Date: 4/14/26 5:28 am From: Eve Meier via groups.io <eve.m.meier...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Nashville Warblers at Smith Creek
Hi Everyone!
Lots of *Nashville Warblers *are being spotted at Smith Creek. Melissa, Melanie and I had at least 10. Sometimes we'd have 2 or 3 in one view. From the pullout (37.32333573779189, -121.66917241178218), take the Foothill Trail. The warblers were seen about here: 37.321803, -121.669875.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 4/13/26 6:54 pm From: Patricia Brennan via groups.io <pat2brennan...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] Warbler fallout now
More warblers:. Black-throated Gray Warblers heard and seen while walking around the vernal pond
at Picchetti. Nearby we heard and saw Wilson's Warbler. We heard several Orange-crowned Warblers. Lots of singing going on.
The vernal pond is about half full after the rains of the last few days.
-Dave Zittin
Cupertino
On Mon, Apr 13, 2026 at 7:11 AM Carter Gasiorowski via groups.io <http://groups.io/> <carter.gasiorowski...> <mailto:<gmail.com...>> wrote:
> Many warblers moving through the trees at SCU now. Singing Black-throated Gray Warbler, many Orange-crowned Warbers, Common Yellowthroat, etc. Check your local patch today!
>
>
>
>
>
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 4/13/26 5:04 pm From: David Zittin via groups.io <dzittin...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] Warbler fallout now
More warblers:. Black-throated Gray Warblers heard and seen while walking
around the vernal pond
at Picchetti. Nearby we heard and saw Wilson's Warbler. We heard several
Orange-crowned Warblers. Lots of singing going on.
The vernal pond is about half full after the rains of the last few days.
-Dave Zittin
Cupertino
On Mon, Apr 13, 2026 at 7:11 AM Carter Gasiorowski via groups.io
<carter.gasiorowski...> wrote:
> Many warblers moving through the trees at SCU now. Singing Black-throated
> Gray Warbler, many Orange-crowned Warbers, Common Yellowthroat, etc. Check
> your local patch today!
>
>
>
>
>
>
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 4/13/26 7:11 am From: Carter Gasiorowski via groups.io <carter.gasiorowski...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Warbler fallout now
Many warblers moving through the trees at SCU now. Singing Black-throated Gray Warbler, many Orange-crowned Warbers, Common Yellowthroat, etc. Check your local patch today!
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 4/11/26 3:02 pm From: Lisa Myers via groups.io <lisa...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Birding Vasona for the SCVBA Birdathon
Hi all -
My team "Los Gatos Birdwatcher" spent the morning at Vasona birding for
the SCVBA spring Birdathon. My team of 10 were real troopers as we
birded in the rain all morning. We started on the dam side hoping for
the Red-throated Loon that had been seen for a few days, but despite our
efforts and the efforts of many more, the bird has not been re-found as
of this writing. However, we had a great study in swallow ID as *VIOLET
GREEN, NORTHERN ROUGH-WINGED, TREE, CLIFF* and *BARN* were all there in
the hundreds, with an occasional *VAUX'S SWIFT* flew through the mix.
With a scope we could observe the nesting *GREAT-BLUE HERONS,
BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT HERONS* and a *SNOWY EGRET* out on the island. Later
we also had great views of *GREEN HERONS.
*
Two *BALD EAGLES* flew overhead early in the morning and never
re-appeared. *RED-TAILED*, *COOPER'S* and *RED-SHOULDERED* were also found.
A *GREAT-TAILED GRACKLE* landed close allowing for a great conversation
in range expansion.
All in all it was a tough day trying to find species. As we moved to the
other side of the park and walked along the creek we had to work hard
for songbirds. *YELLOW-RUMPED WARBLERS, WESTERN BLUEBIRDS, SONG
SPARROWS, OAK TITMICE, CHESTNUT-BACKED CHICKADEES* were a welcome sight.
We were able to find two *GREAT-HORNED OWL* chicks safely sleeping away
in the rain up in the Eucalyptus above the boat house.
We also ran into the Santa Clara Valley Young Birder's Club (SCV-YBC)
out on their field trip. A great time exchanging sightings!
It was a cold and wet morning. We ended with 56 species.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 4/11/26 12:08 pm From: Bob Reiling via groups.io <rreiling2...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Dead baby Owl
All,
Unfortunately, this morning a dead, very small, wet, fuzzy, white, baby Owl was found in the grass below our,12 to 13 foot high, mast mounted nest box. I did get a video early this morning but no Owl image. My Game Camera does not record the Owl if it's flying (small size) and is usually triggered when the Owl calls or has less motion at the nest. I assume, with all that it implies, that the baby Owl was born in the nest but last year I had a lot calling and Owl images.
Take care,
Bob Reiling
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 4/11/26 11:44 am From: Brooke Miller via groups.io <brooke.bam...> Subject: [southbaybirds] March 2026 Cumulative Bird Report for Santa Clara County
Hi South Bay Birders:
In March we added 15 new countable birds, bringing the total to 232 at the
end of the month. The average for March is 13 new birds, with an average
of 224 at the end of the month. Thank you to everyone who birded, and took
the time to report birds either on SBB, eBird, or send emails directly to
me.
Here are the birds that were found in March:
1. Black-headed Grosbeak (1), 2026-03-02, found by Edward Rooks and Chazz
Hesselein at Calero County Park—Casa Loma Rd entrance
2. Hooded Oriole (2), 2026-03-08, seen by Mike Danzenbaker in his yard in
Mountain View
3. Western Warbling Vireo (2), 2026-03-09, found by Chris Overington at
Joseph D Grant County Park
4. Western Flycatcher (1), 2026-03-11, found by Janna Pauser along the
Calero Creek Trail
5. Bullock’s Oriole (1), 2026-03-12, found by Janna Pauser along Fortini Rd
6. Wilson’s Warbler (1), 2026-03-13, found by Connor Christensen from his
balcony in San Jose
7. Western Kingbird (2), 2026-03-13, found by Karen Rush and Linda Pors at
Sunnyvale Baylands Park—NE Pond
8. Vermilion Flycatcher (6), 2026-03-14, found by multiple observers at
Joseph D Grant County Park
9. Caspian Tern (2), 2026-03-14, seen by multiple observers at Palo Alto
Baylands
10. Vaux’s Swift (3), 2026-03-14, seen by Josiah Parris flying over the
pond at Almaden Expressway and Highway 85
11. Cassin’s Vireo (2), 2026-03-18, heard by John Scharpen along Sanborn Rd
12. Black-throated Gray Warbler (3), 2026-03-22, found by Naomi Goodman at
Mt Umunhum
13. Lazuli Bunting (2), 2026-03-24, found by Mike Mammoser and Mike Rogers,
along San Antonio Valley Rd at road marker 6
14. Ash-throated Flycatcher (2), 2026-03-26, found by Brooke Miller at
Joseph D Grant County Park
15. Red-throated Loon (4), 2026-03-29, found by Ryan G in Salt Pond A2W
As a reminder, here is what each rarity code means:
**Rarity Codes:
1 = common, always seen in habitat in season.
2 = fairly common, usually in habitat in season, but missed sometimes.
3 = uncommon, always around, but sometimes you can't find.
4 = rare, occurs yearly in the county, but not always in same places.
5 = very rare, does not occur every year.
6 = casual or vagrant, generally fewer than 10 records.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 4/10/26 1:34 pm From: Bob Reiling via groups.io <rreiling2...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Unusual Owl Activity
All,
During my recent observation period the Owls head was always high, it never drank from the bird bath it only soaked its feathers.
A bit of a background, On 4/19/25 the Owls stopped using the nest the day after I took photos of the young bird (photo included). Weeks before my latest photo (3/30/26), that shows the Owl using the nest, it was heard almost continuously calling in our back yard, it was last heard a couple days later.
My assumption is that the bird bath wetting of the feathers is a normal function as it appeared healthy.
Take care,
Bob Reiling
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 4/9/26 9:42 pm From: janna pauser via groups.io <jannapauser...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Santa Teresa County Park Say's Phoebe's
I spent an hour in Santa Teresa County Park at 1 pm today. A Say's
Phoebe pair perched on the fence behind the bathrooms made short trips
into a eucalyptus tree. There I found two fledglings being fed by the
adults and attached some photo's.
Other birds of interest here were No. House Wren, Bullock Oriole pair,
and Ash throated Flycatcher.
Two White-throated Sparrows are singing in our backyard and the Pygmy
Nuthatches are coming to the suet feeder daily.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 4/9/26 5:33 pm From: Bob Reiling via groups.io <rreiling2...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Unusual Owl activity
All,
At little after 8 last night (4/8/26) my wife was in our Spa when a Western Screech-Owl landed in our bird bath about 20 feet away from her and spent some time soaking its feathers in the water. I then came out and saw the Owl fly a bit South, A short time later it returned to the bird bath and once again soaked its feathers and flew a bit south. The Owl was then seen to fly to a tree just west of the Spa where it perched for a few minutes and flew back to the South. I got good bino views during a third trip to the bird bath (note we have lights on in our front and back yards until 10 PM). There are several reasons why birds might need to soak their feathers but my assumption is that there are young involved as it was not hot out and they might need the moisture or the Owl had some sort of infestation, I'm interested what others might think of this activity or if they have ever seen an Owl doing it.
Take care,
Bob Reiling
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 4/9/26 10:53 am From: Amanda Newlove via groups.io <amandanewlove...> Subject: [southbaybirds] 3 bald eagles Vasona 1 possible part leucistic
Thank you to the gentleman who pointed out the Bald Eagles location to me just now. And while we were looking a 3rd swooped in... Looks like the partial leucistic one?? Back of camera photos attached.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 4/8/26 7:10 pm From: Connor Christensen via groups.io <connor.r.christensen...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Black-chinned Hummingbird at Los Gatos Creek Trail - Meridian Ave.
I had visited the Los Gatos Creek trail a few times over the last week, looking for Black-chinned Hummingbirds without success. Today, Garrett Lau found a male along the creek, and I found the bird later in the exact same spot. It likes to perch in a bare 45-degree angle tree in the middle of the creek just west of the bridge at approximately 37.300704,-121.921607. Garrett was able to get some good pictures that he attached to his checklist https://ebird.org/checklist/S318912926.
I had been looking for Black-chinned Hummingbirds in anticipation of my upcoming Bird-a-thon team. The Hummy Pot will be staking out the Magic Tree at Ed Levin County Park, Spring Valley area, looking for migrating Rufous, Allen's, and hopefully Calliope hummingbirds. After that, we will head to the Los Gatos Creek trail to look for Black-chinned Hummingbirds. My hope is to get as many county hummingbird species as we can. If you are interested, join The Hummy Pot team on Sunday, April 19th, by signing up here. https://ticketbud.com/events/079990b4-0860-11f1-a65a-42010a717005
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 4/6/26 5:16 pm From: Carter Gasiorowski via groups.io <carter.gasiorowski...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Vasona Last Weekend
Today, my dad and I arrived at Vasona Lake County Park around 6:35 am to see what was around. As soon as we got out of the car, we were greeted by a chorus of singing AMERICAN ROBINS, HOUSE FINCHES, and YELLOW-RUMPED WARBLERS. Heading down Pepper Tree Lane into the park, several ACORN WOODPECKERS were hawking insects overhead while WHITE-BREASTED NUTHATCHES and BROWN CREEPERS sang from hidden tree trunks. Heading along the creek, I caught a glimpse of a large bird flying behind the trees. I initially thought it was a Canada Goose, but as it came into the open, the bird's wing beats were far too purposeful for a goose. I snapped my binoculars to eye level, and was delighted to see it was an adult BALD EAGLE! The adult's head appeared to glow orange against the sunrise as it powerfully rose through the air, eventually perching atop the tallest tree on the west side of the lake. Now that I was looking in that direction, I noticed another, immature Bald Eagle perched nearby. Amazingly, both eagles remained in the exact same location for the next three hours of our visit.
A few minutes later we ran into Chris Henry and his dad Brian, who we birded with for the remainder of our visit. Yellow-rumped Warblers filled every tree we passed; I estimate we saw at least 65 during our visit, many of which were singing. Chris and I homed in on the 'Weent!" calls of a HOODED ORIOLE above, which flew off with a fiery flash of orange.
Behind the ranger residence, I noticed a cloud ANNA'S HUMMINGBIRDS feeding around a small flowering eucalyptus, which I decided to look through since Chris and I had just been talking about the Black-chinned Hummingbird he had found nearby last year. After giving it a good look, I started to walk away, then stopped suddenly as the metallic "zzzeeeeeeew!" of a Selasphorus hummingbird's wings zipped over my head. I ran back to the white-flowered eucalyptus, and was ecstatic to see a RUFOUS HUMMINGBIRD! The male Rufous declared a one-man war on the local Anna's Hummingbirds, chasing away three of them at once before hovering in place just long enough for Chris to get a look and for me to grab a photo. I am so excited to have seen this absolute gem of a bird, as I haven't had one in a few years since I've been busy with school. It was also Vasona bird #140 for me!
Continuing along the creek, Chris found a singing TOWNSEND'S WARBLER, our first warbler other than YRWA for the day. We checked the Yellow-Bellied Sapsucker spot, but found its wells unattended and dripping with uneaten sap. The sapsucker must have begun its spring migration, hopefully finding its way back to its normal range.
Near the railroad tracks, there was a flock of HOUSE FINCHES foraging in the grass. As I looked elsewhere, Chris took a closer look, and called out "Lark Sparrow!" I looked over and with some difficulty spotted the Lark Sparrow in the shadow of the railroad- a good bird for Vasona and not an easy species to find as a migrant!
Heading along the east side of the creek, Chris picked out an ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLER in the canopy and managed to get a SORA to enthusiastically respond to playback. The east side of the lake had many birds engaged in breeding activity, such as a Hooded Oriole carrying a strand of fan palm for its nest, a pair of SONG SPARROWS feeding two young, and a pair of DARK-EYED JUNCOS carrying fat caterpillars to an unseen nest. A male GREAT-TAILED GRACKLE sang from the island where a female had been present earlier; maybe they will breed and continue this species' recent range expansion. Breeding records such as these provide important scientific data about our local birds, so I highly encourage all birders to join the California Bird Atlas Project- which is conveniently tied into eBird! Link here: https://www.californiabirdatlas.org/
It was a great day of birding with good people, and I broke my personal single-checklist record for Vasona with 64 species!
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 4/6/26 2:45 pm From: Brooke Miller via groups.io <brooke.bam...> Subject: [southbaybirds] [CALBIRDS] California Bird Atlas Newsletter + April 16 Town Hall
Hi South Bay Birders!
Below is a link to the latest California Bird Atlas Dispatch. I collected
a few statistics for Santa Clara County through the end of March and the
first few days of April:
231 atlasers are participating in Santa Clara County
1,889 checklists have been submitted
84 blocks (out of 134) have been covered for the Atlas
67 species have confirmed breeding codes
If you haven't joined the Atlas your data is not included in these
numbers. I've noticed some nice photos of bird breeding behavior in eBird
that are in checklists that are not in the California Bird Atlas. Please
consider joining. You can add prior checklists to the Atlas
after-the-fact, however, each checklist will need to be added
individually. The link is below to join the Atlas.
If you have any comments or questions please let one of us know.
Thanks,
Brooke Miller
Pete Dunten
Santa Clara County Regional Coordinators
California Bird Atlas
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Van Pierszalowski via groups.io <van...>
>
Date: Mon, Apr 6, 2026 at 9:14 AM
Subject: [CALBIRDS] California Bird Atlas Newsletter + April 16 Town Hall
To: <CALBIRDS...>
Birders,
Thank you 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 incredible photos.
We continue to be blown away by the level of engagement statewide. As of
today, 66,642 Atlas checklists have been submitted across 5,131 blocks,
spanning all 58 counties. 3,196 atlasers have contributed to the project,
and we’re still in the first spring of a five-year Atlas period!
California Bird Atlas is an independent 501(c)(3), and donations can be
made *here <https://donorbox.org/california-bird-atlas>*. Your support
helps us grow the team, expand coverage, and continue building this
incredible momentum statewide. We are deeply grateful :)
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 4/4/26 1:36 pm From: m_m_rogers via groups.io <m.m.rogers...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Mountain View salt ponds
All,
Today 4/4/26, Richard Jeffers, Mike Mammoser, and I surveyed the Mountain View salt ponds for Snowy Plovers. Water levels in most ponds were pretty high, but we saw three Snowies in Crittenden Marsh (they appeared to be the same three I saw and digiscoped there on Tuesday). Also there were two adult male EURASIAN WIGEON (together). Five GREAT-TAILED GRACKLES flying towards Shoreline Park was somewhat of a surprise and a SAY'S PHOEBE at the buildings at the southwest corner of the marsh is likely attempting to breed. A single adult BROWN PELICAN was across Stevens Creek over Pond A2W.
Heading east on the Bay Trail, from the ninety-degree bend in the trail, we were able to scope an OSPREY building a nest on a tower in the distance over Guadalupe Slough (they have bred there in past years). Nine BLACK SKIMMERS were at the southern end of Pond AB1. Another two singing males GREAT-TAILED GRACKLES were near the southeast corner of Pond A3W.
We headed out to the Stevens Creek delta as the tide came in and thousands of shorebirds were present, including hundreds of BLACK-BELLIED PLOVERS, WILLETS, and DUNLINS, many in full alternate plumage. We searched unsuccessfully for any knots, but at 12:15pm, I picked out a RUDDY TURNSTONE and we were able to enjoy that bird bathing and preening for five minutes until it disappeared when we weren't looking.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 4/3/26 1:01 pm From: Brooke Miller via groups.io <brooke.bam...> Subject: [southbaybirds] White-faced ibis
White faced ibis on north side of entrance road to Don Edward’s Alviso. Across the largest expanse of water way far out close to levee behind it. About 2/3 of the way up the road from railroad tracks. Reported earlier by Richard Jeffers and Mike Mammoser
And Roger’s
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 4/1/26 6:09 am From: Eve Meier via groups.io <eve.m.meier...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Backyard Birding: Nuttall's Woodpecker behavior
Hi Everyone!
Yesterday while watching the birds in my backyard, I noticed that a *Nuttall's Woodpecker *was drinking from my hummingbird feeder. I had never seen this behavior before so thought I would share.
And, for all you backyard birders who would like to participate in the SCVBA Birdathon <https://scvbirdalliance.org/birdathon> (which supports SCVBA education programs), I am hosting the team "Backyard Birds and Coffee <https://scvbirdalliance.org/event-calendar/birdathon-backyard-birds-and-coffee>". You can bird your own backyard, your neighborhood or local park in the morning then the team will meet for coffee at 1:00 that afternoon to socialize . I need as many backyard birders as I can get!
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 4/1/26 5:30 am From: Group Notification <noreply...> Subject: [southbaybirds] South Bay Birds Monthly Reminder #guidelines-notice
Thank you for being a member of South Bay Birds [SBB]. This is our monthly reminder sent to the list with information about the group.
South Bay Birds [SBB] is a list intended for reporting the interesting birds you find in Santa Clara county, in order to help your fellow birders see them as well. We encourage everyone to share where they bird and what they see. Please include the general location (e.g., an eBird hotspot) and, if appropriate, the bird(s) of interest in the subject line, with any additional detail needed in the message body. If you use eBird, we encourage you to include a link to the eBird trip report that you filed.
This list is maintained by the Santa Clara Valley Bird Alliance ( scvbirdalliance.org) ( https://scvbirdalliance.org ). Their volunteers and funding keep the list running so please consider joining or donating to them. SBB's Lead Admin is Jim Dehnert. Chuq Von Rospach, Brooke Miller, Matthew Dodder and Barry Langdon-Lassagne assist Jim. You can contact the administration team with your questions and concerns at southbaybirds+<owner...>
The home site for this list is https://scvbirdalliance.org/siliconvalleybirding and you can find out more about us there. To start sending messages to members of this group, send email to <southbaybirds...>
The birds we watch should be our primary concern. As birders we need to be sensitive to their needs and not do things that put the birds or their habitat at risk.
We believe all birders should act as ethical birders. Your personal year list or that special photograph could put the bird at risk or cause its nest to fail. Because we expect all birders to act ethically around the birds that bring them joy, we expect that of the birders who are on our list as well. We have written up some ideas of what it means to be an ethical birder, and list links to other resources on ethical birding as well. Please read them and act to put the bird’s needs ahead of your own. If we find out that members of the list are putting birds or their habitat at risk, those members may lose access to the mailing list and its resources.
We also believe that members of the list should treat each other properly. If a list member is found to be attacking or harassing other list members, or engaging in activities that violate the ethical birding code it may affect their future ability to contribute to or subscribe to our lists.
*Acceptable Content*
The primary content for SBB is reports of interesting birds you saw and where you saw them ( https://groups.io/g/southbaybirds/message/24065 ). The objective ( https://groups.io/g/southbaybirds/message/25078 ) is to help other birders interested in the birds you saw to find them themselves. Please include the general location (e.g., an eBird hotspot) and, if appropriate, the bird(s) of interest in the subject line, with any additional detail needed in the message body. Please report only Santa Clara County locations -- other counties have their own mailing lists for trip reports.
Occasionally the administrator will post an Advocacy digest -- no more than once a week, and more typically much less often. This digest contains topics that are not typically posted to the list but we feel are of interest to the readers of SBB and are important enough to warrant posting to the wider audience. These messages will be tagged with the word "Advocacy" in the subject so members who aren't interested can delete or filter them if they choose. Topics posted as Advocacy messages typically include updates on important Advocacy activities by Santa Clara Valley Bird Alliance (SCVBA) and SCVBA volunteer activities.
*Unacceptable Content*
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
We discourage general discussion and questions on South Bay Birds, for that we've created a Facebook group (see below). If you wish to propose a general-purpose announcement for an Advocacy digest post, please send the proposed text to the administrator (below).
Please do not post notices of upcoming events to SBB. There is a sister list, South Bay Birds (Events) [SBB-Events], that should be used for that purpose. If you are interested in knowing what events are being offered by SCVBA and other county bird-oriented organizations, we encourage you to subscribe to this list (see below).
Please do not post carpooling requests for events to SBB. We request that they go to the Facebook discussion group.
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If you ever need to unsubscribe from this list, an unsubscribe link is at the bottom of every message, or you can go to https://groups.io/g/southbaybirds/. That's also where you can view the list archives, set up a vacation hold, change your email address, or modify your subscription in any way.
South Bay Birds and Birdwatching in Silicon Valley are affiliated with the Santa Clara Valley Bird Alliance ( scvbirdalliance.org ( https://scvbirdalliance.org ) ), which offers classes and outings around the county, so if you're interested in learning more about birding in the county or joining other birders in going out birding, they can help you find an outing that matches your interests.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 3/30/26 8:44 am From: Chris Overington via groups.io <chris.overington...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Red-throated Loon
RTLO continues (early) this morning on Pond A2W but is now out towards the
center of the Pond - currently visible with a scope from the second bridge
on the new “Song Sparrow Spur Trail” …
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 3/28/26 6:59 am From: Melissa Johnson via groups.io <mitzimelissa...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Dilute Leucistic Bald Eagle at Coyote Lake (3/25)
Hello SBBers, Maybe of interest to the group: While camping this week at Coyote Lake, I observed what I believe to be a dilute leucistic bald eagle. I saw it only once, near the tent campsite and managed only a few poor photos checklist/S313769629 <https://ebird.org/checklist/S313769629> as it flew to the far side of the lake. Adult with an all white head, all yellow beak, and mottled pale tan coloring (like a white latte).
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 3/26/26 3:19 pm From: David Zittin via groups.io <dzittin...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Upper Stevens Canyon
Hi Birders,
We walked from the Stevens Canyon, Redwood Gulch intesection up stream on Stevens Creek for one mile. Discounting many Steller's Jays, there were not a lot of birds. We did encounter three notable early migrants: 1 male Black-headed Grosbeak, 4 Western Warbling Vireos and 3 Western Flycatchers.
These three species were singing or calling. We heard-only the Western Flycatcher, we saw one of the Western Warbling Vireos, The Black-headed Grosbeak was heard and seen at Stevens Creek Bridge no. 37C0604 where we have often encountered this species in previous years.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 3/26/26 8:39 am From: Linda Sullivan via groups.io <Watchesherons...> Subject: [southbaybirds] correction on Eagle at Lake Almaden
Good morning birders…..
Yesterday, I reported a Golden Eagle over Lake Almaden. After further review of my photos and asking for help in IDing a juvenile eagle I am changing the ID to an Immature Bald Eagle.
I will correct my ebird listing.
Good birding,
Linda Sullivan
Santa Teresa
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 3/25/26 10:02 am From: Linda Sullivan via groups.io <Watchesherons...> Subject: [southbaybirds] GOLDEN EAGLE Almaden
Howdy birders.
Lake Almaden….
At 9:25 a beautiful Golden Eagle came in and made a dive for a gull.
All the gulls took flight. Hope my distant photos (small lens) come out.
I’m waiting for the Bald Eagle that seems to come to Lake Almaden on a daily basis.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 3/24/26 3:41 pm From: Eve Meier via groups.io <eve.m.meier...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Rancho Cañada del Oro
Hi Everyone!
It's getting birdy out there! I was walking with my mom at Rancho Cañada
del Oro and heard my FOS *Black-headed Grosbeaks* right from the parking
lot. I assume March is very early for them because ebird marked them as
"rare". Along the Longwall Canyon trail, I heard my FOS *Cassin's Vireo*.
Lots of other birds were singing but I didn't spend the time to id all of
them. Here's my incidental ebird list:
https://ebird.org/checklist/S312821815
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 3/23/26 4:01 pm From: Linda Sullivan via groups.io <Watchesherons...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Bald Eagles at Lake Almaden
Good day birders,
I read Lisa Meyers post and want to tell you that today I was coming home from birding around Guadalupe Oak Grove where I got my target bird the Hooded Oriole. In thirty minutes I had 23 species.
I decided to go to Lake Almaden to check on things there. Those who know me know why I go on a daily basis.
While stopped at the red light at Coleman and Almaden Expressway I saw the gulls were all over the sky. Looking from the inside of my car I spot the Bald Eagle. I believe it was the 4th year female.
I am now hanging out the window to take photos. All of a sudden from my right flying low over Almaden Expressway to Lake Almaden was the male Bald Eagle. The sky was loaded with gulls now. What a treat!
I was never so happy for the 5 minute red light!
I went into Lake Almaden to park my car and to check on things and bam…. The Bald Eagle is over the lake. I told a couple and they were so thrilled to see a Bald Eagle in our neighborhood.
Hoping to spot this bird for my SCVBA Birdathon day on April 24 for the Almaden Eagles.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 3/23/26 1:09 pm From: Lisa Myers via groups.io <lisa...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Two AM Bald Eagles Flying over 17 at Lark
Hi all -
Most know that a pair of *BALD EAGLES* are being reported this year at
both Almaden Lake and Vasona Lake. This morning at 11:45 AM I observed
two adult BALD EAGLES circling together above Lark Ave. at 17. A
*RED-TAILED HAWK* was circling above the eagles. The only time I welcome
red lights. Seeing Bald Eagles just never gets old!
Lisa Myers
Let's Go Birding/Los Gatos Birdwatcher
PS - The Santa Clara Valley Bird Alliance Spring Birdathon is upon us.
We welcome you to join our team which will be going out the morning of
April 11. And there are many more teams you can join too. Take a look -
https://scvbirdalliance.org/birdathon.
When it comes to helping the bird world - if not us than who?
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 3/23/26 10:48 am From: Kim Blythe via groups.io <blythekim.ca...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Warblers at Sanborn
Hi all!
I usually strike out at Sanborn Park, but this morning the area above the Sequoia parking area was crawling with warblers!
I never left the paved trail, but walked down the hill first area where I heard and saw my first of five Townsend’s Warblers and one singing Wilson’s Warbler.
A bus dropped off 50 screaming students, but that didn’t deter the warblers. Near the top of the hill I was trying to get a good look at any of the three Townsend’s overhead, when I found myself face-to-face with the bright yellow head of a Hermit Warbler!
I sat on the bench near the small cement pond at the top of the hill and watched a silent Black-throated Gray Warbler fly to a bare oak tree near the giant redwood grove.
Brown Creepers and Purple Finches were also singing this morning, as well as Western Flycatchers.
I might add that I was not disappointed not to find Yellow-rumped Warblers! But unfortunately the construction noise is still omnipresent at the park.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 3/23/26 12:13 am From: Gautam S via groups.io <gsinha1...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve - Magpies, Jays, Wrens, Finches
Yesterday, on March 21, 2026, at the Coyote Valley Open Space Preserve, saw a pair of Yellow-billed Magpies, a Bewick's Wren, a male Lesser Goldfinch, a California Scrub-Jay, many Red-winged Blackbirds, and a Turkey Vulture.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 3/22/26 6:43 pm From: Vicki Silvas-Young via groups.io <mrnngwrblr...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Today's First Day of Spring at Lake Cunningham
Good afternoon, SBBers, Today we lucked out and the weather was just right! Fourteen birders met us at the Marina parking lot of Lake Cunningham park. It was a bit cool, just a little wind, hardly any clouds and a lot of enthusiasm as we started out on a 30 species day. A chorus of Great-tailed Grackles greeted us as Tree Swallows and Cliff Swallows darted overhead and California Gulls started to arrive from the Kirby Canyon landfill. We checked out the wells in the pepper trees, but no sapsuckers were feeding today. *Sigh* Spring was in the air with American Coots battling it out, Pied-billed Grebe displaying to each other, and a male Common Yellowthroat singing his heart out to an unknown lady love along with a couple of other Common Yellowthroats. Maybe they were all competing for the same lady love!!? Bushtits were busy in pairs gathering nesting material and catching a snack here and there. White-crowned sparrows were in abundance and singing rambunctiously. I suspect they are from the south and beginning their migration northward, but stopped by the Native Garden to "tank" up before their northward journey. A Green Heron did a very quick flyby and did not linger. Darn! It was not easy but Eve helped find a Hooded Oriole at the very top of a Eucalyptus tree and earlier helped find a Red-winged Blackbird, lurking in a tree. A Red-tailed Hawk dramatically swooped amongst the trees in the Native Garden taking us for a nice surprise. Two Song Sparrows who were obviously a pair entertained us up with their tender interaction. Ahhh, Spring. Here is the checklist for today. eBird Checklist - 22 Mar 2026 - Lake Cunningham Inner Lake Path, San Jose, California, US (37.334, -121.81) - 30 species (+2 other taxa) <https://ebird.org/checklist/S312221837> My thanks to Eve Meier who helped attendees identify birds and Arvind and Ashok who took over the botanical duties of the trip. There are a bunch of time consuming administrative duties at the beginning of the trip, thank you, Priya, for helping with those duties and making sure attendees got a bunch of merch! Join the Birdathon! Vicki
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 3/22/26 5:56 pm From: Connor Christensen via groups.io <connor.r.christensen...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Field Trip Report: Los Gatos Creek and Oka Ponds
This morning was a beautiful morning at the Los Gatos Creek and Oka ponds. We enjoyed the sights and sounds of many birds and saw lots of breeding activity. From a Nuttall's Woodpecker drumming and Anna's Hummingbirds doing their diving display, to an American Crow breaking off branches to build its nest. Along the creek, we observed 3 Anna's Hummingbird nests in various stages of use. One was empty from a successful fledge over a month ago, another was being actively sat on, and the last was in the very early stages of nest building. We were also delighted with an active Bushtit nest with a familiar egg filled sag and a parent seen entering.
The ponds had a few small flocks of straggling winter ducks and a few dozen swallows filling the air. Over and around the ponds, Northern Rough-winged Swallows were feeding and even seen gathering nesting material from the ground. The Cliff Swallows were already busily visiting the underside of the creek bridge, where they nest every season. We also saw and heard our first of the season Hooded Orioles, including a male, female, and a first-year male inspecting the palms along the creek. In total, we identified 53 species, 26 of which had breeding behavior codes. Here is a copy of the checklist https://ebird.org/atlascalifornia/checklist/S312132317 ( https://ebird.org/atlascalifornia/checklist/S312132317 ).
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 3/22/26 5:12 pm From: Karen via groups.io <karush111...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Field Notes for North Coyote Valley & Laguna Seca
Thank you everyone for joining Philip, Sarah and I early this morning. Everybody pitched in and helped find, identify and help others find birds...Thank you. It was a fantastic trip today and did not disappoint with the arrival of some of the spring birds. When we first arrived a low mist hung over the valley and the birds soon appeared on all sides. In fact there were so many birds it took a quite a while to make it to the base of the hills. Here is a link to the full list. https://ebird.org/checklist/S312199306
We started with a good look at the Laguna Seca pond at the other end of the valley through some scopes where we saw some Great Egrets, Green-winged teals, Greater Yellowlegs with several flyovers by the Egrets and Great Blue Heron. Red-wing Blackbirds and Western Meadows kept popping up out of the thick grass to fly to the tops of nearby trees as we moved along. We were constantly surrounded by a loud chorus of Red-wings for the entire trip which was very different from the last trip where we had ZERO (December). American and Lesser Goldfinches flew among the willows next to the creek. We flushed a Wilson's Snipe and had some good looks at a Yellow-billed Magpie sitting 2 ft from a Sharp-shinned Hawk at the top of an oak. We then hit an oak tree that was the social spot for many species: Northern House Wren, Yellow-rumped Warblers, Western Bluebirds, Acorn Woodpeckers, Lark Sparrows and the newly arrived Western Kingbirds while Tree Swallows flew overhead. The Red-tailed Hawks and American Kestrels flew along the top of the hill looking for food. A Bullock's Oriole also very briefly appeared. We saw several instances of gathering nest material from Northern Mockingbirds and courtship behavior from Wild Turkeys, Red-winged Blackbirds and the Kestrals.
A patch of Plantain and Serpentine rocks were seen along the trail and a field of spider webs spread low to the ground. And the Buckeye ( https://www.inaturalist.org/guide_taxa/358044 ) Butterfly!
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Peg, Diane, Zainab, and I had a delightful, blue skies, sunshiney morning today on the Bay at the drop-in event we hosted at the Charleston Slough in Mountain View. ~25 birders and bird-curious community members joined us as we got to revel in:
- some favorite wintertime visitors that will be heading home soon (Northern Shovelers, Green-Winged Teals, Canvasbacks)- frequent (and welcome) interruptions by the returning Barn Swallows - Cliff Swallows scoping out a potential nesting site on the underside of the nearby wooden structure- a pair of Northern Harriers circling high above- Snowy Egrets showing off their delicate breeding plumage - an endearing display of American Coots scurrying down the mudflats into the water- American Avocets in transition to their striking orange breeding plumage- first-of-season Brown-Headed Cowbird (yikes!)- House Finches gathering and depositing nesting material- a flock of American White Pelicans that appeared in time to bid us adieu at the end of our event
And so much more! Full eBird list here: https://ebird.org/checklist/S312124863 Until next time,Subha, Peg, Diane, and ZainabField Trips — Santa Clara Valley Bird Alliance
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 3/21/26 3:05 pm From: Garrett Lau via groups.io <Garrett.Lau...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Spring Migrants on John Nicholas Trail, 3/21/2026
I went to John Nicholas Trail this morning hoping to find a Wilson’s
Warbler. I heard one as soon as I parked my car in the parking lot on Black
Road, but I proceeded to take the trail to Lake Ranch Reservoir to see what
else I could find. There were eight more Wilson’s Warblers singing along
the trail to the lake, and at least four at the lake. Other spring migrants
singing along the trail were Western Warbling Vireos and a Western
Flycatcher.
At the lake, near the far picnic table, there were two Cassin’s Vireos in a
willow tree and a Black-headed Grosbeak singing nearby. Other highlights at
the lake were a pair of Hooded Mergansers and an adult Bald Eagle catching
and eating a fish.
When I got back to my car, I heard another Cassin’s Vireo.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 3/21/26 11:32 am From: Subha Mohan via groups.io <scuba_diver_4009...> Subject: [southbaybirds] [SCVBA 3.21.26 Trip Report] Drop-In Event at McClellan Ranch
We were graced by the concerts of spring at the drop-in event hosted by myself and Peg at the bird feeders at the SCVBA headquarters in McClellan Ranch. We and 17 attendees got to enjoy:
- White-Crowned Sparrows and Golden-Crowned Sparrows entering their breeding plumage before they migrate out for the season
- The lovable ruckus of the local Acorn Woodpecker family
- Up-close views of the White-Breasted Nuthatch and the Pygmy Nuthatch (while not simultaneously, still great for a size comparison)
- A lone Bushtit that was uncharacteristically was exploring the ground by the feeders
- The startling rattle of a male Nuttall’s Woodpecker
- Lots of vocal practice from the aptly named Song Sparrows
- Several American Crows flying by with nest material
A lovely morning to usher in what promises to be an eventful spring!
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 3/20/26 7:28 pm From: carlin otto via groups.io <carlinotto...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] Pair of Great Horned Owls
The pair of Great Horned Owls continues to hang out in this area.
You can hear them talking to each other very reliably between 19:10 (7:10pm)
and 19:30 (7:30pm). I hear them sometimes even in the day time.
On Thu, Mar 12, 2026 at 7:04 AM carlin otto <carlinotto...> wrote:
> In Palo Alto, along Adobe Creek, where it crosses Park Avenue,
>
(south of the intersection of Alma/Central and Charleston)
> there is a pair of Great Horned Owls. This pair has been observed now
> for over one week. Attached is a bad quality
> video of crows mobbing one of these owls.
>
> Carlin Otto
>
>
>
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 3/20/26 8:04 am From: Brooke Miller via groups.io <brooke.bam...> Subject: [southbaybirds] California Bird Atlas Town Hall (Mar 19, 2026) Recording on YouTube
You'll learn everything you need to know to participate.
Please let me know if you have questions.
Brooke Miller
CBA Regional Coordinator SCL County
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Brooke Miller via groups.io <brooke.bam...>
Date: Wed, Mar 18, 2026 at 11:45 AM
Subject: [southbaybirds] [CALBIRDS] California Bird Atlas Town Hall
Tomorrow Night (Zoom)
To: Birds South Bay <southbaybirds...>
Brooke Miller
Begin forwarded message:
*From:* "Van Pierszalowski via groups.io" <van=
<californiabirdatlas.org...>
*Date:* March 18, 2026 at 8:09:30 AM PDT
*To:* <calbirds...>
*Subject:* *[CALBIRDS] California Bird Atlas Town Hall Tomorrow Night
(Zoom)*
*Reply-To:* <van...>
I’ll be joined by CBA Science Director Sam Safran to share updates and
answer questions. The level of engagement statewide has been incredible. As
of yesterday, we’ve surpassed *50,000 Atlas checklists* across more than *4,300
blocks* from over *2,700 birders*. And we're just getting started.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
I too had a Hooded Oriole at the parking lot of Filoli
It’s an Oriole day!!!
Kimberlie Moutoux
On Thu, Mar 19, 2026 at 8:35 PM Dori via groups.io <Dorienne777=
<gmail.com...> wrote:
> We also had an HOOR FOY this morning!
> [image: image0.jpeg]
>
>
> On Mar 19, 2026, at 6:53 PM, David Zittin via groups.io <dzittin=
> <gmail.com...> wrote:
>
>
> We had a beautiful, bright male spend several seconds on our backyard
> jelly feeder about 30 minutes ago.
> -Dave Zittin
> Cupertino
>
>
>
>
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 3/18/26 3:45 pm From: Eve Meier via groups.io <eve.m.meier...> Subject: [southbaybirds] SCVBA Field Trip to Coyote Lake
Hi Everyone!
Today Edward Rooks, Bill Albrets and I led a SCVBA field trip at Coyote Lake, one of my favorites! Highlights at the campground were watching the pair of *Oak Titmice* working on their nest in the valley oak in the parking lot, watching the very gangly *Great Blue Herons* land at their nesting site and seeing them on their nests, finding the *Red-breasted Sapsuckers* in the peppertrees (and other trees), and watching the *Double-crested Cormorants* trying to cool down in the heat. At the dam, the highlights were the *Bald Eagle *on the nest, the *White-throated Swifts* zipping above us and the surprise pair of *Wood Ducks*. Several pairs of grebes, mostly *Western Grebes*, were "rushing" across the water. After the trip, the *Rock Wren *showed itself. We never did see the Canyon Wren (my third try)!
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 3/18/26 11:45 am From: Brooke Miller via groups.io <brooke.bam...> Subject: [southbaybirds] [CALBIRDS] California Bird Atlas Town Hall Tomorrow Night (Zoom)
Date: 3/17/26 6:55 pm From: hirttax via groups.io <hirttax...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Almaden Lake Park
There were 9 adult male Great-tailed Grackles on the lawn near the restroom on the Winfield Drive entrance. Waiting for females to nest on the lake’s heron and egret rookery island.
Also. Scaly-Breasted Munias are still daily visitors to the feeders at the corner of Almaden Lake Drive and Fairhope Place near the lake.
The SCVBA Birdathon kick-off event is March 25th. Register and Put it on your calendar.
My Rock Wren Birdathon team is going all out on Saturday. April 18th. Website is open for pledges now.
Bob
Bob Hirt
(408) 821-2732
Please excuse the brevity, the typos, and the sometimes humorous autocorrect changes.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 3/16/26 1:31 pm From: Lisa Myers via groups.io <lisa...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] Coyote Lake and Stile Ranch
I was with a group birding at Coyote Lake just yesterday. After much patience we observed both the *Rock and Canyon Wrens* at the dam. Neither were singing, so we had to spot them as they popped out of the boulders. It was a lazy morning and we spent a lot of time hanging out at the damn. And the *White-throated Swifts *were very active at the dam offering great views.
The *Red-breasted Sapsucker* was very cooperative as it hung out in the Pepper Tree located on the north side of the entrance to the campground amphitheater.
We also had *Bald Eagles* and a *Golden Eagle*.
Lisa Myers
On 3/14/26 12:12 PM, Eve Meier via groups.io wrote: > Hi Everyone! > > Yesterday, Melissa J and I visited Coyote Lake. Fun sightings at the > campground were a couple of *Red-breasted Sapsuckers* on the > peppertrees, a pair of *Western Grebes* performing the weed ceremony > and nesting *Great Blue Herons*. At the dam we had a *Bald Eagle*, a > *Golden Eagle*, *Rufous-crowned Sparrows*, *White-throasted Swifts* > and a *Rock Wren *but no Canyon Wren. > > ebird campground: https://ebird.org/checklist/S308839966 > ebird dam: https://ebird.org/checklist/S308824544 > > I did a brief walk at Stiles Ranch this morning. The poppies are just > starting to bloom. I was able to find one male *Rufous Hummingbird*, > a few *Horned Lark* and *Rufous-crowned Sparrows*. > > ebird: https://ebird.org/checklist/S309152859 > > Happy birding! > Eve Meier (San Jose) >
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 3/16/26 10:26 am From: Matthew Dodder via groups.io <mdodder...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] CALBIRDS - California Bird Atlas Update
Santa Clara Valley Bird Alliance is an official founding sponsor of the California Bird Atlas. On page 14 of the recent spring issue of the AVOCET, Barry Langdon-Lassagne wrote an excellent summary of how to participate in the atlas project by configuring your mobile phone. I encourage you to take a look at it and start submitting your eBird reports to the atlas by joining the project on the app’s start screen.
We will also have Van Pierszalowski as our guest on Speaker Series soon. Stay tuned!
Finally, spring migrants have begun to appear at the Ranch. Last week several Western Warbling Vireos showed up along side a few Northern House Wrens. Today I heard the first Hooded Oriole in the fan palms. Today is also the first day in months I have not heard Ruby-crowned Kinglet or Yellow-rumped Warbler from my office window. There have been no signs of Western Flycatcher, or Black-chinned Hummingbird at the Preserve yet, but any day…
Matthew
Matthew Dodder (he/him)
Executive Director
Santa Clara Valley Bird Alliance
22221 McClellan Rd.
Cupertino, CA 95014
408-252-3748
<director...>
scvbirdalliance.org
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 3/15/26 5:53 pm From: Christopher Salander via groups.io <cheirisophus...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Golden Eagle in San Jose
I saw a Golden Eagle at 1:30 pm today. It flew out of a large oak tree at Almaden Meadows Park, a hilly park at the intersection of Meridian Avenue and Camden Avenue in San José. It headed off to the northeast.
This is also a great spot to study Acorn Woodpeckers.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 3/15/26 12:26 pm From: Subha Mohan via groups.io <scuba_diver_4009...> Subject: [southbaybirds] [SCVBA 3.15.26 Trip Report] Beginner Bird Walk at Lake Cunningham
Amanda and I enjoyed a sunny spring morning with 9 beginner birders on our 1-hour walk along Lake Cunningham in East San Jose. Ahead of the heat predicted for today, we were delighted by a soothing lakeside breeze, a continuous hour of birdsong, and great views of:
- male Ruddy Ducks ensconced in their breeding plumage with their baby blue bill- a Common Yellowthroat giving us a witchety-witchety vocal and visual display at the base of the native garden- American Coots chasing after each other on the water’s surface and some feet on display when they wandered ashore- an island of American White Pelicans and Double-Crested Cormorants- a squad of American Crows dive-bombing a possible juvenile Red-Tailed Hawk- several trees bustling with Yellow-Rumped Warblers- a Green Heron in flight across the lake- an actively munching flock of Cedar Waxwings to close out the trip
A lovely March morning with lovely birding company!
Until next time,Subha and AmandaField Trips: https:// scvbirdalliance.org/fieldtripsBirdathon Teams: https://scvbirdalliance.org/ birdathon
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 3/15/26 12:26 pm From: Brooke Miller via groups.io <brooke.bam...> Subject: [southbaybirds] February 2026 Cumulative Bird Report for Santa Clara County
Happy Spring South Bay Birders!
Please join the California Bird Atlas project--a 5 year project using eBird
to document bird breeding in California. To learn more and get started
follow this link: https://ebird.org/atlascalifornia/about/
I missed 1 bird in January, a Common Poorwill, in the Santa Cruz Mountains
found by Dani Christensen, on 2026-01-23. That increased our January total
from 206 to 207.
We had 10 ABA countable birds found in February, bringing the total
countable birds for the year so far to 217. The average number of birds
found in February is 9, and the average at the end of February is 211.
Thank you to everyone that birded, and took the time to report birds either
on SBB, eBird, or send emails directly to me.
The 10 new birds found in February were:
1. American Bittern (4), 2026-02-01, found at 3 separate locations (Coast
Casey Forebay, Grant Lake, and Sunnyvale WPCP East Pond, by multiple
observers
2. Lesser Black-backed Gull (5), found by Marty Freeland at Salt Pond A13,
on 2026-02-04
3. Sanderling (4), 2026-02-04, found by Marty Freeland at Salt Pond A13
4. Cassin’s Kingbird (4), seen by Garrett Lau on 2026-02-09, along San
Felipe Rd
5. Ring-necked Pheasant (4), seen by Garrett Lau on 2026-02-13, at Harvey
Marsh
6. Northern Rough-winged Swallow (2), seen by Dave Weber on 2026-02-17, at
Ed Levin County Park-Spring Valley area
7. Common Murre (5), found by Aaron Srugis on Salt Pond A3W on 2026-02-19
8. Red-necked Grebe (5), found by Eve Meier on Chesbro Reservoir on
2026-02-20
9. Glaucous Gull (4), found by Garrett Lau on Salt Pond A13, on 2026-02-24
10. Rufous Hummingbird (3), found on 2026-02-27, by Abhinav Saha, at his
residence near N De Anza Blvd and Highway 280
**Rarity Codes:
1 = common, always seen in habitat in season.
2 = fairly common, usually in habitat in season, but missed sometimes.
3 = uncommon, always around, but sometimes you can't find.
4 = rare, occurs yearly in the county, but not always in same places.
5 = very rare, does not occur every year.
6 = casual or vagrant, generally fewer than 10 records.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 3/14/26 3:24 pm From: Howard Friedman via groups.io <howardnfriedman...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Alum Rock Field Trip on the Lucky Friday the 13th
Hi birding friends,
Bob Bolles and I lead a delightful and enthusiastic group of birders on a trip along Penitencia Creek Trail in Alum Rock Park this last Friday the 13th. Our group had some new birders and some more advanced birders. Just as we started out, we found California Quail feeding on the hillside, a Brown Creeper feeding on an oak, several Acorn Woodpeckers, and heard a calling Nuttall's Woodpecker. As we moved along, we heard a could of trilling Bewick's Wrens and observed a solo Red-tailed Hawk circling above.
Farther down the trail we saw a few Bushtits, Chestnut-backed Chickadees, and Oak Titmouses. Near the Inspiration Trail junction, we observed our first White Breasted Nuthatches. The pair were very active and seemed to be moving about their nest. We entered the park main area where we saw some Tree Swallow feeding. From here near the first bridge in the park, we observed an Oak Titmouse entering its nest hole. This created quite a bit of excitement. Moving deeper into the park we listened to the calls of mobs of Steller's Jays chasing each other through the trees.
Looking into the creek a male Mallard was swimming solo, most likely looking for a mate. Looking up toward the ridge line at Sierra Vista we saw a kettle of Turkey Vultures circling above with a pair of Red-tailed Hawks. THhs seemed to be the pair we saw mating in a dead eucalyptus snag earlier. This might have been the highlight of the trip. While looking in the ridge direction we were able to watch Band-tailed Pigeons fly into a tree on the lower hillside.
Return, we saw many of the same birds. The new species we were able to enjoy darting about were four Northern Rough-winged Swallows seeming to be looking for food of nesting areas under the bridges.
When we returned we saw another Red-tailed Hawk land on here nest in the eucalyptus above Eagle Rock Parking lot. It was a fun day with really fun and kind people. Looking forward to leading a trip once more. I am grateful to Bob Bolles for his help and knowledge making the trip very fun. Thank you everyone who attended, you all make a difference. (check the eBird List to see all the birds we observed)
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 3/14/26 12:13 pm From: Eve Meier via groups.io <eve.m.meier...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Coyote Lake and Stile Ranch
Hi Everyone!
Yesterday, Melissa J and I visited Coyote Lake. Fun sightings at the campground were a couple of *Red-breasted Sapsuckers* on the peppertrees, a pair of *Western Grebes* performing the weed ceremony and nesting *Great Blue Herons*. At the dam we had a *Bald Eagle*, a *Golden Eagle*, *Rufous-crowned Sparrows*, *White-throasted Swifts* and a *Rock Wren *but no Canyon Wren.
I did a brief walk at Stiles Ranch this morning. The poppies are just starting to bloom. I was able to find one male *Rufous Hummingbird*, a few *Horned Lark* and *Rufous-crowned Sparrows*.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
As I drove down Fortini at 8:30 this morning I heard the call of a BULLOCKS ORIOLE. I stopped and found a bright orange and black male high in a Sycamore. A WHITE TAILED KITE pair was perched on snags here and some WESTERN BLUEBIRDS were along the wire.
I birded north or west along the Calero Creek trail and shocked when a vocalizing PILEATED WOODPECKER flew in from the orchard and into a tall Valley Oak along the creek. I couldn't find it in the tree but after some prompting it flew out towards the Santa Teresa Hills and disappeared. A LARK SPARROW was singing in a small tree here.
Our neighborhood WHITE TAILED KITE attracted a mate the day after I reported it but she disappeared later the same day. He's still atop the same tree but not calling as much. photo
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 3/12/26 7:05 am From: carlin otto via groups.io <carlinotto...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Pair of Great Horned Owls
In Palo Alto, along Adobe Creek, where it crosses Park Avenue, there is a pair of Great Horned Owls. This pair has been observed now for over one week. Attached is a bad quality video of crows mobbing one of these owls.
Carlin Otto
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Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
