Birdingonthe.Net Recent Postings from Iowa Birding > Home > Mail > Alerts Updated on Thursday, February 9 at 03:15 PM EST The most recently received Mail is at the top.	Montezuma Quaiil,©BirdQuest

9 Feb Winter Wren at Springbrook Park ["Denny Thompson" ] 9 Feb Re: Hooded Crane (speculative) ["Dinsmore, Stephen J [NREM]" ] 9 Feb Re: Hooded Crane (speculative) [Chris West ] 9 Feb Re: Hooded Crane (speculative) [Aaron Brees ] 8 Feb Re: Hooded Crane (speculative) [Chris West ] 9 Feb Hooded Crane (speculative) [] 7 Feb another Polk Snowy Owl ["Denny Thompson" ] 07 Feb Bird tracks on the Ice [Steve Harvey ] 7 Feb Iowa City Aythia ["Brochu, Christopher A" ] 7 Feb strange goose (Leon) correct link ["Zonya Gingrich" ] 6 Feb strange goose...hybrid barnacle goose? Leon ["Zonya Gingrich" ] 6 Feb Gulls at the Quad Cities [] 6 Feb RE: Cooper's, Iowa City ["Kai Weatherman" ] 7 Feb Recent Ames sightings. ["Dinsmore, Stephen J [NREM]" ] 6 Feb Cooper's, Iowa City [RG/KW ] 6 Feb Krider's Red-Tail, West Des Moines ["Leland Searles" ] 6 Feb Backyard Goldfinches - Cerro Gordo County ["Bruce McKee" ] 6 Feb redpolls in Winnebago County ["Lisa Ralls" ] 6 Feb Quad Cities Great Black-backed Gulls [Diana Pesek ] 5 Feb Birding Update [Carol & Jim Sinclair ] 05 Feb Decorah Mouse [Reid & Pam Allen ] 5 Feb Quad Cities area Sunday [Diana Pesek ] 5 Feb Johnston Pits Area [Kevin Murphy ] 5 Feb RE: Bird misinformation published in THE DES MOINES REGISTER ["Mick Zerr" ] 5 Feb Re: 2 firsts ["chris jones" ] 5 Feb RE: Bird misinformation published in THE DES MOINES REGISTER ["Inger Lamb" ] 05 Feb Eurasian collared-dove Inquiry ["Sarah Finley" ] 5 Feb 2 firsts ["Beth Brown" ] 5 Feb common redpolls at Saylorville Vis Ctr ["chris jones" ] 5 Feb Feeders This Morning, Des Moines ["Leland Searles" ] 5 Feb Re: Bird misinformation published in THE DES MOINES REGISTER ["Leland Searles" ] 5 Feb Crossbills, Redpolls, Longspurs and Thnak yous. [David Starrett ] 4 Feb Bird misinformation published in THE DES MOINES REGISTER [] 4 Feb Red Poll Boone Co ["Larry Dau" ] 4 Feb F.W. Kent redpolls ["Brochu, Christopher A" ] 4 Feb Re: 2012 estimated income and expenses [] 04 Feb International Festival of Owls - Houston, MN [No Sightings] [Alan Stankevitz ] 3 Feb Iowa RBA: 2-3-12 [John and Anna Bissell ] 3 Feb Bald Eagles: south of Leon ["Zonya Gingrich" ] 3 Feb Ducks on Coralville Res, Spring is Coming [Rick Hollis ] 3 Feb Common Redpolls continue at F.W. Kent Park - Johnson County ["Jason McCurdy" ] 2 Feb Short-eared Owl at Eastern Iowa Airport [] 2 Feb Lesser Black-Backed Gull at Cedar Lake [Diana Pesek ] 2 Feb E. Ia. Airport Snowy Owl -- NO, Short-Eared Owl -- YES ["Michele Francis" ] 2 Feb Re: It's beginning to sound a lot like spring...Decatur Co. [] 2 Feb Quad-Cities [Robinson Donald G ] 2 Feb Saylorville birds [Danny Akers ] 2 Feb Ottumwa Courier article on Bullock's Oriole ["Hank Zaletel" ] 2 Feb It's beginning to sound a lot like spring...Decatur Co. ["Zonya Gingrich" ] 2 Feb Eurasian Tree Sparrows in Iowa City ["Julie Englander" ] 1 Feb looking for birding spots [David Starrett ] 1 Feb Johnson Co. redpolls ["Linda & Robert Scarth" ] 1 Feb Cackling Geese [Danny Akers ] 1 Feb QCA birding: Franklin's Gull ["Chuck Leib" ] 1 Feb Ankeny Snowy - No ["Ty Smedes" ] 1 Feb Redpolls and NE day trip [] 1 Feb Glendale Cemetery, Des Moines ["Leland Searles" ] 1 Feb Farragut Snowy Owl [Keith Dyche ] 31 Jan Coralville Rez, Long Eared Owls [RG/KW ] 31 Jan Lesser Black-backed Gull at Cedar Rapids [] 31 Jan SAC COUNTY SNOWY OWL ["Chad Lankford" ] 31 Jan Red-shouldered Hawk in Cedar Rapids [] 31 Jan bird guide in Jamaica ["Sue Yeakel" ] 31 Jan Common Redpolls Continue in Johnson Co. [] 31 Jan Co Redpolls, kent p [Rick Hollis ] 31 Jan Des Moines birds ["Denny Thompson" ] 30 Jan Quad Cities Scoters and Gulls [] 30 Jan SAC COUNTY SNOWY OWL ["Chad Lankford" ] 30 Jan Owls today [Don Poggensee ] 30 Jan Bluebird checking nestbox - Spring? ["Larry Dau" ] 30 Jan Redpolls still at Kent Park, Johnson Co. ["Kyle Belcher" ] 30 Jan Neal Smith Short-eared owl ["Kyle Belcher" ] 30 Jan Re: Ankeney Snowy brief sighting [] 30 Jan Short-eared Owl--Neal Smith NWR [] 30 Jan exciting event ["Beth Brown" ] 30 Jan Red-tailed Hawk nest ["Zenitsky, Gary D [B M S]" ] Subject: Winter Wren at Springbrook Park From: "Denny Thompson" <cndthomps AT acm.org> Date: Thu, 9 Feb 2012 15:00:25 -0500 There was a Winter Wren at the east footbridge in Springbrook Park this morning. I drove a lot of gravel roads in northern Guthrie County, but 100+ Horned Larks were all I could find (largest flock was 45). No luck with Snow Buntings nor Longspurs. Denny Thompson Johnston --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Re: Hooded Crane (speculative) From: "Dinsmore, Stephen J [NREM]" <cootjr AT iastate.edu> Date: Thu, 9 Feb 2012 16:36:45 +0000 Chris et al.- I think the main point here is that we advance our knowledge of birds (distribution, patterns of vagrancy, etc.) by taking a conservative stance on unlikely events. In the simplest terms, a hypothesis has been posed that a Hooded Crane arrived in North America naturally, unassisted by humans. Logically, the birding community should strive to amass evidence for, and against, this hypothesis as a means of supporting or refuting it. Support in favor of the hypothesis would have little merit if we didn’t pursue it with a healthy amount of doubt! Constructive skepticism is, in my opinion, an essential part of this debate, independent of the ultimate conclusion about its origin. It is also important to recall that the topic of origin in birds spans a continuum of evidence – few of us would consider counting a Lilac-crowned Parrot in Iowa as a wild vagrant from Mexico (a pair frequented Ames many years ago), but almost all of us count as wild any Eurasian Wigeon that appears in the Midwest. Why? Because we have differing levels of evidence for each scenario, which helps us reach conclusions about the most likely origin (wild, or something else). I’m not sure where the Hooded Crane falls, although I am by no means convinced that the evidence unequivocally supports a wild origin. Chris makes a good point about its occurrence with Sandhill Cranes in Nebraska. But it is worth pointing out that the cranes in Nebraska are (mostly) a different subspecies than those in Tennessee and Indiana. If the bird originated in Asia and reached the Great Plains with Lesser Sandhill Cranes, much as we surmise happens with Common Cranes, then why did it make a beeline east and join Greater Sandhill Cranes? Regardless of the bird’s ultimate “countability” this represents a neat opportunity to view a spectacular looking bird in the Great Plains! Steve ********** Stephen J. Dinsmore Department of Natural Resource Ecology & Management Iowa State University 339 Science II Ames, IA 50011 Phone: 515-294-1348 E-mail: cootjr AT iastate.edu Web: http://www.public.iastate.edu/~cootjr/ �y�r���&�쨺�"�b�-����+-�ج�yrj�(�֬��z�&jG���v)�r���ky�&���jب��+��R��b��>��j��zW��*'r���y�F����j׬zW��*'r���z�D�ɚ�X��X��+,��좷�o+ax�0h���h��"���*'1�z�!���j)ZnW��X�y�a��� 0��n*ݲ���*.����j�qb����.����\����&�v�"i��u�#�)^���v)�{azw� Subject: Re: Hooded Crane (speculative) From: Chris West <swallowtailedkite AT gmail.com> Date: Thu, 9 Feb 2012 08:00:54 -0600 Why are we always so quick to doubt when a vagrant turns up? Just because it's from Asia? Does that somehow make it any less probable than a Gray-hooded Gull from Peru, a Sungrebe from Mexico, a Western Reef-Heron from Europe or a Yellow-browed Warbler from Siberia? All of the above species have records in the ABA area. Wisconsin has a record of Yellow-browed Warbler. To me, that would seem far more impossible than a large bird like a crane showing up. Common Cranes show up in the US on a regular basis. Nebraska alone has 16 records now. Why couldn't another species of crane show up? Look at what's been found out so far. The Hooded Crane was first found in a flock of Sandhills along the Platte River just outside of Grand Island, NE. This means it very likely came down from the northwest with these cranes. It somehow managed to find its way south and ended up at Hiwassee Wildlife Refuge in Dec. When those cranes migrated, it followed. It is now hanging out with a group of cranes at Goose Pond, Indiana. The 4 Hooded Cranes that escaped an enclosure in Idaho some years back were all pinioned. This bird is quite obviously not pinioned. If you watch when it flies, it has all of its pinion feathers. It is also acting like a wild bird and associating with the Sandhills. Next point: All known captive Hooded Cranes have been accounted for. Thus, this almost completely rules out any possibility of it being an escaped bird. Therefore, the only answer is that it is a true vagrant and there is no reason why it shouldn't be accepted. My advice in any case: Go see it while you can. We may never have another one. --Chris W, Madison, WI Sent from my iPod On Feb 9, 2012, at 0:04, Aaron Brees wrote: > "Based on the evidence outlined by Mark Brogie (chair of the NE records committee), there is little doubt that all three records will be accepted." > > This probably isn't the appropriate forum to debate the origin of this bird, but considering that people may decide to chase it or not based on the perception of whether these records will be accepted, I think it is only fair to point out that Chris is overstating his case here. As far as I know, a lot of people have seen the same evidence Chris refers to, and many don't find it nearly as compelling as he does. I'm not saying that the records won't be accepted, only that before anyone spends their hard earned money on gas and a motel in Indiana, they would be well advised to read the available info and make an independent judgment. "There is little doubt that all three records will be accepted" is a personal opinion, stated with unwarranted certainty. > > Aaron Brees > Saylorville, IA > http://www.flickr.com/photos/abrees/ > --- > Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! > --- > Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: > Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 > --- > This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. > ----- > You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: swallowtailedkite AT gmail.com --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Re: Hooded Crane (speculative) From: Aaron Brees <abrees AT hotmail.com> Date: Thu, 9 Feb 2012 00:04:37 -0600 "Based on the evidence outlined by Mark Brogie (chair of the NE records committee), there is little doubt that all three records will be accepted." This probably isn't the appropriate forum to debate the origin of this bird, but considering that people may decide to chase it or not based on the perception of whether these records will be accepted, I think it is only fair to point out that Chris is overstating his case here. As far as I know, a lot of people have seen the same evidence Chris refers to, and many don't find it nearly as compelling as he does. I'm not saying that the records won't be accepted, only that before anyone spends their hard earned money on gas and a motel in Indiana, they would be well advised to read the available info and make an independent judgment. "There is little doubt that all three records will be accepted" is a personal opinion, stated with unwarranted certainty. Aaron BreesSaylorville, IAhttp://www.flickr.com/photos/abrees/ --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Re: Hooded Crane (speculative) From: Chris West <swallowtailedkite AT gmail.com> Date: Wed, 8 Feb 2012 22:28:42 -0600 Having read all of the info quite thoroughly, I would go so far as to say that Hooded Crane being seen in IN right now is not only the same bird as the TN bird, but is also the same individual that was seen in Nebraska last April. Based on the evidence outlined by Mark Brogie (chair of the NE records committee), there is little doubt that all three records will be accepted. --Chris W, Madison, WI Sent from my iPod On Feb 8, 2012, at 20:02, drbeel AT mchsi.com wrote: > > Birders > > A Hooded Crane is being seen in SW Indiana. Evidently the Hooded Crane that recently spent some time in Tennessee hasn't been seen for a few days. Conclusion: it must be the same bird, moving north with Sandhills. Tempting thought: it's trajectory might bring it to Iowa, so let's keep our eyes on Cone Marsh, Otter Creek, Jim Fuller's yard, etc. > > The provenance of the TN/IN bird has not been confirmed, but my reading of the situation seems to favor wild > escapee. I'm not savvy enough to weigh in on that discussion. > > Bill Scheible > Cedar Rapids > > > > > > > > > > > > Bill Scheible > Cedar Rapids > > Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry > > --- > Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! > --- > Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: > Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 > --- > This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. > ----- > You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: swallowtailedkite AT gmail.com --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Hooded Crane (speculative) From: drbeel AT mchsi.com Date: Thu, 9 Feb 2012 02:02:23 +0000 Birders A Hooded Crane is being seen in SW Indiana. Evidently the Hooded Crane that recently spent some time in Tennessee hasn't been seen for a few days. Conclusion: it must be the same bird, moving north with Sandhills. Tempting thought: it's trajectory might bring it to Iowa, so let's keep our eyes on Cone Marsh, Otter Creek, Jim Fuller's yard, etc. The provenance of the TN/IN bird has not been confirmed, but my reading of the situation seems to favor wild > escapee. I'm not savvy enough to weigh in on that discussion. Bill Scheible Cedar Rapids Bill Scheible Cedar Rapids Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: another Polk Snowy Owl From: "Denny Thompson" <cndthomps AT acm.org> Date: Tue, 7 Feb 2012 13:27:19 -0500 There was an immature Snowy Owl this morning southeast of the intersection of NW 30th St. and NW 150th Ave. This is only a few miles north of the adult female that's been seen near Ankeny. Denny Thompson Johnston --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Bird tracks on the Ice From: Steve Harvey <saharvey AT lyrixl2s.net> Date: Tue, 07 Feb 2012 09:17:16 -0600 Walking the dog this morning and passed a small pond that had refrozen and had a light cover of new fallen snow. In the middle of the ice were 2 skid marks about 4 ft long and a foot wide. At the end of each skid a set of large bird tracks led toward a 6' diameter hole in the ice near the shore. One bird entered the water and emerged the other side and both then continued a short tour of the pond, tracking past the place on the shore where I see a Canada goose nest each spring. Not an earth shattering event to see where two geese had been, but unusual enough that I thought I would share. Steve Harvey rural Clarke County --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Iowa City Aythia From: "Brochu, Christopher A" <chris-brochu AT uiowa.edu> Date: Tue, 7 Feb 2012 14:30:25 +0000 There was some form of Aythia on the Iowa River this morning, between Iowa and Burlington. Its head was definitely not red, but whether it was a scaup or ring-necked duck wasn't clear to me, and the effort to make the determination would probably have annoyed the driver behind me. Christopher A. Brochu Associate Professor Department of Geoscience University of Iowa Iowa City, IA 52242 USA phone 319-353-1808 fax 319-335-1821 email chris-brochu AT uiowa.edu --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: strange goose (Leon) correct link From: "Zonya Gingrich" <ZGingrich AT gmail.com> Date: Tue, 7 Feb 2012 08:25:25 -0500 Sorry folks. The link I had in the post yesterday was incorrect. Here is the proper one. http://www.flickr.com/photos/74024107 AT N02/6833888057/in/photostream I suspect a barnacle goose/Canada goose hybrid, but I stand to be corrected. Thanks, Zonya --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: strange goose...hybrid barnacle goose? Leon From: "Zonya Gingrich" <ZGingrich AT gmail.com> Date: Mon, 6 Feb 2012 23:44:43 -0500 I spotted this strange goose with a flock of Canada Geese today. http://www.flickr.com/photos/upload/done/ It was on a pond southeast of Leon on the Lineville Road. I suspect a barnacle goose/Canada goose hybrid, but I stand to be corrected. Zonya --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Gulls at the Quad Cities From: jimforde AT q.com Date: Mon, 6 Feb 2012 23:14:22 -0500 (EST) Today gull numbers, especially Ring-billed Gulls, seemed to be on the increase. L&D 15 was good in the morning and L&D 14 had a surprising number of evening gulls flying the tailwaters. L&D 15 (Iowa)--1 Juv. Iceland Gull 1 Adult Thayer's Gull L&D 14 (Iowa)--1 Adult Kumlien's Gull 1 Juv. Iceland Gull 1 1W Great Black-backed Gull (also Ill.) 1 2W Lesser Black-backed Gull 2 Juv. Glaucous Gulls 2 Juv. Thayer's Gulls 1 Adult Thayer's Gull L&D 14 (Ill.)--2 1W Great Black-backed Gulls (both on dam) 1 Adult Lesser Black-backed Gull 1 Juv. Iceland/Thayer's Gull Jim Forde Cedar Rapids --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: RE: Cooper's, Iowa City From: "Kai Weatherman" <dainichi AT mchsi.com> Date: Mon, 6 Feb 2012 20:41:42 -0600 I've also been noticing the presence of Cooper's hawks in downtown Iowa City of late. I observed one swoop northward on Dubuque street between Van Allen Hall and the Biology Building, alighting atop a utility pole on the corner of Dubuque and Market Streets on Thursday, February 2. Then noticed a juvenile, presumably male by size atop an antenna on the Sheraton Hotel on Saturday, February 4. And on Sunday, the 5th, another flew into the courtyard between Phillips Hall and Biology Building, perching on the corner of the roof of the Sciences Library for a spell. The sightings were all midafternoon. The crows have been relatively scarce in this vicinity, having had a few of their kind dismembered within the courtyard over the last month or more. Kai Weatherman Iowa City -----Original Message----- From: bounce-ia-bird-2481301 AT lists.iowabirds.org [mailto:bounce-ia-bird-2481301 AT lists.iowabirds.org] On Behalf Of RG/KW Sent: Monday, February 06, 2012 3:36 PM To: IA-BIRD Subject: [ia-bird] Cooper's, Iowa City There's been a Cooper's Hawk hanging out on the Moen building of late. I imagine that was her in the back yard this morning, landing 10 feet above two feral cats. The smaller cat decided that under a car was the place to be, the larger cat held his ground. No drama ensued. --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: dainichi AT mchsi.com --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Recent Ames sightings. From: "Dinsmore, Stephen J [NREM]" <cootjr AT iastate.edu> Date: Tue, 7 Feb 2012 02:02:53 +0000 This evening I saw a male Merlin (columbarius subspecies) along 190th Street near our home in NW Ames. I've also enjoyed watching the waterfowl turnover at Ada Hayden Park in the last 2 weeks - a total of 9 species including Greater White-fronted Goose, Trumpeter Swan, the continuing American Black Duck, N. Pintail, Gadwall, and Ring-necked Duck. Steve ********** Stephen J. Dinsmore Department of Natural Resource Ecology & Management Iowa State University 339 Science II Ames, IA 50011 Phone: 515-294-1348 E-mail: cootjr AT iastate.edu Web: http://www.public.iastate.edu/~cootjr/ --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Cooper's, Iowa City From: RG/KW <rocky AT avalon.net> Date: Mon, 6 Feb 2012 15:36:13 -0600 There's been a Cooper's Hawk hanging out on the Moen building of late. I imagine that was her in the back yard this morning, landing 10 feet above two feral cats. The smaller cat decided that under a car was the place to be, the larger cat held his ground. No drama ensued. --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Krider's Red-Tail, West Des Moines From: "Leland Searles" <searleslr AT msn.com> Date: Mon, 6 Feb 2012 16:00:39 -0500 While out and about, I did a swerve and stop move because of a large hawk on a 50' high-tension line. It appears to have been a Krider's Red-Tailed Hawk. The head was light, almost golden at some angles, and whitish at others. Below the eyes were dark patches, reminiscent of a Peregrine's moustache marks, especially when the bird faced me head-on. The chest and belly were white with areas of reddish wash, and some feathers had delicate dark streaking. From below the tail had the classic rust-red, but I didn't get to view it in flight. Above, the wing feathers and scapulars had a medium brown color, along with the white one expects in the scapulars - the "backpack marks." The beak had the curve and yellow of an adult Red-Tail. I approached the pole and moved around its base to get photos with my 70-200mm zoom. The hawk watched me very intently but didn't budge. It also eyeballed a pigeon that flew a few feet past it. The bird was on Lincoln Road, on the north side of the Raccoon River, close to the light industrial area on Lincoln and, further west, near Raccoon River Park. Lincoln is a righthand (west) turn from 63rd Street (or 1st Street, West Des Moines numbering - same road), if you are headed south, the last paved road before the bridge. Also had my FOY Northern Cardinal song today, at Raccoon River Park. Lee Searles Des Moines --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Backyard Goldfinches - Cerro Gordo County From: "Bruce McKee" <bgmckee AT myclearwave.net> Date: Mon, 6 Feb 2012 11:02:16 -0600 (CST) We had a Goldfinch bomb drop on our backyard feeders Sunday. There were about 18-20 in their Winter plumage - very active at the finch feeders for about 10 minutes and in a flash they were gone. Bruce McKee Mason City --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: redpolls in Winnebago County From: "Lisa Ralls" <lralls AT winnebagoccb.com> Date: Mon, 6 Feb 2012 11:09:42 -0500 We finally spotted a redpoll at out thistle feeder at Thorpe Park, five miles west of Forest City. He was feeding with a group of goldfinches. Otherwise, the winter sightings here have been pretty ordinary, the only "notables" being some regular Harris, tree, and white-throated sparrows, and an occasional brown creeper or purple finch. Still looking for that elusive snowy owl! --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Quad Cities Great Black-backed Gulls From: Diana Pesek <keesiemom AT yahoo.com> Date: Mon, 6 Feb 2012 03:43:44 -0800 (PST) Sharing a message from Tommy Stone, who was also birding in the Quad Cities area yesterday. He took photos of the 1W Great Black-backed Gulls at L&D 14 and at Hampton, Illinois and confirms from the photos that they are 2 different birds. � Diana Pesek Cedar Rapids, Iowa --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Birding Update From: Carol & Jim Sinclair <caroljimsinclair AT yahoo.com> Date: Sun, 5 Feb 2012 17:21:54 -0800 (PST) A long ramble up the main creek at Ledges State Park today provided the following interesting birds: � Belted Kingfisher - 1 Pileated Woodpecker - 1 Brown Creeper - 1 Carolina Wren - 1 Winter Wren - 1 � From last week: � 1/31 at Diehl's Wetland - 21 White-fronted Geese 2/2 Diehl's Wetland 1 Killdeer and 1 Short-eared Owl � Jim --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Decorah Mouse From: Reid & Pam Allen <2birders AT hickorytech.net> Date: Sun, 05 Feb 2012 18:26:28 -0600 No eagle, but a mouse in the nest at Decorah. Reid Allen West Des Moines --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Quad Cities area Sunday From: Diana Pesek <keesiemom AT yahoo.com> Date: Sun, 5 Feb 2012 16:07:53 -0800 (PST) James Huntington and I did some birding in the Quad Cities today (Sunday 2-5-12). We didn't find any birds not previously reported, and did not relocate the Barrow's Goldeneye that has been reported from the area. Our highlights: --1W Great Black-backed Gull at L&D 14 --1W Glaucous Gull at L&D 14 --1W Great Black-backed Gull� along riverfront, Hampton, Illinois (same gull from L&D 14 that moved here, or different gull, not sure) --Franklin's Gull at Credit Island --4 White-winged Scoters near Iowa shoreline, viewed from Butterworth Park in East Moline � Diana Pesek Cedar Rapids, Iowa --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Johnston Pits Area From: Kevin Murphy <ktmurphy AT iastate.edu> Date: Sun, 5 Feb 2012 17:21:43 -0600 I took a brief stroll around the Johnston Pits in hopes of locating some Redpolls, unfortunately to no avail (a brief stop at the Saylorville Visitor Center was a bust as well). I did however find a flock of 30 Common Goldeneye on the "northeast" borrow pit as well as a lone American White Pelican perched on a log in the river. Kevin -- Kevin T. Murphy Graduate Assistant Department of Natural Resource Ecology & Management 43 Science II Building Iowa State University Ames, IA 50010 ktmurphy AT iastate.edu --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: RE: Bird misinformation published in THE DES MOINES REGISTER From: "Mick Zerr" <zerrm AT sio.midco.net> Date: Sun, 5 Feb 2012 16:40:24 -0600 Just a quick note on the lead shot raptor comment in the DE Register. A couple of years ago, a sick Bald Eagle was found at Leif Ericson Camp in Sioux Falls. He had eaten a goose carcass with lead shot in it and he died from lead poisoning a few days later. Mick Zerr ----- Original Message ----- From: Inger Lamb To: IA-BIRD Sent: Sunday, February 05, 2012 3:52 PM Subject: [ia-bird] RE: Bird misinformation published in THE DES MOINES REGISTER Interesting comment section on this article - hope the Register folks read it too... From: bounce-ia-bird-301557 AT lists.iowabirds.org [mailto:bounce-ia-bird-301557 AT lists.iowabirds.org] On Behalf Of Grantridge AT aol.com Sent: Saturday, February 04, 2012 4:06 PM To: IA-BIRD Subject: [ia-bird] Bird misinformation published in THE DES MOINES REGISTER The column below contains an impressive amount of misinformation packed in a few paragraphs. I hope that some Iowa conservation organization(s) will respond to this. In my opinion, it would be better for the REGISTER to give up their current pretense of outdoor coverage rather than publish "facts" like these. I'm grateful that the AMES TRIBUNE provides good, interesting outdoor journalism every single week, coverage that has an underlying conservation ethic. I wish the REGISTER would do the same. http://www.desmoinesregister.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2012302040044 Cindy Hildebrand grantridge AT aol.com Ames, IA 50010 "Winter is not a season, it's an occupation." (Sinclair Lewis) --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: ingerlamb3 AT mchsi.com --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: zerrm AT sio.midco.net --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Re: 2 firsts From: "chris jones" <cjones AT iasoybeans.com> Date: Sun, 5 Feb 2012 17:28:22 -0500 caterpillar probably made its chrysalis in the garage, and the warm days caused the metabolic processes to begin. I recall when I was a kid we had a live cecropia moth flying in the garage in the winter time. --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: RE: Bird misinformation published in THE DES MOINES REGISTER From: "Inger Lamb" <ingerlamb3 AT mchsi.com> Date: Sun, 5 Feb 2012 15:52:56 -0600 Interesting comment section on this article - hope the Register folks read it too... From: bounce-ia-bird-301557 AT lists.iowabirds.org [mailto:bounce-ia-bird-301557 AT lists.iowabirds.org] On Behalf Of Grantridge AT aol.com Sent: Saturday, February 04, 2012 4:06 PM To: IA-BIRD Subject: [ia-bird] Bird misinformation published in THE DES MOINES REGISTER The column below contains an impressive amount of misinformation packed in a few paragraphs. I hope that some Iowa conservation organization(s) will respond to this. In my opinion, it would be better for the REGISTER to give up their current pretense of outdoor coverage rather than publish "facts" like these. I'm grateful that the AMES TRIBUNE provides good, interesting outdoor journalism every single week, coverage that has an underlying conservation ethic. I wish the REGISTER would do the same. http://www.desmoinesregister.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2012302040044 Cindy Hildebrand grantridge AT aol.com Ames, IA 50010 "Winter is not a season, it's an occupation." (Sinclair Lewis) --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: ingerlamb3 AT mchsi.com --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Eurasian collared-dove Inquiry From: "Sarah Finley" <srhfnly AT dordt.edu> Date: Sun, 05 Feb 2012 13:58:24 -0600 I am a student doing a research project on the relative population densities of Eurasian collared-doves in northwest Iowa. I have completed several driving surveys in a number of different habitats (urban, suburban, forested, crop fields, and feedlots) but I have not had much luck finding them outside of a pair or two that I have found in Sioux Center on my college campus. Given these results, I believe that their density in this area is still pretty low so it would be helpful if I had a better idea of where other people have been seeing these birds. If anyone has seen them, I would greatly appreciate it if you could email me the location, number of birds, and habitat where you saw them, along with the date. Thanks! Sarah Finley, Sioux Center --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: 2 firsts From: "Beth Brown" <blbrown1 AT mchsi.com> Date: Sun, 5 Feb 2012 13:43:20 -0600 We have the first White-crowned Sparrows of the winter. And, I found a live Black swallowtail female butterfly on a gardening bag in our garage. I put it with our plants under our grow-lights in the garage with a sliced orange and apple. We will see if it lives. Where in the world did it come from? Beth Brown, Osceola --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: common redpolls at Saylorville Vis Ctr From: "chris jones" <cjones AT iasoybeans.com> Date: Sun, 5 Feb 2012 14:25:55 -0500 Large numbers of birds at the Saylorville Visitor Center today, including at least 3 common redpolls on the thistle feeders. Also, all the other usual suspects. --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Feeders This Morning, Des Moines From: "Leland Searles" <searleslr AT msn.com> Date: Sun, 5 Feb 2012 14:15:00 -0500 The weather change has kept the feeders hopping. At the feeders, or within sight and close enough to cause the feeding birds to react were: 2 adult Bald Eagles Red-Tailed Hawk male Red-Wing Blackbird female & male Hairy Woodpeckers Tufted Titmouse Black-Capped Chickadees up to 7 male & 4 female Cardinals female & male Downy Woodpeckers (up to 6 individuals) male Northern Flicker Dark-Eyed Juncos numerous American Goldfinches (recently as many as 17 at once) White-Breasted Nuthatches (est. 3 individuals) male & female House Finches (3 individuals, 1 female) Mourning Doves I suspect that the Red-Wing may be an early scout, caught off guard by the storm, as it hasn't been seen before. Lee Searles Des Moines --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Re: Bird misinformation published in THE DES MOINES REGISTER From: "Leland Searles" <searleslr AT msn.com> Date: Sun, 5 Feb 2012 14:06:25 -0500 The Register also carried an op-ed from Liz Garst that was chock full of good information, followed by a Register editorial, all within the last few days. Both pieces did their research on the costs of non-toxic versus lead ammo, and both stated the reasonable approach, which is to avoid putting a known toxin into the environment in the first place. I'm sorry I don't have the web addresses handy. I ready both in the paper version. Sometimes the Register can get it right on ecology and conservation. Lee Searles Des Moines --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Crossbills, Redpolls, Longspurs and Thnak yous. From: David Starrett <starrettda AT hotmail.com> Date: Sun, 5 Feb 2012 01:50:22 -0600 IA-Birders, I birded parts of Iowa the past couple of days. Thanks to Rick Hollis, Steve Dinsmore and especially Jim Fuller for detailed notes and directions on locating birds. While looking for the Snowy Owl (no show of course) at the Cedar Rapids airport I found a flock of Lapland Longspurs just west of the end of the runway. One redpoll was at the feeders at Kent Park Friday at about 4:15 p.m. Today (Saturday), I found 3 WW Crossbills at the Fairmount Cemetery right where Jim said they'd be. Looked like 2 immature males and one female. A couple from Illinois was there looking for them as well. Longspurs and Crossbills lifers for me. Could not pull anything but Herring, Ring-Billed and a couple of Great Black-backed out of 100's of gulls out of a dozen stop from L&Ds 14, 15 19 and parts in between. Saw a good variety of ducks. Didn't see any Barrow's, though wasn't looking for them specifically. Thanks! Dave ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ David Starrett Cape Girardeau, MO ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Bird misinformation published in THE DES MOINES REGISTER From: Grantridge AT aol.com Date: Sat, 4 Feb 2012 17:06:19 -0500 (EST) The column below contains an impressive amount of misinformation packed in a few paragraphs. I hope that some Iowa conservation organization(s) will respond to this. In my opinion, it would be better for the REGISTER to give up their current pretense of outdoor coverage rather than publish "facts" like these. I'm grateful that the AMES TRIBUNE provides good, in teresting outdoor journalism every single week, coverage that has an underlying conservation ethic. I wish the REGISTER would do the same. _http://www.desmoinesregister.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2012302040044_ (http://www.desmoinesregister.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2012302040044) Cindy Hildebrand grantridge AT aol.com Ames, IA 50010 "Winter is not a season, it's an occupation." (Sinclair Lewis) --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Red Poll Boone Co From: "Larry Dau" <lgdau AT netins.net> Date: Sat, 4 Feb 2012 12:17:37 -0600 Lots of activity at the feeders today with Tree Sparrow numbers nearing 100. I had a Common Red Poll come in with about 20 Goldfinches this morning. I am expecting the Savannah Sparrow to show up after several days absence. Larry Dau Boone County --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: F.W. Kent redpolls From: "Brochu, Christopher A" <chris-brochu AT uiowa.edu> Date: Sat, 4 Feb 2012 18:09:33 +0000 The common redpolls were at the feeders in front of the Conservation Ed Center at F.W. Kent Park this morning. Christopher A. Brochu Associate Professor Department of Geoscience University of Iowa Iowa City, IA 52242 USA phone 319-353-1808 fax 319-335-1821 email chris-brochu AT uiowa.edu --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Re: 2012 estimated income and expenses From: d5169 AT aol.com Date: Sat, 4 Feb 2012 13:47:10 +0000 Thks Sent on the Sprint� Now Network from my BlackBerry� -----Original Message----- From: "Walt Zuurdeeg" Date: Fri, 3 Feb 2012 19:02:51 To: Bernadene Bowles; Bob Johanssen; Brent Langley; Carol Rogers; Cathy Konrad - home; Cathy Konrad - work; Dick Sayles; ia-bird; Janelle Swanberg; Jason Monson; JoAnn Whitmore; Linda Boardsen; Mary Lou Petersen; Pat Carlson; Patrice Johanssen Reply-To: kaisersosa AT earthlink.net Subject: 2012 estimated income and expenses In case you have nothing better to do, attached is the worksheet I put together for the 2012 estimated income and expenses. Walt >W���(���n�^ʋ��(!�)��(��b�ح��'�&���jɞ����f�z+A��b�!jyޖ���i��֭��ߢ�QK�E*�v*.���f��ǥy�b�w!jyޗ��j[^�v�zǥy�b�w!jyޗ��N�����x%��b��h��+y������x���h�+-�I�s�����j�����z��w��m���������(����k �zƬ�(���r��z{e�˛���m�m�&���Z�;"��ۊ�b� '��z Subject: International Festival of Owls - Houston, MN [No Sightings] From: Alan Stankevitz <alan AT iwishicouldfly.com> Date: Sat, 04 Feb 2012 06:38:47 -0600 Denver Holt, founder of the Owl Research Institute in Charlo, Montana, has been studying Snowy Owls on their breeding grounds in Alaska for 20 years, so it's highly fitting that he will be the keynote speaker at the International Festival of Owls March 2-4, 2012 in Houston, MN during this grand irruption year. Joining him on the Festival's speaker roster are: -Prof. Dr. Michael Wink from Germany, who has studied DNA of most of the world's owl species and did the work that lumps Snowy Owls into the same genus as Great Horned Owls -Tracy Eccles from South Africa, writer and host of the Potted Plant Owl cam -Laura Erickson from Duluth, MN - radio personality, writer, speaker, and author who most recently authored the book "Twelve Owls" -Karla Bloem from Houston, MN - the authority on Great Horned Owl vocalizations There is still time to enter the amateur digital owl photography contest before the February 15 deadline. First prize is $100! The outdoor photography sessions with the owls are all sold out, however. There will be bus trips on Friday evening to call in wild owls (no pre-registration needed), and a Sunday morning Birding and Natural History Bus Trip that concludes with lunch at the local German restaurant (registration required). We hope to be able to show a nesting Great Horned Owl on the Sunday trip, and we'll keep tabs on the Snowy Owls to see if there are any in the neighborhood that weekend. Roosting Screech-Owls are also possible on that trip. The four live owl programs during the Festival will be presented by the Illinois Raptor Center and will include seven species of owls: Snowy, Great Horned, Barred, Long-eared, Short-eared, Eastern Screech- (both red and gray), and a flying Barn Owl. Please note that only half the owls will be shown in each one hour program, and that the Saturday morning program is sometimes standing room only! For more information or to register for the Festival, go to www.festivalofowls.com . It's the only full-weekend, all-owl event in North America! --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Iowa RBA: 2-3-12 From: John and Anna Bissell <john.annabissell AT gmail.com> Date: Fri, 3 Feb 2012 19:37:55 -0600 Iowa RBA birds reported from Saturday, January 28, through Friday, February 3, 2012: -RARE Species Mentioned (documentation required) ACCIDENTAL: **BULLOCKS ORIOLE** CASUAL: *GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULL* *ICELAND GULL* -Additional Species Mentioned Tundra Swan (Central) Surf Scoter Long-tailed Duck Sandhill Crane Franklins Gull Bonapartes Gull Thayers Gull Lesser Black-backed Gull Snowy Owl Short-eared Owl White-winged Crossbill Common Redpoll ***NEW!**************** For more up to date information on rarities in the state of Iowa, visit the Iowa Birds and Birding website at www.iowabirds.org. A list of rare birds is placed on the home page with the location of the rarity and most recent date of observation. This is updated several times per day. This is a handy tool for anyone making a birding trip or otherwise into the state of Iowa. ************************ Species in ALL CAPS can be classified into three categories in the state of Iowa: 1) UNRECORDED, ACCIDENTAL or Casual; 2) A RARE but regular species; or 3) record early or late date or unusual for time of year. Any species with three asterisks (***species***) would represent a first record for Iowa (UNRECORDED) and should be observed and documented very carefully. Species with two asterisks (**species**) are species that are either ACCIDENTAL, CASUAL, or a rare regular species, and should also be documented. Species with one asterisk (*species) should have some details of the observation provided. *EAST*: SCOTT COUNTY: A GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULL and 3 BONAPARTES GULLS were seen at Lock and Dam 14 on the 28th. 3 WHITE-WINGED CROSSBILLS were seen at Fairmount Cemetery on the 28th. 6 were there on the 29th. Highlights from Lock and Dam 14 on the 29th included GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULL, 2 THAYERS GULLS, ICELAND GULL, LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL, and 4 BONAPARTES GULLS. A LONG-TAILED DUCK was seen at Lindsey Park on the 29th. A THAYERS GULL was seen at Lock and Dam 15 on the 30th. A GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULL and 2 BONAPARTES GULLS were seen at Lock and Dam 14 on the 30th. JOHNSON COUNTY: A COMMON REDPOLL was seen at a feeder in Iowa City on the 29th. COMMON REDPOLLS were seen at the Kent Park conservation feeders on the 29th. They were last seen on the 3rd. LINN COUNTY: A LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL was seen at Cedar Lake on the 31st. This bird was last seen on the 2nd. A SHORT-EARED OWL was seen near the Eastern Iowa Airport on the 2nd. *SOUTHEAST*: WAPELLO COUNTY: A BULLOCKS ORIOLE was seen in Gail Masinda’s yard in Ottumwa on the 29th. It has been spending the winter attending her feeders. If you’d like to visit and see this bird, please email Gail at gail.masinda AT yahoo.com LEE COUNTY: Highlights from Pool 19 on the 29th included SURF SCOTER, 4 LONG-TAILED DUCKS, FRANKLINS GULL, BONAPARTES GULL, LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL, and ICELAND GULL. *SOUTH CENTRAL*: MADISON COUNTY: A TUNDRA SWAN was seen at Maffitt Reservoir on the 29th. *CENTRAL:* * * *POLK COUNTY:* *A SNOWY OWL was seen just north of Ankeny off Irvinedale Dr. (also called NW 16th) on NW 134th Ave on the 28th. This bird was last seen on the 29th.* * * *JASPER COUNTY:* *A SHORT-EARED OWL was seen along 102nd Ave at Neal Smith NWR on the 30th.* * * * * * * * * *SOUTHWEST:* * * *FREMONT COUNTY:* *19 SANDHILL CRANES were seen southeast of the WMA field on the south side of 315th St on the 30th.* * * *A SNOWY OWL was seen just west of 370th Ave on 230th St near Farragut on the 1st.* * * * * * * * * *WEST:* * * *MONONA COUNTY:* *A SNOWY OWL was seen just south of the Whiting overpass on the east side of I-29 on the 27th. This bird was last seen on the 28th.* * * *POTTAWATTAMIE COUNTY:* *4 COMMON REDPOLLS were seen at Graceland Cemetery in Avoca on the 1st.* * * * * * * * * *NORTHWEST:* * * *WEBSTER COUNTY:* *25 WHITE-WINGED CROSSBILLS and 30 COMMON REDPOLLS were seen at John F Kennedy Park on the 28th. These birds were last seen on the 29th.* * * *O BRIEN COUNTY:* *75 WHITE-WINGED CROSSBILLS were seen at the cemetery in Hartley on the 28th .* * * *WOODBURY COUNTY:* *6 SHORT-EARED OWLS were seen at Owego on the 30th.* * * *SAC COUNTY:* *A SNOWY OWL was seen on 180th St between Ira St and Jackson St on the 30th. * * * *A SNOWY OWL was seen 250 yard SW of Ira Ave and Highway 20 on the 31st.* * * * * * * * * ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ The next scheduled report of the Iowa Rare Bird Alert will be for Friday, February 10, 2012 for the weekly report. Should any UNRECORDED or ACCIDENTAL species be reported, an update will be posted. John Bissell Grimes, Iowa john.annabissell AT gmail.com 515-986-9796 --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Bald Eagles: south of Leon From: "Zonya Gingrich" <ZGingrich AT gmail.com> Date: Fri, 3 Feb 2012 18:00:48 -0500 Spotted two adult bald eagles in the tree across from my parent's house this morning. 5 miles south of Leon on Pleasanton Road. --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Ducks on Coralville Res, Spring is Coming From: Rick Hollis <xiboia AT earthlink.net> Date: Fri, 3 Feb 2012 14:27:10 -0600 (GMT-06:00) Subject: Common Redpolls continue at F.W. Kent Park - Johnson County From: "Jason McCurdy" <jasondmccurdy AT gmail.com> Date: Fri, 3 Feb 2012 14:31:25 -0500 Over the lunch hour today I counted at least six Common Redpolls visiting the finch feeders at the Conservation Education Center at F.W. Kent Park. Also present was a single Eurasian Tree Sparrow mixed in with a flock of House Sparrows. Jason McCurdy Coralville --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Short-eared Owl at Eastern Iowa Airport From: jimforde AT q.com Date: Thu, 2 Feb 2012 19:51:58 -0500 (EST) Tonight I failed to relocate the Snowy Owl at the airport but also saw the SHORT-EARED OWL that has been posted. It flew across a stubble field (north side of Walford Rd. and east side of Cherry Valley Rd.) at 5 p.m. Then it perched on a fence post along the north side of the field until dark. I scoped it from the high spot of Walford Rd. just east of the intersection. Also present was a Great Horned Owl in the area. Jim Forde Cedar Rapids --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Lesser Black-Backed Gull at Cedar Lake From: Diana Pesek <keesiemom AT yahoo.com> Date: Thu, 2 Feb 2012 15:53:15 -0800 (PST) Stopped by Cedar Lake (Cedar Rapids) after work around 5 p.m. and relocated the Lesser Black-backed Gull reported by Jim Forde a couple of days ago. Tonight it was on the private lake (lake with the lighthouse) with a small number of Ring-billeds and Herrings. Also present were Common Goldeneye and a Hooded Merganser pair. � Diana Pesek Cedar Rapids, Iowa --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: E. Ia. Airport Snowy Owl -- NO, Short-Eared Owl -- YES From: "Michele Francis" <michele_francis AT mchsi.com> Date: Thu, 2 Feb 2012 18:51:05 -0500 Looking for snowy, spotted a large raptor hunting low to ground. With help of a good camera and field guides identified our first-ever short-eared owl! Beautiful! As others have noted, backyard birds seem to be singing springtime songs. Especially the titmice who are piping, piping, piping. Michele Francis Cedar Rapids/Marion --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Re: It's beginning to sound a lot like spring...Decatur Co. From: mp410wj AT q.com Date: Thu, 2 Feb 2012 17:45:03 -0500 (EST) Noticed the cardinals singing loudly yesterday in Ankeny. Maridel ----- Original Message ----- From: Zonya Gingrich To: IA-BIRD Sent: Thu, 02 Feb 2012 11:31:18 -0500 (EST) Subject: [ia-bird] It's beginning to sound a lot like spring...Decatur Co. This morning, there are flocks of robins hanging out in the trees and lawn behind our house. Had a yellow rumped warbler in our tree just off the deck. More bluebirds. I think the birds think it is spring! Yesterday, I saw what I am quite sure is the rough legged hawk that has been hanging around for a few weeks. Also, saw two other hawks on the gravel road back to our place. One, I think is a Harlan's Redtail, and the other a dark morph redtail. If anyone wants to confirm, check out my photo stream on flickr. http://www.flickr.com/photos/74024107 AT N02/ The first three pictures are the bird I think is the dark morph and the next three are the Harlan's. The dark morph flew from the tree to the pole. All pictures taken close to 10 am. --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: mp410wj AT q.com --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Quad-Cities From: Robinson Donald G <RobinsonDonaldG AT JohnDeere.com> Date: Thu, 2 Feb 2012 13:37:45 -0600 At noon today I re-checked the Hemlocks at the Hampton (IL) cemetery to see if the WW Crossbills had spread over from Davenport, as they did a few years back with the last invasion. A large flock of Pine Siskins remain, but still no crossbills. I was thinking about the crossbills: Why is it that so many of the "winter finches" are splashed with various shades of pink (WW Crossbills, Pine Grosbeaks, Purple Finches, Redpolls, Rosy Finches)??? It is easy to imagine how white birds and mammals have been selected in the snowy climates, but what possible advantage would the shades of pink/red/purple afford? On the River up from the I-80 bridge (Rapid City) there were large numbers of Canvasbacks right up by the shore . . . a surreal sight in the bright sunny/fog. The channel was beyond sight, where I presume the Goldeneye were, so I could not check for any Barrow's. Don Robinson, Bettendorf --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Saylorville birds From: Danny Akers <birdmandan1231 AT hotmail.com> Date: Thu, 2 Feb 2012 12:53:03 -0600 Hi All, I stopped for a bit on the lower end of Saylorville Reservoir after class this morning. I watched the feeders at the Visitor Center for about 30 minutes, hoping for a Common Redpoll, but to no avail. That said, of note was a female Eastern Towhee and a Yellow-rumped Warbler. It was fun to see and hear up to 5 Tufted Titmice too. A few Mallards were below the spillway, as was a single American White Pelican, a Barred Owl, and a pair of Eastern Bluebirds. Danny AkersAnkenyBirdManDan1231 AT hotmail.com --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Ottumwa Courier article on Bullock's Oriole From: "Hank Zaletel" <madowl AT midiowa.net> Date: Thu, 2 Feb 2012 12:33:18 -0500 Go to: http://ottumwacourier.com/local/x1500479579/Rare-oriole-visit-in-odd-Iowa-winter Hank Zaletel Nevada --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: It's beginning to sound a lot like spring...Decatur Co. From: "Zonya Gingrich" <ZGingrich AT gmail.com> Date: Thu, 2 Feb 2012 11:31:18 -0500 This morning, there are flocks of robins hanging out in the trees and lawn behind our house. Had a yellow rumped warbler in our tree just off the deck. More bluebirds. I think the birds think it is spring! Yesterday, I saw what I am quite sure is the rough legged hawk that has been hanging around for a few weeks. Also, saw two other hawks on the gravel road back to our place. One, I think is a Harlan's Redtail, and the other a dark morph redtail. If anyone wants to confirm, check out my photo stream on flickr. http://www.flickr.com/photos/74024107 AT N02/ The first three pictures are the bird I think is the dark morph and the next three are the Harlan's. The dark morph flew from the tree to the pole. All pictures taken close to 10 am. --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Eurasian Tree Sparrows in Iowa City From: "Julie Englander" <englander.julie AT gmail.com> Date: Thu, 2 Feb 2012 10:37:42 -0500 This morning at about 9:30 I saw three Eurasian Tree Sparrows in my yard in Iowa City. --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: looking for birding spots From: David Starrett <starrettda AT hotmail.com> Date: Wed, 1 Feb 2012 23:46:01 -0600 IA-Birders, I'm looking for advice on some good birding spots. I will be finishing some business in Fayette about noon on Friday and drving down to Iowa City that afternoon. Are there any snow owls tha I could look for roughly between those two locations? I know the locations chnage, hoping something would be seeable. Also, Snow Buntings and WW Crossbills are on my target list. Jim Fuller and Steve Dinsmere have given me some very detailed advice on birding Saturday when I will look for WW Crossbills in Fairmount cemetery and gulls et al along the river down to Keokuk. Would love to find some good birds Friday, particaulry given the nasty weather that may put a crimp on Saturday birindg. Thanks in advance for any advice, suggestions, etc., Dave ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ David Starrett Cape Girardeau, MO ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Johnson Co. redpolls From: "Linda & Robert Scarth" <scarth AT infionline.net> Date: Wed, 1 Feb 2012 22:32:30 -0600 Thanks to Rick Hollis for his advice on the Redpolls at Kent Park. After a "long sit" this afternoon several came in. We just posted a blog entry with one image. We need to go back to get closer. Linda Linda & Robert Scarth 1630 Wildwood Dr. NE Cedar Rapids, IA 52402 319-366-6817 scarth AT infionline.net www.scarthphoto.com blog: www.scarthphoto.com/wp/ --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Cackling Geese From: Danny Akers <birdmandan1231 AT hotmail.com> Date: Wed, 1 Feb 2012 20:18:34 -0600 Hi All, While tearing around with the dog in the backyard this evening, I was surprised to hear some high pitched honking overhead. I looked up and behold a flock of 45 Cackling Geese was flying to the northwest with a handful of Canada mixed in. Three days of 60 F + temps, House Finches and Northern Cardinals singing, and the Magnolia tree in our front yard is budding out. Here and I thought it was spring until my phone reminded me it's only February 1st. Danny AkersAnkenyBirdManDan1231 AT hotmail.com --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: QCA birding: Franklin's Gull From: "Chuck Leib" <cwleib AT aol.com> Date: Wed, 1 Feb 2012 20:38:45 -0500 Greetings, After stopping to scope some gulls from Ben Butterworth Parkway (Moline, IL) during my lunch break today, I was surprised to see a Franklin's Gull among some Herring and Ring-billed Gulls resting near the middle of the Mississippi channel. Chuck Leib cwleib AT aol.com --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Ankeny Snowy - No From: "Ty Smedes" <ty.smedes AT smedesphoto.com> Date: Wed, 1 Feb 2012 18:53:25 -0600 This afternoon I cruised the roads within the triangle between Ankeny, Alleman, and Polk City, but did NOT relocate the Snowy. Ty Smedes ty.smedes AT smedesphoto.com Ty Smedes Nature Photography 4732 72nd Street Urbandale Iowa 50322-1148 phone: 515-270-9086 --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Redpolls and NE day trip From: matt AT naturebymatt.com Date: Wed, 1 Feb 2012 23:24:35 +0000 Birders, On the return from a successful day trip to see the Common Crane in NE (as well as a sweet fly-by of my arch nemesis, prairie falcon), Shaun Chandler, Megan Cook, and I found 4 Common Redpolls in the Graceland Cemetery in Avoca. There are already several thousand Sandhill Cranes south of Grand Island. Bird on... Matt Sent from my U.S. Cellular BlackBerry� smartphone�y�r���&�쨺�"�b�-����+-�ج�yrj�(�֬��z�&jG���v)�r���ky�&���jب��+��R��b��>��j��zW��*'r���y�F����j׬zW��*'r���z�D�ɚ�X��X��+,��좷�o+ax�0h���h��"���*'1�z�!���j)ZnW��X�y�a��� 0��n*ݲ���*.����j�qb����.����\����&�v�"i��u�#�)^���v)�{azw� Subject: Glendale Cemetery, Des Moines From: "Leland Searles" <searleslr AT msn.com> Date: Wed, 1 Feb 2012 18:09:08 -0500 During errands, I stopped at Glendale Cemetery (University and 56th) to see if a Merlin would show itself. This was my third or fourth visit, always at the wrong time of day (evenings are best). I found one in a tree at or near the same spot on the south edge of the Masonic Cemetery section. She sat as I turned a corner and even got out. Finally she flew away. I got photos from the back and from two positions in front. One in-flight photo is quite crisp. On the other side of the cemetery, many crows were gathered (a "murder," as a flock of crows is called). I had windows down and heard a very unusual sound from the crows in the trees. My first thought was, raven? I got photos of the bird, which was noticeably larger than the crows. The sound was not the classic raven croak. At home I checked the whatbird.com site for other vocalizations. The one I heard closely matched the third vocal sound for the Common Raven. I got one decent photo as the bird took flight, showing the tail. It was not wedge-shaped as one would expect, but I could see a lot of wear at the ends of the central tail feathers. So tail shape doesn't rule out a Common Raven in my thinking. My confidence, all factors included, is about 85-90% that it's a Common Raven. Lee Searles Des Moines --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Farragut Snowy Owl From: Keith Dyche <kadd27 AT hotmail.com> Date: Wed, 1 Feb 2012 07:26:31 -0600 The Snowy Owl was present yesterday at 5:00 P.M. just west of 370th Ave on 230th St. Keith dyche --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Coralville Rez, Long Eared Owls From: RG/KW <rocky AT avalon.net> Date: Tue, 31 Jan 2012 19:25:25 -0600 More by chance than design, I found myself across the river from last week's long eared owls. Was standing on a deer path soaking up sun when here comes a young deer running flat out right at me. Not trusting his intentions, I whacked him with my hiking stick. He swerved around and continued down the trail like I wasn't there. A hundred yards further while standing in one spot I started seeing raptors; a flying male N. Harrier (my second of the day), a beautiful perched GH Owl, a few trees over sits a colorful RL Hawk, a RT Hawk flies over, then a female Kestrel, I hear a Barred Owl, then another GH Owl flies over. Do you think there may be some rodents about? I have a hunch the GH Owls are nesting in that large dead cottonwood V snag on the north river bank. I walked another hundred yards to directly across from last week's flukey sighting. Scoped the area and of course saw nothing. I turned and walked twenty yards into the willow thicket and bam, deja vu with better light. I tried to be a better observer this time. I would guess 10 not 8 in number. Marked the GPS and slowly walked after them. Had some fleeting glances but it was obvious that face time wasn't going to happen. Sat down to listen and heard those very soft pleasant "who who"s. I'm pretty sure I've heard that before. No more contact but some Blue Jays up ahead were agitated. Access is from Amana Road NW. If you're interested in a four mile bushwhack in the mud, here are the coordinates: N41^47.411 W91^47.429. Watch out for crazy deer. --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Lesser Black-backed Gull at Cedar Rapids From: jimforde AT q.com Date: Tue, 31 Jan 2012 18:41:57 -0500 (EST) A flock of gulls have returned to Cedar Lake after a month's absence. An adult LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL, 24 Herring Gulls, and 2 Ring-billed Gulls were resting on the eastern portions of the lake this evening. Jim Forde Cedar Rapids --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: SAC COUNTY SNOWY OWL From: "Chad Lankford" <clanky AT frontiernet.net> Date: Tue, 31 Jan 2012 18:17:03 -0500 This morning about 9 am I located a snowy 250 yard SW of Ira and 220th(HWY 20). I don't know if it is the same one as yesterday as I didn't have time to stop and investigate. Chad --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Red-shouldered Hawk in Cedar Rapids From: drbeel AT mchsi.com Date: Tue, 31 Jan 2012 21:12:39 +0000 Birders This afternoon I visited my mother, who's older than I am and lives at the Methwick retirement and assisted living facility in NW Cedar Rapids. From her front porch on this April-like day I spotted an adult Red-shouldered Hawk in a stately oak. This is only the 2nd RSHA I have found in Linn County. Bill Scheible Cedar Rapids Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: bird guide in Jamaica From: "Sue Yeakel" <syeakel AT iowatelecom.net> Date: Tue, 31 Jan 2012 14:18:04 -0600 Does anyone know a birding group or guide in Jamaica? thanx, Sue --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Common Redpolls Continue in Johnson Co. From: jimforde AT q.com Date: Tue, 31 Jan 2012 14:57:32 -0500 (EST) After an hour's wait this morning the Common Redpolls finally showed up at the Conservation Education Center, located at the northeast section of Kent Park. They numbered a dozen or so and covered the small tree and thistle feeder at the front entrance. The Eurasian Tree Sparrow was at the feeders on the backside. Jim Forde Cedar Rapids --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Co Redpolls, kent p From: Rick Hollis <xiboia AT earthlink.net> Date: Tue, 31 Jan 2012 13:05:11 -0600 3 of have been watching 15-20 redpolls at the front feeders at the CEC, Kent P, Johnaon Co. They were on and under the feeders and across the parkjng lot behind us as we watched. Rick Hollis. North Liberty IA --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Des Moines birds From: "Denny Thompson" <cndthomps AT acm.org> Date: Tue, 31 Jan 2012 13:59:52 -0500 I visited Glendale cemetery this morning looking for Crossbills, but no luck. I did have a couple of Red-breasted Nuthatches near the Masonic Cemetery sign. A walk down the Bill Riley trail in Ashworth Park yielded Pileated Woodpecker, Song Sparrow, and Harris's Sparrow. Denny Thompson Johnston --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Quad Cities Scoters and Gulls From: jimforde AT q.com Date: Mon, 30 Jan 2012 23:57:24 -0500 (EST) Today whitecaps on the river made for poor waterfowl scoping but prior to the wind I managed to scope 4 WHITE-WINGED SCOTERS along the opposite (Iowa) shore from Butterworth Parkway. Modest concentrations of gulls were found at these locations; L&D 15 (Iowa)--1 Juv. Thayer's Gull (frosty) L&D 14 (Iowa)--1 1W Great Black-backed Gull 2 Bonaparte's Gulls Hampton, Ill.--2 Juv. Thayer's/Iceland Gulls 1 Juv. Thayer's Gull (dark) 1 Adult Thayer's Gull Butterworth Parkway, Ill.--1 Juv. Glaucous Gull Jim Forde Cedar Rapids --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: SAC COUNTY SNOWY OWL From: "Chad Lankford" <clanky AT frontiernet.net> Date: Mon, 30 Jan 2012 21:13:19 -0500 IT WAS LAST VIEWED ON 180TH BETWEEN IRA AND JACKSON ABOUT A QUATER OF A MILE NORTH OF THE ROAD. --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Owls today From: Don Poggensee <donpog AT netllc.net> Date: Mon, 30 Jan 2012 20:07:24 -0600 Hi, I had a gentleman from Huron, S.D. down today, in hopes of seeing and photographing our Northern Saw-whet owls in Moorehead Park. We were able to find the same four that we have been seeing the past several months. Moorehead Park is just west of Ida Grove on the north side of Hwy 59 / 175, as you are heading west out of town. A trip to Woodbury County Owego Wetland, found 6 short-eared owls, two N. Harriers, and one N. Shrike this afternoon. The short- eared owls seem to like to come out about one hour before sunset. Don Poggensee Ida Grove, Iowa 51445-8088 712-364-3491 --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Bluebird checking nestbox - Spring? From: "Larry Dau" <lgdau AT netins.net> Date: Mon, 30 Jan 2012 11:56:01 -0600 Bluebirds must think it is spring. Saw my first bluebird in the last couple of months and he was going in and out of nest boxes across the street from my house. Also, had a Rough-legged Hawk in the area. Larry Dau Boone Co --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Redpolls still at Kent Park, Johnson Co. From: "Kyle Belcher" <k-belcher AT hotmail.com> Date: Mon, 30 Jan 2012 16:53:24 -0500 4 COMMON REDPOLLS were still at the feeders at the Kent Park Conservation Building, Johnson Co. at 3 PM on Monday. Kyle Belcher, Iowa City, IA --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Neal Smith Short-eared owl From: "Kyle Belcher" <k-belcher AT hotmail.com> Date: Mon, 30 Jan 2012 16:51:30 -0500 When passing through Des Moines on Saturday, we stopped at Neal Smith NWR, and saw 1 hunting SHORT-EARED OWL at dusk. It was on the east side of Pacific St. before the first stop sign. Very neat! --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Re: Ankeney Snowy brief sighting From: mp410wj AT q.com Date: Mon, 30 Jan 2012 14:37:10 -0500 (EST) The story of my life is I HAVE NOT SEEN IT(?) YET!>) I guess the question I have is: "are there more than one in the area"? I know they move around as they hunt but we are talking a 5 mile area here. Just curious... Maridel Jackson Ankeny ----- Original Message ----- From: Sandra Cook To: IA-BIRD Sent: Sun, 29 Jan 2012 21:12:29 -0500 (EST) Subject: [ia-bird] Ankeney Snowy brief sighting Briefly saw the Ankeney snowy owl around 9:30 this morning off of 110th St. She flew in a residential area and we lost sight of her. Sandra Cook Iowa City IA --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: mp410wj AT q.com --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Short-eared Owl--Neal Smith NWR From: Karen_VisteSparkman AT fws.gov Date: Mon, 30 Jan 2012 12:14:16 -0600 This morning as I drove in while it was still dark I flushed a SHORT-EARED OWL off the road on 102nd Ave. near the maintenance building--same area I saw them last week. ******************************************** Karen Viste-Sparkman Refuge Biologist Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge PO Box 399 9981 Pacific Street Prairie City, IA 50228 515-994-3400 --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: exciting event From: "Beth Brown" <blbrown1 AT mchsi.com> Date: Mon, 30 Jan 2012 10:28:29 -0600 I stepped down the lower steps to make a Barred Owl call to listen for a response from 2 owls I released yesterday. A Cooper's Hawk came swooping in from about 60 feet away and nearly took my head off. It was an exciting few seconds. Guess I was believable...to a Cooper's anyway. The barreds did not respond. Beth Brown, Clarke Co. --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net Subject: Red-tailed Hawk nest From: "Zenitsky, Gary D [B M S]" <zenitsky AT iastate.edu> Date: Mon, 30 Jan 2012 15:52:14 +0000 I observed RTHA on nest ~3.5 miles south of I-35/Hwy 30 interchange. It's on west side where I-35 intersects woodland corridor that's ~1 mile south of Skunk River. It's in tree bordering field, and absent of foliage, nest is easily seen even at hwy speeds. Gary Zenitsky Biomedical Sciences 2008 Vet Med Iowa State University Ames, IA 50011 515-294-7473 --- Please contribute your sightings to our list; it is only as good as members make it! --- Birding channel recommendation for FRS/GMRS radio use: Primary selection; channel 5/0 , alternate selection; channel 6/0 --- This mailing list is sponsored by the Iowa Ornithologists' Union. Membership available on-line at http://www.iowabirds.org/iou/PayDues.aspx. ----- You are currently subscribed to ia-bird as: jsiler AT birdingonthe.net