Date: 5/20/24 11:56 am From: Kevin Liberg via groups.io <kvinie...> Subject: Re: [SFBirds] Hooded Warbler Candlestick
Just got a view of it here
(37.7138694, -122.3902984)
On Mon, May 20, 2024 at 11:15 AM liammsf <liammsf...> wrote:
> Still present...singing often. No visuals yet. I don't know the area well
> so I followed the paved path and I can't see into the eucalyptus canopy
> where the song is coming from.
>
> Sound source is:
> 37.713596,-122.389843
>
> Not sure if there is a better way to access.
>
> Amazing find Kevin!!
>
> Liam Murphy
>
> On Mon, May 20, 2024, 10:35 AM Kevin Liberg via groups.io <kvinie=
> <gmail.com...> wrote:
>
>> Was just singing from Eula here
>> (37.7147850, -122.3909807)
>>
>>
>>
Date: 5/20/24 11:16 am From: Liam Murphy via groups.io <liammsf...> Subject: Re: [SFBirds] Hooded Warbler Candlestick
Still present...singing often. No visuals yet. I don't know the area well
so I followed the paved path and I can't see into the eucalyptus canopy
where the song is coming from.
Sound source is:
37.713596,-122.389843
Not sure if there is a better way to access.
Amazing find Kevin!!
Liam Murphy
On Mon, May 20, 2024, 10:35 AM Kevin Liberg via groups.io <kvinie=
<gmail.com...> wrote:
> Was just singing from Eula here
> (37.7147850, -122.3909807)
>
>
Date: 5/20/24 10:01 am From: esther cooperman via groups.io <ecooperman...> Subject: [SFBirds] Possible bald eagle over Cole Valley this morning
Good morning!
I saw a possible bald eagle at around 9:25 this morning. Â I live at Shrader and Grattan and was looking out my west facing window towards Stanyan when I spotted a hawk-like bird with a very obvious white head. Â By the time I ran to get my binoculars it was too far away to get a better look and it was heading north and east. Â I did not notice a white tail to my naked eye, but its white head really stood out.
Date: 5/18/24 11:38 am From: Aaron Maizlish via groups.io <amm.birdlists...> Subject: [SFBirds] Bank and Northern Rough-winged Swallows
If any of you have ever struggled to separate the two in the field, good numbers of both are flying around the hill slope at the south end of Fort Funston right now. The NRWS are perching and vocalizing, the Banks have been mostly aerial - I wonder if they are gathering for nests. Good chance to compare and contrast.
Date: 5/16/24 3:59 pm From: Adam Winer via groups.io <awiner...> Subject: [SFBirds] Yellow-breasted Chat, Ferry Park 5/16
Early this afternoon, Simo Westley found a Yellow-breasted Chat at Ferry Park in the cherry trees atop the hill near Davis Street.
I walked over there, and though it took 90 minutes, it finally gave a bit of song and I saw it shortly thereafter high in a poplar at the northeast corner of the hill.
This is, at least, per eBird, the first Chat for the park. In addition to *that* park first, I found a first-spring male Lazuli Bunting, also a first (per eBird). Buntings are really scarce in this corner of the city! A Western Wood-Pewee rounded out the small selection of afternoon migrants.
Date: 5/14/24 12:48 pm From: David Assmann via groups.io <david_assmann...> Subject: [SFBirds] Dusky Flycatcher at Fort Mason
A DUSKY FLYCATCHER was sitting in a Cypress in the Battery at Fort Mason this morning around 11 making whit calls. It flew around to the back of the Cypress and then flew west out of sight. WESTERN TANAGERS moved through all morning - I counted at least 16. A YELLOW WARBLER was in the Cul de Sac.
Date: 5/14/24 11:06 am From: Adam Winer via groups.io <awiner...> Subject: [SFBirds] Olive-sided Flycatcher singing while flying?
I just had an Olive-sided Flycatcher above my backyard. That's a little unusual (only my second for the yard), but what was really odd for me is that it was giving both its quick-three-beers song and pip-pip-pip calls while flying up high. Just a little dot in the sky, really, like a skylark! I heard it several times before it moved off.
"Male usually sings from top of tree or snag, often tallest in the area. Usually 1-3 regularly used song perches within territory (BA). Male will sing or call from nest tree anytime during reproductive period. Female will call from anywhere, including on nest while incubating or brooding."
... which aligns entirely with how I've experienced Olive-sided Flycatcher vocalizations before now.
Nothing against the Double-crested Cormorants... In fact I love seeing them flying in groups of hanging out with their wings spread out. But it's nice to see a Brandt's for a change, kayaking down Islais Creek yesterday.
Date: 5/11/24 5:55 pm From: Daniel Scali via groups.io <daniel.s.scali...> Subject: Re: [SFBirds] Possible Eastern Phoebe on Mnt. Davidson.
EASTERN PHOEBE continues circular tail wagging 200 m north of cypresses at base of hill of Nina’s gps coords. Near backyards.  A very gray CASSINS/PLUMBEOUS VIREO was also in the cypresses.
On 5/11/2024 3:26 PM, Sally M. Walters wrote:
> Where is the link to the photo?
>
> Sally M. Walters
> <bajaowl...>
>
>
>
>> On May 11, 2024, at 3:04 PM, Dominik Mosur via groups.io
>> <dominikmosur...> wrote:
>>
>> After reviewing more photos from several observers (Nico, Erica
>> Harris , Nina Bai) and consulting with some of my colleagues it is
>> clear that the bird reported by Nico earlier is in fact an EASTERN
>> PHOEBE.
>>
>> Great find. I believe this is only the second spring record for Mount
>> Davidson, with Paul Saraceni reporting the first in June a decade or
>> two back.
>>
>> What else is out there??
>>
>> DM
>>
>>> On May 11, 2024, at 09:12, Nico Stuurman via groups.io
>>> <nico...> wrote:
>>>
>>> 
>>> Sorry, looks like it is a Willow Flycatcher.
>>>
>>>
>>> Happy birding!
>>>
>>>
>>> Nico
>>>
>>>
>>> On May 11, 2024 9:03:06 AM PDT, Nico Stuurman
>>> <nico...> wrote:
>>>
>>> 37.738592,-122.452078
>>>
>>> Phoebe like flycatcher with short black bill white front, stark
>>> contrast between nape and throat wagging tail down the up.
>>> Believe this to be an Eastern Phoebe, have photos.
>>>
>>> Best,
>>>
>>>
>>> Nico
>>>
>>> --
>>> Nico Stuurman
>>>
>>> --
>>> Nico Stuurman
>>>
>>> --
>>> Nico Stuurman
>
>
Date: 5/11/24 3:27 pm From: Sally M. Walters via groups.io <bajaowl...> Subject: Re: [SFBirds] Possible Eastern Phoebe on Mnt. Davidson.
Where is the link to the photo?
Sally M. Walters
<bajaowl...>
> On May 11, 2024, at 3:04 PM, Dominik Mosur via groups.io <dominikmosur...> wrote:
>
> After reviewing more photos from several observers (Nico, Erica Harris , Nina Bai) and consulting with some of my colleagues it is clear that the bird reported by Nico earlier is in fact an EASTERN PHOEBE.
>
> Great find. I believe this is only the second spring record for Mount Davidson, with Paul Saraceni reporting the first in June a decade or two back.
>
> What else is out there??
>
> DM
>
>> On May 11, 2024, at 09:12, Nico Stuurman via groups.io <nico...> wrote:
>>
>> 
>> Sorry, looks like it is a Willow Flycatcher.
>>
>>
>> Happy birding!
>>
>>
>> Nico
>>
>>
>> On May 11, 2024 9:03:06 AM PDT, Nico Stuurman <nico...> wrote:
>>> 37.738592,-122.452078
>>>
>>> Phoebe like flycatcher with short black bill white front, stark contrast between nape and throat wagging tail down the up. Believe this to be an Eastern Phoebe, have photos.
>>>
>>> Best,
>>>
>>>
>>> Nico
>>>
>>> --
>>> Nico Stuurman
>>>
>>> --
>>> Nico Stuurman
>>
>> --
>> Nico Stuurman
>
>
Date: 5/11/24 2:01 pm From: Dominik Mosur via groups.io <dominikmosur...> Subject: [SFBirds] more migration notes 5/10 and 5/11/24
After May 9th BIG MIGRANT FLIGHT I continued to visit Mount Davidson the past two mornings curious how the migrant numbers/diversity were shaping up:
on Friday (5)/10 of note were :
Empidonax sp. - no song fragment like the morning before but two separate instances of "whit" calls at the base of ravine/above LaBica heard. At the time I considered Dusky/Gray as possibles, but with Nico's discovery of the Willow Flycatcher today this offers another possibility
European Starlings - 4 birds together south early, may have been post-breeding dispersers. why include Starling in this report? Formerly a much more common bird in SF it seems have become much more localized as a breeder , especially on the west side of SF and not often seen from Mount Davidson in Spring.
MacGillivray's Warbler - at the LaBica trailhead, rare but regular in spring, this species can be incredibly skulky and unless you come across a singing male can be difficult to detect if the observer is unfamiliar with the call note
Yellow Warbler - 3+ singing migrants early in the a.m., conspicuously absent the previous day during the big flight, (possibly just missed but also shows can waves of migrating species can vary day to day as well as how having multiple observers at a spot increases the chance of seeing more diversity)
CLAY-COLORED SPARROW - the aforementioned bird first spotted and identified by Erica Harris, amazingly the second spring record for SF this year. This looks like it could be a first spring record for Mount Davidson, although I'm having trouble believing it's the first ever despite lack of eBird records. (figure someone must've seen a Clay-c up here at least once before in fall)
Red Crossbills - a group of 7 landing briefly in the top of the hill/eukes before continuing north
Great-tailed Grackle - a group of 4 males flying northeast at 7:23, also an apparent first for Mount D
For those keeping track of breeding activity I found it interesting and amusing when in the late afternoon of 5/8 I pulled up to my residence in time to see a Rock Pigeon pick up a piece of wilted kale leaf from the planter on the street and fly with it into the awning above the gas station across the street. Throughout the past few years my wife or I have often seen a Cooper's Hawk dash into the structure, flushing/and sometimes successfully capturing a Rock Pigeon. The pigeons remain undettered.
Date: 5/11/24 9:12 am From: Nico Stuurman via groups.io <nico...> Subject: Re: [SFBirds] Possible Eastern Phoebe on Mnt. Davidson.
Sorry, looks like it is a Willow Flycatcher.
Happy birding!
Nico
On May 11, 2024 9:03:06 AM PDT, Nico Stuurman <nico...> wrote:
>37.738592,-122.452078
>
>Phoebe like flycatcher with short black bill white front, stark contrast between nape and throat wagging tail down the up. Believe this to be an Eastern Phoebe, have photos.
>
>Best,
>
>
>Nico
>
>--
>Nico Stuurman
>
>
>--
>Nico Stuurman
--
Nico Stuurman
Date: 5/11/24 9:03 am From: Nico Stuurman via groups.io <nico...> Subject: [SFBirds] Possible Eastern Phoebe on Mnt. Davidson.
37.738592,-122.452078
Phoebe like flycatcher with short black bill white front, stark contrast between nape and throat wagging tail down the up. Believe this to be an Eastern Phoebe, have photos.
Date: 5/10/24 4:54 pm From: David Assmann via groups.io <david_assmann...> Subject: [SFBirds] Fort Mason Local Interest
A good cross section of western migrants were at Fort Mason this morning, including 10 WESTERN TANAGERS, 5 WILSON'S WARBLERS, 2 WESTERN KINGBIRDS, 2 WESTERN WOOD-PEWEES, 2 WARBLING VIREOS, 2 BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAKS, 1 LAZULI BUNTING, 1 COMMON YELLOWTHROAT, 1 YELLOW-RUMPED WARBLER, 1 YELLOW WARBLER, 1 OLIVE-SIDED FLYCATCHER and 1 BLUE GRAY GNATCATCHER. An ACORN WOODPECKER and an OSPREY also passed over. WESTERN BLUEBIRDS and HOODED ORIOLES have fledged.
Date: 5/10/24 12:40 pm From: William Grant via groups.io <wbgrant...> Subject: [SFBirds] Blackbirds at Lafayette Park
Hi
Trimming the trees on Clay St. just E of Gough (E of Lafayette Park) in 2021
Just looked at data from the map associated with the bar chart for LP:
7 June 2019 (Richard Bradus posting)
Brewer's Blackbird 8
DetailsMultiple recent fledglings begging and (occasionally) being fed.
8 April 2020
Brewer's Blackbird 10
Details4 at their usual nesting site top of Clay St.
My post of 29 May 2021
Brewer's Blackbird 14Number observed:
DetailsThe trees with nests on Clay St. seem to have been pruned of their lower branches recently
The numbers dropped to about 8 for the next month or so
Not clear how many nests there were
5 April 2022
10 Brewer's Blackbirds10
DetailsSome near the nesting site on Clay near Gough
In 2023 - perhaps 4-6
2024 - 4-7, perhaps 2-3 pairs nesting
Bill
-----Original Message-----
From: <khillan...>
Sent: May 10, 2024 11:06 AM
To: SF Birds <sfbirds...>
Subject: [SFBirds] More on migration and birds - hoping this is an appropriate post for this list (feel free to ignore if you only use for bird sightings)
96Thanks to Eli for the inspiring summary of the bird sightings at Battery Godfrey. It was a joy to join such an expert group of birdwatchers yesterday, and to experience the breathtaking spectacle of spring migration in full swing.
I encourage all of us to share our springtime birding adventures not only within our community but also with friends and family who might not be as immersed in birdwatching. For instance, I was discussing my day with friends on my swim team last night and during our conversation, it prompted one team member to mention that he had found a dead bird that morning, sadly a Western Tanager (image attached), that had collided with his apartment at the intersection of Clay and Larkin. This serves as a reminder of the hazards birds face during migration. Inspired by initiatives in New York City, where changes have been made to protect migrating birds, I believe we can continue to do more here in San Francisco to safeguard our feathered visitors. More information on NYC's efforts can be found here: NYC Migrating Birds and Night Lights (https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/sep/07/nyc-migrating-birds-night-lights-architecture).
In the UK, the Bird Track app has been invaluable for reporting bird fatalities, aiding in the monitoring of issues like avian influenza. Unfortunately, eBird currently only accepts reports of live bird sightings. If you think it would be beneficial for eBird to include a feature / toggle for reporting deceased birds, please share feedback with the Cornell team at <gws...> & <ebird...>
Lastly, I'd like to reflect on a peculiar observation. While swimming at the Bay Club Gateway, near Sue Bierman Park, I've noticed an absence of Brewer’s Blackbirds this year—typically, there are at least 20 nesting pairs in the hedging around the club. It's concerning not to see them, and I thought it worth mentioning in case others have noticed a similar pattern.
Your post is completely appropriate: thank you for sharing the news on apparent localized decline of breeding Brewer's Blackbird.
Brewer's Blackbird numbers actually appear to be down statewide from what I've seen, read and heard from other observers. According to some sources as much as 90%.
In San Francisco the story is the same and should come as no surprise. At one time Brewer's Blackbirds were common nesting birds even in places like street and parking lot trees along Market street. I recall in the early 2000s seeing parents swooping on the heads of shocked passersby in front of the Safeway there
. in the Non-breeding season it was routine to see flocks numbering in the 100-200 range in Golden Gate Park, Crissy Field and smaller numbers 10-50 in smaller parks.
What's changed? I suspect a number of factors are in play:
an increase in predators (American Crow numbers have increased 5-15 times in the same span, Cooper's Hawks are now common a widespread nesters whereas in the early 0's they were localized and scarce)
the continuing practice of trimming up trees and clearing weedy sites that might serve as nesting and foraging habitat in the heart of the breeding season. I've seen this occur a number of times over the years at edges of golf course in the Lake Merced area and in Golden Gate Park
Thanks for noting it.
For what it's worth , my wife sent me a picture this morning of a female Brewer's Blackbird carrying nesting material at Pine Lake. They did not nest there last year but did nest close by (Lakershore shopping plaza). I have not had the chance to yet evaluate if this is good news and result of a localized population expansion or if someone chopped down their nesting areas from last year and forced a dispersal.
Date: 5/10/24 12:00 pm From: Brian Fitch via groups.io <fogeggs...> Subject: Re: [SFBirds] Solitaire
I just spent 45 minutes at Buena Vista Park, bathing in the song of
Cassin’s Vireo, a species that had been eluding me thus far this year.
There was a minimum of four, three singing, with one singing so fast and
without phrases that I had to consider a vagrant of some sort, but it was
Cassin’s. I didn’t even cover the entire hill, but settled in to enjoy the
birds in the north slope oaks just below the viewpoint facing downtown.
Also present were Olive-sided and Western Flycatchers, Warbling Vireos, and
more warblers, tanagers, buntings, and grosbeaks.
After yesterday’s amazing flight, I wish we could know how many unusual
species are still in town today, and how many individuals of the more
expectable species.
Brian Fitch
On Fri, May 10, 2024 at 10:25 AM Brian Fitch <fogeggs...> wrote:
> Throw in a flyby White-breasted Nuthatch. It emerged from the euc forest,
> passed me at the edge of the ravine and flew off the hill northbound. I
> believe it’s a first for me at this site.
> Brian Fitch
>
> On Fri, May 10, 2024 at 8:55 AM Brian Fitch <fogeggs...> wrote:
>
>> And a Townsend’s Solitaire just spent a few minutes at Mt Davidson before
>> heading north. Many Lazulis and other regular westerners up here.
>> Brian Fitch
>>
>
> On May 10, 2024, at 7:41 AM, Liam Murphy via groups.io <liammsf...> wrote:
>
> The bird left the tallest pines flying west. I am not sure if it remained on the hill. The migrant show is still great here today.
>
> On Fri, May 10, 2024, 7:35 AM Liam Murphy via groups.io <http://groups.io/> <liammsf...> <mailto:<gmail.com...>> wrote:
> There is a Lewis's Woodpecker active in the tallest pines on the Bernal Hill summit.
>
> Let the good times roll!
>
> Liam Murphy
>
>
>
Date: 5/10/24 11:06 am From: Kenneth Hillan via groups.io <khillan...> Subject: [SFBirds] More on migration and birds - hoping this is an appropriate post for this list (feel free to ignore if you only use for bird sightings)
Thanks to Eli for the inspiring summary of the bird sightings at Battery Godfrey. It was a joy to join such an expert group of birdwatchers yesterday, and to experience the breathtaking spectacle of spring migration in full swing.
I encourage all of us to share our springtime birding adventures not only within our community but also with friends and family who might not be as immersed in birdwatching. For instance, I was discussing my day with friends on my swim team last night and during our conversation, it prompted one team member to mention that he had found a dead bird that morning, sadly a Western Tanager (image attached), that had collided with his apartment at the intersection of Clay and Larkin. This serves as a reminder of the hazards birds face during migration. Inspired by initiatives in New York City, where changes have been made to protect migrating birds, I believe we can continue to do more here in San Francisco to safeguard our feathered visitors. More information on NYC's efforts can be found here: NYC Migrating Birds and Night Lights.
|
|
|
| | |
|
|
|
| |
New York’s plan to save birds from crashing into buildings: lights out
Legislation aims to dim the city’s night-time lights that pose a threat to millions of migratory birds passing t...
|
|
|
In the UK, the Bird Track app has been invaluable for reporting bird fatalities, aiding in the monitoring of issues like avian influenza. Unfortunately, eBird currently only accepts reports of live bird sightings. If you think it would be beneficial for eBird to include a feature / toggle for reporting deceased birds, please share feedback with the Cornell team at <gws...> & <ebird...>
Lastly, I'd like to reflect on a peculiar observation. While swimming at the Bay Club Gateway, near Sue Bierman Park, I've noticed an absence of Brewer’s Blackbirds this year—typically, there are at least 20 nesting pairs in the hedging around the club. It's concerning not to see them, and I thought it worth mentioning in case others have noticed a similar pattern.
Date: 5/10/24 10:25 am From: Brian Fitch via groups.io <fogeggs...> Subject: Re: [SFBirds] Solitaire
Throw in a flyby White-breasted Nuthatch. It emerged from the euc forest,
passed me at the edge of the ravine and flew off the hill northbound. I
believe it’s a first for me at this site.
Brian Fitch
On Fri, May 10, 2024 at 8:55 AM Brian Fitch <fogeggs...> wrote:
> And a Townsend’s Solitaire just spent a few minutes at Mt Davidson before
> heading north. Many Lazulis and other regular westerners up here.
> Brian Fitch
>
Date: 5/10/24 8:55 am From: Brian Fitch via groups.io <fogeggs...> Subject: [SFBirds] Solitaire
And a Townsend’s Solitaire just spent a few minutes at Mt Davidson before
heading north. Many Lazulis and other regular westerners up here.
Brian Fitch
Date: 5/10/24 8:48 am From: Kenneth Hillan via groups.io <khillan...> Subject: [SFBirds] Warbling Vireo and Black-headed Grosebeak at Seward St mini park
Date: 5/10/24 8:23 am From: Daniel Scali via groups.io <daniel.s.scali...> Subject: [SFBirds] MacGillivray’s at McLaren
Surprise, it’s super skulky. Nice breeding plumage individual. Kevin Liberg
confirmed it was singing. Not far from Baltimore Oriole spot. Far enough
away from tree cutting noise. (37.7206043, -122.4190104)
Date: 5/9/24 11:15 pm From: Eli Gross via groups.io <a.eli.gross...> Subject: [SFBirds] Incredible Flight Day at Battery Godfrey 5/9
Hello all,
As has been mentioned already by others it was an incredible migration day throughout SF as well as the greater Bay Area due to the perfect flight conditions for spring migration (Ne winds and warm weather). However, as no one has summarized the incredible flight witnessed at Battery Godfrey I figured I'd do so.
There was a large crowd at the Battery today, 20-25 birders in total, and the extra sets of eyes definitely contributed to the many rarities seen in addition to the sheer volume of birds counted. The flight began in force shortly after 6 am with a large push of warblers and Lazuli Buntings heading directly northeast into the wind over the battery and didn't let up in any way until around 9 am when warbler numbers began to drop off considerably. During this three hour stretch warbler and bunting flight calls were ubiquitous. No matter what direction you turned you were likely to see small groups of passerines in flight to the north/north-east. A particularly impressive phenomenon began to take place over the Golden Gate Bridge toll plaza as migrants began to stack up rather than cross the gate to the north. In a reverse migration, birds began to swirl back inland or drop into the cypresses at the toll plaza resulting in a swirling mass of passerines in flight. A quick scan in that direction would yield views of a few hundred birds at once at times, and even though most weren't always identifiable to species from that distance, to simply see such a concentration of migrants in flight was spectacular.
While warbler numbers began to drop off at 9 am, buntings continued in force and kingbirds and tanagers began to increase in numbers considerably. These three species were still trickling through in concentrations that would be notable for the battery on any "normal" day until well after I had to leave around 1230. There was a decent push of raptors from 1115 to 1145, and later in the afternoon as well, primarily Red-tails, Turkey Vultures, and Sharp-shinned Hawks. Additionally, while waterbirds were not the focus today, there were good concentrations of cormorants, gulls, pelicans, and terns feeding in small frenzies in the channel throughout the morning.
Below are some of the highlights and notable high counts:
* 32 Black Swift. groups of 2, 4, 12, and 14 affording great views
* 17 Purple Martin
* 1 gorgeous male Evening Grosbeak spotted by Logan
* 1 Solitary Sandpiper spotted by Lucas Stephenson and seen well by all
* 2 Broad-winged Hawks
* 1 Swainson's Hawk
* 1 Townsend's Solitaire spotted by Josiah
* roughly 30 Red Crossbills. a group of 2, 22 and finally 3 in the large cypress. The group of 3 as well as the larger group of 22 we tentatively identified as type 4 due to the uplsurred call notes they were giving, as well as a "whit" like note reminiscent of an empid "whit" in quality. But we will review recordings to confirm
* 2 Common Terns seen heading into the gate initially spotted by Lucas Stephenson
* 957 Lazuli Bunting
* 694 Western Kingbird
* 512 Western Tanagers
* 383 Townsend's Warblers
* 7 species of Swallow
* roughly 6k passerine migrants in total, which is likely a somewhat conservative tally
Date: 5/9/24 10:34 pm From: Liam Murphy via groups.io <liammsf...> Subject: Re: [SFBirds] DUSKY FLYCATCHER in Glen Canyon
I was remiss to not acknowledge that I had lots of help in analyzing my photos of the flycatcher to arrive at the Dusky ID. I should also acknowledge that my experience at the Battery today was made way better thanks to the knowledge and superior birding ability of everyone else present. Today was a great day for the whole birding community.
Thanks all!
Liam
> On May 9, 2024, at 10:08 PM, Liam Murphy via groups.io <liammsf...> wrote:
>
> Hi SF Birders,
>
> While the main story of the day was certainly the INSANE flight day at Battery Godfrey, when I left there I wasn’t ready to come down from that high, so I headed to Glen Canyon to see what interesting birds may have dropped in. I spent several productive hours there, highlights detailed below.
>
> In fading light, I heard an interesting ‘whit’ call and found an empid under the canopy of some small oaks. I took a number of photos which help confirm that the bird is a Dusky Flycatcher. It stayed low to the ground and was actually quite confiding. The stand of oaks was high up on the grassy slope, generally near Christopher Playground. Hopefully this bird will stick around overnight for someone to refind.
> Coordinates: 37.743509,-122.442236
>
> The DUFL was one of the last birds I saw this evening. Earlier in my visit, many of the species that were seen in high numbers elsewhere in the city today were apparent here as well. Particularly impressive were no fewer than 19 LAZULI BUNTING all over the grassy slopes with many singing. Other migrants included 2 WESTERN KINGBIRD and an OLIVE-SIDED FLYCATCHER, a WARBLING VIREO, one each of YELLOW and TOWNSEND’S WARBLER, 10 WESTERN TANAGERS, and a BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAK. Also unusual at this location was an AMERICAN GOLDFINCH.
>
> Other interesting observations from confirmed or potential breeders included: CHESTNUT-BACKED CHICKADEE (feeding young), BEWICK’S WREN (begging young), SONG SPARROW (begging young), WILSON’S WARBLER (multiple singing, 14 overall), ALLEN’S HUMMINGBIRDS (displaying males) and SWAINSON’S THRUSH (4 total, 1 singing).
>
> Today was a really unforgettable birding day, and I was glad to share it with many familiar faces. I wish everyone great birding as peak spring continues.
>
> Cheers,
> Liam Murphy
>
>
>
>
Date: 5/9/24 10:08 pm From: Liam Murphy via groups.io <liammsf...> Subject: [SFBirds] DUSKY FLYCATCHER in Glen Canyon
Hi SF Birders,
While the main story of the day was certainly the INSANE flight day at Battery Godfrey, when I left there I wasn’t ready to come down from that high, so I headed to Glen Canyon to see what interesting birds may have dropped in. I spent several productive hours there, highlights detailed below.
In fading light, I heard an interesting ‘whit’ call and found an empid under the canopy of some small oaks. I took a number of photos which help confirm that the bird is a Dusky Flycatcher. It stayed low to the ground and was actually quite confiding. The stand of oaks was high up on the grassy slope, generally near Christopher Playground. Hopefully this bird will stick around overnight for someone to refind.
Coordinates: 37.743509,-122.442236
The DUFL was one of the last birds I saw this evening. Earlier in my visit, many of the species that were seen in high numbers elsewhere in the city today were apparent here as well. Particularly impressive were no fewer than 19 LAZULI BUNTING all over the grassy slopes with many singing. Other migrants included 2 WESTERN KINGBIRD and an OLIVE-SIDED FLYCATCHER, a WARBLING VIREO, one each of YELLOW and TOWNSEND’S WARBLER, 10 WESTERN TANAGERS, and a BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAK. Also unusual at this location was an AMERICAN GOLDFINCH.
Other interesting observations from confirmed or potential breeders included: CHESTNUT-BACKED CHICKADEE (feeding young), BEWICK’S WREN (begging young), SONG SPARROW (begging young), WILSON’S WARBLER (multiple singing, 14 overall), ALLEN’S HUMMINGBIRDS (displaying males) and SWAINSON’S THRUSH (4 total, 1 singing).
Today was a really unforgettable birding day, and I was glad to share it with many familiar faces. I wish everyone great birding as peak spring continues.
Date: 5/9/24 4:28 pm From: Dominik Mosur via groups.io <dominikmosur...> Subject: [SFBirds] Mount Davidson migration event 5/9/24
This morning I watched for diurnal migrants on Mount Davidson starting right at sunrise (~6:05) for about 2.5 hrs. Conditions were ideal for a big flight, Northeast breeze (7-15 mph, b2-b4) clear skies, and warm 60-68oF. movement was apparent from the start, many birds went unidentified to species. For events such as this having a couple of people (or more) really helps in keeping tallies, I suspect the numbers below are just a portion of what was actually moving through
Below is a few of the notables:
Empidonax sp. - (Gray/Dusky/Hammond's) an unseen bird gave single verse of song right after sunrise, but I never got a look, presumably continued on
Western (Pac-slope) Flycatcher - 3 birds were countersinging/calling at the X, nesting here is possible/they breed not far away at Glen Canyon
Olive-sided Flycatcher - 4, a pair of birds hanging out/interacting in the Bowl/Ravine area continued plus at least a couple of obvious diurnal migrants on the move
Western Wood-pewee - 3+
Western Kingbird - amazingly only one
Cassin's Vireo - 2+
Warbling Vireo - 12+ , almost certainly a severe undercount
Red-breasted Nuthatch - 3+ , diurnal migrants and probably an undercount
Golden-crowned Sparrow - getting on the late side, first one I've noted since around 4/29
Brewer's Blackbird - m and female north at 6:44 at over 1000' elevation, rarely noted from Mount D.
Orange-crowned Warbler - 4, I suspect these are local breeders as opposed to migrants, furtively foraging in the same areas where I've been observing possible nesters since late March
Wilson's Warbler - 20+, _chryseola_ ssp. nest here and have been on territories since early April, today numbers were heavily bolstered by apparent migrants
Warbler sp. - 53, unidentified to species, most of the Townsend's/Hermit variety
Western Tanagers - 106, a careful tally, largest grouping 18, still likely an severe undercount
Black-headed Grosbeak - 6+
Lazuli Bunting - 35+, largest grouping 8
Passerine sp. - 27, unidentifed non-warblers, including a possible Chat that gave a brief call series from the scrub but never piped up again
Also a belated breeding note, on 4/26 there was a recently fledged Northern Mockingbird being fed by parents on Corona Hill. The earliest dates for nearby counties for fledged mockingbird I could find were 5/9 for San Mateo and 4/19 for Santa Clara (SCL Breeding Bird Atals/Bousman)
Date: 5/9/24 1:48 pm From: fortierborden via groups.io <fortierborden...> Subject: [SFBirds] Likely Yellow-Breasted Chat in Lands End
Heads-up that I am pretty sure I had a Yellow-breasted Chat this morning at Land's End, here: (37.7828355, -122.5117959)
It was intermittently very noisy, but consistently skulky, deep in a bushy, brambly spot east of the path up from the main parking lot, just past the trail sign.  I made two passes by it, hearing its medley of calls -- chortles, whistles, chitterings -- both times.
Recording below (with a Coast Guard helicopter and raven in the mix, sorry!)
Date: 5/9/24 11:32 am From: Adam Winer via groups.io <awiner...> Subject: Re: [SFBirds] Flight this morning
I tried out my home's roof (Inner Sunset neighborhood) to see if I could
catch some of that movement. Nothing like what I've heard from Battery
Godfrey (they'll chime in with their morning), but there was more happening
than usual. Over 2+ hours, the highlight was 4 Western Kingbirds (another
yard bird), 1 Black-headed Grosbeak, 2 Western Tanagers, 2 Hooded Orioles,
and 7 Turkey Vultures. Cedar Waxwings were swarming around most of the
morning, with at least one flock of ~120. No swifts of any sort,
unfortunately.
-- Adam Winer
On Thu, May 9, 2024 at 6:32 AM Dominik Mosur via groups.io <dominikmosur=
<gmail.com...> wrote:
> For anyone who didn’t happen to check recent sightings from yesterday
> there is a very good flight of migrants coming through our area right now.
> Elevated positions with a hood wide view of the sky should be productive on
> both sides of SFBay.
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> Good luck,
>
> Dominik Mosur
> San Francisco
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Date: 5/9/24 9:15 am From: Loretta via groups.io <lchen89...> Subject: [SFBirds] Birdy on strawberry hill
Ken called me over to strawberry hill. It has been very birdy.. Â
Flocks of lazuli buntings, Western Tanagers, Townsends, a couple warbling vireos, and a rose breasted grosbeak. Â
Date: 5/8/24 7:41 pm From: David Assmann via groups.io <david_assmann...> Subject: [SFBirds] Western Migrants at Fort Mason
A decent showing of migrants at Fort Mason this morning (but not nearly as good as Battery Godfrey and a slightly different mix of species) Highlights were at least 11 WESTERN TANAGERS, 2 singing BLACK- HEADED GROSBEAKS. a BULLOCK’S ORIOLE, a WESTERN WOOD PEWEE, a VAUX’S SWIFT, and 4 HOODED ORIOLES.
Date: 5/8/24 8:17 am From: Liam Murphy via groups.io <liammsf...> Subject: Re: [SFBirds] Black Swifts,Purple Martins- Battery Godfrey
Liam from Mt Davidson** not Bernal. Still waiting for Black swift in the
home patch!
Good diversity of migrants up here today, although in low numbers.
Definitely a good day (& week) to spend as much time birding as possible!
Liam Murphy
On Wed, May 8, 2024, 8:01 AM Keith Maley via groups.io <keith.maley=
<gmail.com...> wrote:
> At least 3 Black Swift and lots of Vaux’s and 2 Purple Martin. Eli reports
> Black Swift from Strawberry Hill and Liam from Bernal. Lots of other
> migrants moving. Look up!
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Date: 5/8/24 8:01 am From: Keith Maley via groups.io <keith.maley...> Subject: [SFBirds] Black Swifts,Purple Martins- Battery Godfrey
At least 3 Black Swift and lots of Vaux’s and 2 Purple Martin. Eli reports Black Swift from Strawberry Hill and Liam from Bernal. Lots of other migrants moving. Look up!
Date: 5/7/24 6:40 pm From: Roberta Guise via groups.io <roberta...> Subject: [SFBirds] Great Horned Owls calling in Glen Park
So moments before midnight Monday, 6 May and for about 10 minutes afterwards, a female and male Great Horned Owl were duet calling, sometimes overlapping. They were likely in tall trees on a property bordering Poppy Lane east of Diamond.
We hear them in late fall/winter. Is this normal for early May? It's a first for us in GP at this time of year.
Date: 5/7/24 12:52 pm From: Brian Fitch via groups.io <fogeggs...> Subject: [SFBirds] Jaegers & Pipits
Another morning at the Sutro Baths brought me a late Pomerine and an early
Parasitic Jaeger, late and early by my historical standards.
The Pom passed by around 6:45, showing nearly black and white contrast,
with a full dark breast band and vent. It flew north without stopping to
bother anyone.
As soon as I turned my scope back southward, I found the Parasitic
harassing terns, which made the lighter brown plumage, weak breast band,
and paler vent quite visible. It headed off to the south.
Later on, I spotted a passerine flying north over North Rock, and as I
scoped it, the bird turned toward me and flew toward the Gate, revealing
itself as an American Pipit, an unusual species for this site. I didn’t
see it turn back, but 15 minutes later, a pipit flew the same path over the
same rock before turning southwest over the open ocean.
Other migrants included 40+ Pacific Loons, a few flocks of distant peeps or
phalaropes, and over 100 Bonaparte’s Gulls.
A stop at Buena Vista Park on the way home turned up at least 4 singing
Warbling Vireos, a Western Tanager, and a long staying White-throated
Sparrow.
Brian Fitch
Date: 5/7/24 10:33 am From: Kenneth Hillan via groups.io <khillan...> Subject: [SFBirds] Bay Birding Challenge April 27th
Planning your strategy for next year's Bay Birding Challenge?  I downloaded and analyzed the compiled eBird trip reports for the following teams from Faint Lake: Tactical Shrike Force, Tanager Managers, Righteous Roadrunners, Devil Mountain Quail, and Bird Your Enthusiasm (thanks to all teams for sharing trip reports).  Sharing some of the summary data at the bottom:
In addition to a fun and successful birding day, the participants and generous donors raised over $40,000 for the Golden Gate Bird Alliance (GGBA)!  There is still an opportunity to participate in GGBA’s Birdathon Auction, featuring a variety of prizes, including birding excursions to southeastern Arizona, the Colorado Rockies, NYC's Central Park, Portland, Mendocino, Monterey Peninsula, Bodega Bay, and San Francisco, led by local experts volunteering for GGBA. Please take a look, and share with birding friends, at Adventure Auction for Birdathon 2024 to view and bid on any of the items. The auction is open through May 20th and proceeds provide support for our avian friends through GGBA's educational programs, habitat restoration, and conservation advocacy.
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Adventure Auction for Birdathon 2024
Silent auction 'Adventure Auction for Birdathon 2024' hosted online at 32auctions.
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Bay Birding Challenge unique species by location:
The majority of the birding took place in Alameda and Contra Costa counties. The Righteous Roadrunners and Devil Mountain Quail observed birds in San Francisco mainly during the morning hours, while the Tanager Managers and Bird Your Enthusiasm teams did so in the afternoon, with challenging SF windy conditions. The Tactical Shrike Force was the winning team, having identified 165 species, and they spent the entire day birding in the East Bay.The total and unique bird species reported in SF, and the uniquely reported species in the East Bay are listed below. Â The greater number of species reported in the East Bay is related to species distribution and time spent / distance covered by teams in the East Bay.
Total bird species reported in SF (n=121)
Species uniquely reported in SF (n=16)
Cackling Goose
Common Goldeneye
Wandering Tattler
Pigeon Guillemot
Common Murre
Marbled Murrelet
Pacific Loon
Common Loon
Peregrine Falcon
Red-masked Parakeet
Northern Pygmy Owl
Bank Swallow
Pacific Wren
White-throated Sparrow
Hooded Oriole
Gray Catbird
Bird species uniquely reported in the East Bay (n=82)Â
Brant
Date: 5/6/24 10:10 pm From: Adam Winer via groups.io <awiner...> Subject: [SFBirds] Swainson's Hawk (5/1) and other yard birds in the Inner Sunset
Last Wednesday afternoon (May 1), I had a young Swainson's Hawk fly south past the east side of Mt. Sutro, for yard bird #103. There's lousy record shots on eBird of this distinctive, pale-headed buteo with no patagial markings, a streaky breast band, darker secondaries, flying with a small dihedral and a thin pale ramp band.
May 1st was also the final day of Pine Siskins in the yard after being daily visitors all winter. White-throated and Golden-crowned Sparrow didn't quite make it to May, with the last of each showing on April 29th.
Other yard birds this spring were Hooded Oriole, #102 (surprising that Bullock's and Orchard came before Hooded), a distant singing Olive-sided Flycatcher for #101, and (disappointingly but predictably) European Starling as the milestone #100.
A pair of Violet-green Swallows have been flying around the Inner Sunset, perhaps prospecting for a nesting site? One of these years I'll get a nestbox up.
Beyond that, spring migrants have been scarce in the yard (fall seems more active here). Cedar Waxwings have arrived in numbers just last week after going missing all winter, and several single Wilson's Warblers and one Hermit Warbler have been the only other visitors so far.
Date: 5/6/24 4:14 pm From: Sequoia Audubon Society via groups.io <office...> Subject: [SFBirds] May Monthly Meeting - iNaturalist!
*Thursday, May 9, at the San Mateo Garden Center
iNaturalist with Tony Iwane
*
iNaturalist describes itself as "an online social network of people sharing biodiversity information to help each other learn about nature," its primary goal is to connect people to nature across the globe.
Our speaker, Tony Iwane, is iNaturalist’s Outreach and Support Coordinator. He is a former interpretive naturalist with several organizations. Born and raised in Hawaii, Tony now resides in Oakland. He does photography and most of the videos on iNaturalist. He writes occasionally for Bay Nature Magazine and was interviewed for the Nature’s Archive podcast.
If you haven't already downloaded the iNaturalist app, do so before the meeting. Tony will teach us how to record audio in the field using the app, and this will be an excellent opportunity to get all your "iNat" questions answered.
We're having ONE in-person meeting per quarter and hope that you'll join us. If you can't come, join on Zoom and register https://bit.ly/4a8fwAW . Doors open at 6:30 for socializing and refreshments.
Date: 5/6/24 10:13 am From: Matthew Zlatunich via groups.io <mbzlat...> Subject: [SFBirds] Alcatraz FalconCam
FYI
The FalconCam is now active for viewing with chicks in the nest.
More info here: New webcam allows viewers to watch nesting peregrine falcons on Alcatraz Island - Golden Gate National Recreation Area (U.S. National Park Service)
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New webcam allows viewers to watch nesting peregrine falcons on Alcatraz...
Date: 5/4/24 3:04 pm From: Jonah Benningfield via groups.io <falco1440...> Subject: Re: [SFBirds] Common Terns -Crissy Lagoon
One Common Tern was at the bridge until 2:45 but flew out and didn’t seem to return.
Also a LONG-TAILED DUCK giving nice views now off the Warming Hut Pier (west of Coast Guard Pier).
all the best,
Jonah B.
> On May 4, 2024, at 1:44 PM, Keith Maley <keith.maley...> wrote:
>
> A small flock of Common Terns is roosting with other tern species on the sand inside Crissy Lagoon just off the footbridge. Great opportunity to view this normally pelagic species for SF.
>
> The Laras reported 2 dozen Red-necked Phalaropes at Concrete Bridge. With the rain ending now, this might be a great time to get out and see what fell out.
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Date: 5/4/24 1:44 pm From: Keith Maley via groups.io <keith.maley...> Subject: [SFBirds] Common Terns -Crissy Lagoon
A small flock of Common Terns is roosting with other tern species on the sand inside Crissy Lagoon just off the footbridge. Great opportunity to view this normally pelagic species for SF.
The Laras reported 2 dozen Red-necked Phalaropes at Concrete Bridge. With the rain ending now, this might be a great time to get out and see what fell out.
Date: 5/4/24 10:57 am From: David Assmann via groups.io <david_assmann...> Subject: [SFBirds] City Year total stands at 237 species at the end of April
It was a quiet April with 17 new species - 4 fewer than the 25 year average: Warbling Vireo, Black-Headed Grosbeak , Golden Eagle, Chipping Sparrow, Bank Swallow, Harlequin Duck, Clay-colored Sparrow, Cassin's Vireo, Lazuli Bunting, Olive-Sided Flycatcher, Hammond's Flycatcher, Ash-throated Flycatcher, Swainson's Thrush, Vaux's Swift, Western Wood-Pewee, Yellow-breasted Chat and Ruddy Turnstone. We are 7 species behind last year's total. Â End of Month Total - 237 Species. You can see the complete 2024 list at https://sfbirds.net/2024-city-cumulative-list
Date: 5/3/24 3:37 pm From: David Assmann via groups.io <david_assmann...> Subject: [SFBirds] Fort Mason Local Interest
The trickle of migrants passing through Fort Mason picked up pace a little bit today with an ASH-THROATED FLYCATCHER and WESTERN KINGBIRD in the Battery; a CASSIN'S VIREO and a WARBLING VIREO (singing) behind the General's House and a BULLOCK'S ORIOLE above Aquatic Park. Many resident birds have successfully nested - HOUSE SPARROWS, WHITE-CROWNED SPARROWS, SONG SPARROWS, EUROPEAN STARLINGS and HOUSE FINCHES are feeding young. PIGEON GUILLEMOTS are on nests in the piers in lower Fort Mason - one of them is possibly nesting inside a pipe under one of the piers. A pair of NUTTALL'S WOODPECKERS drilled six holes in a small tree, and then abandoned them all for a nest hole in a Eucalyptus tree - PYGMY NUTHATCHES are nesting in one of the abandoned woodpecker holes. Meanwhile a pair of RED-MASKED PARAKEETS keep sticking their heads into the woodpecker nest hole, much to the chagrin of the Nuttall's. This morning a COOPER'S HAWK caught a European Starling in the garden and perched with its prey in the large tree on the west fence line for about 90 minutes - during that entire time one of the NORTHERN MOCKINGBIRDS sat 2 feet away from it constantly making screeching noises. The pair of GREAT HORNED OWLS had a successful nest raising one offspring that has now left the nest.
Date: 5/3/24 11:25 am From: Matt Brady via groups.io <podoces...> Subject: [SFBirds] SWALLOW-TAILED KITE, SEFI
Hello all. As if Swallow-tailed Gull and Blue Rock-Thrush weren’t enough, Jim Tietz just sent me a BOC photo of a SWALLOW-TAILED KITE, taken by the SEFI crew as it circled the lighthouse this morning. It was then seen departing for the SF mainland, so there’s a chance that some lucky soul could refind it.
Date: 5/2/24 12:37 pm From: Brian Fitch via groups.io <fogeggs...> Subject: [SFBirds] Shorebirds & Bonaparte’s
I spent over three hours at the Sutro Baths, starting at sunrise, and built
up a somewhat unusual list.
At 8:22, a female Harlequin Duck flew in following a Pigeon Guillemot,
passed very close by the terrace, and headed into the Gate. I could easily
see her small gray bill, white foreface, and single white cheek spot, and
she didn’t look any larger than the guillemot.
A few Red-breasted Mergansers, over a hundred Pacific Loons, and eight
Clark’s Grebes were all northbound. Three Wandering Tattlers were on the
beach, and three Ruddy Turnstones flew onto North Rock, where they mostly
stayed out of sight. Small flocks of small shorebirds were nearly
constant, with most too far out to discern, but those that passed closer
included Semipalmated Plover, Western and Least Sandpipers, Dunlin, and
three groups of Red-necked Phalaropes. Caspian Terns were moving north, at
least 30, but the big numbers belonged to Bonaparte’s Gull, with over 400
northbound in mostly small flocks.
Brian Fitch
Date: 4/30/24 8:52 am From: Nico Stuurman via groups.io <nico...> Subject: Re: [SFBirds] Ruddy Turnstones- Ocean Beach
Relocated just north of Noriega. Thanks Keith!
On April 30, 2024 7:39:51 AM PDT, Keith Maley <keith.maley...> wrote:
>Two between Santiago and Taraval, moving around a lot foraging on beach, flushed by off-leash dogs, etc.
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Date: 4/29/24 1:19 pm From: Lee Rudin via groups.io <leewaysf...> Subject: Re: [SFBirds] Yellow breasted chat SBM Park
Apologize for not specific location. It's near county line.Hotspot San bruno mountain park or checklist in San Mateo County. Posted with audio.Â
Sent from AT&T Yahoo Mail on Android
On Mon, Apr 29, 2024 at 10:18 AM, Lee Rudin<leewaysf...> wrote: From main parking lot, Summit trail west, Past garbage receptacles, just past oaks on left. Suncups on edge of trail. Heard calling intermittently 9:30-10. Flew overhead trail, long tail, yellow breast. Skulky otherwise.Â
Date: 4/28/24 7:44 am From: Liam Murphy via groups.io <liammsf...> Subject: [SFBirds] Active Flight
Signs of active flight persisting into daylight today. So far on Bernal Hill, a Common Loon flyover (a first for me here) and clearly migrating Barn Swallow. Eyes up!!
Date: 4/27/24 7:59 am From: Krish Maypole via groups.io <krish.maypole...> Subject: [SFBirds] Northern Pygmy-Owl at North Lake, Red Knot at Ocean Beach
Hi all!
This morning as part of the Bay Birding Challenge (go Righteous Roadrunners!), Rudy, Nico, Angie and I went to North Lake before sunrise.
We heard a Northern Pygmy-Owl tooting around the southeast corner of the lake around 5:05, and then again closer to Bercut at 5:10. We heard it one more time at 5:30. All four of us got recordings—will post later.
We moved on to Ocean Beach, where we had a Red Knot between Kirkham and Lawton, halfway between basic and alternate. Also present was a Bonaparte’s Gull in alternate.
Date: 4/26/24 3:36 pm From: Sarah Burton via groups.io <burtosarah...> Subject: Re: [SFBirds] YELLOW-BREASTED CHAT India Basin Shoreline
Excellent find, Liam!
For those free to chase the bird: listen for 20 minutes for its singing,
cross your fingers, then wait another 90 minutes for a 1-2 second visual:
(37.7356213, -122.3765568). Nearby construction, afternoon traffic, and the
strong winds made for a difficult stakeout but it’s absolutely there. Happy
spring!!!!!
Sarah
On Fri, Apr 26, 2024 at 12:47 Liam Murphy via groups.io <liammsf=
<gmail.com...> wrote:
> Skulky and periodically vocal in shrubs on hillside here:
> 37.735665,-122.376535
>
> Liam Murphy
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Date: 4/25/24 10:41 pm From: Aaron Maizlish via groups.io <amm.birdlists...> Subject: [SFBirds] Swallow-tailed Gull and Blue Rock-Thrush on the Farallons
Hey SF and Peninsula Birders,
For those of you who don’t subscribe to the eBird alerts, there was an absolutely bonkers checklist submitted by the Farallon Islands team today.
A (the) SWALLOW-TAILED GULL showed up on the islands, looking spiffy in full alternate plumage, just like the one last fall. I’ll go out on a limb and suggest that it is the same adult bird that was seen on San Gregorio Beach on Sept. 1, 2023, and prior to that in Goleta in July. (Might even be the same bird as prior year’s records.). I think that was the 7th North American sighting of this species, normally found around the Galapagos.
But that’s not even the main story. A BLUE ROCK-THRUSH is also on the checklist. This is a bird that had never been reported in the United States until four days ago when one was photographed on the beach in Cannon Beach Oregon, about 600 miles north of here. Is it the same bird? Probably, and it’s woefully misoriented if it’s heading south in April. They’re found in Europe and Asia, and this is the philppensis subspecies that breeds in Asia at about this latitude. This will be a first California record - the photos on the checklist are awesome.
I would hit the beaches tomorrow if these aren’t being seen on the Farallons. The Swallow-tailed Gull is a nocturnal feeder and tends to rest-in place during the daytime, so any big gull flock in San Mateo, San Francisco or Marin Counties, all about equidistant from the Farallons, is possible. The Goleta and San Gregorio sightings were both in large flocks of loafing gulls on a sand berm separating a wide beach from a lagoon. And the Blue Rock-Thrush? Who knows. They like rocky cliffs, harbors, rip-rap, sandy beaches, even concrete buildings and built-up areas according to Alvaro Jaramillo. If it’s the same bird as the Oregon sighting that means it’s averaging 150 miles a day.
Crazy stuff to kick off our spring-rarity season.
Aaron Maizlish
San Francisco
https://ebird.org/checklist/S170310255
eBird Checklist - 25 Apr 2024 - Southeast Farallon Island (Farallon Islands NWR, restricted access) - 39 species (+3 other taxa)
ebird.org
Date: 4/25/24 4:37 pm From: Dominik Mosur via groups.io <dominikmosur...> Subject: [SFBirds] SF Breeding Bird watch list etc
Inspired by feedback and interest shown by more than a few people on SFBirds I have put together a list of species to watch for as nesters in San Francisco. These are species that I've come to consider as rare/localized nesters, potential nesters and or former nesters that may return.
Please keep close tabs on any of these whenever you find them in appropriate habitat and report on eBird and here on the listserv:
Ruddy Duck - currently only known to nest regularly at Lake Merced but possible at better vegetated lakes/ponds like Mountain Lake, North Lake/GGP, others (?)
Western/Clark's Grebes - only nest at. Lake Merced, in varying numbers , watch out for potential hybrid pairings there
Band-tailed Pigeon - confirmed and or suspected of nesting in the mid-town region past 3-4 years, Mount Sutro, Mount Davidson, Forest Hill. Look for them also possibly nesting in the Presidio
White-throated Swifts - any news on breeding activity would be appreciated. in recent years confirmed from HWY 280 overpass/off ramp at mission creek, suspected (confirmed?) from new overpasses in Presidio as well as in vicinity of 101 and 280 split /potrero hill - Alemany - Bernal - Bayview
American Avocet/Black-necked Stilt - only known to nest at Heron's Head. Any documentation of juveniles at this or other sites reaching adult size /flight before predation would be highly appreciated.
Pigeon Guillemot - seems to be expanding, news of nesting inside of the Bay Bridge along
California Gull - no documented breeding on"mainland" SF that I'm aware of, only county records from Alcatraz. Be a hero, find the first breeding California Gulls in a bayside colony of Western Gulls (recology roof?, Yosemite Slough?)
Terns - any news on breeding of any tern species away from the inaccessible portion of Alameda Island would be of interest
Pelagic Cormorant - any evidence of nesting would be great
Double-crested Cormorant - any nesting away from Lake Merced
Black-crowned Night Heron - see California Gull, not known to breed away from Alcatraz. Possible among the Lake Merced Rookeries (?)
Northern Flicker - have nested in past decade in Presidio/Land's End/probably Olympic Club Golf course (edge of which is within SF) but may not do so every year, any sightings after April are of note
Red-masked Parakeet - as their numbers seem to continue steadily in the 200-300 range any nesting news will be of note. Especially any breeding west of twin peaks
Olive-sided Flycatcher - successfully breeding on Mount Sutro last year, any breeding news away from that site would be notable
Western Wood-pewee - breeding records from Mount Davidson within past decade and suspected on Bayview Hill. These are a late breeder/migrant but keep an eye on birds after mid-June
Western Flycatcher - still very localized in SF, breeding away from core areas in Glen Canyon and central/Eastern Presidio will be of interest
Hutton's Vireo - seems to have gotten scarce in recent years, any breeding away from Presidio/Golden Gate Park would be of note
Warbling Vireo - only one recent record from East Golden Gate Park of successfully breeding but like Wood-pewee should be looked for as a potential breeder
Violet-green Swallow - any confirmed breeding would be of note, seems to have expanded in recent years and now regularly present through breeding season on drier/isolated habitat hilltop parks like Mount Davidson, Corona Hill, Buena Vista Park, Lafayette Park
Wrentit - always notable away from Presidio Coastal Bluffs
House Wren - recent colonizer of SF, and notable wherever it may occur in the next couple of months as potential breeder
Bewick's Wren - much expanded in past few years, breeding away from core sites (McLaren, Bayview Hill, Glen Canyon, Mount Davidson, Presidio, Land's End, West GGP, Lake Merced)
Swainson's Thrush - recent years confirmed/highly probable on Mount Sutro/Davidson, would be great to get confirms in the Presidio/Land's End
Pine Siskin - appear to have nested sporadically on west side of City in GGP/Land's End , any breeding season reports are of interest
Savannah Sparrow - only the California Species of Special Concern Bryant's is known to nest in SF, any reports from known areas (Heron's Head, Yosemite Slough restoration, Candlestick) or new areas would be highly appreciated
Spotted Towhee - see Bewick's Wren
Red-winged/Brewer's Blackbird - both much declined in recent years as local breeders (possibly near 90%) any breeding news would be highly appreciated
Orange-crowned Warbler - has been sporadically confirmed in past two decades from Presidio Coastal Bluffs, Land's End, and suspected on Mounts Sutro/Davidson including again this spring, any breeding reports would be great
Common Yellowthroat - see Savannah Sparrow, any reports away from Lake Merced in breeding season would be very meaningful
Black-headed Grosbeak - one recent record on Mount Sutro, any breeding in SF very notable
Lazuli Bunting - confirmed a couple of times in past decade,
What you describe I would think is two different things. We have nearly no Tree Swallows here in Half Moon Bay, still the Violet-greens are taking sites that are not like typical Tree Swallow sites. The primary cause I think is habitat and cavity type. Perhaps Tree is more aggressive, but that may be secondary to the habitat/cavity type preferences in my opinion.
One would have to score some of these things, and run some analysis to tease it apart.
From: <SFBirds...> <SFBirds...> On Behalf Of rfs_berkeley
Sent: Wednesday, April 24, 2024 4:28 PM
To: <sfbirds...>
Subject: Re: [SFBirds] Violet-green Swallows
My observation is simply that Tree Swallows are dominate over Violet-greens and displace them from boxes, especially near prime foraging habitats like wetlands or riparian corridors. This seems quite noticeable in outer Point Reyes where I've been atlas birding. Holes in Alder snags along streams are entirely taken by Tree Swallows; holes in dryer more upland areas often by Violet-green. And in the inter-specific aggression I've observed, the Tree Swallows win 100% of the time.
In a prior life I put out quite a few boxes in eastern Washington and north Idaho and VG Swallows seemed happy to take them. Again, well away from wetlands and wet meadows.
I think it's a dominance thing.
-Rusty Scalf
On 2024-04-24 15:58, Alvaro Jaramillo wrote:
Dominik
To add to your comments, I don't think that Violet-green Swallows are generally all that keen on nest boxes. They can take them, and in some regions often do, but it is not their preference. They are entirely unlike Tree Swallows in this respect, as Tree Swallows love nest boxes. Here in Half Moon Bay, where Violet-green Swallows commonly nest, they tend to nest in the eaves, holes, nooks, crannies of houses. The few Tree Swallows that nest here are in boxes!
My guess is that out in the wild away from people Violet-greens are more likely to take a rough hole, a crack in a branch, a crevice in an old snag as opposed to a woodpecker hole. On the other hand, flicker and woodpecker holes are the go-to for Tree Swallows.
From: <SFBirds...> <mailto:<SFBirds...> <SFBirds...> <mailto:<SFBirds...> > On Behalf Of Dominik Mosur
Sent: Wednesday, April 24, 2024 2:42 PM
To: SF Birds <sfbirds...> <mailto:<sfbirds...> >
Subject: [SFBirds] recent migrants and breeding notes
migrants continue to pass through the City. In addition I've been monitoring breeding activities; even as some mid-range migrants are just beginning to arrive resident species are producing young for several weeks now. Unfortunately as happens every year, I've noted several breeding efforts disrupted or thwarted by human activity (gardening, weeding, tree trimming) both by private parties and work crews for local land management agencies.
Here's a few sightings I found notable from the past few days (in taxonomic order):
Pied-billed Grebe - 3 first of '24 juveniles observed in the SE corner of Laguna Honda Reservoir, off Clarendon/below the bee hives 4/23
White-throated Swifts - nowadays seem nearly ubiquitous in SF during the breeding season foraging low, and I suspect they are nesting/prospecting for nests much more widely than we may realize. Yesterday (4/23) while in the easternmost end of GoldenGate Park above McLaren Lodge I noted one bird buzzing around the top of St. Mary's medical building on Stanyan.
Rufous/Allen's Hummingbird - a female Selasphorus seen very briefly on Corona Hill 4/24 where there have been no sightings of Allen's this year. Timing suggestive of migrant Rufous
Band-tailed Pigeons - continue to be seen daily in the areas of Mount Sutro/Davidson/Forest Hill neighborhood and almost certainly nesting there again this year as in 2023 and '22.
Belted Kingfisher - a bird at Laguna Honda Res. 4/20-21, was either a very late migrant or a failed breeder. Only historical records of breeding in SF exist (Lake Merced prior to wholesale development of the lake)
Olive-sided Flycatcher - noted first arrival on Mount Davidson 4/19, on Mount Sutro 4/21 one was noted on a survey point within 100m of last year's nest. Olive-sided flycatcher is confirmed nesting only from Sutro in recent years and last noted breeding on Mount Davidson ~2017. Appears extirpated from Presidio and Golden Gate Park where it once bred as well.
Western Flycatcher - first arrival on Corona Hill 4/24
Chestnut-backed Chickadees - first fledglings of '24 noted being fed by parent on Corona HIll 4/24
Violet-green Swallows - people often ask me "where do Violet-green Swallows nest in San Francisco ?" To date I have yet to find a Violet-green Swallow nest in the City that was in a natural cavity or even a nesting box. All seem to be in openings on or near the roofs of houses. As an example a female was exploring the hole in a soffit vent cover near Pine Lake on 4/15
Ruby-crowned Kinglet - last detection was Corona Hill 4/19, these seem to have mostly cleared out
Red-breasted Nuthatch- there's been a notable push of these in recent days. 4/23 one was calling from a street/backyard pine on Evelyn Street a few hundred meters from the edge of Mount Davidson, another was on the Mount above the bowl
House Wren - a singing migrant was the first I've detected locally this spring on Corona Hill 4/24
Swainson's Thrush - since arriving on 4/18, a/the Swainson's Thrush has been calling and occasionally singing from above the LaBica entrance to Mount Davidson
Hermit Thrush - lingering /or perhaps moving through on Mount Davidson as recently as the morning of 4/24
Cedar Waxwings - largest recent grouping was ~230 near Parkside Covered Reservoir 4/19
Pine Siskin - have almost entirely cleared out since a flock of 80-100 was seen on 4/17 on Mount Davidson
Lesser Goldfinch - first fledglings of the year noted 4/24 on Mount Davidson and Corona Hill
Fox Sparrow (Sooty) - last noted on Mount Davidson 4/20, seem to have cleared out. Last two days have also been devoid of Golden-crowns.
Spotted Towhee - multiple territories on Mount Davidson, nest building as of this morning
Western Tanager - first migrant push of this species I've noted this spring (after 10+ wintering locally!), three on Mount Davidson, one on Corona mid-day 4/24
My observation is simply that Tree Swallows are dominate over
Violet-greens and displace them from boxes, especially near prime
foraging habitats like wetlands or riparian corridors. This seems quite
noticeable in outer Point Reyes where I've been atlas birding. Holes in
Alder snags along streams are entirely taken by Tree Swallows; holes in
dryer more upland areas often by Violet-green. And in the inter-specific
aggression I've observed, the Tree Swallows win 100% of the time.
In a prior life I put out quite a few boxes in eastern Washington and
north Idaho and VG Swallows seemed happy to take them. Again, well away
from wetlands and wet meadows.
I think it's a dominance thing.
-Rusty Scalf
On 2024-04-24 15:58, Alvaro Jaramillo wrote:
> Dominik
>
> To add to your comments, I don't think that Violet-green Swallows are generally all that keen on nest boxes. They can take them, and in some regions often do, but it is not their preference. They are entirely unlike Tree Swallows in this respect, as Tree Swallows love nest boxes. Here in Half Moon Bay, where Violet-green Swallows commonly nest, they tend to nest in the eaves, holes, nooks, crannies of houses. The few Tree Swallows that nest here are in boxes!
>
> My guess is that out in the wild away from people Violet-greens are more likely to take a rough hole, a crack in a branch, a crevice in an old snag as opposed to a woodpecker hole. On the other hand, flicker and woodpecker holes are the go-to for Tree Swallows.
>
> Alvaro Jaramillo
>
> <alvaro...>
>
> www.alvarosadventures.com [1]
>
> From: <SFBirds...> <SFBirds...> On Behalf Of Dominik Mosur
> Sent: Wednesday, April 24, 2024 2:42 PM
> To: SF Birds <sfbirds...>
> Subject: [SFBirds] recent migrants and breeding notes
>
> migrants continue to pass through the City. In addition I've been monitoring breeding activities; even as some mid-range migrants are just beginning to arrive resident species are producing young for several weeks now. Unfortunately as happens every year, I've noted several breeding efforts disrupted or thwarted by human activity (gardening, weeding, tree trimming) both by private parties and work crews for local land management agencies.
>
> Here's a few sightings I found notable from the past few days (in taxonomic order):
>
> Pied-billed Grebe - 3 first of '24 juveniles observed in the SE corner of Laguna Honda Reservoir, off Clarendon/below the bee hives 4/23
>
> White-throated Swifts - nowadays seem nearly ubiquitous in SF during the breeding season foraging low, and I suspect they are nesting/prospecting for nests much more widely than we may realize. Yesterday (4/23) while in the easternmost end of GoldenGate Park above McLaren Lodge I noted one bird buzzing around the top of St. Mary's medical building on Stanyan.
>
> Rufous/Allen's Hummingbird - a female Selasphorus seen very briefly on Corona Hill 4/24 where there have been no sightings of Allen's this year. Timing suggestive of migrant Rufous
>
> Band-tailed Pigeons - continue to be seen daily in the areas of Mount Sutro/Davidson/Forest Hill neighborhood and almost certainly nesting there again this year as in 2023 and '22.
>
> Belted Kingfisher - a bird at Laguna Honda Res. 4/20-21, was either a very late migrant or a failed breeder. Only historical records of breeding in SF exist (Lake Merced prior to wholesale development of the lake)
>
> Olive-sided Flycatcher - noted first arrival on Mount Davidson 4/19, on Mount Sutro 4/21 one was noted on a survey point within 100m of last year's nest. Olive-sided flycatcher is confirmed nesting only from Sutro in recent years and last noted breeding on Mount Davidson ~2017. Appears extirpated from Presidio and Golden Gate Park where it once bred as well.
>
> Western Flycatcher - first arrival on Corona Hill 4/24
>
> Chestnut-backed Chickadees - first fledglings of '24 noted being fed by parent on Corona HIll 4/24
>
> Violet-green Swallows - people often ask me "where do Violet-green Swallows nest in San Francisco ?" To date I have yet to find a Violet-green Swallow nest in the City that was in a natural cavity or even a nesting box. All seem to be in openings on or near the roofs of houses. As an example a female was exploring the hole in a soffit vent cover near Pine Lake on 4/15
>
> https://ebird.org/checklist/S168787046 >
> Ruby-crowned Kinglet - last detection was Corona Hill 4/19, these seem to have mostly cleared out
>
> Red-breasted Nuthatch- there's been a notable push of these in recent days. 4/23 one was calling from a street/backyard pine on Evelyn Street a few hundred meters from the edge of Mount Davidson, another was on the Mount above the bowl
>
> House Wren - a singing migrant was the first I've detected locally this spring on Corona Hill 4/24
>
> Swainson's Thrush - since arriving on 4/18, a/the Swainson's Thrush has been calling and occasionally singing from above the LaBica entrance to Mount Davidson
>
> Hermit Thrush - lingering /or perhaps moving through on Mount Davidson as recently as the morning of 4/24
>
> Cedar Waxwings - largest recent grouping was ~230 near Parkside Covered Reservoir 4/19
>
> Pine Siskin - have almost entirely cleared out since a flock of 80-100 was seen on 4/17 on Mount Davidson
>
> Lesser Goldfinch - first fledglings of the year noted 4/24 on Mount Davidson and Corona Hill
>
> Fox Sparrow (Sooty) - last noted on Mount Davidson 4/20, seem to have cleared out. Last two days have also been devoid of Golden-crowns.
>
> Spotted Towhee - multiple territories on Mount Davidson, nest building as of this morning
>
> Western Tanager - first migrant push of this species I've noted this spring (after 10+ wintering locally!), three on Mount Davidson, one on Corona mid-day 4/24
>
> trip report from recent days here:
>
> https://ebird.org/tripreport/226201 >
> Dominik Mosur
>
> San Francisco
>
>
To add to your comments, I don’t think that Violet-green Swallows are generally all that keen on nest boxes. They can take them, and in some regions often do, but it is not their preference. They are entirely unlike Tree Swallows in this respect, as Tree Swallows love nest boxes. Here in Half Moon Bay, where Violet-green Swallows commonly nest, they tend to nest in the eaves, holes, nooks, crannies of houses. The few Tree Swallows that nest here are in boxes!
My guess is that out in the wild away from people Violet-greens are more likely to take a rough hole, a crack in a branch, a crevice in an old snag as opposed to a woodpecker hole. On the other hand, flicker and woodpecker holes are the go-to for Tree Swallows.
From: <SFBirds...> <SFBirds...> On Behalf Of Dominik Mosur
Sent: Wednesday, April 24, 2024 2:42 PM
To: SF Birds <sfbirds...>
Subject: [SFBirds] recent migrants and breeding notes
migrants continue to pass through the City. In addition I've been monitoring breeding activities; even as some mid-range migrants are just beginning to arrive resident species are producing young for several weeks now. Unfortunately as happens every year, I've noted several breeding efforts disrupted or thwarted by human activity (gardening, weeding, tree trimming) both by private parties and work crews for local land management agencies.
Here's a few sightings I found notable from the past few days (in taxonomic order):
Pied-billed Grebe - 3 first of '24 juveniles observed in the SE corner of Laguna Honda Reservoir, off Clarendon/below the bee hives 4/23
White-throated Swifts - nowadays seem nearly ubiquitous in SF during the breeding season foraging low, and I suspect they are nesting/prospecting for nests much more widely than we may realize. Yesterday (4/23) while in the easternmost end of GoldenGate Park above McLaren Lodge I noted one bird buzzing around the top of St. Mary's medical building on Stanyan.
Rufous/Allen's Hummingbird - a female Selasphorus seen very briefly on Corona Hill 4/24 where there have been no sightings of Allen's this year. Timing suggestive of migrant Rufous
Band-tailed Pigeons - continue to be seen daily in the areas of Mount Sutro/Davidson/Forest Hill neighborhood and almost certainly nesting there again this year as in 2023 and '22.
Belted Kingfisher - a bird at Laguna Honda Res. 4/20-21, was either a very late migrant or a failed breeder. Only historical records of breeding in SF exist (Lake Merced prior to wholesale development of the lake)
Olive-sided Flycatcher - noted first arrival on Mount Davidson 4/19, on Mount Sutro 4/21 one was noted on a survey point within 100m of last year's nest. Olive-sided flycatcher is confirmed nesting only from Sutro in recent years and last noted breeding on Mount Davidson ~2017. Appears extirpated from Presidio and Golden Gate Park where it once bred as well.
Western Flycatcher - first arrival on Corona Hill 4/24
Chestnut-backed Chickadees - first fledglings of '24 noted being fed by parent on Corona HIll 4/24
Violet-green Swallows - people often ask me "where do Violet-green Swallows nest in San Francisco ?" To date I have yet to find a Violet-green Swallow nest in the City that was in a natural cavity or even a nesting box. All seem to be in openings on or near the roofs of houses. As an example a female was exploring the hole in a soffit vent cover near Pine Lake on 4/15
Ruby-crowned Kinglet - last detection was Corona Hill 4/19, these seem to have mostly cleared out
Red-breasted Nuthatch- there's been a notable push of these in recent days. 4/23 one was calling from a street/backyard pine on Evelyn Street a few hundred meters from the edge of Mount Davidson, another was on the Mount above the bowl
House Wren - a singing migrant was the first I've detected locally this spring on Corona Hill 4/24
Swainson's Thrush - since arriving on 4/18, a/the Swainson's Thrush has been calling and occasionally singing from above the LaBica entrance to Mount Davidson
Hermit Thrush - lingering /or perhaps moving through on Mount Davidson as recently as the morning of 4/24
Cedar Waxwings - largest recent grouping was ~230 near Parkside Covered Reservoir 4/19
Pine Siskin - have almost entirely cleared out since a flock of 80-100 was seen on 4/17 on Mount Davidson
Lesser Goldfinch - first fledglings of the year noted 4/24 on Mount Davidson and Corona Hill
Fox Sparrow (Sooty) - last noted on Mount Davidson 4/20, seem to have cleared out. Last two days have also been devoid of Golden-crowns.
Spotted Towhee - multiple territories on Mount Davidson, nest building as of this morning
Western Tanager - first migrant push of this species I've noted this spring (after 10+ wintering locally!), three on Mount Davidson, one on Corona mid-day 4/24
Date: 4/24/24 2:42 pm From: Dominik Mosur via groups.io <dominikmosur...> Subject: [SFBirds] recent migrants and breeding notes
migrants continue to pass through the City. In addition I've been monitoring breeding activities; even as some mid-range migrants are just beginning to arrive resident species are producing young for several weeks now. Unfortunately as happens every year, I've noted several breeding efforts disrupted or thwarted by human activity (gardening, weeding, tree trimming) both by private parties and work crews for local land management agencies.
Here's a few sightings I found notable from the past few days (in taxonomic order):
Pied-billed Grebe - 3 first of '24 juveniles observed in the SE corner of Laguna Honda Reservoir, off Clarendon/below the bee hives 4/23
White-throated Swifts - nowadays seem nearly ubiquitous in SF during the breeding season foraging low, and I suspect they are nesting/prospecting for nests much more widely than we may realize. Yesterday (4/23) while in the easternmost end of GoldenGate Park above McLaren Lodge I noted one bird buzzing around the top of St. Mary's medical building on Stanyan.
Rufous/Allen's Hummingbird - a female Selasphorus seen very briefly on Corona Hill 4/24 where there have been no sightings of Allen's this year. Timing suggestive of migrant Rufous
Band-tailed Pigeons - continue to be seen daily in the areas of Mount Sutro/Davidson/Forest Hill neighborhood and almost certainly nesting there again this year as in 2023 and '22.
Belted Kingfisher - a bird at Laguna Honda Res. 4/20-21, was either a very late migrant or a failed breeder. Only historical records of breeding in SF exist (Lake Merced prior to wholesale development of the lake)
Olive-sided Flycatcher - noted first arrival on Mount Davidson 4/19, on Mount Sutro 4/21 one was noted on a survey point within 100m of last year's nest. Olive-sided flycatcher is confirmed nesting only from Sutro in recent years and last noted breeding on Mount Davidson ~2017. Appears extirpated from Presidio and Golden Gate Park where it once bred as well.
Western Flycatcher - first arrival on Corona Hill 4/24
Chestnut-backed Chickadees - first fledglings of '24 noted being fed by parent on Corona HIll 4/24
Violet-green Swallows - people often ask me "where do Violet-green Swallows nest in San Francisco ?" To date I have yet to find a Violet-green Swallow nest in the City that was in a natural cavity or even a nesting box. All seem to be in openings on or near the roofs of houses. As an example a female was exploring the hole in a soffit vent cover near Pine Lake on 4/15
Ruby-crowned Kinglet - last detection was Corona Hill 4/19, these seem to have mostly cleared out
Red-breasted Nuthatch- there's been a notable push of these in recent days. 4/23 one was calling from a street/backyard pine on Evelyn Street a few hundred meters from the edge of Mount Davidson, another was on the Mount above the bowl
House Wren - a singing migrant was the first I've detected locally this spring on Corona Hill 4/24
Swainson's Thrush - since arriving on 4/18, a/the Swainson's Thrush has been calling and occasionally singing from above the LaBica entrance to Mount Davidson
Hermit Thrush - lingering /or perhaps moving through on Mount Davidson as recently as the morning of 4/24
Cedar Waxwings - largest recent grouping was ~230 near Parkside Covered Reservoir 4/19
Pine Siskin - have almost entirely cleared out since a flock of 80-100 was seen on 4/17 on Mount Davidson
Lesser Goldfinch - first fledglings of the year noted 4/24 on Mount Davidson and Corona Hill
Fox Sparrow (Sooty) - last noted on Mount Davidson 4/20, seem to have cleared out. Last two days have also been devoid of Golden-crowns.
Spotted Towhee - multiple territories on Mount Davidson, nest building as of this morning
Western Tanager - first migrant push of this species I've noted this spring (after 10+ wintering locally!), three on Mount Davidson, one on Corona mid-day 4/24
Date: 4/24/24 12:55 pm From: Brian Fitch via groups.io <fogeggs...> Subject: [SFBirds] Crossbills
I was walking the Vista Grande Canal this morning, and was thinking about
Josiah’s and Cedric’s sighting last week of crossbills flying over, when I
saw movement in one of the haggard pines growing along the fence above the
canal. Sure enough, it was a male Red Crossbill. I quickly spotted a
second male and a female. I approached a little closer and then sat on the
concrete edge of the ditch to see if any others were present. They
obviously recognized me as a person who respects a bird’s personal space,
because they then graced me with a long drinking and bathing session on one
of the mud beaches in the canal. Five bright pink males together, two
yellowish females together, and two grayish immatures together made for at
least nine crossbills, the most I’ve seen in town in some years. They were
mostly silent, but gave a few type twoish calls upon returning to the
pines, where they preened and finally started prying at cones, which was
how I left them. This was across the road to the west of the south end of
Lake Merced, adjacent to the Olympic Club golf course.
The only other unusual species was a late Aleutian Cackling Goose grazing
with Canadas at the boathouse at Harding Park.
Brian Fitch
Date: 4/23/24 12:44 pm From: Peter Pyle via groups.io <ppyle...> Subject: [SFBirds] Belated and bereft Blackburnian
Matha Velez at California Academy of Sciences received an HY female
Blackburninan Warbler found dead downtown last December at 723 Taylor
St. Not sure if this was a known bird or not.
Date: 4/23/24 10:56 am From: Brian Fitch via groups.io <fogeggs...> Subject: Re: [SFBirds] Migrants!
Between 7:30-8:15, the following species of interest were on the hills
north of McLaren Lodge and the Horseshoe Pits in eastern Golden Gate Park:
Western Flycatcher
Warbling Vireo - 2-3 singing
Red-breasted Nuthatch - calling from an oak
Orange-crowned, Yellow-rumped, Townsend's and Wilson's Warblers
Western Tanager - singing
White-throated Sparrow - 2 singing, something I rarely hear in SF
Black-headed Grosbeak - singing
Bullock's Oriole - 6 together in a single oak
Yesterday there were 2 Lazuli Buntings and an American Goldfinch at Ft
Scott, and the Harlequin Duck continued below Battery Godfrey. The duck
was not present early in the morning, but sailed into view from the
direction of the bridge after 9 AM. Over at the East Wash below the Legion
of Honor, 2 Bullock's and 2 Hooded Orioles were briefly in a Euc together.
On the 20th, a Nashville Warbler and two more late staying but silent White
throated Sparrows were in Buena Vista Park.
Brian Fitch
On Tue, Apr 23, 2024 at 7:59 AM Brian Fitch via groups.io <fogeggs=
<gmail.com...> wrote:
> The hill north of McLaren Lodge in Golden Gate Park is crawling with
> western migrants. The topper thus far is six Bullock’s in a single oak.
> Many other species including a singing White throated Sparrow. Full report
> later.
> Brian Fitch
>
>
>
Date: 4/23/24 7:59 am From: Brian Fitch via groups.io <fogeggs...> Subject: [SFBirds] Migrants!
The hill north of McLaren Lodge in Golden Gate Park is crawling with
western migrants. The topper thus far is six Bullock’s in a single oak.
Many other species including a singing White throated Sparrow. Full report
later.
Brian Fitch
Date: 4/20/24 10:57 am From: Adam Winer via groups.io <awiner...> Subject: [SFBirds] Mt. Davidson, Apr. 20: a handful of migrants
There weren't a lot of migrants this morning atop Mt. D - just singletons of a handful of species, but most were FOS for me (which isn't saying much - I've hardly been out). Other birders on the mountain included Travis, Lydia, Keith, Nina, and (of course) Dominik. Highlights included:
- Orchard Oriole - for 30 seconds high in a euc halfway down the north slope. Approximately the 7 zillionth OROR in the last 12 months in SF. - Ash-throated Flycatcher: first low in shrubs at the top of the gully trail, then refound by Keith along the trail low on the east side of the mountain. - Olive-sided Flycatcher: moving around silently high along the forest edge - Black-throated Gray Warbler: one flyby
Also had a male Allen's Hummingbird which *seemed *all rufous, but on closer examination showed a bit of green on the upper back, and when I got a photo of the spread tail feathers it was clearly an Allen's.
Nina apparently had a Golden-crowned Kinglet as well.
