Date: 10/21/26 4:03 pm From: Eve Meier via groups.io <eve.m.meier...> Subject: [southbaybirds] SCVBA field trip to Hellyer CP
Hi Everyone!
Today Edward Rooks and I led a SCVBA field trip to Hellyer CP covering the Velodrome picnic area and the Cottonwood Lake area. We had a little over 50 species, nothing unusual (besides the *River Otter* in the lake!) but a nice variety of birds. *Yellow-rumped Warblers* were throughout the park, I logged about 40 but there were probably more. I stopped counting at some point. In the Velodrome picnic area, at least 8 *Northern Flickers *were spotted and at one point 6 of them were grouped in a single tree. *Nuttall's, Acorn Woodpeckers* and a *Red-breasted Sapsucker* were also in this area. The Red-breasted Sapsucker wells seemed to attract a variety of other birds too like *Ruby-crowned Kinglets*, *Anna's hummingbirds*, *Acorn Woodpeckers* and *Yellow-rumped Warblers*. A *Cooper's Hawk* flew by at one point with a trail of about 8 small birds trailing it. My first thought was *Bushtits *but they may have been *Anna's Hummingbirds*. *Fox Sparrows, Dark-eyed Juncos, Song Sparrows, White-crowned Sparrows *and *Golden-crowned Sparrows *were all seen on the lawn. Towards the end of the trip, when we were returning to the picnic area, two female *Purple Finches* were spotted high in a couple of leafless trees.
Around and on the lake, were a dense congregation of about 30 *Great Egrets* and 10 *Snowy Egrets* with a couple of *Double-crested Cormorants*. A single *Greater Yellowlegs *flew away as we approached the lake. *Killdeer *were in the large lawn area and a flock of about 30 *Cedar Waxwings* arrived in the willows along the lake. No winter ducks yet - just the *Mallards* and only 1 *California Gull*. Lots of small birds were here too - *Townsend's and Yellow-rumped Warblers*, *Oak Titmice*, *Ruby-crowned Kinglets*, *Dark-eyed Juncos,* etc.
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: 10/21/26 2:54 pm From: Dorothy Johnson via groups.io <dfj6281...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Hooded Mergansers at Edith Morley Park, Campbell
Hi Everyone,
I visited Edith Morley Park in Campbell this afternoon, and saw 2 FOS HOODED MERGANSERS in the middle perc pond. Other birds seen included a KINGFISHER, GREAT and SNOWY EGRETS, GREEN HERON, BLACK CROWNED NIGHT HERON, KILLDEER and KINGLETS, BEWICK'S WREN, and of course YELLOW RUMPED WARBLERS.
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: 10/21/26 7:58 am From: Brooke Miller via groups.io <brooke.bam...> Subject: [southbaybirds] SEPTEMBER 2026 Cumulative Bird Report for Santa Clara County
South Bay Birders:
In September we added 10 new countable birds, bringing the total to 283 at
the end of the month. The average for September is 10 new birds, with an
average of 267 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 September:
1. Eastern Kingbird (6), 2026-09-01, found by Chris Johnson at Penitencia
Creek Trail
2. Sabine's Gull (5), 2026-09-04, seen by Alex Wiebe at Sunnyvale
WPCP--West Pond
3. Common Nighthawk (6), 2026-09-08, found by Enya Cordoba at Shoreline Lake
4. Northern Waterthrush (5), 2026-09-14, found by Kai Mills along the
Stevens Creek Trail--El Camino Real to US-101
5. Clark's Nutcracker (6), 2026-09-19, seen by Chris Henry flying along the
Upper Saddle at Loma Prieta
6. American Redstart (5), 2026-09-20, found by Carter Gasiorowski at Santa
Clara University
7. Evening Grosbeak (5), 2026-09-20, seen by Multiple Observers at Upper
Mt. Madonna Rd at Loma Prieta
8. Cassin's Finch (6), 2026-09-24, found by Multiple Observers at Upper Mt.
Madonna Rd at Loma Prieta
9. Yellow-throated Vireo (6), 2026-09-27, found by Carter Gasiorowski and
Iris Yuh at the Rengstorff House at Shoreline Park
10. Blackpoll Warbler (5), 2026-09-29, found by Garrett Lau at Vasona Lake
County Park.
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: 10/20/26 7:54 pm From: Connor Christensen via groups.io <connor.r.christensen...> Subject: [southbaybirds] SCVBA Field Trip Report: Don Edwards 10/18/26
Hello everyone,
We had a wonderful morning of birding on Sunday at Don Edwards National Wildlife Refuge. Our morning began with a Northern Harrier hunting over New Chicago Marsh. We followed the Harrier down into the marsh to get some close looks at American Avocets, Black-necked Stilts, and a Greater Yellowlegs, which were wading through the high tide, with Killdeer and Least Sandpipers foraging along the shores. As we made our way up onto the levee, we had a great view of Pond A16, which was beginning to fill up with wintering ducks and gulls. A surprisingly large flock of Redheads swam in the back part of the pond. An adorable family of Black Skimmers also rested on the first island. Two adults dutifully guarded their juvenile, chasing off a Snow Egret and American Crow that crept too close for their liking. As we made our way up Mallard Slough Trail, we were serenaded by Marsh Wrens while listening carefully for rails. Eventually, we were rewarded with Soras singing and a Virginia Rail that called from the reeds right in front of us. Our trip was bookended by another raptor, as an American Kestrel made for an exciting final bird. In total, we observed 52 different species. Here is a copy of our checklist ( https://ebird.org/atlascalifornia/checklist/S403497415 ).
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: 10/20/26 4:23 pm From: Max Liske via groups.io <max.liske89...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] Don Edwards, Grand Ave.
Hi All,
I drove past on Monday to go to the trailhead and asked the crew and they
said it should be done by Monday 10/26.
On Tue, Oct 20, 2026 at 1:56 PM Eve Meier via groups.io <eve.m.meier=
<gmail.com...> wrote:
> Hi All,
>
> It’s my understanding that they are paving Grand Blvd and that the work is
> supposed to be done on Friday.
>
> Eve Meier
>
> > On Oct 20, 2026, at 1:48 PM, Kim Blythe via groups.io <blythekim.ca=
> <gmail.com...> wrote:
> >
> > Now this???
> >
> >
> > Does anyone know if this is permanent? 😢
> > Perhaps they’re just paving the road along my favorite little patch?
> > —Kim
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> >
> > <image0.jpeg>
>
>
>
>
>
>
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: 10/20/26 1:56 pm From: Eve Meier via groups.io <eve.m.meier...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] Don Edwards, Grand Ave.
Hi All,
It’s my understanding that they are paving Grand Blvd and that the work is supposed to be done on Friday.
Eve Meier
> On Oct 20, 2026, at 1:48 PM, Kim Blythe via groups.io <blythekim.ca...> wrote:
>
> Now this???
>
>
> Does anyone know if this is permanent? 😢
> Perhaps they’re just paving the road along my favorite little patch?
> —Kim
>
>
>
>
>
>
> <image0.jpeg>
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: 10/18/26 3:17 pm From: David Zittin via groups.io <dzittin...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Horned Larks at Sierra Vista
Hi Birders,
We have never encountered so many Horned Larks that seemed indifferent to people. Another birder directed me to the corral area below SV parking. There were 4 Horned Larks within 30 feet of the fence. Later we walked the Aquila Loop and saw two more at the entrance. These let me get within 15 feet for photos. All were busy feeding.
We also had a nice close fly-by of a mature Golden Eagle.
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: 10/18/26 1:07 am From: Melody Bafetti via groups.io <melodyybirds...> Subject: [southbaybirds] TJ Martin Park - Chipping Sparrows and More!
Hi all,
Kaden Oh and I took a quick visit to TJ Martin this Saturday afternoon, and found it exceptionally birdy! I’m happy to report the *Chipping Sparrows* are back! We saw 3 foraging on the side of the concrete walking path, just east of the playground around 37.23353, -121.88899. They were joined by a pair of *Savannah* *Sparrows* , which we saw foraging with the Chipping Sparrows before flying off into a nearby tree. We also had some other interesting finds in the large field, including 6 *Killdeer* , 2 *Western Meadowlarks* and an *American Pipit* ! I’ve attached some photos of the Chipping Sparrows, as well as the link to our eBird checklist here ( https://ebird.org/checklist/S403279221?continue ). Hopefully the Chipping Sparrows stick around, and perhaps someone can find a Clay-Colored Sparrow hidden in the mix!
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: 10/17/26 9:50 am From: Lisa Myers via groups.io <lisa...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Northern Pygmy Owl at Bear Creek Redwoods.
Hi all,
Julie Rose and I got to Bear Creek redwoods open space this morning before the parking lot filled. Our goal was to find Varied Thrush. We took the trail up the hill across the road and about a half a mile up we stopped for a group of mobbing birds. Our patience paid off and at 9:30 am we eventually found a NORTHERN PYGMY OWL sitting high above. The attached cell phone photo shows the “baked potato” sitting on the branch to the right of the truck.
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: 10/16/26 11:10 pm From: Howard Friedman via groups.io <howardnfriedman...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Flat tires, heroes, and amazing peope-Birding Arrowhead Marsh
Adventure, I like to think of our birding trips as adventures. We never know what we will see or hear and sometimes there are experiences that are not what we expect at all. The trip started with me heading north on Interstate 880 with the intention of being an hour early to scout the area and have some ideas about where we’d begin the walk. Well, I am in the number two lane with cars and trucks zipping by at super high rates of speed. All of a sudden the car starts shuddering and shaking really hard. I pulled over knowing I had a flat. Getting to the shoulder was intense to say the least. My front left tire popped from the sidewall. I had no spare tire! That is how many newer cars are designed. I called CSAA for a tow. Well that worked out. I got the tow home without me having to be present.
I then thought about the trip, which I had to lead in 40 minutes. I called Linda Pors to see if she had Dan Bloch’s phone number. Thanks for doing your best Linda. Time was of the essence. Dan was my co-lead (and future super hero) for the trip to Arrowhead Marsh. I had to get in touch with him immediately. Calling Linda was a good intention, but a dead end. Hmmm, I thought to call Carolyn Knight (My Knight in shining armor) who texted me Dan’s phone number in seconds. Unbelievably enough he was minutes behind me. Dan picked me up where the tow truck driver dropped me off at the next exit at a gas station. Needless to say, we were pretty much right on time to begin the trip.
Our group was down a few members, but the group was excited and really positive about our prospects. Prior to our arrival, everyone had already identified a Western Willet and a Black-billed Plover right away, both being very close to us. Off in the distance on the sound were three Western Grebes and a Clark’s Grebe floating on the calmest water. Several Western Gull were out on the sound as well, just chillin’.
**
**
Not too soon after that, we began moving along the western channel, then some Rigway’s Rails began calling in unfamiliar numbers. My guess was no fewer than 7 were cackling. From the Chordgrass on the opposite side another half dozen or more were calling back! A few squadrons of California Brown Pelicans cruised by on the search for food. Although there weren’t as many birds on the channel, the few species that were present put on quite a show. The nice surprises in the sound were a solo Common Murre and a Caspian Tern diving for its meal.
**
**
What I find interesting about Arrowhead Marsh is the proximity to so much industrialization, with the Oakland Airport nearby, the Coliseum Complex and industrial warehouses all around the Martin Luther King Jr. Shoreline Regional Park. Somehow, nature, assisted by human science has allowed this oasis to flourish. One of our team had an amazing handheld monocular that assisted us in finding many of the birds on the far shore. There among the Canada Geese was a Cackling Goose and a Brant! A pair of Black Oystercatchers flew by. Also, along the shore were a small omniscience of Marbled Godwits and flock of Western Willets. On our side of the channel we discovered a Spotted Sandpiper bobbing about while feeding. Walking south we spotted a Black Turnstone on the shoreline picking at the riprap. Scanning the trees in the grassy picnic areas, we spied a Cooper’s Hawk hunting for the morning meal.
**
**
In the grassy picnic areas, White-crowned Sparrows, Black Phoebes, Say’s Phoebes were busy feeding, scattering as we approached them. Heading east across the drier uplands were a Song Sparrow, some Golden and White-crowned Sparrows, a Black Phoebe, and the one Northern Mockingbird seen on this trip. When we got to the east channel, we found ten Blue-winged Teal in their breeding plumage. Nine were male and only one female/juvenile were present. As we neared the end of our trip the Rigway’s Rails began calling again. There had to be more than ten calling close by! Amazingly enough, we saw two of them lift off. They quickly hid again in the Chordgrass. Once we came to the end of the journey ,finishing up where we started, we found three Eared Grebes in the calm water close by.
This was truly an amazing trip. I have to thank Dan Bloch for his kindness, timing, generosity, and skills for helping with the trip, especially carrying my scope. Thank you to Hemant and Hemali for the ride back to San Jose. You were instrumental, compassionate, and kind for helping me out. Thank you to all the participants for your company and good humor. I look forward to seeing you all again in the field or on a trip.
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: 10/13/26 9:33 am From: Matthew O'Brien via groups.io <matthewobrien...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Pinyon Jay at SCU
Carter -
Exciting. I'm an SCU grad (BSEE 1973), but can assure you I never saw a Pinyon Jay at SCU while I was there!
Pinyon Jays are an irruptive species, and have come in numbers to the Bay Area at times. I was lucky one such time.
In 2003, I saw a single individual on San Antonio Valley Road, just as the road down from Lick flattens out into the valley. At that time, Bill Bousman was the "keeper of the list and reporter" for Santa Clara County for South Bay Birds. He gathered multiple record sources.
As Pinyon Jay was significant, I reported the sighting in my trip list and sent it in.
He then replied, and told me that according to all his records, that was the first sighting in Santa Clara County. I had been at the south end of San Antonio Valley Road, which is in Santa Clara County. Proceeding north, it becomes Alameda County.
As an aside, my wife and I just spent a week in and near Santa Fe, New Mexico. We've done that maybe 8 times. This year is an irruption year there, with montane species coming down to much lower elevations. At Santa Fe level, there were ample Pinyon Jays, Clark's Nutcrackers, all three nuthatch species (usually only White-breasted), Goshawks.
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: 10/13/26 9:28 am From: Garrett Lau via groups.io <Garrett.Lau...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] [MBBIRDS] Loma Prieta neighbor threatened birders with rifle
Since someone on the MBB thread asked about the address: The shooter was at
(37.090528, -121.835868). We were at (37.091760, -121.837386). This is by
two snags where I had seen a Cassin's Finch on September 27.
Garrett Lau
On Tue, Oct 13, 2026 at 9:16 AM Ryan Phillips via groups.io <norcalbirding=
<gmail.com...> wrote:
> Important info for SBB also going up to Loma Prieta.
> Be cautious and careful. It is another world up there and reason some of
> those folks are way up there.
> Ryan
>
> *Ryan Phillips* ǀ Owner and Guide
>
> Personal and Group Birding Excursions in Northern California and Beyond
>
>
>
> Phone ǀ (831) 234-7324
>
> Email ǀ <norcalbirding...>
>
> Website ǀ *www.norcalbirding.com <http://www.norcalbirding.com/>* >
> Facebook ǀ www.facebook.com/norcalbirding
>
> "Everyone likes birds. What wild creature is more accessible to our eyes
> and ears, as close to us and everyone in the world, as universal as a bird?"
>
> - Sir David Attenborough
>
>
>
>
>
> ---------- Forwarded message ---------
> From: Cliff Bixler <clifford.bixler50...>
> Date: Mon, Oct 12, 2026, 9:31 PM
> Subject: Re: [MBBIRDS] Loma Prieta neighbor threatened birders with rifle
> To: Lola Ross <lolabones...>
> Cc: David Apgar <d_apgar...>, Kent Johnson <kentjohnson...>,
> MBBirds <mbbirds...>
>
>
> It would be good to know his address so I don't stop in front of his house.
>
> On Mon, Oct 12, 2026, 9:28 PM Lola Ross <lolabones...> wrote:
>
>> Hi folks,
>>
>> Just wanted to update you. One of the birders who was threatened spoke
>> with a deputy and explained everything that happened. The Santa Cruz
>> Sheriffs Department determined that this incident doesn’t warrant any
>> further action on their part. They told the birder that a person living in
>> that locale is allowed to shoot a gun on their own property. And based on
>> the conversation with the birders, the Sheriffs Department determined that
>> the birders were far enough away when the man pointed the gun at them that
>> he wasn’t an actual threat to them.
>>
>> That being said, please do use caution and common sense when birding Loma
>> Prieta or anywhere else, especially when it’s in a residential community.
>>
>> Sincerely,
>> Lola
>>
>> On Mon, Oct 12, 2026 at 8:04 PM David Apgar <d_apgar...> wrote:
>>
>>> Maybe Audubon had the right idea about bird identification, after all.
>>>
>>> David
>>>
>>> On Oct 12, 2026 4:55 PM, Kent Johnson <kentjohnson...> wrote:
>>>
>>> This is not the first time this has happened. I had an unpleasant
>>> encounter with a man at that same location several years ago. No gun was
>>> involved, but the man did claim that he owned the road and could prohibit
>>> anyone from using it, which is clearly untrue. At least one other birder
>>> had a similar experience in the area. If he is becoming more aggressive it
>>> certainly needs the attention of law enforcement. His home is on the Santa
>>> Cruz side of the road, so the incident should be reported to the Santa Cruz
>>> County Sheriff.
>>> Kent Johnson
>>> ------------------------------
>>> *From:* <mbbirds...> <mbbirds...> on behalf
>>> of Lola Ross <lolabones...>
>>> *Sent:* Monday, October 12, 2026 2:39 PM
>>> *To:* MBBirds <mbbirds...>
>>> *Subject:* [MBBIRDS] Loma Prieta neighbor threatened birders with rifle
>>>
>>> Hey all,
>>>
>>> This morning I went up to Loma Prieta and ran into several birders up
>>> there when I was at the Wiliamson’s Sapsucker stakeout pine (never saw it,
>>> but I did get nice photos of a RBS).
>>> Three birders from Santa Clara Co said a Loma Prieta resident threatened
>>> them with a rifle, fired two shots in the air, motioned them violently to
>>> go away, flipped them off, and pointed his rifle at them (not necessarily
>>> in that order). The birders were on the public county road. One of the
>>> three birders shared the location where it occurred (see link below). She
>>> took photos of the man and the location and was planning to file a report
>>> with the SC County Sheriff’s Office, but at Kim’s suggestion, I’m posting
>>> the info here so you can all be aware.
>>>
>>> Brian Spence also returned from that direction a little later on, and
>>> had not encountered anything untoward, but I chose not to walk up that way
>>> anyway. Two drivers also sped past us at various times, purposefully
>>> revving through the softer dirt to try to coat us with dust (once by the
>>> sapsucker tree and once at the parking area). Most drivers were courteous,
>>> but not those two.
>>>
>>> Stay safe out there. Here’s the location that was shared with me of the
>>> guy with the rifle:
>>>
>>> https://maps.app.goo.gl/diiWnzvfDEUGjFfR7?g_st=ig >>>
>>> --
>>> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google
>>> Groups "mbbirds" group.
>>> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send
>>> an email to mbbirds+<unsubscribe...>
>>> To view this discussion visit
>>> https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mbbirds/CAFCCGgm_N6wmud9%<3Dg9fY3qbD8TGupsh5tqGwoV8Fqbcmyxo-Mg...> >>> <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mbbirds/CAFCCGgm_N6wmud9%<3Dg9fY3qbD8TGupsh5tqGwoV8Fqbcmyxo-Mg...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> >>> .
>>>
>>> --
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>>> an email to mbbirds+<unsubscribe...>
>>> To view this discussion visit
>>> https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mbbirds/<BL1PPFCDE88AB4399A9209CECA42E5A8C5CAA9F2...> >>> <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mbbirds/<BL1PPFCDE88AB4399A9209CECA42E5A8C5CAA9F2...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> >>> .
>>>
>>>
>>> --
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>>> an email to mbbirds+<unsubscribe...>
>>> To view this discussion visit
>>> https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mbbirds/<DM6PR12MB34036BD721B4ED921512BFAF9B9E2...> >>> <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mbbirds/<DM6PR12MB34036BD721B4ED921512BFAF9B9E2...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> >>> .
>>>
>> --
>> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups
>> "mbbirds" group.
>> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an
>> email to mbbirds+<unsubscribe...>
>> To view this discussion visit
>> https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mbbirds/<CAFCCGgneqn88ftRfGO09_AbPTfUre-jdEKtqUGgVO_dGH8nUMw...> >> <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mbbirds/<CAFCCGgneqn88ftRfGO09_AbPTfUre-jdEKtqUGgVO_dGH8nUMw...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> >> .
>>
> --
> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups
> "mbbirds" group.
> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an
> email to mbbirds+<unsubscribe...>
> To view this discussion visit
> https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mbbirds/CAM-pbfzMY2t%3D3ZaQ%<2B1vheiUMU-JWb4Hb89soDkSKi8SAxfsauQ...> > <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mbbirds/CAM-pbfzMY2t%3D3ZaQ%<2B1vheiUMU-JWb4Hb89soDkSKi8SAxfsauQ...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> > .
>
>
>
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: 10/13/26 9:16 am From: Ryan Phillips via groups.io <norcalbirding...> Subject: [southbaybirds] [MBBIRDS] Loma Prieta neighbor threatened birders with rifle
Important info for SBB also going up to Loma Prieta.
Be cautious and careful. It is another world up there and reason some of
those folks are way up there.
Ryan
*Ryan Phillips* ǀ Owner and Guide
Personal and Group Birding Excursions in Northern California and Beyond
"Everyone likes birds. What wild creature is more accessible to our eyes
and ears, as close to us and everyone in the world, as universal as a bird?"
- Sir David Attenborough
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Cliff Bixler <clifford.bixler50...>
Date: Mon, Oct 12, 2026, 9:31 PM
Subject: Re: [MBBIRDS] Loma Prieta neighbor threatened birders with rifle
To: Lola Ross <lolabones...>
Cc: David Apgar <d_apgar...>, Kent Johnson <kentjohnson...>,
MBBirds <mbbirds...>
It would be good to know his address so I don't stop in front of his house.
On Mon, Oct 12, 2026, 9:28 PM Lola Ross <lolabones...> wrote:
> Hi folks,
>
> Just wanted to update you. One of the birders who was threatened spoke
> with a deputy and explained everything that happened. The Santa Cruz
> Sheriffs Department determined that this incident doesn’t warrant any
> further action on their part. They told the birder that a person living in
> that locale is allowed to shoot a gun on their own property. And based on
> the conversation with the birders, the Sheriffs Department determined that
> the birders were far enough away when the man pointed the gun at them that
> he wasn’t an actual threat to them.
>
> That being said, please do use caution and common sense when birding Loma
> Prieta or anywhere else, especially when it’s in a residential community.
>
> Sincerely,
> Lola
>
> On Mon, Oct 12, 2026 at 8:04 PM David Apgar <d_apgar...> wrote:
>
>> Maybe Audubon had the right idea about bird identification, after all.
>>
>> David
>>
>> On Oct 12, 2026 4:55 PM, Kent Johnson <kentjohnson...> wrote:
>>
>> This is not the first time this has happened. I had an unpleasant
>> encounter with a man at that same location several years ago. No gun was
>> involved, but the man did claim that he owned the road and could prohibit
>> anyone from using it, which is clearly untrue. At least one other birder
>> had a similar experience in the area. If he is becoming more aggressive it
>> certainly needs the attention of law enforcement. His home is on the Santa
>> Cruz side of the road, so the incident should be reported to the Santa Cruz
>> County Sheriff.
>> Kent Johnson
>> ------------------------------
>> *From:* <mbbirds...> <mbbirds...> on behalf of
>> Lola Ross <lolabones...>
>> *Sent:* Monday, October 12, 2026 2:39 PM
>> *To:* MBBirds <mbbirds...>
>> *Subject:* [MBBIRDS] Loma Prieta neighbor threatened birders with rifle
>>
>> Hey all,
>>
>> This morning I went up to Loma Prieta and ran into several birders up
>> there when I was at the Wiliamson’s Sapsucker stakeout pine (never saw it,
>> but I did get nice photos of a RBS).
>> Three birders from Santa Clara Co said a Loma Prieta resident threatened
>> them with a rifle, fired two shots in the air, motioned them violently to
>> go away, flipped them off, and pointed his rifle at them (not necessarily
>> in that order). The birders were on the public county road. One of the
>> three birders shared the location where it occurred (see link below). She
>> took photos of the man and the location and was planning to file a report
>> with the SC County Sheriff’s Office, but at Kim’s suggestion, I’m posting
>> the info here so you can all be aware.
>>
>> Brian Spence also returned from that direction a little later on, and had
>> not encountered anything untoward, but I chose not to walk up that way
>> anyway. Two drivers also sped past us at various times, purposefully
>> revving through the softer dirt to try to coat us with dust (once by the
>> sapsucker tree and once at the parking area). Most drivers were courteous,
>> but not those two.
>>
>> Stay safe out there. Here’s the location that was shared with me of the
>> guy with the rifle:
>>
>> https://maps.app.goo.gl/diiWnzvfDEUGjFfR7?g_st=ig >>
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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.
Date: 10/13/26 9:02 am From: Elinor Gates via groups.io <egates...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] Possible Pinyon Jay
I had a possible sighting of a Pinyon Jay on Mt. Hamilton, but not a good enough view to call it for sure and it moved on too quickly for me to get a photo.
Elinor
> On Oct 13, 2026, at 8:47 AM, Carter Gasiorowski via groups.io <carter.gasiorowski...> wrote:
>
> While birding at Santa Clara University just now I heard the very loud, nasal call of a PINYON JAY. Unfortunately I did not have a clear view of the sky and when I ran out to the open the bird was nowhere to be seen. I also did not get a recording. The bird must’ve been flying just above treetop level based on how loud the call was. I’m not going to claim this sighting for any of my lists but hopefully others can encounter pinyon jays if their irruption has finally reached Santa Clara county.
>
>
>
>
>
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: 10/13/26 8:47 am From: Carter Gasiorowski via groups.io <carter.gasiorowski...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Possible Pinyon Jay
While birding at Santa Clara University just now I heard the very loud, nasal call of a PINYON JAY. Unfortunately I did not have a clear view of the sky and when I ran out to the open the bird was nowhere to be seen. I also did not get a recording. The bird must’ve been flying just above treetop level based on how loud the call was. I’m not going to claim this sighting for any of my lists but hopefully others can encounter pinyon jays if their irruption has finally reached Santa Clara county.
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: 10/12/26 9:27 am From: Karen via groups.io <karush111...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Field Notes: Moss Landing Beach and Jetty Road
Our rescheduled trip to Moss Landing Beach, Jetty Road was a great trip for the October Big Day. It was a pretty impressive trip from our sheer numbers and the number of birds (We had 60!) we were able to see with the help of Matthew Dodder and his scopes. Thank you Matthew and Cricket, and Linda. Unfortunately there were also quite a few dead sea lions and common murres on the beach, possibly larger numbers than expected from the effects of El Nino. We introduced ourselves at the parking lot while having some close looks at Common Murres, Common Loons, Elegant Terns, Eared Grebes and lots of Brown Pelicans on the rocky breaks. The slough and harbor were active with sea lions.
We proceeded to the beach where we could see Marbled Godwits in groups all down the beach with a few Willets, Long Billed Curlews and Sanderlings mixed in. We watched the waves and the skies for more birds. We had more Common Loons, Elegant Terns, Common Murres and a Parasitic Jaeger flying in the distance. As we headed north on the beach we almost stumbled on some Sanderlings, Semipalmated Plovers and Snowy Plovers. We had seen the Black-Bellied Plovers just minutes before so it gave a great demonstration of the size differences seen in Plovers. This would not be our last encounter and the total number of Snowy Plovers was higher than I normally encounter at 32! (Hoping all the conservation work is paying off.) We had a large group of gulls, primarily Heermann's Gulls with a few Western Gulls, and one Ring-billed Gull. Matthew also spotted an American Herring Gull which disappeared quickly. We headed back over to the Jetty Road and made our way over to the wetlands. Along the way we saw a Say's Phoebe (First of Season for me), White-Crowned Sparrows, Lincoln Sparrow, Savannah Sparrow and a couple of Bewick Wrens singing. Near the water were Great Egret, Great Blue Heron, Least Sandpipers and Black-necked Stilts. By the time we got up to the wetland area the tide was pretty high and the Willets and Marbled Godwits were pushed into the pickleweed.
The raptors saved themselves for near the end with a pair of posing White-tailed Kites on snags, Turkey Vultures, and a Northern Harrier. We headed back to the beach to have a second look at many of the birds. We saw the beach covered with what looked to be very small piles of seaweed everywhere we looked. They turned out to be hundreds of resting Least Sandpipers, Western Sandpipers and a few larger Dunlins mixed in.
During the trip we also had Brewer's Blackbirds, American Crows, Snowy Egrets, Western Grebes, Pied-billed Grebes, Brandt's and Double-crested Cormorants with a "no show" for Pelagic Cormorants. There were a few birds only seen by a few such as Pigeon Guillemot, Clark's Grebe. We also saw California Sea Lions, Humpback Whales, dolphins/porpoises (I couldn't ID), and California Sea Otters.
I'd like to thank everyone for participating and helping their fellow birder and especially Matthew.
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: 10/11/26 10:24 am From: Connor Christensen via groups.io <connor.r.christensen...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Williamson's Sapsucker at Loma Prieta
Matthew Dodder and I found a very cooperative female type Williamson's Sapsucker up at Loma Prieta on Summit Road at 37.0934270, -121.8389440 in a pine hanging over the road from the Santa Cruz side. It has spent about 20 minutes foraging in the tree with great views. It's been a great morning so far with Evening Grosbeak and Red Crossbills seen and heard migrating over. There have also been swarms of Varied Thrushes this morning as well.
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: 10/8/26 12:37 pm From: Carter Gasiorowski via groups.io <carter.gasiorowski...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Raptor Migration Spectacle
There is currently a large push of migrating raptors over SCU including a FERRUGINOUS HAWK and a stunning variety of different Red-tailed Hawks. I also saw a very small buteo that may have been a Broad-winged Hawk, but it was too far to be sure. Get outside and look up!
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: 10/7/26 3:56 pm From: Ann Hepenstal via groups.io <annhep...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Osprey at Shoreline
I was out sailing at Shoreline today, and the birds were having a wonderful day: the water was simply sparking with fingerling fish, with huge swarms of fish at the boat launch and near the shore by the boats. Brown Pelicans, a few American White Pelicans, Double-Crested Cormorants, Forster's Terns--were all on patrol in the area (or, resting).
Most notable to me--an Osprey flew over, making loops around the lake. I rarely see Osprey here so I was delighted (the people I tried to point it out to--didn't care.)
Good birding,Ann
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: 10/6/26 10:38 am From: Carter Gasiorowski via groups.io <carter.gasiorowski...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Swinhoe’s White-eye SCU
I just saw a Swinhoe’s White-eye in front of the observatory at Santa Clara University, which seems to be the second county record for Santa Clara County. Swinhoe’s White-eye is currently not countable anywhere in Northern California, but given how this species has rapidly colonized Southern California, I fear it may not be too long before they are common here. Currently, there seem to be very small local populations in San Francisco and possibly Alameda, with other scattered records. While it’s possible this bird is an escapee, I believe it is most likely a dispersant from a population elsewhere in the state. Rajan Rao in his ABA article “Meet the White-eyes!” states that, “ scattered records across the West Coast… likely reflect dispersers from this (Southern California) source population.”
Overall, while this sighting on its own is not particularly notable, I hope that it makes local birders aware so that we can be on the lookout for more Swinhoe’s White-eyes. This species certainly wasn’t on my radar, and even after observing the bird for almost a minute I only realized what it was after reviewing my photos. Given that they often live in suburban areas, it’s possible there could already be a small, recently established population on the valley floor which has so far avoided detection. Especially with the ongoing California Bird Atlas, I hope that everyone can be on the lookout for this bird in their backyards & neighborhoods (learn their call!) so we can continue documenting and learning more about its ongoing expansion.
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: 10/1/26 3:38 pm From: janna pauser via groups.io <jannapauser...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Belted Kingfisher family, late Acorn Woodpecker nesting,
A Belted Kingfisher family was seen at Almaden Reservoir this morning. A
female and 2 young were photographed on the rocks and the male
chattering upstream.
I also came across very late Acorn Woodpecker nesting. I heard the
nestlings call as I passed through the second cattle gate at the New
Almaden entrance to Rancho San Vicente. Adults were feeding a nestling
shown in my poor photos. Also here was a Say's Phoebe, Am. Kestrel, Cal.
Quail, Ruby crowned Kinglet and White crowned Sparrows. Forty Wild
Turkey's were seen feeding in a field.
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: 10/1/26 5:32 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). This includes our monthly notice of signups for the next month's SCVBA *field trips* , and periodic notices of openings in impending trips.
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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: 9/30/26 1:28 pm From: Chris M. via groups.io <chrismac...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Crystal Springs and Ano Nuevo CBCs
Hi Birders,
I’m writing to invite you to participate this year in either or both of San Mateo County’s CBCs.
*Crystal Springs CBC - Saturday, December 19, 2026*
*Ano Nuevo CBC - Saturday, January 2, 2027*
All CBCs are a citizen-science endeavor with the primary goal of counting all individuals of each species of bird detected in a 15 mile diameter circle on a single day.
The *Crystal Springs* count circle stretches from the Bay to the Coast and from Burlingame in the north to Redwood City in the south. *Ano Nuevo* includes the coast and up to Sam McDonald Park and from a piece of Big Basin to San Gregorio Road. The counts include all types of habitats and terrain - some require lots of hiking, some cover areas with lots of redwoods but few birds, some mean you have to know your shorebirds well, some are flat, some strenuous, some urban, with most open space - there is something for everyone.
I’d like to invite you to participate this year. We need all levels of experience, from beginners willing to be tabulators and spotters, to those of you with experience, whether you have counted with us in the past or not.
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: 9/30/26 1:02 pm From: janna pauser via groups.io <jannapauser...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Lewis's Woodpecker, Vasona Lake Park
Vasona Lake Parks circle group area off Garden Hill was birdy this
morning. I met Ozzie there a week ago and he showed me his hybrid
warbler. Today I saw four each male Townsend's Warblers, Yellow-rumped
Warblers, Western Bluebirds, a Brown Creeper and several White breasted
Nuthatch. Attached is a photo of I got of Ozzie's hybrid Townsends,
Yellow rumped Warbler which is still in the area. A Lewis's Woodpecker
flew over and landed in the top of a pine but was backlit. My only photo
was just as it look off flying.
I found a Northern Shoveler and Am. Wigeon on the lake.
I met Susan looking for Garrett Lau's Blackpoll Warbler but the area was
quiet so I left.
A Northern Yellow Warbler has been at out backyard fountain every day
since Sept.11. Yesterday a less common visitor, Orange crowned warbler
was seen. Western Tanagers are heard daily and also come to the fountain.
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: 9/27/26 5:10 pm From: Sergey Pavlov via groups.io <spavlov2000...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] Yellow-throated Vireo at Rengstorff House
Yellow-throated Vireo seen again first by Colin and later a couple others at about 4:25-4:28 pm in the eucalyptus behind the Rengstorff House at (37.4314113, -122.0879216). Main house property still closed for the event and conditions tough due to wind.
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: 9/27/26 11:27 am From: Carter Gasiorowski via groups.io <carter.gasiorowski...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] Yellow-throated Vireo at Rengstorff House
Bird was just refound after a long wait by Dorian Anderson near the original location in the low branches of a cottonwood behind the windmill.
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: 9/27/26 10:40 am From: Ryan L. via groups.io <ryanbirding...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Evening Grosbeak & Blue-headed Vireo - Penitencia Ponds
Hit send too fast. North side of Penetencia Ponds
> On Sep 27, 2026, at 10:38 AM, Ryan L. <ryanbirding...> wrote:
>
> Both seen from 37.39370° N, 121.83641° W
> Photo of grosbeak
>
> BHVI had very blue head, two bright bold wingbars, yellow underneath, broken “spectacles” around eyes
>
> <image0.jpeg>
>
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: 9/27/26 8:40 am From: Carter Gasiorowski via groups.io <carter.gasiorowski...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Yellow-throated Vireo at Rengstorff House
Iris Yuh and I just stumbled across a YELLOW-THROATED VIREO in the cottonwoods next to Rengstorff House at Shoreline at Mountain View now. (37.4315969, -122.0875434)
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: 9/27/26 8:02 am From: Brooke Miller via groups.io <brooke.bam...> Subject: [southbaybirds] AUGUST 2026 Cumulative Bird Report for Santa Clara County
South Bay Birders:
In August we added 4 new countable birds, bringing the total to 273 at the
end of the month. The average for August is 6 new birds, with an average
of 266 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 August:
1. Long-tailed Duck (5), 2026-08-13, seen by Raymond Chu at Alviso Marina
County Park
2. Summer Tanager (5), 2026-08-14, found by Howard Friedman at Lick Mill
Park
3. Common Tern (4), 2026-08-15, seen by multiple observers at Salt Pond A3W
4. Baird's Sandpiper (4), 2026-08-18, found by Will Brooks at Crittenden
Marsh
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: 9/26/26 5:08 pm From: zhouyz2013 via groups.io <zhouyz2013...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Bald eagle at Penitencia Creek Trail
Hi all,
This morning around 11:50 AM, I saw a large bird flying into a conifer tree at the west end of Penitencia Creek Trail (37°23'30.2"N, 121°50'22.0"W). It turned out to be a Bald Eagle when I saw its white tail.
It perched there for a while, then flew toward the east side of the trail and later continued north. When I was about to leave, it appeared again, flying toward the pond. It then flew back north, circling around a large eucalyptus tree beyond the neighborhood.
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.
Deb and I were setting out on our back deck this morning and were delighted to see our first Hermit Thrush of the fall visit our backyard.
Fall is here!
Hugh McDevitt
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: 9/25/26 10:03 am From: Chris Johnson via groups.io <ryanjohnson77...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Hermit Warbler Penitencia Creek Trail
Hi All,
I found a Hermit Warbler at Penitencia Creek Trail yesterday and it was present again today. At least one Black-throated Gray Warbler was along the creek as well.
Location today: 37.391969,-121.836830
Location yesterday: 37.392700,-121.835938
The Hermit certainly has a preference for conifers, but I also had it in oaks and other trees.
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: 9/24/26 10:02 am From: Edward Reed via groups.io <ed.reed3...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Osprey at Gate of Heaven Cemetery
Found an Osprey at Gate Of Heaven Cemetery pond. (Large pond) at about 9AM.
The bird circled a few times, landed at top of a pine then harassed by crows.
Not unusual to see Green Heron or Kingfisher at this site.
After 40 years, first time to see an Osprey at this location.
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: 9/23/26 3:30 pm From: John Harshman via groups.io <john.harshman...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Sierra Vista OSP, September 23
Today Edward Rooks and I led a combined SCVBA/OSA field trip to Sierra Vista OSP. We had good luck with both our target species, seeing two adult and two juvenile *golden eagles* and two *rock wrens*. But the highlight of the trip was probably a single male *phainopepla*. In all, we saw 36 species, including *horned lark* , *rufous-crowned sparrow* , *lark* *sparrow* , *California* *thrasher* , and *white-throated* and *Vaux's swifts* , and a single *tricolored blackbird*.
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: 9/22/26 1:41 pm From: Vicki Silvas-Young via groups.io <mrnngwrblr...> Subject: [southbaybirds] CNPS and SCVBA Field Trip on the First Day of Fall to Lake Cunningham, 9-20-2026, Sunday
Hi, Birders, On a very nice fall day 13 "Yellow Warber hopeful" attendees from California Native Plant Society and Santa Clara Valley Bird Alliance met in the Marina parking lot of Lake Cunningham to walk the Inner Lake Path to the Native Garden. And we were not disappointed! To greet us on the lawn area, was a big flock of unshy Great-tailed Grackles in all sorts of amusing plumage changes with some males even displaying. Near the boat ramp, as we gazed over the water, the antics of Pied-billed Grebes and American Coots, and a Green Heron flyby entertained us. In the trees a Yellow-rumped warbler with our very first Northern Yellow Warbler excited us! There were no Red-breasted Sapsuckers in the pepper trees. :( But just after the pepper trees, we managed to see a silent, stealthy Sora do a quick dash in and out of the cattails. In the little cove before the Native Garden an adult Pied-billed Grebe was being trailed by a juvenile screaming to be fed. The adult obliged just to stop the screaming. As we approached the Native Garden the number of birds picked up with a Northern Mockingbird singing a greeting song, Chestnut-backed Chickadees, Oak Titmouse, California Towhees, Bushtits, House Finches singing and feeding, numerous Anna's Hummingbirds sucking up as much nectar from the California Fuschias as they could, and again another Yellow Warbler who brought his pals, a couple of Red-breasted Nuthatches fed in the trees. A Red-shouldered Hawk called in the distance. Nice! Thank you to my co-leaders, Arvind K. and Nathan D., for comments and guidance in native plant identification. A very special thank you to Zainab J. for being an attentive co-leader and getting people on the bird. The eBird list for this field trip is here https://ebird.org/atlascalifornia/checklist/S394764740 The San Jose Christmas Count is coming soon on December 19, Saturday. Sign up now! Plan ahead, 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: 9/22/26 1:27 pm From: Sirena Lao via groups.io <Sirenalao...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] White faced ibis at Alviso EEC entrance road
For anyone interested, there are currently 4 White-faced Ibises roosting in New Chicago Marsh, visible from the road driving in.
Our team at San Francisco Bay Wildlife Society and US Fish & Wildlife Service first saw them on Saturday, September 19th during our Coastal Cleanup event.
We have the gate open until 1:15pm today for a college field trip!
Sirena
On Mon, Sep 21, 2026, 12:22 Juliana Manoliu via groups.io <manojuli= <comcast.net...> wrote:
> After reading about the Sept. 20 white faced ibis late in the afternoon, > took my chances on Sept. 21 in the morning. > > Driving slowly toward the dirt parking lot saw nothing, but after getting > out of the car, soon 2 *White-faced ibis *flew by and landed nearby. > > Drove back South and found 3 of them feeding next to the road. A truck > drove by and they flew toward the middle of the marsh and within a few > minutes they were gone. > > Juliana Manoliu > > >
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: 9/21/26 12:22 pm From: Juliana Manoliu via groups.io <manojuli...> Subject: [southbaybirds] White faced ibis at Alviso EEC entrance road
After reading about the Sept. 20 white faced ibis late in the afternoon,
took my chances on Sept. 21 in the morning.
Driving slowly toward the dirt parking lot saw nothing, but after
getting out of the car, soon 2 */White-faced ibis /*flew by and landed
nearby.
Drove back South and found 3 of them feeding next to the road. A truck
drove by and they flew toward the middle of the marsh and within a few
minutes they were gone.
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.
