Date: 11/28/25 11:16 am From: Edge Wade <1edgewade...> Subject: Bird a State Park in December
If you are experiencing the effects of a bountiful Thanksgiving meal and
are contemplating some activity this coming week, the first week of
December, and later into the month, add visiting a Missouri state park to
that list of possibilities.
Focusing on birding one with no eBird checklist for the week would be
especially rewarding as you contribute to completing a full year’s run of
data in the bar chart.
In addition to the focus parks MBS members bird for the SPARKS project, we
are also trying to reach zero blank weeks in some that have fewer than 12
blank weeks.
Visiting one or more of these state parks in December in the week(s)
indicated would fill that week with data for the first time. Week 1 is
day 1-7, week 2 is day 8-14, week 3 is day 15-21, and week 4 is day 22-end
of month.
Graham Cave SP, Montgomery Co. Dec. weeks 1 and 2
Battle of Pilot Knob SHS, Iron Co., Dec. week 2
Lake Wappapello SP, Wayne Co., Dec. week 1
Sam A. Baker SP, Wayne Co., Dec. weeks 1,2,3
Lake of the Ozarks SP, Camden Co., Dec. week 2
Washington SP, Washington Co., Dec. weeks 3 and 4
Battle of Lexington SHS, Lafayette Co., all weeks in Dec.
Date: 11/26/25 3:58 pm From: John A. Joyce <johnjoyce99...> Subject: SEOW - Legacy Park, Lees Summit, Jackson Co.
11/25/25 at 515pm I was out on a run in Legacy Park (Lees Summit, Jackson County) and was thrilled to see a single Short Eared Owl wheeling over the large open field at the south end of the park, adjacent to their new dredging operation underway.
It’s been a few years since I’ve seen one in the park but they’ve been documented here before. I only got a couple of poor videos of the bird.
John Joyce
Lees Summit MO
Jackson County
------------------------------------------------------------
The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum
Date: 11/26/25 9:20 am From: Maureen Thomas-Murphy <drmabuce...> Subject: Re: Have you heard and Merlin confirmed a bird you didn't see?
Thank you all for the educational conversation.Always learning,Maureen Thomas-MurphySt Louis
On Tuesday, November 25, 2025 at 08:44:50 PM CST, Edge Wade <1edgewade...> wrote:
I stand corrected once again, although in this instance, being a non-techy, I do not understand nor appreciate the relevant difference between a sound bite and a visual rendition, thereof.
Edge Wade, born in the far side of the previous century and not educable in some mattersColumbia, <MO1edgewade...>
On Tue, Nov 25, 2025 at 7:23 PM Kevin Wehner <kevinwehner...> wrote:
Actually, Merlin isn't loaded with sound bites. Instead it uses the visual spectrogram to identify a species. The below is from an eBird support page.
How does Sound ID work?
Different bird species' voices make different shapes and patterns on spectrograms - the visual representation of sound that you see scrolling across the top of the screen when you use Sound ID. Using machine learning technology, Merlin is trained to recognize these different shapes and patterns and identify them to species.
--
Kevin Wehner
<KevinWehner...>
Columbia, MO
On Tuesday, Nov 25, 2025 at 7:03 PM, Edge Wade <1edgewade...> wrote:
Mike is correct. I used the wrong word in saying Merlin "confirms" anything. Merlin only indicates a probable source based on the sound bites that have been loaded into it. Heck, Merlin can't tell my poor imitation of a Barred Owl from the one with feathers, so how can we expect it to be 100% correct when confronted by a superb feathered imitator?
Oh, and just for the fun of it, look up Superb Starling and see one of the more colorful starling cousins. Maybe we're fortunate it wasn't the one brought to North America--people would have been confusing it with American Robins from day one.
Edge WadeColumbia, <MO1edgewade...>
On Tue, Nov 25, 2025 at 5:45 PM Mike Taylor <3catacres...> wrote:
To be pedantic and also to emphasize Edge’s point: Merlin does not confirm sightings. It offers “Best suggestions.” It is still up to you, the birder, to confirm.
I hope everyone sees more birds than just turkey this Thursday. :)
Mike TaylorBollinger County
On Nov 25, 2025, at 10:16 AM, Edge Wade <1edgewade...> wrote:
Birders, beware! European Starlings are superb imitators.
If you think you hear a bird out of its expected season in Missouri, but do not see it, and/or Merlin indicates a bird detected that normally should no longer be present in Missouri, think twice (or more) before including it on your checklist.
Look around you, are there starlings present? Starlings have been known to imitate phoebes, pee wees, and many, many more species.
If you don't know when a bird is expected to have left Missouri, excellent bar charts showing the expected presence of species are the heart of the MDC publication, "Enjoying Missouri's Birds".
See. https://mdc.mo.gov/magazines/free-publications to order your free copy. The publication number is ID: W00007.
Bodacious, informed birding!
Edge WadeColumbia, <MO1edgewade...>
The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum
Archives / Subscription options / MBS Website / Email the list owners
ABA Birding Code of Ethics
MBS Spring Meeting: 125th Anniversary - May 1-3, 2026, Drury Plaza Hotel, Chesterfield, MO
The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum
Archives / Subscription options / MBS Website / Email the list owners
ABA Birding Code of Ethics
MBS Spring Meeting: 125th Anniversary - May 1-3, 2026, Drury Plaza Hotel, Chesterfield, MO
The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum
Archives / Subscription options / MBS Website / Email the list owners
ABA Birding Code of Ethics
MBS Spring Meeting: 125th Anniversary - May 1-3, 2026, Drury Plaza Hotel, Chesterfield, MO
The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum
Archives / Subscription options / MBS Website / Email the list owners
ABA Birding Code of Ethics
MBS Spring Meeting: 125th Anniversary - May 1-3, 2026, Drury Plaza Hotel, Chesterfield, MO
The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum
Archives / Subscription options / MBS Website / Email the list owners
ABA Birding Code of Ethics
MBS Spring Meeting: 125th Anniversary - May 1-3, 2026, Drury Plaza Hotel, Chesterfield, MO
------------------------------------------------------------
The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum
Date: 11/25/25 6:44 pm From: Edge Wade <1edgewade...> Subject: Re: Have you heard and Merlin confirmed a bird you didn't see?
I stand corrected once again, although in this instance, being a non-techy,
I do not understand nor appreciate the relevant difference between a sound
bite and a visual rendition, thereof.
Edge Wade, born in the far side of the previous century and not educable in
some matters
Columbia, MO
<1edgewade...>
On Tue, Nov 25, 2025 at 7:23 PM Kevin Wehner <kevinwehner...> wrote:
> Actually, Merlin isn't loaded with sound bites. Instead it uses the visual
> spectrogram to identify a species. The below is from an eBird support page.
>
> *How does Sound ID work?*
>
> Different bird species' voices make different shapes and patterns on
> spectrograms - the visual representation of sound that you see scrolling
> across the top of the screen when you use Sound ID. Using machine learning
> technology, Merlin is trained to recognize these different shapes and
> patterns and identify them to species.
>
> *--*
>
> *Kevin Wehner*
>
> *<KevinWehner...> <KevinWehner...>*
>
> *Columbia, MO*
>
> On Tuesday, Nov 25, 2025 at 7:03 PM, Edge Wade <1edgewade...>
> wrote:
> Mike is correct. I used the wrong word in saying Merlin "confirms"
> anything. Merlin only indicates a probable source based on the sound bites
> that have been loaded into it. Heck, Merlin can't tell my poor imitation
> of a Barred Owl from the one with feathers, so how can we expect it to be
> 100% correct when confronted by a superb feathered imitator?
>
> Oh, and just for the fun of it, look up Superb Starling and see one of the
> more colorful starling cousins. Maybe we're fortunate it wasn't the one
> brought to North America--people would have been confusing it with American
> Robins from day one.
>
> Edge Wade
> Columbia, MO
> <1edgewade...>
>
>
> On Tue, Nov 25, 2025 at 5:45 PM Mike Taylor <3catacres...> wrote:
>
>> To be pedantic and also to emphasize Edge’s point: Merlin does not
>> confirm sightings. It offers “Best suggestions.” It is still up to you, the
>> birder, to confirm.
>>
>> I hope everyone sees more birds than just turkey this Thursday. :)
>>
>> Mike Taylor
>> Bollinger County
>>
>> On Nov 25, 2025, at 10:16 AM, Edge Wade <1edgewade...> wrote:
>>
>>
>> Birders, beware! European Starlings are superb imitators.
>>
>> If you think you hear a bird out of its expected season in Missouri, but
>> do not see it, and/or Merlin indicates a bird detected that normally should
>> no longer be present in Missouri, think twice (or more) before including it
>> on your checklist.
>>
>> Look around you, are there starlings present? Starlings have been known
>> to imitate phoebes, pee wees, and many, many more species.
>>
>> If you don't know when a bird is expected to have left Missouri,
>> excellent bar charts showing the expected presence of species are the heart
>> of the MDC publication, "Enjoying Missouri's Birds".
>>
>> See. https://mdc.mo.gov/magazines/free-publications to order your free
>> copy. The publication number is ID*:* W00007.
>>
>> Bodacious, informed birding!
>>
>> Edge Wade
>> Columbia, MO
>> <1edgewade...>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> ------------------------------
>> *The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum*
>> Archives <https://lists.umsystem.edu/scripts/wa-UMS.exe?A0=MOBIRDS-L> / Subscription
>> options
>> <https://lists.umsystem.edu/SCRIPTS/wa-UMS.exe/wa?SUBED1=mobirds-l&A=1> >> / MBS Website <http://mobirds.org> / Email the list owners
>> <mobirds-l-request...>
>>
>> ABA Birding Code of Ethics <http://www.aba.org/about/ethics.html> >>
>> MBS Spring Meeting: 125th Anniversary - May 1-3, 2026, Drury Plaza Hotel,
>> Chesterfield, MO
>>
>> ------------------------------
>> *The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum*
>> Archives <https://lists.umsystem.edu/scripts/wa-UMS.exe?A0=MOBIRDS-L> / Subscription
>> options
>> <https://lists.umsystem.edu/SCRIPTS/wa-UMS.exe/wa?SUBED1=mobirds-l&A=1> >> / MBS Website <http://mobirds.org> / Email the list owners
>> <mobirds-l-request...>
>>
>> ABA Birding Code of Ethics <http://www.aba.org/about/ethics.html> >>
>> MBS Spring Meeting: 125th Anniversary - May 1-3, 2026, Drury Plaza Hotel,
>> Chesterfield, MO
>>
> ------------------------------
> *The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum*
> Archives <https://lists.umsystem.edu/scripts/wa-UMS.exe?A0=MOBIRDS-L> / Subscription
> options
> <https://lists.umsystem.edu/SCRIPTS/wa-UMS.exe/wa?SUBED1=mobirds-l&A=1> / MBS
> Website <http://mobirds.org> / Email the list owners
> <mobirds-l-request...>
>
> ABA Birding Code of Ethics <http://www.aba.org/about/ethics.html> >
> MBS Spring Meeting: 125th Anniversary - May 1-3, 2026, Drury Plaza Hotel,
> Chesterfield, MO
>
> ------------------------------
> *The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum*
> Archives <https://lists.umsystem.edu/scripts/wa-UMS.exe?A0=MOBIRDS-L> / Subscription
> options
> <https://lists.umsystem.edu/SCRIPTS/wa-UMS.exe/wa?SUBED1=mobirds-l&A=1> / MBS
> Website <http://mobirds.org> / Email the list owners
> <mobirds-l-request...>
>
> ABA Birding Code of Ethics <http://www.aba.org/about/ethics.html> >
> MBS Spring Meeting: 125th Anniversary - May 1-3, 2026, Drury Plaza Hotel,
> Chesterfield, MO
>
------------------------------------------------------------
The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum
Date: 11/25/25 5:23 pm From: Kevin Wehner <kevinwehner...> Subject: Re: Have you heard and Merlin confirmed a bird you didn't see?
Actually, Merlin isn't loaded with sound bites. Instead it uses the visual spectrogram to identify a species. The below is from an eBird support page.
How does Sound ID work?
Different bird species' voices make different shapes and patterns on spectrograms - the visual representation of sound that you see scrolling across the top of the screen when you use Sound ID. Using machine learning technology, Merlin is trained to recognize these different shapes and patterns and identify them to species.
--
Kevin Wehner
<KevinWehner...>
Columbia, MO
> On Tuesday, Nov 25, 2025 at 7:03 PM, Edge Wade <1edgewade...> (mailto:<1edgewade...>)> wrote:
> Mike is correct. I used the wrong word in saying Merlin "confirms" anything. Merlin only indicates a probable source based on the sound bites that have been loaded into it. Heck, Merlin can't tell my poor imitation of a Barred Owl from the one with feathers, so how can we expect it to be 100% correct when confronted by a superb feathered imitator?
>
> Oh, and just for the fun of it, look up Superb Starling and see one of the more colorful starling cousins. Maybe we're fortunate it wasn't the one brought to North America--people would have been confusing it with American Robins from day one.
>
> Edge Wade
> Columbia, MO
> <1edgewade...> (mailto:<1edgewade...>)
>
>
> On Tue, Nov 25, 2025 at 5:45 PM Mike Taylor <3catacres...> (mailto:<3catacres...>)> wrote:
> > To be pedantic and also to emphasize Edge’s point: Merlin does not confirm sightings. It offers “Best suggestions.” It is still up to you, the birder, to confirm.
> >
> > I hope everyone sees more birds than just turkey this Thursday. :)
> >
> > Mike Taylor
> > Bollinger County
> >
> >
> > > On Nov 25, 2025, at 10:16 AM, Edge Wade <1edgewade...> (mailto:<1edgewade...>)> wrote:
> > >
> > >
> > > Birders, beware! European Starlings are superb imitators.
> > >
> > > If you think you hear a bird out of its expected season in Missouri, but do not see it, and/or Merlin indicates a bird detected that normally should no longer be present in Missouri, think twice (or more) before including it on your checklist.
> > >
> > > Look around you, are there starlings present? Starlings have been known to imitate phoebes, pee wees, and many, many more species.
> > >
> > > If you don't know when a bird is expected to have left Missouri, excellent bar charts showing the expected presence of species are the heart of the MDC publication, "Enjoying Missouri's Birds".
> > >
> > > See. https://mdc.mo.gov/magazines/free-publications to order your free copy. The publication number is ID: W00007.
> > >
> > > Bodacious, informed birding!
> > >
> > > Edge Wade
> > > Columbia, MO
> > > <1edgewade...> (mailto:<1edgewade...>)
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > > The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum
> > > Archives (https://lists.umsystem.edu/scripts/wa-UMS.exe?A0=MOBIRDS-L) / Subscription options (https://lists.umsystem.edu/SCRIPTS/wa-UMS.exe/wa?SUBED1=mobirds-l&A=1) / MBS Website (http://mobirds.org) / Email the list owners (mailto:<mobirds-l-request...>)
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > > ABA Birding Code of Ethics (http://www.aba.org/about/ethics.html)
> > >
> > >
> > > MBS Spring Meeting: 125th Anniversary - May 1-3, 2026, Drury Plaza Hotel, Chesterfield, MO
> > >
> > >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> > The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum
> > Archives (https://lists.umsystem.edu/scripts/wa-UMS.exe?A0=MOBIRDS-L) / Subscription options (https://lists.umsystem.edu/SCRIPTS/wa-UMS.exe/wa?SUBED1=mobirds-l&A=1) / MBS Website (http://mobirds.org) / Email the list owners (mailto:<mobirds-l-request...>)
> >
> >
> >
> >
> > ABA Birding Code of Ethics (http://www.aba.org/about/ethics.html)
> >
> >
> > MBS Spring Meeting: 125th Anniversary - May 1-3, 2026, Drury Plaza Hotel, Chesterfield, MO
> >
>
>
>
>
>
> The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum
> Archives (https://lists.umsystem.edu/scripts/wa-UMS.exe?A0=MOBIRDS-L) / Subscription options (https://lists.umsystem.edu/SCRIPTS/wa-UMS.exe/wa?SUBED1=mobirds-l&A=1) / MBS Website (http://mobirds.org) / Email the list owners (mailto:<mobirds-l-request...>)
>
>
>
>
> ABA Birding Code of Ethics (http://www.aba.org/about/ethics.html)
>
>
> MBS Spring Meeting: 125th Anniversary - May 1-3, 2026, Drury Plaza Hotel, Chesterfield, MO
>
>
>
------------------------------------------------------------
The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum
Date: 11/25/25 5:04 pm From: Edge Wade <1edgewade...> Subject: Re: Have you heard and Merlin confirmed a bird you didn't see?
Mike is correct. I used the wrong word in saying Merlin "confirms"
anything. Merlin only indicates a probable source based on the sound bites
that have been loaded into it. Heck, Merlin can't tell my poor imitation
of a Barred Owl from the one with feathers, so how can we expect it to be
100% correct when confronted by a superb feathered imitator?
Oh, and just for the fun of it, look up Superb Starling and see one of the
more colorful starling cousins. Maybe we're fortunate it wasn't the one
brought to North America--people would have been confusing it with American
Robins from day one.
Edge Wade
Columbia, MO
<1edgewade...>
On Tue, Nov 25, 2025 at 5:45 PM Mike Taylor <3catacres...> wrote:
> To be pedantic and also to emphasize Edge’s point: Merlin does not
> confirm sightings. It offers “Best suggestions.” It is still up to you, the
> birder, to confirm.
>
> I hope everyone sees more birds than just turkey this Thursday. :)
>
> Mike Taylor
> Bollinger County
>
> On Nov 25, 2025, at 10:16 AM, Edge Wade <1edgewade...> wrote:
>
>
> Birders, beware! European Starlings are superb imitators.
>
> If you think you hear a bird out of its expected season in Missouri, but
> do not see it, and/or Merlin indicates a bird detected that normally should
> no longer be present in Missouri, think twice (or more) before including it
> on your checklist.
>
> Look around you, are there starlings present? Starlings have been known
> to imitate phoebes, pee wees, and many, many more species.
>
> If you don't know when a bird is expected to have left Missouri, excellent
> bar charts showing the expected presence of species are the heart of the
> MDC publication, "Enjoying Missouri's Birds".
>
> See. https://mdc.mo.gov/magazines/free-publications to order your free
> copy. The publication number is ID*:* W00007.
>
> Bodacious, informed birding!
>
> Edge Wade
> Columbia, MO
> <1edgewade...>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> ------------------------------
> *The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum*
> Archives <https://lists.umsystem.edu/scripts/wa-UMS.exe?A0=MOBIRDS-L> / Subscription
> options
> <https://lists.umsystem.edu/SCRIPTS/wa-UMS.exe/wa?SUBED1=mobirds-l&A=1> / MBS
> Website <http://mobirds.org> / Email the list owners
> <mobirds-l-request...>
>
> ABA Birding Code of Ethics <http://www.aba.org/about/ethics.html> >
> MBS Spring Meeting: 125th Anniversary - May 1-3, 2026, Drury Plaza Hotel,
> Chesterfield, MO
>
> ------------------------------
> *The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum*
> Archives <https://lists.umsystem.edu/scripts/wa-UMS.exe?A0=MOBIRDS-L> / Subscription
> options
> <https://lists.umsystem.edu/SCRIPTS/wa-UMS.exe/wa?SUBED1=mobirds-l&A=1> / MBS
> Website <http://mobirds.org> / Email the list owners
> <mobirds-l-request...>
>
> ABA Birding Code of Ethics <http://www.aba.org/about/ethics.html> >
> MBS Spring Meeting: 125th Anniversary - May 1-3, 2026, Drury Plaza Hotel,
> Chesterfield, MO
>
------------------------------------------------------------
The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum
Date: 11/25/25 4:03 pm From: John and Linda Frederick <frederickjohnandlinda...> Subject: Re: Have you heard and Merlin confirmed a bird you didn't see?
I think even if the bird is in season and expected, you should be
suspicious if Starlings are present. They are great imitators of Northern
Bobwhite and sometimes call back and forth with them (at least in my
neighborhood).
Linda Frederick
Rolla MO
On Tue, Nov 25, 2025, 10:16 AM Edge Wade <1edgewade...> wrote:
> Birders, beware! European Starlings are superb imitators.
>
> If you think you hear a bird out of its expected season in Missouri, but
> do not see it, and/or Merlin indicates a bird detected that normally should
> no longer be present in Missouri, think twice (or more) before including it
> on your checklist.
>
> Look around you, are there starlings present? Starlings have been known
> to imitate phoebes, pee wees, and many, many more species.
>
> If you don't know when a bird is expected to have left Missouri, excellent
> bar charts showing the expected presence of species are the heart of the
> MDC publication, "Enjoying Missouri's Birds".
>
> See. https://mdc.mo.gov/magazines/free-publications to order your free
> copy. The publication number is ID*:* W00007.
>
> Bodacious, informed birding!
>
> Edge Wade
> Columbia, MO
> <1edgewade...>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> ------------------------------
> *The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum*
> Archives <https://lists.umsystem.edu/scripts/wa-UMS.exe?A0=MOBIRDS-L> / Subscription
> options
> <https://lists.umsystem.edu/SCRIPTS/wa-UMS.exe/wa?SUBED1=mobirds-l&A=1> / MBS
> Website <http://mobirds.org> / Email the list owners
> <mobirds-l-request...>
>
> ABA Birding Code of Ethics <http://www.aba.org/about/ethics.html> >
> MBS Spring Meeting: 125th Anniversary - May 1-3, 2026, Drury Plaza Hotel,
> Chesterfield, MO
>
------------------------------------------------------------
The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum
Date: 11/25/25 8:16 am From: Edge Wade <1edgewade...> Subject: Have you heard and Merlin confirmed a bird you didn't see?
Birders, beware! European Starlings are superb imitators.
If you think you hear a bird out of its expected season in Missouri, but do not see it, and/or Merlin indicates a bird detected that normally should no longer be present in Missouri, think twice (or more) before including it on your checklist.
Look around you, are there starlings present? Starlings have been known to imitate phoebes, pee wees, and many, many more species.
If you don't know when a bird is expected to have left Missouri, excellent bar charts showing the expected presence of species are the heart of the MDC publication, "Enjoying Missouri's Birds".
Date: 11/22/25 11:16 am From: Mike Grant <mikecurlew...> Subject: Re: MBS Website Down?
I have tried from three computers, two Windows and my iPad, and I get this:
All the stuff after .org I did not add and even erased but it came back.
Mike Grant
From: Missouri Wild Bird Forum <MOBIRDS-L...> On Behalf Of Heidi McCullough
Sent: Saturday, November 22, 2025 11:01 AM
To: <MOBIRDS-L...>
Subject: Re: MBS Website Down?
The link in THIS email doesn't work because it has a comma on the end. It doesn't show up in the email, but if you click on the link, there's a comma that breaks the URL.
Heidi McCullough
Still proofreading in Platte County
On Fri, Nov 21, 2025 at 6:05 AM Joshua Uffman <birdsandbugs...> <mailto:<birdsandbugs...> > wrote:
I am not exactly sure who to contact, so sending this to the listserv. However, I have tried to access the Missouri Birding Society website at the following link: http://www.mobirds.org <http://www.mobirds.org,> last night and this morning, and receive an error that the "service unavailable".
I don't think this is an issue on just my end, as all else is working, so was making those aware that can look into/fix this issue.
The link in THIS email doesn't work because it has a comma on the end. It
doesn't show up in the email, but if you click on the link, there's a comma
that breaks the URL.
Heidi McCullough
Still proofreading in Platte County
On Fri, Nov 21, 2025 at 6:05 AM Joshua Uffman <birdsandbugs...>
wrote:
> I am not exactly sure who to contact, so sending this to the listserv.
> However, I have tried to access the Missouri Birding Society website at the
> following link: http://www.mobirds.org <http://www.mobirds.org,> last
> night and this morning, and receive an error that the "service
> unavailable".
>
> I don't think this is an issue on just my end, as all else is working, so
> was making those aware that can look into/fix this issue.
>
> Thanks,
> Joshua Uffman
> St. Louis County, MO
>
> ------------------------------
> *The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum*
> Archives <https://lists.umsystem.edu/scripts/wa-UMS.exe?A0=MOBIRDS-L> / Subscription
> options
> <https://lists.umsystem.edu/SCRIPTS/wa-UMS.exe/wa?SUBED1=mobirds-l&A=1> / MBS
> Website <http://mobirds.org> / Email the list owners
> <mobirds-l-request...>
>
> ABA Birding Code of Ethics <http://www.aba.org/about/ethics.html> >
> MBS Spring Meeting: 125th Anniversary - May 1-3, 2026, Drury Plaza Hotel,
> Chesterfield, MO
>
------------------------------------------------------------
The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum
It helps if you put the letter I in "birds" in the URL.
Heidi McCullough
Platte County proofreader
On Sat, Nov 22, 2025 at 10:01 AM Ann Johnson <aj...> wrote:
> Rule of thumb for all websites these days – be sure you are using https://
> in your link. That is supposed to happen in the background, but there is a
> little problem that support is looking at on the mobrds.org site.
>
> Ann Johnson
>
>
>
> *From:* Missouri Wild Bird Forum <MOBIRDS-L...> *On
> Behalf Of *Lottie Bushmann
> *Sent:* Friday, November 21, 2025 8:40 AM
> *To:* <MOBIRDS-L...>
> *Subject:* Re: MBS Website Down?
>
>
>
> Josh
>
> When I touched your link it did not open. Got an error message. I then
> went to my link on my iPad screen and it opened just fine.
>
>
>
> https://mobirds.org/ >
>
>
> I copied this from where it did open. I’m not a tech person, but wanted to
> respond as an ordinary member.
>
> Lottie Bushmann
>
> Columbia Mo
>
>
>
> On Fri, Nov 21, 2025 at 6:05 AM Joshua Uffman <birdsandbugs...>
> wrote:
>
> I am not exactly sure who to contact, so sending this to the listserv.
> However, I have tried to access the Missouri Birding Society website at the
> following link: http://www.mobirds.org <http://www.mobirds.org,> last
> night and this morning, and receive an error that the "service
> unavailable".
>
>
>
> I don't think this is an issue on just my end, as all else is working, so
> was making those aware that can look into/fix this issue.
>
>
>
> Thanks,
>
> Joshua Uffman
>
> St. Louis County, MO
> ------------------------------
>
> *The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum*
> Archives <https://lists.umsystem.edu/scripts/wa-UMS.exe?A0=MOBIRDS-L> / Subscription
> options
> <https://lists.umsystem.edu/SCRIPTS/wa-UMS.exe/wa?SUBED1=mobirds-l&A=1> / MBS
> Website <http://mobirds.org> / Email the list owners
> <mobirds-l-request...>
>
> ABA Birding Code of Ethics <http://www.aba.org/about/ethics.html> >
> MBS Spring Meeting: 125th Anniversary - May 1-3, 2026, Drury Plaza Hotel,
> Chesterfield, MO
>
> ------------------------------
>
> *The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum*
> Archives <https://lists.umsystem.edu/scripts/wa-UMS.exe?A0=MOBIRDS-L> / Subscription
> options
> <https://lists.umsystem.edu/SCRIPTS/wa-UMS.exe/wa?SUBED1=mobirds-l&A=1> / MBS
> Website <http://mobirds.org> / Email the list owners
> <mobirds-l-request...>
>
> ABA Birding Code of Ethics <http://www.aba.org/about/ethics.html> >
> MBS Spring Meeting: 125th Anniversary - May 1-3, 2026, Drury Plaza Hotel,
> Chesterfield, MO
>
> ------------------------------
> *The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum*
> Archives <https://lists.umsystem.edu/scripts/wa-UMS.exe?A0=MOBIRDS-L> / Subscription
> options
> <https://lists.umsystem.edu/SCRIPTS/wa-UMS.exe/wa?SUBED1=mobirds-l&A=1> / MBS
> Website <http://mobirds.org> / Email the list owners
> <mobirds-l-request...>
>
> ABA Birding Code of Ethics <http://www.aba.org/about/ethics.html> >
> MBS Spring Meeting: 125th Anniversary - May 1-3, 2026, Drury Plaza Hotel,
> Chesterfield, MO
>
------------------------------------------------------------
The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum
Date: 11/22/25 8:01 am From: Ann Johnson <aj...> Subject: Re: MBS Website Down?
Rule of thumb for all websites these days – be sure you are using https:// in your link. That is supposed to happen in the background, but there is a little problem that support is looking at on the mobrds.org site.
Ann Johnson
From: Missouri Wild Bird Forum <MOBIRDS-L...> On Behalf Of Lottie Bushmann
Sent: Friday, November 21, 2025 8:40 AM
To: <MOBIRDS-L...>
Subject: Re: MBS Website Down?
Josh
When I touched your link it did not open. Got an error message. I then went to my link on my iPad screen and it opened just fine.
I copied this from where it did open. I’m not a tech person, but wanted to respond as an ordinary member.
Lottie Bushmann
Columbia Mo
On Fri, Nov 21, 2025 at 6:05 AM Joshua Uffman <birdsandbugs...> <mailto:<birdsandbugs...> > wrote:
I am not exactly sure who to contact, so sending this to the listserv. However, I have tried to access the Missouri Birding Society website at the following link: http://www.mobirds.org <http://www.mobirds.org,> last night and this morning, and receive an error that the "service unavailable".
I don't think this is an issue on just my end, as all else is working, so was making those aware that can look into/fix this issue.
*MBS Camp Scholarships to American Birding Association’s (ABA) Young Birder
Camps 2026*
MBS is again sponsoring camp scholarships for Missouri young birders age
13-17. For the 2026 camp season, we are offering two scholarships: 1 to
attend Camp Colorado in Allenspark, CO, August 2-8, 2026, and 1 to Camp
Delaware Bay, coastal Delaware and Cape May, NJ, Aug. 6-12, 2026.
The application process will open on Monday, December 29, 2025. Information
about the scholarships and the application materials will be downloadable
on that date on the MBS website at https://mobirds.org/MBS/Scholarship.aspx.
Applications must be received by Sunday, February 15, 2026.
Additional information about the camps can be seen now on the ABA website
at https://www.aba.org/camps/. MBS has reserved the places for young
Missouri birders at the camps with ABA. The MBS scholarship applicants DO
NOT REGISTER FOR THE CAMPS WITH ABA, as MBS has already arranged the
registrations, including the deposits. Scholarship awardees will complete
the registration details with ABA after selection by MBS.
Camp Colorado birders will explore the shortgrass prairie of northeastern
Colorado and into the aspen groves and alpine tundra of Rocky Mountain
National Park. Delaware Bay campers will visit the beaches, bayshore,
marshes, and woodlands in Delaware and around Cape May, NJ, in peak fall
shorebird migration.
2023 Camp Scholarship awardee Eliza Lohman’s account of her Camp Colorado
adventures in the December 2023 issue of *The Bluebir*d, and Zita
Roberton’s 2024 Camp Colorado report is in the September 2024 issue. These
may be found at https://mobirds.org/Bluebird/.
MBS Youth Scholarships are made possible by proceeds from silent auctions
at meetings and generous donations. You can donate to the Youth
Scholarship Fund at https://mobirds.org/MBS/Donate.aspx. Be sure to
indicate “Youth Scholarship Fund”.
------------------------------------------------------------
The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum
Date: 11/21/25 6:58 am From: Ryan Steffens <ryanthenaturelover...> Subject: Re: MBS Website Down?
I had noticed that too yesterday, and had tried twice on my phone in the evening, and once again later at night on the laptop and got the same message.
It's working now though!
Ryan Steffens Benton Co.
On Fri, Nov 21, 2025, 6:05 AM Joshua Uffman <birdsandbugs...> wrote:
> I am not exactly sure who to contact, so sending this to the listserv. > However, I have tried to access the Missouri Birding Society website at the > following link: http://www.mobirds.org <http://www.mobirds.org,> last > night and this morning, and receive an error that the "service > unavailable". > > I don't think this is an issue on just my end, as all else is working, so > was making those aware that can look into/fix this issue. > > Thanks, > Joshua Uffman > St. Louis County, MO > > ------------------------------ > *The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum* > Archives <https://lists.umsystem.edu/scripts/wa-UMS.exe?A0=MOBIRDS-L> / Subscription > options > <https://lists.umsystem.edu/SCRIPTS/wa-UMS.exe/wa?SUBED1=mobirds-l&A=1> / MBS > Website <http://mobirds.org> / Email the list owners > <mobirds-l-request...> > > ABA Birding Code of Ethics <http://www.aba.org/about/ethics.html> > > MBS Spring Meeting: 125th Anniversary - May 1-3, 2026, Drury Plaza Hotel, > Chesterfield, MO >
------------------------------------------------------------ The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum
I copied this from where it did open. I’m not a tech person, but wanted to
respond as an ordinary member.
Lottie Bushmann
Columbia Mo
On Fri, Nov 21, 2025 at 6:05 AM Joshua Uffman <birdsandbugs...>
wrote:
> I am not exactly sure who to contact, so sending this to the listserv.
> However, I have tried to access the Missouri Birding Society website at the
> following link: http://www.mobirds.org <http://www.mobirds.org,> last
> night and this morning, and receive an error that the "service
> unavailable".
>
> I don't think this is an issue on just my end, as all else is working, so
> was making those aware that can look into/fix this issue.
>
> Thanks,
> Joshua Uffman
> St. Louis County, MO
>
> ------------------------------
> *The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum*
> Archives <https://lists.umsystem.edu/scripts/wa-UMS.exe?A0=MOBIRDS-L> / Subscription
> options
> <https://lists.umsystem.edu/SCRIPTS/wa-UMS.exe/wa?SUBED1=mobirds-l&A=1> / MBS
> Website <http://mobirds.org> / Email the list owners
> <mobirds-l-request...>
>
> ABA Birding Code of Ethics <http://www.aba.org/about/ethics.html> >
> MBS Spring Meeting: 125th Anniversary - May 1-3, 2026, Drury Plaza Hotel,
> Chesterfield, MO
>
------------------------------------------------------------
The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum
The site was being moved to a new server. It is back up.
edge
On Fri, Nov 21, 2025 at 6:05 AM Joshua Uffman <birdsandbugs...>
wrote:
> I am not exactly sure who to contact, so sending this to the listserv.
> However, I have tried to access the Missouri Birding Society website at the
> following link: http://www.mobirds.org <http://www.mobirds.org,> last
> night and this morning, and receive an error that the "service
> unavailable".
>
> I don't think this is an issue on just my end, as all else is working, so
> was making those aware that can look into/fix this issue.
>
> Thanks,
> Joshua Uffman
> St. Louis County, MO
>
> ------------------------------
> *The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum*
> Archives <https://lists.umsystem.edu/scripts/wa-UMS.exe?A0=MOBIRDS-L> / Subscription
> options
> <https://lists.umsystem.edu/SCRIPTS/wa-UMS.exe/wa?SUBED1=mobirds-l&A=1> / MBS
> Website <http://mobirds.org> / Email the list owners
> <mobirds-l-request...>
>
> ABA Birding Code of Ethics <http://www.aba.org/about/ethics.html> >
> MBS Spring Meeting: 125th Anniversary - May 1-3, 2026, Drury Plaza Hotel,
> Chesterfield, MO
>
------------------------------------------------------------
The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum
Date: 11/21/25 4:12 am From: Kevin Wehner <kevinwehner...> Subject: Re: MBS Website Down?
Jack Corrigan is the MBS webmaster: <mbs_jackc...>
*--*
Kevin Wehner
Missouri Birding Society
eNews Editor
<kevinwehner...>
Columbia, MO
On Fri, Nov 21, 2025 at 6:05 AM Joshua Uffman <birdsandbugs...>
wrote:
> I am not exactly sure who to contact, so sending this to the listserv.
> However, I have tried to access the Missouri Birding Society website at the
> following link: http://www.mobirds.org <http://www.mobirds.org,> last
> night and this morning, and receive an error that the "service
> unavailable".
>
> I don't think this is an issue on just my end, as all else is working, so
> was making those aware that can look into/fix this issue.
>
> Thanks,
> Joshua Uffman
> St. Louis County, MO
>
> ------------------------------
> *The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum*
> Archives <https://lists.umsystem.edu/scripts/wa-UMS.exe?A0=MOBIRDS-L> / Subscription
> options
> <https://lists.umsystem.edu/SCRIPTS/wa-UMS.exe/wa?SUBED1=mobirds-l&A=1> / MBS
> Website <http://mobirds.org> / Email the list owners
> <mobirds-l-request...>
>
> ABA Birding Code of Ethics <http://www.aba.org/about/ethics.html> >
> MBS Spring Meeting: 125th Anniversary - May 1-3, 2026, Drury Plaza Hotel,
> Chesterfield, MO
>
------------------------------------------------------------
The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum
I am not exactly sure who to contact, so sending this to the listserv. However, I have tried to access the Missouri Birding Society website at the following link: http://www.mobirds.orglast night and this morning, and receive an error that the "service unavailable".
I don't think this is an issue on just my end, as all else is working, so was making those aware that can look into/fix this issue.
Thanks,Joshua UffmanSt. Louis County, MO
------------------------------------------------------------
The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum
Date: 11/20/25 8:10 am From: Laura Semken <laurasemken...> Subject: Grand Pass CBC Thursday, December 18
Join the Grand Pass Audubon Christmas Bird Count
Do you find yourself interrupting conversations with the word "BIRD"? Feel like spending a day contributing to a community science project? Well, here is your chance! The Grand Pass Christmas Bird Count, located near Marshall, Missouri, is looking for volunteers to help count birds Thursday, December 18th. This circle includes Habilitation Lake, Annie and Abel Van Meter State Park, Grand Pass CA, and beautiful scenery in rural Saline County.
If you are interested in volunteering, please contact the count compiler, Laura Semken at <laurasemken...> All abilities welcome.
*Laura Waldo-Semken* 319-400-9281 Naturalist MS Environmental Education and Interpretation NAI member, Certified Interpretive Trainer https://missouriconservationcorps.org *Passionately restoring habitat connections through stewardship, education, and kindness.*
------------------------------------------------------------ The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum
Date: 11/18/25 3:34 pm From: Anne McCormack <mccormack491...> Subject: WGNSS birding this week 11/20 & 11/22
On *Thursday*, Nov. 20, we will meet at the Teal Pond parking lot at Wise
Rd. and Riverlands Way, just before you get to the Audubon Center at
Riverlands. Rain is predicted, but we have the Audubon Center for shelter
till the rain stops. Let's hope we can get a look at a Lapland Longspur in
the field near Teal Pond before the rain. After checking our favorite
Riverlands areas, we may explore the roads nearby. 50° to 59° Bring lunch
if you wish!
On Saturday, Nov. 22, we will meet at the Visitor Center at Columbia Bottom
Conservation Area <https://maps.app.goo.gl/x4a5fSfntJUnrEvG6> at 8:00 AM.
Columbia Bottom will give us more chances at sparrows, Am. Pipit or Merlin. 51°
to 60° Bring lunch if you wish!
Date: 11/16/25 11:47 am From: Marge Lumpe <margelumpe...> Subject: Sunday at Hi Lonesome
It was another gorgeous day at Hi Lonesome, however most of the birds have gone to their wintering grounds, I believe. There were 5 American Crows flying away as I approached Hi Lonesome, but they were not on the prairie.
I drove quite awhile before I saw my first bird: A Savannah Sparrow. A little further, and another fence-sitting Savannah Sparrow.
But the best was a Loggerhead Shrike at the junction of Hi Lonesome and Klink. An Eastern Meadowlark got up near the same place as the shrike. And that was it!!
Have a wonderful rest of your weekend. Marge Lumpe Benton County
------------------------------------------------------------ The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum
Date: 11/12/25 1:04 pm From: Donna Davis <000004e2f09c4838-dmarc-request...> Subject: Re: American Bittern in Franklin County
Thank you so much! I saw it up close to the bank with shorter grasses around it, across the lake from the fair structures.
On Wed, 12 Nov, 2025 at 8:39 AM, becky.lutz <0000035ce3242aa3-dmarc-request...> wrote:
To: <mobirds-l...>
Cc:
American Bittern is still present at Lions Lake. I had given up that he was still hanging around as a couple other folks looked and were unable to relocate. He hunkers down pretty well in the grasses around the shoreline. This time he was opposite the stage, so it's using the whole lake.
Becky
Washington, MO
Franklin County
Sent via the Samsung Galaxy S22+ 5G, an AT&T 5G smartphone
-------- Original message --------
From: Becky Lutz <0000035ce3242aa3-dmarc-request...>
Date: 11/8/25 13:04 (GMT-06:00)
To: <MOBIRDS-L...><http://LISTS.UMSYSTEM.EDU> Subject: Re: American Bittern in Franklin County
American Bittern still present as of 10 mins ago. Was observed working the shoreline near the sand volleyball area. The wigeon has moved on.
Becky Lutz
Franklin County
636-432-9442<tel:636-432-9442>
I was able to relocate the American Bittern seen on 11/5 by Chris Tobin at Lions Lake in Washington, MO. Originally seen by the parking lot next to the gazebo bridge. Currently is being viewed by the Cypress tree near the aluminum porch swing. Also present is an American Wigeon.
Sent via the Samsung Galaxy S22+ 5G, an AT&T 5G smartphone
Date: 11/12/25 9:44 am From: Malcolm Gold <malcolmgold...> Subject: 2026 KOS Calendars available
A big thank you to everyone that sent in photos for the 2026 KOS calendar and by doing so also volunteered to look over my text and formatting for any glaring errors. This coming year's calendar is now available for purchase. If you order online they are $15 each. Click the link below for a full preview as well as ability to add to cart and order via PayPal.
I think they make great gifts. They have prompted discussions about nature and birds with many acquaintances and colleagues at work. Moreover, the calendars always remind everyone at work of me rather than something else and allows us to have great conversations about what they saw in their backyard rather than other office politics.
If you are near Overland Park (Kansas City), send me an email as we can meet to save on shipping costs. I will be at the Burrough's Audubon Meeting this coming Monday Nov 17th at Meadowbrook Park Clubhouse if you want to pick them up there.
In addition, if you want to order more than calendars please send me an email as I will combine the items and get you a quote for actual shipping.
*MONDAY, November 17 at 6:30 p.m. - "A Changing World for Kansas Birds"* - Presented by Bob Gress, former director of the Great Plains Nature Center (GPNC) in Wichita, KS and naturalist, photographer, and wildlife tour leader. Join us for this special *in-person* meeting at Johnson County Park & Recreation District's Meadowbrook Park Clubhouse <https://maps.app.goo.gl/LP2Sqdk3qZBkZ9XYA>! Bob will have copies of his and Pete Janzen's *The Guide to Kansas Birds and Birding Hot Spots - Second Edition* to sell and personally sign. Sincerely,
Malcolm Gold (Overland Park, volunteer KOS Business Manager, Kansas)
------------------------------------------------------------ The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum
Date: 11/12/25 6:39 am From: becky.lutz <0000035ce3242aa3-dmarc-request...> Subject: Re: American Bittern in Franklin County
American Bittern is still present at Lions Lake. I had given up that he was still hanging around as a couple other folks looked and were unable to relocate. He hunkers down pretty well in the grasses around the shoreline. This time he was opposite the stage, so it's using the whole lake. BeckyWashington, MO Franklin County Sent via the Samsung Galaxy S22+ 5G, an AT&T 5G smartphone -------- Original message --------From: Becky Lutz <0000035ce3242aa3-dmarc-request...> Date: 11/8/25 13:04 (GMT-06:00) To: <MOBIRDS-L...> Subject: Re: American Bittern in Franklin County American Bittern still present as of 10 mins ago. Was observed working the shoreline near the sand volleyball area. The wigeon has moved on.Becky LutzFranklin County636-432-9442
On Friday, November 7, 2025 at 12:36:55 PM CST, becky.lutz <0000035ce3242aa3-dmarc-request...> wrote:
I was able to relocate the American Bittern seen on 11/5 by Chris Tobin at Lions Lake in Washington, MO. Originally seen by the parking lot next to the gazebo bridge. Currently is being viewed by the Cypress tree near the aluminum porch swing. Also present is an American Wigeon. Sent via the Samsung Galaxy S22+ 5G, an AT&T 5G smartphone
The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum Archives / Subscription options / MBS Website / Email the list owners ABA Birding Code of Ethics
MBS Spring Meeting: May 1-3, 2026, Drury Plaza Hotel, Chesterfield, MO
The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum Archives / Subscription options / MBS Website / Email the list owners ABA Birding Code of Ethics
MBS Spring Meeting: May 1-3, 2026, Drury Plaza Hotel, Chesterfield, MO
------------------------------------------------------------
The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum
Date: 11/11/25 3:29 pm From: Jean L <jaleonatti...> Subject: SE owls
3 SE owls were observed hunting at Bradford Farm for about 20 minutes this evening, starting at about 5p. Was alerted to their presence yesterday by Edge Wade.
Jean Leonatti Boone county <jaleonatti...>
------------------------------------------------------------ The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum
Geez, I really can write a complete sentence--maybe even dissect it (but
not the one I just sent).
Jean just reported that a third owl joined them, mostly hunting over
greasy/fescue section, north of the main east-west road (where there is
currently a rusty green bulldozer parked), but then flew to south side and
over the lake.
Edge Wade
Columbia
<1edgewade...>
On Tue, Nov 11, 2025 at 5:16 PM Edge Wade <1edgewade...> wrote:
> Yesterday, I sawe one Short-eared Owl was seen near the West Lake at
> Bradford Farm in mid-afternoon.
>
> Now (5:00 p.m., Tuesday), two are being seen by Jean Leonatti in the same
> vicinity,
>
> Edge Wade
> Columbia, Mo
> <1eddgewade...>
>
> ------------------------------
> *The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum*
> Archives <https://lists.umsystem.edu/scripts/wa-UMS.exe?A0=MOBIRDS-L> / Subscription
> options
> <https://lists.umsystem.edu/SCRIPTS/wa-UMS.exe/wa?SUBED1=mobirds-l&A=1> / MBS
> Website <http://mobirds.org> / Email the list owners
> <mobirds-l-request...>
>
> ABA Birding Code of Ethics <http://www.aba.org/about/ethics.html> >
> MBS Spring Meeting: May 1-3, 2026, Drury Plaza Hotel, Chesterfield, MO
>
------------------------------------------------------------
The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum
Date: 11/11/25 1:21 pm From: Anne McCormack <mccormack491...> Subject: WGNSS birding this week Nov. 13 & 15
On *Thursday*, Nov. 13, we will meet at the Tremayne Shelter/ Sailboat Cove
at Creve Coeur Lake <https://maps.app.goo.gl/zaVH7FS1ET8UYe8fA>. After
checking the lake, we will go on to Little Creve Coeur Lake Ecological Area
<https://maps.app.goo.gl/5So45pVrgCDWkmSA6> and check out nearby bird
reports as well. See the attached map. 38° to 63° *Please join us for lunch
at La Bonne Bouchée <https://maps.app.goo.gl/2o2a55QRwK364iQz6>* 12344
Olive Blvd, Creve Coeur, MO 63141. (In the same shopping center as
Chick-fil-A)
On *Saturday*, Nov. 15, we will meet at the Teal Pond parking lot at 8:00,
at Wise Rd. and Riverlands Way, just before you get to the Audubon Center
at Riverlands <https://maps.app.goo.gl/XFHUCeizWUSN8hmZ6>. Access is
limited in some areas for refuge season. See the small attached map. 50° to
73° Bring lunch if you wish!
As always, be prepared for some St. Louis-style weather changes. Water and
bug spray, of course.
--
Anne McCormack
Our Christmas Bird Count Website
<https://sites.google.com/view/weldon-spring-cbc/home> Webster Groves Nature Study Society <https://www.wgnss.org/>
------------------------------------------------------------
The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum
Date: 11/9/25 9:58 am From: Kathleen Anderson <00000493e9e2f3f6-dmarc-request...> Subject: Eagle Bluffs - Viewing hours 1-3
Eagle Bluffs is now under restricted access with viewing along main road from 1-3 daily.
North of Junction Box can still be viewed at anytime.
Kathleen Anderson, Columbia
------------------------------------------------------------
The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum
Date: 11/8/25 11:04 am From: Becky Lutz <0000035ce3242aa3-dmarc-request...> Subject: Re: American Bittern in Franklin County
American Bittern still present as of 10 mins ago. Was observed working the shoreline near the sand volleyball area. The wigeon has moved on.
Becky LutzFranklin County636-432-9442
On Friday, November 7, 2025 at 12:36:55 PM CST, becky.lutz <0000035ce3242aa3-dmarc-request...> wrote:
I was able to relocate the American Bittern seen on 11/5 by Chris Tobin at Lions Lake in Washington, MO. Originally seen by the parking lot next to the gazebo bridge. Currently is being viewed by the Cypress tree near the aluminum porch swing. Also present is an American Wigeon.
Sent via the Samsung Galaxy S22+ 5G, an AT&T 5G smartphone
The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum
Archives / Subscription options / MBS Website / Email the list owners
ABA Birding Code of Ethics
MBS Spring Meeting: May 1-3, 2026, Drury Plaza Hotel, Chesterfield, MO
------------------------------------------------------------
The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum
Date: 11/7/25 10:36 am From: becky.lutz <0000035ce3242aa3-dmarc-request...> Subject: American Bittern in Franklin County
I was able to relocate the American Bittern seen on 11/5 by Chris Tobin at Lions Lake in Washington, MO. Originally seen by the parking lot next to the gazebo bridge. Currently is being viewed by the Cypress tree near the aluminum porch swing. Also present is an American Wigeon. Sent via the Samsung Galaxy S22+ 5G, an AT&T 5G smartphone
------------------------------------------------------------
The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum
Date: 11/6/25 9:25 am From: Diane Bricmont <colaptes.auratus...> Subject: Common Loons - St. Louis County
Three COLOs on Creve Coeur Lake this morning. I'm currently viewing from Marine, but the soccer park overlook may provide better looks. Thanks to Dave Haenni for the info.
Diane Bricmont STL CO
------------------------------------------------------------ The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum
On *Saturday*, Nov. 8, we will meet at the headquarters at Horseshoe Lake State Park <https://maps.app.goo.gl/6KBQi9pvT1hDkPAg7> in Illinois at 8:00 AM. Depending on the birds, we will probably go on to the 203 side of the lake on Bend Road <https://maps.app.goo.gl/h9eZyvwzbgAyFLgo9>. Wish list: Franklin's Gull, Redhead, Brewer's Blackbird.
On *Saturday*, Nov. 8, we will meet at the headquarters at Horseshoe Lake
State Park <https://maps.app.goo.gl/6KBQi9pvT1hDkPAg7> in Illinois at 8:00
AM. Depending on the birds, we will probably go on to the 203 side of the
lake on Bend Road <https://maps.app.goo.gl/h9eZyvwzbgAyFLgo9>. Wish list:
Franklin's Gull, Redhead, Brewer's Blackbird.
Bring lunch if you wish and dress for the weather.
Date: 11/3/25 5:15 pm From: Becky Lutz <0000035ce3242aa3-dmarc-request...> Subject: No Sighting: Help with scouts
A local Cub Scout Pack (K-5th grade) reached out to me for help. They are going to be making bird feeders at their Pack meeting next Monday, November 10th at 6:30pm. They would like someone to come in and talk to the youth about birds in the area for about 15-20 mins. The meeting is in Washington at the St. Francis Borgia elementary cafeteria. The Cubmaster is Craig Cramer and can be reached at 573-291-1060. Unfortunately, I am working that day and unable to help, so I thought I would see if anyone else would be in the area and able to step in. Please reach out to Craig directly, or you can message me and I can pass it along to Craig.
Thanks,BeckyFranklin County (Washington, MO)
Becky LutzOsage District Camping Chair636-432-9442
------------------------------------------------------------
The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum
Date: 11/3/25 3:08 pm From: Lisa Saffell <lesfstl...> Subject: White-throated Sparrows and Snow Buntings
It seems a bit early but as I sit here typing this email I already have five regular WTSP coming to the yard. They are all currently in Hope springs chipping and whistling at each other. I might break my high count record of 18 set on January 17, 2025 at this rate.
I saw a post on friends of Montrose point Facebook Group that the Snow Buntings are there on the beach. It made me realize I’ve not ever seen one yet. I may take a drive up and try for them but I would really love to see them in Missouri. Does anyone have any good information as to where I might find one in Missouri.
Thanks in advance! Hope everyone is ready for the coldest temps of the season coming in around the 10th of November.
“A bird does not sing because it has an answer, it sings because it has a song.” — Maya Angelou
Lisa Saffell, St. Louis
@instagram.com/lisasaffell
@instagram.com/stl_birder
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The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum
Date: 11/1/25 6:01 pm From: Dianne & Steve Kinder <0000041e4c13219a-dmarc-request...> Subject: Re: Long Branch SP Deer Hunt closint
Crowder SP , Grundy County, will also be closed next wknd, Nov 7-9. Steve Kinder SK On Saturday, November 1, 2025 at 03:07:52 PM PDT, Edge Wade <1edgewade...> wrote:
Long Branch State Park (Macon Co.) will be closed for a managed deer hunt November 8-11. Edge <WadeColumbia1edgewade...>
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Date: 10/31/25 9:11 am From: Edge Wade <1edgewade...> Subject: Bird Flu in Missouri
This is from an MDC News Release today:
MDC is investigating numerous reports of sick and dead waterfowl across
Missouri.
The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is actively monitoring
reports of sick and dead waterfowl, such as geese and ducks, and raptors
across the state. Testing of these birds has confirmed the cause to be
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), or “bird flu.”
Avian influenza spreads among birds through contact with infected feces,
saliva, or nasal discharges. Migratory birds traveling along North American
flyways can carry the virus and it can move between wild birds and domestic
poultry. Symptoms to look for in sick birds include tremors, head tilting,
lethargy, loss of coordination, inability to fly or walk properly, or
trouble standing upright.
While the risk from HPAI to the general public remains low, sporadic human
infections have occurred usually after close exposure. MDC encourages
hunters and others to take precautions:
HPAI infections in humans are rare. Contact a healthcare provider if
experiencing any unusual symptoms of possible infection, such as eye
redness, respiratory problems, and fever. It is safe to eat properly
handled and cooked poultry. Cooking meat to an internal temperature of
165°F, helps destroy the virus if present.
Edge Wade
Columbia
<1edgewade...>
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The Missouri Birding Society's Wild Bird Discussion Forum
Date: 10/31/25 7:32 am From: Edge Wade <1edgewade...> Subject: Rock Bridge Mem. State Park Closing next week
Rock Bridge Memorial State Park, including the Gans Creek Wild Area, will be closed November 3 and 4 for a managed deer hunt to reduce the population. 50 hunters will be in the park; 25 more will be in the Gans Creek Wild Area.
Edge Wade Columbia <1edgewade...>
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