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10 Oct Franklin's Gull ["agbishops" ] 10 Oct Fall migrants at the MU, Carrizo Plain ["Kathy Sharum" ] 9 Oct Fall Morro Bay Shorebird Survey - volunteers requested! ["JONES, Andrea" ] 9 Oct Broad-winged Hawk, few other raptors ["Brad Schram" ] 9 Oct Morro Coast Audubon Nipomo Dunes Field Trip ["Mike Stiles" ] 8 Oct Least Flycatcher Report ["Brad Schram" ] 08 Oct Oceano - Prothonotary Warbler [Maggie Smith ] 07 Oct Meadow Creek Sapsuckers, 10/7/08 [David Lawrence ] 7 Oct Re: Hummingbird Migration ["Michael T. Hanson" ] 7 Oct RE: Hummingbird Migration ["Mike Stiles" ] 07 Oct Re: Hummingbird Migration [] 07 Oct Hummingbird Migration ["songbirdmama16" ] 6 Oct RE: Oct. 12 Elfin Forest Big Sit ["Steve Jobst MD" ] 06 Oct Oct. 12 Elfin Forest Big Sit [] 6 Oct Migrants in the Air ["Brad Schram" ] 6 Oct Montana de Oro - Sunday [] 5 Oct Spooners Cove Campground [] 5 Oct Oceano Campground ["Michael D. Stiles" ] 4 Oct Hi Mountain Condor Lookout Project annual open house 10/11/08 [] 3 Oct Commmon Murre at Tidelands Park ["Betty McElhill" ] 03 Oct Sabine's Gull ["calpolyio" ] 02 Oct Re: Location of Guadalupe Sewage Plant ["Jamie Chavez" ] 2 Oct Location of Guadalupe Sewage Plant [Kathryn Parker ] 02 Oct Black skimmer ["docentjoyce" ] 1 Oct Oceano Oct. 1 ["Brad Schram" ] 30 Sep Prothonotary Warbler Photo [Maggie Smith ] 30 Sep Harlequin Duck Continues at Estero Bluffs [] 30 Sep Bobolink at Islay Creek Mouth 9/26 [] 29 Sep Tropical Kingbird/Prothonotary Warbler [Maggie Smith ] 29 Sep MCAS Pelagic Trip Oct 5 [Maggie Smith ] 29 Sep Oceano Birds and Morro Bay State Park CHESNUT-SIDED WARBLER 9/28/08 ["svillebirder" ] 28 Sep Oceano birds 9/28 [Maggie Smith ] 28 Sep Osprey ["Chris C" ] 28 Sep Re: Commic Tern at Oso Flaco creek mouth ["Brad Schram" ] 28 Sep Commic Tern at Oso Flaco creek mouth ["Mark Brown" ] 27 Sep Oceano 9-27 ["Brad Schram" ] 27 Sep Important Bird Area (IBA) Presentation ["jansurbey" ] 26 Sep Pismo Beach amazing spectacle [] 26 Sep Blackpoll [] 25 Sep Permission to use pictures ["Ron Melcer" ] 25 Sep Sweet Springs ["docentjoyce" ] 25 Sep Cuesta Ridge [Alan Schmierer ] 25 Sep Chestnut-sided Warbler ["Oscar Johnson" ] 24 Sep Montana de Oro birds 9/24 [Maggie Smith ] 24 Sep Prothonotary & Juvenile Sora ["Linda Tanner" ] 23 Sep Re: Tropical Kingbird [Maggie Smith ] 23 Sep Tropical Kingbird [Maggie Smith ] 23 Sep Oceano 9-23 ["Brad Schram" ] 23 Sep PROTHONOTARY WARBLER [Alan Schmierer ] 23 Sep Northern Waterthrush, Santa Rosa Creek ["Adam Searcy" ] 22 Sep Prothonotary warbler 9/22/08 ["birderjaime" ] 22 Sep Oso Flaco ["Brad Schram" ] Subject: Franklin's Gull From: "agbishops" <agbishops AT hotmail.com> Date: Fri, 10 Oct 2008 20:39:08 -0000 We sighted a Franklin's Gull in amongst all the other gulls on the East side of the Oceano Park Lagoon - across the street from the campground - on Thursday, October 9, 2008. Subject: Fall migrants at the MU, Carrizo Plain From: "Kathy Sharum" <ksharum AT wildblue.net> Date: Fri, 10 Oct 2008 18:49:49 -0000 Ahead of the winds which began at about 10:30AM today,we had a number of migrants here yesterday and more today. When including our regulars here at the Ranch, there are over 20 species. The most interesting bird of note yesterday was a vireo that I could only identify as either Plumbeous, Cassin's or Blue-headed. No pictures unfortunately. Today I am seeing our first thrush for the fall. The call sounds like a Hermit; is it too early? Other migrants include Common yellowthroat, Wilson's, yellow-rumped and yellow warblers. Kathy Sharum Carrizo Plain National Monument Subject: Fall Morro Bay Shorebird Survey - volunteers requested! From: "JONES, Andrea" <ajones AT audubon.org> Date: Thu, 9 Oct 2008 20:13:25 -0400 It's that time of year again! Audubon is again coordinating the fall shorebird survey with PRBO. The survey date has been set for Saturday, November 15 from 10 a.m. to noon. Both experienced and beginner birders welcome - we can pair you up in teams! Both land and boat positions available. We will be counting all shorebirds observed throughout the bay, sand spit, and morro strand - as we have done in previous years. This survey gives us important information on shorebird numbers year to year in Morro Bay and also helps us compare with other estuaries along the coast. NEP is helping coordinate the survey this year - If you are interested in attending, please respond to Ann - contact below- by October 31 via email or phone. We'll be sending out informational packets as well as release forms that need to be returned prior to the survey. Thanks and hope you can join in the survey this year. - Andrea Jones Ann Kitajima Monitoring Program Manager Morro Bay National Estuary Program Phone: 805-772-3834, ex. 14 Fax: 805-772-4162 www.mbnep.org [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] Subject: Broad-winged Hawk, few other raptors From: "Brad Schram" <gonebrdn AT lightspeed.net> Date: Thu, 9 Oct 2008 12:38:30 -0700 It's been a strange fall for migrant raptors here at Deer Canyon, AG. Normally, by now, Sharp-shinnned Hawk is the commonest migrant moving SE on the wind. As of this moment I've seen exactly one Sharpie, about 10 days ago. Cooper's Hawks are likewise scarce, I've seen three over the canyon in 5-6 mornings of watching. There has been no noticeable hawk migration here unless one watches continuously and then only in a single individual bird now and then--and not every morning when conditions are right. This morning I watched for migrants from our terrace at Deer Canyon from 8:30-12:00. I saw three migrant raptors in 3 1/2 hours--and not one migrant passerine. The first migrant raptor was a juv. BROAD-WINGED HAWK at about 9:30 seen briefly in a spiral in company with a local Red-tailed Hawk and a TV. This is the 3rd Broad-wing in October in our 8 years in Deer Canyon. The next migrant raptor was a MERLIN about 45 minutes later, and the last was an OSPREY seen shortly after 11:00. Not one accipiter this morning--and they are usually the commonest raptor migrants here. Brad Schram Arroyo Grande, CA http://flickr.com/photos/chaparralbrad/ [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] Subject: Morro Coast Audubon Nipomo Dunes Field Trip From: "Mike Stiles" <mstiles AT calpoly.edu> Date: Thu, 9 Oct 2008 08:18:35 -0700 Saturday, October 18th, 8:00am Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes National Wildlife Refuge Join us for this unique opportunity, as part of National Wildlife Refuge week, to hike a portion of the Guadalupe-Nipomo dunes that is normally closed to the public. The refuge is 2500 acres near Oso Flaco Lake and is home to many rare plants and animals, and contains some of the most remote and least disturbed habitat in the dunes complex. We will hike over the dunes to a small oasis of willows and a seasonal wetland to look for birds. This week of October can be very productive for vagrant warblers, vireos, and other birds. We will be out until at least 11:00am and possibly a little later. Note: The hike is about 3 miles round-trip and is moderately strenuous over loose sand and steep dune hillsides. Bring water, hat, sunscreen, and other necessities you normally bring to the field. Some poison oak and ticks may be present. Long pants are advised. Space is limited. Please respond to Mike Stiles to register for the hike. A detailed map and directions will be sent upon registration Mike Stiles Los Osos [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] Subject: Least Flycatcher Report From: "Brad Schram" <gonebrdn AT lightspeed.net> Date: Wed, 8 Oct 2008 18:15:25 -0700 Steve Summers from N Cal just called to tell me that he had a LEAST FLYCATCHER in the willows edging the amphitheater at Montana de Oro about 5pm today. It dropped into the canyon and Islay Creek riparian and he couldn't find it again after he went to the creek mouth where he saw the lingering PROTHONOTARY WARBLER. Brad Schram Arroyo Grande, CA http://flickr.com/photos/chaparralbrad/ [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] Subject: Oceano - Prothonotary Warbler From: Maggie Smith <milleniummaggs AT charter.net> Date: Wed, 08 Oct 2008 10:40:32 -0700 I saw a male PROTHONOTARY WARBLER in its more customary habitat - a low hanging branch over the lagoon. It was on the campground side of the lagoon just opposite the Coolidge/Norswing entrance. Curtis Marantz called yesterday afternoon to say he and Brian Daniels had a young CHESTNUT-SIDED WARBLER on the campground side of the lagoon just as you start from the ranger offices area. I was unable to refind it this morning. I think all 133 Yellow-rumped Warblers that flew over Brad's house landed at the Oceano Campground. Maggie Smith Arroyo Grande Subject: Meadow Creek Sapsuckers, 10/7/08 From: David Lawrence <dmlawrence AT mac.com> Date: Tue, 07 Oct 2008 21:19:40 -0700 Greetings, A late morning lap of the Meadow Creek area (Pismo Monarch Butterfly Preserve) included sightings of 2 RED-BREASTED SAPSUCKERS who moved in quickly, tested the bark of an unprepared eucalyptus, then left just as fast, and a HERMIT THRUSH stuffing Myoporum berries by the golf course, with whom I had a lengthy conversation, though with limited vocabulary. Despite the desiccated creek (a pool does expose by the golf course), the habitat seems inviting, yet only a small flock with expected species chose to be seen. Dave Lawrence Subject: Re: Hummingbird Migration From: "Michael T. Hanson" <mthanson AT calpoly.edu> Date: Tue, 7 Oct 2008 15:49:10 -0700 (PDT) On the other hand, feeding them may help them survive the winter. My friend in Cape Girardeau (spelling?), Missouri last winter had a RUFOUS HUMMINGBIRD that stayed at his feeder all winter. This bird would have surely perished if not for his feeder. ----- Original Message ----- From: jcadroyer AT aol.com To: kdgbuck AT pacbell.net Cc: slocobirding AT yahoogroups.com Sent: Tuesday, October 7, 2008 11:56:50 AM GMT -08:00 US/Canada Pacific Subject: Re: [slocobirding] Hummingbird Migration Hi Rosemary, Many Anna's Hummingbirds winter here in the coastal part of the county, apparently without any problems.? Rarely, individuals of other species winter here as well. There would appear to be no danger in feeding them.? This might be true in a cold climate, but not here in the coastal zone of San Luis County.? If anything, it probably helps wintering hummers to feed them as local flowers may have periods when they are not in bloom and food is low.? It also appears that almost all of the hummers which are going to migrate will migrate, feeders or no, as is evident by the almost complete lack of all species except Anna's here in the winter (until the Allen's start coming back in January and February - when it can be quite cold). Jim Royer Los Osos -----Original Message----- From: songbirdmama16 < kdgbuck AT pacbell.net > To: slocobirding AT yahoogroups.com Sent: Tue, 7 Oct 2008 9:18 am Subject: [slocobirding] Hummingbird Migration Hi! I was wondering if anyone could tell me about when the hummingbirds migrate from this area. I live in Pismo Beach and lots of hummingbirds flock to my feeders. But, someone told me I should stop feeding them so that they can migrate, otherwise it's dangerous for them to stay here. Can you shed some light on this for me? Should I stop feeding them in a particular part of the year? Thank you so much for your response! Rosemary Cochran [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] Subject: RE: Hummingbird Migration From: "Mike Stiles" <mstiles AT calpoly.edu> Date: Tue, 7 Oct 2008 11:53:10 -0700 I have always thought that sugar water in feeders will not counteract eons of genetic imprinting on migrating hummingbirds. In fact, I theorize that they may migrate more readily after getting fat at our feeders. Mike Stiles Los Osos _____ From: slocobirding AT yahoogroups.com [mailto:slocobirding AT yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of songbirdmama16 Sent: Tuesday, October 07, 2008 9:18 AM To: slocobirding AT yahoogroups.com Subject: [slocobirding] Hummingbird Migration Hi! I was wondering if anyone could tell me about when the hummingbirds migrate from this area. I live in Pismo Beach and lots of hummingbirds flock to my feeders. But, someone told me I should stop feeding them so that they can migrate, otherwise it's dangerous for them to stay here. Can you shed some light on this for me? Should I stop feeding them in a particular part of the year? Thank you so much for your response! Rosemary Cochran [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] Subject: Re: Hummingbird Migration From: jcadroyer AT aol.com Date: Tue, 07 Oct 2008 14:56:50 -0400 Hi Rosemary, Many Anna's Hummingbirds winter here in the coastal part of the county, apparently without any problems.? Rarely, individuals of other species winter here as well. There would appear to be no danger in feeding them.? This might be true in a cold climate, but not here in the coastal zone of San Luis County.? If anything, it probably helps wintering hummers to feed them as local flowers may have periods when they are not in bloom and food is low.? It also appears that almost all of the hummers which are going to migrate will migrate, feeders or no, as is evident by the almost complete lack of all species except Anna's here in the winter (until the Allen's start coming back in January and February - when it can be quite cold). Jim Royer Los Osos -----Original Message----- From: songbirdmama16 To: slocobirding AT yahoogroups.com Sent: Tue, 7 Oct 2008 9:18 am Subject: [slocobirding] Hummingbird Migration Hi! I was wondering if anyone could tell me about when the hummingbirds migrate from this area. I live in Pismo Beach and lots of hummingbirds flock to my feeders. But, someone told me I should stop feeding them so that they can migrate, otherwise it's dangerous for them to stay here. Can you shed some light on this for me? Should I stop feeding them in a particular part of the year? Thank you so much for your response! Rosemary Cochran [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] Subject: Hummingbird Migration From: "songbirdmama16" <kdgbuck AT pacbell.net> Date: Tue, 07 Oct 2008 16:18:04 -0000 Hi! I was wondering if anyone could tell me about when the hummingbirds migrate from this area. I live in Pismo Beach and lots of hummingbirds flock to my feeders. But, someone told me I should stop feeding them so that they can migrate, otherwise it's dangerous for them to stay here. Can you shed some light on this for me? Should I stop feeding them in a particular part of the year? Thank you so much for your response! Rosemary Cochran Subject: RE: Oct. 12 Elfin Forest Big Sit From: "Steve Jobst MD" <sjobst AT ccpathology.com> Date: Mon, 6 Oct 2008 19:16:25 -0700 It's rather lame, but since our spot reminds me of the panorama that the caesars of Rome enjoyed while on vacation in Capri, I came up with "Emperors and Empids View". Although I'm sure there are better ideas out there. Steve Jobst Shell Beach ________________________________ From: slocobirding AT yahoogroups.com [mailto:slocobirding AT yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of jcadroyer AT aol.com Sent: Monday, October 06, 2008 6:52 PM To: slocobirding AT yahoogroups.com Cc: nicholas.armstrong AT duffandphelps.com; bbouton AT charter.net; debvilla AT mac.com; aaschmierer AT yahoo.com; Dave Lawrence MD Subject: [slocobirding] Oct. 12 Elfin Forest Big Sit Thanks to all who have volunteered for this years?big sit.? It should be a fun combination of?birding, eating, socializing, and enjoying the beautifull natural setting (not necessarily in that order).? We need a few more experienced counters in the afternoon so please let me know if you can help on Sunday.? The weather is suppose to be nice - sunny with a high of about 69.5 degrees.? The tides will be cooperative also with a high tide of 5.1 feet at about 9:30 AM and a low tide of .9 at about 3:30 PM and high again?at 4.8 at about 9:30 PM (times altered to reflect delay between coast and back bay).? I have done my best to accomodate everyones time requests.? Please let me know if?I left your name off or messed up your time - it was not intentional.? Don't forget to take warm clothing and sun protection and DONT FORGET THE GREAT FOOD AND DRINK.? As a matter of fact if someone doesn't want to count but wants to bring out food or drink, feel free.? I am also doing a big sit pledge drive for the SWAP group who preserved the Elfin Forest.? If anyone else wants to take part or to pledge to mine, let me know.? This is not in any way, shape, or form, a requirement of the big sit!? TENTATIVE SCHEDULE OF SITTERS: 6-7AM????? Mike Stiles, Jim Royer, 7-8?????????? Mike Stiles, Jim Royer, Tom Edell 8-9?????????? Mike, Jim, Tom 9-10?????????Brad Schram, Steve Jobst, Maggie Smith 10-11?????? Brad, Steve, Maggie 11-12???????Maggie, Steve, Roger Zachary, and Ruth? 12-1PM??? Roger, Karen Clarke, Ron LeCount, Marilyn Walthers 1-2?????????? Roger, Karen, Ron, Marilyn 2-3?????????? Marilyn, Ron 3-4?????????? Ron Ruppert 4-5???????????Ron, Jim 5-6?????????? Jim 6-7?????????? Jim 7-??????????? Mike We might also?consider a new name for our big sit group - currently "SLO Birders" because other big sits have much more original and sometimes even more clever names like the Celery Stalkers, the Twitch Wiffers, the Nutty Woodpeckers, the Bayfrontal Oddities, Wings over Wastewater, the Loonatics, Montgomery County Sitting Ducks, the Ballou Jays, the Old Coots, DeSoto's Gooseless Wonders, Smock Duck, the Grosbreasted Rosebeaks,?and my two favorites - the?Eh! Team (Canadian sit), and "Jekyll and"?(from East Hyde, UK).? All I could think of for our count was 'Happy Rails to?You". I am sure someone in the group could do much better.? Once again, the location of the big sit circle is straight out from the north end of 13th street in Los Osos (off Santa Ysabel).? Park near the end of 13th (don't block driveways please) and take the sand path out to the wooden boardwalk path and a short distance to the overlook.? Don't forget your spotting scope. Jim Royer Los Osos?????????????? [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] Subject: Oct. 12 Elfin Forest Big Sit From: jcadroyer AT aol.com Date: Mon, 06 Oct 2008 21:51:45 -0400 Thanks to all who have volunteered for this years?big sit.? It should be a fun combination of?birding, eating, socializing, and enjoying the beautifull natural setting (not necessarily in that order).? We need a few more experienced counters in the afternoon so please let me know if you can help on Sunday.? The weather is suppose to be nice - sunny with a high of about 69.5 degrees.? The tides will be cooperative also with a high tide of 5.1 feet at about 9:30 AM and a low tide of .9 at about 3:30 PM and high again?at 4.8 at about 9:30 PM (times altered to reflect delay between coast and back bay).? I have done my best to accomodate everyones time requests.? Please let me know if?I left your name off or messed up your time - it was not intentional.? Don't forget to take warm clothing and sun protection and DONT FORGET THE GREAT FOOD AND DRINK.? As a matter of fact if someone doesn't want to count but wants to bring out food or drink, feel free.? I am also doing a big sit pledge drive for the SWAP group who preserved the Elfin Forest.? If anyone else wants to take part or to pledge to mine, let me know.? This is not in any way, shape, or form, a requirement of the big sit!? TENTATIVE SCHEDULE OF SITTERS: 6-7AM????? Mike Stiles, Jim Royer, 7-8?????????? Mike Stiles, Jim Royer, Tom Edell 8-9?????????? Mike, Jim, Tom 9-10?????????Brad Schram, Steve Jobst, Maggie Smith 10-11?????? Brad, Steve, Maggie 11-12???????Maggie, Steve, Roger Zachary, and Ruth? 12-1PM??? Roger, Karen Clarke, Ron LeCount, Marilyn Walthers 1-2?????????? Roger, Karen, Ron, Marilyn 2-3?????????? Marilyn, Ron 3-4?????????? Ron Ruppert 4-5???????????Ron, Jim 5-6?????????? Jim 6-7?????????? Jim 7-??????????? Mike We might also?consider a new name for our big sit group - currently "SLO Birders" because other big sits have much more original and sometimes even more clever names like the Celery Stalkers, the Twitch Wiffers, the Nutty Woodpeckers, the Bayfrontal Oddities, Wings over Wastewater, the Loonatics, Montgomery County Sitting Ducks, the Ballou Jays, the Old Coots, DeSoto's Gooseless Wonders, Smock Duck, the Grosbreasted Rosebeaks,?and my two favorites - the?Eh! Team (Canadian sit), and "Jekyll and"?(from East Hyde, UK).? All I could think of for our count was 'Happy Rails to?You". I am sure someone in the group could do much better.? Once again, the location of the big sit circle is straight out from the north end of 13th street in Los Osos (off Santa Ysabel).? Park near the end of 13th (don't block driveways please) and take the sand path out to the wooden boardwalk path and a short distance to the overlook.? Don't forget your spotting scope. Jim Royer Los Osos?????????????? [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] Subject: Migrants in the Air From: "Brad Schram" <gonebrdn AT lightspeed.net> Date: Mon, 6 Oct 2008 12:06:12 -0700 Awaking to a NE breeze this morning, and needing to recover from seven hours fighting boat motion yesterday, I decided to watch for migrants over Deer Canyon, Arroyo Grande instead of birding migrant traps this morning. There was an obvious movement going through this morning. One surprise was the almost total lack of raptors moving through. I suspect that anyone birding migrant traps here and to the south this morning found newly swollen flocks of Yellow-rumped Warblers. Migrant species in the air, moving ESE over Deer Canyon, included the following: (numbers approximate because sometimes so many birds were in the air at a given moment that I surely missed many). Accipiter sp. 1 appeared and disappeared too quickly for a positive ID Vaux's Swift 1 in a large flock of swallows Lewis's Woodpecker 1 rarely seen in AG area Northern Flicker 1 Tree Swallow 1 Violet-green Swallow 200+ Cliff Swallow 1 Barn Swallow 1 Steller's Jay 1 rarely seen in AG area American Robin 5 Cedar Waxwing 3 1st here this fall Ruby-crowned Kinglet 1 Orange-crowned Warbler 2 Yellow Warbler 1 foraging Yellow-rumped Warbler 133 Black-throated Gray Warbler 1 Western Tanager 3 Brad Schram Arroyo Grande, CA http://flickr.com/photos/chaparralbrad/ [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] Subject: Montana de Oro - Sunday From: jcadroyer AT aol.com Date: Mon, 6 Oct 2008 02:53:57 EDT This morning an immature fall male Prothonotary Warbler was still at Islay Creek mouth at Spooner's Cove and a Blackpoll with blackish streaking (fall adult male?) was near the top of the horse trail which crosses the creek just past the Ranch House. The Prothonotary was still at the same location at 6:30 PM. Jim Royer Los Osos **************New MapQuest Local shows what's happening at your destination. Dining, Movies, Events, News & more. Try it out! (http://local.mapquest.com/?ncid=emlcntnew00000001) [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] Subject: Spooners Cove Campground From: TEdell AT aol.com Date: Sun, 5 Oct 2008 21:47:48 EDT This afternoon following the MCA boat trip, a female BALTIMORE ORIOLE and a BLACKPOLL WARBLER were seen in Spooners Cove Campground at Montana de Oro State Park. Both were between the two loops, the oriole on the southern side across from the eastern restroom and the warbler was near the restroom in willows along the creek. Tom Edell Cayucos, CA **************New MapQuest Local shows what's happening at your destination. Dining, Movies, Events, News & more. Try it out! (http://local.mapquest.com/?ncid=emlcntnew00000001) [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] Subject: Oceano Campground From: "Michael D. Stiles" <mstiles AT calpoly.edu> Date: Sun, 5 Oct 2008 18:05:48 -0700 (PDT) I birded Oceano today, hoping to get the first county something since most every other county birder was on the Audubon pelagic trip, and we just had a front pass through, etc, but.... the best bird I could find was a BLACKPOLL WARBLER. It was very birdy with many Townsend's, and Yellow-rump Warblers, a few Orange-crowned and one BLACK-THROATED GRAY WARBLER, just no rarities. Yesterday around Morro Bay I noticed that many AMERICAN WIGEONS have returned, and I had another BLACKPOLL WARBLER in Pecho Willows. Mike Stiles Los Osos Subject: Hi Mountain Condor Lookout Project annual open house 10/11/08 From: s_schub AT webtv.net Date: Sat, 4 Oct 2008 19:04:06 -0700 Hi Mountain Condor Lookout Project 7th Annual Open House/Campout Saturday, October 11th, 2008 Schedule of Activities: -Bird Watching Field Trip - 9:00am - 11:30am Pozo Valley to Hi Mountain, 3,199 ft. elev. Meet at Pozo Ranger Station. Carpooling recommended. Habitats: grassland, riparian woodland at Salinas River crossing, valley oak, blue oak and coast-live oak woodlands, chaparral. Easy hiking conditions and car pooling. Leader: Peter Dullea, Hi Mtn. Project Volunteer Advanced registration requested: contact Steve at s_schub AT webtv.net or #805 528-6138 -Picnic lunch - 12 noon Bring your own lunch OR order: "Condor Special" SACK Lunches Available! If you are coming up to join us & want to travel lightly, think about reserving a delicious Condor Sack Lunch! A fresh,scrumptious Margarita Mercantile sandwich - choice* of turkey/jack cheese, ham'n cheddar cheese OR all cheese (1/2 or whole on French roll) you'll add the condiments n bag of chips or pretzels n Soda or water n Homemade brownie 1/2 Sandwich lunch $7 each Full sandwich lunch $9 each Call Marcelle before Friday Oct. 9th at noon to reserve: 927-1017 (wk.) or 927-3359 (h) or email: marcelle AT digitalputty.com (subject "reserve sack lunch") -Hi Mountain Lookout Interpretive Center open - please sign our guest register -Raffle tickets for sale -Welcoming comments 12:30 pm -Introductions -Morning birding field trip report, interesting bird and wildlife sightings -Hi Mountain Lookout Project year in review and recognition of staff, interns, and volunteers, by Steve Schubert, Volunteer Coordinator, Morro Coast Audubon Society & Dr. Francis Villablanca, Professor, Cal Poly Biological Sciences Department -Updates on the California Condor Recovery Program, by Condor staff -Condor radio tracking demonstration, by Cal Poly student interns -Raffle drawing for donated prizes, annual fundraiser 1:15 pm Afternoon activities and field trips: -Geographical landmarks, a 360 degree view from the Pacific Coast to the Sierra Nevada. Geologic features observed from the Lookout include the Rinconada Fault Zone, serpentine rock, and marine sedimentary rock formations. Speakers: Kevin Cooper, USFS and Steve Schubert, MCAS. -Native plant identification walk, along the crest of the Santa Lucia Mountains. Leader: Dr. Dirk Walters, San Luis Obispo Chapter, California Native Plant Society. -Animal vocalizations workshop - learn to recognize and imitate common birds of the Santa Lucia Wilderness. Speaker: Kevin Cooper, USFS, Los Padres National Forest Wildlife Biologist. -Feathers Workshop - learn all about feathers with renowned artist, biologist, and taxidermist John Schmitt, contributing artist to the National Geographic Field Guide to Birds. -Volunteers training session: practice radio telemetry, facilities use, and scheduling. -Meet with Hi Mountain Lookout staff and condor biologists, reminiscing about experiences in 'Condor Country'. - Sunset watch and dinner (dress warm in layers) Gas stove and oven are available for cooking and heating food in the Lookout. Participants are encouraged to bring a potluck dish to share with their friends and guests. 'Hi Mountain Red Wine 2007' will be served by staff from Saucelito Canyon Vineyard. Note: no campfires are permitted for cooking or during the overnight campout. -Evening guest speakers 7pm "Summer Internship at Hi Mountain" - slide show by 2008 Cal Poly student interns. "Trapping and banding birds of prey, Central Mongolia (2007) and South Texas (2008)" - raptor research slide show by Paul Andreano, past Hi Mtn. Lookout Intern. -Astronomy observations - telscopic views of the evening skies. Optional Hi Mountain Campout Camping sites are available for Friday and/or Saturday nights at 'Cypress Hill' near the lookout. Other vehicle camping sites are located on the ridgeline near the entrance gate (with a view to the coast) and at the USFS Hi Mountain Campground, located one mile down the road from the Lookout. There are picnic tables and outhouses at the campground. Bring your own potable water. No open campfires permitted and smoking in enclosed vehicles only. For additional information about the open house event and driving directions to Hi Mountain Lookout, see our website at www.condorlookout.org Please contact Steve Schubert at s_schub AT webtv.net or at # (805) 528-6138 to RSVP if you are planning to attend the open house event and the number of people in your group. Subject: Commmon Murre at Tidelands Park From: "Betty McElhill" <bmcelhil AT slonet.org> Date: Fri, 3 Oct 2008 19:58:12 -0700 There was a Common Murre at Tidelands Park, Morro Bay this morning. He was pruning and neither people watching him nor seals and brown pelicans diving for fish seemed to interest him. He posed for picture: http://flickr.com/photos/bmcelhill Betty McElhill Los Osos [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] Subject: Sabine's Gull From: "calpolyio" <calpolyio AT yahoo.com> Date: Fri, 03 Oct 2008 19:55:16 -0000 There was a lone Sabine's Gull seen at the Pier Ave. entrance to Oceano Dunes SVRA on Thursday Oct. 2, 2008 around noon. It looked like it was beginning to molt from breeding to non-breeding plummage. Photos confirm Sabine's ID. Cool gull! ~Jamie K. Miller calpolyio AT gmail.com calpolyio AT yahoo.com Subject: Re: Location of Guadalupe Sewage Plant From: "Jamie Chavez" <almiyi AT verizon.net> Date: Thu, 02 Oct 2008 17:51:44 -0700 With apologies to the list owner for being off topic (Guadalupe Sewage is in Santa Barbara County not in SLO), but I thought it best to reply. Currently there is no birding allowed in the Guadalupe Sewage Plant. However, the famous Guadalupe Pasture adjacent to the sewage plant is a birding spot well known to locals. At this time birding is permitted outside the pasture along the road paralleling the pasture fence but should be limited if there are crop harvesting activities, tractors etc. (access is along the road behind the house and barn at the end of entrance road to the sewage plant). A small portion of the sewage plant is visible from the city park. To better help explain where you can go please see my SBA Birder's Guide, site A2: http://mysite.verizon.net/res0d1yq/NorthCoast.htm ______________ Jamie M. Chavez Santa Maria, CA www.sbcobirding.com www.flickr.com/photos/almiyi/ ----- Original Message ----- From: "Kathryn Parker" To: Sent: Thursday, October 02, 2008 4:23 PM Subject: [slocobirding] Location of Guadalupe Sewage Plant > Can someone please tell me where the Guadalupe Sewage Plant is, how to > get there, and what is the protocol for birding here? > > Thanks, > Kathy Parker > Los Gatos Subject: Location of Guadalupe Sewage Plant From: Kathryn Parker <jandkparker AT mindspring.com> Date: Thu, 2 Oct 2008 16:23:25 -0700 Can someone please tell me where the Guadalupe Sewage Plant is, how to get there, and what is the protocol for birding here? Thanks, Kathy Parker Los Gatos Subject: Black skimmer From: "docentjoyce" <docentjoyce AT yahoo.com> Date: Thu, 02 Oct 2008 19:00:57 -0000 Morro Bay - Baywood - out from the Coastal Access at the Northern end of 3rd St., observed 3 Black Skimmers skimming along the edges of the Oyster Bed where the Forster's Terns hang out. Joyce Cory Los Osos Subject: Oceano Oct. 1 From: "Brad Schram" <gonebrdn AT lightspeed.net> Date: Wed, 1 Oct 2008 21:47:02 -0700 I neglected to post earlier that I had my fof RED-BREASTED NUTHATCH at Oceano this morning. Noteworthy also was an HY BLACKPOLL WARBLER. Migrant numbers were good, especially in the vicinity of the native garden. Unfortunately, the Prothonotary Warbler was not showing in its previously predictable myoporum bush and may be gone. Brad Schram Arroyo Grande, CA http://flickr.com/photos/chaparralbrad/ [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] Subject: Prothonotary Warbler Photo From: Maggie Smith <milleniummaggs AT charter.net> Date: Tue, 30 Sep 2008 13:20:35 -0700 Dave Keeling very graciously let me post an outstanding photo he took yesterday of the PROTHONOTARY WARBLER at Oceano Campground. As you can see the bird loves the myoporum berries. The photo is at: Maggie Smith Arroyo Grande Photos AT http://www.flickr.com/photos/slomaggie [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] Subject: Harlequin Duck Continues at Estero Bluffs From: TEdell AT aol.com Date: Tue, 30 Sep 2008 00:31:31 EDT I received a report from Norma Wightman that she saw a Harlequin Duck near the cypress tree at Estero Bluffs State Park on September 23. This is undoubtedly the bird that summered at this location, but has not been reported since August 8. Tom Edell Cayucos, CA **************Looking for simple solutions to your real-life financial challenges? Check out WalletPop for the latest news and information, tips and calculators. (http://www.walletpop.com/?NCID=emlcntuswall00000001) [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] Subject: Bobolink at Islay Creek Mouth 9/26 From: TEdell AT aol.com Date: Tue, 30 Sep 2008 00:23:22 EDT Today I received a photo from Dave Keeling of a basic plumaged BOBOLINK taken at the mouth of Islay Creek on September 26. He also photographed a Chipping Sparrow the same morning. Tom Edell Cayucos, CA **************Looking for simple solutions to your real-life financial challenges? Check out WalletPop for the latest news and information, tips and calculators. (http://www.walletpop.com/?NCID=emlcntuswall00000001) [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] Subject: Tropical Kingbird/Prothonotary Warbler From: Maggie Smith <milleniummaggs AT charter.net> Date: Mon, 29 Sep 2008 17:34:23 -0700 I looked for the Tropical Kingbird this morning. Yesterday I ran into Tony Kurz and Giacomo Catalina and suggested they check The Arroyo Grande Creek mouth and Airport area for the kingbird. I had the same luck I've been having for almost a week. NONE! I decided for another try after birding Oceano and Bingo! The TROPICAL KINGBIRD was alone along the fence line on Ocean St. At Oceano I birded with a group of women who get together most Mondays to bird. We couldn't find the Northern Waterthrush. Amazingly though, the PROTHONOTARY WARBLER was in the same myoporum bush, I saw it in yesterday. The bird is eating berries and moves slowly and methodically and can completely disappear. We were about to give up when Sandy Danielson saw a tiny spot of bright yellow that moved. Eventually we all saw the bird when it fully emerged for a few seconds. The myoporum bush is behind campsite 50. Saw a first-fall female NASHVILLE WARBLER in a small flock in the native garden area. Two RING-NECKED DUCKS and the continuing REDHEAD were on the lagoon. Maggie Smith Arroyo Grande Subject: MCAS Pelagic Trip Oct 5 From: Maggie Smith <milleniummaggs AT charter.net> Date: Mon, 29 Sep 2008 16:10:23 -0700 Morro Coast Audubon Society Fall Pelagic Trip Sunday, October 5, 2008 Welcome Aboard. Morro Coast Audubon Society is pleased to have you join us for our annual fall pelagic bird trip. Please read the following information carefully. It will help you have a more pleasurable experience*.* ** Please be at Virg's Landing Sport Fishing, 1215 Embarcadero, Morro Bay* no later than **6:30 AM* on Sunday, October 5, 2008. Sign-in and briefings will commence immediately. *The boat cannot wait for latecomers*. The boat will return to the dock at about 3:00 pm. *Tour Leaders-*Your tour leaders this year are Tom Edell and Brad Schram, both eminently qualified expert birders. *Snacks/Lunches-*Bring any snacks, lunch or drinks that you wish in a backpack or soft bag. No coolers are allowed on board. *Warm Clothing-*Dress for cold weather. Even in "perfect weather" be prepared for wind and salt spray. Wear comfortable, non-skid shoes or boots. You may need warm _gloves_. The boat may go out despite rain or small craft warnings, at the captain's discretion. Be prepared. *Binoculars/Cameras-* Two way radio -Bring them, and field guides too. Leave your spotting scopes and camera tripods at home. You might want to protect your equipment from the salt spray, and be sure to bring _several_ cleaning cloths and glass cleaner. *Seasickness*. Avoid rich and fatty foods the night before. Eat breakfast, but avoid heavy or greasy foods. Food such as crackers, pretzels and carbonated beverages during the trip can help settle your stomach. Use seasick medication if necessary, and follow label directions. * * *Weather-*If it is raining; do not assume that the trip will be canceled. All decisions regarding weather cancellations will be made at the dock at time of boarding, and only at the discretion of the captain. If the *captain* cancels the trip at the dock, you will receive a refund. In addition, sometimes weather will force an early return. Maggie Smith Arroyo Grande [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] Subject: Oceano Birds and Morro Bay State Park CHESNUT-SIDED WARBLER 9/28/08 From: "svillebirder" <tonyk_71220 AT hotmail.com> Date: Mon, 29 Sep 2008 05:04:39 -0000 Giacomo Catalina and I started the morning at Oceano, and had quite a good morning of migrating warblers. Warblers seen included: Orange-crowned, Nashville, Yellow, Townsend's, MacGuillvary's, Common Yellowthroat, Wilson's, and the NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH in the same area. The waterthrush made a brief apperance and was gone. Oceano Airport- We had a TROPICAL KINGBIRD and a Cassin's Kingbird sitting on the fence at the south side of the airport. The birds perched fairly close a few times, and it was neat to seperate the differences while the birds perched side by side. From there we went to Morro Bay State Park to look for the CHESNUT- SIDED WARBLER and found it fairly easy. Just keep looking through the big flocks of Bushtits and Wilson's Warbler's that is probably people's best bet to find the bird. It was in the same spot it had been reported earlier. Will Post new pictures. Tony Kurz Springville Tulare County Subject: Oceano birds 9/28 From: Maggie Smith <milleniummaggs AT charter.net> Date: Sun, 28 Sep 2008 13:50:54 -0700 I ran into Eric Wier, Laura Frank and Steve McMasters this morning. While together we found a first fall female BLACKPOLL WARBLER and a whitish NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH. The waterthrush was in the same area described by Brad Schram. I think it's a different bird than was found earlier by Doug Stinson. Doug's bird had a yellow washed breast. As I was walking back to my car I saw a PROTHONOTARY WARBLER high in a myoporum bush which separates the campground and the peninsula. I think it was bright enough to be a male. Maggie Smith Arroyo Grande Subject: Osprey From: "Chris C" <cc AT gliderpilots.org> Date: Sun, 28 Sep 2008 10:07:09 -0700 Sophia and I had a nice fly over by an Osprey Sat at 1:20 on top of the hill SE of the light at Hwy 1 and Old Creek Rd. The coast was pea soup fog up to about 700 feet. The top of the hill is at 710 so we were in the sunshine and enjoyed a nice little picnic with the top of the clouds swirling around us once in a while. Sophia spotted the bird first and said "Look Dad! What kind of bird is that?" It flew right over us about 20 feet over head and she watched it head south from there. It was her first Osprey. Chris Crescioli Paso Robles [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] Subject: Re: Commic Tern at Oso Flaco creek mouth From: "Brad Schram" <gonebrdn AT lightspeed.net> Date: Sun, 28 Sep 2008 09:17:27 -0700 Mark asks a good question about the tern he photographed at Oso Flaco. There are records of migrant Arctic Terns settling at coastal creek and river mouths as he points out. Looking at his photo I see three things telling me it's a Common Tern: 1. The demarcation between the forehead white and hind crown black is decidedly soft--the white bleeds to black through a grayish zone. In Arctic this demarcation should be crisp. 2. I can see the bird's lower tibia (above the joint that is equivalent to the heel in humans). Arctic Terns are so short-legged when standing ashore that one can't normally see the lower tibia. 3. The bill seems a bit heavy to me--a subjective "feel"--and I expect an all black bill in an imm. Arctic, not the long wash of orangish on this bird. Nice identifiable photo, Mark! Brad Schram Arroyo Grande ----- Original Message ----- From: "Mark Brown" To: Sent: Sunday, September 28, 2008 12:00 AM Subject: [slocobirding] Commic Tern at Oso Flaco creek mouth > All: > > I saw a Common Tern/Arctic Tern at the Oso Flaco Creek mouth this > morning September 27, 2008. I got a fairly good photo. I added > Arctic Tern as a possibility because of the "onshore" county records > from creek mouths in the fall. Moreover, there are two records of > Arctic from Oso Flaco lake in 1982 & 1984. In addition, the "carpal > bar" is narrow. The legs and bill seem more Common-like though. > Thursday September 25, 2008 I saw an Osprey at Oso Flaco Lake and five > Black-vented Shearwaters offshore. > Late this morning, presumably after Brad left, the best I could do was > a MacGillivray's Warbler skulking around on the "peninsula" at Oceano. > These are the most uncommon of the western migrant warblers, I think? > I missed the waterthrush. > > Regards, > > Mark Brown > Santa Maria > http://www.flickr.com/photos/33835670 AT N00 . > photo of the tern and Osprey > > > ------------------------------------ > > To Post a message, send it to: slocobirding AT yahoogroups.com > > To Unsubscribe, send a blank message to: > slocobirding-unsubscribe AT yahoogroups.com > > Message archives and group home page can be found at: > > http://groups.yahoo.com/group/slocobirdingYahoo! Groups Links > > > Subject: Commic Tern at Oso Flaco creek mouth From: "Mark Brown" <lawoffmarkbrown AT verizon.net> Date: Sun, 28 Sep 2008 07:00:18 -0000 All: I saw a Common Tern/Arctic Tern at the Oso Flaco Creek mouth this morning September 27, 2008. I got a fairly good photo. I added Arctic Tern as a possibility because of the "onshore" county records from creek mouths in the fall. Moreover, there are two records of Arctic from Oso Flaco lake in 1982 & 1984. In addition, the "carpal bar" is narrow. The legs and bill seem more Common-like though. Thursday September 25, 2008 I saw an Osprey at Oso Flaco Lake and five Black-vented Shearwaters offshore. Late this morning, presumably after Brad left, the best I could do was a MacGillivray's Warbler skulking around on the "peninsula" at Oceano. These are the most uncommon of the western migrant warblers, I think? I missed the waterthrush. Regards, Mark Brown Santa Maria http://www.flickr.com/photos/33835670 AT N00 . photo of the tern and Osprey Subject: Oceano 9-27 From: "Brad Schram" <gonebrdn AT lightspeed.net> Date: Sat, 27 Sep 2008 13:11:58 -0700 Early this morning Oceano was dark, damp, and quiet. I did have a NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH just past the bridge on the entry trail to the right of the Coolidge and Norswing entrance. I was surprised, on September 27, to not see another birder for the two hours I lingered! Brad Schram Arroyo Grande, CA http://flickr.com/photos/chaparralbrad/ [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] Subject: Important Bird Area (IBA) Presentation From: "jansurbey" <jansurbey AT earthlink.net> Date: Sat, 27 Sep 2008 15:57:38 -0000 Please join Morro Coast Audubon Society (MCAS) for this FREE community program featuring Andrea Jones, the California Audubon IBA coordinator (and our local conservation chair) for this informative presentation. Monday, September 29th, 7PM, at the Atascadero AARP Hall, 7848 Pismo Street (near the Atascadero Lake Pavilion). The public is welcome; refreshments provided by MCAS. Jan Surbey Santa Margarita Subject: Pismo Beach amazing spectacle From: scre AT aol.com Date: Fri, 26 Sep 2008 01:40:14 -0400 Forgot to mention the amazing spectacle of birds present off Pismo Beach today.? While leading a tour with David Wimpheimer we stopped at Margo Dodd Park in Pismo Beach for lunch where we had an estimated ~100000 Sooty Shearwaters, ~15000 Brandt's Cormorants, and ~5000 Brown Pelicans feeding offshore in a massive flock.? It was quite the sight! David Vander Pluym Ventura, Ca [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] Subject: Blackpoll From: scre AT aol.com Date: Fri, 26 Sep 2008 01:25:37 -0400 After moving the group on to Oceano I picked out a HY Blackpoll Warbler in the pines just past the campground entrance.? Good Birding David Vander Pluym I just got a call from David Vander Pluym that David Wimpheimer and his tour group found an HY female Chestnut-sided Warbler at the maintenance yard at the Morro Bay State Park. Good birding, Oscar Johnson Santa Cruz [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] Subject: Permission to use pictures From: "Ron Melcer" <corvid88 AT gmail.com> Date: Thu, 25 Sep 2008 21:24:23 -0700 SLO Birders, In a couple of weeks I'll be giving a slide show at the WFO meeting in San Jose, as a grad student at CalPoly, on a bird study I have been working on in SLO County riparian habitats. It would be really great to use some pictures of the species found in the county's montane riparian habitats. I'm interested specifically in (but not limited to) pictures of Swainson's Thrush, Song Sparrow, Towhees, Warbling Vireo, Pacific-slope and Ash-throated Flycatcher, Orange-crowned Warbler, Wilson's Warbler, Black-headed Grosbeak, Black-chinned, Rufous, Allen's and Anna's Hummingbirds; Some of the Cerro Alto and Santa Rita Road birds (MacGillivray's Warbler, Western Tanager, Olive-sided Flycatcher, Cassin's Vireo) would be neat as well; Wrentits, Band-tailed Pigeons etc- the list could go on... Is anyone willing to allow the use of their photos for such cause? Obviously photo credit would be given. I greatly appreciate your responses. Thanks, Ron Melcer (916) 296-6729 rmelcer AT calpoly.edu Subject: Sweet Springs From: "docentjoyce" <docentjoyce AT yahoo.com> Date: Thu, 25 Sep 2008 23:17:01 -0000 Sweet Springs - Los Osos - Noon - Mixed flock - Townsend's Warbler, Oak Titmouse, White-breasted Nuthatch, Chickadee. In the channel area three female and one male Blue-winged Teal. I also saw what may have been a female Ladder-backed Woodpecker. She seemed to have some yellow/buffy streaking. Help with ID would be appreciated. Hopefully the following link will work. http://www.flickr.com/photos/docentjoyce/ Joyce Cory Los Osos Subject: Cuesta Ridge From: Alan Schmierer <aaschmierer AT yahoo.com> Date: Thu, 25 Sep 2008 12:45:20 -0700 (PDT) This morning Maggie and I birded Cuesta Ridge via the TV Tower Road (See: http://www.morrocoastaudubon.org/mbsloguide.htm#curiwe.) We found about 30 Fox Sparrows, but only identified a few as to race.... 1 Thick-billed, 1 Sooty and 1probable Slate-colored. They seem to be more secretive now than they are later in the season, and it was very hard to draw them out into the open. Perhaps later in the season they have established more secure winter territories and thus defend it more strongly? Also later in the season I would expect to see more like 80 to 100 Fox Sparrows in the same area that we surveyed today. Later in the winter in that habitat we have many Hermit Thrushes respond to our searching. None were present today. Other birds: 12 S Bell's Sage Sparrows, 4 Lawrence's Goldfinches (flyover) and 5 Steller's Jays. Neither Maggie nor I have had seen Steller's on the ridge before, although they are common below along the Cerro Alto Road. They were with W Scrub Jays, which were present in sometimes 25 to a flock. No Warblers were seen, nor other migrants, although we did see one empid that got away. The latter was very gray, bull-headed, short-tailed, with tear-drop shaped eye ring but we saw no other details. Certainly suggestive of Hammond's. Alan Schmierer Morro Bay, CA PHOTOS AT: www.flickr.com/photos/sloalan/sets [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] Subject: Chestnut-sided Warbler From: "Oscar Johnson" <henicorhina AT yahoo.com> Date: Thu, 25 Sep 2008 17:54:19 -0000 I just got a call from David Vander Pluym that David Wimpheimer and his tour group found an HY female Chestnut-sided Warbler at the maintenance yard at the Morro Bay State Park. Good birding, Oscar Johnson Santa Cruz Subject: Montana de Oro birds 9/24 From: Maggie Smith <milleniummaggs AT charter.net> Date: Wed, 24 Sep 2008 14:39:12 -0700 Alan Schmierer and I birded a few areas in Montana de Oro this morning. Coon Creek was best. We saw 4 sooty FOX SPARROWS and 4 WINTER WRENS (1 singing). All the usual warblers were present including an adult female AMERICAN REDSTART. We heard several SWAINSON'S THRUSHES but no Canyon Wren. Alan has posted some pics AT www.flickr.com/photos/sloalan/sets At Spooner Cove campground we saw our FOF GOLDEN-CROWNED SPARROW and 4 WESTERN TANAGERS. There also was a LINCOLN'S SPARROW here and 2 more at the mouth of Islay creek. Maggie Smith Arroyo Grande Subject: Prothonotary & Juvenile Sora From: "Linda Tanner" <goingslo AT yahoo.com> Date: Wed, 24 Sep 2008 18:38:51 -0000 Tuesday evening the Prothonotary Warbler was again seen and Jim Royer confirmed the Juvenile Sora I had seen on September 20th at the mouth of Islay Creek. Subject: Re: Tropical Kingbird From: Maggie Smith <milleniummaggs AT charter.net> Date: Tue, 23 Sep 2008 17:10:30 -0700 Correction : PLUMBEOUS VIREO was seen Monday 9/22. Maggie Smith Arroyo Grande Maggie Smith wrote: > Doug Stinson called me this morning to say he had a TROPICAL KINGBIRD > at the Oceano Campground. It was perching on snags out on the > peninsula, but after being harassed by Black Phoebes, flew off toward > the community pond. He also had a very worn PLUMBEOUS VIREO on Sunday > morning 9/21. > > About 2:30 this afternoon I looked for, but didn't find the Tropical > Kingbird and was surprised by how birdie it was even tho the fog had > returned. I saw all the birds Brad mentioned and 2 WESTERN WOOD-PEWEE. > > Maggie Smith > Arroyo Grande > > ------------------------------------ > > To Post a message, send it to: slocobirding AT yahoogroups.com > > To Unsubscribe, send a blank message to: slocobirding-unsubscribe AT yahoogroups.com > > Message archives and group home page can be found at: > http://groups.yahoo.com/group/slocobirdingYahoo! Groups Links > > > > > Subject: Tropical Kingbird From: Maggie Smith <milleniummaggs AT charter.net> Date: Tue, 23 Sep 2008 17:01:49 -0700 Doug Stinson called me this morning to say he had a TROPICAL KINGBIRD at the Oceano Campground. It was perching on snags out on the peninsula, but after being harassed by Black Phoebes, flew off toward the community pond. He also had a very worn PLUMBEOUS VIREO on Sunday morning 9/21. About 2:30 this afternoon I looked for, but didn't find the Tropical Kingbird and was surprised by how birdie it was even tho the fog had returned. I saw all the birds Brad mentioned and 2 WESTERN WOOD-PEWEE. Maggie Smith Arroyo Grande Subject: Oceano 9-23 From: "Brad Schram" <gonebrdn AT lightspeed.net> Date: Tue, 23 Sep 2008 14:02:53 -0700 Good numbers of migrants continue at Oceano. WESTERN TANAGERS fly-caught bugs in the warm morning. A few BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAKS "pik"-ed, lots of WARBLING VIREOS remain. I only saw one of Sunday's four BLACK-THROATED GRAY WARBLERs and a HERMIT WARBLER amongst the usual. A late imm. female HOODED ORIOLE was in the native garden. Brad Schram Arroyo Grande, CA http://flickr.com/photos/chaparralbrad/ [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] Subject: PROTHONOTARY WARBLER From: Alan Schmierer <aaschmierer AT yahoo.com> Date: Tue, 23 Sep 2008 13:25:02 -0700 (PDT) To celebrate being back on the warm, sunny California coast, I joined Maggie Smith for a quick trip up the north coast. At Arroyo de la Cruz, about 100 yards downstream from the bridge we found a PROTHONOTARY WARBLER with a small flock of chickadees and common warblers at about 0830. My guess is that it was an adult female, but could be a 1st winter male or even a dull adult male. There are some poor quality photos on my Flickr site under "NEW PICS". Maggie saw 2 MARBLED MURRELETS off the San Simeon State Park beach. There was a pretty large flock of GULLS at the Elephant seal observing spot, but they were mostly CALIFORNIA GULLS. There were about 10 ELEGANT TERNS with the gulls. We looked (but not exhaustively) for the BAY-BREASTED WARBLER at Santa Rosa Creek. There was a moderate sized flock of chickadee/warblers a few hundred yards down from the bridge, but we did not find the bird or the NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH that was reported recently. We were there from about 1015 to 1100. Alan Schmierer Morro Bay, CA PHOTOS AT: www.flickr.com/photos/sloalan/sets [Non-text portions of this message have been removed] Subject: Northern Waterthrush, Santa Rosa Creek From: "Adam Searcy" <adamski711 AT yahoo.com> Date: Tue, 23 Sep 2008 06:18:00 -0000 Hello all, I dipped on the Bay-breasted Warbler, but there was a NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH just below the bridge and in adjacent willows. Good birding, Adam Searcy Santa Cruz Subject: Prothonotary warbler 9/22/08 From: "birderjaime" <jaimelobo2002 AT yahoo.com> Date: Mon, 22 Sep 2008 21:01:43 -0000 I relocated the prothonotary warbler this morning at 9:45 a.m. at the mouth of Islay Creek in Montaņa de Oro State Park in the same spot that Peter Dullea saw it yesterday. It was spending a lot of time deep in the short brush. Jim Woolf Subject: Oso Flaco From: "Brad Schram" <gonebrdn AT lightspeed.net> Date: Mon, 22 Sep 2008 12:03:35 -0700 The entry path to Oso Flaco Lake had a fair sampling of migrant warblers this morning. Predominantly yellow & green species declining in numbers, Townsend's holding steady or increasing, and Yellow-rumps increasing--wingbars becoming the majority amongst warblers as always in late September. A single BLACKPOLL was the most notable warbler, and a ff male HERMIT WARBLER showed itself as well. Four YELLOW-RUMPS included three Audubon's and one Myrtle's. The first GOLDEN-CROWNED SPARROW of the fall in Deer Canyon, Arroyo Grande appeared this morning. Brad Schram Arroyo Grande, CA http://flickr.com/photos/chaparralbrad/ [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]