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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.
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/
Finally, I’d like to commend all of you for your AMAZING submissions to the Bird Atlas effort, and to remind everyone that MORE information is ALWAYS a good thing. If the bird is carrying nesting materiel, then what is it? Grass? Sticks? Lichen? Did you notice what sort of tree the American Crow used for its sticks? Is the Oak Titmouse carrying food that happens to be Oak Moth Caterpillars? These details can be enormous in advancing the science we’re collecting. Take a moment, especially when finding nesting behavior, to describe the other plants and animals involved in the ecosystem.
Date: 4/13/26 2:44 pm From: njmann90 via groups.io <njmann50...> Subject: [slocobirding] Male Black-headed Grosbeak
FOS for my yard near SLO Vet's Hall Male Black-headed Grosbeak today.
NJM
--
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
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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.
Laughing Gull (Leucophaeus atricilla) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Apr 12, 2026 15:58 by Grace Hayes
- Cuesta Inlet, Los Osos US-CA (35.3201,-120.8505), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.850531&<ll...>,-120.850531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S320943639 - Comments: "Slender relatively small gull with small dark bill. Gray mantle with back wing tips extending over tail. Winter plumage without hooded head. Eye looks large and dark with black smudging near eye. Seen in location where it has been previously reported."
Gray Catbird (Dumetella carolinensis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Apr 12, 2026 09:38 by Jay Carroll
- 495 Ramona Ave, Los Osos US-CA 35.32021, -120.84518, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.845178&<ll...>,-120.845178 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S320802440 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Found earlier by Jeff Davis, the bird was mostly sheltering in a bushy Wax Myrtle tree, occasionally vocalizing a varied jumble of squeaky song phrases; plain appearance with overall unmarked gray plumage, black cap, darker tail, and chestnut undertail coverts; photos."
Gray Catbird (Dumetella carolinensis) (1)
- Reported Apr 12, 2026 10:05 by Petra Clayton
- Los Osos: Ramona Ave/Pine Ave, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8448963&<ll...>,-120.8448963 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S320933585 - Media: 1 Video, 5 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing since this morning (Jeff Davis).
Overall gray, black crown, black eye. Unable to see the color of the undertail as the bird was deep in dense shrubbery."
Gray Catbird (Dumetella carolinensis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Apr 12, 2026 09:03 by Connie Moss
- Ramona and Pine GRCA Stakeout, Baywood-Los Osos, California, US (35.32, -120.845), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8446649&<ll...>,-120.8446649 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S320801842 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing found by Jeff Davis overall, a grey bird with black cap and black tail was singing unfortunately I closed merlin without saving the recording ugh! Pics tba"
Gray Catbird (Dumetella carolinensis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Apr 12, 2026 09:03 by Michael Moss
- Ramona and Pine GRCA Stakeout, Baywood-Los Osos, California, US (35.32, -120.845), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8446649&<ll...>,-120.8446649 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S320801841 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing found by Jeff Davis overall, a grey bird with black cap and black tail was singing unfortunately I closed merlin without saving the recording ugh! Pics tba"
Gray Catbird (Dumetella carolinensis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Apr 12, 2026 09:16 by Doug Drynan
- Sweet Springs Nature Preserve, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8422726&<ll...>,-120.8422726 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S320804358 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "continuing bird first observed by Jeff Davis this AM at the corner of Pine and Ramona. when I arrived, Mike Moss had just seen and photographed the bird on the electrical wire above the clump of shrubs where it has been seen. After about 20 minutes of watching the bird came out into the open briefly. It was also occasionally singing deep within the shrubs. When it popped out, I could see the all grey bird with a black cap, and rusty undertail coverts."
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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 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.
Laughing Gull (Leucophaeus atricilla) (1)
- Reported Apr 11, 2026 11:14 by Michael Moss
- Cuesta Inlet (previously Doris Ave Marsh), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8493236&<ll...>,-120.8493236 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S320268882 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing found by Jim Royer this morning black bill, partial eye ring forming, patch grey mottling on back of neck and head, black wing terminals pic tba"
Laughing Gull (Leucophaeus atricilla) (1)
- Reported Apr 11, 2026 11:11 by Mark Mushkat
- Cuesta Inlet (previously Doris Ave Marsh), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8493236&<ll...>,-120.8493236 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S320255930 - Comments: "Reported by Jim R. Small immature gull, solid black bill, straight lower mandible, broken eye ring, dark legs, smudge behind eye, white crown, gray nape. Prominent white rump with wide black terminal band."
Laughing Gull (Leucophaeus atricilla) (1)
- Reported Apr 11, 2026 10:08 by Jim Royer
- Cuesta Inlet (previously Doris Ave Marsh), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8493236&<ll...>,-120.8493236 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S320425576 - Comments: "This gull was with a noticeably larger Western Gull on the exposed shore along the edge of the bay at Cuesta Inlet Mouth. It was superficially like a large Bonaparte’s or Franklins gull, but it had a larger black bill, mottled dark gray underwings, a wide black terminal tail band across the entire tail, a blackish smudge behind the dark eye, with gray back of neck and breast. Several other birders confirmed the sighting."
Summer Tanager (Piranga rubra) (1)
- Reported Apr 11, 2026 16:15 by Jim Royer
- My House, 337 Henrietta Ave., Los Osos US-CA (35.3172,-120.8507), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8507143&<ll...>,-120.8507143 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S320425819 - Comments: "First spring male. Large tanager with no obvious wingbars on olive wings, redial in chest, and head, and upper back. Pinkish wash below chest. Olive nape and undertail."
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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 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.
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Apr 10, 2026 07:57 by Nick & Jane
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S319720646 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing wintering female (since last fall). In park’s easternmost bottlebrush tree and then in diff tree adjacent to fence. Pale throat, black spots on white undertail coverts. Black-and-white streaky pattern. Photo"
Orange-crowned Warbler (Gray-headed) (Leiothlypis celata celata/orestera) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Apr 10, 2026 07:57 by Nick & Jane
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S319720646 - Comments: "Continuing. Found by mystery birder yesterday (yesterday I didn’t get a good look). Re-found in same area today. Greyish head. No photo."
Nashville Warbler (ridgwayi) (Leiothlypis ruficapilla ridgwayi) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Apr 10, 2026 07:57 by Nick & Jane
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S319720646 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "I’m curious why ridgewayi is coming up as rare. Isn’t this the western subspecies that migrates along the California coast to the Sierras, western Canada, etc.? Male bird. Photo."
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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 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.
Ovenbird (Seiurus aurocapilla) (1)
- Reported Apr 09, 2026 07:02 by The Spotting Twohees
- Ormonde Road, San Luis Obispo, California, US (35.178, -120.62), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6202201&<ll...>,-120.6202201 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S319312775 - Media: 2 Audio
- Comments: "Came back today to try and get a recording. After 1.5 hours it sang twice about 2 minutes apart. Bird was upstream from the bridge an unknown distance.
My recording is similar to the one in this checklist (researched by Nick Belardes) https://ebird.org/checklist/S70504737"
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1)
- Reported Apr 09, 2026 09:12 by Nick & Jane
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S319320950 - Comments: "Continuing wintering female refound by mystery birder! This individual hasn’t been seen for about a month. She was in a bottlebrush near Casa Diablo, then in an oak eating a bug. 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: 4/9/26 12:31 pm From: shawnabw via groups.io <shawnabw...> Subject: [slocobirding] Pelagic Trip April 18 from Morro Bay
Hi all!
I wanted to give an update for the upcoming Pelagic trip out of Morro Bay on April 18...
We will have on board Reef Comer, local resident of MB. He has been on 60+ pelagic trips and will be guiding, chumming, and identifying birds!
Things to note:
* We are limiting the capacity of the boat so as to not have it too crowded on board.
* We are limited to a 20 mile radius from the harbor per the certificate of our vessel.
* We have 17 spots left as of this post.
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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.
Redhead (Aythya americana) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Apr 04, 2026 07:56 by Paul Neuwald
- Oso Flaco Lake (not for beach/ocean), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6207848&<ll...>,-120.6207848 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S318843057 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Medium-sized diving duck with rusty-red head, black breast, and gray back, and a steep, blocky forehead. Found in the smaller lake on northside of trail at entrance to boardwalk. Ironically, another pair of Redheads were seen in the same place last year around the same time. Photos by Luke Jensen."
Calliope Hummingbird (Selasphorus calliope) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Apr 08, 2026 07:46 by Nick & Jane
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S318925435 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Adult male. Tiny hummer with lovely streaked rosy gorget. Short, squarish tail. Bright white around base of bill/gape. White chest. Green and buffy belly and vent. White patch behind eyes. Seen fly past into mid-park bottlebrush while I was very patiently examining the various waves of the hummingbird swarm. Seen a little while after spotting Black-chinneds. Location of calliope: 35.2678838,-120.6618018 photo"
Ovenbird (Seiurus aurocapilla) (1)
- Reported Apr 08, 2026 11:24 by Nick & Jane
- Ovenbird Party, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.62009&<ll...>,-120.62009 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S318928086 - Comments: "Continuing bird singing “teacher teacher teacher teacher teacher.” The song progressively got louder and ended abruptly. Heard sing 2-3 times while facing east on bridge overlooking creek. The finder (mystery birder) was around and noted that was the bird. Mystery birder also mentioned the warbler also called when originally found, though it didn’t call for us later. Bird was not seen. No recording."
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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: 4/8/26 10:14 am From: Kaaren Perry via groups.io <surfbird1...> Subject: [slocobirding] Another Oriole for the Spring list...
Following up my post of 4/5 regarding the Hooded and Bullock's orioles visiting our yard. We can now add another species of oriole to that list. On Sunday morning 4/5 I took 2 photos of an oriole perched on the electric wires over our yard. I initially identified it as a Hooded Oriole, the expected species this season. I later spent some time reviewing my photos, additional references and comments shared with me by others familiar with both species and now it is confirmed as adult female Orchard Oriole. A much rarer species to this county. Last county ebird report of the Orchard Oriole was at this location on February 15, 2026.
Separating female Hooded and Orchard orioles is known to be very tricky and I am posting the 2 photos on flickr of the confirmed female Orchard Oriole seen on Sunday, April 5. Maybe it will help sort out the 2 species the next time you see a female oriole?? 🤞.
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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.
Orchard Oriole (Icterus spurius) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Apr 05, 2026 09:30 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/S317545324 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Small female oriole with rounded head, short bill and short tail, . Retrices appear brownish olive. Originally reported as Hooded Oriole but on further study, review of photos and comments by others it is being reported now as adult female Orchard.
The bird appeared small but size was difficult to assess when seen from below perched on overhead wires with no other birds present for comparison."
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Apr 07, 2026 11:10 by Nick & Jane
- Damon-Garcia Sports Field, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6476746&<ll...>,-120.6476746 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S318461709 - Media: 7 Photos
- Comments: "First-year/adult male. Striking, gorgeous bird with high contrast black-and-white streaking, which shone especially thick with black streaks on upper chest and flanks. Overall, the bird was far more striking, bolder, less dull than the recent wintering female at Meadow Park, which itself was a fun, beautiful continuing bird. This male warbler had a stark black chin and mottled black-and-white throat, black auriculars, white malars, a white eyering, and thick black spots on its undertail coverts—the spots were thicker by base of tail. Even its double white wingbars popped (as did its bold head and back streaking). Its white undertail had a black base and black edges. Definitely the coolest and most impressive black-and-white specimen I’ve seen. It was crawling on trunks near the bridge between soccer fields (35.2510955,-120.6474989). At times it was with the orange-crowned warbler. Photos—though I wish they were as interesting as the experience."
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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: 4/7/26 9:10 am From: Ginger Langdon-Lassagne via groups.io <binzer...> Subject: [slocobirding] Bird Atlas Update and tips for better breeding codes
Hey folks! Bird Atlas Update!
Thank you again to everyone contributing to the California Bird Atlas. The latest edition of The Atlas Dispatch is now live. Click here <https://ebird.org/atlascalifornia/news/atlas-dispatch-march-2026> for a full update, including Atlas-first breeding records, field highlights from across the state, and some truly incredible photos. One of the aspects of working towards the goals of the Atlas is the way it gives my birding new excitement & purpose. In this edition of The Atlas Dispatch, we have a few “mini-missions” for you to check out: 1) “tell someone new about the Atlas”; 2) “Atlas somewhere unexpected”; and 3) “Note how species are interconnected.”
I’d like to thank everyone for the effort in using the breeding codes correctly. One of the toughest things to determine is which code to use, when you see an actual nest. The guidance on this page is key: https://ebird.org/atlascalifornia/about/breeding-codes
A word to the wise: woodpeckers and wrens are weird! ALL of our Woodpeckers, most of our Wrens (more data needed on Rock & Canyon Wrens), and also Scaly-breasted Munia & Verdin, build “decoy nests” that can be used for overnight roosting but never end up being used for eggs or nestlings! The code to use for Wrens seen carrying nesting material or Woodpeckers excavating a cavityis B — do not use the code CN for these species.
Another difficulty happens when we find a nest and an adjacent adult bird, but cannot see into the nest or hear any nestlings cheeping. Never jump to conclusions! It is only an Occupied Nest (ON) if it is an “...adult sitting in nest in incubating position, adult entering nest site and remaining, or exchange of incubation duties by the pair. This code is useful for nests high in trees, on cliffs, and in chimneys where the contents of the nest and incubating or brooding adult cannot be seen.” We have a lot of Cliff Swallows passing through the county on their way to points northward, and many of them are excitedly visiting nesting sites from past years’ breeding by other individuals - these should be coded “N” because no incubation of eggs is happening this early. Having said that, if you see behavior that you think could be indicating a case of super-early egg-laying or nestlings? Put those behaviors into documentation on your checklist: words, photos, audio or video are vital for this!
Thanks for all of your efforts! If you have any questions about the Atlas or the breeding codes, or just want to chat about a fun breeding behavior you observed, feel free to email me, anytime.
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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.
Redhead (Aythya americana) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Apr 04, 2026 07:56 by TEDDY LLOVET
- Oso Flaco Lake (not for beach/ocean), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6207848&<ll...>,-120.6207848 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S317610766 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Medium-sized diving duck with rusty-red head, black breast, and gray back, and a steep, blocky forehead. Found in the smaller lake on northside of trail at entrance to boardwalk. Ironically, another pair of Redheads were seen in the same place last year around the same time. Photos by Luke Jensen."
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.
Redhead (Aythya americana) (2)
- Reported Apr 05, 2026 06:47 by Maggie Smith
- Oso Flaco Lake (not for beach/ocean), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6207848&<ll...>,-120.6207848 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S317551439 - Comments: "Seen in small opening onto small lake directly across from entrance to bridge. Male with rounded red head, gray back, black breast, yellow eye and black tipped blue gray bill; female all brown with gray bill."
Redhead (Aythya americana) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Apr 04, 2026 07:56 by Debra Cherry
- Oso Flaco Lake (not for beach/ocean), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6207848&<ll...>,-120.6207848 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S317515594 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Medium-sized diving duck with rusty-red head, black breast, and gray back, and a steep, blocky forehead. Found in the smaller lake on northside of trail at entrance to boardwalk. Ironically, another pair of Redheads were seen in the same place last year around the same time. Photos by Luke Jensen."
Redhead (Aythya americana) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Apr 04, 2026 07:56 by di dickey
- Oso Flaco Lake (not for beach/ocean), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6207848&<ll...>,-120.6207848 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S317071892 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Medium-sized diving duck with rusty-red head, black breast, and gray back, and a steep, blocky forehead. Found in the smaller lake on northside of trail at entrance to boardwalk. Ironically, another pair of Redheads were seen in the same place last year around the same time. Photos by Luke Jensen."
Redhead (Aythya americana) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Apr 04, 2026 07:56 by Cameron Ward
- Oso Flaco Lake (not for beach/ocean), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6207848&<ll...>,-120.6207848 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S317096919 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Medium-sized diving duck with rusty-red head, black breast, and gray back, and a steep, blocky forehead. Found in the smaller lake on northside of trail at entrance to boardwalk. Ironically, another pair of Redheads were seen in the same place last year around the same time. Photos by Luke Jensen."
Redhead (Aythya americana) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Apr 04, 2026 07:56 by Jaimie Bruzenak
- Oso Flaco Lake (not for beach/ocean), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6207848&<ll...>,-120.6207848 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S317104256 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Medium-sized diving duck with rusty-red head, black breast, and gray back, and a steep, blocky forehead. Found in the smaller lake on northside of trail at entrance to boardwalk. Ironically, another pair of Redheads were seen in the same place last year around the same time. Photos by Luke Jensen."
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: 4/5/26 3:38 pm From: Kaaren Perry via groups.io <surfbird1...> Subject: [slocobirding] Morro Bay checking in.... April has kicked off!!
More than likely I am not the only one that has been eagerly awaiting April's Spring arrivals.
To date the most noticeable number of migrants here in our Morro Bay yard has been the growing number of Oriole's. Two species have arrived in good numbers with at least 8 Hooded Orioles briefly perching on a leafless maple before moving on in a flock. 2 HOOR, adult male and female had been seen during March and continue.
A small group of Bullock's Orioles were seen while perching on the wires. The BUOR group had 2 young male and 1 female type, always fun to sort out age and sex at this time.
The Harris's Sparrow returned to our yard after last being seeing here on March 10. When it hadn't returned in March I had believed and posted that it had more than likely moved on. Very surprised and pleased to witness it's return on April 2. It was still visiting our yard today, Thursday April 5.
As expected White-crowned and Golden-crowned numbers continue to decline .
Hummmm .... Wonder who will be next to pass through? 😎
Date: 4/5/26 11:50 am From: Judy Neuhauser via groups.io <picaloki...> Subject: [slocobirding] Spring migration
Spring migration seems to be happening in Los Osos. This morning I had a flock of 12 Cedar Wax-wings, a pair of Black-headed Grosbeaks, and a single Brown-headed Cowbird (new to my yard). I checked birdcast.info <http://birdcast.info/>, which shows a lot of movement along the west coast this year at this time, compared to the same date for the previous 3 years.
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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.
Redhead (Aythya americana) (2)
- Reported Apr 04, 2026 07:56 by Robbie & Bob Revel
- Oso Flaco Lake (not for beach/ocean), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6207848&<ll...>,-120.6207848 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S316954376 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Medium-sized diving duck with rusty-red head, black breast, and gray back, and a steep, blocky forehead. Found in the smaller lake on northside of trail at entrance to boardwalk. Ironically, another pair of Redheads were seen in the same place last year around the same time. Photos by Luke Jensen."
Long-tailed Duck (Clangula hyemalis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Apr 01, 2026 11:40 by Petra Clayton
- San Simeon Creek Mouth/Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1267052&<ll...>,-121.1267052 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S315769137 - Media: 1 Video, 9 Photos
- Comments: "Female continuing since 12/1/2025 (Reef Comer). Not reported at this location from 1/1/26 to 2/5/26.
Round head; white face and neck; dark crown stripe continuing to nape; dark cheek patch that extends from the nape to the chin; bluish bill with dark nail.
Today observed preening in the creek west of the Highway one bridge."
Red-necked Grebe (Podiceps grisegena) (1)
- Reported Apr 03, 2026 13:26 by Alex Pellegrini
- Morro Rock, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8670566&<ll...>,-120.8670566 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S316498470 - Comments: "Medium grebe, basic plumage, sharp and heavy predominantly yellow bill with a dusky wash on the upper mandible, white flanks and cheek wrapping underneath the chin, dark back. (35.3634384, -120.8631901) Photos tba"
Harris's Sparrow (Zonotrichia querula) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Apr 03, 2026 14:00 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/S316517381 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing at this location. Seen perched on utility wires before dropping to feed on seeds and weeds in the lower garden. Drinking from water feature on a few occasions during the visit. It disappeared and reappeared in the garden several times during the afternoon"
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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 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.
Redhead (Aythya americana) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Apr 02, 2026 09:11 by Ann Stockert
- Oso Flaco Lake (not for beach/ocean), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6207848&<ll...>,-120.6207848 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S316098238 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Rare and irregular spring migrant/dispersal here.
One female-plumaged bird was seen diving with Scaups on the southeast side of the beginning of the east boardwalk entrance here: (35.030360, -120.620503). Not sure if this is a continuing bird originally found here on Saturday 3/28 (when a pair was photographed) or whether this is a new bird. Regardless, this was a uniformly light brown Aythya duck with slightly darker brown scapulars and wing coverts, a broken pale eyering, and a faint pale postocular streak. The bill was a mostly veiled dark gray color with a paler band near the bill tip, and the bill tip itself was a darker black color. The bird’s legs and feet were a pale grayish color, though this was only seen for short periods of time as this bird was actively diving. Between dives the head shape was rounded and the forehead was steep. Before diving it compressed its plumage (presumably to squeeze out any excess air) before jumping slightly out of the water and forward to dive. This gave the head a slightly “blockier” appearance just prior to diving. Compared to nearby Scaup, this duck was larger with a proportionately longer neck. We were able to study and successfully attempt to photograph this bird for ~5 minutes at a reasonable distance before moving on."
Harris's Sparrow (Zonotrichia querula) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Apr 02, 2026 11:20 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/S316058822 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Arrived with a small mixed flock. Seen feeding from scattered seeds and various small weeds before moving to the grassy area to forage. A few drinks from the water features. The bird revisited the area throughout the day. Last seen at this location March 10. Upon review of past submitted photos plumage changes from juvenile, immature and heading to adult breeding were apparent."
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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: 4/2/26 12:29 pm From: Ginger Langdon-Lassagne via groups.io <binzer...> Subject: [slocobirding] California Bird Atlas: news and pointers for better data
Happy April to all birders! Spring has sprung here, and we are seeing and hearing more and more of the birds who call SLO County their home for the breeding season!
I’d like to update you all on the latest local news from the California Breeding Bird Atlas Project. San Luis Obispo County is CRUSHING IT. As of this past weekend, less than 3 months into the project, we hit 50% of our total atlas blocks visited, within our county!!!

[Image of SLO County’s atlas blocks, from here: https://ebird.org/atlascalifornia/effortmap ]
This is is an absolutely phenomenal result for a county that’s this rural, and contains so much land that’s military/private ranch/Diablo Canyon Power Plant inaccessible to the public. We are working to gain access to many of those blocks, and I’ll eventually be reaching out to volunteers to go into those spaces. Let me know if you would like to be on that short list!
Additionally, the quality of the data that you all are producing is truly excellent. The vast majority of the breeding codes that we are seeing used in this county are accurate and well-documented. You are all doing so much for SCIENCE! If you haven’t joined the project yet, for whatever reason, please know that we’re open to people joining whenever it makes sense for you, and sooner is always better! If you want to look into more on what we’ve been doing, here’s the California Bird Atlas YouTube Channel with more information: https://www.youtube.com/@CaliforniaBirdAtlas
For those that have already joined, I’d like to pass on a couple pointers that might help us be even more fabulous in the data collection effort. When you are in the field, and you hear a bird making a sound, it can be challenging to determine if this is a time when you should use the “S” code for “singing bird.” Wrentits are known for “singing” year-round, for one example. Here’s a good rule of thumb to keep in mind: if the sound is described as “song” in the Sibley app or in Cornell’s Merlin app, then it’s a singing bird. Often, we encounter birds singing here that typically migrate away to other places to breed. It’s appropriate to us the “S” code for a Yellow-rumped Warbler singing at Morro Bay Marina, or a White-crowned Sparrow in Paso Robles, even though they’re unlikely to breed there. If you detect some indication that the bird is actively defending a nesting area with the song, you can mention that in the comments. So… don’t be afraid to use “S” for birds that are going to migrate. Additionally, I’d encourage you to familiarize yourself with what *IS* the song of the more common birds. The Spotted Towhee was a surprise for me!
Comments in the checklist, and other documentation such as photo or audio or video, are truly VITAL in the bird atlas efforts. Sometimes, I find myself in the grocery store parking lot without a camera, when a bird is exhibiting breeding behavior. If you’re not able to take a video, then a narrative description of EXACTLY what you observed is crucial to the final analysis of the data. If it’s carrying food, what was the food? Going from where? To where? Don’t try to get inside what the bird is thinking. Just report how you saw it behave. A funny example of this — I recently thought I saw courtship behavior between two California Towhees in my garden. They approached each other, fluttered their wings like fledglings do, and proceeded to pick up a stick and a blade of grass, respectively. I thought, “Awwww, they are gathering nesting material! How sweet!” After dancing around each other for about 30 seconds, one of them attacked the other with its stick! I looked up the behavior of California Towhees in Birds of the World, and discovered I wasn’t witnessing courtship — it was a “knife fight” of territorial defense! Your best tools for this task are Cornell’s Birds of the World and Merlin bird ID’s audio database.
Thanks for reading along if you’ve made it this far into the message. :-) I hope to make these a regular feature here on Fridays, with weekly tips for using the codes, and requests for specific locations to round out our coverage of the county. For now, just know that you all are doing so much more than we expected when his project began! THANK YOU!
Loving this Community Where I Live & Bird,
Ginger Langdon-Lassagne
Regional Co-Coordinator, California Bird Atlas
<binzer...>
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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.
Summer Tanager (Piranga rubra) (1)
- Reported Apr 01, 2026 11:00 by Jamie Woolf
- 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/S315668541 - Comments: "Likely the same bird reported by Ann Stockert on March 30. Greenish body, orangish head with flecks of red. It was silent. It flew into a tree in the native garden area where we had good looks at it."
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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 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.
Long-tailed Duck (Clangula hyemalis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 30, 2026 11:00 by Robbie & Bob Revel
- San Simeon Creek Mouth/Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1267052&<ll...>,-121.1267052 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S315259405 - Comments: "White belly, dark back, small bill, smallish head. Distinctive White face. Dark on lower cheek.LTDU was swimming and diving in the creek underneath the bridge over highway 1."
Western x Clark's Grebe (hybrid) (Aechmophorus occidentalis x clarkii) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 27, 2026 08:44 by Robbie & Bob Revel
- Santa Margarita Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.4874811&<ll...>,-120.4874811 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S315259622 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Photos and Notes by KH
*Rare. Seen while sorting through a raft of grebes here: (35.323208, -120.453683). There may have been a 1-2 more hybrids in the same raft as this one but they quickly dove when the raft was flushed by a passing boat (not us). It is also worth noting that we did see ~4 mixed grebe species pairs on the lake today.
This Aechmophorus grebe was mostly like Clark’s (having the orangey bill and paler flanks of that species), but also had somewhat of a thicker hind neck stripe that is more typical of Western. Most striking, however, was that the dark hood extended down below and completely encompassed the eye, extending into a point nearly connecting to the bill gape.
This bird did not appear to be paired up like most grebes were/are at this point. We studied this bird for about a minute at a reasonably close distance before a passing boat flushed the raft. MB and I were able to get photos."
Swainson's Hawk (Buteo swainsoni) (2)
- Reported Mar 31, 2026 07:49 by Will Knowlton
- 10827–10891 CA-46 E, Paso Robles US-CA (35.6586,-120.4893), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.489259&<ll...>,-120.489259 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S315369260 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Pair observed nest building. One adult was doing most of the nest building, while the other adult perched nearby and sometimes made short flights to the nest. The nest is located about a half mile from this location. A scope is needed for viewing. Distant scope photos included that show the dark bib and white chin of one of the adults. Both were observed flying and showed long, pointed wings with white underwing coverts in flight."
Ash-throated Flycatcher (Myiarchus cinerascens) (1)
- Reported Mar 31, 2026 09:33 by Ann Stockert
- Cerro Alto Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.7491446&<ll...>,-120.7491446 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S315410272 - Comments: "Early but not unexpected as it has thus far been a good early spring for this and some other species. This unseen bird was heard briefly from the upper part of the road giving several typical burry “ka-breer” calls. It sounded far off on a nearby hill but still close enough to clearly identify. No photos or audio recordings were attempted."
Ash-throated Flycatcher (Myiarchus cinerascens) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 27, 2026 08:44 by Robbie & Bob Revel
- Santa Margarita Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.4874811&<ll...>,-120.4874811 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S315259622 - Comments: "Notes by KH
*Early, but not that unexpected as it has thus far been a good early spring for this and some other species. This unseen bird was heard briefly from the boat giving several typical burry “ka-brick” calls from here: (35.322242, -120.446106). I am not sure whether or not others were able to hear this bird; a nearby thrasher singing at the same time did not help. No photos or audio recordings were attempted."
Black-throated Gray Warbler (Setophaga nigrescens) (3)
- Reported Mar 31, 2026 09:33 by Ann Stockert
- Cerro Alto Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.7491446&<ll...>,-120.7491446 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S315410272 - Comments: "Slightly early, and a rather high count for March. One ASY male was seen initially feeding in the oak canopy ~20 yards along the Boy Scout Trail from the first parking lot, and then later two more ASY males were seen in a warbler flock ~100 yards up the road from the first parking lot. The first bird was mostly seen from below, and we were able to note the mostly white underparts with dark blobby streaked down the sides and onto the flanks and the pale undertail with dark edges. We were able to see the head more clearly as it foraged, noting the entirely black throat, auriculars, and crown that contrasted with the bright white malar and supercillium. Also visible was the small yellow supraloral spot of this species, a small dark bill, and dark legs and feet. This individual caught a fly or winged insect of some sort and was last seen flying towards the lower parking lot. The other two ASY males were seen much closer and at eye level in willows and small oaks and showed all characteristics mentioned in the first individual in addition to dark-streaked backs bluish-gray backs, wing coverts, and tail, as well as double white wingbars. All birds were vocal giving flat “chup” calls and at least one singing a typical buzzy “zeedle zeedle zeedle zeet-chee” song. I (KH) was able to get photos of the first bird and Ann was able to get photos of at least one if not both of the later birds."
Hermit Warbler (Setophaga occidentalis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 27, 2026 08:44 by Robbie & Bob Revel
- Santa Margarita Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.4874811&<ll...>,-120.4874811 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S315259622 - Comments: "Early, though not overly surprising given what has thus far been an early spring for this and several other species.
I (KH) first noticed this bird upon hearing an interesting song emanating from a small stand of pines from the boat as we were slowly moving along the lake edge around here: (35.325050, -120.456180). The song was similar to Townsend’s to my ear, but clearly less buzzy with more of a ringing quality, etc.
My view of this bird was brief and not very good, but I was able to see what appeared to be a small grayish warbler with wing bars and what appeared to probably be a yellow face lacking a dark cheek patch (not seen overly well), a definite pale breast lacking any yellow color below the throat, pale flanks lacking any sort of streaking, and white outer tail feathers. This bird did appear to have a good amount of black in the throat (and was singing) indicating a male, but I was unable to see the extent of black in the throat and whether or not there were dark centers or molt limits in the median secondary wing coverts so I am not sure whether it was a SY or ASY bird.
Almost immediately upon locating the bird in the small stand of pines it flew to an adjacent Oak before flying back and out of sight. I believe one or two people may have heard the bird singing but I believe I was the only person to see the bird, unfortunately. No photos were attempted and we did not linger."
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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/
A Black- headed Grosbeak just showed up at our feeder. Grabbed a whole corn kernel, turned it so half was against the limb and cut it in half. Impressive!
Judy Neuhauser
Los Osos
Date: 3/31/26 11:37 am From: Kaaren Perry via groups.io <surfbird1...> Subject: [slocobirding] [CALBIRDS] Coastal seabird numbers and mortality
Hello All,
A few days ago a non-birding friend of mine had been walking the beach in Morro Bay and saw many dead "black and white" birds dead along the sand. Never a good sign! I was unaware of the situation and today a notice on CalBirds provided some information. Sending the email along FYI, forwarded to CalBirds by Paul Lehman.
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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.
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 29, 2026 10:02 by Andrea Williams
- Morro Bay Estuary (use more specific location(s) when possible), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8501072&<ll...>,-120.8501072 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S314870315 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing female - Large sea duck with sturdy build was nearly all brown except for dark barring on breast, white arm-pits, limited white on underwing and black sloping bill. Observed swimming about .25mi north of oyster farm before taking flight east to mudflat to loaf with a growing flock of Double-created cormorants. All aboard treated to exciting views of the duck on the water and tasking flight."
Long-tailed Duck (Clangula hyemalis) (1)
- Reported Mar 30, 2026 12:44 by Robbie & Bob Revel
- 500 San Simeon-Monterey Creek Road, Cambria, California, US (35.595, -121.125), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1245832&<ll...>,-121.1245832 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S314932072 - Comments: "White belly, dark back, small bill, smallish head. Distinctive White face. Dark on lower cheek.LTDU was swimming and diving in the creek underneath the bridge over highway 1."
Tennessee Warbler (Leiothlypis peregrina) (1)
- Reported Mar 30, 2026 10:01 by Ann Stockert
- 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/S314975218 - Comments: "Rare but regular. Ann and I (KH) had been looking through what I can only describe as a “flock” of warblers for about five minutes at the beginning of the maintenance road when an (at least mostly) alternate-plumaged Tennessee Warbler appeared suddenly in the willow understory on the west side of the road. I was able to note the emerald green back contrasting with the pale grayish underside and head and pale supercillium of this species. The bill was thin and short. It appeared as though this bird was raggedy and in molt and that there were some buffy feathers on the side of the breast, but I am not certain of this based on my very brief view and also not certain as to whether or not that would be retained basic or newly replaced alternate. We did hear it giving sweet chip calls both before and just after seeing this bird, sounding similar to a Yellow Warbler’s chip calls but higher pitched and sharper.
It only appeared for a split second before flying across the road and out of sight. Our views of this bird were good and unobstructed, but were also extremely brief.
This is certainly a wintering individual as opposed to some early migrant of sorts. Unfortunately due to the brevity of the observation, no photos were taken."
Orange-crowned Warbler (Gray-headed) (Leiothlypis celata celata/orestera) (2)
- Reported Mar 30, 2026 10:01 by Ann Stockert
- 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/S314975218 - Comments: "Continuing lingering wintering birds….
Ann and I were able to relocate these two SY birds in the same locations that I (KH) had them on March 22nd with one in the native garden and one at the base of the peninsula.
These two Orange-crowned were noticeably duller than expected in bright green L. c. lutescens at this time of year, and both had brighter pale eye arcs as well. The breast and upper belly of these birds was lightly streaked and the undertail was very weakly and sparsely streaked olive, far less so and weaker than L. c. sordida and more than L. c. lutescens. Both birds were in active molt on 3/22 and had some retained grayish formative feathers on the head - today it appeared as though most of any retained formative plumage has been replaced. I suspect both individuals pertain to L. c. orestera over L. c. celata (nominate), but I cannot be certain. Both birds were silent.
My view of both birds was decent, and I briefly attempted to photograph both of these birds but was unsuccessful and I believe Ann was as well."
Yellow-rumped Warbler (Myrtle x Audubon's) (Setophaga coronata coronata x auduboni) (4)
- Reported Mar 30, 2026 10:01 by Ann Stockert
- 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/S314975218 - Comments: "Uncommon, and vastly underreported. This is somewhat of a high count of this intergrade especially considering the rather low number of YRWAs present here today.
All four of these birds were seen at various times while watching the warbler “flock” at the beginning of the maintenance road. All appeared to be new birds and different from the 2-3 KH has seen here within the last week.
Bird 1: This SY(?) male was similar to Myrtle but had a reduced weaker supercillium and slightly pale yellow-tinged throat that did not extend around the auriculars as much as expected in pure Myrtle. Also, the dark breast patch was reduced in size and mostly limited to the upper breast almost creating a “breast band”.
Bird 2: This ASY(?) female looked essentially like Audubon’s but the edges of the throat were pale and extended obviously around the auriculars.
Bird 3: This ASY(?) male looked similar to Audubon’s but had faint pale edges to the yellow throat extending around the auriculars, a faint dark mask, and faint remnants of a supercillium.
Bird 4: This SY(?) female looked similar to Audubon’s but had a mostly pale throat with a yellow splotch in the center. This is ok for “pure” Audubon’s in the fall, but in this individual the pale throat was a brighter, more contrasting white than expected in an immature Audubon’s. Additionally, the pale edges of the throat extended partially around the auriculars.
At least one of these birds was heard giving a chip call that sounded intermediate between Myrtle and Audubon’s.
Our view of all birds varied between good point blank views and obscured views further back in the willow understory, but regardless we still were able to study all individuals for a reasonable amount of time.
Unfortunately these birds did largely stay deep in the willow understory which made obtaining photographs difficult, and we were ultimately unsuccessful in our attempts to photograph these birds."
Summer Tanager (Piranga rubra) (1)
- Reported Mar 30, 2026 10:01 by Ann Stockert
- 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/S314975218 - Comments: "Rare but regular. Ann and I were able to relocate this continuing SY male Summer Tanager in a pine near the amphitheater area, although it eventually flew back towards the native garden. It appeared to be eating bees.
This was a uniformly dull mustard-colored Tanager with green and orange tones as well. I was able to see the large horn-colored beak of this species and lack of wing bars. There was splotchy red feathers on the head, breast, rump, vent, and possibly back of this bird.
It was silent during this observation. My views were good, unobstructed, and reasonably close as well. KH has 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 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.
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 29, 2026 10:02 by Robbie & Bob Revel
- Morro Bay Estuary (use more specific location(s) when possible), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8501072&<ll...>,-120.8501072 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S314557221 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing female - Large sea duck with sturdy build was nearly all brown except for dark barring on breast, white arm-pits, limited white on underwing and black sloping bill. Observed swimming about .25mi north of oyster farm before taking flight east to mudflat to loaf with a growing flock of Double-created cormorants. All aboard treated to exciting views of the duck on the water and tasking flight."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 29, 2026 10:02 by Judy G
- Morro Bay Estuary (use more specific location(s) when possible), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8501072&<ll...>,-120.8501072 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S314613249 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing female - Large sea duck with sturdy build was nearly all brown except for dark barring on breast, white arm-pits, limited white on underwing and black sloping bill. Observed swimming about .25mi north of oyster farm before taking flight east to mudflat to loaf with a growing flock of Double-created cormorants. All aboard treated to exciting views of the duck on the water and tasking flight."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 29, 2026 10:02 by Mark Mushkat
- Morro Bay Estuary (use more specific location(s) when possible), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8501072&<ll...>,-120.8501072 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S314599548 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing female - Large sea duck with sturdy build was nearly all brown except for dark barring on breast, white arm-pits, limited white on underwing and black sloping bill. Observed swimming about .25mi north of oyster farm before taking flight east to mudflat to loaf with a growing flock of Double-created cormorants. All aboard treated to exciting views of the duck on the water and tasking flight."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 29, 2026 10:02 by Pair of Wing-Nuts
- Morro Bay Estuary (use more specific location(s) when possible), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8501072&<ll...>,-120.8501072 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S314516099 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing female - Large sea duck with sturdy build was nearly all brown except for dark barring on breast, white arm-pits, limited white on underwing and black sloping bill. Observed swimming about .25mi north of oyster farm before taking flight east to mudflat to loaf with a growing flock of Double-created cormorants. All aboard treated to exciting views of the duck on the water and taking flight."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 29, 2026 10:02 by Brenda Linfield
- Morro Bay Estuary (use more specific location(s) when possible), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8501072&<ll...>,-120.8501072 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S314567810 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing female - Large sea duck with sturdy build was nearly all brown except for dark barring on breast, white arm-pits, limited white on underwing and black sloping bill. Observed swimming about .25mi north of oyster farm before taking flight east to mudflat to loaf with a growing flock of Double-created cormorants. All aboard treated to exciting views of the duck on the water and tasking flight."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 29, 2026 10:02 by Steve Acheff
- Morro Bay Estuary (use more specific location(s) when possible), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8501072&<ll...>,-120.8501072 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S314565432 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing female - Large sea duck with sturdy build was nearly all brown except for dark barring on breast, white arm-pits, limited white on underwing and black sloping bill. Observed swimming about .25mi north of oyster farm before taking flight east to mudflat to loaf with a growing flock of Double-created cormorants. All aboard treated to exciting views of the duck on the water and tasking flight."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 29, 2026 10:02 by Lisa Ankenbrandt
- Morro Bay Estuary (use more specific location(s) when possible), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8501072&<ll...>,-120.8501072 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S314564202 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing female - Large sea duck with sturdy build was nearly all brown except for dark barring on breast, white arm-pits, limited white on underwing and black sloping bill. Observed swimming about .25mi north of oyster farm before taking flight east to mudflat to loaf with a growing flock of Double-created cormorants. All aboard treated to exciting views of the duck on the water and tasking flight."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 29, 2026 10:02 by Jaimie Bruzenak
- Morro Bay Estuary (use more specific location(s) when possible), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8501072&<ll...>,-120.8501072 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S314563323 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing female - Large sea duck with sturdy build was nearly all brown except for dark barring on breast, white arm-pits, limited white on underwing and black sloping bill. Observed swimming about .25mi north of oyster farm before taking flight east to mudflat to loaf with a growing flock of Double-created cormorants. All aboard treated to exciting views of the duck on the water and tasking flight."
Long-tailed Duck (Clangula hyemalis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 28, 2026 17:03 by Pair of Wing-Nuts
- San Simeon Creek Mouth/Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1267052&<ll...>,-121.1267052 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S314330180 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing wintering small sea duck (Reef Comer 12.01.25) showed mostly brown plumage with gray/brown scapulars, white belly, white on lower neck, face and flanks, brown eye and crown strip and shorter bill that was greenish/blue at base and gray blue to tip with dark black nail."
Western x Clark's Grebe (hybrid) (Aechmophorus occidentalis x clarkii) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 27, 2026 08:44 by Mike Bush
- Santa Margarita Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.4874811&<ll...>,-120.4874811 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S314624095 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Photos and Notes by KH
*Rare. Seen while sorting through a raft of grebes here: (35.323208, -120.453683). There may have been a 1-2 more hybrids in the same raft as this one but they quickly dove when the raft was flushed by a passing boat (not us). It is also worth noting that we did see ~4 mixed grebe species pairs on the lake today.
This Aechmophorus grebe was mostly like Clark’s (having the orangey bill and paler flanks of that species), but also had somewhat of a thicker hind neck stripe that is more typical of Western. Most striking, however, was that the dark hood extended down below and completely encompassed the eye, extending into a point nearly connecting to the bill gape.
This bird did not appear to be paired up like most grebes were/are at this point. We studied this bird for about a minute at a reasonably close distance before a passing boat flushed the raft. MB and I were able to get photos."
Western x Clark's Grebe (hybrid) (Aechmophorus occidentalis x clarkii) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 27, 2026 08:44 by Debbie Jo Bird
- Santa Margarita Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.4874811&<ll...>,-120.4874811 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S314704894 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Photos and Notes by KH
*Rare. Seen while sorting through a raft of grebes here: (35.323208, -120.453683). There may have been a 1-2 more hybrids in the same raft as this one but they quickly dove when the raft was flushed by a passing boat (not us). It is also worth noting that we did see ~4 mixed grebe species pairs on the lake today.
This Aechmophorus grebe was mostly like Clark’s (having the orangey bill and paler flanks of that species), but also had somewhat of a thicker hind neck stripe that is more typical of Western. Most striking, however, was that the dark hood extended down below and completely encompassed the eye, extending into a point nearly connecting to the bill gape.
This bird did not appear to be paired up like most grebes were/are at this point. We studied this bird for about a minute at a reasonably close distance before a passing boat flushed the raft. MB and I were able to get photos."
Swainson's Hawk (Buteo swainsoni) (1)
- Reported Mar 28, 2026 09:15 by Stephen Peterson
- 35.658727°; -120.489287°, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.4892931&<ll...>,-120.4892931 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S314466511 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Observed what appeared to be a light morph SWHA on an active nest in valley oak on the south side of CA Hwy 46 E from a viewing vantage point at approximately 35.658727°; -120.489287° . A light morph adult was reported by Will Knowlton on March 25 in this general location. I believe that this may be the same individual. Was able to observe a single hawk on nest from about 950 ft away. Heat haze made ID difficult. I thought that this just might be a very light looking RTHA, but the bird did not move much,other than to stand for a few minutes and then get down into an incubation position. I have attached a few photos that show the nest site and hawk sitting on the nest. No other hawks were observed in the immediate area of this line of oak trees. I would be happy for any feedback on this siting. It also seems a bit early for SWHA to be incubating if this is indeed a SWHA nest. I observed another two SWHA individuals (ID confirmed with photos; see other report) defending a territory from RTHA and displaying aerial courtship behavior approximately 2 miles east of this area."
Swainson's Hawk (Buteo swainsoni) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 28, 2026 10:45 by Stephen Peterson
- 35.659221; -120.448315 - Shandon Rd, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.448315&<ll...>,-120.448315 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S314477849 - Media: 6 Photos
- Comments: "In same general location as first reported by Will Knowlton on Mar 26. I initially sat on Shandon Rd, south of CA 46 E to observe large oak trees to the south, where I could make out what appeared to be a nest structure near the top in the tallest oak, but saw no hawks. After about 15 minutes, a couple of RTHA approached high above the suspected nest tree and then I observed two adult SWHA fly in from the north side of CA 46 E and attack the two RTHA, displaying a territory response. There was a little back and forth chasing between the species, but the RTHA eventually flew off to the south. The SWHA pair were then observed soaring over the hills north of CA 46 E, displaying courtship behavior with stooping dives, talons out towards each other (although no locking), and calling. Photos attached."
Ash-throated Flycatcher (Myiarchus cinerascens) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 27, 2026 08:44 by Mike Bush
- Santa Margarita Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.4874811&<ll...>,-120.4874811 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S314624095 - Comments: "Notes by KH
*Early, but not that unexpected as it has thus far been a good early spring for this and some other species. This unseen bird was heard briefly from the boat giving several typical burry “ka-brick” calls from here: (35.322242, -120.446106). I am not sure whether or not others were able to hear this bird; a nearby thrasher singing at the same time did not help. No photos or audio recordings were attempted."
Ash-throated Flycatcher (Myiarchus cinerascens) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 27, 2026 08:44 by Debbie Jo Bird
- Santa Margarita Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.4874811&<ll...>,-120.4874811 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S314704894 - Comments: "Notes by KH
*Early, but not that unexpected as it has thus far been a good early spring for this and some other species. This unseen bird was heard briefly from the boat giving several typical burry “ka-brick” calls from here: (35.322242, -120.446106). I am not sure whether or not others were able to hear this bird; a nearby thrasher singing at the same time did not help. No photos or audio recordings were attempted."
Hermit Warbler (Setophaga occidentalis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 27, 2026 08:44 by Debbie Jo Bird
- Santa Margarita Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.4874811&<ll...>,-120.4874811 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S314704894 - Comments: "Early, though not overly surprising given what has thus far been an early spring for this and several other species.
I (KH) first noticed this bird upon hearing an interesting song emanating from a small stand of pines from the boat as we were slowly moving along the lake edge around here: (35.325050, -120.456180). The song was similar to Townsend’s to my ear, but clearly less buzzy with more of a ringing quality, etc.
My view of this bird was brief and not very good, but I was able to see what appeared to be a small grayish warbler with wing bars and what appeared to probably be a yellow face lacking a dark cheek patch (not seen overly well), a definite pale breast lacking any yellow color below the throat, pale flanks lacking any sort of streaking, and white outer tail feathers. This bird did appear to have a good amount of black in the throat (and was singing) indicating a male, but I was unable to see the extent of black in the throat and whether or not there were dark centers or molt limits in the median secondary wing coverts so I am not sure whether it was a SY or ASY bird.
Almost immediately upon locating the bird in the small stand of pines it flew to an adjacent Oak before flying back and out of sight. I believe one or two people may have heard the bird singing but I believe I was the only person to see the bird, unfortunately. No photos were attempted and we did not linger."
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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.
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1)
- Reported Mar 28, 2026 08:25 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/S314173012 - Media: 1 Video, 4 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing female, most likely the one first reported on 8/17/2025 (Brian O'Kelly & Alexander Yan).
Observed preening while standing on the left-side of a floating dock at the oyster farm, with Double-crested Cormorants and Brown Pelicans.
Recognized by the overall shape of the body, unlike a Mallard's, with a shorter bill and a forehead, that was sloping down to the bill in a more straight line.--- When the wings were raised they showed a light-colored patch on the underside."
Black Skimmer (Rynchops niger) (2)
- Reported Mar 28, 2026 13:08 by Nick & Jane
- Morro Bay SP--Natural History Museum, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8437825&<ll...>,-120.8437825 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S314129654 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Seen together on low tide mudflats. Thanks to a birder bachelor party that happened to be in the area. I inquired if they’d seen any skimmers and they had—so they re-set up their scope so I could see. I then ate my lunch and went back and snapped pics. Large, elongated tern-like birds with black backs and wings and heads. Could see the distinct long primaries and thick orange bill bases but not the full bills. Pics. Thanks, bachelor party dudes for the assist!"
Hammond's Flycatcher (Empidonax hammondii) (1)
- Reported Mar 28, 2026 08:50 by Nick & Jane
- Cerro Alto Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.7491446&<ll...>,-120.7491446 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S314130393 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Mostly grey quiet empid—unlike the many pac-slopes vocalizing along trail. Seen in creekside tangles perched on a branch—its wingbars jumped out while scanning for birds. Small dark bill which gave the illusion of a large head. Some olive wash on its grey underside. Double white wingbars. Long pointy primary projections. Was creekside in lower third of walk from lower lot. I wanted to drop a pin but on way back to car the light had changed so much that I couldn’t recall exacly where. Must have been at least fifty yards from lower lot. Photos, though one is a bit out of focus and at an angle, which made me think I photographed two birds. After studying wingbar patterns, determined it was as originally thought, one bird. First of year. Pics"
Hermit Warbler (Setophaga occidentalis) (1)
- Reported Mar 27, 2026 08:44 by The Spotting Twohees
- Santa Margarita Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.4874811&<ll...>,-120.4874811 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S313712360 - Comments: "Early, though not overly surprising given what has thus far been an early spring for this and several other species.
I (KH) first noticed this bird upon hearing an interesting song emanating from a small stand of pines from the boat as we were slowly moving along the lake edge around here: (35.325050, -120.456180). The song was similar to Townsend’s to my ear, but clearly less buzzy with more of a ringing quality, etc.
My view of this bird was brief and not very good, but I was able to see what appeared to be a small grayish warbler with wing bars and what appeared to probably be a yellow face lacking a dark cheek patch (not seen overly well), a definite pale breast lacking any yellow color below the throat, pale flanks lacking any sort of streaking, and white outer tail feathers. This bird did appear to have a good amount of black in the throat (and was singing) indicating a male, but I was unable to see the extent of black in the throat and whether or not there were dark centers or molt limits in the median secondary wing coverts so I am not sure whether it was a SY or ASY bird.
Almost immediately upon locating the bird in the small stand of pines it flew to an adjacent Oak before flying back and out of sight. I believe one or two people may have heard the bird singing but I believe I was the only person to see the bird, unfortunately. No photos were attempted and we did not linger."
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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: 3/28/26 3:28 am From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [slocobirding] [eBird Alert] San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- Western x Clark's Grebe (hybrid) (4 reports)
- American Bittern (1 report)
- Swainson's Hawk (2 reports)
- Ash-throated Flycatcher (5 reports)
- Hermit Warbler (2 reports)
---------------------------------------------
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.
American Bittern (Botaurus lentiginosus) (1)
- Reported Mar 27, 2026 10:00 by Petra Clayton
- Oso Flaco Lake (not for beach/ocean), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6207848&<ll...>,-120.6207848 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S313755499 - Media: 1 Video, 5 Photos
- Comments: "Observed in the reeds at the beginning of the boardwalk. Viewed from the back: Gray-brown crown and nape; darker brown back with buffy stripes; vertical brown and buffy stripes on the neck; neck extended upward with long pointed bill."
Swainson's Hawk (Buteo swainsoni) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 25, 2026 07:10 by Will Knowlton
- 10827–10891 CA-46 E, Paso Robles US-CA (35.6586,-120.4893), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.489259&<ll...>,-120.489259 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S313625903 - Comments: "Returning light morph adult. Observed perching and making short flights to the ground and back to a different perch. Viewed at a distance through a scope. In flight, wings were long, narrow, and pointed. Underwing coverts were white. White throat and dark bib noticeable at a distance.
Two adults were observed nesting in this area during the 2024 breeding season. Only one adult was ever observed in 2025."
Ash-throated Flycatcher (Myiarchus cinerascens) (1)
- Reported Mar 27, 2026 12:29 by John Hiebert
- San Simeon Creek Road, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.0775634&<ll...>,-121.0775634 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S313712329 - Media: 2 Audio
- Comments: "Have heard what I believe was an Ash-throated flycatcher calling at the first bridge crossing over San Simeon Creek just past Red Mountain Road. I heard it faintly the day before in a sea of other bird calls. I went back today and believe I heard it again, attempted to get a recording of the bird doing a call, but faint on recordings. Not sure if it is clear enough to be identified and if so I will remove from list"
Hermit Warbler (Setophaga occidentalis) (1)
- Reported Mar 27, 2026 08:44 by Robbie & Bob Revel
- Santa Margarita Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.4874811&<ll...>,-120.4874811 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S313729797 - Comments: "Early. First heard singing and then briefly seen. Warbler similar to Townsend's but largely lacking cheek patch and less extensive yellow breast. Song like Townsend's but varied and more "airy" etc."
Hermit Warbler (Setophaga occidentalis) (1)
- Reported Mar 27, 2026 08:44 by Debbie Jo Bird
- Santa Margarita Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.4874811&<ll...>,-120.4874811 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S313729156 - Comments: "Early. First heard singing and then briefly seen. Warbler similar to Townsend's but largely lacking cheek patch and less extensive yellow breast. Song like Townsend's but varied and more "airy" etc."
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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: 3/27/26 1:50 am From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [slocobirding] [eBird Alert] San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- King Eider (1 report)
- Black Scoter (1 report)
- Ash-throated Flycatcher (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.
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1)
- Reported Mar 24, 2026 12:40 by Breck Tyler
- 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/S313332561 - Comments: "Continuing female. After scoping for about 20 minutes, we found the bird near the closest oyster farm structures straight out from the north facing beach. It swam left behind the structures, diving often. After a few minutes it disappeared and we couldn't refind it. A large, heavy bodied, tawny brown duck with dark bill that sloped up towards the forehead. Maybe the same individual we saw in Moss Landing last fall."
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.
Black Scoter (Melanitta americana) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 25, 2026 10:00 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/S313104381 - Comments: "20 yards away and afforded good view for 10 min until swam further away from shore into the dense fog. No ability to see anything once past 50 yards out. Distinctive compared to nearby SUSC. Smaller, rounder head and bill with yellow base, not as bulbous knobby as SUSC or even adult BLSC but no white on bill, just some black on the sides and tip. No white on back of head either. body color not black but dark brown."
Long-tailed Duck (Clangula hyemalis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 24, 2026 12:15 by Petra Clayton
- San Simeon Creek Mouth/Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1267052&<ll...>,-121.1267052 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S312884596 - Media: 1 Video, 18 Photos
- Comments: "Female continuing since 12/1/2025 (Reef Comer). Not reported at this location from 1/1/26 to 2/5/26.
Round head; white face and neck; dark crown stripe continuing to nape; dark cheek patch that extends from the nape to the chin; bluish bill with dark nail; short bluish legs, that match the bill color.
Today observed for the first time out of the water. She was standing on shore at the southern creek bank, west of the Highway One bridge, where she was preening for an extended length of time before briefly taking a short flight into the creek. She continued preening there and then returned to shore to resume preening. When she walked a bit with her short legs it seemed awkward. Later she was observed diving in the creek as she was foraging.
Click on the image below for a Flickr video:
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jack-petra-clayton/55169166313/in/dateposted-public/" title="Long-tailed Duck (Clangula hyemalis), San Simeon, CA"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/55169166313_9d7569dbf6_z.jpg" alt="Long-tailed Duck (Clangula hyemalis), San Simeon, CA" /></a>"
Black-necked Stilt (Himantopus mexicanus) (7) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 25, 2026 09:47 by Phillip Stosberg
- Carrizo Plain NM--Soda Lake Boardwalk, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.9035556&<ll...>,-119.9035556 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S313057402 - Comments: "Exact count of this iconic and unmistakable shorebird. Dark backs, very long and skinny legs, and needle-like bill (impossible to misidentify). 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/
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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.
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: 3/23/26 9:04 pm From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [slocobirding] [eBird Alert] San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- King Eider (1 report)
- Merlin (Black) (3 reports)
---------------------------------------------
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.
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 22, 2026 11:10 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/S312357698 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing female - large, all brown sea duck with sloping, all black bill. Initially observed loafing on mud flat north and east of oyster farm. As tide rose and flooded the mud flat, the duck took flight out in the bay and landed about 300 yards south of the oyster farm and began diving."
Merlin (Black) (Falco columbarius suckleyi) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 22, 2026 17:08 by Pair of Wing-Nuts
- The Lakes--Private Property, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.67129&<ll...>,-120.67129 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S312360902 - Media: 12 Photos
- Comments: "This falcon showed dark head and face with no visible malar, contrasting buff/white, faintly streaked throat, faint, light supercilium, very dark back that was nearly the same color as the solid black tail. Breast and and underwing were dark patterned and black upper tail showed narrow white tip and except for several small, faint, whitish spots, lacked any visible barring. Bird observed for 20 minutes hunting from several trees it returned to after each chase."
Merlin (Black) (Falco columbarius suckleyi) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 22, 2026 17:08 by Norman Pillsbury
- The Lakes--Private Property, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.67129&<ll...>,-120.67129 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S312263927 - Media: 6 Photos
- Comments: "This falcon showed dark head and face with no visible malar, contrasting buff/white, faintly streaked throat, faint, light supercilium, very dark back that was nearly the same color as the solid black tail. Breast and and underwing were dark patterned and black upper tail showed narrow white tip and except for several small, faint, whitish spots, lacked any visible barring. Bird observed for 20 minutes hunting from several trees it returned to after each chase. ID’d as Black Merlin by Steve Tillman."
Merlin (Black) (Falco columbarius suckleyi) (1)
- Reported Mar 22, 2026 17:08 by Jeff Miller
- The Lakes--Private Property, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.67129&<ll...>,-120.67129 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S312255056 - Comments: "This falcon showed dark head and face with no visible malar, contrasting buff/white, faintly streaked throat, faint, light supercilium, very dark back that was nearly the same color as the solid black tail. Breast and and underwing were dark patterned and black upper tail showed narrow white tip and except for several small, faint, whitish spots, lacked any visible barring. Bird observed for 20 minutes hunting from several trees it returned to after each chase."
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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: 3/22/26 7:35 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)
- Black-legged Kittiwake (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.
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1)
- Reported Mar 22, 2026 11:38 by Russ Namitz
- 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/S312136740 - Comments: "Continuing female found with birding legends and tomfoolery experts Steve Tillman and Jeff Miller! Photos tba. Bird was first associating with a large flock of roosting DC Cormorants and then flew SW towards a buoy marker. It dove a few times and then started swimming towards the oyster docks."
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.
Long-tailed Duck (Clangula hyemalis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 20, 2026 14:00 by Petra Clayton
- San Simeon Creek Mouth/Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1267052&<ll...>,-121.1267052 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S311204084 - Media: 1 Video, 6 Photos
- Comments: "Female continuing since 12/1/2025 (Reef Comer). Not reported at this location from 1/1/26 to 2/5/26.
Round head; white face and neck; dark crown stripe continuing to nape; dark cheek patch that extends from the nape to the chin; bluish bill with dark nail. --- Today observed from the southern creek bank. It most likely came into the middle of the creek from the cove just east of the Highway One bridge."
Black-throated Gray Warbler (Setophaga nigrescens) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 20, 2026 07:02 by Jeanette Stone
- Cerro Alto Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.7491446&<ll...>,-120.7491446 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S311639363 - Comments: "Jeannette only at the upper creek crossing. Seen with another unidentified warbler. Not acting like a nuthatch. Black and white warbler with yellow spot in front of the eye."
Hermit Warbler (Setophaga occidentalis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 20, 2026 07:02 by Jeanette Stone
- Cerro Alto Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.7491446&<ll...>,-120.7491446 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S311639363 - Comments: "Ann only…at the crest of the trail before it drops down to the meadow/creek crossing area. Was observed with Townsend’s and one unidentified warbler. Male with entirely yellow face, black throat, gray upper, white wingbars , and whitish underside. Seen in the top of the canopy."
Summer Tanager (Piranga rubra) (1)
- Reported Mar 19, 2026 12:25 by Terri Osborn
- 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/S311231784 - Comments: "Overall I spent a couple of hours around campsite #63 where the Summer Tanagers were seen earlier this week. I heard it call a few times, initially with a pik-pik-pik call and then a more melodious call which I have heard previously. Another birder was with me near site #63 and heard the song but neither of us saw the Summer Tanagers. I am unable to post my recordings of the songs but have them if needed."
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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: 3/21/26 8:04 am From: Mitch Siemens via groups.io <msiemens805...> Subject: Re: [slocobirding] Arroyo Grande Palm warbler
> On Mar 21, 2026, at 7:58 AM, Mitch Siemens via groups.io <msiemens805...> wrote:
>
> The Palm warbler that was first observed in my backyard on 12/7 and then sporadically up until 2/15, surprisingly showed up again yesterday to bathe in the backyard water feature.
>
> Mitch Siemens
> Arroyo Grande
>
>
>
>
>
Date: 3/21/26 7:58 am From: Mitch Siemens via groups.io <msiemens805...> Subject: [slocobirding] Arroyo Grande Palm warbler
The Palm warbler that was first observed in my backyard on 12/7 and then sporadically up until 2/15, surprisingly showed up again yesterday to bathe in the backyard water feature.
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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.
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 18, 2026 08:33 by Tom Edell
- Pasadena Drive (35.331, -120.843), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8428043&<ll...>,-120.8428043 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S310399663 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "continuing female on the oyster company dock/float. From distance with scope appeared as a large cinnamon brown duck with a black bill that continued up the forehead forming a short black shield. I could not see the pale line going back and down the face from the eye but it did appear to have a dark line in the same location. It had a "necklace" of pale spots across the breast that I presume were due to feather loss. Distant photos uploaded."
Black-throated Gray Warbler (Setophaga nigrescens) (1)
- Reported Mar 20, 2026 07:02 by Ann Stockert
- Cerro Alto Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.7491446&<ll...>,-120.7491446 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S311104715 - Comments: "Jeannette only at the upper creek crossing. Seen with another unidentified warbler. Not acting like a nuthatch. Black and white warbler with yellow spot in front of the eye."
Hermit Warbler (Setophaga occidentalis) (1)
- Reported Mar 20, 2026 07:02 by Ann Stockert
- Cerro Alto Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.7491446&<ll...>,-120.7491446 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S311104715 - Comments: "Ann only…at the crest of the trail before it drops down to the meadow/creek crossing area. Was observed with Townsend’s and one unidentified warbler. Male with entirely yellow face, black throat, gray upper, white wingbars , and whitish underside. Seen in the top of the canopy."
Black-headed Grosbeak (Pheucticus melanocephalus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 19, 2026 07:30 by Kevin Zimmer
- KJZ yard, Garcia Rd, Atascadero, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.7064838&<ll...>,-120.7064838 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S310841978 - Comments: "First of the year in our yard. One of the first birds I heard singing this morning before I was even out of bed. A couple of hours later, I heard it singing again, went outside, and found a male sitting high in one of the oaks in the front yard, singing away. I'll post photos tomorrow."
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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.
Blue-winged x Cinnamon Teal (hybrid) (Spatula discors x cyanoptera) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 18, 2026 09:15 by Tom Edell
- Sweet Springs Nature Preserve, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8422726&<ll...>,-120.8422726 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S310399648 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Male, probable adult given a bird looking like this one has been present in winter since Dec 2022 and possibly since Feb 2018"
Big, chocolate brown lump on the southernmost oyster platform, occasionally lifting its head as it preened, providing reassuring evidence I wasn't taking pictures of a pile of ropes. Super far away and I broke my lens yesterday so unfortunately all my photos are blurry, but the general impression of a duck instead of any other brown seabird (re: pelican) is there. In terms of narrowing it down from other female ducks; it seemed to be more uniformly brown and darker brown than other ducks. Additionally, the chest/neck area was lighter than the rest of the body, whereas I'd expect a pintail to show a marked contrast between lighter head and darker body, even at this great distance. If it was a fem scaup, at some point the white of the face would've been visible while she preened.
Given that this bird seems to like the platform, I feel good about the idea that she would be there over another bird, but if anyone has seen other brown ducks on the platform, I guess it's possible I got double unlucky."
Arctic Loon (Gavia arctica) (1)
- Reported Mar 18, 2026 12:06 by Alexander Yan
- North Point Natural Area--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8717568&<ll...>,-120.8717568 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S310403674 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Just to get the word out, welcome any criticism and education. If real, continuing from CBC??? Phone scope (x45) pics attached. Seen with other loons offshore. Steep forehead, slightly smaller than COLO, and strong white flanks visible while swimming. Posture was different from RTLOs nearby, didn’t do the stereotypical Arctic loon head posture but it mostly just swam lazily with others. In scope I can see a grey nape, white scaling on the back, and do not recall any neck strap."
Swainson's Hawk (Buteo swainsoni) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 18, 2026 15:01 by Michael Mulroy
- CA-46, Paso Robles US-CA 35.66092, -120.45121, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.451213&<ll...>,-120.451213 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S310475044 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Returning adult to nest tree. Grayish-brown head and bib, whitish belly, primaries reached tail tip, tail with narrow bands and not red. Viewed with scope. Distant photo included."
Swainson's Hawk (Buteo swainsoni) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 18, 2026 15:01 by Will Knowlton
- CA-46, Paso Robles US-CA 35.66092, -120.45121, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.451213&<ll...>,-120.451213 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S310474591 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Returning adult to nest tree. Grayish-brown head and bib, whitish belly, primaries reached tail tip, tail with narrow bands and not red. Viewed with scope. Distant photo included."
Merlin (Prairie) (Falco columbarius richardsonii) (1)
- Reported Mar 16, 2026 08:26 by Lou McGonagill
- Carrizo Plain NM (use specific hotspots when available), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.810539&<ll...>,-119.810539 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S310414500 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Fem/imm at start of 7 Mile Rd. Slightly on the darker side for prairie, but field marks otherwise consistent."
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.
Laysan Albatross (Phoebastria immutabilis) (1)
- Reported Mar 17, 2026 13:00 by Bob Meads
- Offshore--SW Pt. Piedras Blancas (50-75 nmi; SLO Co.), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-122.0263524&<ll...>,-122.0263524 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S310369210 - Comments: "close to ship. Easy ID. Medium size Albatross, brown wings and back, white streak on top of tail. seen repeatedly that day along CA coast. Others may have photos"
Summer Tanager (Piranga rubra) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 17, 2026 11:47 by Nick & Jane
- 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/S310135266 - Media: 7 Photos
- Comments: "I think this is a new one? I recall two being seen and a continuing male was seen yesterday. Wasn’t the other a female? This was an immature male in the area where the adult male was seen behind campsite #63, which is close to the amphitheater road and entrance to the second loop. This mustardy bird had red mottling, especially on its face, upper chest, and mid chest. It also had an orange-red wash above its undertail coverts, and a large bill. It was first seen in a euc behind the campsite and then in a nearby pine. It had a squishy caterpillar in its bill and slowly ate it. Photos."
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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: 3/18/26 10:48 am From: njmann90 via groups.io <njmann50...> Subject: [slocobirding] Hooded Oriole
My FOS Hooded Oriole today, both a male and a female. Hoodeds first seen in
yard 4/1/25, 4/2/24, 4/3/23 & 3/31/21...
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
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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.
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1)
- Reported Mar 16, 2026 13:56 by Sarah Spotten
- 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/S309924957 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing female, seen at low tide standing on mud flats about 50 meters away from southernmost oyster farm. Chunky sea duck shape with dark sloping bill. Buffy light brown color overall with some patterning barely visible through the heat shimmer. Really terrible digiscope photos and video; best I could get with my tech at a distance."
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: 3/16/26 9:08 am From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [slocobirding] [eBird Alert] San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- Yellow-crowned Night Heron (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 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.
Yellow-crowned Night Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 15, 2026 14:41 by John Hiebert
- 289 Main Street, Morro Bay, California, US (35.358, -120.85) Boat Ramp, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8500993&<ll...>,-120.8500993 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S309620518 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "On-going of what appeared to be the juv YCNH, sleeping in row of trees just past the public access ramp at tidelands park, I have some poor photos with my phone. Observed through binocs a dark, heavier black bill with yellow feathers at the base of jaw when head came up for a moment but otherwise was sleeping so no ability for longer term inspection. FYI - I added updated photos with my regular camera, still hard to get photos."
***********
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/
Ginger Langdon-Lassagne and I are excited to be the CBA volunteer Regional Coordinators for San Luis Obispo County! I think the Town Hall will answer a lot of your questions, but you can email Ginger and me with any comments or questions you have about the Atlas, and we will get answers for you.
Date: 3/15/26 7:29 am From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [slocobirding] [eBird Alert] San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- Blue-winged x Cinnamon Teal (hybrid) (1 report)
- King Eider (3 reports)
- Yellow-crowned Night Heron (2 reports)
- California Condor (1 report)
- Chipping Sparrow (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 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.
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 14, 2026 08:29 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/S309267256 - Comments: "Continuing female on distant oyster farm platform. Could see the overall size and shape as a large duck, plumper than a mallard but smaller than a cormorant. Could also see its warm brown tones and small black bill while it preened. Very distant photos."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 14, 2026 09:39 by Nick & Jane
- Morro Bay SP--Natural History Museum, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8437825&<ll...>,-120.8437825 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S309267515 - Comments: "Continuing female on distant oyster farm platform. Could see the overall size and shape as a large duck, plumper than a mallard but smaller than a cormorant. Could also see its warm brown tones and small black bill while it preened. Very distant photos."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1)
- Reported Mar 14, 2026 10:48 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/S309293064 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing large, stocky, almost all-brown sea duck with long sloping black bill. Observed loafing and preening on it's favorite oyster farm equipment barge near rigging closest to shore-line point."
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/
You are so surprisingly lucky to have these great birds in your yard.
Having been there myself I know it’s not huge but what a mecca for so many
migrants!!!
Claudia Freitas
On Sat, Mar 14, 2026 at 5:39 PM Kaaren Perry via groups.io <surfbird1=
<att.net...> wrote:
> Harris’s Sparrow Update
>
>
> Our SLO county little winter visitor has apparently moved on, presumably
> headed to it’s summer breeding grounds in northern Canada. Birds of North
> America regarding Harris’s Sparrow- “Spring movements northward begin late
> February and early March,”
>
>
> To review, the little sparrow was first photographed and reported in our
> yard in Morro Bay on December 12, 2025. It was last seen and photographed
> on March 10, 2026. During those 12 weeks the bird arrived in our yard
> daily with a small mixed flock, except for a short time in January when I
> had to stop tossing seed for a few days due to rodent problems. Many local
> and not so local birders were able to enjoy seeing this rare little sparrow
> over the 3 months winter stay.
>
>
> I will miss seeing this handsome sparrow and will be hoping/watching next
> year just in case it returns.
>
>
> In the mean time as it heads north… “May the wind be at your back!” -
> Irish blessing in honor of St Patricks Day”☘️
>
>
> I have posted a photo on flickr taken on March 10, the last day it was
> seen it in our yard. http://www.flickr.com/photos/kaarenp/ >
>
>
> Kaaren Perry
>
> Morro Bay
>
>
>
>
>
>
Date: 3/14/26 5:39 pm From: Kaaren Perry via groups.io <surfbird1...> Subject: [slocobirding] Harris's Sparrow Update
Harris’s Sparrow Update
Our SLO county little winter visitor has apparently moved on, presumably headed to it’s summer breeding grounds in northern Canada. Birds of North America regarding Harris’s Sparrow- “Spring movements northward begin late February and early March,”
To review, the little sparrow was first photographed and reported in our yard in Morro Bay on December 12, 2025. It was last seen and photographed on March 10, 2026. During those 12 weeks the bird arrived in our yard daily with a small mixed flock, except for a short time in January when I had to stop tossing seed for a few days due to rodent problems. Many local and not so local birders were able to enjoy seeing this rare little sparrow over the 3 months winter stay.
I will miss seeing this handsome sparrow and will be hoping/watching next year just in case it returns.
In the mean time as it heads north… “May the wind be at your back!” - Irish blessing in honor of St Patricks Day”☘️
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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.
Rough-legged Hawk (Buteo lagopus) (1)
- Reported Mar 13, 2026 10:00 by elliot schoenig
- Bitterwater Valley Rd, Santa Margarita US-CA (35.4945,-120.0683), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.068289&<ll...>,-120.068289 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S308892465 - Comments: "Late, but looks like one/the same bird was here a week ago. Light morph with dark belly and wrist patches contrasting against an otherwise very pale bird. White tail with black band at the end"
Nashville Warbler (Leiothlypis ruficapilla) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 12, 2026 16:30 by Reef Comer
- 2599 Koa Ave, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8527658&<ll...>,-120.8527658 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S308872947 - Comments: "Probably one of the two overwintering individuals. Leiothlypis warbler with light gray head, bold white eyering, bright yellow underside and throat, and greenish back and wings. Rufous top of head occasionally visible."
***********
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.
Yellow-crowned Night Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) (1)
- Reported Mar 12, 2026 14:32 by Petra Clayton
- Tidelands Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8514118&<ll...>,-120.8514118 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S308663552 - Media: 1 Video, 3 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing juvenile. Today a single one was resting on a small Monterey Cypress by the last boat ramp.
We have been observing this species since early September. We observed one juvenile at this location in the morning of 9/6/25 and again on 9/7/25, 9/8/25, 9/12/25 and 9/18/25. We observed three juveniles on 9/25/25 and 9/26/25. On 10/2/25 we observed two juveniles. On 10/7/25 and 10/8/25 we observed a single juvenile here. On 10/13/25 and 10/14/25 we again observed two individuals. On 10/23/25 we saw just a single one. On 10/24/25 and 10/29/25 we saw two. After that date we only saw a single one: 11/8/25, 11/12/25, 11/14/25, 11/16/25, 11/26/25, 12/11/25, 12/16/25, 12/21/25, 12/26/25, 1/1/26, 1/8/26, 1/22/26 , 1/31/26, 2/9/26 and 2/23/26.
The juvenile had not been reported at this location between 2/9/26 and 2/22/26, most likely due to inclement weather conditions.
One juvenile was first present here on 9/4/25 and could have been the same individual reported on 9/3/25 at the Morro Bay SP Marina.
Today's juvenile had a dark, stout bill with yellow feathers at the base of the lower mandible; small white triangular spots on the covert feathers."
Yellow-crowned Night Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Mar 11, 2026 18:15 by Tom Edell
- Tidelands Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8514118&<ll...>,-120.8514118 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S308501603 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing immature bird with mostly brownish-gray plumage, small white marks on wings, a yellowish chin, and a mostly dark bill that is yellow at the base of the lower mandible. It was first seen in one of the cypress adjacent to the boat ramp and then went down to the revetment."
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: 3/12/26 2:42 am From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [slocobirding] [eBird Alert] San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- Long-tailed Duck (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.
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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