Date: 9/2/25 5:28 pm From: Hammer, Roger L via groups.io <hamme1rl...> Subject: Re: [slocobirding] Atascadero SOSA location request
As of this afternoon there were 2 there, Johanna. Plus the Spotted. They are still exactly where KZ found them- on the west shoreline in the mud flats just north of the northernmost tip of the island. Great views. Good luck. rlh
From: <slocobirding...> <slocobirding...> On Behalf Of Rubba Johanna via groups.io
Sent: Tuesday, September 2, 2025 10:15 AM
To: <slocobirding...>
Subject: [slocobirding] Atascadero SOSA location request
Could we please get a precise location for the Solitary Sandpiper at Atascadero Lake? The map pin is in the middle of the lake, and I doubt a sandpiper would be there!
Date: 9/2/25 11:40 am From: Claudia Freitas via groups.io <cfreitas365...> Subject: [slocobirding] Black-throated Gray Warbler
A beautiful male with a bright supraorbital yellow spot was picking its way through my Flannelbushes on Sunday. Great to see up close through the kitchen window.
American goldfinch male in fountain this morning.
Also I'm having between 10 to 15 Western Bluebirds in my fountains each day - adults and juveniles.
Date: 9/2/25 10:14 am From: Rubba Johanna via groups.io <jer72701...> Subject: [slocobirding] Atascadero SOSA location request
Could we please get a precise location for the Solitary Sandpiper at Atascadero Lake? The map pin is in the middle of the lake, and I doubt a sandpiper would be there!
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Rufous Hummingbird (Selasphorus rufus) (5)
- Reported Sep 01, 2025 18:49 by Marcella Munson
- 9235 Santa Margarita Rd, Atascadero US-CA 35.42441, -120.61713, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.617134&<ll...>,-120.617134 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S271018127 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Identified via coloration, close-up photos of back, flanks, and tail feathers (including R2/R5 - with telltale coloration/shape), vocalizations, and behavior. Extreme resource-guarding behavior; perching on top of feeder and chasing all others away. We have only been seeing one at a time in recent weeks, but today there was an “explosion” in their feeder population and we saw four at once! Very sustained “fighter-jet” chases between them and the resident Anna’s. We are on the edge of Santa Margarita Ranch and have a number of very large, mature oak trees on 3 acres. Will append photos once back at the computer."
Solitary Sandpiper (Tringa solitaria) (1)
- Reported Aug 31, 2025 11:35 by Kevin Zimmer
- Atascadero Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6667256&<ll...>,-120.6667256 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S271033981 - Comments: "Continuing; first reported yesterday by Gabriel Ruby. Seen near a lone Spotted Sandpiper, foraging on exposed mud on the west shore of the lake, just north of the northern tip of the island. Typical Tringa, bigger and longer-billed than the nearby Spotted; with dull, greenish-yellow legs; big white eye ring, dark central rectrices, but outer rectrices white, barred with black. Photos to be uploaded later."
Solitary Sandpiper (Tringa solitaria) (1)
- Reported Aug 26, 2025 16:26 by Pair of Wing-Nuts
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270826146 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing mid-sized sandpiper (Kevin Zimmer 8.26.25) was brown on back with white spotting, brown streaking on upper breast, white throat, clean white below and had a small, round head with prominent white eye-ring, white lores, straight, dark bill about the same length as the head (front to back) and greenish/yellow legs."
Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) (1)
- Reported Sep 01, 2025 11:05 by Petra Clayton
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270974496 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing juvenile from last night's first eBird report at Laguna Lake (Sam Larkin, 8/31/25 at 5:38 p.m). Very likely the same individual that had been observed at Morro Creek Mouth from 8/30/25 to 8/31/25. (Last eBird report at Morro Creek mouth: 8/31/25 at 4:35 p.m.)
Viewed through the scope from the empty lot at the Prefumo Creek mouth: Perched at the edge of the vegetation across the lake (on the north side of the lake). Over all white with greenish-yellow legs and feet; greenish lores and dark bill, however not as dark as that of a Snowy Egret.
Click on the image below for a Flickr video:
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jack-petra-clayton/54759178532/in/dateposted-public/" title="Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea), juvenile, San Luis Obispo, CACA"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/54759178532_90a2e18d06_z.jpg" alt="Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea), juvenile, San Luis Obispo, CACA" /></a>"
Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) (1)
- Reported Sep 01, 2025 10:52 by Ann Stockert
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270953475 - Comments: "Previously reported by Herb this morning. Possibly same juvenile from Morro Creek Mouth. Distant scope views across the lake but too far for photos. Did observe all pale green legs and bicolored bill, but unable to distinguish dark tipped primaries."
Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) (1)
- Reported Sep 01, 2025 09:55 by The Spotting Twohees
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270946129 - Comments: "This bird seems to be the same individual that was at Morro Creek mouth for several days. There was no overlap in sightings between the two locations since late yesterday afternoon. When we arrived the bird was on the mudflat out from the vacant lot viewing area. It had all white plumage except for gray tips on the primaries that are barely exposed when standing. The legs were all green as well as the feet. The bill was dark at the tip and lighter colored at the base. The eyes looked yellow. After about 20 minutes a Bald Eagle flew by and flushed a lot of birds including the LBHE. It flew to the other side (northeast) of the lake and ended up in a small snag opposite our location about here. 35°15'59.8"N 120°41'26.0"W It stayed there for the rest of the time we were onsight which was about another 20 minutes."
Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 01, 2025 09:33 by Tom Edell
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270957975 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing juvenile first reported here late afternoon yesterday. Possibly the same bird previously at Morro Creek. All white egret with completely greenish legs, a two tone bill that was grayish toward the base and dark toward the tip and a pale iris. (Photo)"
Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) (1)
- Reported Sep 01, 2025 08:28 by Herb Elliott
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270943675 - Media: 8 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing; first reported here at Laguna Lake (Prefumo Overlook) on 31 Aug 2025 (5:38 PM ) by Sam Larkin. When I arrived this morning Nick Belardes and Jake Hager were already on the bird.
Very likely the same bird seen yesterday at Morro Creek mouth - https://ebird.org/checklist/S270718485.
The Little Blue Heron at Morro Creek mouth was last reported on 31 Aug 2025 at 4:35 PM."
Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) (1)
- Reported Sep 01, 2025 07:38 by Nick & Jane
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270947662 - Comments: "Continuing from late yesterday evening when S.L. spotted it foraging in the shallows of the mudflats at the creek mouth. It was there early this morn when I arrived, in a hunter’s pose, staring down at the water, sometimes in the channel between the mudflats. The bird was small and white, with grey tips to its primaries (the grey was pointed out to me by H.E), and overall was much smaller than a snowy egret. It had pale, fierce eyes, and a touch of green in its lores. Its coal-tipped bill was otherwise grey-blue, and its legs and feet were yellow-green. Two other birders arrived, J.H. and H.E. We watched the bird fly toward the creek, bank and turn and come back to the flats. Later, on the north side of the lake I could see the bird also on the north side, perched on a foliage. Photos"
Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 31, 2025 07:35 by Petra Clayton
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270790680 - Media: 9 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing juvenile since 8/30/2025.
Overall white, but a bit smaller than nearby Snowy Egrets.
Greenish-yellow legs and feet; multi-toned bill, with bluish-gray base on the upper mandible, pinkish on the lower mandible, dark blue-gray on the distal third; greenish lores; pale-yellow iris.
After feeding in the creek about 50 feet east of the pedestrian bridge it flew up, circling around and finally landing in the cypress up-creek.
Click on the image below for a Flickr video:
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jack-petra-clayton/54760191374/in/dateposted-public/" title="Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea), juvenile, Morro Bay, CA"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/54760191374_caedfd6c18_z.jpg" alt="Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea), juvenile, Morro Bay, CA" /></a>"
Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) (1)
- Reported Aug 30, 2025 13:10 by Kevin Zimmer
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S271034711 - Media: 17 Photos
- Comments: "Juvenile bird found earlier in the day by LH. Visibly smaller than nearby Snowy Egret; plumage entirely white, except for inconspicuous dusky-blackish tips/edges to primaries (most noticeable in flight, or when the wings were raised above the head); legs and feet uniformly dull, pale olive; bill two-toned, with black distal half and paler base (blue-gray on upper mandible, somewhat more pinkish at base of lower mandible); loral skin gray (not yellow as in Snowy Egret), iris pale, slightly greenish-white, outlined by contrastingly dark orbital ring. Every time I see a juvenile Little Blue, I'm struck by the different facial pattern (compared to Snowy Egret) that results from the contrast between the gray lores, dark orbital ring, and whitish eye. Most Snowy Egrets (certainly most adults) have bright yellow loral skin, and more yellow irides, and they don't seem to have the outlined look created by the dark orbital ring around the white eye. I saw the Little Blue catch multiple smallish flat fish (Possibly Sand Dabs?) from the shallow creek and eat them."
Tennessee Warbler (Leiothlypis peregrina) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 31, 2025 13:30 by Kaaren Perry
- Morro Bay yard, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.844846&<ll...>,-120.844846 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270981969 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Returning from morning visit to the yard. The bird was very interested in the fountain and spent a total of 8 uninterrupted minutes bathing. Continuing."
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Solitary Sandpiper (Tringa solitaria) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 31, 2025 06:43 by Ben Kolstad
- Atascadero Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6667256&<ll...>,-120.6667256 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270634149 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Medium size sandpiper with greenish legs, bold white eye ring leading into a large whitish stripe going forward from the eye. No shoulder check like spotty (there were several SPSA around the lake). Did not tail pump, either. Raised both wings high at times while foraging. Surely the same bird found yesterday by Gabriel Rudy."
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1)
- Reported Aug 30, 2025 13:20 by Pair of Wing-Nuts
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270586935 - Comments: "Continuing juvenile bird (Kevin Zimmer 8.22.25) was much smaller than nearby Double-crested Cormorants and was dark brown above with dark supraloral region, shorter, narrow, pale bill with sharply angled (at rear) orange/yellow gular patch with faint white border. Photo to follow."
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1)
- Reported Aug 30, 2025 13:20 by Theodor Geisel
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270768111 - Comments: "Continuing juvenile bird (Kevin Zimmer 8.22.25) was much smaller than nearby Double-crested Cormorants and was dark brown above with dark supraloral region, shorter, narrow, pale bill with sharply angled (at rear) orange/yellow gular patch with faint white border. Photo to follow."
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1)
- Reported Aug 30, 2025 13:20 by Jeff Miller
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270760153 - Comments: "Continuing juvenile bird (Kevin Zimmer 8.22.25) was much smaller than nearby Double-crested Cormorants and was dark brown above with dark supraloral region, shorter, narrow, pale bill with sharply angled (at rear) orange/yellow gular patch with faint white border. Photo to follow."
Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) (1)
- Reported Aug 31, 2025 16:35 by randall lyon
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270754444 - Comments: "In the water and flying upstream of the bicycle bridge over morro creek east of morro strand beach. There were western gulls on the mud flat and a nearby great egret and snowy regret to compare it to. It had the greenish legs, beak variations and eyes described by others. Confirmed by two other birders present."
Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 31, 2025 07:34 by Jay Carroll
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270683108 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing juvenile reported here yesterday morning; slightly smaller than nearby Snowy Egrets, and exhibiting uniformly greenish-yellow legs and feet, a darkish terminus on the bill, and dusky tips to the outer primaries."
Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 31, 2025 06:58 by Herb Elliott
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270718485 - Media: 16 Photos
- Comments: "…small white heron with dull greenish legs, greenish lores, dual colored bill; small dark gray tips on outer primaries.
… continuing this morning, found yesterday by Liam H."
Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 30, 2025 17:06 by Terri May
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270616689 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Observed actively foraging in the creek. It was about the same size as the Snowy, but had pale green legs and feet. Overall its bill was a pale dullish grayish-black. It had yellow eyes. It was aggressively chased by Snowy Egrets."
Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 30, 2025 14:40 by Terri Osborn
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270766379 - Media: 7 Photos
- Comments: "First seen perched in a Monterey cypress tree up the creek but eventually flew down into the creek to forage with nearby Snowy Egrets. The heron was similar in size to the Snowy Egrets, all white except for dusky edging on wingtips (visible in flight and when it fluffed its feathers), yellow eyes, bi-colored bill, blue gray at the base and black at the tip, blue gray lores, and long yellowish-green legs. It foraged in the creek, walking slowly back and forth and caught several small fish. The juvenile Little Blue Heron was found by Liam H. earlier today."
Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) (1)
- Reported Aug 30, 2025 12:45 by Roger Hammer
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270780396 - Comments: "Tom E pointed out the bird to me as soon as I stepped onto the bridge from my car. White heron with a 2-toned bill and green legs, slightly smaller and leaner than the SNEGs that were hassling it as it tried to feed."
Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 30, 2025 12:12 by Jeff Miller
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270695841 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing bird from earlier today (Liam H.) was slender and smaller than nearby Snowy Egrets, with all white body, pale gray lores, bright, bold yellowish iris, two tone bill that was pinkish/blue at base and black at tip and pale green legs and feet. Observed feeding up-creek from creek mouth pedestrian bridge."
Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 30, 2025 12:12 by Pair of Wing-Nuts
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270571332 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing bird from earlier today (Liam H.) was slender and smaller than nearby Snowy Egrets, with all white body, pale gray lores, bright, bold yellowish iris, two tone bill that was pinkish/blue at base and black at tip and pale green legs and feet. Observed feeding up-creek from creek mouth pedestrian bridge."
Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 30, 2025 12:12 by Theodor Geisel
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270594769 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing bird from earlier today (Liam H.) was slender and smaller than nearby Snowy Egrets, with all white body, pale gray lores, bright, bold yellowish iris, two tone bill that was pinkish/blue at base and black at tip and pale green legs and feet. Observed feeding up-creek from creek mouth pedestrian bridge."
Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 30, 2025 12:04 by Jeanne Miller
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270708951 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Juvenile. Small white heron with very noticeable green legs. Bill black at distal third, rest gray. Seemingly smaller and less bulky than nearby Snowy Egrets.
Found earlier this morning, then flew and reappeared an hour or so later. I saw it among several other local birders. Photos later."
Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) (1)
- Reported Aug 30, 2025 10:45 by Petra Clayton
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270464157 - Media: 20 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing juvenile from earlier this morning at this location (Liam H.)
After it was first seen the bird was absent for a while before returning to the creek.
(Only other prior eBird report of this species at this eBird hotspot: 8/26/2005, Tom Edell). (Most recent SLO County eBird report: 11/12/2019, Pismo Creek Mouth)
Overall white and from a distance it looked similar to nearby Snowy Egrets, albeit a bit smaller. However, it was a lot smaller than a nearby Great Egret.
Distinguishing features:
- Legs and feet: Same greenish-yellow color on both, legs and feet, unlike Snowy Egret's black legs (or greenish legs on immature Snowy Egret) and yellow feet (both adult and immature Snowy Egret).
- Bill: Multi-tone, as seen in our photos: Bluish-gray base on the upper mandible, pinkish on the lower mandible, dark blue-gray on the distal third, unlike Snowy Egret's black upper mandible with a yellow base, and yellowish lower mandible.
- Lores: Greenish, unlike Snowy Egret's orange lores.
- Eyes: Pale-yellow iris, unlike Snowy Egret's brighter yellow iris.
- Wing tips: Not noticed in the field, but the gray primary wing tips are evident in photos/video showing the bird's back side and when it stretches its wings.
Feeding in the creek, about 50 feet east of the pedestrian bridge with Snowy Egrets, one Great Egret and a Spotted Sandpiper. Moving around more actively than the other egrets, wading in the water mid-creek and in the reeds at the northern bank and walking on the mud flats, where the leg-feet color match could be seen clearly. It was catching only some very small fish while we observed.
Click on the image below for a YouTube video, which includes Snowy Egrets and a Great Egret:
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/eEDISJXnzZU?si=QwIHrZM9xQcf4NP_" frameborder="0"></iframe>"
Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 30, 2025 08:43 by Jeff Miller
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270695897 - Media: 9 Photos
- Comments: "Liam H. was first to pull a different bird from a busy Snowy Egret flock and suggest Little Blue Heron. Juvenile bird was all white, slender and noticeably smaller than nearby Snowy Egrets. The smaller head showed grayish lores and bright yellow iris bordered the dark pupil. The shorter (when compared to Snowy Egret), two-tone bill was pinkish/blue the first 2/3 of the bill length and black the final 1/3 to the bill tip. The legs and feet were a pale green which contrasted markedly with black and yellow legs and feet the Snowy Egrets. The bird was observed actively feeding mainly along north creek bank, sometimes loosely associating with the Snowy Egret flock and foraging alone at other times. During several short flights up and down the creek, darker tips to the primaries were seen. A Cooper's Hawk eventually flew in and drove all of the birds from the creek east of the footbridge. However, most of the birds, including the Little Blue Heron would return later."
Reddish Egret (Egretta rufescens) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 30, 2025 10:10 by Theodor Geisel
- Morro Bay Harbor, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.857&<ll...>,-120.857 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270569514 - Comments: "Continuing juvenile bird with pale pinkish-red head, neck and breast and chalky blue back. Observed about .6 miles SW of Sea Otter Pier (not USGS Pier) on opposite shore associating with other egrets. We would relocate to areas near Tideland Park to get better looks."
Reddish Egret (Egretta rufescens) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 30, 2025 10:10 by Jeff Miller
- Morro Bay Harbor, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.857&<ll...>,-120.857 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270695872 - Comments: "Continuing juvenile bird with pale pinkish-red head, neck and breast and chalky blue back. Observed about .6 miles SW of Sea Otter Pier (not USGS Pier) on opposite shore associating with other egrets. We would relocate to areas near Tidelands Park to get better looks."
Reddish Egret (Egretta rufescens) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 30, 2025 10:09 by Pair of Wing-Nuts
- Morro Bay Harbor, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.857&<ll...>,-120.857 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270592959 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing bird was chalky blue above with pinkish-red head and neck, grayish-red breast and dark legs. Observed on beach opposite north end of Tidelands Park."
Reddish Egret (Egretta rufescens) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 30, 2025 10:09 by Theodor Geisel
- Morro Bay Harbor, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.857&<ll...>,-120.857 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270598029 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing bird was chalky blue above with pinkish-red head and neck, grayish-red breast and dark legs. Observed on beach opposite north end of Tidelands Park."
Reddish Egret (Egretta rufescens) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 30, 2025 10:09 by Jeff Miller
- Morro Bay Harbor, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.857&<ll...>,-120.857 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270695814 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing bird was chalky blue above with pinkish-red head and neck, grayish-red breast and dark legs. Observed on beach opposite north end of Tidelands Park."
Tennessee Warbler (Leiothlypis peregrina) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 31, 2025 09:20 by Kaaren Perry
- Morro Bay yard, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.844846&<ll...>,-120.844846 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270690823 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Moving through with OCWA. Attracted by bird bath. Bright greenish -yellow upper parts, pale yellow underparts, eye line, white eyebrow, sharply pointed bill white undertail, short tail. Last reported at this location August 16."
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Solitary Sandpiper (Tringa solitaria) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 30, 2025 08:20 by marlin harms
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270478808 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "The bird was foraging where I saw it several days ago when Kevin Zimmer had found it. After just a couple minutes it was scared to another part of the creek nearby by a Western Gull, then suddenly a minute later it flew up and eastward upstream and out of sight."
Semipalmated Sandpiper (Calidris pusilla) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 28, 2025 14:50 by Rod MacKenzie
- Turri Road Tidal Ponds, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8218378&<ll...>,-120.8218378 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270396879 - Comments: "Juvenile with the Leasts in the pond closest to the main road. Scaly gray above (no reddish in the scaps like Western and no brown cast like Least). White below. Stubby straight bill. I managed some probably identifiable photos. Everything was scared up by a Peregrine and was lost."
South Polar Skua (Stercorarius maccormicki) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 29, 2025 08:20 by Kyle Kittelberger
- WINGS 08.2025 4.3, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.9014328&<ll...>,-121.9014328 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270442547 - Comments: "Distant, details from Kyle: scoped flying along the horizon, a large dark brown bird with a direct, powerful flight and a notably short-tailed appearance. Large and full-bodied."
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 28, 2025 13:10 by Rod MacKenzie
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270396819 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing immature (1 year old - showing molt limit in both primaries and tail) flew in and perched in a tree upstream of the bridge. Smaller bill, longer tail apparent both in flight and while perched. Photographed."
Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 30, 2025 13:38 by Bob McCay
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270476770 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Small white heron, smaller than nearby snowy egrets, long green legs and bicolor bill. Flew upstream and settled into the top of the cypress on the south of the creek next to the boatyard."
Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 30, 2025 12:21 by Ann Stockert
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270479142 - Media: 14 Photos
- Comments: "Juvenile originally found by LH this morning. All white heron smaller than the nearby SNEG, with pale green legs, pale bass to the bill and dark tips to primaries. Photos"
Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 30, 2025 12:20 by Kaaren Perry
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270480205 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Medium sized white egret, distinguished from nearby SNEG by bi-colored bill, bluish-gray loral area, greenish yellow legs and feet and dusky outer primary tips seen on occasion as it foraged. Bird had been reported and photographed earlier, flown off for a while before returning to the original location. It moved alone slowly up and down stream foraging along the shallow shore. I made no attempt to report other species present"
Found earlier this morning, then flew and reappeared an hour or so later. I saw it among several other local birders. Photos later."
Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 30, 2025 11:40 by marlin harms
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270491978 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "I watched this juvenile foraging actively in the creek, then eventually stop to perch on a log and preen. With nearly all white feathering, it was distinguished from nearby Snowy Egrets by the bicolored bill, dark wingtips and greenish legs . It appeared very slightly smaller than nearby Snowy Egrets, which also showed more yellow at lores and had larger fleshy, yellow area around eyes."
Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) (1)
- Reported Aug 30, 2025 11:35 by Tom Edell
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270471063 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Juvenile bird found earlier in the morning that departed and then returned before noon. It was foraging with Snowy Egrets. Compared to them the Little Blue looked similar in size but with a thinner body. The most obvious differences were the bill and leg colors. The bill was blue-gray with a black outer half to third and the legs and feet with yellowish-green. It had a bright pale iris and a dark pupil. With the wings at rest the dark at the tips of the primaries was occasionally seen. Based on photos others had taken, the dusky primary tips were more obvious on the underwing than on the upper surface."
Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 30, 2025 11:19 by Alexander Yan
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270438656 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing white type bird in the creek originally found by Liam H this morning; distinctive bill with a black tip and bluish base. Greenish legs. Foraging in the creek with other herons."
Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) (1)
- Reported Aug 30, 2025 11:13 by Nick & Jane
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270457242 - Comments: "When I arrived, Petra and Jack Clayton had refound the bird just east of the footbridge, waving and pointing at its location in the creek, where it was stalking yummy fishy-froggy treats. The bird was continuing since earlier in the day when K.H. found it. It was obviously smaller and lankier than a snowy egret, had mostly white plumage, though its wings/primaries had a light dusky dusting. Its face also had some slight off-whiteness behind and above the eyes. Its legs were yellow-green, as were its featherless lores and the coloration around the base of its bill. The rest of its bill was blue-greyish and black-tipped. Its eyes appeared larger and far more piercing than that of a snowy egret, reminiscent of pale reddish egret eyes. The bird continued to forage and was at one time chased off by a snowy egret. Photos"
Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) (1)
- Reported Aug 30, 2025 08:43 by Theodor Geisel
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270561175 - Media: 8 Photos
- Comments: "Liam H. was first to pull a different bird from a busy Snowy Egret flock and suggest Little Blue Heron. Juvenile bird was all white, slender and noticeably smaller than nearby Snowy Egrets. The smaller head showed grayish lores and bright yellow iris bordered the dark pupil. The shorter (when compared to Snowy Egret), two-tone bill was pinkish/blue the first 2/3 of the bill length and black the final 1/3 to the bill tip. The legs and feet were a pale green which contrasted markedly with black and yellow legs and feet the Snowy Egrets. The bird was observed actively feeding mainly along north creek bank, sometimes loosely associating with the Snowy Egret flock and foraging alone at other times. During several short flights up and down the creek, darker tips to the primaries were seen. A Cooper's Hawk eventually flew in and drove all of the birds from the creek east of the footbridge. However, most of the birds, including the Little Blue Heron would return later."
Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) (1)
- Reported Aug 30, 2025 08:43 by Pair of Wing-Nuts
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270517281 - Media: 8 Photos
- Comments: "Liam H. was first to pull a different bird from a busy Snowy Egret flock and suggest Little Blue Heron. Juvenile bird was all white, slender and noticeably smaller than nearby Snowy Egrets. The smaller head showed grayish lores and bright yellow iris bordered the dark pupil. The shorter (when compared to Snowy Egret), two-tone bill was pinkish/blue the first 2/3 of the bill length and black the final 1/3 to the bill tip. The legs and feet were a pale green which contrasted markedly with black and yellow legs and feet the Snowy Egrets. The bird was observed actively feeding mainly along north creek bank, sometimes loosely associating with the Snowy Egret flock and foraging alone at other times. During several short flights up and down the creek, darker tips to the primaries were seen. A Cooper's Hawk eventually flew in and drove all of the birds from the creek east of the footbridge. However, most of the birds, including the Little Blue Heron would return later."
Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 30, 2025 08:39 by Ben Kolstad
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270409608 - Media: 8 Photos
- Comments: "Killian noticed the difference between this and the SNEGs nearby. Bill dipped in ink slightly dusky wing and no contrast between feet and legs. Note also dusky tips to primaries visible in photo 8."
Reddish Egret (Egretta rufescens) (1)
- Reported Aug 30, 2025 10:10 by Theodor Geisel
- Morro Bay Harbor, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.857&<ll...>,-120.857 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270561342 - Comments: "Continuing juvenile bird with pale pinkish-red head, neck and breast and chalky blue back. Observed about .6 miles SW of Sea Otter Pier (not USGS Pier) on opposite shore associating with other egrets. We would relocate to areas near Tideland Park to get better looks."
Reddish Egret (Egretta rufescens) (1)
- Reported Aug 30, 2025 10:10 by Pair of Wing-Nuts
- Morro Bay Harbor, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.857&<ll...>,-120.857 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270521709 - Comments: "Continuing juvenile bird with pale pinkish-red head, neck and breast and chalky blue back. Observed about .6 miles SW of Sea Otter Pier (not USGS Pier) on opposite shore associating with other egrets. We would relocate to areas near Tideland Park to get better looks."
Reddish Egret (Egretta rufescens) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 28, 2025 14:04 by Rod MacKenzie
- Morro Bay Harbor, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.857&<ll...>,-120.857 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270396860 - Comments: "Continuing juvenile on the beach across the harbor. It was characteristically dancing while feeding. It was a solid gray-brown larger than a Snowy Egret and smaller than a great."
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Stilt Sandpiper (Calidris himantopus) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 29, 2025 07:57 by Dana Bangs
- Turri Road Tidal Ponds, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8218378&<ll...>,-120.8218378 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270233147 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing bird right where previously reported. Dunlin-like Calidris though slightly larger with longer yellow legs (lower legs mostly underwater), bill with continuous "Dunlin" droop but longer, strong white supercilium, dirty streaked breast and head, and dark cleanly "scaled" back with clean white margins. White rump in flight. Presumed juveniles. See pics."
Stilt Sandpiper (Calidris himantopus) (2)
- Reported Aug 28, 2025 18:21 by Pair of Wing-Nuts
- Turri Road Tidal Ponds, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8218378&<ll...>,-120.8218378 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270286098 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Mid-sized shorebirds were larger than nearby Red-necked Phalarope and showed scaly back, large head with heavy, mid-length, slightly drooping bill, darker brown crown cap with white supercilium, brown streaking on neck and upper breast, spotting on sides and flanks and long greenish legs. Observed feeding in west pond nearest South Bay Blvd."
Semipalmated Sandpiper (Calidris pusilla) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 28, 2025 14:50 by Charles Ford
- Turri Road Tidal Ponds, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8218378&<ll...>,-120.8218378 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270150399 - Comments: "Juvenile with the Leasts in the pond closest to the main road. Scaly gray above (no reddish in the scaps like Western and no brown cast like Least). White below. Stubby straight bill. I managed some probably identifiable photos. Everything was scared up by a Peregrine and was lost."
Semipalmated Sandpiper (Calidris pusilla) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 28, 2025 14:50 by Anonymous eBirder
- Turri Road Tidal Ponds, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8218378&<ll...>,-120.8218378 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270280940 - Comments: "Juvenile with the Leasts in the pond closest to the main road. Scaly gray above (no reddish in the scaps like Western and no brown cast like Least). White below. Stubby straight bill. I managed some probably identifiable photos. Everything was scared up by a Peregrine and was lost."
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 28, 2025 13:10 by Charles Ford
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270150299 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing immature (juvenile, it appeared to not show any molt limits) flew in and perched in a tree upstream of the bridge. Smaller bill, longer tail apparent both in flight and while perched. Photographed."
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 28, 2025 13:10 by Anonymous eBirder
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270280927 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing immature (juvenile, it appeared to not show any molt limits) flew in and perched in a tree upstream of the bridge. Smaller bill, longer tail apparent both in flight and while perched. Photographed."
Reddish Egret (Egretta rufescens) (1)
- Reported Aug 28, 2025 14:04 by Charles Ford
- Morro Bay Harbor, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.857&<ll...>,-120.857 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270150356 - Comments: "Continuing juvenile on the beach across the harbor. It was characteristically dancing while feeding. It was a solid gray-brown larger than a Snowy Egret and smaller than a great."
Reddish Egret (Egretta rufescens) (1)
- Reported Aug 28, 2025 14:04 by Anonymous eBirder
- Morro Bay Harbor, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.857&<ll...>,-120.857 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270280934 - Comments: "Continuing juvenile on the beach across the harbor. It was characteristically dancing while feeding. It was a solid gray-brown larger than a Snowy Egret and smaller than a great."
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Solitary Sandpiper (Tringa solitaria) (1)
- Reported Aug 26, 2025 15:50 by Petra Clayton
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269752721 - Media: 16 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing juvenile since this morning (Kevin Zimmer).
It was resting in the creek east of the pedestrian bridge when we arrived, but eventually it stretched and started foraging in the algae-covered creek in the company of a Spotted Sandpiper and three Killdeer.
Overall bigger than the Spotted Sandpiper; conspicuous complete white eyering; two-tone straight bill, greenish at the base with a dark tip (terminal third of the bill); greenish-yellow legs; medium brown streaked breast; white belly and undertail; unmarked flanks; brown mantle with fine white spots; subtly bobbing, but not nearly as much as a Spotted Sandpiper.
Stilt Sandpiper (Calidris himantopus) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 28, 2025 09:17 by Virginia Langdon-Lassagne
- Turri Road Tidal Ponds, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8218378&<ll...>,-120.8218378 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270028976 - Media: 7 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing pair of juveniles, thickish, downcurved bill, back dramatically scalloped, legs yellow-green. Slightly larger than red-necked phalaropes, smaller-bodied than Killdeer. Dark stripe through eye, white supercillium. Photos."
Stilt Sandpiper (Calidris himantopus) (2)
- Reported Aug 27, 2025 12:35 by Jim Royer
- Turri Road Tidal Ponds, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8218378&<ll...>,-120.8218378 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270094703 - Comments: "Continuing birds in large pond farthest from South Bay Blvd. Juveniles with sharply defined feather edges above, upright posture, long legs, light supercilium and long slightly decurved bill. Clearly bigger than peeps present."
Stilt Sandpiper (Calidris himantopus) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 27, 2025 10:47 by Roger Zachary
- Turri Road Tidal Ponds, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8218378&<ll...>,-120.8218378 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269988778 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "continuing juveniles first reported here yesterday. Today on the eastern most tidal pond. Scaly appearance on back and wings, somewhat long dark bill with a slight droop at the tip, and longish yellow-green legs. (poor Photo)"
Stilt Sandpiper (Calidris himantopus) (2)
- Reported Aug 27, 2025 09:05 by Petra Clayton
- Turri Road Tidal Ponds, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8218378&<ll...>,-120.8218378 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269922553 - Media: 7 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing pair of juveniles since 8/25/25 (Reef Comer).
Observed foraging in the third (eastern-most) tidal pond. Recognized by their posture and feeding behavior: The slightly decurved bill is held pointing downward at a right angle to the line of the neck and back. Wading belly-deep in the water they were bending forward when probing, submerging head and neck in the water, causing the rump and tail to stick up.
Appearance includes a prominent white supercilium; slightly decurved black bill; wingtips extending beyond tail; scaly-patterned wings; spindly yellow-green legs.
Click on the image below for a Flickr video:
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jack-petra-clayton/54751554789/in/dateposted-public/" title="Stilt Sandpiper (Calidris himantopus), Los Osos, CA"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/54751554789_eacd37206b_z.jpg" alt="Stilt Sandpiper (Calidris himantopus), Los Osos, CA" /></a>"
Stilt Sandpiper (Calidris himantopus) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 26, 2025 17:05 by Petra Clayton
- Turri Road Tidal Ponds, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8218378&<ll...>,-120.8218378 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269752070 - Media: 6 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing pair of juveniles since 8/25/25 (Reef Comer). Possibly the same birds reported at Villa Creek yesterday morning. --- This morning we observed only one individual in the third (eastern-most) tidal pond.
This afternoon both were foraging in the same eastern-most pond. Recognized by their posture and feeding behavior: The slightly decurved bill is held pointing downward at a right angle to the line of the neck and back. Wading belly-deep in the water they were bending forward when probing, submerging head and neck in the water, causing the rump and tail to stick up.
Appearance includes a prominent white supercilium; slightly decurved black bill; wingtips extending beyond tail; scaly-patterned wings; spindly yellow-green legs.
Semipalmated Sandpiper (Calidris pusilla) (1)
- Reported Aug 28, 2025 14:50 by Jonathan Feenstra
- Turri Road Tidal Ponds, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8218378&<ll...>,-120.8218378 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270100641 - Comments: "Juvenile with the Leasts in the pond closest to the main road. Scaly gray above (no reddish in the scaps like Western and no brown cast like Least). White below. Stubby straight bill. I managed some probably identifiable photos. Everything was scared up by a Peregrine and was lost."
Semipalmated Sandpiper (Calidris pusilla) (1)
- Reported Aug 28, 2025 14:50 by Anonymous eBirder
- Turri Road Tidal Ponds, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8218378&<ll...>,-120.8218378 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270107249 - Comments: "Juvenile with the Leasts in the pond closest to the main road. Scaly gray above (no reddish in the scaps like Western and no brown cast like Least). White below. Stubby straight bill. I managed some probably identifiable photos. Everything was scared up by a Peregrine and was lost."
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1)
- Reported Aug 28, 2025 13:10 by Anonymous eBirder
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270107251 - Comments: "Continuing immature (juvenile, it appeared to not show any molt limits) flew in and perched in a tree upstream of the bridge. Smaller bill, longer tail apparent both in flight and while perched. Photographed."
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1)
- Reported Aug 28, 2025 13:10 by Jonathan Feenstra
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270100312 - Comments: "Continuing immature (juvenile, it appeared to not show any molt limits) flew in and perched in a tree upstream of the bridge. Smaller bill, longer tail apparent both in flight and while perched. Photographed."
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1)
- Reported Aug 28, 2025 09:40 by Kaaren Perry
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270071469 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing at this location. Not found in typical roost but rather roosting low along the creek side on a bolder. Possibly it had been replaced by the GREG seen in the sycamore during the viewing."
At first perched on the sycamore tree, about 100 yards up-creek from the pedestrian bridge, then flying down into the creek, where it did not stay very long before flying toward the beach with a number of gulls. Just when we were about to leave it came back and landed on its favorite perch on the sycamore tree. --- Seen from a distance: Dark head, neck and back; yellow gular patch; blue eyes."
Reddish Egret (Egretta rufescens) (1)
- Reported Aug 28, 2025 14:04 by Anonymous eBirder
- Morro Bay Harbor, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.857&<ll...>,-120.857 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270107250 - Comments: "Continuing juvenile on the beach across the harbor. It was characteristically dancing while feeding. It was a solid gray-brown larger than a Snowy Egret and smaller than a great."
Reddish Egret (Egretta rufescens) (1)
- Reported Aug 28, 2025 14:04 by Jonathan Feenstra
- Morro Bay Harbor, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.857&<ll...>,-120.857 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270100431 - Comments: "Continuing juvenile on the beach across the harbor. It was characteristically dancing while feeding. It was a solid gray-brown larger than a Snowy Egret and smaller than a great."
Cedar Waxwing (Bombycilla cedrorum) (2)
- Reported Aug 28, 2025 07:17 by Kathleen Kent
- Oakview Village, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.660672&<ll...>,-120.660672 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S270027974 - Comments: "Merlin picked up CEWA vocalizations several times in various locations. I tried to find the birds but was unsuccessful. I feel confident that they were present even though I had no visual confirmation. Note: my hearing is not good, and even with hearing aids, I can’t usually hear their very high pitched frequency."
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You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
White-winged Dove (Zenaida asiatica) (1)
- Reported Aug 27, 2025 09:00 by James Bland
- 424 LOVR, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8472972&<ll...>,-120.8472972 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269935946 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Feeding at a backyard platform feeder in the company of mourning doves and band-tailed pigeons. Large black and white wing patches apparent with wings open or closed. Raised tail abruptly when startled."
Solitary Sandpiper (Tringa solitaria) (1)
- Reported Aug 27, 2025 07:28 by Herb Elliott
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269906106 - Media: 7 Photos, 2 Audio
- Comments: "... found on 26 Aug 2025 by Kevin Zimmer and Gary Rosenberg - dark brownish upperparts, white underparts and white eye-ring; the bird vocalized several times."
Solitary Sandpiper (Tringa solitaria) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 26, 2025 13:00 by Jeanette Stone
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269850286 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Previously reported. Medium-sized Sandpiper with dark brown upperside and white spotting. White eyering, straight bill, white underside, and greenish-yellow legs. Photos."
Solitary Sandpiper (Tringa solitaria) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 26, 2025 10:43 by Gary Rosenberg
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269824237 - Media: 10 Photos
- Comments: "Juvenile, first found when it flew past us at ca. 1015h as we stood opposite the sycamore tree where the Neotropic Cormorant always perched. Dark, grayish-brown above (finely speckled with buff on the wing coverts, scapulars and tertials) and mostly white below, with grayish-brown, streaky smudging on the sides of the chest. Prominent white eye ring connected to the short, white, supraloral bar (the overall effect lending a white spectacled look. Innermost rectrices dark brown; outer rectrices mostly white, barred black. Underwing dark gray, barred with white on the coverts; rump dark. Legs olive-yellow; overall size larger than nearby Spotted Sandpiper, and with longer bill. Photos to follow shortly."
Solitary Sandpiper (Tringa solitaria) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 26, 2025 10:43 by Kevin Zimmer
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269772421 - Media: 10 Photos
- Comments: "Juvenile, first found when it flew past us at ca. 1015h as we stood opposite the sycamore tree where the Neotropic Cormorant always perched. Dark, grayish-brown above (finely speckled with buff on the wing coverts, scapulars and tertials) and mostly white below, with grayish-brown, streaky smudging on the sides of the chest. Prominent white eye ring connected to the short, white, supraloral bar (the overall effect lending a white spectacled look. Innermost rectrices dark brown; outer rectrices mostly white, barred black. Underwing dark gray, barred with white on the coverts; rump dark. Legs olive-yellow; overall size larger than nearby Spotted Sandpiper, and with longer bill. Photos to follow shortly."
Solitary Sandpiper (Tringa solitaria) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 26, 2025 00:05 by marlin harms
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269920247 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Juvenile foraging in the shallow water. Briefly stood quietly with bill over back surrounded by one of the creek plants. But then went back to foraging in the water."
Stilt Sandpiper (Calidris himantopus) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 27, 2025 11:00 by Wanda Lo
- Turri Road Tidal Ponds, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8218378&<ll...>,-120.8218378 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269907757 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "two birds seen at the large tidal pond farther from the South Bay Bridge. Accompanied by Yellow Legs. Pointed out by several birders and seen with scope. They were smaller than the Yellow Legs. At the distance from the road, they were darker grey than the Yellow Legs. The beaks of the Yellow Legs are two toned, whereas the Stilt Sandpiper had a solid black beak, slight decurved. Sub-par photo."
Stilt Sandpiper (Calidris himantopus) (2)
- Reported Aug 27, 2025 10:47 by Tom Edell
- Turri Road Tidal Ponds, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8218378&<ll...>,-120.8218378 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269936237 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "continuing juveniles first reported here yesterday. Today on the eastern most tidal pond. Scaly appearance on back and wings, somewhat long dark bill with a slight droop at the tip, and longish yellow-green legs. (poor Photo)"
Stilt Sandpiper (Calidris himantopus) (2)
- Reported Aug 27, 2025 07:05 by Andrew Fleming
- Turri Road Tidal Ponds, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8218378&<ll...>,-120.8218378 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269837812 - Comments: "Continuing pair of juveniles in the large far east pond. Bigger than the nearby red-necked phalaropes, but smaller than the killdeer. Long yellowish-green legs. Long bill with a slight droop. White undersides with scaly back."
Stilt Sandpiper (Calidris himantopus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 26, 2025 09:30 by Jeanette Stone
- Turri Road Tidal Ponds, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8218378&<ll...>,-120.8218378 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269852453 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Reported earlier in the morning by Tom Edell. Seen foraging on the edge of the most eastern pond. Long yellow-green legs, long, slightly curved bill. Photo"
Foraging by itself in the third (eastern-most) tidal pond. Recognized by its posture and feeding behavior: The slightly decurved bill is held pointing downward at a right angle to the line of the neck and back. Wading belly-deep in the water it was bending forward when probing, submerging head and neck in the water, causing the rump and tail to stick up.
Appearance includes a prominent white supercilium; slightly decurved black bill; wingtips extending beyond tail; scaly-patterned wings; spindly yellow-green legs.
Stilt Sandpiper (Calidris himantopus) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 25, 2025 19:31 by Pair of Wing-Nuts
- Turri Road Tidal Ponds, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8218378&<ll...>,-120.8218378 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269824271 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Based on comparative photos these juvenile birds are likely the same duo reported hours earlier at Villa Creek -- Estero Bluffs. The two were found at this location minutes earlier by Reef Comer who's alert made it possible for us to see these birds as darkness fell. Both mid-sized shorebirds were larger than nearby Red-necked Phalarope and showed scaly back, large head with heavy, mid-length bill about 1.25 x head length (front to back of head), brown crown cap with white supercilium, brown streaking on neck and upper breast, spotting on sides and flanks and long greenish legs. Observed feeding in west pond nearest South Bay Blvd."
Stilt Sandpiper (Calidris himantopus) (2)
- Reported Aug 25, 2025 19:19 by Reef Comer
- Turri Road Tidal Ponds, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8218378&<ll...>,-120.8218378 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269864559 - Comments: "Almost certainly same pair of juveniles seen just hours earlier at Villa! Looked like they were settling in to roost for the night. Dark checkered pattern to upperside, pale eyebrow, long slightly downcurved bill, long, yellowish-green legs, and bright white rump in flight. Longer legs caused them to lean much farther forward when feeding, with face in water."
Marbled Murrelet (Brachyramphus marmoratus) (1)
- Reported Aug 27, 2025 12:03 by Jay Carroll
- San Simeon Point, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1946398&<ll...>,-121.1946398 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269924483 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Scope views of a distant small alcid showing mostly dark upperparts with white throat, breast and sides; not enough detail to confirm if it had whitish scapulars; it had a hunched, short-necked appearance in profile with dark bill and short upturned tail that was white below; it remained in the same area for over an hour, diving occasionally in foraging bouts; poor photos."
Black Tern (Chlidonias niger) (1)
- Reported Aug 27, 2025 10:55 by Petra Clayton
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269923325 - Media: 9 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing juvenile since 8/25/25 (Nick Belardes)
Nick Belardes pointed out the tern as it was sitting on vegetation in the middle of the lake, viewed from the end of the paved loop in the park. We got good, albeit distant side and back views until it flew off.
Dark wings and back; white forehead, forecrown and nape; from the dark hindcrown there was a dark extension down the middle of the white nape and down to the auricular area, giving the appearance of a black skull cap; black bill. -
In flight the upper side of the wings were dark and the underside appeared to be light with a dark border along the outer edge, a dark leading edge and a dark patch at the shoulder.
Click on the image below for a Flickr video:
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jack-petra-clayton/54749833255/in/dateposted-public/" title="Black Tern (Chlidonias niger), Lagunal Lake, San Luis Obispo, CA"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/54749833255_30aa50ef7c_z.jpg" alt="Black Tern (Chlidonias niger), Lagunal Lake, San Luis Obispo, CA" /></a>"
Black Tern (Chlidonias niger) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 27, 2025 07:49 by Nick & Jane
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269894701 - Media: 12 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing juvenile first spotted on Aug. 25 (https://ebird.org/checklist/S269515661). Much smaller than a common tern. Larger than a least tern. First seen today at 9-ish am from where I stood on north side of lake near boat dock as it flew mostly between reed island and slightly east of boat ramp. At times it rapidly flew, quickly banking and diving, foraging low, sometimes five or so feet from the water, sometimes lower and grabbing a bite; always distant from me.
I left the area and came back three times, each time finding the bird either flying, or perched on a stick (or reed) in the water that is located in one of many patches of watergrass. The reed/stick/perch is in the center of the lake and best viewed from the paved loop area, and if looking out at the lake, is northeast of an orange buoy. Approximately here where it perches on floating stick/reed (35.2653043, -120.6890587).
The bird had dark grey upper wings, with blackish patches on its carpals, and also a dark grey-to-black mantle/back that formed a black partial ring around the upper back and down onto the sides of its neck. It had a medium-length black bill, black gradated helmet, white nape, forehead, chin and underside, and grey rump and grey tail. Its underwings were grey (appearing whitish pic), with dark primaries.
The bird sometimes had a lope-ish sort of flight, though it could be really quick at times, banking and diving, making amazingly fast acrobatic maneuvers. Sometimes, because of its dark coloration and size, I would lose sight of it amid the dark, shadowy water and reeds, or even the sometimes bright reflections on the water. I later got J. and P. onto the bird but soon needed pizza and had to go. photos"
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 27, 2025 07:49 by Nick & Jane
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269894701 - Media: 9 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing at creek mouth, sometimes solo, sometimes hanging out with a mallard, which was an interesting similar size comparison. Small cormorant with shorter bill than a double-crested cormorant. Dark feathering in lore areas. Photos"
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 26, 2025 10:43 by Kevin Zimmer
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269772421 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing juvenile, present at this site since 9 June. It was not present when we first arrived, and it did not appear until we were preparing to leave. Seen perched in its usual spot in the small sycamore."
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 26, 2025 10:43 by Gary Rosenberg
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269824237 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing juvenile, present at this site since 9 June. It was not present when we first arrived, and it did not appear until we were preparing to leave. Seen perched in its usual spot in the small sycamore."
American Redstart (Setophaga ruticilla) (1)
- Reported Aug 27, 2025 08:23 by Kevin Zimmer
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269925928 - Media: 11 Photos
- Comments: "Presumably the same adult male that was being seen here off and on throughout June and July. I believe this is the third year in a row that a male American Redstart has summered here. Both Gary and I took a lot of photos (to be uploaded soon), and Gary also recorded some whisper songs of the bird when it was singing down at eye-level."
American Redstart (Setophaga ruticilla) (1)
- Reported Aug 27, 2025 08:23 by Gary Rosenberg
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269929599 - Media: 11 Photos
- Comments: "Presumably the same adult male that was being seen here off and on throughout June and July. I believe this is the third year in a row that a male American Redstart has summered here. Both Gary and I took a lot of photos (to be uploaded soon), and Gary also recorded some whisper songs of the bird when it was singing down at eye-level."
Northern Parula (Setophaga americana) (1)
- Reported Aug 27, 2025 08:23 by Gary Rosenberg
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269929599 - Media: 8 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing male bird (one of two seen here in the past week), and seemingly the same individual that I photographed here on August 14 (albeit in freshly molted plumage), as evidenced by the presence of 2 plumage characters that struck me as atypical: a cinnamon wash down the flanks, and, a white supraorbital stripe that is continuous with the upper eye arc. Both Gary and I took lots of photos, and Gary also recorded some of its songs."
Northern Parula (Setophaga americana) (1)
- Reported Aug 27, 2025 08:23 by Kevin Zimmer
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269925928 - Media: 8 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing male bird (one of two seen here in the past week), and seemingly the same individual that I photographed here on August 14 (albeit in freshly molted plumage), as evidenced by the presence of 2 plumage characters that struck me as atypical: a cinnamon wash down the flanks, and, a white supraorbital stripe that is continuous with the upper eye arc. Both Gary and I took lots of photos, and Gary also recorded some of its songs."
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You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Solitary Sandpiper (Tringa solitaria) (1)
- Reported Aug 26, 2025 17:15 by Reef Comer
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269763446 - Comments: "Continuing juvenile from this morning. Medium- sized Tringa with dark brown upperside with fine white spotting, dark breast, vivid white eyering, straight bill, white underside, and greenish legs. Bobbed occasionally, but not nearly as often as nearby SPSA."
Solitary Sandpiper (Tringa solitaria) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 26, 2025 13:56 by Tom Edell
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269752742 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "One found earlier in the day was still present when I arrived. It foraged along the shoreline of a mid creek gravel island and in the water. Overall brown above and whit below with pale spots on the wings and back, bold white spectacles, a darkish bill and yellow-green legs (photos)"
Solitary Sandpiper (Tringa solitaria) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 26, 2025 12:03 by Nick & Jane
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269722813 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing juvenile shorebird found by K.Z. Birders were watching it forage in creek just east of bridge. Immediately noted its chunky but slender size—similar to a juvenile willet or lesser yellowlegs—its dark, white-speckled back, dark streaking on upper chest (otherwise white underside) and white eyering. Medium-long bill, slightly curved, dark-tipped, and more yellow-green toward base. Brown head, white lores—part of its spectacles—and white chin. Yellow-green legs. Foraging in creek the short time I was there. Didn’t hear it make any sounds as it slightly bobbed. Photo"
Solitary Sandpiper (Tringa solitaria) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 26, 2025 11:37 by Mark Mushkat
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269707813 - Comments: "Spotted by K Zimmer this morning. Apparently a juvenile, grayish green long legs, spotted upper wings, white eye spectacles, dark shoulders into neck. White belly, bill dark and about length of its head. Foraging next to SPSA for a great comparison of size, plumage, behavior. Slight teetering front and rear."
Stilt Sandpiper (Calidris himantopus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 26, 2025 08:35 by Kaaren Perry
- Turri Road, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.7948498&<ll...>,-120.7948498 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269733682 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Reported last evening. Medium sized shorebird walking along the waters edge, water often up to belly, pecking for food from the surface. Dark brown pale fringed upper parts , white belly, supercilium, bill long slender drooping near tip, long yellow legs.
No attempt to record other species present."
Stilt Sandpiper (Calidris himantopus) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 26, 2025 12:19 by Nick & Jane
- Turri Road Tidal Ponds, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8218378&<ll...>,-120.8218378 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269725776 - Media: 9 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing juvenile pair found by other birders. Possibly same pair from Villa Creek (just a guess). Both birds were seen foraging in eastern pond (pond before channel if driving eastward: (35.3346619, -120.8196504)). The birds stuck relatively close to each other, sometimes drifting apart, always coming back to each other, often bumping one other as if to say, “I’m here.” Both continuously foraged in the shallows, submerging their bills and sometimes entire heads similar to dowitchers plunging, and then probed like some sandpipers.
Each had long, droopy bills, yellow legs, bright white superciliums on mostly grey-brown scaly and streaky backs and chests and white underside plumage. One bird was slightly plumper and had a bit more rufous in its primaries. One had a darker crown. Both had heavily brown streaked chests and a buffy wash on undersides that were otherwise white. Lots of buff in the chest streaks and more buff wash into various back and facial feathers. The flanks were more spotted than streaky. The scaling was rather plain but lovely and somewhat uniform in some parts, and contrasted between dark scales and white feather edges. Heads and necks were finely streaked. The birds kept to themselves though a few times phalaropes got close.
Stilt Sandpiper (Calidris himantopus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 26, 2025 10:33 by Jay Carroll
- Turri Road Tidal Ponds, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8218378&<ll...>,-120.8218378 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269706320 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Two were reported at this location earlier, but only one was observed actively feeding in the open; a relatively long-legged wader with long slightly decurved bill, scalloped appearance to upperparts, white belly, smudgy streaking on breast, white supercilium, and dark lores; photos."
Stilt Sandpiper (Calidris himantopus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 26, 2025 07:33 by Tom Edell
- Turri Road Tidal Ponds, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8218378&<ll...>,-120.8218378 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269752770 - Media: 7 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing juvenile found here yesterday. Mid-sized sandpiper (smaller than Greater Yellowlegs and larger than Red-necked Phalarope) with longish yellow-green legs and a longish bill with a droop. Bird had a scaly back and wings, a white rump, dark line through the eye and a pale supercilium. (Photos)"
Stilt Sandpiper (Calidris himantopus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 26, 2025 07:33 by Mike Bush
- Turri Road Tidal Ponds, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8218378&<ll...>,-120.8218378 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269755253 - Media: 7 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing juvenile found here yesterday. Mid-sized sandpiper (smaller than Greater Yellowlegs and larger than Red-necked Phalarope) with longish yellow-green legs and a longish bill with a droop. Bird had a scaly back and wings, a white rump, dark line through the eye and a pale supercilium. (Photos)"
Stilt Sandpiper (Calidris himantopus) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 25, 2025 16:18 by Herb Elliott
- Villa Creek--Estero Bluffs State Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9688341&<ll...>,-120.9688341 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269584890 - Media: 10 Photos, 1 Audio
- Comments: "The first bird was reported earlier today by Bob McCay, mid afternoon Reef Comer reported the second bird.
Both juvenile birds were foraging and moving together. They looked similar to yellowlegs with shorter, down-curved bills and were feeding like dowitchers, probing with sewing-machine motion."
Stilt Sandpiper (Calidris himantopus) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 25, 2025 15:21 by Tom Edell
- Villa Creek--Estero Bluffs State Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9688341&<ll...>,-120.9688341 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269572487 - Media: 1 Video, 4 Photos
- Comments: "Two juveniles were at the creek mouth where they actively foraged together. Both were larger than adjacent Least Sandpipers and Red-necked Phalaropes. One seemed to have slightly brighter buff tertial edges and scapulars and the other had more fine streaks along the flanks and in the undertail coverts. Both had a dark line through the eye and a pale supercilium with streaked crowns and streaked buffy breasts. The dark bills were somewhat long, had a slight droop, and were slightly bulbous at the tip. There is a brief view of the white underwing coverts in the attached video.( Photos)"
Stilt Sandpiper (Calidris himantopus) (2)
- Reported Aug 25, 2025 15:10 by Reef Comer
- Villa Creek--Estero Bluffs State Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9688341&<ll...>,-120.9688341 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269591879 - Comments: "Following up on a report of one here from this morning, and was shocked to find 2!! Closely associating with each other. Both juveniles with scaly, dark patterning to upperside. Heavy set, slightly droopy bill, long greenish-yellow legs, and distinctive forward leaning feeding posture with face practically in water all noted. Bright white rump seen in flight. Gave a couple low, somewhat muffly flight calls. Later joined by T Edell and Herb. Very obliging birds. Have been hoping for one of these all summer!"
Black Tern (Chlidonias niger) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 26, 2025 08:03 by Tom Edell
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269752748 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Small tern first seen flying (smaller than Common Tern) and then landed on what looked like some sort of grass emerging from the lake. The bird was first seen flying back and forth across the lake before landing about 0.18 mile away. It was white below, with a pale forehead, and was pale around the dark eye. The dark rear crown thinned as it continued down the nape and had an extension that extended down behind the eye. There was a gray spur at the shoulder. At distance it appeared to have an all dark bill. The leg color was not determined. Photo"
Black Tern (Chlidonias niger) (1)
- Reported Aug 26, 2025 07:17 by Andrew Fleming
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269668039 - Comments: "Continuing Juvenile. Seen across the lake from the Prefumo Creek lot. I was able to watch it for a few minutes flying back and forth over the northwest part of the lake before it headed east out of sight. Small dark tern mostly flying with slower loping wingbeats, but sometime diving low and showing off some aerobatics. Dark grey-brown wings and back with white underbelly and neck. Black bill."
Black Tern (Chlidonias niger) (1)
- Reported Aug 25, 2025 12:50 by Reef Comer
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269587191 - Comments: "Continuing juvenile. Seen at quite a distance, flying around west end of lake, but eventually came a little closer. Very small tern with dark gray wings, brownish back, whitish underside, black ‘helmet’ extending to eye, and buoyant flight. Always a treat to see at the coast!"
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1)
- Reported Aug 24, 2025 09:50 by Petra Clayton
- Lila Keiser Park/Morro Creek, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.856743&<ll...>,-120.856743 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269333835 - Media: 8 Photos
- Comments: "Second year bird continuing since 6/9/25 (Tom Edell) with ten day absence from Morro Creek (8/12/25 to 8/22/25).
First-ever eBird report of this species at this eBird hotspot earlier tody (Steve Tillmann/Gabe Rudy). All other eBird reports were from the Morro Creek mouth eBird hotspot.
Observed on its favorite perch on the sycamore, about 100 yards up-creek from the pedestrian bridge, in the company of an American Crow and a Snowy Egret.
Dark head, neck and back; new feathers in the center of the tail; orange gular patch with a pale border forming a V at the gape; dark supraloral area; blue eyes.
Click on the image below for a Flickr video:
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jack-petra-clayton/54746979381/in/dateposted-public/" title="Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum), Morro Bay, CA"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/54746979381_309ebe54e4_z.jpg" alt="Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum), Morro Bay, CA" /></a>"
Flying down from the sycamore tree, about 100 yards up-creek from the pedestrian bridge into the creek, where it was feeding and catching at least one fish. Then it walked to a mud flat and briefly interacting with a Mallard there before returning to the creek and eventually flying off, heading north. --- Dark head, neck and back; new feathers in the center of the tail; orange gular patch with a pale border forming a V at the gape; dark supraloral area; blue eyes.
Click on the image below for a Flickr video, showing the Neotropic Cormorant feeding in the creek and walking on a mudflat, interacting with a Mallard:
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jack-petra-clayton/54745694729/in/dateposted-public/" title="Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum), Morro Bay, CA"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/54745694729_9072542f39_z.jpg" alt="Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum), Morro Bay, CA" /></a>"
Least Bittern (Botaurus exilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 25, 2025 12:21 by Eric Wier
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269658210 - Comments: "Heard only; 1 call during our time at this spot, coming from deep inside the reeds immediately to the east of where we were standing. This was the same spot where I photographed one flying to on Saturday."
Brewer's Sparrow (Spizella breweri) (1)
- Reported Aug 25, 2025 07:48 by Herb Elliott
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269584903 - Comments: "*Rare but regular. A complete shock! One bird flew from across the lake into willows here: (35.108772, -120.626970) before flying off. Small drab brown spizella with pale lores, finely streaked crown with very little or no central median crown stripe, uniform brown underparts, drab and not contrasty like CCSP. Appeared to be partially molting some feathers on face. Giving high pitched flight calls. Unfortunately flew off before we could get any pics."
Northern Parula (Setophaga americana) (2)
- Reported Aug 25, 2025 07:48 by Herb Elliott
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269584903 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "*Rare but regular. One continuing molting male near the Maintenance rd here (35.111206, -120.626215) plus new male near amphitheater here (35.110161, -120.628587). Small bright warblers with yellow breast, blue upperparts, greenish backs, orange spot in center of breast, white eye arcs, both singing distinctive buzzy song, etc. Pics."
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eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 8/26/25 4:18 pm From: njmann90 via groups.io <njmann50...> Subject: [slocobirding] Black headed Grosbeak
Yesterday, 25 Aug 2025, had a female Black headed Grosbeak on the feeder.
Migrant I assume for my area. Near SLO Vet's Hall
--
Nancy Jean Mann (It/It's)
San Luis Obispo
“I wish it need not have happened in my time," said Frodo.
"So do I," said Gandalf, "and so do all who live to see such times. But
that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with
the time that is given us.”
― J.R.R. Tolkien, The Fellowship of the Ring…
See more
Date: 8/25/25 10:01 pm From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [slocobirding] [eBird Alert] San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- Stilt Sandpiper (5 reports)
- Black Tern (6 reports)
- Neotropic Cormorant (3 reports)
- Least Bittern (1 report)
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Stilt Sandpiper (Calidris himantopus) (2)
- Reported Aug 25, 2025 19:45 by Gregory Smith
- Turri Road Tidal Ponds, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8218378&<ll...>,-120.8218378 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269582029 - Comments: "Smallish medium shorebird (smaller than a Lesser Yellowlegs) with a stout, slightly drooping bill. Longish, yellow-green legs. Grayish head with some brown highlights, whitish superciliary and dark lore. Whitish breast and belly with dark spotting on the upper breast. Classic shorebird scalloping on the the coverts, tertials and primaries. Did not get good looks at the vent."
Stilt Sandpiper (Calidris himantopus) (2)
- Reported Aug 25, 2025 16:21 by Kevin Zimmer
- Villa Creek--Estero Bluffs State Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9688341&<ll...>,-120.9688341 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269582132 - Comments: "Two juveniles, first reported by Reef Comer 1-2 hours earlier. When we first saw the birds, they were foraging in the kelp wrack on the beach near the creek mouth. They then flew back to the lagoon, where they foraged along the shoreline, and continually walked toward us, approaching to within 3-4 meters before flying. Photos to follow."
Stilt Sandpiper (Calidris himantopus) (2)
- Reported Aug 25, 2025 16:21 by Gary Rosenberg
- Villa Creek--Estero Bluffs State Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9688341&<ll...>,-120.9688341 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269583496 - Comments: "Two juveniles, first reported by Reef Comer 1-2 hours earlier. When we first saw the birds, they were foraging in the kelp wrack on the beach near the creek mouth. They then flew back to the lagoon, where they foraged along the shoreline, and continually walked toward us, approaching to within 3-4 meters before flying. Photos to follow."
Stilt Sandpiper (Calidris himantopus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 25, 2025 10:41 by Bob McCay
- Villa Creek--Estero Bluffs State Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9688341&<ll...>,-120.9688341 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269550745 - Media: 6 Photos
- Comments: "Juvenile plumage, long greenish legs, long heavy bill slightly curved. Feeding close to shore at the first part of the lagoon near the beach."
Black Tern (Chlidonias niger) (1)
- Reported Aug 25, 2025 07:33 by Nick & Jane
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269515661 - Media: 6 Photos
- Comments: "Juvenile. Much smaller than a common tern. Larger than a least tern. First seen at 10:20-ish am from north side of lake near boat dock as it flew east to west across lake, often along the north side, sometimes staying between boat dock and reed island, diving and foraging, often low, sometimes five or so feet from the water; always distant from me.
I first noticed a dark grey tern flying low over the lake. It was much smaller than nearby common terns, which were also foraging, and sometimes the bird trailed after them. The bird had grey upper wings, with blackish patches on its carpals, and also a dark grey mantle/back that formed a black partial ring around the upper back and down onto the sides of its neck. It had a medium-length black bill, black gradated helmet, white nape, forehead, chin and underside, and grey rump and grey tail. Its underwings were grey (appearing white in one over-exposed pic), with dark primaries. The bird had a very lope-ish sort of flight, though it could be really quick at times, and sometimes because of its dark coloration and size, was sometimes lost amid the dark, shadowy water and reeds, or even the sometimes bright reflections on the water.
Last seen (had to leave) from homeowner yard near creek mouth at 10:58 a.m. flying, circling 60-70 up over east lake. Often loosely associated with common tern flock, I'd by this time seen it in the east lake area, flying west over the lake, and sometimes circling low over the waters just east of the reed island. Hard to say where the best vantage point might be. My best photo was from an open area just east of the boat ramp on the north side of the lake. South lake views were always extremely distant. This is the first report of this species at this location, and first recorded "inland" in SLO County since August 2020. photos"
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 25, 2025 07:33 by Nick & Jane
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269515661 - Media: 17 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing juvenile first discovered by K.Z. on August 22, 2025. It hadn't been seen since its initial discovery. Seen at creek mouth next to a much larger double-crested cormorant. I'm assuming that this is the same bird. I'm not seeing any differences in glancing at K.Z.'s photos, though the moderator may want to study them for any particular face, wing or tail differences, if possible. The bird was often preening or spreading its wings, and one time pooped. Other than being a noticeably small cormorant compared to those nearby, especially the one next to it, its bill was short and less hooked than nearby cormorants, its tail proportionately longer than a double-crested, and it had a distinct rounded head. There was no yellow patch in the supraloral area, which appeared brownish and feathered. photos and short, blurry poo-vid.
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 24, 2025 08:38 by Gabriel Rudy
- Lila Keiser Park/Morro Creek, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.856743&<ll...>,-120.856743 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269549618 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing bird (Tom Edell 06.09.25) - Viewed from up creek perched in its usual location on creek side branch of sycamore tree on the north side of the creek about 400 feet up stream from creek mouth pedestrian bridge. The bird showed mostly dark plumage except for white mottling on breast that is becoming darker overall. The lower mandible was pale yellow towards tip and darker yellow at the rear of a sharply angled gular patch with faint outline in corner. Upper mandible pale gray. New tail feathers appeared dark brown and feet were black."
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 24, 2025 08:38 by Pair of Wing-Nuts
- Lila Keiser Park/Morro Creek, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.856743&<ll...>,-120.856743 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269379797 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing bird (Tom Edell 06.09.25) - Viewed from up creek perched in its usual location on creek side branch of sycamore tree on the north side of the creek about 400 feet up stream from creek mouth pedestrian bridge. The bird showed mostly dark plumage except for white mottling on breast that is becoming darker overall. The lower mandible was pale yellow towards tip and darker yellow at the rear of a sharply angled gular patch with faint outline in corner. Upper mandible pale gray. New tail feathers appeared dark brown and feet were black."
Least Bittern (Botaurus exilis) (1)
- Reported Aug 25, 2025 12:21 by Kevin Zimmer
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269584258 - Comments: "Heard only; 1 call during our time at this spot, coming from deep inside the reeds immediately to the east of where we were standing. This was the same spot where I photographed one flying to on Saturday."
***********
You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 8/24/25 8:26 pm From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [slocobirding] [eBird Alert] San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- King Eider (3 reports)
- Neotropic Cormorant (16 reports)
- Least Bittern (2 reports)
- Cedar Waxwing (1 report)
- Mourning Warbler (1 report)
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1)
- Reported Aug 23, 2025 10:35 by Elena Oey
- Pasadena Park Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8440733&<ll...>,-120.8440733 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269105963 - Comments: "Continuing female North of oyster farms. Alone diving and twice fluttered wings and raised up. Fog rolled preventing photos and lost the bird. Large brown duck with unique shape. Too far out to see much plumage detail."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1)
- Reported Aug 23, 2025 10:35 by Daniel Farrar
- Pasadena Park Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8440733&<ll...>,-120.8440733 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269105961 - Comments: "Continuing female North of oyster farms. Alone diving and twice fluttered wings and raised up. Fog rolled preventing photos and lost the bird. Large brown duck with unique shape. Too far out to see much plumage detail."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 23, 2025 07:53 by Pair of Wing-Nuts
- Pasadena Park Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8440733&<ll...>,-120.8440733 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269112038 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing bird (Brian O'Kelly & Alexander Yan - 8.17.25) - Female showed lighter, buff brown head, white upper eye arc that faded as it curved onto neck, heavy, sloped, all black bill with base that bisected cheek creating appearance of a "smile." This sea duck was darker buff brown on breast with slightly darker brown patterned back. When the bird extended it wings to flap several times, the wings appeared almost transparent due to current molt stage. Observed swimming into the oyster farm from the west and later observed loafing on the south side of the nearest oyster farm rigging towards the east end before swimming to the north towards the harbor."
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1)
- Reported Aug 22, 2025 08:15 by Kevin Zimmer
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269135380 - Media: 12 Photos
- Comments: "A juvenile bird, which stood out immediately from among the many nearby Double-crested Cormorants, by virtue of its small overall size, more slender build, proportionately longer tail, more rounded profile to the head, and more slender bill, with a less pronounced hook at the tip. The orange-yellow gular pouch was narrower and acutely pointed at the rear, and was narrowly bordered by white feathering. The supraloral region was feathered and dark brown, lacking any obvious bare patch of yellow-orange skin. Irides were green. This appeared to me to be a different individual from the one that has been hanging out at Morro Creek mouth in Morro Bay since June 9. The tail of this bird was in much better shape than the tail of the Morro Creek bird was (at least the last time I saw it). The cormorant remained at this site for the entirety of the time I was there, and I was able to point it out to the other observers as they filtered in. It was still there when I left, and about 10 minutes later, I saw a text to the WhatsApp group, that the Morro Creek bird was present at its usual spot, which seemed to confirm that my bird represented a 2nd individual. This would make it only the 2nd individual ever recorded in San Luis Obispo County."
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1)
- Reported Aug 24, 2025 07:31 by Tom Edell
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269306556 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "This bird flew in and perched in the sycamore for a while, but later flew down to the creek where it captured at least one fish. It then flew around and back to its favored perch in the sycamore. (Photos)"
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 24, 2025 06:06 by The Spotting Twohees
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269312615 - Media: 6 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing. Flew from creek mouth by the footbridge at 6:33 am. Was going to land in its usual perch but got chased away by a Coopers Hawk that landed in its spot."
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 23, 2025 11:17 by Pair of Wing-Nuts
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269181874 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing bird (Tom Edell 06.09.25) - Head, neck, lores and body mostly dark brown except for white breast mottling. Lower mandible pale yellow towards tip and darker yellow at the rear of a sharply angled gular patch with faint outline in corner. Upper mandible pale gray. Long, new tail feathers have molted in and feet and legs were black. Observed repeatedly perching in sycamore tree up-creek from bridge between flights to the creek where it successfully captured fish on multiple trips. The bird vocalized with short croaking calls on two occasions during our visit."
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 23, 2025 11:16 by Tom Edell
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269074490 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "continuing immature. It was perched in the usual sycamore tree when I arrived and was tolerant of everyone across the creek from it. Twice while I was here it flew down into the creek, foraged for a short time, flew up creek, and then returned down creek to perch in the sycamore. Not certain, but it appears to have dropped all of its ragged tail feathers; it has tail feathers of various lengths. Otherwise, it had a small yellow-orange gular pouch and bill, but no yellow in the lores. The gular patch ended in an acute angle. The lower edge seems less outlined with white than on previous visits. (photos)"
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 23, 2025 10:50 by Petra Clayton
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269103920 - Media: 13 Photos
- Comments: "Second year bird continuing since 6/9/25 (Tom Edell) with ten day absence from this location (8/12/25 to 8/22/25).
When we arrived it was perched in the sycamore tree, about 100 yards up-creek from the pedestrian bridge. It flew off towards the pedestrian bridge twice to feed further down in the creek, catching some small fish. Each time it returned to the sycamore tree and preened. It did not seem to be disturbed by the two loud siren testings and a crowd of more than twenty birders below is perch. --- Dark head, neck and back; the tail feathers seemed less ragged and the outer tail feathers were shorter than the center tail feathers; orange gular patch with a pale border forming a V at the gape; dark supraloral area; blue eyes; black legs."
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 23, 2025 08:12 by Petra Clayton
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269119311 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Second year bird continuing since 6/9/25 (Tom Edell) with ten day absence from this location (8/12/25 to 8/22/25)
Flying in to the sycamore tree, about 100 yards up-creek from the pedestrian bridge and then preening. --- Dark head, neck and back; new feathers in the center of the tail; orange gular patch with a pale border forming a V at the gape; dark supraloral area; blue eyes."
Least Bittern (Botaurus exilis) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 22, 2025 08:15 by Kevin Zimmer
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269135380 - Media: 6 Photos
- Comments: "At least 2 present, only 1 of which was seen. I heard 2 calling from widely separated areas, off and on for about an hour, but always buried in the reeds. Eventually, Jack spotted an adult male, perched at the edge of the reeds, about 3 feet above the water. I was just getting on the bird with my camera, when it launched into flight, and flew across the water, towards us, and disappeared into the reeds. Tiny heron (smaller than Green Heron), with bright yellow legs and bill; dark back and remiges, with contrasting buff upper wing-coverts; and whitish breast streaked with buff. Unfortunately, I had my camera settings adjusted for a perched bird in the shade, but it flew out into the bright sunlight just as I was starting to photograph, so my photos are very marginal, due to overexposure and slow shutter speed. Right after this bird flew toward us and disappeared into the nearer reed bed to our right, the second bird vocalized again from the same area well off to the left, where I had been hearing it from off and on."
Cedar Waxwing (Bombycilla cedrorum) (1)
- Reported Aug 24, 2025 06:37 by Matt Morrison
- 5320 Maleza Ave, Atascadero US-CA 35.49003, -120.65142, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.65142&<ll...>,-120.65142 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269218629 - Comments: "This bird was feeding on berries in our hedgerow. It is odd there was only one and this early in the year. They usually show up in early fall every 2-3 years in a group of 15-20."
Mourning Warbler (Geothlypis philadelphia) (1)
- Reported Aug 23, 2025 08:58 by Herb Elliott
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269087874 - Comments: "I had just left the parking lot after chatting with Chis and KH, when KH texted me that he and Chris had a Mourning Warbler. I returned within a few minutes and we heard the bird’s ‘chip’ call several times ~ 10:58. Chris, KH., and I moved farther into the willows, but didn’t relocate the bird."
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eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1)
- Reported Aug 22, 2025 09:10 by Petra Clayton
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268865725 - Media: 6 Photos
- Comments: "Already spotted by Kevin Zimmer when we arrived. - First-ever eBird report of this species at this eBird hotspot.
Noticeably smaller than nearby Double-crested Cormorants.
Dark head, neck and back; orange gular patch, which was fluttering a lot in an effort to stay cool; a pale border formed a V at the gape; dark supraloral area; blue eyes; dark legs; seemed to favor the left leg. Mostly preening on the mud flat in the company of Double-crested Cormorants, White Pelicans, a Spotted Sandpiper, to name a few.
Least Bittern (Botaurus exilis) (2)
- Reported Aug 23, 2025 07:37 by Nick & Jane
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269044201 - Comments: "Of course, after hours on south lake hoping for bitterns or the rare cormorant, soon as I walked in to the north lake paved loop clearing by the tree to scope the lake, a bittern called from the shoreline reeds in front of me on my right: “Kyaakakakakak!” Immediately, came an exact response from reeds in front of me to my left. No recording."
Least Bittern (Botaurus exilis) (1)
- Reported Aug 22, 2025 09:10 by Petra Clayton
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268865725 - Media: 6 Photos
- Comments: "Observed and heard from the empty lot at the Prefumo Creek mouth, possibly two as the vocalization came from a more western section of the reeds. - It was briefly perched across from us at the edge of the reeds on the north side of the lake, before flying towards us to the reeds on the south side.
Overall appeared to be smaller and lighter in color than a juvenile Green Heron. Viewed from the front the underparts from neck to belly with were light buff-colored with some stripes; reddish-brown face and shoulder; dark crow; yellow legs. - In flight the coverts were buffy and the remiges dark.
Click on the image below for a Flickr video:
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jack-petra-clayton/54738834304/in/dateposted-public/" title="Least Bittern (Ixobrychus exilis), Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, CA"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/54738834304_7d28e01d69_z.jpg" alt="Least Bittern (Ixobrychus exilis), Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, CA" /></a>"
Reddish Egret (Egretta rufescens) (1)
- Reported Aug 22, 2025 15:45 by Tom Edell
- South T-Pier (35.369, -120.856), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8559085&<ll...>,-120.8559085 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269074576 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "One seen from the South T-Pier reported earlier by Jay Carroll. When I arrived Jay pointed out the egret which was actively foraging, including hooding its wings, along the edge of the bay. It continued to move into the bay while in view. It looked like the previously reported bird at Villa Creek and last at Santa Rosa Creek. Overall a long-legged and long-necked bluish-gray bird with dark legs and a long stout dark bill. It was too distant to seen any markings on the bill, the eye color, or fine plumage detail. (Photo)"
Mourning Warbler (Geothlypis philadelphia) (1)
- Reported Aug 23, 2025 10:17 by Chris Henry
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S269047355 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Insane, as we watched the MacGillivray’s Warbler forage down the creek and out of sight. We then saw what at first glance we thought was another Macky but once we got our bins on it we realized what we had found. “Holy shit I think that’s a Mourning” “Fuck” We then watched it forage a few feet above the creek in the largest bush of fennel. KH managed to get identifiable pics. Over the next hour over 15 people showed up without any views, however we did hear it at 10:58 and just before I left around 11:45. Wow! Hanging around here (35.376443, -120.860232)"
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You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
Curlew Sandpiper (Calidris ferruginea) (1)
- Reported Aug 21, 2025 12:24 by Nick & Jane
- Morro Bay SP--Marina/Boardwalk Trail, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8418006&<ll...>,-120.8418006 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268682163 - Media: 7 Photos
- Comments: "Juvenile. Spotted this bird at around 1:30 p.m. in the slowly rising tide along the shoreline mudflats off the southwest end of the boardwalk (I was standing near the bench).
I first noticed the plump size of a fluffing, preening and sometimes resting bird, and that it was dunlinesque in shape and size, larger than nearby western and least sandpipers.
Its long bill appeared more uniform in thickness and more downcurved and thinner than that of a dunlin. I also noted three main field marks: white rump, overall black and brown uniform scaliness (except for small upper back scaling), and rufous upper back scales (Overall similar juvenile plumage in dunlins would have much more rufous scaling on back and wings, and some white edges to scales, and rump would be bisected with dark feathers).
Other noted fieldmarks, white chin, a supercilium not seen in these poor photos, a bright white underside, a slight buffy to its upper chest streaking, and it’s posture was more upright than a dunlin.
No Dunlins have been reported in SLO County in August. Distant photos, cropped, and originals, and a few others. Waited to hear opinions from some birders and an ornithologist before posting.
Curlew Sandpiper last seen in California in San Diego on July 31, 2024. This looks to be a first county record and 80th California record if confirmed."
Semipalmated Sandpiper (Calidris pusilla) (1)
- Reported Aug 20, 2025 08:20 by Petra Clayton
- Cayucos Pier, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9069453&<ll...>,-120.9069453 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268521252 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing since 8/18/25 (Herb Elliott, K.H.)
Lighter scaly back than that of the nearby Western Sandpiper; white underparts with a light buff-colored breast band and brownish streaks at the shoulder; finely streaked light-brown crown; pale supercilium; brownish patch in the auricular area and brownish line from the eye to the bill; short black bill, straight and with a blunt tip; black legs."
American Herring Gull (Larus smithsonianus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 21, 2025 08:38 by Herb Elliott
- West Hazard Canyon--Montana de Oro SP, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8812916&<ll...>,-120.8812916 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268642737 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "*Rare summer, presumably the same 4th-cycle bird seen on the Sandspit on July 31st. Medium-sized Larus with pale gray mantle, bright pink legs, pale iris, faint head streaking, etc. Rather tame. Feeding with other gulls at the entrance to the beach. Pics"
Least Bittern (Botaurus exilis) (2)
- Reported Aug 22, 2025 09:32 by Eric Wier
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268850189 - Comments: "One bird was perched high in reeds. Its whitish breast, with dark streaks, was clearly visible through Kevin’s scope. In Petra’s photo, some orange-brown color bordering the breast was noticeable. A second bird, about 100 meters away, called “kak-kak-kak-kak-kak.”"
Least Bittern (Botaurus exilis) (2)
- Reported Aug 21, 2025 10:05 by Roger Hammer
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268754747 - Comments: "Cont. birds. Got intel from Anonymous that helped know which bird call to listen for and where to look. Reef and I spotted two birds and distinguished adult male with black back and cap from another female or immature male bird without. Saw one bird fly into north tule while hearing another kyakkyak calling from the west tule island. Birds never perched for us, but we got satisfying flying views for several seconds each time twice for each individual."
Least Bittern (Botaurus exilis) (2)
- Reported Aug 21, 2025 09:35 by Reef Comer
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268687326 - Comments: "Continuing in large tule island viewed from empty lot on Vista Del Lago. Tiny, overall orangish buffy herons with yellowish bill and rapid wingbeats. Quick, but multiple definitive views of 2 distinct individuals as they flew between reed patches. One was a definite male, with all black back and cap. The other, either a female or immature, was much buffier overall, especially on back and wings. Occasionally vocalizing, which sounded similar to VIRA (There was a Virginia grunting, but not on the island, where the bitterns were frequenting). Possibly last year’s birds, but tough to say. Probably a lot more at this lake we’re not seeing. Not long after arriving, I saw a bird I’m almost certain was another LEBI flying along the far NW edge of the lake, but couldn’t confirm."
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 8/21/25 4:07 pm From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [slocobirding] [eBird Alert] San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- King Eider (7 reports)
- Lucy's Warbler (2 reports)
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 21, 2025 09:24 by Barry Langdon-Lassagne
- Pasadena Park Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8440733&<ll...>,-120.8440733 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268620562 - Media: 8 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing pale brown-grey sea duck, long in body, face with characteristic bulge at base of bill. Seen swimming parallel to oyster bed, on the Morro Bay side. Photos"
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 21, 2025 09:24 by Virginia Langdon-Lassagne
- Pasadena Park Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8440733&<ll...>,-120.8440733 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268620561 - Media: 8 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing pale brown-grey sea duck, long in body, face with characteristic bulge at base of bill. Seen swimming parallel to oyster bed, on the Morro Bay side. Photos"
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 19, 2025 18:35 by Petra Clayton
- Pasadena Park Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8440733&<ll...>,-120.8440733 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268344323 - Media: 9 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing since 8/17/2025 (Brian O'Kelly & Alexander Yan).
Female-like plumaged. Viewed through a scope as it moved behind and around the poles of the oyster farm's back-bed. It was frequently diving while actively feeding. It was also raising up and flapping its wings when apparently bathing. It subsequently moved onto a floating dock, where it was preening for an extended length of time, eventually in the company of gulls and Brown Pelicans. When the dock finally got too crowded, it took to the water again and swam away. --- Overall brown, about the size of a Mallard. Very noticeable was a white stripe on the side and, when flapping its wings, there was a light-colored patch on the underside of the wing. When seen in profile, the bill-shape was unlike a Mallard's in that it seemed shorter and the forehead was sloping down to the bill in a more straight line.
Click on the image below for a YouTube video, showing the King Eider feeding and preening:
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BzYWPfE_S-o?si=JpP0HcpEUTsPDRhs" frameborder="0"></iframe>
This is the second record for San Luis Obispo County. The first county record was accepted by the California Bird Records Committee, when a female was present from 28 October 28, 1985 to February 17, 1986."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1)
- Reported Aug 19, 2025 06:35 by Gregory Smith
- Pasadena Park Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8440733&<ll...>,-120.8440733 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268498079 - Comments: "Continuing large sea duck with medium brown female plumage that appeared lighter on the rounded head. Sloping forehead with a small, blackish bill. Was swimming out towards the oyster farm and seen with bins and my scope. I saw the '84 bird and have seen numerous birds up around Norton Sound, AK."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1)
- Reported Aug 18, 2025 08:17 by Kevin Zimmer
- Pasadena Park Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8440733&<ll...>,-120.8440733 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268508036 - Comments: "Continuing female, first discovered yesterday, and still present at the same locale where it was put to bed last night. Large, pallid brown female Eider with rounded profile to the head and relatively small (compared to a female Common Eider) bill, with scooped profile (not straight slope like a Common Eider). I see hundreds of female King and Common eiders every May-June in Alaska, and head/bill shape are diagnostic. This particular individual was in heavy wing molt, and is almost certainly flightless, so it will probably be hanging around this area for some time. I got some distant but identifiable photos, which I will post later."
Lucy's Warbler (Leiothlypis luciae) (1)
- Reported Aug 20, 2025 10:44 by Herb Elliott
- Arroyo Grande HS, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.575839&<ll...>,-120.575839 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268485118 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "… small, plain looking warbler with grayish upperparts, white eyerings, and whitish underparts.
Found earlier this morning by KH, who was there when I arrived and relocated the bird."
Lucy's Warbler (Leiothlypis luciae) (1)
- Reported Aug 20, 2025 16:41 by Alexander Yan
- Arroyo Grande High School, Arroyo Grande US-CA 35.11515, -120.57593, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.575926&<ll...>,-120.575926 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268499620 - Comments: "Continuing bird found this morning by Killian H. Found around 35.11422° N, 120.57552° W before it flew west towards the sports fields with another small bird. Hyperactive, pale warbler that barely vocalized maybe twice. Some sort of a white eye ring and obvious white belly. Round body with a grey bill."
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You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 8/20/25 2:37 pm From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [slocobirding] [eBird Alert] San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- King Eider (7 reports)
- Semipalmated Sandpiper (4 reports)
- Least Bittern (1 report)
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 19, 2025 18:00 by The Spotting Twohees
- Pasadena Park Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8440733&<ll...>,-120.8440733 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268342988 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing bird found 8/17
Swam into the Oyster Farm area at 6:30 pm. Preened for a while and then went for another swim as the sun was going down. Sloping forehead to bill. Very worn wing feathers. Brownish overall with white on wing feathers/shafts."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 19, 2025 07:30 by Jacqueline Knowlton
- Pasadena Park Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8440733&<ll...>,-120.8440733 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268336025 - Comments: "Continuing bird. The brown duck with notably sloped forehead/bill was resting on one of the oyster farm buoys. The bill was small and black, and it appeared to have a a grin. The wing-edges bore a white stripe, and there was a white mark on either side of the gape. Many thanks to Andrew Fleming for finding the bird with his scope today and kindly inviting me to look through it."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 18, 2025 17:20 by Norman Pillsbury
- Pasadena Park Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8440733&<ll...>,-120.8440733 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268338063 - Media: 8 Photos
- Comments: "Brown and buffy brown breast. Medium or small head sloping to a brown bill, faint light mark over eye, molting, fairly prominent white on left wing. Located on raft strips in oyster farm. Distant shots (1380 ft into the sun). Found by Yan and O'Kelly. Great catch!"
Semipalmated Sandpiper (Calidris pusilla) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 19, 2025 07:44 by Tom Edell
- Cayucos Pier, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9069453&<ll...>,-120.9069453 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268274192 - Media: 1 Video, 2 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing juvenile. From pier, scoped foraging along the edge of the Cayucos Creek lagoon with a juvenile Western Sandpiper. From the pier I suspected it was a Semipalmated because it was small than the Western Sandpiper and picking food from surface rather than probing like the Western. After leaving the pier, I met Marlin H. who had last seen the Semi foraging on the beach."
Least Bittern (Botaurus exilis) (1)
- Reported Aug 20, 2025 08:10 by Anonymous eBirder
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268467819 - Comments: "Male (young male?) seen and heard in reeds, south lake, from Prefumo Creek Mouth. I’d been hearing the call my last few outings here, but it had been more distant. Today I heard the call much closer: “Kyaakakakakak!” It called once, and then the search was on. I finally spotted a tiny orange bittern, a bit larger than a female grackle, facing south from distant island reeds. It perched for a few minutes, where I noted several fieldmarks, then it flew across the channel into reeds on the south bank. The bird appears to possibly be a young male, though aging the bird proves difficult. When it flew, it had white underwings and long black outer primaries and secondaries. Its wings were otherwise bright orange. Its crown was blackish, and its back was orange to rusted brown. Its neck and chin was striped with white and orange, and the lower belly was white. Its sides, and neck flanks were orange. The bill had dark and orange patches, though when the bird flew the bill appeared more orange overall. Patches of yellow surrounded the eyes and lores. Distant photos and maybe a vid still."
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You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 17, 2025 19:26 by Eric Wier
- 1119 Pasadena Dr, Los Osos US-CA (35.3316,-120.8427), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.842726&<ll...>,-120.842726 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268119374 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Found today by Alexander Yan and Brian O’Kelly. Large, brown sea duck preening on wooden structure at water level. Bird had scaly patterned underparts, white primaries which created the appearance of a white lateral stripe; whitish “wingpits” (observed when bird flapped it’s wings); and a black bill"
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 18, 2025 06:36 by Ann Stockert
- 1137 Pasadena Dr, Los Osos US-CA (35.3313,-120.8432), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.843218&<ll...>,-120.843218 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268116226 - Media: 6 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing, originally observed 8/17 from the boardwalk by Alex. Great views through scope but terrible photos. Female in molt with primaries very bleached out and ragged looking. 7 other birders present."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 17, 2025 18:38 by Herb Elliott
- Morro Bay SP--Marina/Boardwalk Trail, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8418006&<ll...>,-120.8418006 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S267978150 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "... overall warm brown plumage lighter on the head, rounded head shape and a short bill; observed via scope off the boardwalk as the bird swam in the estuary near the oyster farm. It was later observed across the bay from Pasadena Park Overlook.
First reported by Alexander Yan and Brian O'kelly. It's the second county record; the first was recorded between 10/28/1985-2/17/1986 near the same location."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1)
- Reported Aug 18, 2025 19:00 by Tom Slater
- Pasadena Drive, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8434961&<ll...>,-120.8434961 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268294693 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Large, brown duck with a relatively small bill, blending and sloping from the top of the head. White underwing. Would swim and then rear up constantly. Apparently a worn female. Roosts on a submerged feature, with many pelicans. Scope needed."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1)
- Reported Aug 18, 2025 08:05 by Roger Zachary
- Pasadena Drive- Bay Overlook, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8427307&<ll...>,-120.8427307 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268136327 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "I arrived just in time and appreciated the help of other birders that directed me to see the bird swimming away into the middle of the bay. Long shot image and not much field marks but it was the female King Eider"
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1)
- Reported Aug 19, 2025 07:16 by Andrew Fleming
- Pasadena Park Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8440733&<ll...>,-120.8440733 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268248077 - Comments: "Continuing female. Spotted using scope sitting on one of the oyster farm buoys The farm closest to the marina /boardwalk. Would be visible from there too. Was near a large orange ball buoy. Large buff brown duck with lumpy head, black bill with unique smile shape."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1)
- Reported Aug 18, 2025 19:40 by Stephanie Little
- Pasadena Park Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8440733&<ll...>,-120.8440733 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268282989 - Comments: "Continuing bird originally found by Brian and Alexander. I arrived at 7:40 p.m. so light was waning. The duck had been preening prior to my arrival but had just moved into the water to feed again when I saw it first in the scope. Large, brown sea duck with small, sloping head. Bill was dark in the scope, relatively small. Decent views in the scope given light, but my photos are horrible. Bird’s feeding behavior was fun to watch, diving to feed, quickly returning to the surface, popping its body high out of the water, and then diving again, to be repeated over and over. It stayed fairly close to the oyster farm structure the entire time we watched it, for ~30 minutes."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1)
- Reported Aug 18, 2025 19:40 by Carrie Miller
- Pasadena Park Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8440733&<ll...>,-120.8440733 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268272814 - Comments: "Continuing bird originally found by Brian and Alexander. I arrived at 7:40 p.m. so light was waning. The duck had been preening prior to my arrival but had just moved into the water to feed again when I saw it first in the scope. Large, brown sea duck with small, sloping head. Bill was dark in the scope, relatively small. Decent views in the scope given light, but my photos are horrible. Bird’s feeding behavior was fun to watch, diving to feed, quickly returning to the surface, popping its body high out of the water, and then diving again, to be repeated over and over. It stayed fairly close to the oyster farm structure the entire time we watched it, for ~30 minutes."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1)
- Reported Aug 18, 2025 19:40 by KRISTI LUND
- Pasadena Park Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8440733&<ll...>,-120.8440733 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268279288 - Comments: "Continuing bird originally found by Brian and Alexander. I arrived at 7:40 p.m. so light was waning. The duck had been preening prior to my arrival but had just moved into the water to feed again when I saw it first in the scope. Large, brown sea duck with small, sloping head. Bill was dark in the scope, relatively small. Decent views in the scope given light, but my photos are horrible. Bird’s feeding behavior was fun to watch, diving to feed, quickly returning to the surface, popping its body high out of the water, and then diving again, to be repeated over and over. It stayed fairly close to the oyster farm structure the entire time we watched it, for ~30 minutes."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1)
- Reported Aug 18, 2025 08:28 by Doug Drynan
- Pasadena Park Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8440733&<ll...>,-120.8440733 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268276322 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "continuing female bird that was first reported on the bay yesterday. I got some good views through my scope of the bird resting on a buoy that was part of the oyster farm. several other birders were also on the beach observing the bird. Tom Edell give me some pointers on features to look for in the bird, including the extremely worn primary feathers, that appeared to be almost all sheath at this point. overall, the duck was large bodied and brown, with the feathers having a scalloped appearance along the breast and belly, when the light hit it just right. it also had a pale buff eye ring, with a buff eye stripe that curved behind the eye on the neck. sloped forehead and dark bill."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 18, 2025 08:05 by Mark Mushkat
- Pasadena Park Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8440733&<ll...>,-120.8440733 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268143236 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Found 8/17 by Yan & O’Kelly. Bird at approx. .3 or .4 miles from viewing spots. Diving sea duck, medium in size, mostly dark brown to tan with a small head and bill relative to COEI. Notable white on upper flank, above eye and at gape. Slight upturn at gape evident in one photo. M. ob."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1)
- Reported Aug 18, 2025 08:00 by Jim Royer
- Pasadena Park Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8440733&<ll...>,-120.8440733 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268236881 - Comments: "Continuing brown female with pale line coming down the neck from a lighter area around the eye with feathering coming onto the base of the dark bill creating a distinctive circular border between the brown feathers and the bill, which made the bill appear short. Originally found by Alexander Yan and Brian O’Kelly."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1)
- Reported Aug 18, 2025 08:00 by Roger Hammer
- Pasadena Park Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8440733&<ll...>,-120.8440733 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268149324 - Comments: "female or juvie brown duck, fairly large (about mallard size, but shorter bill), diving frequently, scoped w/ Roger's good glass at quite a distance as it worked itself north past the oyster farm toward white marker stakes. too far for decent pics w/ my camera. the group reassembled with 15+ more birders at the marina boardwalk in an attempt to get a closer view. very fun to be w everyone. bird is likely to remain until it molts and can fly distance again."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1)
- Reported Aug 17, 2025 19:45 by Terri Osborn
- Pasadena Park Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8440733&<ll...>,-120.8440733 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268132788 - Comments: "When I arrived at Pasadena Park Beach, (with the viewing platform), there were several other birders present and four spotting scopes were set up to view the King Eider. It was resting and preening on the buoys near the oyster farm out in the bay. The female King Eider, spotted earlier today by A.Y., was about mallard size and all brown with a thin white stripe on the side and a dark bill. The low light and distance made it difficult to see and I wasn't able to get a photo. Herb and a few other birders did get some photos. Thanks to Eric Wier for sharing his spotting scope."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1)
- Reported Aug 17, 2025 19:44 by Herb Elliott
- Pasadena Park Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8440733&<ll...>,-120.8440733 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S267979704 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "... overall warm brown plumage lighter on the head, rounded head shape and a short bill; observed via scope off the boardwalk as the bird swam in the estuary near the oyster farm. It was later observed across the bay from Pasadena Park Overlook.
First reported by Alexander Yan and Brian O'kelly. It's the second county record; the first was recorded between 10/28/1985-2/17/1986 near the same location."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 17, 2025 19:28 by Anonymous eBirder
- Pasadena Park Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8440733&<ll...>,-120.8440733 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S267981510 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing lumpy-headed female found by A.Y. By the time we arrived to the Marina Boardwalk the duck had swam southwesterly, so we drove to Pasadena Park, where I said, “If I were an eider I’d go to the platform area.” I started scanning and spotted a buff-brown duck preening atop some kind of floating scaffolding by some poles. Some other birders, from their position between a few homes to the north, also spotted the eider. The duck was about thirty yards east of a main platform out in the bay, which was to our northwest. The bulky bird was buffy-brown with a smallish black bill and thick neck, and had a lumpy lower forehead protrusion. The preening bird faced away from us—so we could also see a thick trailing edge of white along its tucked wings (I think—hard to tell), also revealing some of the white of its underwing patches when it flapped. Couldn’t see details like scallops or chevrons on its sides, or the smile of its bill. We eventually joined the other birders, though their vantage wasn’t much better. Distant photos."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1)
- Reported Aug 17, 2025 19:20 by Reef Comer
- Pasadena Park Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8440733&<ll...>,-120.8440733 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268148007 - Comments: "Continuing female settling into roost on wooden platform near oyster barge. Large, tawny-brown sea duck with small, sloping head. Small, dark bill with upturned gape gave a ‘smiling’ expression. Had a noticeable amount of white on the wings, which surprised me, but only my second sighting ever of this species, so could be normal. Incredible find, especially for summer! Second county record for SLO."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 17, 2025 19:17 by Will Knowlton
- Pasadena Park Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8440733&<ll...>,-120.8440733 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268167992 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Reported earlier in the evening. Decent views in the scope. Not so decent photos. Brownish duck with rounded head when viewed in profile, shortish bill, and pale spot noted above the eye while in the field."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 17, 2025 19:17 by Morgan Bing
- Pasadena Park Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8440733&<ll...>,-120.8440733 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268170676 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Reported earlier in the evening. Decent views in the scope. Not so decent photos. Brownish duck with rounded head when viewed in profile, shortish bill, and pale spot noted above the eye while in the field."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 17, 2025 19:17 by Jay Carroll
- Pasadena Park Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8440733&<ll...>,-120.8440733 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268253362 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Reported earlier in the evening. Decent views in the scope. Not so decent photos. Brownish duck with rounded head when viewed in profile, shortish bill, and pale spot noted above the eye while in the field."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 18, 2025 07:50 by The Spotting Twohees
- Pasedena Dr, Los Osos, CA, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8431674&<ll...>,-120.8431674 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268122105 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing bird found 8/17. Seems to have spent the night on the buoys at the Oyter Farm.
Female, appears to be molting. No one has yet to see it fly. It is swimming and diving as it moves about the bay, so far between the main Chorro Creek channel and the Oyster Farm. Often stopping to raise up out of the water. Photos"
Semipalmated Sandpiper (Calidris pusilla) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 18, 2025 11:00 by Tom Edell
- Cayucos Creek Mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.907463&<ll...>,-120.907463 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268144723 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "juvenile discovered by HE and KH. Lone peep foraging along the shoreline at the ocean end of the creek lagoon. The bird flew from the creek three or four times but always returned. It had black legs and black thick based bill with a blunt tip. The wings and back appeared scaly because of the pale fringed feathers and lacked the reddish scapulars of a juvenile Western Sandpiper. The bird was white below except for at the shoulder and upper breast where a buffy wash that extended onto the breast had short streaks at the shoulder. The face was pale with a brownish cheek, some brownish streaks, a dark line extending from the bill to the eye, and a pale supercilium. The crown was mostly brown. One photo shows a partial web between two toes. See photos for more details."
Semipalmated Sandpiper (Calidris pusilla) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 18, 2025 10:38 by The Spotting Twohees
- Cayucos Creek Mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.907599&<ll...>,-120.907599 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268146049 - Media: 6 Photos
- Comments: "*Rare but regular. Juv feeding at the creek mouth. Flew off occasionally but came back several times, giving deep cherrk calls. Scaly pale peep with short traffic cone shaped bill and no rufous in scapulars. Pics"
Semipalmated Sandpiper (Calidris pusilla) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 18, 2025 10:38 by Herb Elliott
- Cayucos Creek Mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.907599&<ll...>,-120.907599 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268144508 - Media: 6 Photos
- Comments: "*Rare but regular. Juv feeding at the creek mouth. Flew off occasionally but came back several times, giving deep cherrk calls. Scaly pale peep with short traffic cone shaped bill and no rufous in scapulars. Pics"
Semipalmated Sandpiper (Calidris pusilla) (1)
- Reported Aug 19, 2025 08:35 by marlin harms
- Cayucos Pier, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9069453&<ll...>,-120.9069453 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S268286572 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Foraging on the sandy beach alongside a juvenile Western Sandpiper. Semipalmated had slightly shorter bill, less colorful and less contrasting wing coverts than Western. Photo."
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eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 8/19/25 10:12 am From: Tom Edell via groups.io <TEdell...> Subject: [slocobirding] King Eider at Morro Bay
On Sunday, January 17th, a King Eider was found on Morro Bay. It was found
during the evening high tide and seen from the Morro Bay State Park Marina
boardwalk. From the boardwalk, a group of birders watched it swim out to the
south. It was later seen resting on oyster company floats from Pasadena Ave
in Los Osos. The next morning the bird was again seen on the floats from
Pasadena Ave, before heading off toward the Marina boardwalk where it could
not be seen. It was back on the floats yesterday afternoon.
The bird is in female like plumage and has very worn, bleached white
primaries and probably is unable to fly so it should be around for a while.
Its recent pattern suggests the best place to see if is from the shoreline
north of the Pasadena Ave beach access. The light is best in the morning.
The bird is not close, and a scope is useful to find it and see detail.
Photos of the King Eider can be viewed here
<https://media.ebird.org/catalog?sort=upload_date_desc&searchField=species&r egionCode=US-CA-079&taxonCode=kineid> .
Yesterday, a juvenile Semipalmated Sandpiper
<https://media.ebird.org/catalog?sort=upload_date_desc&searchField=species&r egionCode=US-CA-079&taxonCode=semsan&beginMonth=8&endMonth=8&beginYear=2025&
endYear=2025> was at the mouth of Cayucos Creek. It continued there this
morning but was last seen foraging with a juvenile Western Sandpiper in the
beached algae on the northern side of the Cayucos Pier. A hundred or more
Sooty Shearwaters were visible from the end of the pier and there were about
50 Common Murres scattered offshore.
Date: 8/18/25 11:34 am From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [slocobirding] [eBird Alert] San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- King Eider (4 reports)
- Allen's Hummingbird (1 report)
- American Redstart (1 report)
- Northern Parula (1 report)
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1)
- Reported Aug 17, 2025 15:13 by The Spotting Twohees
- Morro Bay SP--Marina/Boardwalk Trail, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8418006&<ll...>,-120.8418006 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S267976065 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "See photo. Brown diving duck with its distinctive bill shape, unlike the more straight off corners for common eider. Swims quickly and stay low and occasionally does the wing flap thing on the water. First seem around the channel of the marsh area outside the marina broad walk before it quickly swam towards the oyster farms."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1)
- Reported Aug 17, 2025 15:13 by Alexander Yan
- Morro Bay SP--Marina/Boardwalk Trail, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8418006&<ll...>,-120.8418006 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S267966004 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "See photo. Large brown diving duck with its distinctive bill shape, unlike the more straight off corners for common eider. Swims quickly and stay low and occasionally does the wing flap thing on the water. First seem around the channel of the marsh area outside the marina broad walk before it quickly swam towards the oyster farms, then moved towards Los Osos."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1)
- Reported Aug 17, 2025 19:28 by Anonymous eBirder
- Pasadena Park Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8440733&<ll...>,-120.8440733 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S267981510 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "*NOTE: I'm starting to doubt this ID as a King Eider. Personally, leaning toward Common Eider. The head shape, bill shape, and general coloration makes me reconsider this ID. I'll just wait, though. My pics aren't conclusive, but others have far more detail...
Continuing lumpy-headed female found by A.Y. By the time we arrived to the Marina Boardwalk the duck had swam southwesterly, so we drove to Pasadena Park, where I said, “If I were an eider I’d go to the platform area.” I started scanning and spotted a buff-brown duck preening atop some kind of floating scaffolding by some poles. Some other birders, from their position between a few homes to the north, also spotted the eider. The duck was about thirty yards east of a main platform out in the bay, which was to our northwest. The bulky bird was buffy-brown with a smallish black bill and thick neck, and had a lumpy lower forehead protrusion. The preening bird faced away from us—so we could also see a thick trailing edge of white along its tucked wings (I think—hard to tell), also revealing some of the white of its underwing patches when it flapped. Couldn’t see details like scallops or chevrons on its sides, or the smile of its bill. We eventually joined the other birders, though their vantage wasn’t much better. Distant photos."
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 8/17/25 10:38 am From: Kaaren Perry via groups.io <surfbird1...> Subject: [slocobirding] Unseasonal rarity status - Morro Bay yard
On July 18, 2025 I photographed a Tennessee Warbler in our yard. It was a very brief visit of about 8 seconds and only one photo possible taken. The little bird was in heavy molt and it's identification was discussed widely before confirming as to species. This ebird record was the first July record for TEWA in San Luis Obispo County.
On 8/16 a second TEWA appeared in our yard, this time staying longer to bath and a few more photos were taken. This bird was also in molt and this sighting represents an early record for August for TEWA for SLOCO. The previous August record taken on August. 31, 2024 at Arroyo Grande Creek by J. Stone.
I have done quite a bit of research hoping to age these visiting birds as observed in the molting plumages. I am wondering if today's bird could possibly have been a return of the earlier July individual now with more advanced stage of seasonal plumage. Thoughts?
These photos will be found in my ebird reports and I am also downloading both July and August TEWA photos to my flickr site for review purposes. I will remove them from flickr in a few days. http://www.flickr.com/photos/kaarenp/
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
Tennessee Warbler (Leiothlypis peregrina) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 16, 2025 10:00 by Kaaren Perry
- Morro Bay yard, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.844846&<ll...>,-120.844846 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S267696357 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Small, short tailed warbler, sharp bill, pale yellowish supercillium and faint grayish eye line. Molting, bright green upper parts and pale greenish yellow underparts, white undertail coverts, pointed (juvenile?) tail feathers. 2 visits to the bird fountain. Hoping to get further information regarding molt sequence and age. Seen at 11:28 am"
Northern Parula (Setophaga americana) (1)
- Reported Aug 16, 2025 11:05 by Luke Jensen
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S267676270 - Comments: "Seen on the maintenance road in the mid and high stories of the trees. Making sweet chip along with bits and parts of the song. Seen on the lagoon side of the road in a flock of bushtits a Hutton’s vireo Chestnut backed chickadees titmice a western flycatcher a Wilson’s warbler and common yellowthroats. Seen off and on for about 10 minutes. First seen at 11:01 and last seen at 11:10.Paurla then went into lower foliage and stopped calling. Camera lifer!"
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You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
Reddish Egret (Egretta rufescens) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 15, 2025 10:00 by Petra Clayton
- Santa Rosa Creek-below Windsor, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1064448&<ll...>,-121.1064448 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S267497897 - Media: 6 Photos
- Comments: "First ever eBird report of this species at this eBird hotspot.
Most likely the same bird that was first reported at Villa Creek on 7/21/25 (Makaleh Smith) and since then has continued at Villa Creek, but has also been reported at Cayucos Creek, Morro Creek and San Geronimo Creek. ---
The bird was reported early this morning at Villa Creek and observed flying "off between rocky bluff and eucalyptus grove."<a href="https://ebird.org/checklist/S267473321">ebird.org/checklist/S267473321</a> We observed it today at 10:00 a.m. foraging in the Santa Rosa Creek: Walking, running, hopping, standing still, wing-flicking, open wing-feeding..
Overall dull gray plumage with a tinge of cinnamon-brown on the head, neck and back; pale yellow eyes; dark bill, dark legs.
Northern Parula (Setophaga americana) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 14, 2025 09:52 by Kevin Zimmer
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S267457708 - Media: 18 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing bird first reported by KH and HE at this location on 11 August. Small warbler with mostly grayish-blue upper parts, moss green patch in the center of the back, two broad white wingbars, yellow throat and upper breast with diffuse darker rust-orange breast band, belly and vent white, white arcs above and below the eye (although pattern largely obliterated by molt), and bicolored bill with dusky culmen but bright yellow lower mandible. This individual is in heavy molt, and may also have been very wet, making for an extremely tattered and messy look -- probably the saddest looking example I have ever seen of this normally attractive species, and markedly more ragged than it appeared in Herb's photos from just a few days earlier! This may be the reason for two atypical plumage features: a fairly distinct white supraorbital stripe in place of the upper white eye arc, and, the pale cinnamon wash down the flanks (almost reminiscent of a fall Bay-breasted Warbler). I heard the bird’s typical sweet chip note before seeing it, and later heard it sing a few pretty typical songs. Photos to be uploaded shortly."
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You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
Hermit Warbler (Setophaga occidentalis) (1)
- Reported Aug 14, 2025 07:47 by Anonymous eBirder
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S267252466 - Media: 7 Photos
- Comments: "First-year fall bird, possibly male. I first heard a soft, slightly sharp chip call coming from gazebo-area pines. I couldn’t find the bird until I was playing a rufous hummingbird call while trying to find a rufous/allen’s. The warbler appeared high in canopy in the pines just east of the gazebo. The bird was curious and foraging rather quickly, but along the outer edge of the north side of trees at a clearing. It never descended lower than twelve or so feet off the ground. It was soon joined by a western flycatcher and two anna’s. Whitish-yellow throat, olive ear/cheek patch, yellow eyering, olive-to-brown crown and nape, white underside with brownish streaking on flanks. Also: white undertail coverts. The wings each had two white wingbars, and its grey back had dark streaks. Black streaks in median coverts—indicating first-year bird. This bird did not continue to call. Photo"
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 12, 2025 12:14 by Terri May
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S267091700 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing bird. Observed in the sycamore tree that it often perches. Also, observed it flying and foraging. It was great to see all of these behaviors. Pictures to follow."
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 12, 2025 12:14 by Terri Osborn
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S267092016 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing bird. Observed in the sycamore tree where it often perches. Also, observed it flying and foraging. It was great to see all of these behaviors. Pictures to follow."
Reddish Egret (Egretta rufescens) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 13, 2025 09:40 by Petra Clayton
- Villa Creek--Estero Bluffs State Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9688341&<ll...>,-120.9688341 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S267083756 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing since 7/21/25 (Makaleh Smith)
Overall dull gray plumage with a tinge of cinnamon-brown on the head, neck and back; pale yellow eyes; dark bill. - Standing still up-creek on a grassy island with a Great Blue Heron."
Northern Parula (Setophaga americana) (1)
- Reported Aug 13, 2025 15:14 by Alexander Yan
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S267078394 - Media: 1 Audio
- Comments: "Continuing at 35.11216° N, 120.62655° W; tiny warbler with a blue-grey above, yellow chest, white eye arches, and a dark breast band. Responded to playback immediately upon being tipped off about its actual location. Please beware said location and nearby area have a massive mosquito population and they will bleed you out."
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You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
Northern Parula (Setophaga americana) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 12, 2025 08:04 by Anonymous eBirder
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S266857571 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Decided to chase this bird found by KH and HE, since they’ve found a few this year (one on san simeon road if I’m remembering correctly). I feared my luck would run out with this species if I didn’t search… luckily it was still in same area; continuing at north end of maintenance road flying back and forth across road, sometimes chasing or being chased by other warblers. I first heard this bird’s sweet chip, which sounded sharper than a yellow, maybe slightly shorter than a yellow’s call—that was when I first entered the maintenance road from the south. I finally spotted the bird in a mixed flock with an orange-crowned warbler and wilson’s warbler, high in canopy—maybe fifteen feet up. Also present: many bushtits, chickadees, a vireo, a jay, titmouse, and a racoon family of four in a nearby tree. The raccoon family stared while the birds were all on the move. The parula, which also sang song snippets, I could see in my brief looks, had a short tail, white underside (and undertail) with an egg-yolk chest, and a broken eyering on a grey head. I did spot white wingbars on grey wings, but don’t recall seeing its back, or its throat (at least don’t recall the throat). It did appear to be an adult. The bird eventually flew eastward, into the flooded area of the campground trail, east lakeside. Crappy photos."
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eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 8/12/25 9:29 am From: Bob Revel via groups.io <robrev...> Subject: [slocobirding] Full Day Pelagic Trip out of Morro Bay, CA
*Morro Coast Audubon Society (MCAS)* is excited to announce a *full-day Pelagic Trip* on *Saturday, September 27, 2025* , departing from Morro Bay. You’ll find all the details in the attached flyer.
While Alvaro Adventures usually offers one or two fall trips from Morro Bay, they will not be doing so this year—making this MCAS excursion a rare and perfect chance to get out on the water and enjoy the experience.
If you have any questions, please email us at: *<fieldtrips...>*
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
Reddish Egret (Egretta rufescens) (1)
- Reported Aug 11, 2025 07:14 by Maggie Smith
- Villa Creek--Estero Bluffs State Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9688341&<ll...>,-120.9688341 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S266674432 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing immature bird on creek actively fishing using its wings to cover water. Color seems to be subtly changing adding pinkish tones to ashy grey blue color."
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (2)
- Reported Aug 11, 2025 07:38 by Herb Elliott
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S266684384 - Media: 5 Photos, 1 Audio
- Comments: "Expected in south county in small numbers, especially here. FOS. One seen briefly on maintenance rd then 2 relocated here: (35.111087, -120.627709). Large-headed and large/long-billed dull OCWAs with a vested appearance, dull olive overall, extensively streaked olive undertail coverts, greenish upper and paler lower eye arcs, half-hearted sounding trilled song, and thick husky chip call. These are usually the first migrant/dispersing OCWAs I/we see in south county in early fall. Pics and audio."
Northern Parula (Setophaga americana) (1)
- Reported Aug 11, 2025 10:03 by The Spotting Twohees
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S266636467 - Media: 8 Photos
- Comments: "Found by K.H. and H.E earlier. Seen foraging on the willows at the north end of the campground.
White eye arcs, yellow breast and roufous tones on the throat. Dirty white belly with white undertail.
Photos"
Northern Parula (Setophaga americana) (1)
- Reported Aug 11, 2025 07:38 by Herb Elliott
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S266684384 - Media: 3 Photos, 2 Audio
- Comments: "*Rare but regular. One on north side here: (35.112064, -120.626288). Worn and molting bluish warbler with obvious eye-arcs, yellow orange breast and throat, whitish underparts, Buffy sides, greenish back, and sweet sharp chip. Pics"
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You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
Semipalmated Sandpiper (Calidris pusilla) (1)
- Reported Aug 06, 2025 09:05 by Petra Clayton
- Turri Road Tidal Ponds, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8218378&<ll...>,-120.8218378 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S265744072 - Media: 12 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing since 8/1/25 (Steve Tillmann)
Foraging in the first tidal pond with Least and Western Sandpipers, Red-necked Phalaropes and Greater Yellowlegs.
Size wise between Least and Western Sandpiper with a lighter scaly back; white underparts with buff-colored upper breast; pale supercilium; shorter bill than Least Sandpiper, black, straight and with a blunt tip; black legs.
Click on the image below for a Flickr video, showing the Semipalmated Sandpiper foraging with Least Sandpipers, Red-necked Phalaropes and a Greater Yellowlegs:
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jack-petra-clayton/54710865426/in/dateposted-public/" title="Semipalmated Sandpiper (Calidris pusilla), Los Osos, CA"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/54710865426_4f666bc82e_z.jpg" alt="Semipalmated Sandpiper (Calidris pusilla), Los Osos, CA" /></a>"
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
Semipalmated Sandpiper (Calidris pusilla) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 09, 2025 13:05 by Anonymous eBirder
- Turri Road Tidal Ponds, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8218378&<ll...>,-120.8218378 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S266165966 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing brownish-grey shorebird slightly larger than a least sandpiper. Short, straight, thick blunt-tipped black bill, black legs, uniform drab scaling on back, noticeable pale supercilium, rufous-brown crown, brownish ear patch. Foraging with a least and western sandpiper, then foraging with a western sandpiper. Picked amid the shallows while the western sandpiper stayed out of the water. In easternmost pond. Distant photo."
Semipalmated Sandpiper (Calidris pusilla) (1)
- Reported Aug 09, 2025 12:39 by Eric Wier
- Turri Road Tidal Ponds, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8218378&<ll...>,-120.8218378 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S266171237 - Comments: "Small shorebird seen about 200 feet or more away, with grayish upperparts and white underparts; appearing a bit smaller and more slender than Western Sandpiper, which was nearby; relatively short, dark bill with blunt tip, and obvious whitish supercillium."
Reddish Egret (Egretta rufescens) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 09, 2025 07:06 by Maggie Smith
- Villa Creek--Estero Bluffs State Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9688341&<ll...>,-120.9688341 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S266190366 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "immature bird continuing on creek. Flew in from up creek at 8:35. Then left again and returned. Did a lot of fishing using its particular talent of raising large wings and dancing about."
Reddish Egret (Egretta rufescens) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 08, 2025 09:06 by Van Pierszalowski
- Villa Creek--Estero Bluffs State Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9688341&<ll...>,-120.9688341 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S265986400 - Media: 2 Videos
- Comments: "Continuing juvenile, doing its avant-gard dance moves and successfully swallowing a few fish. The bird was present in the creek mouth throughout my visit. Overall brown and gray muted tones without much contrast. Long, all dark bill; dark gray-ish legs; light yellow-ish iris. I did not hear the bird vocalize or fly."
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
Wilson's Snipe (Gallinago delicata) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 08, 2025 08:02 by Anonymous eBirder
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S265912967 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "(A mallard, a snipe, and a sparrow walk into a bar . . .) Flying together. One landed while the other circled, both calling. The one that landed took a drink. Then it joined the other in flight and headed northwest. Plump shorebirds with long pointy bills and pale buff-colored stripes on backs and faces. Call was a rough squeak."
Semipalmated Sandpiper (Calidris pusilla) (1)
- Reported Aug 08, 2025 11:20 by Steven McMasters
- Turri Road Tidal Ponds, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8218378&<ll...>,-120.8218378 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S265908257 - Comments: "Most of the peeps were resting in the vegetation. Semipalmated sandpiper was foraging with two Least Sandpipers providing good comparison of shorter bill, "supercilium", and dark cheek."
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1)
- Reported Aug 05, 2025 14:05 by Petra Clayton
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S265328778 - Media: 7 Photos
- Comments: "Second year bird continuing since 6/9/25 (Tom Edell)
Seen resting and preening on the sycamore tree, about 100 yards up-creek from the pedestrian bridge. Dark head, neck and back; new feathers in the center of the tail, worn feathers on the outside of the tail; orange gular patch with a pale border forming a V at the gape; dark supraloral area; blue eyes. --- When I was leaving and looking back, the bird was circling up-creek high over the trees."
Reddish Egret (Egretta rufescens) (1)
- Reported Aug 06, 2025 10:15 by Petra Clayton
- Villa Creek--Estero Bluffs State Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9688341&<ll...>,-120.9688341 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S265558364 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing since 7/21/25 (Makaleh Smith)
Overall dull gray plumage with a tinge of cinnamon-brown on the head, neck and back; pale yellow eyes; dark bill; dark legs. - Mostly just standing still in the creek."
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You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 8/7/25 3:26 pm From: William Bouton via groups.io <boutonbill...> Subject: [slocobirding] Dancing Reddish Egret Photos
The celebrity Reddish Egret was performing a “feeding dance” at its Villa Creek “pond” location this morning. Several pictures were taken and can be seen at:
Date: 8/7/25 11:34 am From: Rubba Johanna via groups.io <jer72701...> Subject: [slocobirding] Villa Creek Road and Lagoon, Wednesday. No BLVU.
Drove about 5 miles in Villa Creek Road, then to Creek Lagoon. Saw only two vultures, both too high and far to distinguish field marks.
The beach was more interesting, though. The Reddish Egret was foraging in the lagoon; two Killdeer called repeatedly as they scooted around the sand. Four waders were seen: two Marbled Godwits, plus one Whimbrel alongside one Long-billed Curlew—a great opportunity for comparison. I tried to take photos, but they flushed every time I approached.
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
Semipalmated Sandpiper (Calidris pusilla) (2)
- Reported Aug 05, 2025 09:00 by Roger Hammer
- Turri Road Tidal Ponds, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8218378&<ll...>,-120.8218378 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S265315001 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "One in the W pond fairly close and one in the E pond far away. Slightly larger than a least sandpiper. Pale greyish peep with scalloped non-rufous scaling on back, a white underside, and a black, shorter, blunt-tipped bill, and had a noticeable white long eyebrow. Its legs were black, distinguishing it from a LESA. It was distinct from the smaller dark legged WESAs in the area."
Black Vulture (Coragyps atratus) (1)
- Reported Aug 05, 2025 12:05 by Roger Hammer
- Hwy 46 Post Mile 5.0 pond (no internal access), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9662118&<ll...>,-120.9662118 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S265320555 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Enroute home on 46, Stopped 6-7 times when vultures were observed overhead. Always TUVUs. This time near Jack Ck I stopped again as I saw birds landed on carrion about 200+ yards away. Closest to me I spotted one noticeably smaller all black bird (others grouped to the right show some brown tinges) which remained off to the side, had a slightly smaller gray head (I realize some immature TUVUs also have less color on the head). My pics don't clinch an ID as the birds stayed put for the 12 minutes I watched so I did not observe bird in flight to see "white fingers" or short, square tail or horizontal wing position in the air. The BLVU from Villa which others have reported as smaller than adjacent TUVUs had to eventually set down somewhere nearby today. Perhaps it was here!?"
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You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 8/6/25 6:19 pm From: Tom Edell via groups.io <TEdell...> Subject: Re: [slocobirding] White-throated Sparrow timing in North County?
You cannot access individual records through the line graphs, only through the first link in my email: eBird SLO County Bar Chart <https://ebird.org/barchart?byr=1900&eyr=2025&bmo=1&emo=12&r=US-CA-079> . Once you are on that page, click on the map symbol to the left of the bar chart for any species to look at the records. You can change the date range to get a specific month or year. Here is what the data look like for White-throated Sparrow for all years, October only: eBird White-throated Sparrow Records for October <https://ebird.org/map/whtspa?bmo=10&emo=10&byr=1900&eyr=2025&<env.minX...>&<env.minY...>&<env.maxX...>&<env.maxY...>&gp=true> . BTW, the large markers are hotspots, the small markers are personal locations. Should you change the search parameters (species or time of year), red markers are for records in the last 30 days.
Tom Edell
Cayucos, CA
From: Ben Kolstad <ben...>
Sent: Wednesday, August 6, 2025 4:34 PM
To: Tom Edell <tedell...>
Cc: <slocobirding...>
Subject: Re: [slocobirding] White-throated Sparrow timing in North County?
Thanks for the screenshot, Tom; very helpful.
I’ve discovered how to replicate the data view you’ve got, but I’m stumped on how to click on the individual markers; nothing seems to be clickable for me. I can’t see how to select just the month of October in the bar chart data. That would be the really useful trick.
I can mouse over any individual week on the line graphs and see the numbers (I’ve screenshotted the April 8 week randomly), and I can mouse over each month on the histogram above it, but the data aren’t clickable. Am I missing something obvious?
The eBird SLO County bar chart <x-msg://4/eBird%20SLO%20County%20bar%20chart> is a good way to drill down into the data. You can select records by month and year and then look at individual records by clicking on the individual records/location. Aside from KJZ’s bird that was present June-Sep, there are no other eBird records for that period. However, if you select just the month of October for White-throated Sparow you’ll see there are a lot of records. Sorting through those records by clicking on the individual markers, you can get an idea of when the first birds begin to arrive. You can also look at the line graphs to get a better sense of the trend in October. The line graphs shows that WTSP numbers begin to climb by mid Oct and then increase greatly by Nov 1. The line graphs also allow for looking at the most recent date by allowing the selection data for only the last 5 years (see below).
I'm in Atascadero (south of town, adjacent to the Santa Margarita Ranch), and the Lark Sparrows have been dripping off the trees here for the past couple weeks (several flocks of more than two dozen birds each).
This morning as I was walking my neighborhood, Merlin picked up White-throated Sparrow. I couldn't find it either visually or with my own ears (in the field or when playing the Merlin recording back), so I'm clearly not counting it. But it did bring up the question of when they can be expected to return. The one August record near me that I'm aware of was the 2024 one in KJZ's yard, and that one doesn't count since it never left for the summer.
Does anyone know a more effective way of looking this up in eBird than to use the bar charts for the whole county?
You can't drill down into the individual observations that way.
Date: 8/6/25 4:34 pm From: Ben Kolstad via groups.io <ben...> Subject: Re: [slocobirding] White-throated Sparrow timing in North County?
Thanks for the screenshot, Tom; very helpful.
I’ve discovered how to replicate the data view you’ve got, but I’m stumped on how to click on the individual markers; nothing seems to be clickable for me. I can’t see how to select just the month of October in the bar chart data. That would be the really useful trick.
I can mouse over any individual week on the line graphs and see the numbers (I’ve screenshotted the April 8 week randomly), and I can mouse over each month on the histogram above it, but the data aren’t clickable. Am I missing something obvious?

> On Aug 6, 2025, at 13:07, <tedell...> wrote:
>
> Hi Ben,
>
> The eBird SLO County bar chart <x-msg://4/eBird%20SLO%20County%20bar%20chart> is a good way to drill down into the data. You can select records by month and year and then look at individual records by clicking on the individual records/location. Aside from KJZ’s bird that was present June-Sep, there are no other eBird records for that period. However, if you select just the month of October for White-throated Sparow you’ll see there are a lot of records. Sorting through those records by clicking on the individual markers, you can get an idea of when the first birds begin to arrive. You can also look at the line graphs to get a better sense of the trend in October. The line graphs shows that WTSP numbers begin to climb by mid Oct and then increase greatly by Nov 1. The line graphs also allow for looking at the most recent date by allowing the selection data for only the last 5 years (see below).
>
> There is an eBird help page for Bar Charts and Graphs <https://support.ebird.org/en/support/solutions/articles/48001255130-ebird-bar-charts-and-graphs> that explains these outputs.
>
> Tom Edell
> Cayucos, CA
>
> <image001.png>
>
> From: <slocobirding...> <mailto:<slocobirding...> <slocobirding...> <mailto:<slocobirding...>> On Behalf Of Ben Kolstad
> Sent: Wednesday, August 6, 2025 11:47 AM
> To: <slocobirding...> <mailto:<slocobirding...> > Subject: [slocobirding] White-throated Sparrow timing in North County?
>
> I'm in Atascadero (south of town, adjacent to the Santa Margarita Ranch), and the Lark Sparrows have been dripping off the trees here for the past couple weeks (several flocks of more than two dozen birds each).
>
> This morning as I was walking my neighborhood, Merlin picked up White-throated Sparrow. I couldn't find it either visually or with my own ears (in the field or when playing the Merlin recording back), so I'm clearly not counting it. But it did bring up the question of when they can be expected to return. The one August record near me that I'm aware of was the 2024 one in KJZ's yard, and that one doesn't count since it never left for the summer.
>
> Does anyone know a more effective way of looking this up in eBird than to use the bar charts for the whole county?
> You can't drill down into the individual observations that way.
> I've also tried their abundance animations, and maybe that's as good as I can get? (https://science.ebird.org/en/status-and-trends/species/whcspa/abundance-map?season=postbreeding_migration)
>
> Ben Kolstad
> Atascadero
>
Date: 8/6/25 1:07 pm From: Tom Edell via groups.io <TEdell...> Subject: Re: [slocobirding] White-throated Sparrow timing in North County?
Hi Ben,
The eBird SLO County bar chart is a good way to drill down into the data. You can select records by month and year and then look at individual records by clicking on the individual records/location. Aside from KJZ’s bird that was present June-Sep, there are no other eBird records for that period. However, if you select just the month of October for White-throated Sparow you’ll see there are a lot of records. Sorting through those records by clicking on the individual markers, you can get an idea of when the first birds begin to arrive. You can also look at the line graphs to get a better sense of the trend in October. The line graphs shows that WTSP numbers begin to climb by mid Oct and then increase greatly by Nov 1. The line graphs also allow for looking at the most recent date by allowing the selection data for only the last 5 years (see below).
From: <slocobirding...> <slocobirding...> On Behalf Of Ben Kolstad
Sent: Wednesday, August 6, 2025 11:47 AM
To: <slocobirding...>
Subject: [slocobirding] White-throated Sparrow timing in North County?
I'm in Atascadero (south of town, adjacent to the Santa Margarita Ranch), and the Lark Sparrows have been dripping off the trees here for the past couple weeks (several flocks of more than two dozen birds each).
This morning as I was walking my neighborhood, Merlin picked up White-throated Sparrow. I couldn't find it either visually or with my own ears (in the field or when playing the Merlin recording back), so I'm clearly not counting it. But it did bring up the question of when they can be expected to return. The one August record near me that I'm aware of was the 2024 one in KJZ's yard, and that one doesn't count since it never left for the summer.
Does anyone know a more effective way of looking this up in eBird than to use the bar charts for the whole county?
You can't drill down into the individual observations that way.
On Wed, Aug 6, 2025 at 11:50 AM Ben Kolstad via groups.io <ben=
<kolstad.com...> wrote:
> I'm in Atascadero (south of town, adjacent to the Santa Margarita Ranch),
> and the Lark Sparrows have been dripping off the trees here for the past
> couple weeks (several flocks of more than two dozen birds each).
>
> This morning as I was walking my neighborhood, Merlin picked up
> White-throated Sparrow. I couldn't find it either visually or with my own
> ears (in the field or when playing the Merlin recording back), so I'm
> clearly not counting it. But it did bring up the question of when they can
> be expected to return. The one August record near me that I'm aware of was
> the 2024 one in KJZ's yard, and that one doesn't count since it never left
> for the summer.
>
> Does anyone know a more effective way of looking this up in eBird than to
> use the bar charts for the whole county?
> You can't drill down into the individual observations that way.
> I've also tried their abundance animations, and maybe that's as good as I
> can get? (
> https://science.ebird.org/en/status-and-trends/species/whcspa/abundance-map?season=postbreeding_migration > )
>
> Ben Kolstad
> Atascadero
>
>
>
Date: 8/6/25 11:47 am From: Ben Kolstad via groups.io <ben...> Subject: [slocobirding] White-throated Sparrow timing in North County?
I'm in Atascadero (south of town, adjacent to the Santa Margarita Ranch), and the Lark Sparrows have been dripping off the trees here for the past couple weeks (several flocks of more than two dozen birds each).
This morning as I was walking my neighborhood, Merlin picked up White-throated Sparrow. I couldn't find it either visually or with my own ears (in the field or when playing the Merlin recording back), so I'm clearly not counting it. But it did bring up the question of when they can be expected to return. The one August record near me that I'm aware of was the 2024 one in KJZ's yard, and that one doesn't count since it never left for the summer.
Date: 8/5/25 6:32 pm From: Thomas Slater via groups.io <tomslaterphotography...> Subject: Re: [slocobirding] Red-necked Phalarope, Turri Road
A group of 25 red-necked phalaropes were seen at Oso Flaco this morning.
On Tuesday, August 5, 2025, 4:47 PM, Rubba Johanna via groups.io <jer72701...> wrote:
Belated post: seen Wednesday, July 31, late afternoon, a flock of about 30 Red-necked Phalarope on the westernmost, large pond at Turri Road. First, I saw a pair, cruising on the pond. Then, on a muddy strip towards the far end of the pond, I saw what I thought were a bunch of mud lumps. Then about half of them up and flew off westwards towards the bay. A short while later, most of the rest of them also flew towards the bay. The birds were quite far away, but I diagnosed Red-necked based on their black caps. Also, just before I left, two noisy Killdeer flew in. Johanna RubbaGrover Beach
Date: 8/5/25 5:37 pm From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [slocobirding] [eBird Alert] San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- Vaux's Swift (1 report)
- Sora (1 report)
- Semipalmated Sandpiper (5 reports)
- Neotropic Cormorant (2 reports)
- Reddish Egret (5 reports)
- California Condor (1 report)
- Black Vulture (2 reports)
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
Semipalmated Sandpiper (Calidris pusilla) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 04, 2025 17:34 by Anonymous eBirder
- Turri Road Tidal Ponds, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8218378&<ll...>,-120.8218378 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S265138635 - Media: 7 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing juveniles slightly larger than a least sandpiper. Spotted one in a moving flock, and then observed it foraging briefly near a tuft of scrub in shallows distant from road. One was much closer to my position, and like the other, was mostly pale greyish-brown with a white underside, and a black, straight, blunt-tipped and relatively short bill, plain uniform scaling on back, with lack of rufous streaking across its scales, and had a white supercilium. Its legs were black and it had dingy patches on sides of breast, and a darkish, rustyish cheek patch and rufousy-brown crown. The second was also foraging in very shallow water, probing and picking. A least sandpiper foraged nearby. Both semipalmated sandpipers pecked along the surface in the large eastern pond/mudflats. At one point the second bird flew to a different section of pond, farther from road, and while closer to more least sandpipers, foraged away from them, and away from the other semipalmated sandpiper. Photos of second bird with least sandpiper. One photo of first bird."
Semipalmated Sandpiper (Calidris pusilla) (2)
- Reported Aug 04, 2025 15:32 by Tom Edell
- Turri Road Tidal Ponds, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8218378&<ll...>,-120.8218378 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S265140086 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "One, possibly two juveniles, had previously been reported the last two days. I arrived with Jason and found one on the northwest side of the eastern most tidal pond. Unfortunately at this time of day the sun was behind and to slightly right of the pond which led to mostly poor photos from Turri Road. I've included my best photo in the media. This small sandpiper stood out because of its pale breast, short straight, blunt tipped, dark bill, scaly back, and because it tended to pick, rather than probe for food. In addition, the bird had a pale supercilium that helped give the impression of a dark crown/cap, dark line from the eye to the bill, a dark cheek patch, and a brownish projection from the shoulder down onto the breast. The bird lacked the obvious rusty scapulars of a juvenile Western Sandpiper. Curtis and Tom soon arrived and I spotted a second similar looking bird further away on the pond and after a while Curtis located a third bird; he was able to photograph all three. I had a brief glimpse of what may have been a third individual, but was never certain. I never heard the birds call."
Semipalmated Sandpiper (Calidris pusilla) (1)
- Reported Aug 04, 2025 13:45 by Kevin Zimmer
- Turri Road Tidal Ponds, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8218378&<ll...>,-120.8218378 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S265142739 - Comments: "Juvenile bird, closely associated with a group of 30-40 Least Sandpipers, most of which, at least initially, were clustered together, loafing on a small, vegetated island in the western tidal pond. The bird was slightly, but noticeably larger than all of the surrounding Leasts, with a straighter bill that was thicker through the tip, without either drooping or tapering conspicuously. The legs were black, and the upper parts were paler and scaled looking, with uniform pale fringes, and without the distinctive chestnut scapulars of a juvenile Western Sandpiper. The bill was also not as long as that of a Western, and lacked the distinct taper and droop at the tip."
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1)
- Reported Aug 04, 2025 14:40 by Tom Edell
- Lucerne St. Vista Point -- Cayucos, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9141691&<ll...>,-120.9141691 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S265140099 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "I was here to look for this bird which I easily found because it stood out by its small size compared to the Double-crested Cormorants. This was actually my second visit. On the first the bird flew off after I spotted it and before I could study it and take photos. Since it flew down coast, I thought it might have flow to Morro Creek where one has been since Jun 9. After checking there and returning to this location I again found the bird on the beach where it stayed for a while before flying off again. One was later seen at Morro Creek by Curtis M. and Tom W.. This bird was an immature bird that had lightly mottled underparts and looked like the one that has been up creek of the pedestrian bridge at Morro Creek mouth. It was molting retricies and showed at least one very frayed, worn, tail feather. In addition, it had a yellow gular patch that narrowed at the rear where photos show there was a faint white projection, and had dark lores. The wing coverts and tertials looked fresh, but I could not tell if the primaries were new. Curtis M. and Tom W. arrived and we left after studying the bird."
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1)
- Reported Aug 05, 2025 10:23 by Tom Edell
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S265293915 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing immature showing the same worn tail pattern as the bird seen yesterday at the Lucerne Street Overlook in Cayucos (5.8 miles away). Tail has two new fully grown inner tail feathers and one worn, frayed tail feather on the right side. See https://macaulaylibrary.org/asset/639847722. Otherwise this bird is dark below with pale mottling and shows a sharp angle at the back of an orange-yellow gular patch that has a faint pale outline below and at the point."
Reddish Egret (Egretta rufescens) (1)
- Reported Aug 04, 2025 10:01 by Thomas Wurster
- Villa Creek--Estero Bluffs State Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9688341&<ll...>,-120.9688341 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S265318603 - Comments: "Continuing juv, briefly returned to mouth of Villa Creek before flying down coast and out of sight. Flew down coast from creek mouth and returned at least twice during our survey."
Reddish Egret (Egretta rufescens) (1)
- Reported Aug 04, 2025 09:34 by Tom Edell
- Villa Creek--Estero Bluffs State Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9688341&<ll...>,-120.9688341 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S265140124 - Comments: "The continuing juvenile flew downcoast past me and then a little latter flew up coast. It landed in behind the beach foredune. This was an overall bluish-gray egret with a dark bill and legs and a pale eye. No photo."
Reddish Egret (Egretta rufescens) (1)
- Reported Aug 04, 2025 08:14 by Kevin Zimmer
- Villa Creek--Estero Bluffs State Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9688341&<ll...>,-120.9688341 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S265143842 - Comments: "Continuing juvenile, first found at least a week prior while I was in Texas. Mostly gray, with pale cinnamon tones to head and neck; conspicuous pale yellow eyes; black bill and legs; and distinctive foraging behavior (lurching about and changing direction erratically, often spreading one wing as if to balance). Later, seen flying south along the immediate coastline from the Villa Creek mouth."
Reddish Egret (Egretta rufescens) (1)
- Reported Aug 04, 2025 08:00 by Roger Hammer
- Villa Creek--Estero Bluffs State Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9688341&<ll...>,-120.9688341 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S265125291 - Comments: "cont bird; didn't try to approach for better pics today as the focus was on locating the BLVU, which was a dip. i still enjoyed the fishing antics of this juvenile, but it was resting near a GREA most of the time."
California Condor (Gymnogyps californianus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 04, 2025 09:30 by Roger Hammer
- Villa Creek Road, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9773589&<ll...>,-120.9773589 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S265120543 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "materialized seemingly out of nowhere and disappeared the same while my focus was on pinpointing the BLVU to no avail. #66 is LA Zoo bred from 15 years ago and is part of the Big Sur flock."
Black Vulture (Coragyps atratus) (1)
- Reported Aug 05, 2025 09:40 by Mark Mushkat
- Villa Creek Road, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9773589&<ll...>,-120.9773589 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S265257013 - Comments: "At (35.5052620, -120.9868054). Seen with five TUVU approx 3 miles up Villa Creek from HWY 1. Smaller than Turkey vulture, flapping irregularly to gain altitude. White panels in primaries apparent on upper and lower sides of bird, wings wider than those of TUVU. Tail also shorter, entirely dark head. First posted by Erik Jensen 7/31."
Black Vulture (Coragyps atratus) (1)
- Reported Aug 03, 2025 09:38 by Tom Edell
- Villa Creek--Estero Bluffs State Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9688341&<ll...>,-120.9688341 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S264847453 - Comments: "seen flying near Villa Creek Road (about 1.25 miles distant) at approximately 10:25 AM. I had joined others waiting on the small sandy hill at the south end of Villa Creek beach when it was spotted by KH. I had my scope and was able to compared it to adjacent flying Turkey Vultures. It was initially picked out by its choppy wing beat flight style (flap-flap-flap and glide), pale patches in the primaries, and lack of wings held in dihedral, or rocking motion. It was overall dark, had broader wings that were wider at the outer end than the Turkey Vultures, and the tail was short. I was unable to discern the head, bill or leg colors due to the distance. This is the third day it has been present in this area where it previously fed on a beached dead sea lion."
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eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 8/5/25 4:47 pm From: Rubba Johanna via groups.io <jer72701...> Subject: [slocobirding] Red-necked Phalarope, Turri Road
Belated post: seen Wednesday, July 31, late afternoon, a flock of about 30 Red-necked Phalarope on the westernmost, large pond at Turri Road. First, I saw a pair, cruising on the pond. Then, on a muddy strip towards the far end of the pond, I saw what I thought were a bunch of mud lumps. Then about half of them up and flew off westwards towards the bay. A short while later, most of the rest of them also flew towards the bay. The birds were quite far away, but I diagnosed Red-necked based on their black caps.
Also, just before I left, two noisy Killdeer flew in.
John Chesnut reports watching Turkey Vultures at the avocado ranch on Turri Rd (where he keeps honey bees) eating avocados. This is the second such report we’ve had, the first coming from Dennis H. on the Nipomo Mesa a couple of years ago.
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages our users to bird safely, responsibly, and mindfully. Please follow the recommendations of your local health authorities and respect any active travel restrictions in your area. For more information visit: https://ebird.org/news/please-bird-mindfully
Semipalmated Sandpiper (Calidris pusilla) (1)
- Reported Aug 03, 2025 18:17 by Reef Comer
- Turri Road Tidal Ponds, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8218378&<ll...>,-120.8218378 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S264924555 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing juvenile. Thankfully was in a small group of peeps close to overlook of first large pond. Just slightly larger than least with scaly- patterned, pale grayish upperside, faint wash on breast, dark cap, short, straight, blunt-tipped bill, and black legs.
Possibly 2 individuals, as I saw another at the further large pond with the majority of peeps, but this could’ve easily been the first bird, as that one flew a couple times and didn’t see it on way back."
Semipalmated Sandpiper (Calidris pusilla) (1)
- Reported Aug 03, 2025 18:17 by Lou McGonagill
- Turri Road Tidal Ponds, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8218378&<ll...>,-120.8218378 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S265101522 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing juvenile. Thankfully was in a small group of peeps close to overlook of first large pond. Just slightly larger than least with scaly- patterned, pale grayish upperside, faint wash on breast, dark cap, short, straight, blunt-tipped bill, and black legs.
Possibly 2 individuals, as I saw another at the further large pond with the majority of peeps, but this could’ve easily been the first bird, as that one flew a couple times and didn’t see it on way back."
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1)
- Reported Aug 04, 2025 12:49 by Josh McLaughlin
- Lucerne Dr. Vista Point -- Cayucos, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9141691&<ll...>,-120.9141691 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S265077447 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "With group of DCCOs on beach just below bluff, noticeably smaller and trimmer with longer tail, yellow gular pouch with pointed rear corner rules out PECO, pics"
Reddish Egret (Egretta rufescens) (1)
- Reported Aug 04, 2025 08:08 by Carol Comeau
- Villa Creek--Estero Bluffs State Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9688341&<ll...>,-120.9688341 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S265086868 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing. First seen foraging near creek mouth. At 11:10 AM it flew over head going south. It landed on some rocks just south of the Villa Creek beach. Photo."
Reddish Egret (Egretta rufescens) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 03, 2025 08:32 by Anonymous eBirder
- Villa Creek--Estero Bluffs State Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9688341&<ll...>,-120.9688341 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S264867740 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing in lagoon. Unmoving lump. Ashen blue with ruddy on face and a few spots elsewhere. Pale eye. Smaller than nearby egret. Distant photo."
Reddish Egret (Egretta rufescens) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 03, 2025 07:19 by Pair of Wing-Nuts
- Villa Creek--Estero Bluffs State Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9688341&<ll...>,-120.9688341 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S264901556 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing juvenile bird observed feeding with larger Great Egret and Great Blue Heron up creek from lagoon. Mostly bluish gray above with long neck and reddish hues on sides of head and heavy black beak."
Black Vulture (Coragyps atratus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 03, 2025 10:45 by The Spotting Twohees
- Villa Creek Road, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9773589&<ll...>,-120.9773589 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S264919614 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "The group chased the bird up Villa Creek Rd where it was relocated here within a few minutes, 35.476999, -120.977357 From this location the group saw it flying high overhead. By the time I arrived a few minutes later it was circling and drifting eastward. A few poor photos were taken. Distingished from TUVU by all black underwing and very light gray primaries, tail was noticably shorter than TUVU. No red was visible on the head. The bird flew farther east and was not seen again during this outing."
Black Vulture (Coragyps atratus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 03, 2025 10:39 by Anonymous eBirder
- Villa Creek Road, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9773589&<ll...>,-120.9773589 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S264867335 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing. Silvery white primaries, white legs, grey head. Seemed darker and stockier than turkey vultures. Shorter tail too. Wings appeared to lay flatter than a turkey vulture’s v-shape in flight. Circled and soared high in thermals, once or twice passing over caravan of cars and birders. Photo"
The bird was observed this morning flying with a flock of Turkey Vultures northeast of Villa Creek near the entrance to Villa Creek Road. A few birders drove north to Villa Creek Road and relocated it flying very high
Compared to the nearby Turkey Vultures this bird was overall smaller, broader winged, darker colored; shorter tail, and with white-tipped wings."
Black Vulture (Coragyps atratus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 03, 2025 10:38 by Petra Clayton
- Villa Creek Road, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9773589&<ll...>,-120.9773589 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S264855866 - Media: 6 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing since July 31, 2025 (Luke Jensen)
Seen mostly from the underside as the vulture was soaring overhead. Overall black; dark featherless head; dark bill; white, black-tipped finger-like outer primaries that appeared somewhat translucent; short, square tail; light-colored legs; non-rocking gliding flight with very few flaps; wings were not held in a dihedral (V) shape as with Turkey Vultures, but rather horizontally straight across.
Click on the image below for a Flickr video, showing the Black Vulture in flight:
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jack-petra-clayton/54698725810/in/dateposted-public/" title="Black Vulture (Coragyps atratus), Cayucos, CA"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/54698725810_d615f7401c_z.jpg" alt="Black Vulture (Coragyps atratus), Cayucos, CA" /></a>"
Black Vulture (Coragyps atratus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Aug 03, 2025 10:36 by Pair of Wing-Nuts
- Villa Creek Road, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9773589&<ll...>,-120.9773589 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S264911627 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Refound continuing bird (Luke Jensen 07.31.25) soaring in an easterly direction above Villa Creek Road at approximately (35°28'54.7"N 120°58'38.5"W). The vulture was gaining altitude quickly on wide, flat wings. Despite the altitude, its black head, short tail, distinctive white legs and feet and "white wing-mittens" comprised of white primaries were easily seen. Bird was in view for approximately 12-15 minutes but was eventually lost to the altitude and easterly flight path."
The bird was observed this morning flying with a flock of Turkey Vultures northeast of Villa Creek near the entrance to Villa Creek Road. A few birders drove north to Villa Creek Road and relocated it flying very high
Compared to the nearby Turkey Vultures this bird was overall smaller, broader winged, darker colored; shorter tail, and with white-tipped wings."
Black Vulture (Coragyps atratus) (1)
- Reported Aug 03, 2025 07:19 by Pair of Wing-Nuts
- Villa Creek--Estero Bluffs State Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9688341&<ll...>,-120.9688341 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S264901556 - Comments: "Observed continuing bird (Luke Jensen 07.31.25) from vantage point on south end of main Villa Creek beach (35°27'29.1"N 120°57'54.7"W). First spotted by KH about 1.2 miles NW of our position, the bird was starting it's ascent near and above hillside here (35°28'22.8"N 120°58'38.8"W ). Distinguished in flight from developing kettle of Turkey Vultures by its repeated, shallow and relatively rapid wing beats this bird's signature outer wing "white mittens" were easily seen as the morning sun chased off a stubborn marine layer. As the vulture disappeared behind some hills along Villa Creek Road we headed for our vehicles to get closer as it headed east."
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