony Leukering
>>> Cut Bank, MT
>>>
>>> On Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at 4:25:47 PM UTC-6 Peter Ruprecht wrote:
>>>
>>>> I'd go with immature Peregrine. The malar is too wide for a Prairie,
>>>> and I'd expect a Prairie of any age to have a more distinct light
>>>> supercilium.
>>>>
>>>> Peter Ruprecht
>>>> Superior
>>>>
>>>> On Tue, May 19, 2026 at 3:37 PM <jay......> wrote:
>>>>
>>>>> All:
>>>>>
>>>>> I'm a bit stumped on this ID. Seen this morning in a filed just north
>>>>> of Union Res in Weld Co. Bird was sitting in the field for 10+minutes and
>>>>> I got a few pics from scope.
>>>>>
>>>>> So I figure it's either a juvenille Peregrine or a Prairie Falcon.
>>>>> Obvious dark mustache, white cheeks and throat.
>>>>>
>>>>> Please comment away!
>>>>>
>>>>> Jay Hutchins
>>>>> Longmont
>>>>>
>>>>> [image: image0.jpeg][image: image1.jpeg][image: image2.jpeg][image:
>>>>> image3.jpeg]
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> Sent from my iPhone
>>>>>
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>>>>> Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate.
>>>>> * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/membership/ >>>>> ---
>>>>> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google
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>>>>> an email to cobirds+<u......>
>>>>> To view this discussion visit
>>>>> https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/<8D7BDEBD-B5A5-44D1-98C8-4E662C6DABAB...> >>>>> <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/<8D7BDEBD-B5A5-44D1-98C8-4E662C6DABAB...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> >>>>> .
>>>>>
>>>>
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Date: 5/23/26 12:15 pm From: Chicobander <jshieldcastle...> Subject: [cobirds] Chico Basin Ranch Banding Station Report- May 23, 2026-Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
Many Thanks to the Veterans past and presently with us as well as those fiercely defending our freedoms. I appreciate your sacrifice. May our freedoms continue Thanks to all the efforts of our Veterans and active military. Today was not as active as yesterday but we still had a good diversity of birds. Highlights were the female Magnolia Warbler, Pine Siskin, and adult male Summer Tanager. Twenty-three bird species were captured. Most of the Recaptures were breeding bird species so they were not fat nor gained much weight which is expected since they are busy defending territories from invading males or busy gathering nest materials.
*8 Recaptures* MacGillivray's Warbler- increased weight from banding date Lazuli Bunting- 2 Orchard Oriole Bullock's Oriole-2 Yellow-breasted Chat- 2
The Banding Station will be closed tomorrow and reopen on Monday at sunrise. Tomorrow should be good day to bird the Ranch. Weather looks favorable. If wanting to bird the ranch, Please register on the Aiken Audubon Website www.aikenaudubon.com
Enjoy the Weekend,
Julie Shieldcastle Bander, Chico Basin Ranch Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
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Date: 5/23/26 8:45 am From: John Tumasonis <snakemonev...> Subject: [cobirds] Gregory Canyon Survey for May, Boulder Mt. Park - seen near Long Canyon \ Gregory Canyon trail junction.
From Gregory Canyon Survey May 22nd, 2026
Photo of Ovenbird during the survey:
[image: Ovenbird Long Canyon Boulder CO 1 signed copy.jpg]
May 22, 2026, Bird Inventory for Gregory Canyon, Boulder Mt. Park
Birds:
Mourning Dove – 6 – at both low and high elevations
Broad Tailed Hummingbird – 19 – concentrated at lower elevations
Northern Flicker – 1 – only one seen and heard
Hammond’s Flycatcher – 2 – one near the parking lot, another at high
elevation
Warbling Vireo spp. – 7 – at all elevations, singing, foraging
Plumbeous Vireo – 8 – most up in ponderosa pine areas, singing, chases,
calls
Blue Jay – 2 – one near parking area, one at higher elevation
Stellar’s Jay – 8 – up high and low – one doing an imitation of a Cooper’s
hawk
Black Billed Magpie – 6 – all near the road and parking area
American Crow – 12 – calls, flying
Common Raven – 50+ unusual mass of ravens riding thermals and calling, over
Green Mountain and the First Flatiron and over the canyon. These groupings
are unusual, and there is still debate as to why they congregate like this.
(Note: I had seen a congregation similar to this over Mount Blue Sky
several years ago, with over 300 ravens. It was astonishing to see!)
Violet Green Swallow – 4 – lower elevation, calling and flying
Black Capped Chickadee – 6 – at high and low elevations
Bushtit – 2 – along the road near the parking area
White Breasted Nuthatch – 2 – foraging, calling
Pygmy Nuthatch – 2 – near the road
Red Breasted Nuthatch – 8 – calls, foraging, higher up in Douglas Fir \
Pine forests
House Wren – 13 – most near the road and lower elevations
Canyon Wren – 1 – singing, lower part of canyon trial
Blue Gray Gnatcatcher – 1 – one calling and foraging, lower elevation
American Robin – 16 – males and females at all elevations, foraging
Gray Catbird – 9 – most near the road and parking area, chases, songs, calls
Virginia’s Warbler – 8 – most at higher elevations, songs, foraging
MacGillivray’s Warbler – 2 – songs, lower part of canyon
Audubon’s Warbler – 1 – singing, highest part of survey route
Ovenbird – 1 (plus 3 more in Long Canyon area) – songs and perched in
evergreens. The one for Gregory Canyon was just inside the survey route
close to the Long Canyon Trail junction.
Yellow Breasted Chat – 3 – songs, near road and upslope from parking area.
Western Tanager – 14 – songs, calls, flying; majority were at higher
elevations in the pine belt
Spotted Towhee – 16 – at all elevations, but most lower down
Gray Headed Junco – 4 – two pairs near nest sites, higher elevation
Black Headed Grosbeak – 8 – songs, flying, perched. Most at lower
elevations
Common Grackle – 4 – near the parking area
Brown Headed Cowbird – 10 – calls, songs, flying, most at lower elevations
American Goldfinch – 2 – songs, perched; near the road
Total Bird Species Count = 36 (one more than last year)
Conspicuously Absent: starlings and raptors
Mammals:
Mule Deer - 2
Fox Squirrel – 3
Pine Squirrel – 4
Chipmunk spp. – 1
Snakes:
Western Terrestrial Garter Snake – 1
Wildflowers were scant due to lack of rain, but small amounts of the
following were seen - spiderwort, evening primrose, sulphurflower,
scorpionweed, garlic mustard, bush penstemon, wallflower, asters,
cranesbill, phlox, wild violet, dandelion, lavender penstemon, toadflax,
goldenbanner, desert parsley, mountain parsley, etc.
John T (Tumasonis)
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Date: 5/23/26 7:17 am From: Mary Kay Waddington <waddingtonmk...> Subject: [cobirds] Western Warbling Vireo, Custer County
Birding in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristos, the Western Warbling Vireos have started to rev up. Several of them, singing all over the place. The strange thing is that Merlin does not recognize them at all. Several times there was one singing loudly right next to me and Merlin was a blank. In the "explore" portion of Merlin it comes up with the calls, and when I play that call, the Vireos come right down to investigate. But in the ID section, nada. Has anyone else experienced this? Is it possible that when the species split they accidentally deleted the Western from the ID section?
Mary Kay Waddington
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Date: 5/22/26 6:11 pm From: 'Meredith McBurney' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Chatfield Banding Station, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies 5-22-26
We had our busiest day of this banding season, with 51 new captures and 3 returns from previous years. Cool, cloudy and windless for most of the morning, it was perfect for banding.
We caught 7 Western Tanagers, more than we've ever caught in a season.
We caught 4 Warbling Vireos, our first this season. Like Chico (and all of our stations) we are taking specific bill measurements to see if we can determine if we are getting Eastern and/or Westerns of this species that was recently split. All 4 of these were measured by 2 banders, and fell within the Western measurements.
Here's the breakdown:
Western Wood-pewee 3 Dusky Flycatcher 2 Warbling Vireo, measured as Western 4 Black-capped Chickadee 1, banded 2025 Northern House Wren 2 Swainson's Thrush 1 Hermit Thrush 1 Gray Catbird 2 new, 1 banded 2019 (a pretty old bird!) Orange-crowned Warbler 1 Yellow Warbler 10 American Redstart 1, banded 2025 MacGillivray's Warbler 5 Common Yellowthroat 3 Wilson's Warbler 3 Western Tanager 7 Lincoln's Sparrow 3 White-crowned Sparrow, Mountain 1 American Goldfinch 3
We are banding Tuesday through Sunday (closed Mondays) through May 31, weather permitting. There are opportunities for the public to visit on weekends and early mornings most weekdays. Reservations are required and can be made through the Denver Audubon website <https://www.denveraudubon.org/calendar>. (Many/most sessions are already sold out, so sign up now if you are interested!)
Meredith McBurney Bander, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
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Date: 5/22/26 5:50 pm From: Brandon <flammowl17...> Subject: [cobirds] Red Phalarope in breeding plumage at Big Johnson Res., El Paso Co
Kara Carragher and I discovered a breeding plumage female RED PHALAROPE late this afternoon at Big Johnson Reservoir in El Paso County, swimming in the middle of the lake. We saw it from the dirt parking lot to the west of the regular paved parking lot. Several other birders were able to see the bird, and luckily Luke P and Brian G were there and were able to get photos and video through their scopes. This is the first breeding plumaged Red Phalarope I have seen in Colorado.
Brandon K. Percival
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Date: 5/22/26 12:19 pm From: Chicobander <jshieldcastle...> Subject: [cobirds] Chico Basin Ranch Banding Station Report- May 22, 2026-Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
Two Spring Seasons ago in 2024 on this date, there was 8-10" of snow at Chico on the ground. Every year is different and this is not any different. Spring banding numbers are up from the all- time low bird numbers last spring that I experienced and numbers are still lower than the previous two spring seasons. Today the Swainon's Thrushes made their appearance. I was glad to see them. Last spring they arrived very late and on the last banding date in May was our biggest catch. Weather definitely alters the bird's migratory pathways but other obstacles and environmental conditions can as well. Let's hope for a more normal spring. Twenty species of birds were banded including 2 more Veeries (Total of 4 banded this spring), and another Ovenbird.
*3 Recaptures - same season banded* Lazuli Bunting Swainson's Thrush Yellow-breasted Chat Bunting and Chat gained weight/ Swainson's Thrush lost .4 g since original band date.
The Banding station will be open tomorrow at sunrise until @11 AM. Please register on the Aiken Audubon website if want to visit/bird the ranch. www.aikenaudubon.com Please stop by the banding station to share your sightings. We would love to hear bout them.
Have a good weekend,
Julie Shieldcastle Bander, Chico Basin Ranch Bird conservancy of the Rockies
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It's now posted out of reach and I have at least 3 male Broad-tailed Hummers fighting over it.
I usually have a male Lazuli Buntings hanging around, but this year I've seen at least 3 along with a couple of females.
A mini-irruption of male Western Tanagers this year, 3-4 at a time. Multiple females as well.
Numbers of both American and Lesser Goldfinches are markedly up this year.
Most interestingly, the following two birds.
A Band-tailed Pigeon. A lifer for me and only spotted once - BIG, white blaze on the nape, and bright yellow feet.
What appears to be a male hybrid red-shafted / yellow-shafted flicker - red V on the back of the head AND red lores. Definitely red-shafted. Does this sound like a hybrid, or is it possible for a red-shafted flicker to have a red blaze on the back of the neck?
Jim Tyler Roxborough Village
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Date: 5/21/26 6:04 pm From: 'Meredith McBurney' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Chatfield Banding Station, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies 5-21-26
We were back to banding this morning after our regular day off on Monday and then 2 more days off due to weather. The number of new birds caught remained at about the same level as the previous week or so, but the diversity is up as we get later in the migration. Eighteen species caught, including 5 first of seasons, for a total of 32 new and 3 returns:
Western Wood-pewee 3 Least Flycatcher 1 (FOS) Western Flycatcher 2 (FOS) Black-capped Chickadee 1 Swainson's Thrush 1 Hermit Thrush 1 Gray Catbird 5 Virginia's Warbler 1 (FOS, and first since 2023) Yellow Warbler 1 new, 1 banded 2025 Yellow-rumped Warbler, Audubon's 1 American Redstart 1 banded 2023 MacGillivray's Warbler 2 Common Yellowthroat 5 Wilson's Warbler 1 Yellow-breasted Chat 2 new, 1 banded 2025 Lincoln's Sparrow 1 Lazuli Bunting 1 FOS Bullock's Oriole 3 FOS
We are banding Tuesday through Sunday (closed Mondays) through May 31, weather permitting. There are opportunities for the public to visit on weekends and early mornings most weekdays. Reservations are required and can be made through the Denver Audubon website <https://www.denveraudubon.org/calendar>. (Many/most sessions are already sold out, so sign up now if you are interested!)
Meredith McBurney Bander, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
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Date: 5/21/26 3:27 pm From: John Tumasonis <snakemonev...> Subject: [cobirds] South Platte River Trail bird walk coming up
All: I'm going to open this walk up to the public: As per CoBirds guidelines this if FREE and open to birders of all levels (beginners through experts). Educational and for seeing an identifying birds by sight and sound.
*Wednesday May 27th - Birding the South Platte River Trail near Adams County Fairgrounds. * We will walk on flat ground, sidewalks, and some gravel paths along the South Platte River that is a great area for orioles, kingbirds (both), herons, egrets, pelicans, bald eagles, yellow warblers, and many others. This area is where I observed several orchard orioles for several weeks last summer.
Approximately 4-5 miles of walking, restrooms near meeting point. You can leave any time you wish. Limit 12 people.
*Reply to me directly* for reserving a spot. *Do not* reply to Group Email. I will send meeting time, place, and what to bring.
Thanks, John T (Tumasonis)
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Date: 5/21/26 12:51 pm From: Chicobander <jshieldcastle...> Subject: [cobirds] Chico Basin Ranch Banding Station Report- May 21, 2026-Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
The Banding station woods was loud with Western Kingbirds early but not much influx of birds until after 9:00 AM. We caught the Townsend's Solitaire that had been hanging out for the past 3 days in the area. More Bullock's Orioles, mainly the second-year males piled into the woods. Most were very fat so they are only stopping for the day and will not be here to breed. Another Warbling Vireo was banded and the measurements were not such we could ID it to the Western or Eastern Warbling Vireo. All recaptured birds not breeding in the banding area increased their weight from their previous banding date. Just think if we had no birds how many insects and pests we would have! YAY birds!
The Banding station will be open tomorrow from sunrise until @11 AM. Hoping for a good movement of birds. Remember to register on the Aiken Audubon website if coming to bird the ranch. ww.aikenaudubon.com <http://www.aikenaudubon.com>
Enjoy the Day!
Julie Shieldcastle Bander, Chico Basin Ranch Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
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Date: 5/20/26 6:01 pm From: Ted Floyd <tedfloyd73...> Subject: [cobirds] Colorado birder Amelie Anderson named 2026 ABA Young Birder of the Year
Hey, all.
Here's a news story from a short while ago on Colorado birder Amelie
Anderson, recently named 2026 American Birding Association Young Birder of
the Year:
While I have everybody's attention, here's a fun pic of Amelie and her
birding buds at The Arsenal, of course, back on Feb. 22, 2026. L.–r.:
Isabelle Busch, Topiltzin Martínez, Patrick O'Driscoll, Amelie (in purple
jacket), me, Elena Klaver, Tykee James, Linda Lee, Eric Perryman, Lori
Potter, Isaac Boardman.
[image: arsenal_group_720.jpg]
Ted Floyd
Lafayette, Boulder Co.
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Date: 5/20/26 5:45 pm From: 'Andrews Robert' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Black-bellied Plover and Red-necked Phalarope at Cherry Creek State Park, Arapahoe Co.
Hello all,
An excellent day of birding at Cherry Creek State Park, Arapahoe County today with Cynthia Madsen and Dave Hill. We saw 17 species of shorebirds, which in my experience is a very good count for the park. Highlights were Black-bellied Plover and Red-necked Phalarope. There were two Black-bellied Plovers at Pelican Point, one in full breeding plumage. We made a count of 124 Red-necked Phalaropes. This count could be low as flocks of 10-50 birds were constantly moving around. They were seen mostly from the Prairie Loop west to the southeast corner of the Lake Loop. There were also astounding numbers of swallows, probably 1000 or more. They were everywhere, over the lake, along the shore, in the woods, and over the grasslands. They were mostly Barn, Cliff and Violet-green, with some Tree and a few Northern Rough-winged. Migrant passerine species (warblers, sparrows, etc.) were very few. Dave posted the full list to eBird.
Bob Andrews
Yekepa, Nimba Co., Liberia, West Africa
Currently in Centennial, Arapahoe Co.
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Date: 5/20/26 4:16 pm From: George Mayfield <georgemayfield...> Subject: [cobirds] Share Your Bird Photos for Colorado Birds! — Winter 2025–2026 (December 1 – February 28)
Hello CO Birders, Another quarter, another chance to share your best work!
Colorado Birds, the quarterly journal of the Colorado Field Ornithologists,
is now accepting photo submissions for our "News From The Field" feature.
We're on the lookout for compelling images of rare, vagrant, or otherwise
unusual birds documented in Colorado between December 1, 2025, and February
28, 2026 (see submission guidelines below).
To be considered in the upcoming issue, please send your highest-quality
photos to <george...> no later than Thursday, May 28, 2026 — and be
sure to follow the file-naming guidelines below when you do.
We'd particularly love to feature photos of these noteworthy species
observed during this period:
Thanks for your contributions to *Colorado Birds*. Your dedication and
generosity help maintain our journal's excellence, making it one of the
country's finest. Thanks for sharing your photography with us!
George Mayfield
Photo Editor, Colorado Birds
Wheat Ridge, CO
------------------------------
*Photo Submission Guidelines:*
Photos from *Winter 2025–2026 (December 1 – February 28)*
Photos must be your own, and by submitting them, you give Colorado Birds
permission to reproduce in any issue and on the CFO website. We always
credit images with the photographer's name.
*Please use the following format for the photo file names:*
*species-date-location-county-photographer*. For example, a photo of an
American Robin taken Oct. 4, 2024 at Chatfield State Park by John James
Audubon would be named as follows:
*American Robin (or AMRO)-20241004-Chatfield-Adams-JJAudubon.*
Minimum quality for interior publication use is 750 x 900 pixels. To be
considered for the journal cover, photos must be at least 2625 pixels
(vertically) x 1725 pixels (horizontally). Please send original files in
the largest resolution possible (300 dpi is preferable). We will crop and
resize as needed. Email your submissions to <george...>
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Date: 5/20/26 1:45 pm From: Chicobander <jshieldcastle...> Subject: [cobirds] Chico Basin Ranch Banding Station Report- May 20, 2026-Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
A strange day weatherwise/birdwise which led to more birds being around after 10:30 AM today. No rain her after 4 AM but was cloudy most of morning with a couple peaks of the sunshine. Still not many birds as the day before but after 10:30 the banding woods was moving with birds. The sun did eventually come out fully after 11 AM. Anyway, those birding the woods after 11 AM were busy looking at the birds around. The Ovenbird was still singing near the banding building again today.
*38 New Banded Birds* Wilson's Warbler- 1 Common Yellowthroat- 2 MacGillivray's Warbler- 1 Yellow-breasted Chat- 3 Northern House Wren- 1 Willow Flycatcher- 1 Dusky Flycatcher- 2 Western Flycatcher- 1 Lincoln's Sparrow- 2 Mountain White-crowned Sparrow- 1 American Goldfinch- 4 Swainson's Thrush - 9 Western Tanager- 2 Gray Catbird- 2 Bullock's Oriole- 2 Black-headed Grosbeak- 3 Brown Thrasher- 1
Hoping the weather will push out the birds hanging around for several days and bring in more new ones to the banding woods. The Banding station will be open tomorrow from sunrise until @11 AM. Stop by and share your bird sightings with us. Register to bird on the ranch at Aiken Audubon website www.aikenaudubon.com Remember there is limited cell service out there so if unfamiliar with the areas to bird, Please take a pic or download the map on the website.
Have a good day,
Julie Shieldcastle Bander, Chico Basin Ranch Bird conservancy of the Rockies
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Date: 5/20/26 10:19 am From: linda hodges <hikerhodges...> Subject: [cobirds] Aiken Audubon hybird mtg tonight: Corvids + Conifers: Pinyon Jays in WY's Bighorn Basin
*MAY MONTHLY MEETING TONIGHT: CORVIDS AND CONIFERS - *
*PINYON JAYS IN WYOMING'S BIGHORN BASIN*
In 2024, the Draper Natural History Museum, in partnership with the Bureau
of Land Management, Museum of Wildlife and Fish Biology at the University
of California, Davis, Northwest College, and the US Fish and Wildlife
Service initiated a study to characterize habitat use by Pinyon Jays across
limber-pine woodlands in Wyoming’s Bighorn Basin. In this presentation,
join Corey Anco as he shares highlights from the first few field seasons of
this project and explores the Pinyon Jay’s curious relationship with
seed-bearing pines.
*This is a hybrid meeting: in-person at the Colorado Parks & Wildlife
Office; 4255 Sinton Road, Colorado Springs 80907*. Our entrance to the
building is located on the EAST side (back side) of the building; not the
main entrance. Parking is encouraged in the south and west parking lots.
Doors Open 6:30pm
Snacks & Bird Talk (meet & mingle) 6:45pm
Meeting announcements 7:00pm
Program Presentation 7:15pm
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Date: 5/19/26 6:22 pm From: 'Tony Leukering' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] ID help please! Juvie Peregrine or a Prairie Falcon?
All:
My Brit friend is confused by the bird in the photos:
" The pictures are just awkward enough to create some uncertainty. The
shape of the malar looks blobby and round-ended; it looks odd to me for
Hobby, but I have no explanation for what it could be. Bill is small on
Hobby."
If we rule out Eurasian Hobby, what about other falcons not on the CO state
list? Aplomado doesn't work at all. Juvenile Red-footed Falcon doesn't
sport so much black on the face. And none of Oriental Falcon, Bat Falcon,
and Orange-breasted Falcon looks anything like the Weld bird, even as juvs.
And that's the end of the list of even remotely possible wild occurrences
by *Falco* species not on the ABA-Area list. And it doesn't look like a
juvenile Eleonora's Falcon (a beast I'd really like to see due to its
hunting habits; Eleonora's falcon - Wikipedia
<https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eleonora%27s_falcon> ).
It still looks more like a hobby than any other falcon I've seen, and if
the bird is not a Eurasian Hobby, then we might need to think about what
odd hybrids falconers may have created that might match this bird's
appearance.
Enjoy,
Tony Leukering
Cut Bank, MT
On Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at 5:55:02 PM UTC-6 Tony Leukering wrote:
> Note that the wingtips extend beyond the tail tip, a feature not true for
> Prairie or Peregrine, particularly for the shorter-winged juveniles.
>
> Tony Leukering
>
> On Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at 5:35:36 PM UTC-6 Tony Leukering wrote:
>
>> As suggested to me by Dave Leatherman, that looks more like an Eurasian
>> Hobby. I've sent a screen grab to a Brit friend in Connecticut for his
>> opinion.
>>
>> Tony Leukering
>> Cut Bank, MT
>>
>> On Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at 4:25:47 PM UTC-6 Peter Ruprecht wrote:
>>
>>> I'd go with immature Peregrine. The malar is too wide for a Prairie, and
>>> I'd expect a Prairie of any age to have a more distinct light supercilium.
>>>
>>> Peter Ruprecht
>>> Superior
>>>
>>> On Tue, May 19, 2026 at 3:37 PM <jay......> wrote:
>>>
>>>> All:
>>>>
>>>> I'm a bit stumped on this ID. Seen this morning in a filed just north
>>>> of Union Res in Weld Co. Bird was sitting in the field for 10+minutes and
>>>> I got a few pics from scope.
>>>>
>>>> So I figure it's either a juvenille Peregrine or a Prairie Falcon.
>>>> Obvious dark mustache, white cheeks and throat.
>>>>
>>>> Please comment away!
>>>>
>>>> Jay Hutchins
>>>> Longmont
>>>>
>>>> [image: image0.jpeg][image: image1.jpeg][image: image2.jpeg][image:
>>>> image3.jpeg]
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> Sent from my iPhone
>>>>
>>>> --
>>>> --
>>>> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google
>>>> Groups "Colorado Birds" group.
>>>> To post to this group, send email to <cob......>
>>>> For more options, visit this group at
>>>> http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds >>>> * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city.
>>>> Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate.
>>>> * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/membership/ >>>> ---
>>>> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google
>>>> Groups "Colorado Birds" group.
>>>> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send
>>>> an email to cobirds+<u......>
>>>> To view this discussion visit
>>>> https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/<8D7BDEBD-B5A5-44D1-98C8-4E662C6DABAB...> >>>> <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/<8D7BDEBD-B5A5-44D1-98C8-4E662C6DABAB...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> >>>> .
>>>>
>>>
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Please do not enter just one list for all of Chico Basin Ranch, the ranch
is in two counties. The northern birding locations are in El Paso County,
this is the banding station. The southern part of the ranch is in Pueblo
County, the birding locations here are the Headquarter pond and willows and
Rose Pond. There’s no real water on the El Paso County side of the ranch,
so any checklists with a bunch of water birds, aren’t entered correctly.
The water birds are at Headquarters Pond and Rose Pond, that are in Pueblo
County.
Today’s highlights for me were, a nicely photographed Philadelphia Vireo at
Rose Pond, Pueblo County, and male Magnolia Warbler, Veery, Northern
Waterthrush at Headquarters, Pueblo County. Julie reported on what the
banding station had today in El Paso County.
Thanks for trying to keep sightings at Chico Basin Ranch, organized by
counties.
Brandon K. Percival
Sent from my Phone
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Date: 5/19/26 4:55 pm From: 'Tony Leukering' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] ID help please! Juvie Peregrine or a Prairie Falcon?
Note that the wingtips extend beyond the tail tip, a feature not true for
Prairie or Peregrine, particularly for the shorter-winged juveniles.
Tony Leukering
On Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at 5:35:36 PM UTC-6 Tony Leukering wrote:
> As suggested to me by Dave Leatherman, that looks more like an Eurasian
> Hobby. I've sent a screen grab to a Brit friend in Connecticut for his
> opinion.
>
> Tony Leukering
> Cut Bank, MT
>
> On Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at 4:25:47 PM UTC-6 Peter Ruprecht wrote:
>
>> I'd go with immature Peregrine. The malar is too wide for a Prairie, and
>> I'd expect a Prairie of any age to have a more distinct light supercilium.
>>
>> Peter Ruprecht
>> Superior
>>
>> On Tue, May 19, 2026 at 3:37 PM <jay......> wrote:
>>
>>> All:
>>>
>>> I'm a bit stumped on this ID. Seen this morning in a filed just north
>>> of Union Res in Weld Co. Bird was sitting in the field for 10+minutes and
>>> I got a few pics from scope.
>>>
>>> So I figure it's either a juvenille Peregrine or a Prairie Falcon.
>>> Obvious dark mustache, white cheeks and throat.
>>>
>>> Please comment away!
>>>
>>> Jay Hutchins
>>> Longmont
>>>
>>> [image: image0.jpeg][image: image1.jpeg][image: image2.jpeg][image:
>>> image3.jpeg]
>>>
>>>
>>> Sent from my iPhone
>>>
>>> --
>>> --
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Date: 5/19/26 4:35 pm From: 'Tony Leukering' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] ID help please! Juvie Peregrine or a Prairie Falcon?
As suggested to me by Dave Leatherman, that looks more like an Eurasian
Hobby. I've sent a screen grab to a Brit friend in Connecticut for his
opinion.
Tony Leukering
Cut Bank, MT
On Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at 4:25:47 PM UTC-6 Peter Ruprecht wrote:
> I'd go with immature Peregrine. The malar is too wide for a Prairie, and
> I'd expect a Prairie of any age to have a more distinct light supercilium.
>
> Peter Ruprecht
> Superior
>
> On Tue, May 19, 2026 at 3:37 PM <jay......> wrote:
>
>> All:
>>
>> I'm a bit stumped on this ID. Seen this morning in a filed just north of
>> Union Res in Weld Co. Bird was sitting in the field for 10+minutes and I
>> got a few pics from scope.
>>
>> So I figure it's either a juvenille Peregrine or a Prairie Falcon.
>> Obvious dark mustache, white cheeks and throat.
>>
>> Please comment away!
>>
>> Jay Hutchins
>> Longmont
>>
>> [image: image0.jpeg][image: image1.jpeg][image: image2.jpeg][image:
>> image3.jpeg]
>>
>>
>> Sent from my iPhone
>>
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>>
>
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Date: 5/19/26 3:25 pm From: Peter Ruprecht <pruprecht...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] ID help please! Juvie Peregrine or a Prairie Falcon?
I'd go with immature Peregrine. The malar is too wide for a Prairie, and
I'd expect a Prairie of any age to have a more distinct light supercilium.
Peter Ruprecht
Superior
On Tue, May 19, 2026 at 3:37 PM <jay1125...> wrote:
> All:
>
> I'm a bit stumped on this ID. Seen this morning in a filed just north of
> Union Res in Weld Co. Bird was sitting in the field for 10+minutes and I
> got a few pics from scope.
>
> So I figure it's either a juvenille Peregrine or a Prairie Falcon. Obvious
> dark mustache, white cheeks and throat.
>
> Please comment away!
>
> Jay Hutchins
> Longmont
>
> [image: image0.jpeg][image: image1.jpeg][image: image2.jpeg][image:
> image3.jpeg]
>
>
> Sent from my iPhone
>
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Date: 5/19/26 2:58 pm From: Chicobander <jshieldcastle...> Subject: [cobirds] Chico Basin Ranch Banding Station Report- May 19, 2026-Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
If it is raining in your neck of the woods, it most likely will not be raining at Chico Basin Ranch at least the El Paso County side. I probably just jinxed that fact. HA! Anyhow, despite rain and snow flurries everywhere else or so it seemed from what the volunteers and birders told me, it was not raining or snowing at sunrise nor did it during the morning at all. Tomorrow may be another story but right now, it doesn't look like any rain at sunrise. Twenty-three bird species were captured including five species of warbler including: Wilson's, Yellow, MacGillivray's, Audubon's Yellow-rumped Warblers and two Northern Waterthrush. An Ovenbird sang off an on all morning near the banding building. We also caught a Warbling Vireo, took its measurements to help distinguish between Western and Eastern Warbling Vireos. The measurements did not help us to differentiate. However, when getting photos of the bird, it sang a little ad when it was released it flew to a nearby branch and sang a Western song (Had a little twang it its song- just kidding). So a Western Vireo it was! Thank you Bird for singing for us.
*3 Recaptures* American Redstart- gained almost a grams since yesterday! Hermit Thrush Bullock's Oriole
The Banding station will be open tomorrow weather dependent at sunrise until @ 11 AM. Please stop by the banding station and share your sightings with us. We would love to hear about them. Please sign up on the Aiken Audubon website if wanting to bird the ranch. www.aikenaudubon.com. Also remember cell service is very poor out there so download the map or stop by the banding station and look at the laminated map we have to get your bearings while driving around the ranch.
Enjoy the Day,
Julie Shieldcastle Bander, Chico Basin Ranch Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
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Date: 5/19/26 2:44 pm From: Pauli Driver-Smith <hollyhockfarms...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] Dead swalow- Longmont
I've only seen one Violet-green swallow here in Highlandlake and that was several years ago. It also appeared to just fall out of the sky - dead. They are such beautiful birds.
I haven't seen any swallows of any kind here this year. It is strange, we live on a lake and there are plenty of nesting areas that they have come back to year after year. I wonder what happened to them?
Pauli Smith
Highlandlake/Mead, Weld, CO
________________________________
From: <cobirds...> <cobirds...> on behalf of David Hyde <davidhyde1951...>
Sent: Tuesday, May 19, 2026 1:20 PM
To: Charlie Chase <charlesachase3...>; Colorado Birds <cobirds...>
Subject: Re: [cobirds] Dead swalow- Longmont
Thank you all for what to do with this swallow. i shall freeze it and note details and take it to Emily Braker at the UC Boulder Museum. This is closer to me than Denver. An interesting thing about this dead Violet-green swallow is that there were (are) hundreds of Barn Swallows and Cliff swallows, a few Tree swallows around the lake and NO Violet-green swallows except this dead and still warm one which was on the grass near the monument on the south side of Lake McIntosh. And I never see VG swallows on this lake before... Last year I found a dead Raven closeby this spot and it, too, was still warm and in perfect condition. I wasn't able to keep it (I've been warned by my fam before about keeping dead birds in the fridge...), but that's two perfectly healthy looking birds just falling out of the sky! Thanks again - Dave/Longmont
Here's a photo of the swallow on the Lake McIntosh monument:
[P1190321.JPG]
On Tue, May 19, 2026 at 12:24 PM Charlie Chase <charlesachase3...><mailto:<charlesachase3...>> wrote:
I sent him a personal message already-- thanks for forwarding this. Had him contact DNMH Zoology Dept.
On Tue, May 19, 2026 at 12:10 PM Susan Rosine <u5b2mtdna...><mailto:<u5b2mtdna...>> wrote:
I've copied Charlie Chase on this. He may know of a place that will take it.
Susan Rosine
On Tue, May 19, 2026, 10:43 AM David Hyde <davidhyde1951...><mailto:<davidhyde1951...>> wrote:
Walking along the edge of Lake McIntosh in Longmont just now I spotted hundreds of different swallows on the ground and in the air. And I found this dead one, which I think is a Violet-green swallow. It was just lying on the ground, sill warm and bright eyed. I brought it home. My question is, is there anyone who wants a dead swallow or what should I do with it? -- Dave Hyde/Longmont
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Date: 5/19/26 2:37 pm From: <jay1125...> Subject: [cobirds] ID help please! Juvie Peregrine or a Prairie Falcon?
All:
I'm a bit stumped on this ID. Seen this morning in a filed just north of Union Res in Weld Co. Bird was sitting in the field for 10+minutes and I got a few pics from scope.
So I figure it's either a juvenille Peregrine or a Prairie Falcon. Obvious dark mustache, white cheeks and throat.
Please comment away!
Jay Hutchins Longmont
Sent from my iPhone
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Date: 5/19/26 12:21 pm From: David Hyde <davidhyde1951...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] Dead swalow- Longmont
Thank you all for what to do with this swallow. i shall freeze it and note
details and take it to Emily Braker at the UC Boulder Museum. This is
closer to me than Denver. An interesting thing about this dead Violet-green
swallow is that there were (are) hundreds of Barn Swallows and Cliff
swallows, a few Tree swallows around the lake and NO Violet-green swallows
except this dead and still warm one which was on the grass near the
monument on the south side of Lake McIntosh. And I never see VG swallows on
this lake before... Last year I found a dead Raven closeby this spot and
it, too, was still warm and in perfect condition. I wasn't able to keep it
(I've been warned by my fam before about keeping dead birds in the
fridge...), but that's two perfectly healthy looking birds just falling out
of the sky! Thanks again - Dave/Longmont
Here's a photo of the swallow on the Lake McIntosh monument:
[image: P1190321.JPG]
On Tue, May 19, 2026 at 12:24 PM Charlie Chase <charlesachase3...>
wrote:
> I sent him a personal message already-- thanks for forwarding this. Had
> him contact DNMH Zoology Dept.
>
> Cheers
> C
>
>
>
>
> On Tue, May 19, 2026 at 12:10 PM Susan Rosine <u5b2mtdna...> wrote:
>
>> I've copied Charlie Chase on this. He may know of a place that will take
>> it.
>>
>> Susan Rosine
>>
>> On Tue, May 19, 2026, 10:43 AM David Hyde <davidhyde1951...>
>> wrote:
>>
>>> Walking along the edge of Lake McIntosh in Longmont just now I spotted
>>> hundreds of different swallows on the ground and in the air. And I found
>>> this dead one, which I think is a Violet-green swallow. It was just lying
>>> on the ground, sill warm and bright eyed. I brought it home. My question
>>> is, is there anyone who wants a dead swallow or what should I do with it?
>>> -- Dave Hyde/Longmont
>>>
>>> --
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>>>
>>
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Date: 5/19/26 9:43 am From: David Hyde <davidhyde1951...> Subject: [cobirds] Dead swalow- Longmont
Walking along the edge of Lake McIntosh in Longmont just now I spotted hundreds of different swallows on the ground and in the air. And I found this dead one, which I think is a Violet-green swallow. It was just lying on the ground, sill warm and bright eyed. I brought it home. My question is, is there anyone who wants a dead swallow or what should I do with it? -- Dave Hyde/Longmont
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A hooded oriole visited our feeders yesterday. Littleton, Douglas County
Sent from my iPad
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Date: 5/18/26 9:46 pm From: linda hodges <hikerhodges...> Subject: [cobirds] Chico cattle update El Paso/Pueblo Counties
Greetings, birders,
If you're headed to Chico Basin Ranch in the next 2 weeks, please be aware that cattle will be pastured in an area including the Banding Station parking area.
The cattle will move out of the way if you drive slowly toward them, and they won't harm you, but if you're nervous around them, you may drive through the gate on the north side of the Banding Station area and park near the banding station.
Remember that we're limited to parking in only 3 locations: the Banding Station, HQ pond (please do NOT drive into the HQ parking area, but continue south and park in the grass near the pond), and Rose Pond (further south on the main road). Please do not drive to any other area of the ranch.
We are working on getting additional signage up to help guide birders.
If you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact me.
Linda Hodges Aiken Audubon
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Date: 5/18/26 4:26 pm From: 'Linda Andes-Georges' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] letting go ! (re my Eco-steward trails in the Boulder/Lyons area)
Dear folks:
I've reached my limits in hiking long or challenging trails to survey birds, butterflies, plants (often weeds) as well as recreation use.
My limits are physical and certainly not boredom or discouragement.
I have loved surveying these trails several times in each avian breeding season: before (May), during (June) and after (July). I've taken notes on all the aspects mentioned above, learned much, and found many observations useful in giving input to the decision-makers who oversee the condition of the areas. (This data collection has really come in handy when management of our areas is up for discussion by various boards).
I especially treasured the early morning hours when I had these popular trails to myself and the owls or poorwills, and often the turkeys and deer.
If anyone out there would be interested in assuming these surveys, and making a season's-end report to the compiler, I guarantee satisfaction of many kinds. The 30+ Ecostewards that have accepted to do these surveys and report on them have been doing so for a couple of decades under the auspices of Boulder County Nature Association. Steve Jones has been our inspiration, mentor and compiler. The objective was simply to monitor all the aspects we felt capable of surveying, and turning in reports at season's end.
Here are "my" trails/areas in question:
PICTURE ROCK TRAIL from south Lyons to 4 or 5 miles further south. Long, slow rolling hike with superb views for the first hour or so, then ascending to wooded hillside savannas with a different habitat for both birds & plants. Many butterfly species; delightful botanical variety--gorgeous grasses. Few hikers; scattered long-distance runners; but mostly bikers unless you go early in the morning during the week. Often I saw almost no bikers! In order to get more data on users, I had to do a hike on popular weekends.... For the most part, cyclists were polite and in compliance with trail use regs.
GREGORY CANYON from Boulder TH on Flagstaff to the "top" and then down to the shady trails on the west side. This has always been a great site for interesting accidentals (birds or animals you do NOT expect to find), including once a pair of bikers who were trying to get to the 5-Points area on a trail that is in no way a good (or legal) one for bike use. It is a steep and rocky hike of about 3 miles out and back, but interesting in so many ways--you'll have to call me to learn more. I've seen/heard Blue-headed Vireos, Saw-whet Owls, Scarlet Tanagers, Kentucky Warblers & others but the typical residents are multiple and vocal. It's a gem, this hike.
Please contact me (PM/DM) off listserv to learn more. The assignment will enrich your life!
Linda Andes-Georges
central Boulder County in shortgrass prairie beside Table Mountain
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Date: 5/18/26 1:33 pm From: Suzanne Schwartze <birdmom1017...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] Chico Basin Ranch Banding Station Report- May 18, 2026-Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
Wow!!!!!!!
Rest up for tomorrow!
On Mon, May 18, 2026, 2:20 PM Chicobander <jshieldcastle...> wrote:
> The weather may have not been pleasant today- It was a little brisk at
> times. It appeared that the storms up north helped drop some birds into the
> banding woods today. Twenty-four bird species captured and five new species
> for the year (American Redstart, Least, Hammond's, and Willow Flycatchers,
> Western Wood-pewee, and Warbling Vireo).
>
> The Warbling Vireo has been split into Eastern and Western Warbling Vireo.
> Unless it sings for me, I have to band it as unknown Warbling Vireo. We are
> taking measurements and Tail feathers for DNA work to hopefully have
> someone work up the Warbling Vireo data to help us banders distinguish
> between the Eastern and Western Warbling Vireos. We can catch both here at
> the station. We do not catch many in a season but hope in the future more
> morphometrics will help determine between the two.
>
> As you can tell from the banding data below, we had several flocks of
> American goldfinches flying through the banding area this morning. We are
> still catching Hermit Thrushes as well. Two Ovenbirds graced us with their
> presence in the nets and one continued to sing near the building off and on
> during the morning.
>
> *97 New Banded Birds*
> Wilson's Warbler- 5
> Yellow Warbler- 12
> American Redstart- 1
> MacGillivray's Warbler- 5
> Ovenbird- 2
> Common Yellowthroat- 1
> Audubon's Yellow-rumped Warbler- 1
> Warbling Vireo- 1
> Western Flycatcher- 3
> Western Wood-Pewee- 3
> Least Flycatcher- 1
> Hammond's Flycatcher- 2
> Willow Flycatcher- 1
> American Goldfinch- 22
> Lincoln's Sparrow- 7
> Lazuli Bunting- 4
> House Finch- 1
> Yellow-breasted Chat- 1
> Western Tanager- 3
> Hermit Thrush -5
> Swainson's Thrush- 7
> Black-headed Grosbeak- 2
> Gray Catbird- 2
> Bullock's Oriole- 5
>
> *5 Recaptures*
> Bullock's Oriole- 3 - one of these lost weight but since they are breeding
> here they are expending energy fighting for mates, etc.
> American Goldfinch- 1
> Yellow Warbler- 1
>
> *1 Return*
> Yellow Warbler male banded last year as a Second-year male on May 17th.
> Returned to the same area to breed again!
>
> The Banding station will be open tomorrow through Saturday weather
> permitting from sunrise until @ 11AM. Remember if you want to bird the
> ranch to please register on the Aiken Audubon Website www.aikenaudubon.com
> .
> Also if you have never birded the ranch make sure you look at the map
> provided on the website OR come to the banding station to see the posted
> map in the building. We have had quite a few new birders to the ranch this
> past week and they have wandered into areas of private residences. We need
> to be cognizant of the map and where you can bird. We do not want to upset
> the ranchers and have our privileges revoked.
> Thank you.
> Also, gates around the banding building need to be closed after entry as
> cattle is now grazing outside the woods around banding station.
> Stop by the Banding station to share your sightings. We would love to hear
> them!
>
> Have a good day,
>
> Julie Shieldcastle
> Bander, Chico Basin Ranch
> Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
>
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Date: 5/18/26 1:20 pm From: Chicobander <jshieldcastle...> Subject: [cobirds] Chico Basin Ranch Banding Station Report- May 18, 2026-Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
The weather may have not been pleasant today- It was a little brisk at times. It appeared that the storms up north helped drop some birds into the banding woods today. Twenty-four bird species captured and five new species for the year (American Redstart, Least, Hammond's, and Willow Flycatchers, Western Wood-pewee, and Warbling Vireo).
The Warbling Vireo has been split into Eastern and Western Warbling Vireo. Unless it sings for me, I have to band it as unknown Warbling Vireo. We are taking measurements and Tail feathers for DNA work to hopefully have someone work up the Warbling Vireo data to help us banders distinguish between the Eastern and Western Warbling Vireos. We can catch both here at the station. We do not catch many in a season but hope in the future more morphometrics will help determine between the two.
As you can tell from the banding data below, we had several flocks of American goldfinches flying through the banding area this morning. We are still catching Hermit Thrushes as well. Two Ovenbirds graced us with their presence in the nets and one continued to sing near the building off and on during the morning.
*97 New Banded Birds* Wilson's Warbler- 5 Yellow Warbler- 12 American Redstart- 1 MacGillivray's Warbler- 5 Ovenbird- 2 Common Yellowthroat- 1 Audubon's Yellow-rumped Warbler- 1 Warbling Vireo- 1 Western Flycatcher- 3 Western Wood-Pewee- 3 Least Flycatcher- 1 Hammond's Flycatcher- 2 Willow Flycatcher- 1 American Goldfinch- 22 Lincoln's Sparrow- 7 Lazuli Bunting- 4 House Finch- 1 Yellow-breasted Chat- 1 Western Tanager- 3 Hermit Thrush -5 Swainson's Thrush- 7 Black-headed Grosbeak- 2 Gray Catbird- 2 Bullock's Oriole- 5
*5 Recaptures* Bullock's Oriole- 3 - one of these lost weight but since they are breeding here they are expending energy fighting for mates, etc. American Goldfinch- 1 Yellow Warbler- 1
*1 Return* Yellow Warbler male banded last year as a Second-year male on May 17th. Returned to the same area to breed again!
The Banding station will be open tomorrow through Saturday weather permitting from sunrise until @ 11AM. Remember if you want to bird the ranch to please register on the Aiken Audubon Website www.aikenaudubon.com. Also if you have never birded the ranch make sure you look at the map provided on the website OR come to the banding station to see the posted map in the building. We have had quite a few new birders to the ranch this past week and they have wandered into areas of private residences. We need to be cognizant of the map and where you can bird. We do not want to upset the ranchers and have our privileges revoked. Thank you. Also, gates around the banding building need to be closed after entry as cattle is now grazing outside the woods around banding station. Stop by the Banding station to share your sightings. We would love to hear them!
Have a good day,
Julie Shieldcastle Bander, Chico Basin Ranch Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
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Date: 5/18/26 11:04 am From: Steven Brown <sbrown37...> Subject: [cobirds] A Big Day at CSR banding, El Paso Co, Mon
Hey COBirders,
I was hopeful that the mixed forecasts we got might mean we’d get some birds at Clear Spring Ranch today. It did.
While it was wet in COS at dawn, CSR was dusty dry. Low clouds all morning, and a helpful breeze kept birds arriving throughout the morning, new, and many returning birds as well. 55 birds netted today.
I closed at 10:30 as forecasts showed rain was likely after that, and I didn’t want to take a chance getting caught with full nets up, and the possibility of wet birds. It worked out fins.
Highlights today:
FOS Dusky Flycatcher - 2
FOS Magnolia Warbler (SY M)
FOW American Redstart (AD F)
Yellow Warbler -10 (including a wave of 5 in one net at 9:00, and 2 returns)
Com Yellowthroat - 8, (including 2 returns from previous years)
MacGillivray’s Warbler - 3
Wilson’s Warbler - 2
Lincoln’s Sparrow - 8
Mountain White-crowned Sparrow - 3
Lazuli Bunting - 4
Gray Catbird - 5 (including 2 returns)
and netted, but unbanded - Broad-tailed Hummingbird (AD M), and Black-chinned Hummingbird (AD F).
BTW, this also the anniversary of my best/most fun/busiest day banding - May 18, 2008, at Chico Basin Ranch, on a day much like today, only mistier, and breezier, Brian Gibbons and I banded 240 birds, including 140 Swainson’s Thrush. We started at dawn, closed nets at 3:30, and finished banding the last birds about 5:00, with no breaks. It was busy! The haul also included 8 Blackpoll Warblers, a pretty high number for Colorado. Yeah, I really look forward to these May days!
Happy Migration,
Steve Brown
Colo SPgs
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Date: 5/18/26 9:14 am From: 'Meredith McBurney' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Chatfield Banding Station, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies 5-17-26
We ended our third week yesterday, with more of the regulars; lots of Yellow Warblers and Catbirds, no new species. It is great to be off today when it is raining so nicely!
Here are the 31 new and 5 returns from Sunday:
Western Wood-Pewee 2 Black-capped Chickadee 1 new, 2 returns, both banded last fall (our first ever fall banding at Chatfield) Northern House Wren 1 new, 1 banded 2024, recaught 2025 Gray Catbird 12 new, 1 banded 2025 Yellow Warbler 8 new, 1 banded 2025 MacGillivray's Warbler 1 Common Yellowthroat 2 Wilson's Warbler 1 Yellow-breasted Chat 1 Song Sparrow 1 White-crowned Sparrow, Mountain 1
We are banding Tuesday through Sunday (closed Mondays) through May 31, weather permitting. There are opportunities for the public to visit on weekends and early mornings most weekdays. Reservations are required and can be made through the Denver Audubon website <https://www.denveraudubon.org/calendar>. (Many/most sessions are already sold out, so sign up now if you are interested!)
Meredith McBurney Bander, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
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Date: 5/17/26 7:41 pm From: David Suddjian <dsuddjian...> Subject: [cobirds] New BIRD BOMBS video available, and register for the next one!
Hi CoBirders,
The video of DFO's newest *BIRD BOMBS Knock on wood <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=suahN1BjHTY>* is now available for viewing. Learn about identification of Colorado's woodpeckers.
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Date: 5/17/26 3:12 pm From: Wayne Wathen <wwathen...> Subject: [cobirds] Re: recent food-related bird observations in Lamar area
Thank you so much for going through all this trouble with as always great information and photos. It is much appreciated!
Get Outlook for iOS<https://aka.ms/o0ukef> ________________________________
From: <cobirds...> <cobirds...> on behalf of DAVID A LEATHERMAN <daleatherman...>
Sent: Sunday, May 17, 2026 3:22:17 PM
To: <cobirds...> <cobirds...>
Subject: [cobirds] recent food-related bird observations in Lamar area
I recently had the privilege of being in Lamar for the period of April 29-May 15. Of course, I sought “good” birds but could amuse myself with “hungry bird” issues when species worthy of an “alert” weren’t known. As we all know this has been a very strange year of weather so far. The winter was unusually mild with very little snow fall or extreme cold. Many trees and other plants leafed out early. In their haste, some got “burned” with freezes (netleaf hackberry below the dam at Two Buttes is a good example) but most got away with it and are advanced in development for the date and look good. This can have some cons for birds. Warm conditions trigger altered phenology in the plants and can also lead to altered phenology in the insects these trees support. Food items migrants historically depend on might not be available when the birds pass thru. The gall-making psyllids in hackberry are a good example. The overwintering adults emerged early this year. Enroute from bark crevices to lay eggs on hackberry buds, they are normally fare for migrant birds. This year the adults were long gone and their offspring entrenched within leaves by the time of peak neotropical bird migration.
The following are a few bird/food highlights from Lamar of late.
1. Early in the visit, honeylocust (Gleditsia triacanthos) was the tree of choice for neotropical migrants. Goodies included a Northern Parula and the best bird on Earth, Blackburnian Warbler. Net-sampling of honeylocusts at Fairmount Cemetery revealed the attractions as honeylocust leafhopper Macropsis fumipennis) that feeds on the leaves and an unidentified plant bug (family Miridae) associated with the flowers.
2. At this time of years, if allocated runs of water, local farmers flood-irrigate their hay (alfalfa) fields. The water flushes insects to the surface that become an ephemeral banquet for many types of birds. This was discovered by Brandon Percival along SR196 just e of Prowers CR10 on May 1. Notables in this field were a Hudsonian Godwit, Hudsonian Whimbrel, two Marbled Godwits, many other shorebird species, Cattle Egrets, many White-faced Ibis, a Glossy Ibis, ducks, gulls and blackbirds.
3. Starting about May 9, a big push of pass-thru migrants discovered currant psyllids (Cacopsylla ribesiae) on golden currants (Ribes aureum) in the understory of the Lamar Community College Woods. Glenn, Steve and many other birders found Mourning, Blackpoll, Magnolia, Bay-breasted, Northern Parula, Tennessee and at least 6 other warbler species plus Clay-colored Sparrows and Swainson’s Thrushes in good numbers down in the currant understory. My take on this is that the currant psyllids are doing better than usual this spring and other insects, especially those in the cottonwood and hackberry overstory, are in short supply.
[cid:<image001.jpg...>]
Eastern Towhee female scratching for old Russian-olive seeds along north short of Lake Hasty on April 30.
[cid:<image002.jpg...>]
Wilson’s Phalarope giving a freshly-emerged adult psyllid 10 seconds of newly-experienced life above the water surface before snapping it up.
[cid:<image012.jpg...>]
Molting male Summer Tanager discovered by Brandon Percival at Riverside Cemetery on May 1 eating a common green darner it found in a juniper.
[cid:<image003.jpg...>]
Great Plains camel cricket (Daihinia brevipes), one of 20 camel crickets of two species, found impaled by Loggerhead Shrike along the Lamar Truck Bypass on May 1.
Blackburnina Warbler feeding on insects in honeylocust at Fairmount Cemetery on 2 May. The leafhopper and plant bug were its primary quarries. A Northern Parula, several Yellow-rumped Warblers, Orange-crowned Warblers and Yellow Warblers did the same.
[cid:<image013.jpg...>] [cid:<image008.jpg...>]
Loggerhead Shrike-impaled common striped bark scorpion (Centruroides vittatus) and American bumble bee (Bombus pensylvanicus) found along Bent CR JJ west of Hasty on May 5. Both of these are new to my personal experience involving thousands of shrike-impaled prey items on the eastern plains of CO. Every time I see a nocturnal creature like the scorpion on a fence, I wonder how the shrike finds it. Do the activities of nocturnal and diurnal animals overlap at dawn and dusk? Do shrikes flip debris like small, dry cowpies to find things hiding under it? Do shrikes use headlamps and blacklights at night?
[cid:<image009.jpg...>]
Currant psyllids of mixed life stages (note adult at lower left) on the underside of a golden currant leaf. The white material is wax extruded from the rear ends of nymphs. These sap-sucking insects also excrete sugary honeydew which is attractive to an additional bird food item, ants.
[cid:<image010.jpg...>] [cid:<image011.jpg...>]
At left, male Blackpoll Warbler hunting currant psyllids at the LCC Woods on May 10, 2026. At right, male Bay-breasted Warbler hunting currant psyllids at the LCC Wood on May 13, 2026.
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Date: 5/17/26 2:28 pm From: DAVID A LEATHERMAN <daleatherman...> Subject: [cobirds] recent posts to COBIRDS
I spent about 4 hours composing a post to COBIRDS this morning and then received a message from GoogleGroups that it couldn't be sent because it was too big. After a bleep-punctuated period of frustration that my apartment neighbors probably overheard, I sat down and composed a smaller one. Now I see that BOTH posts went out. Sorry for the duplication but it's not my fault.
Dave Leatherman
Fort Collins
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Date: 5/17/26 2:22 pm From: DAVID A LEATHERMAN <daleatherman...> Subject: [cobirds] recent food-related bird observations in Lamar area
I recently had the privilege of being in Lamar for the period of April 29-May 15. Of course, I sought "good" birds but could amuse myself with "hungry bird" issues when species worthy of an "alert" weren't known. As we all know this has been a very strange year of weather so far. The winter was unusually mild with very little snow fall or extreme cold. Many trees and other plants leafed out early. In their haste, some got "burned" with freezes (netleaf hackberry below the dam at Two Buttes is a good example) but most got away with it and are advanced in development for the date and look good. This can have some cons for birds. Warm conditions trigger altered phenology in the plants and can also lead to altered phenology in the insects these trees support. Food items migrants historically depend on might not be available when the birds pass thru. The gall-making psyllids in hackberry are a good example. The overwintering adults emerged early this year. Enroute from bark crevices to lay eggs on hackberry buds, they are normally fare for migrant birds. This year the adults were long gone and their offspring entrenched within leaves by the time of peak neotropical bird migration.
The following are a few bird/food highlights from Lamar of late.
1. Early in the visit, honeylocust (Gleditsia triacanthos) was the tree of choice for neotropical migrants. Goodies included a Northern Parula and the best bird on Earth, Blackburnian Warbler. Net-sampling of honeylocusts at Fairmount Cemetery revealed the attractions as honeylocust leafhopper Macropsis fumipennis) that feeds on the leaves and an unidentified plant bug (family Miridae) associated with the flowers.
2. At this time of years, if allocated runs of water, local farmers flood-irrigate their hay (alfalfa) fields. The water flushes insects to the surface that become an ephemeral banquet for many types of birds. This was discovered by Brandon Percival along SR196 just e of Prowers CR10 on May 1. Notables in this field were a Hudsonian Godwit, Hudsonian Whimbrel, two Marbled Godwits, many other shorebird species, Cattle Egrets, many White-faced Ibis, a Glossy Ibis, ducks, gulls and blackbirds.
3. Starting about May 9, a big push of pass-thru migrants discovered currant psyllids (Cacopsylla ribesiae) on golden currants (Ribes aureum) in the understory of the Lamar Community College Woods. Glenn, Steve and many other birders found Mourning, Blackpoll, Magnolia, Bay-breasted, Northern Parula, Tennessee and at least 6 other warbler species plus Clay-colored Sparrows and Swainson's Thrushes in good numbers down in the currant understory. My take on this is that the currant psyllids are doing better than usual this spring and other insects, especially those in the cottonwood and hackberry overstory, are in short supply.
[cid:<image001.jpg...>]
Eastern Towhee female scratching for old Russian-olive seeds along north short of Lake Hasty on April 30.
[cid:<image002.jpg...>]
Wilson's Phalarope giving a freshly-emerged adult psyllid 10 seconds of newly-experienced life above the water surface before snapping it up.
[cid:<image012.jpg...>]
Molting male Summer Tanager discovered by Brandon Percival at Riverside Cemetery on May 1 eating a common green darner it found in a juniper.
[cid:<image003.jpg...>]
Great Plains camel cricket (Daihinia brevipes), one of 20 camel crickets of two species, found impaled by Loggerhead Shrike along the Lamar Truck Bypass on May 1.
[cid:<image004.jpg...>][cid:<image005.jpg...>] [cid:<image006.jpg...>]
Blackburnina Warbler feeding on insects in honeylocust at Fairmount Cemetery on 2 May. The leafhopper and plant bug were its primary quarries. A Northern Parula, several Yellow-rumped Warblers, Orange-crowned Warblers and Yellow Warblers did the same.
[cid:<image013.jpg...>] [cid:<image008.jpg...>]
Loggerhead Shrike-impaled common striped bark scorpion (Centruroides vittatus) and American bumble bee (Bombus pensylvanicus) found along Bent CR JJ west of Hasty on May 5. Both of these are new to my personal experience involving thousands of shrike-impaled prey items on the eastern plains of CO. Every time I see a nocturnal creature like the scorpion on a fence, I wonder how the shrike finds it. Do the activities of nocturnal and diurnal animals overlap at dawn and dusk? Do shrikes flip debris like small, dry cowpies to find things hiding under it? Do shrikes use headlamps and blacklights at night?
[cid:<image009.jpg...>]
Currant psyllids of mixed life stages (note adult at lower left) on the underside of a golden currant leaf. The white material is wax extruded from the rear ends of nymphs. These sap-sucking insects also excrete sugary honeydew which is attractive to an additional bird food item, ants.
[cid:<image010.jpg...>] [cid:<image011.jpg...>]
At left, male Blackpoll Warbler hunting currant psyllids at the LCC Woods on May 10, 2026. At right, male Bay-breasted Warbler hunting currant psyllids at the LCC Wood on May 13, 2026.
Dave Leatherman
Fort Collins
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Date: 5/17/26 8:18 am From: Rick Reeser <rcreeser...> Subject: [cobirds] Glenmere Park, Greeley
I stopped at Glenmere Park and scanned the island carefully and saw at least 6 black crowned night herons hiding in the trees, mostly on the east side. I did not find any snowy egrets as in past years. Rick Reeser Milliken
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Date: 5/17/26 7:42 am From: <jay1125...> Subject: [cobirds] Snowy & black-bellied lovers at Union Res., Weld.Co.
One of each of the above in the NW corner of Union Res as of 8:30 am this morning.
Jay Hutchins Longmont
Sent from my iPhone
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Date: 5/17/26 3:34 am From: 'Andrews Robert' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] American Golden Plover, Weld Co.
Hello all,
On Saturday afternoon (May 16), there was an American Golden Plover in breeding plumage at the Road 59 wetlands near Kersey, Weld Co. It was in the grass near the pond on the west side of Rd. 59. A Killdeer chased it and it flew away, but did not seem to go far, so it may still be in the area. Distant photos in low light were taken.
eBird checklist link here: https://ebird.org/checklist/S340678577
Bob Andrews
Yekepa, Nimba Co., Liberia, West Africa
Currently in Centennial, Arapahoe Co., Colorado
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Date: 5/16/26 4:52 pm From: 'Meredith McBurney' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Chatfield Banding Station, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies 5-16-26
The morning started fast - our first 2 American Redstarts of the season didn't even give us time to get the first net on the river fully open before getting caught. The male was banded last year, the female new; so neither are among the older ones that we have been catching the past few years. Hope for more soon. About 15 minutes later we caught a Cooper's Hawk, the first and probably only hawk of the season.
Things settled down after that, and we had a day pretty similar to the last few - a mix of the usual suspects for this time of year, wondering where the flycatchers are.......
28 new birds and 3 returns of 14 species:
Cooper's Hawk 1, young male Northern House Wren 1 Swainson's Thrush 1 Hermit Thrush 1 Gray Catbird 7 new, 1 banded 2025 Yellow Warbler 3 new, 1 banded 2025 American Redstart 1 new, 1 banded 2025 MacGillivray's Warbler 1 Common Yellowthroat 1 Yellow-breasted Chat 3 Spotted Towhee 2 Song Sparrow 2 Lincoln's Sparrow 3 American Goldfinch 1
We are banding Tuesday through Sunday (closed Mondays) through May 31, weather permitting. There are opportunities for the public to visit on weekends and early mornings most weekdays. Reservations are required and can be made through the Denver Audubon website <https://www.denveraudubon.org/calendar>. (Many/most sessions are already sold out, so sign up now if you are interested!)
Meredith McBurney Bander, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
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Date: 5/16/26 12:12 pm From: Chicobander <jshieldcastle...> Subject: [cobirds] Chico Basin Ranch Banding Station Report- May 16, 2026-Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
Another north wind overnight and during the morning did not bring any birds into the banding woods. Most of the captures were resident species. We did catch a Lark Sparrow which was a first of the year. She already had a brood patch forming so she will be nesting in the nearby grassland. We finally caught a thrush the last net check of the day- Hermit Thrush. The Northern House Wren and Lazuli Bunting were banded last year and returned to the same breeding area again this year. *15 New Banded Birds* Common Yellowthroat-2 MacGillivray's Warbler- 1 American Goldfinch- 6 Lazuli Bunting- 3 Bullock's Oriole- 1 Hermit Thrush- 1 Lark Sparrow- 1
*2 Returns (Banded last year)* Northern House Wren Lazuli Bunting
The Banding station will be closed tomorrow and reopen on Monday at sunrise. I am hoping the weather doesn't change- looks to be a SE wind Monday. Fingers crossed. To bird on the ranch, please register online at www.aikenaudubon.com. Remember to leave gates as you found them. Gates around the banding station need to be closed as they will be grazing cattle outside the banding area. The white rope fencing is electrified surrounding the woods at banding station. You can access the woods by entering the 4 fence gates (wooden fence) at banding station area.
Have a good weekend,
Julie Shieldcastle Bander, Chico Basin Ranch Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
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Date: 5/15/26 5:43 pm From: 'Meredith McBurney' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Chatfield Banding Station, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies 5-15-26
Today was about Catbirds - 15 new, 1 return. This is the species that for the first time last year was our most caught species (122, compared with 120 Yellow Warblers, our normal #1 species). Seems to be working on being #1 for a second year!
Totals for the day were 26 newly banded plus 5 returns; a fairly short list of species:
We are banding Tuesday through Sunday (closed Mondays) through May 31, weather permitting. There are opportunities for the public to visit on weekends and early mornings most weekdays. Reservations are required and can be made through the Denver Audubon website <https://www.denveraudubon.org/calendar>. (Many/most sessions are already sold out, so sign up now if you are interested!)
Meredith McBurney Bander, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
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Date: 5/15/26 3:35 pm From: Robert Righter <rorighter...> Subject: [cobirds] Common Nighthawk captured in downtown Denver
Hi
Just heard from Steve Weil, owner of Rockmont Ranchware in Downtown Denver, that a Common Nighthawk flew into his store and found refuge in the stores rafters. Several agency were called to help including DOW. Finally after various bird professionals using ladders, climbing from rafter to rafter the night hawk was safely captured and released safely into the wild.
Bob Righter Denver
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Date: 5/15/26 2:28 pm From: Chicobander <jshieldcastle...> Subject: [cobirds] Chico Basin Ranch Banding Station Report- May 15, 2026-Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
A quiet morning for birds on the front range here at Chico Basin Ranch. Some nice birds but still no quantity. Swainson's Thrushes appeared again today. It must have been my singing that brought them in. HA! The highlight of the day was a Veery caught first net check.
*20 New Banded Birds* Yellow Warbler- 1 MacGillivray's Warbler-1 Common Yellowthroat- 1 Willow Flycatcher-1 American Goldfinch- 1 Lazuli Bunting- 1 Blue Grosbeak- 1 Brown-headed Cowbird- 1 Gray Catbird- 1 Bullock's Oriole- 2 Veery- 1 Swainson's Thrush- 5 Northern House Wren- 2
The Banding Station will be open tomorrow from Sunrise until @ 11AM. If wanting to bird the ranch, please register on the Aiken Audubon website www.aikenaudubon.com.
Have a good weekend,
Julie Shieldcastle Bander, Chico Basin Ranch Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
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Date: 5/14/26 4:43 pm From: 'Meredith McBurney' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Chatfield Banding Station, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies 5-14-26
A day similar to yesterday; birds slow but steady throughout the morning, primarily adding to the numbers of a few of our most commonly caught species - Catbirds, Chats and Yellow Warblers. An interesting capture was our 2nd Pine Siskin of the season - a male in breeding condition that is probably the mate to the female caught on May 1 (4th and 5th PISIs ever caught at the station).
Here's the breakdown of today's 27 new and 2 returns:
We are banding Tuesday through Sunday (closed Mondays) through May 31, weather permitting. There are opportunities for the public to visit on weekends and early mornings most weekdays. Reservations are required and can be made through the Denver Audubon website <https://www.denveraudubon.org/calendar>. (Many/most sessions are already sold out, so sign up now if you are interested!)
Meredith McBurney Bander, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
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Date: 5/14/26 1:19 pm From: Chicobander <jshieldcastle...> Subject: [cobirds] Chico Basin Ranch Banding Station Report- May 14, 2026-Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
Still no large numbers of any species observed at the station. There was a nice variety however. Fourteen bird species captured today. I hear a song... Where are all the Swainson's Thrushes ... Are They long time passing or not here yet. We are still catching Hermit Thrushes and someone observed a Swainson's Thrush but they should be coming in double digits or more usually by now. Strong West wind kept the mistnets from catching birds as efficiently as normal but it still gave us a glimpse of what was around. *28New Banded Birds* Virginia's Warbler- 1 Yellow Warbler- 1 Common Yellowthroat- 1 MacGillivray's Warbler- 1 Lesser Goldfinch- 2 Northern House Wren- 2 Lincoln's Sparrow- 1 Lazuli Bunting- 4 Hermit Thrush- 4 Orchard Oriole- 1 Ash-throated Flycatcher- 1 Western Tanager- 3 Bullock's Oriole- 5 Gray Catbird- 1
*1 Recapture* Bullock's Oriole
The Banding Station will be open tomorrow through Saturday from Sunrise until @ 11AM. Flying Diamond has put an electric fence around the area of the banding station woods because they are grazing cattle in the area around the houses. Please use the 4 gates on the wooden fence around the banding station building to access the wooded area around the banding station. *Please close gates when you enter and leave.* I am very grateful that Flying Diamond folks are conscientious to keep the banding area out of cattle reach while we are banding. Thank you very much! If interested in birding the ranch, Please register on the Aiken Audubon website www.aikenaudubon.com Stop by and share your bird sightings if you are in the area. We like to hear what observations you have made.
Have a good day,
Julie Shieldcastle Bander, Chico Basin Ranch Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
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Date: 5/14/26 1:02 pm From: Suzanne S <birdmom1017...> Subject: [cobirds] Clear Spring Ranch-Banding?
Hi all! Can I please get some information on the banding station at Clear Spring Ranch in Fountain? Is it open for visitors? Hours? Fees? etc.
I have some squirrelly Scouts who might want to try their hand at birding and their attention spans are pretty limited for the drive out to Chico! (Sorry, Julie! LOL)
Suzanne Schwartze
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Date: 5/14/26 10:46 am From: Paula Hansley <plhansley...> Subject: [cobirds] Sawhill Ponds, Boulder County — new arrivals
Birders, Many new birds heard and seen this morning, including Western Warbling Vireo, Northern Yellowthroat, Yellow-breasted Chat, Gray Catbird, and Black-headed Grosbeak.
I did not obtain a recording of the vireo; however, I am confident of my identification.
See checklist # S338873956.
Paula Hansley Louisville
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Date: 5/13/26 5:37 pm From: Cassie Cranmore <cassiecranmore...> Subject: [cobirds] NoCo Bird Alliance May 14th Program - The Changing Story of the Barn Swallow
[image: Beige Minimalist Stay Tuned Coming Soon Instagram Post (Facebook Post (Square)) (1).png]Join Northern Colorado Bird Alliance in person or remotely Thursday, May 14th for The Changing Story of the Barn Swallow with Dr. Rebecca Safran, Professor of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at University of Colorado Boulder.
For thousands of years, Barn Swallows have lived alongside us, thriving as human communities grew. Today, that long partnership is changing, and their populations are sharply declining. Dr. Safran's global research explores why these familiar birds are disappearing and what their genomic and behavioral shifts tell us about the future. Dr. Safran also brings a creative lens to climate communication through her work with Inside the Greenhouse.
Free and open to all starting at 7pm with announcements. In person at Fort Collins Senior Center, 1200 Raintree Dr or via Zoom https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86310595299
Come learn about the past, present, and future of our shared story with the Barn Swallow.
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Date: 5/13/26 5:36 pm From: Cassie Cranmore <cassiecranmore...> Subject: [cobirds] NoCo Bird Alliance May 14th Program - The Changing Story of the Barn Swallow
[image: Beige Minimalist Stay Tuned Coming Soon Instagram Post (Facebook Post (Square)) (1).png]Join Northern Colorado Bird Alliance in person or remotely Thursday, May 14th for The Changing Story of the Barn Swallow with Dr. Rebecca Safran, Professor of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at University of Colorado Boulder.
For thousands of years, Barn Swallows have lived alongside us, thriving as human communities grew. Today, that long partnership is changing, and their populations are sharply declining. Dr. Safran's global research explores why these familiar birds are disappearing and what their genomic and behavioral shifts tell us about the future. Dr. Safran also brings a creative lens to climate communication through her work with Inside the Greenhouse.
Free and open to all starting at 7pm with announcements. In person at Fort Collins Senior Center, 1200 Raintree Dr or via Zoom https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86310595299
Come learn about the past, present, and future of our shared story with the Barn Swallow.
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Date: 5/13/26 4:35 pm From: 'Meredith McBurney' via Colorado Birds <cobirds...> Subject: [cobirds] Chatfield Banding Station, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies 5-13-26
Continued to catch more of our breeding birds, with Yellow Warblers taking the lead (10 new, 2 returns). One lovely first of season, a Western Tanager. Now waiting for the other "big and beautifuls" (Orioles, Waxwings, Grosbeaks.......) Very warm weather led to the early closing of some nets, but had a decent day with 32 new and 4 returns:
We are banding Tuesday through Sunday (closed Mondays) through May 31, weather permitting. There are opportunities for the public to visit on weekends and early mornings most weekdays. Reservations are required and can be made through the Denver Audubon website <https://www.denveraudubon.org/calendar>. (Many/most sessions are already sold out, so sign up now if you are interested!)
Meredith McBurney Bander, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
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Date: 5/13/26 4:18 pm From: Pauli Driver-Smith <hollyhockfarms...> Subject: Re: [cobirds] Re: And now there are two!
Our poser company is United Power. Up until 2 years ago, they would install Osprey nesting platforms but have stopped for liability reasons. I do have a couple connections with them though that might get me through to arrange cleaning out the bad stuff once a year. If not them, I might have another connection or two with the right equiptment that could help.
Maybe even Weld County will help if I can sweet talk them enough. I'm pretty good at sweet talking. 🙂
________________________________
From: <cobirds...> <cobirds...> on behalf of John Rawinski <johnrawinski0...>
Sent: Wednesday, May 13, 2026 11:27 AM
To: Colorado Birds <cobirds...>
Subject: [cobirds] Re: And now there are two!
Similar to your situation was the osprey nest here in the San Luis Valley where baling twine invariably ends up in the nest, creating a potential hazard. A trim is almost needed periodically. Our local utility companies have been very responsive. I would contact them and USFW service as well and see what they can come up with if it happens again.
John Rawinski
Monte Vista, CO
On Saturday, May 9, 2026 at 7:40:10 PM UTC-6 Pauli Driver-Smith wrote:
There is another problem, though. They brought in some tangled bungee cords. It is hanging from the side of the platform. I think the hook on one end is attached to the top of the platform.
I had a lot of trees limbs come down in the storm, so I asked the tree trimmer if while he has his bucket crane here could he unhook it. He said that his license won't allow it because they are predatory birds. I thought that only mattered once they start nesting, not before they lay any eggs? I don't know if they are even going to nest this year. They haven't made a lot of progress on their nest yet, and it is getting rather late.
What do you all think? Do you know anyone in the Mead area with a cherry picker that can grab the bungee cord?
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Date: 5/13/26 2:39 pm From: Gary Brower <grb4914...> Subject: [cobirds] Arapahoe County Black Phoebe
Arapahoe Co-birders,
. . . and maybe it goes beyond this.
I see reports of the Black Phoebe couple with descriptions that refer to the “east side of the bridge” or the “north side of the bridge” — those seem mutually exclusive. And I understand, given how the bridge crossed over the S. Platte.
I’m wondering if there’s another way to refer to that area (I only ask because I was there looking for the birds today, and may have been on the “wrong” side of the bridge . . . depending on how it was described)? I certainly didn’t see any nest-building
What about “upstream” or “downstream” of the bridge, or something similar. And I’m unclear — does Arapahoe county stop at the bridge? In which case, the description might the “Douglas County” side of the bridge, etc. I know that the county lines in that area are confusing (e.g., the S. Platte Reservoir).
Maybe I’m just having a pipe dream . . ..
Thanks!
Gary Brower
Unincorporated Araphoe County
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Date: 5/13/26 1:35 pm From: Chicobander <jshieldcastle...> Subject: [cobirds] Chico Basin Ranch Banding Station Report- May 13, 2026-Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
Light to no wind overnight pushed the migrant banded birds out of the area and brought in a nice variety of species. As always there were more birds around than what we caught. A Blackburnian and Tennessee Warbler were singing near and above the banding building but never came down low as far as we could tell. Eighteen bird species were banded including four new ones for the season (Ash-throated Flycatcher, Orchard Oriole (Adult male), Green-tailed Towhee, and Mourning Dove. Let me tell you the Ash-throated Flycatcher and the Orchard Oriole they were knockouts!! The Black-headed Grosbeaks were plenty and singing around the station woods.
Tomorrow Starts the Pikes Peak Birding Festival. A festival field trip will be visiting the ranch as well as other birders. Please register for birding the ranch tomorrow on the Aiken Audubon Website www.aikenaudubon.com. At this time there were a few spaces left. The banding station will be open tomorrow through Saturday from sunrise until @11AM. Please stop by and visit and share your sightings.
Enjoy the Day,
Julie Shieldcastle Bander, Chico Basin Ranch Bird Conservancy of the Rockies
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Date: 5/13/26 10:59 am From: Kit Seeborg <kit...> Subject: [cobirds] BCAS Program May 26 – Intro to Butterfly ID for Birdwatchers
Whether you’re a casual butterflyer, or a full-fledged lepidopterist, there
is something for everyone at Boulder County Audubon Society’s May program.
Think you can directly apply your birding skills to finding butterflies?
Not so fast. They both may fly, lay eggs, and cause us to drive off the
road now and then, but butterflies in Boulder County have their secrets,
including where they hide and hang out in our varied local ecosystems.
Join guest speaker Wynne Whyman on Tuesday, May 26 in person or on Zoom for
this fun and fascinating presentation illustrated by Wynne’s beautiful
photographs. You’ll learn which butterflies to look for in the hills vs.
flatlands, and other tips for finding elusive butterflies in Boulder County.
--
*Kit Seeborg*
Communication and Outreach Volunteer
Boulder County Audubon Society <http://www.boulderaudubon.org> Boulder, Colorado
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Date: 5/13/26 10:28 am From: John Rawinski <johnrawinski0...> Subject: [cobirds] Re: And now there are two!
Similar to your situation was the osprey nest here in the San Luis Valley
where baling twine invariably ends up in the nest, creating a potential
hazard. A trim is almost needed periodically. Our local utility companies
have been very responsive. I would contact them and USFW service as well
and see what they can come up with if it happens again.
John Rawinski
Monte Vista, CO
On Saturday, May 9, 2026 at 7:40:10 PM UTC-6 Pauli Driver-Smith wrote:
> There is another problem, though. They brought in some tangled bungee
> cords. It is hanging from the side of the platform. I think the hook on one
> end is attached to the top of the platform.
>
> I had a lot of trees limbs come down in the storm, so I asked the tree
> trimmer if while he has his bucket crane here could he unhook it. He said
> that his license won't allow it because they are predatory birds. I thought
> that only mattered once they start nesting, not before they lay any eggs? I
> don't know if they are even going to nest this year. They haven't made a
> lot of progress on their nest yet, and it is getting rather late.
>
> What do you all think? Do you know anyone in the Mead area with a cherry
> picker that can grab the bungee cord?
>
> Pauli Smith
> Highlandlake/Mead, Weld County, CO.
>
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Date: 5/13/26 6:39 am From: Pauli Driver-Smith <hollyhockfarms...> Subject: [cobirds] RE: And now there are two!
The nest building is progressing, and today, both were circling the lake looking for lunch. The female caught a fish. I didn't see the male catch anything. I hope she shared. Sorry if I am boring everyone, but I haven't been this excited in ages.
In case not everyone knows, the surface rights to the lake are now owned by Mead. It is open to the public, but no motorized vehicles past the park parking lot. Right now, because of the drought, the lake is at its natural level. Even though it is #7 in seniority, it doesn't look like we are going to get any more water this year, or if we do, the lake will not be filled. The lake itself is spring fed. It was enlarged in the late 1870s to accommodate more water for irrigation, but it always had some natural water in it. What is there can't be taken out for irrigation so the farmers are hurting, but the wildlife is happy. Right now, people can walk all the way around the lake including have access to the wooded, virgin land on the west shore, where the springs come up out of the ground.
Pauli Smith
Highlandlake/Mead, Weld County.
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