[cobirds] Yard List, Bent County CO
Birders, I was going to pass on this until someone involved in the yard bird discussion implored to me post highlights of my 1+ acre yard in Las Animas, Bent County CO, where I've lived since 2000. My yard list currently stands at 195 species. Many of you have been to my yard, since I love posting reproducible birds to the public, and welcome visitors when I have rare birds around. Many Colorado birders have added life or state birds here, including White-winged Crossbill, Costa's Hummingbird, Ruby-throated Hummingbird and Canada Warbler. I'm going to post a list of what I consider unusual birds I've had that might not have been reported by other landowners: Cattle Egret, Green Heron, White-faced Ibis, Northern Goshawk, Ring-necked Pheasant, Wild Turkey, Scaled Quail, Northern Bobwhite, Sora (nocturnal flight call), White-winged Dove, Inca Dove, Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Common Poorwill (flushed from the ground during migration several times). Six species of Hummingbirds including Ruby-throated Hummingbirds (most years, especially in September) and Costa's Hummingbird (seen by close to 100 observers), Nine species of Woodpeckers, including Lewis', Red-headed, Red-bellied (I had a male winter at my suet feeders), Yellow-bellied and Red-naped Sapsuckers, and Ladder-backed Woodpecker. Olive-sided, Yellow-bellied and Gray Flycatchers. Eastern and Say's Phoebes, Ash-throated and Great-crested Flycatchers, as well as Cassin's Kingbird. Flocks of Pinon Jays in two separate years, as well as single Steller's Jays two years. These are both exceedingly rare east of the mountains. Four uncommon species of Vireo, including Blue-headed, Cassin's, Yellow-throated and Red-eyed. Eastern and Mountain Bluebirds, and one Veery. Gray Catbird, Sage Thrasher, Curve-billed Thrasher (practically every winter). Brown Creeper, Golden-crowned Kinglet, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, Bushtit, Mountain Chickadee, Black-capped Chickadee (absent in SE Colorado for over 20 years now as a result of West Nile Disease). American Pipit (showed up in my driveway after I shoveled deep snow). Purple Finch and Cassin's Finch (photographed together) Red Crossbill, White-winged Crossbill (a life bird for many, this bird stayed for a week), Evening Grosbeak. Sixteen species of Warbler, including Tennessee, Nashville, Black-throated Gray Warbler, Blackburnian Warbler, American Redstart, Ovenbird (bird bath), Hooded Warbler (bird bath), and Canada Warbler (which I put on the RBA and was seen by many). If I shovel snow at night, I often hear Lapland Longspurs passing over on their way to find habitat with less snow. Earlier this winter, I heard a Chestnut-collared Longspur passing south with the Lapland Longspurs as I shoveled snow in the dark). Sparrows, including Fox (eastern), Harris' White-throated, Vesper, and Cassin's. Four species of towhees, including a male Eastern Towhee. Summer Tanager, Dickcissel, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Northern Cardinal (singing males, twice), Blue Grosbeak, Indigo Bunting (Colorado's first documented winter record, on the John Martin Reservoir CBC). Baltimore and Bullock's Orioles. I hope you enjoy this sampling of birds found in the far southeast part of Colorado, 100 miles east of the mountains. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate. * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/YAYZIRM7JMU4.EI8Z88ZWUW5M1%40luweb01oc.
[cobirds] Cinnamon Teal in Bent County
Birders, I'm not quite ready to declare that winter is over in SE Colorado, but I saw a male Cinnamon Teal near the junction of the Arkansas and Purgatoire Rivers in Bent County today. This is my first January sighting of this species in SE Colorado. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/1JIPHJ1B4MU4.R89P24IW6I043%40luweb02oc.
[cobirds] Thick-billed Longspurs in Bent County, Co
Birders, The historic cold spell has eased, and daytime temperatures are finally above freezing. Today, I ventured north from Las Animas CO on County Road 10 toward Adobe Creek Reservoir. At the small pond on the east side of Road 10, about 8 miles north of SH 194, I was rewarded with seeing multiple flocks of Thick-billed Longspurs coming to the pond in waves, and finding pockets of drinking water on the edge of the frozen pond. This winter, this is a great place to see these uncommon wintering birds. There is a major road construction project on Road 10, which made it impossible for me to reach Adobe Creek Reservoir. I don't think it's possible to combine the Longspur pond with Adobe Creek reservoir without a major detour. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/RP2OK74D3MU4.MS69VELAOB8O3%40luweb03oc.
[cobirds] John Martin Reservoir CBC results
Birders, The John Martin Reservoir CBC took place on Monday, December 18th, postponed by a major storm event on the scheduled count day of December 14th. The 16 participants were rewarded with a calm day with temperatures in the upper 50s and light winds. 108 species were tallied, for an average of 6.75 species added to the count for every participant. Truly, every participant makes a difference to count results here. This is an average count for this CBC. Many unusual birds were seen, with some first-time misses. New for the count were 3 LONG-BILLED DOWITCHERS. Four shorebird species were found (Killdeer, Least Sandpiper, Greater Yellowlegs and the Dowitchers). Perhaps for the first time, Wilson's Snipe could not be found. Nearly all expected duck species were found, some (like Red-breasted Merganser) in record numbers. "Puddle" ducks were conspicuous, especially on Lake Hasty. We often have a hard time finding them on this count. One Long-tailed Duck was found among thousands of other waterfowl on the Reservoir, but there were no Scoters. Notably absent was Wood Duck, missed for the first time (I have noticed increased hunter pressure at all of their favorite haunts). Snow Geese numbers were way down, with only 5000 on the reservoir. Only 4 species of gulls were located, well below average. Despite open water, there were no Loons, and only one Eared Grebe, not normal for this count. Land birds picked up some of the slack. Three Ladder-backed Woodpeckers was a new high for the count. One party found a Say's Phoebe. There were single Gray Catbirds and Curve-billed Thrashers. The count tallied a Red-breasted Nuthatch for only the second time. Wrens highlighted the count with four Bewick's Wrens, one Winter Wren, and one CAROLINA WREN, for the second time on the count. We found no warblers, unusual for the count. Our counters are good at finding wintering sparrows. One party found six Savannah Sparrows. Another found a Lincoln's Sparrow. Four Harris' Sparrows was a high for the count. Song and American Tree Sparrows were seen in record low numbers, while White-crowned Sparrows seem to have taken over the planet here. The most popular bird on the count was a female EASTERN TOWHEE, seen and photographed by more than half the count participants. I have stopped feeding in the bottomlands it haunts, as it's so labor intensive, and passing trains and hordes of hunters make seeing it dangerous. Four Northern Cardinals were tallied at three separate locations, often near the Towhees. Blackbirds were well represented on the count, with all eight species of grackles, blackbirds as well as Brown-headed Cowbird present in good numbers. Six Rusty Blackbirds at a feedlot provided a new count high. Some year, maybe the stars will align, and land, water and mountain birds will all show up in the same year. We'll keep trying. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent Counnty, CO -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/4M38BC27TLU4.JD86HH0OZAWD3%40luweb02oc.
[cobirds] Thick-billed Longspurs in Bent County, CO
Birders, I observed multiple Thick-billed Longspurs at a pond in Bent County, CO today. They are visiting a stock pond on the east side of Road 10 midway between Adobe Creek Reservoir and Las Animas. This is an historic site in years when the pond has water in it, which it does this year, thanks to a recent wet winter and summer. It should be possible to see (and photograph) the longspurs well, if one is patient and waits for their short visits when they come in to drink. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/3SUDKA8VPLU4.TP5VR0ZIRJNY1%40luweb03oc.
[cobirds] Kiowa County, CO, November 18, 2023
I easily found the immature Black-legged Kittiwake, first found by Glenn Walbek, at the Long Lake playa south of Haswell in Kiowa County CO, this morning. Also present were a late Black-bellied Plover and 7 late Sandhill Cranes. At nearby Adobe Creek Reservoir, I saw two immature/female Black Scoters from the lakefront just northeast of the Boat Ramp (Kiowa County). They were not far offshore, in the southeast corner of the north part of the reservoir. The scoters were never more than a few feet apart. On the spit north of the dam of Adobe Creek Reservoir (Bent County), there was a very late Pectoral Sandpiper. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/DZA8JFDEJLU4.MRO0DVW96FFK3%40luweb01oc.
[cobirds] Wildfire near Van's Grove, John Martin SWA, Bent County CO
Birders, In recent years, every April seems to have a devastating wildfire somewhere on Federal Property at John Martin Reservoir. There is, right this minute, a devastating fire in the marshes and bottomland of the west end of the reservoir, near Van's Grove. There were countless road blocks, emergency responders, and even two aircraft attempting to suppress the flames. As I drove through thick smoke on US 50, I saw that Van's Grove appears to be spared for now, but that fire looks to have burned the Gageby Creek marshes just east of Van's Grove. I would expect County Road JJ to be closed for a while. On a brighter note, I found a male Northern Parula this afternoon in the tall juniper tree just north of the playground at Lake Hasty Campground. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/5NHHB7RWPJU4.IJ0H5YGZ7A4C1%40luweb01oc.
[cobirds] American White Pelicans return to John Martin Reservoir (Bent County) in SE Colorado
Birders, Birding here in the banana belt of Southeast Colorado has been extraordinarily slow this winter, due to ice formation on most Reservoirs in November, countless subzero cold snaps and snow events, and a failure of most of the food crop. Things took a turn toward our normal today, with the return of at least 37 migrating American White Pelicans to the west end of John Martin Reservoir, despite the lake remaining at least 99 percent covered with ice. I've noted before that American White Pelican may be the harbinger of spring here, appearing in numbers some years the last week of January. Numbers of some waterfowl are also picking up, with increases in the numbers of Northern Pintail, American Wigeon, Canvasback, Redhead and Green-winged Teal. Of course, we're bracing for our next winter storm warning, beginning tomorrow night. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/I91XFJ9A6JU4.RI7CR2N8WGX72%40luweb02oc.
[cobirds] John Martin Reservoir CBC results
Birders, The John Martin Reservoir Christmas Bird Count took place on December 14, 2022. This year, sixteen people contributed, a few more than our average. There were seven teams. This area received a surprise snowstorm on the night of December 12, and groups had to deal with up to six inches of wet snow and frigid temperatures, dipping to 2 degrees F at the start of the count. Nevertheless, we persisted. We ended up the day with 106 species, maybe a species or two below our average. Rather than dwelling on the multiple Count Week species we missed, I want to focus on the great birds we found. Perhaps the biggest obstacle we faced this year was an unseasonable cold spell in November that almost totally froze the Reservoir, and drove out late migrants like shorebirds, loons, grebes, and diving ducks. Bird flu didn't help. This year, there were only a few lingering American White Pelicans and Double Crested Cormorants. We found low numbers of many duck species that are sometimes absent on the count. Almost all dabbling ducks were present, as well as most Aythya ducks. We had no loons or scoters, and only single Eared and Western Grebes. The lone shorebird this year was a single Greater Yellowlegs. We had only five species of gull, including Bonaparte's, Lesser Black-backed and Iceland (Thayer's) Many groups found exciting landbirds, including Yellow-headed Blackbird, Brown Thrasher, Gray Catbird, American Pipit, Woodhouse's Scrub-Jay, Canyon Wren, Rock Wren, Savannah, Lincoln's and Swamp Sparrows, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Eastern Bluebird, Mountain Bluebird, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Brown Creeper and White-breasted Nuthatch (eastern). Our lone new bird for the count was Mexican Duck. It would take some luck to find it amongst the 11,000 Common Mergansers, 3,000 Common Goldeneyes (no Barrow's this year) and thousands of Mallards present. I'm sure I missed a couple of birds, but I hope I captured the spirit of the count. Thanks to the many expert birders that helped this year. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/6SSMCSOXNIU4.ILSVVIAPQU3I2%40luweb01oc.
[cobirds] Pygmy Nuthatch at Hasty CG, Bent County
Birders, I saw and photographed an apparent first Bent County record of Pygmy Nuthatch this afternoon at Hasty Campground, below the dam at John Martin Reservoir. I first saw it in tall trees near campsite 73, then photographed it in a tree on top of the rectangular "hill" 50 yards to the east. Hasty Campground had more migrant birds today than in all of the multiple trips I've taken this fall migration season there combined. Best were: Blue-headed Vireo, Ovenbird and Hammond's Flycatcher. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/1672710067.6385570.1663975993385.JavaMail.zimbra%40centurytel.net.
Re: [cobirds] SULPHUR-bellied FLYCATCHER, Chico basin 9/10
Great find, and within the expected window of Sulphur-bellied Flycatchers showing up out of range in North America. I found the first state record of Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher at Adobe Creek Reservoir (Bent County) on September 18th, 2002. It was the first record for the interior of the continent, although there had been records during the same window of time in Louisiana and New England. Here is a picture I took on September 18, 2002, of the Colorado Bird. This was a bird I didn't expect to be seen again in Colorado. Many Colorado birders of an earlier generation got to see this bird. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO From: "Peter Burke" To: "cobirds" Sent: Saturday, September 10, 2022 10:17:04 AM Subject: [cobirds] SULPHUR-bellied FLYCATCHER, Chico basin 9/10 A Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher was seen well and photographed in a field behind the banding station and the Casita. !!! -- Best, Peter Burke -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at [ http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en | http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en ] * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists [ https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ | https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ ] --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to [ mailto:cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com | cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com ] . To view this discussion on the web visit [ https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/CACjv0GarJZd5JNOPThjw9aUoev4GMwnJ6z_9eMcS9%2BxV_uAvOw%40mail.gmail.com?utm_medium=email_source=footer | https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/CACjv0GarJZd5JNOPThjw9aUoev4GMwnJ6z_9eMcS9%2BxV_uAvOw%40mail.gmail.com ] . -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/753451911.6466162.1662844808354.JavaMail.zimbra%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Bent County landbirds, 5/5/22
Birders, The Wood Thrush I reported yesterday at Van's Grove was still there late this afternoon, as were the two Black-and-white Warblers. At Hasty Campground I saw and heard a male Northern Parula, as well as a singing male Tennessee Warbler. Despite rain yesterday afternoon and overnight, and a front that should have deposited more birds, bird numbers in the campground were way down. At Tempel Grove, I ran into two other birders, and we saw an Ovenbird below the Melody Tempel bench. Like Hasty Campground, bird activity was low. My prize of the day was a female Hooded Warbler. It was in Clayton Grove, the only woodlot on the two-track connecting the east and west ends of the north side of John Martin Reservoir, best approached from Road JJ just east of Road 20. This woodlot has a few small cottonwoods, too many invasive salt cedar trees, and more down trees than standing ones. For this reason, I don't think the chances of re-finding this bird are very good. It was loosely associating with a female Wilson's Warbler. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/452668791.98238185.1651791258869.JavaMail.zimbra%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Wood Thrush at Van's Grove, Bent County, CO 5/4/22
Birders, I found and photographed a Wood Thrush at Van's Grove (Bent County, CO) this morning. I was able to relocate it for two parties later in the day. While we were trying to re-find it, we saw a female American Redstart and two Black-and-White Warblers (together!). Also present was a singing White-throated Sparrow. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/358913052.96903899.1651706999573.JavaMail.zimbra%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Bent County birds, 5/2/2022
Birders, On a blustery day with north winds reaching 40 mph, I ventured to John Martin State Park to buy an annual State Parks Pass. I dared to get out of my car in the Hasty Campground. It was worth it, despite having to wear a winter parka and hat. Near Campsite 79, I had a singing male Northern Parula, a male Black-and-White Warbler, a male Blackpoll Warbler, and a singing Plumbeous Vireo. On the gravel under the slide in the playground, I photographed an Ovenbird. I undoubtedly missed some birds due to the howling wind and cold. At Van's Grove, I had another Northern Parula, this time a female. There are numerous closures due to fires, but I saw my third Northern Parula of the day on the east side of Bent County Road 16 just east of the closed Ft. Lyon Wildlife Easement. Respectfully, Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/314373818.94105585.1651530205925.JavaMail.zimbra%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Cape May Warbler at Hasty Campground, Bent County
Birders, An adult Cape May Warbler was seen this morning at Hasty Campground below the dam at John Martin Reservoir. It was seen east of the south side parking lot, just northwest of the three dumpsters. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/895238685.83880786.1650826116710.JavaMail.zimbra%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] John Martin Reservoir CBC results
Birders, The strategy of conducting the John Martin Reservoir on a weekday, as early in the season as possible, worked this year, as water was open, and late migrants continue to pass through. Fourteen observers found 112 species of birds, with another 5 species seen Count Week (CW) only. Three new species were added to the Count. The four expected geese species were counted, but a CW Greater White-fronted Goose avoided detection. Due to open water, 16 duck species were found. Many duck species prefer Lake Hasty to the reservoir proper, and since it was open, most expected duck species were there. Many duck species show up on Lake Hasty for a day, and are gone. This year, Redheads, American Wigeons, Bufflehead, Ruddy Duck, Northern Pintail and Lesser Scaup were present (all can be difficult to find in winter here). Present CW but not Count Day were Canvasback and Ring-necked Duck. The duck highlight was a cooperative Long-tailed Duck on South Lake Hasty. The reservoir proper had lots of mergansers of all three species, as well as 2500 Common Goldeneye. Elusive Scaled Quail, Ring-necked Pheasant and Wild Turkey were found. The three smaller grebe species were present, but the larger grebes were not present this year. Double-digit Double-crested Cormorants lingered, while American Pelican numbers appear to be increasing almost daily. We counted nearly 200. One of the three new species added to the count was a well-documented and observed Red-throated Loon. Eight expected raptor species were found. Bald Eagle numbers were a tiny fraction of usual. Both rails were encountered. Four species of shorebirds were present, but not found without extra effort. While Killdeer and Wilson's Snipe are expected, Greater Yellowlegs are unpredictable. Stealing the show were five Least Sandpipers, new to the Count. Only five Gull species were documented, with nothing either Black-backed or pale found. All four Dove species were found. It takes a little luck to find White-winged and Mourning Doves here on Count Day. Two parties conducted owling forays. Both encountered Western Screech-Owl. The habitat at Karney Ranch SWA that formerly hosted Eastern Screech-Owls produced none. Habitat "improvement" there by CPW might play a role. The only rare woodpecker was a single Ladder-backed. There was no mountain bird invasion here this year, and many montane or canyon country birds were absent. The only Jay species found was Blue Jay. Both Raven species were found, with many sightings relegated to "Raven sp.". Hard-working parties found Bushtit, White-breasted Nuthatch, Rock Wren and a single Marsh Wren (where are they this year?). Only one tiny group of Eastern Bluebirds was found, but there were lots of American Robins and Townsend's Solitaires. A single American Pipit and a handful of Cedar Waxwings were found. Lapland Longspur numbers here this year are really low, but they were found. Both Brown Creeper and Blue-gray Gnatcatcher were CW only. Yellow-rumped Warblers were found near Fort Lyon. The most exciting bird of the count was a male Northern Parula, found along the Arkansas River below the dam. It was found by Dave Leatherman CW, and would have been missed on the Count without advance scouting, because it was very elusive on Count Day. Nine species of Sparrow were found, including rare Field, Harris', Savannah, Lincoln's, and Swamp. Both expected Towhees were found, as were Northern Cardinal, both Grackles, Brown-headed Cowbird and Brewer's Blackbird. A few Pine Siskins were present, as was a Lesser Goldfinch. Good luck to other CBC participants and compilers as the CBC season progresses. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/53f740b0-3df1-65d6-8f29-b9f7d199a9a6%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] A couple of Lake Hasty (Bent County) birds
Birders, The Lake Hasty area provides a welcome respite from the intensive hunting activity around John Martin Reservoir this time of year. A few interesting birds were here on November 27th. A Long-tailed Duck has been present on South Lake Hasty on both November 26th and today. I think this is a different bird than the one I reported on November 18th. I saw a Greater White-fronted Goose with many Cackling Geese on North Lake Hasty today. I saw presumably the same individual on November 23rd, but missed it on intervening days. It seems like a lot of geese come in after feeding in nearby fields in mid-morning, and sometimes, the Greater White-fronted Goose joins them. A Snow Bunting called in flight over Lake Hasty today. There are still multiple species of shorebirds present, especially in the stilling basin below the dam. Unfortunately, fishermen seem to really like the gravel bars where the shorebirds gather, and when they are there, shorebirds are not. As recently as November 26th, there were 36 Killdeer and 4 Least Sandpipers present, and on November 22nd, a possibly-wintering Spotted Sandpiper was in the same area. Greater Yellowlegs still present prefer the river or islands in Lake Hasty. A fact of life here this time of year is cold nights, and there is often a rim of ice along parts of Lake Hasty, the Arkansas River, or west end of the Reservoir. Hasty Campground now has two White-breasted Nuthatches, but Eastern Bluebirds, Red-bellied Woodpeckers and Wild Turkeys are a no-show so far this winter there. There are still American White Pelicans and Double-crested Cormorants present, seen from the dam, but large numbers of waterfowl have yet to appear. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/dfe2b1e4-c1d2-2ce6-1a27-3b3e71a557c2%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Long-tailed Duck and Least Sandpipers at Lake Hasty, Bent County, CO
Birders, There was an immature / female Long-tailed Duck today on South Lake Hasty. This bird is rare, but regular, in Bent County in the late fall and winter. More interesting to me were the shorebirds still present. Today, there were six Least Sandpipers inconspicuously inserted among the large number of Killdeer in the stilling basin beneath John Martin Dam. Today, I counted 28, but there may be more. Greater Yellowlegs are still present, with five counted today on islets in Lake Hasty. They move around a lot, and can almost always be encountered along the Arkansas River or ponds where water is not yet frozen. While Killdeer and Greater Yellowlegs are almost always encountered on John Martin Reservoir CBCs, Least Sandpiper would be new to the count. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/7af4d523-c89f-bfdb-c132-2ebff4c223fb%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Ruby-throated Hummingbird GONE?
Birders, The immature male Ruby-throated Hummingbird that graced my feeders since October 7th appears to have departed. It was present through at least mid-morning today, when I left home for a birding-hiking loop trip. I did not see it when I returned home in mid-afternoon, and have not seen it through dusk. I will update cobirds only if I see it again. I'm really glad I posted this bird, and that seeing it delighted so many people. I look forward to sharing my next rare bird with the birding community. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/63de9e59-f74e-642b-4c66-e814cceff9dc%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Ruby-throated Hummingbird in Bent County update
Birders, The immature male Ruby-throated Hummingbird appeared before 7 a.m. in my yard in Las Animas (Bent County), marking its fourth consecutive day here. As with every other day, I don't know when it will tank up and depart. Birders are welcome.. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/8c261612-86ae-9a3d-a445-2b5a0ffa8539%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Ruby-throated Hummingbird in Bent County update
Birders, The immature Ruby-throated Hummingbird visiting my feeders in Las Animas was present through dusk today. Birders are welcome. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/7b2e9311-d6de-63e9-db52-192d9b09481c%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Ruby-throated Hummingbird in Bent County
Birders, The immature male Ruby-throated Hummingbird first found at my feeders in Las Animas on October 7th is still here this morning. I have no idea how long it will stay before migrating, but birders are welcome to look. View from the lawn chairs near the feeders. Duane Nelson Las Animas (Bent County, CO) -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/b54541d8-ec5f-fa2e-ad14-170511557619%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] He's Back! (Ruby-throated Hummingbird in Las Animas, that is)
Birders, Thinking the immature male Ruby-throated Hummingbird at my feeder was gone, I went to Lake Hasty to look for migrants this afternoon. The best bird was a Townsend's Warbler in a juniper on the rectangular "hill" in the south-central part of the campground. When I got home, the Ruby-throated Hummingbird was waiting. I presume it will be here through the afternoon, and possibly tomorrow morning. Birders are welcome to look for it. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/a2e44890-0434-9626-47e1-12a40cb15eb3%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Ruby-throated Hummingbird GONE?
Birders, I'd love to host birders for the Ruby-throated Hummingbird that showed up this morning at my feeders in Las Animas (Bent County, CO) , but I haven't seen it in almost two hours, and I fear it may have departed. I won't post again unless it returns. Duane Nelson Las Animas, CO -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/4b0c56e3-c0ac-3016-e554-da73cf2587d6%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Costa's Hummingbird GONE?
Birders, The immature male Costa's Hummingbird in my yard since September 10th appears to have left, after a nine-day visit. This morning at 7:08, it took a really long drink from one of the feeders, flew up to a perch, and returned to my other feeder for another long drink at 7:12. I haven't seen it since. I just spent an hour outside specifically looking for it, and did not see it. My one remaining Black-chinned Hummingbird fed unmolested two times around 9 a.m., something that was not common during the Costa's reign. I'm trying to get this out before others make the long drive to Las Animas from practically anywhere. I've had a great time hosting approximately 60 visitors over the past nine days, and promise I got as much out of the experience as I gave. I met new friends, and got to share something special with many people. I'd highly recommend hosting a rare bird. I won't update again unless the bird returns. Thanks, everyone! Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/561d12e8-bdd7-6828-1bb3-172833037166%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Costa's Hummingbird in Bent County update
Birders, Five parties observed the Costa's Hummingbird in my Las Animas yard today from early morning through 3:30 p.m. This morning, it sat in plain sight in the cold, cloudy, windy weather most of the time, possibly slowing down it's metabolism to stay warm. Around noon, bugs began to appear, and the hummingbird began to hunt them. As it warmed into the low 70s, it disappeared for over and hour, and I thought it may have departed. I can't say I was unhappy at the prospect that the bird might have departed and corrected it's wayward ways. Currently, the bird is roosting within a few feet of the feeders, and I'm quite sure it will be here at dawn. I will update cobirds if the bird returns tomorrow morning. Visitors are welcome. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/99332cd8-ea49-1f49-efda-2b1d70696364%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Costa's Hummingbird in Bent County update
Birders, The immature male Costa's hummingbird visiting my feeders in Las Animas, Bent County, CO has returned this morning for the eighth consecutive day. Birders are welcome to look for it, although my lawn chairs may not be upright when you arrive. We are currently under a high wind warning due to the passage of a strong cold front. So far, the wind isn't strong enough to tip and empty the feeders, and winds are predicted to ease after 10 a.m. The hummingbird seems oblivious to the swaying branches and perches. Duane Nelson Las Animas, CO -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/11d8d6e9-96e5-01cf-1efc-bbb0962f0b3f%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Costa's Hummingbird in Bent County update
Birders, The immature male Costa's Hummingbird in my yard in Las Animas, Bent County CO has been present and easily seen from just before sunrise through at least 6:20 p.m today. I will post tomorrow morning if it returns. Birders are still welcome. Since hummingbirds migrate during the day, I know there will be a first person to miss it. In the event the bird leaves during the day, I will post as soon the bird potentially departs. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County CO -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/405c88a3-08ea-3800-4ced-661ab73c463d%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Costa's Hummingbird in Las Animas (Bent County) update
Birders, The immature male Costa's Hummingbird in my yard in Las Animas has already appeared today. This is the seventh day it has been here. Birders are welcome to visit. I have not left my yard since last Sunday in order to accommodate visitors, and am starting to feel the need to resume some aspects of a normal life, like grocery shopping or (gasp!) birding. Las Animas, CO -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/bd191081-35a9-eaa6-f19d-35f1b1e823aa%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Costa's Hummingbird in Las Animas, Bent County update
Birders, The immature male Costa's Hummingbird visiting my feeders in Las Animas is still here this morning. Storms last night bypassed Las Animas, but currently there is dense fog, which should burn off later this morning. Birders are welcome to visit as long as the bird is here. Please park along the side of my circular driveway instead of on East 6th Street. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/d64248fc-0d7b-8e7f-d2a7-03777d1095e4%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Costa's Hummingbird in Bent County update
Birders, The immature male Costa's Hummingbird in my yard in Las Animas since 9/10 is still present this afternoon. It's behavior today has been different. It has spent a lot of time flycatching high in trees, sometimes being out of sight for longer periods of time. I'm not sure whether this indicates it is stocking up on calories before departing for points unknown. I will update cobirds tomorrow morning if the bird is still here. Birders are still welcome. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/9bad93f9-e89f-6454-652f-6060e0d41829%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Costa's Hummingbird in Las Animas, Bent County CO update
Birders, The immature male Costa's Hummingbird visiting my feeders in Las Animas just put in it's first appearance of the morning, the fifth day he has been here. Visitors are welcome. I prefer if people park in my circular driveway rather than on rather busy 6th Street. Duane Nelson Las Animas, CO -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/d772853d-9fdf-86ec-8242-4af80cef8f47%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Costa's Hummingbird update
Birders, The subadult male Costa's Hummingbird visiting feeders in my yard in Las Animas, Bent County CO has been present more or less continuously since sunrise this morning. Many birders have seen it today. I will update cobirds on the status of this rare vagrant tomorrow morning. Birders are welcome. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/e550def2-7881-d4df-1c5f-ecbd826b5bca%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Costa's Hummingbird update
Birders, The immature male Costa's Hummingbird I've hosted at my feeders in Las Animas (Bent County) since September 10th just put in it's first appearance of the day. Birders are welcome to visit my yard to look for it. No need to notify me in advance, but I will try to be here if I know you are coming. Duane Nelson Las Animas CO -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/0a9f089b-53c3-85e8-bc36-cedb4b986f78%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Costa's Hummingbird update
Birders, The immature male Costa's Hummingbird visiting my feeders in Las Animas, Bent County, is still present this afternoon. Photographers with much more talent than me have posted spectacular pictures to ebird. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/3425489f-6660-0263-f463-9d88b5568c5f%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Costa's Hummingbird in Las Animas update
Birders, The immature male Costa's Hummingbird visiting my feeders in Las Animas, Bent County, CO. made it's first appearance at 6;23 this morning. Birders are welcome. The bird can take longer to see in the afternoon, when temperatures have been rising above 100 degrees, and it is not actively feeding or chasing the few Black-chinned Hummingbirds that remain. As with all migratory birds, I can't guarantee how long it will stick around. Duane Nelson 342 E. 6th St. Las Animas, CO -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/feba69c2-8975-1c74-96b8-f7f0722ee354%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Costa's Hummingbird in Bent County update
Birders, The immature male Costa's Hummingbird in my yard in Las Animas (Bent County) CO is still present and providing good looks to observers as of 1 p.m. today. Birders are welcome. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/4870af5c-cd90-ba55-397a-3c41888eea55%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Costa's Hummingbird in Bent County
Birders, The immature male Costa's Hummingbird I reported at my feeders in Las Animas yesterday is present again this morning. No guarantees how long it will stay, but birders are welcome to look. Yesterday, it was hard to see in mid-afternoon when temperatures soared above 100 degrees F, but it returned to my feeders for regular visits in the late afternoon and early evening. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/c3314b54-2fce-c92d-e7c2-26a88c7dc60b%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Fire at Van's Grove, Bent County CO
Birders, A fire began at 10:30 last night on US 50 eight miles east of Las Animas CO, with the passage of a storm front. I read that the fire started along US 50, moved south with north winds, was confined to a wet stream bottom and and had jumped Bent County Road JJ, with only one structure threatened. I figured it had to be close to Van's Grove, and that the stream bottom was along Gageby Creek. Sure enough, the fire went through legendary bird migrant trap Van's Grove, burning a lot of trees and all of the undergrowth. There were some parts of the grove that did not burn, although the prairie on all sides, and Gageby Marsh did. It remains to be seen how bad the damage is, but, for now, it looks pretty bad. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/0a72d01d-7a4c-ceb3-80ba-fd693fd05b60%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Tree Swallow in Bent County
Birders, I observed a lone Tree Swallow foraging over a pond in the Ft. Lyon part of the John Martin State Wildlife Area this morning. The pond system where the bird was seen was half a mile south of the 5-way stop sign in Ft. Lyon. At the faded SWA sign, head west about a mile to the pond. This is probably the earliest in spring I've ever seen any swallow species in Colorado. I am guessing that birders have encountered swallows this early (or earlier) in favorable locations like around Pueblo or Chatfield Reservoirs. Despite the ominous weather forecast in the northern part of the state, spring is here! Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate * Join Colorado Field Ornithologists https://cobirds.org/CFO/Membership/ --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/893913df-85af-db7f-fea2-97ab0b3d87a9%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Purple Finch in Bent County
Birders, I saw and photographed (poorly) a female type Purple Finch at Las Animas Junction (on the east side of the Purgatoire River railroad bridge east of Las Animas CO) today. Due to record cold and snow, I felt compelled to feed the Northern Cardinals and other forest dwelling birds I've sporadically fed there since the John Martin Reservoir CBC. I've seen Purple Finches here four times since December, but this is the first time one has come to the ground to feed, so it is more likely to remain as long as I continue to scatter seed and the snow doesn't melt. Let me know if you're interested in more information about seeing the Purple Finch. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com For more options, visit this group at http://groups.google.com/group/cobirds?hl=en?hl=en * All posts should be signed with the poster's full name and city. Include bird species and location in the subject line when appropriate --- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/8c41bd1c-d238-6212-cf43-2ca2aade00bd%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Remembering Joe Roller
Birders, Like many people he touched, I wanted to share a personal recollection of Joe Roller. I got to know him in the 1980s, and we were friends for almost 40 years, but one memory stands out to me. Unknown to me, Joe nominated me in 2012 for /Bird Conservancy of the Rockies/ most prestigious award, the Richard G. Levad Award, for my decades of working with Piping Plovers and Least Terns in Colorado. He vetted me with my former associates at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Albuquerque District) and Colorado Parks and Wildlife. I was invited to attend the/Bird Conservancy of the Rockies///annual picnic at Barr Lake, where I was shocked to receive the award, with many supporters in presence. Joe and I had been long-term friends, but we were bonded for life by this event. To say it was a highlight of my personal and professional career would be an understatement. I was so touched by Joe's initiative that I wanted to give back to /Bird Conservancy of the Rockies. /For many years, I conducted annual tours to SE Colorado to see Piping Plovers and Least Terns in coordination with /Bird Conservancy of the Rockies /for their Board of Directors and most dedicated supporters. I made lifelong friends and connections with a lot of really great people. And I owe it all to Joe Roller. Rest in peace, my friend. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO // -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/11e44d4c-5da3-de28-9b75-38b9b79dc8cc%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Long-tailed Duck in Bent County, CO
Birders, Aside from maybe 50,000 white geese, winter has been slow to show at John Martin Reservoir in SE Colorado. There are still Common Loons, Bonaparte's Gulls, Double-crested Cormorants, and lots of Western Grebes still present on the reservoir proper, but very few migrant and wintering ducks. A pleasant surprise was a very cooperative female Long-tailed Duck on Lake Hasty. It was in the northwest corner of the south lake, close to shore. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/097478ac-418c-83ec-95d5-ece0e34ea687%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] American Golden-Plovers and Dunlin in Bent County
Birders, Despite the record-breaking cold and snow earlier this week, shorebird migration is still in progress in SE Colorado. Today, I observed two American Golden-Plovers (foraging and in flight) and a Dunlin at Adobe Creek Reservoir (Blue Lake). They were on the north side of the south lake associating with at least 10 species of shorebirds. From the east side of the lake, west of the boat ramp, look for a two-track heading to the channel separating the north lake (mostly in Kiowa County) and the south lake (entirely in Bent County). Drive south as far as you feel comfortable, and scan the north end of the lake. A scope will be helpful. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/beec01b1-d2af-f64f-4d36-95866e3d420c%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Red Phalarope in Bent County
Birders, I found a Red Phalarope today on the south end of Adobe Creek Reservoir (Blue Lake) in Bent County, CO. It was loosely associating with a Red-necked Phalarope. From Road 10, accessed by State Highway 194 just northwest of Las Animas, go north about 10 miles to Road UU. Turn west on UU, and take it to the dam. Take the two-track on the east side of the outlet canal north as far as you can, then walk a couple hundred yards north to the lake. Both Phalaropes were swimming in shallow water just offshore, associating with Greater Yellowlegs in the shallow bay on the west side of the outlet canal. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/183de328-0494-d4cf-2a8c-ea0e5e00437f%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Black-throated Green Warbler in Bent County
Birders, Just before noon today, I found an adult female (or very similar first year male) Black-throated Green Warbler at Clayton Grove on the north side of John Martin SWA. This grove is along the north border of the State Wildlife area about four miles west of the dam. This has been a banner year for Townsend's Warblers in this part of the state, and the Black-throated Green Warbler was in the same flock as a female Townsend's Warbler. Seeing both of these similar species within a couple of feet of each other in the same binocular field was a first for me. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/80143032-4064-cab8-4799-a46ce1c14db9%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Pinyon Jays in Bent County
Birders, I just had two calling Pinyon Jays fly through, and briefly land, in my yard in Las Animas, Bent County CO. This is only the second time I've had them in my yard, or in the lower Arkansas River Valley, and may signal an irruption away from their normal habitat in the canyon country farther to the south and west. Be on the lookout for this very rare visitor. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/a5078cc8-c037-d2c5-d207-76f18b4374d6%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Canyon Towhee in Las Animas, and more
Birders, Although they are not considered strongly migratory, Canyon Towhees are only present in the fall, winter and spring around Las Animas, Bent County. I get them in my yard about three out of every four years, and they often stay until spring. My first one of the season just appeared this afternoon. I still have a couple of Black-chinned Hummingbirds frequenting my feeders. Birders are welcome, but I'd prefer advance notice. I went to Adobe Creek Reservoir (Bent and Kiowa Counties) this morning, and failed to find Reddish Egret, American Golden-Plover, Sabine's Gull or anything I consider worthy of posting to cobirds. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/75ac1759-2b71-79cb-a650-654294314deb%40centurytel.net.
Re: [cobirds] Russian olive removal
Birders, Since Dave Leatherman asked for my input about the habitat of the Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher I found at Adobe Creek Reservoir in Bent County in September 2002, I'll weigh in. The improbable habitat used by that bird was stunted tamarisk (salt-cedar) trees along abandoned inlet canals on the west side of the reservoir. While there were a couple of Russian-Olives and sickly cottonwood trees scattered there, that did not seem to be the habitat preferred by the bird. I have another species that I did observe in Russian-Olive habitat, that was definitely feeding on the fruits. A Piratic Flycatcher was present at Ft. Sumner, New Mexico in September of 2003. It was confined to Russian-Olives. I saw that bird on September 16th (ironically, today is the anniversary of that sighting) with Brian Gibbons. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO On 9/15/2020 10:33 AM, DAVID A LEATHERMAN wrote: The Russian-olive removal at Crow Valley Campground was done at the behest of the US Forest Service who is in charge of the area. These days the USFS does almost all on-the-ground work, except firefighting, through contractors. I believe the removal of the olives at Crow Valley Campground was performed by some locals out of Briggsdale. My guess as to how this all went down is that there was a pot of money in a veg management account that would have to be returned if not spent by September 30 (the end of the federal fiscal year), somebody in Greeley or Washington knew about, or ascribed to, the paradigm that R-o is evil, also knew that giving a contract to the two guys with a dog, chainsaw, magnetic sign and pick-up would give somebody brownie points for "hiring local", and it was done deal. As far as I can tell, it was a quick and dirty operation with no removal of the cut wood, no treatment of the stumps, no replacement planting of "better" species, no interpretive material on-site or explanation given to the Campground Host (in case he was asked why it was done). If somebody knows a different story about how this all happened, I am open to correction. As stated, the paradigm amongst most CO natural resource agencies, be they federal, state, county or city, is that Russian-olive is evil and deserves eradication. This is a fairly new school of thought. Following the Dust Bowl, R-o was planted widely promoted and planted as a helpful remedy on the Great Plains. The federal Soil Conservation Service (now the NRCS) was its biggest promoter. R-o grows well in harsh places and we all know the world is getting harsher by the minute. The Colorado State Forest Service I used to work for has the last government tree nursery standing in CO and grows/sells approximately 2 million seedlings of all types a year. They only quit offering R-o in the 1990's, mostly because it was PC to do so.  We all know the tree is a mixed bag, and considering only the issue of attracting birds, it is decidedly a positive. I have extolled the positive aspects of this tree for birds for many years. These efforts started out not so much as promotion of the tree but as an effort to "stand up" for it a bit, and balance the rhetoric.  The knocks against it are: 1) it has potential to take over riparian areas to the exclusion of native, better trees like willow and cottonwood, and 2) it doesn't host very many insects, and, thus, doesn't support a very robust set of nesting birds. The fear of riparian area take-over has been erroneously extended to upland sites (which Crow Valley essentially is since it rarely experiences creek bed flow any more). I have only seen the total takeover and stagnation of riparian areas in a limited number of places in CO, mostly along the Arkansas e of Pueblo. In my mind, tamarisk (aka "salt-cedar") is way worse. The primary insect R-o does have, an aphid (/Capitophorus elaeagni/)/,/ is very attractive to birds. The fruits are very attractive to many birds including warblers, woodpeckers, flycatchers, thrushes, waxwings, mimic thrushes, finches, sparrows and many others including even upland gamebirds and gulls. Wood ducks love them. When discovered, the 1st or 2nd State Record Brown-crested Flycatcher, Fork-tailed Flycatcher and Tropical Kingbird were in or near Russian-olives, no doubt using fruits to sustain their wayward adventures. Hey, Duane, any chance the Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher was doing the same? Thickets are used by certain marquis birds like cardinals and cuckoos as nest sites. Owls like long-ears roost/nest in R-o thickets, and I have even seen a pygmy-owl at low elevation in winter in a R-o thicket. I am not sure what birders should do but I think the approach SeEtta mentions of at least injecting some balance into veg management planning early-on is good. The resource managers, for the most part, have not heard our point of view that the tree could be good, and they ne
Re: [cobirds] FYI: 2020-21 Christmas Bird Counts/Audubon
I have been wondering about this for the past several months. I initiated the John Martin Reservoir CBC, and will comply with the National Audubon Society recommendations. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO On 9/8/2020 3:19 PM, 'The "Nunn Guy"' via Colorado Birds wrote: Hi all I asked the National Audubon Society status of this year's Christmas Bird Count season: * "Audubon is currently investigating whether a COVID-19 safe CBC can be conducted this season, and we should have an official decision soon." Thanks Gary Lefko, Nunn http://www.friendsofthepawneegrassland.org http://www.friendsofthepawneegrassland.org/images/PoweredbyiNaturalist250W.jpg -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com <mailto:cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com>. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/7af13e7d-a28d-4fa1-aea2-ea441629aec1o%40googlegroups.com <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/7af13e7d-a28d-4fa1-aea2-ea441629aec1o%40googlegroups.com?utm_medium=email_source=footer>. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/ff089055-d556-536d-19f6-ea3272950908%40centurytel.net.
Re: [cobirds] Bob Spencer
Bob Spencer was the first birder I ever met. I started birding in a vacuum first in Colorado, then in Chicago where I went to college. Returning home to Colorado, I started birding in Golden, and the nearby Wheat Ridge Greenbelt. I started finding some good birds, and wanted to share them with whomever might have been interested. I joined Denver Field Ornithologists. I found out about Bob through the archaic rare bird telephone tree in 1979. Bob called me about a Palm Warbler in his yard east of Golden, and a friendship was born. We did countless local and more distant trips together. We carpooled together to DFO meetings, picking up Ruth Wheeler and Freda Krolik on our way once a month. We spoke of the hybrid birder he named "Jack Holt". Great times and great memories. I can give Bob no greater tribute than saying he was like a second father to me. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County CO On 5/14/2020 8:23 AM, DAVID A LEATHERMAN wrote: Like everyone who knew Bob Spencer, I was sad to hear of his passing. Anyone who has done or witnessed up close lengthy care-giving by one human for another should have deep admiration for the role of Robert, Jr. over the last many years. The collective laughter and groans Bob was responsible for would drown out the cranes in Grand Island, NE. It think it was the 1990s up at the observation point on Hamilton Reservoir when a bunch of us were quietly scoping the water in hopes of spotting a constantly diving, true to its alternative name, Yellow-billed Diver. No noise except for the shuffling of feet and cold breathing. Then up rises a squeaky sing-song ditty, "Out in the boonies, lookin' for some loonies". Guess who? Those sharing Bob's current existence are probably giving him distance, but I bet they're smiling. I am glad Colorado bird groups honored Bob with various awards before we lost him. Dave Leatherman Fort Collins -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com <mailto:cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com>. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/CY4PR0601MB37631ED7B5230BCC9573D0F3C1BC0%40CY4PR0601MB3763.namprd06.prod.outlook.com <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/CY4PR0601MB37631ED7B5230BCC9573D0F3C1BC0%40CY4PR0601MB3763.namprd06.prod.outlook.com?utm_medium=email_source=footer>. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/609bd178-5c67-633c-9856-05aa012cecd0%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Hooded Warbler in Bent County, CO
Birders, I stayed local today, and did not leave Bent County. In a remote location on the west end of John Martin Reservoir, within John Martin SWA, I observed a male Hooded Warbler. I also heard a Carolina Wren. Of interest, in this habitat characterized by mature willows of two species, mid-sized cottonwood trees, with an understory of sedges, tall grass and forbs, I had a calling Carolina Wren. I had calling Carolina Wrens there in 2019, and think there may be a nesting population. I don't think the Black-bellied Whistling-Ducks in neighboring Otero County were observed today. Stay safe! Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/009403c8-bb27-2615-5a1e-4932281615ed%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Black Phoebe in Bent County
Birders, Like everyone else in Colorado, the U.S., and beyond, I'm struggling with stay-at-home restrictions due to covid-19. I'm confining myself largely to Bent County, CO, sparsely populated enough that it's probably easier to maintain social distance and stay safe than most locations. I have been searching for Black Phoebe in Bent County for over twenty years. I found one at the Purgatoire River near Higbee (Otero County) during the second Breeding Bird Atlas about 10 years ago, within 10 miles of Bent County. Even though I don't think there are any previous Bent County records, this was the most expected addition to my Bent County list. Today, at an undisclosed site within the John Martin Reservoir SWA, I thought I heard one. When I got my binoculars, and camera on a phoebe, it was an Eastern Phoebe, but I soon saw a Black Phoebe with it. The birds were very interested in each other, which made it impossible for me to photograph them as they flew into dense tamarisk trees where I couldn't follow them. After about one and one-half hour, they returned, but chased each other beyond my limits to catch up with them. Habitat is a one-sided canyon with overhanging cliffs and suitable nest sites. In fact, Eastern Phoebes nest here most years. I will keep track of nesting, if it happens, and will be willing to return with others if the Phoebes stick around and attempt nesting (provided the stay-at-home order is lifted). Other birds here today included Say's Phoebe, Canyon Towhee, Rufous-crowned Sparrow, Bewick's Wren, and migrant Chipping and Brewer's Sparrows. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/4c8acd77-b234-3fa2-eed6-08400df49536%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Canyon Wren in Bent County
Birders, This is decidedly not a rare bird posting. Rather, it's a hopeful post on the benefits of staying at home during a statewide stay-at-home order due to the coronavirus. As I was sitting at my computer at my home in Las Animas (Bent County, CO), I heard the unmistakable song of a Canyon Wren, and rushed outside to see it. Those who have been to my home know that I'm not lucky enough to be surrounded by cliffs. I live in a 120 year-old house in a riparian-urban area far from any suitable Canyon Wren habitat. Amazingly, this is the third Canyon Wren I've had here. My first was on September 3, 2000, my second was on August 11, 2016 (both presumed fall migrants). This report leads me to two conclusions: 1) Canyon Wrens are much more migratory than generally thought. 2) Being exiled at home during a mandatory stay-at-home order due to a pandemic doesn't mean that we should shut off ourselves to the possibility of exciting bird sightings. Get out there (but not too far!) Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/48fd99ff-02b2-d491-a38c-0549d38fbd81%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Sandhill Cranes migrating at night
Birders, I stepped outside of my house in Las Animas, Bent County CO at 8:28 tonight, and heard a large flock of Sandhill Cranes migrating northward directly overhead. The moon has not yet risen, and it is very dark. I can't recall ever hearing Sandhill Cranes migrating at night. Sandhill Cranes are common spring and fall migrants in this part of the state, and flocks of thousands stage during the day when the find suitable roosting habitat. I had always thought of Sandhill Cranes as diurnal migrants, waiting until daytime heating creates updrafts to provide the lift they require for soaring. Perhaps the strong southerly winds provide a clue to their nocturnal migration. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/ea2676f4-d53b-4955-7dd4-961f2f6c8bd2%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Withers Canyon, Comanche National Grasslands, Otero County
Birders, Stan Oswald and I did a brief loop hike of Withers Canyon in the Comanche National Grasslands today. We saw very few birds, but, as usual for this habitat of juniper woodlands and rocky canyonlands, the birds were interesting. Descending Withers Canyon, we were in the presence of many American Robins and wintering Mountain Bluebirds. As we reached the canyon floor, we heard, then saw, a Bewick's Wren. Before we reached the Purgatoire River (Picketwire Canyon), we found a male Eastern Bluebird consorting with the more numerous Mountain Bluebirds. There is a sign at the junction with Picketwire Canyon indicating that it is 0.9 miles back to the trailhead. I'd had Black-throated Sparrows here last June, and knew we were in their obligate habitat. We soon found a flock of Black-throated Sparrows in greasewood shrubs very near the abandoned homestead upstream from the trail sign. We had three in sight at the same time, and there were probably more. Nearly as interesting were multiple Sage Thrashers in the same habitat. This appears to be a year for the ages for wintering Sage Thrashers in this part of the state, extending at least as far as the Black Mesa area in Oklahoma. Some other canyon country birds were seen, some missed, before we climbed up steep slopes and cliff breaks as we returned to my car. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/0fa25b74-4c8a-2d0f-0cd7-9ad2545f386a%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] American White Pelicans at John Martin Reservoir
Birders, I encountered a flock of 21 American White Pelicans roosting and flying in to roost at Clayton Point at John Martin Reservoir (Bent County) today. While pelicans linger late into December or even the first week of January here, they are almost never encountered after the first week of January, and those that linger are often sick or injured. Many years, vanguard flocks of healthy birds arrive here the last week of January. None were present yesterday or since mid-December here, so these appear to be migrants. I believe that American White Pelicans are worthy of consideration as the first harbinger of spring, at least in this part of the state. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/f61c530d-48bc-f5d4-9454-0f7d99470ed8%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Long-tailed Duck at John Martin Reservoir
Birders, With ice nearly out at John Martin Reservoir (Bent County), we are entering a shoulder season. Wintering birds are thinning out and spring migrants are yet to arrive. This afternoon, I observed a Long-tailed Duck within three feet of the ice line in the southeast part of the reservoir near the dam. Best viewing is from the south pullout of the dam. I offer this information mostly to help people drawn to Lamar for the Snow Goose Festival. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/cdd1722f-5336-247d-2230-2f8f7c0b02c8%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] John Martin Reservoir, Bent County
Birders, Today, there were two Greater Yellowlegs in the catchment basin below the dam just south of the Hasty Campground. They undoubtedly are wintering farther downstream on private property, but this is the first time in almost two months that they have been seen on public property. Two Long-tailed Ducks were seen together from a point between the two north shore boat ramps just west of the dam. As both appear to be females / immatures, I think there are at least three Long-tailed Ducks on the reservoir. It may take time or luck to find them, since there are nearly quintuple-figures of Common Mergansers currently on the reservoir, extending in loose groups all the way from the dam to the west edge of the reservoir. A previously-reported adult Great Black-backed Gull loafed today with a few Herring Gulls on the ice shelf in the bay just north of Clayton Point, about 4 miles west of the dam on the north side of the reservoir. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/0e27cd10-49e7-c8d5-4a62-322bd058e4c7%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Bent County, January 17, 2020
Birders, I drove about 25 miles south of Las Animas (Bent County) to check out Setchfield SWA this morning. Mountain Bluebirds are abundant here this winter, drawn by the bumper crop of berries of One-seeded Junipers. I hoped to find other wintering species using this resource on the one public-access to this habitat in Bent County. From Hankins Cemetery, just before SH 101 veers to the SE, I headed west, then south to the SWA. I veered right at the red mailbox south of the well-signed entrance to the SWA, and drove south until I could see the ruptured Muddy Creek dam. I walked west to the mesa top on an abandoned switchback road leading to the old quarry on top of the ridge. I found two very cooperative Sage Thrashers on the mesa top, consorting with some Canyon Towhees. Along the way, I encountered a cooperative Ladder-backed Woodpecker. Sage Thrashers are present some winters and absent in others here, and this happens to be a banner year for them due to the abundant juniper berry crop. I went to John Martin Reservoir, and was shocked to see that almost all of the ice was gone. That meant that ducks were dispersed, and not restricted to a few holes in the ice. I did re-find the male Long-tailed Duck reported previously, not far offshore from Point Overlook on the north side of the reservoir. Curiously, I saw almost no gulls at any of my viewing spots on the north side of the reservoir, a stark contrast to hundreds of up to eight species in previous weeks. Respectfully, Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/c231800a-00f9-2dcc-a9fc-5702160cdb8c%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] John Martin Reservoir flash freezes
Birders, Two consecutive nights with near-zero temperatures and calm winds have resulted in John Martin Reservoir (Bent County) going from mostly open to at least 90 percent frozen. While there are still thousands of Snow / Ross Geese and Common Mergansers and hundreds of Bald Eagles and gulls present at the ever-changing holes in the ice, a lot of lingering birds have disappeared, and a trip here may not be as productive as one taken just two days ago. Norma Verhoeff and I did find a female Ladder-backed Woodpecker below the dam today, curiously absent earlier this winter. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/02a8c311-d005-69c9-e6b7-931097ea638f%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] John Martin Reservoir, Bent County, CO
Birders, John Martin Reservoir is huge, and birds seen one day may be impossible to find in the same spot even hours later. I've been able to look at parts of the reservoir on January 7th and 8th. On January 7th, I observed both an adult Lesser Black-backed Gull and adult Mew Gull on the ice shelf on the western edge of the reservoir. Neither were seen today, but an adult California Gull and a first-cycle Glaucous Gull took their places. Two Long-tailed Ducks were seen from the dam, just beyond the ice shelf on the 7th. With literally tens of thousands of Snow and Ross' Geese, mergansers and goldeneyes, it is not easy to find them. Today, near the junctions of the Arkansas and Purgatoire Rivers, I located one female Northern Cardinal, two Harris' Sparrows, and three Lesser Goldfinches. This seems to be an extraordinary year for Lesser Goldfinches wintering in SE Colorado, with birds seen on both the John Martin Reservoir and Rocky Ford CBC's. Today's Lesser Goldfinches were a couple of miles from where they were found on the CBC, indicating that they may actually be far more widespread this winter. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/692097c7-d517-bea7-4875-f121652b94fd%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] John Martin Reservoir CBC results
All, The John Martin Reservoir CBC took place on Monday, December 16th. The unsettled weather throughout the state resulted in some stalwart counters cancelling participation due to heavy snow near the Front Range, and hazardous driving conditions. We ended up with 11 participants, providing adequate coverage of all areas. Our count total was 96 species of birds, about a dozen below our long-term average. We added two species new to the count. I drove through heavy snow to try to find owls and other nocturnal birds before dawn, and can confirm that, at least on December 16th, night birds were not cooperative during adverse weather. Snow let up around dawn, and we actually had pleasant conditions for most of the day. The one inch of fresh snow began to melt by afternoon, and scoping and listening for birds was possible. There was a near absence of mountain birds this year. Some years, some mountain species make it this far east, but the only "mountain" species we got were Pine Siskin, in significant numbers, and a single mountain race White-breasted Nuthatch. We did better with birds from the canyon country to our south, with 13 Canyon Towhees found in multiple habitats and locations by most parties, as well as Scaled Quail, Greater Roadrunner, Canyon Wren and Curve-billed Thrasher. The highlight species of the count was Rufous-crowned Sparrow, new to the count. Dave Leatherman's party found and photographed not one, but two of these unexpected vagrants below the dam at Lake Hasty. There were lots of sparrows of many species, found mostly by Janeal Thompson and Jane Stulp. Their best was a Lark Sparrow, also new to the count, and one of very few CBC records of this species in Colorado. Other highlight species included a photographed Lesser Goldfinch and a photographed Northern Cardinal near the junction of the Purgatoire and Arkansas Rivers, and a Winter Wren along the Arkansas River below the dam at Lake Hasty. The most frustrating part of the count was finding water birds. Although water was mostly open on Lake Hasty and John Martin Reservoir, and there were tens of thousands of Snow / Ross' Geese and thousands of Common Goldeneyes, and all three species of merganser. Some usually-common, expected ducks were found either as singles or not at all. Ditto for gulls, with only Glaucous and Bonaparte's Gulls providing excitement. The three species of loons and hundreds of Eared Grebes seen just one week earlier had all gone awol. Still present were a few American White Pelicans and Double-crested Cormorants. I apologize for the lateness of this report, and for any species I may have inadvertently omitted. We do our compilation at the dinner following the count, and the hard data is no longer in my hands. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/d034ce6b-4862-f568-3aa6-2be96b4b1bde%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Dunlin in Bent County
Birders, I found a Dunlin today in the catchment basin below the dam at John Martin Reservoir. It moved between the two gravel bars in the basin. It loosely associated with 12 Greater Yellowlegs and 11 Killdeer, both unusual in these numbers at this time of year here. The Dunlin cooperated, and was later seen by Stan Oswald. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/db540641-f4ce-9b80-0689-97fa5284a1ae%40centurytel.net.
[cobirds] Lost contact info about seeing Gray Vireo in SE Colorado
Birders, I had multiple responses to posting information about Gray Vireos in Otero and Bent Counties, and others did relocate the Bent County first record I reported to cobirds. One person from Colorado Springs asked if I could help find this species via Facebook Messenger two days ago, as it would be a potential life bird. Unfortunately, work got in the way of a quick response, which I was going to send today. When I checked into facebook messenger, the message was no longer there. As a general rule, I'd much rather be contacted by my email address. To the person who contacted me... Yes, I will help you in finding this potential life bird. No, I do not want to be compensated for my effort. Just let me know how to contact you. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/e7f8719e-f2b4-80cd-ec6b-c26bdf7add8d%40centurytel.net. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
[cobirds] Gray Vireo in Bent County
Birders, I have been looking for Gray Vireos in Bent County for decades. I finally found a male singing on territory today. It was just south of Road J, 2.6 miles west of the south entrance to Setchfield SWA. If approaching from the east on Road J, ascend the switchback (!) to the mesa top, drive east through an unforested area, cross a red cattle guard, and start descending on the road. Look for low cliff bands on both sides of the road, dense juniper growth, and abundant deciduous shrub growth below the junipers. I was unable to photograph the bird due to private property issues. I have tried to sort through the micro-habitat needs of this species in Southeast Colorado, and have come up with some variables. At most sites I've seen them in Las Animas and Otero Counties, they have favored north-facing hillsides, where trees are taller and closer together. Almost every site has had rock outcrops within view of where the birds are seen. Finally, an understory of deciduous shrubs seems to be essential. The juniper forests I've surveyed elsewhere in Bent County miss one, two, or three of these variables. The site where I found the Gray Vireo today had all three. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/fa40f521-19bc-78c2-1adf-6b774860e072%40centurytel.net. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
Re: [cobirds] Tamarack
All, Loss of important non-game bird habitat on Colorado State Wildlife Areas (SWAs) is not restricted to Northeast Colorado. There is an abundance of property with public access in Bent County, and the great bird diversity in Southeast Colorado is well known locally, nationally, and even internationally. Three SWAs in Bent County have seen habitat changes that have greatly diminished the diversity and numbers of some localized non-game birds. 1. John Martin SWA - Wood Thrush Grove. This site was on the Southeast corner of Bent County Roads 16 and JJ, and rivaled Van's Grove as a migration hotspot. I always stopped at Wood Thrush Grove whenever I was in the area during migration. As I understand it, a local power company wanted to mitigate the possible destructive impact of large trees close to power lines, and asked a local CPW worker if they could remove some branches in around 2001. Although this property is owned by the Federal Government as part of John Martin Reservoir property, USACE was not informed of the plan to remove branches. The power company removed ALL trees before USACE ordered work to stop. This site is no longer worth stopping at, or even slowing down while passing by. 2. Karney SWA. This was a private ranch along the Fort Lyon Canal about 3 miles north of US 50, between County Roads 17 and 19. I got tantalizing glimpses of the birding potential of this area from the ditch road while scouting for the John Martin CBC many years ago. I was careful never to trespass. When stopping at the crossing of Gageby Creek and the ditch road, I regularly saw Winter Wrens and Rusty Blackbirds in season, drawn there by the permanent stream that never froze, the stately cottonwoods, and diverse understory, a combination that always leads to good birds. When the property became a SWA a few years ago, I thought it was the best thing ever to happen to Bent County birding. Given access, I found this to be the best wintering landbird site I'd ever seen in SE Colorado. With effort, it was possible to find Hermit Thrushes, Gray Catbirds, Northern Mockingbirds, Brown Thrashers, Curve-billed Thrashers and more in the Russian Olive understory, and, on one CBC, flocks of Field Sparrows and other uncommon birds. Invasion years brought mountain birds like Steller's Jay and Mountain Chickadee. However, this bird refuge changed when CPW started to remove the understory of Russian Olive trees and salt cedar (tamarisk). Currently, there are isolated cottonwoods remaining, with large piles of branches and trees extending south from the headgate for close to 1/4 mile. Readers of cobirds may have read about this site, because of the presence of resident Eastern and Western Screech Owls together, one of the few places in the U.S. where this occurs. Karney SWA is a mere shadow of its former self. 3. Setchfield SWA. About 25 miles south of Las Animas, this is the only public access to juniper and canyon habitat in Bent County. Almost every canyon country bird species can be found here (I would refer the reader to Edition 2 of the Colorado Breeding Bird Atlas, where there is a summary of birds I found atlasing here). Setchfield is the least visited SWA in the state, according to the guidebook to SWAs, and I thought its remoteness and lack of amenities would keep it pristine forever. Below the broken Muddy Creek Dam, there has been an effort to remove salt cedar trees, a good thing in my opinion. For reasons unknown to me, all of the native juniper trees below the dam have been cut and removed, including old growth ones that formerly harbored wintering Long-eared Owls. So far, the uplands have been spared of tree removal. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO Greetings Russian Olive removal, ironically to preserve riparian habitat, is on another part of ranch. There is electric fencing- which keeps the cattle corralled within the riparian. The trampling and eating of understory brush will severely damage habitat for Bell’s Vireo, chats, etc. There’s a reason this portion has nearly all of the Bells at Tamarack Best Steve Mlodinow Longmont Sent from my iPhone -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/92c9c806-8a83-4602-1a65-0d8fdcd55907%40centurytel.net. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
[cobirds] Late migrants in Bent County
Birders, A push of late migrant warblers were present at Van's Grove in Bent County today. Perhaps they were grounded by dense overnight fog, which cleared by mid-morning. Present were a singing male Chestnut-sided Warbler (which appeared to have departed shortly after I saw it), two Tennessee Warblers (one a singing male), and a silent female American Redstart. Also present was a female Rose-breasted Grosbeak. Norma Verhoeff arrived in time to see the latter birds. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/63e2c398-c274-a046-cd03-e97ac13d28c7%40centurytel.net. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
[cobirds] Black-and-White Warbler and Hooded Warbler in Bent County
Birders, I was at Tempel Grove between 12:15 and 2 this afternoon. For the fourth consecutive day, it was jacket/gloves/winter cap weather. I found the continuing female Hooded Warbler again today. Like me, she was stressed by the cold. Today, she was just south of the westernmost tree brush pile west of the bridge and south of the canal, foraging on the ground on straw next to the brush pile. The male Black-and-White Warbler was in tall trees on the extreme west end of the grove, south of the tree piles, and just east of the cleared agricultural land. Like Mark, I observed two Northern Waterthrushes. Unlike Mark, I saw no Yellow-throated Warblers. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/ca26918a-4055-7bee-6e8f-c614a0ca4f6e%40centurytel.net. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
[cobirds] Lesser Nighthawk, Bent County CO
Birders, I flushed a Nighthawk this morning at Van's Grove. I was able to take pictures of the bird once it roosted, and identified it as a male Lesser Nighthawk. I ran into many birders at Lake Hasty this afternoon, and showed the photos to Glenn Walbek, Brandon Percival and others, and they agreed with my ID. We went as a group back to Van's Grove, and, with some effort, finally re-found the bird. We saw it as recently as 3 p.m. Others got diagnostic flight photos, which I'm sure will make it to ebird. The bird likes to perch high, but is very restless, and flies laps around the grove. Good luck to those chasing it. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/af33e8e1-7cb3-aa93-72a4-b31ede810340%40centurytel.net. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
[cobirds] Broad-tailed Hummingbird in Bent County
Birders, For county listers, I have a male Broad-tailed Hummingbird at my feeder in Las Animas today. This is only the second I've had in Bent County in the past 20 plus years. I know a lot of birders are coming this way to search for eastern migrants, and birders are welcome to make a short detour. I would appreciate knowing in advance so I can give directions to people that I don't know. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/7a20003b-4c95-1466-4e73-4f175c0bcdf7%40centurytel.net. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
[cobirds] A couple of uncommon birds, Bent County, CO
Birders, I was able to break away from my hectic schedule and spend a few hours birding in Bent County today. At Clayton Point, about three miles west of the dam on the north side of John Martin Reservoir, I observed three Lesser Black-backed Gulls, two adult and one first cycle. In the tamarisks leading to the point, I had one Field Sparrow with a Lark Sparrow. You can reach this point by entering John Martin SWA from Bent County Road JJ just east of Road 20, and heading SE to the prominent point jutting far out into the Reservoir. At Tempel Grove, I observed a male Black-and-white Warbler in tall cottonwoods just east of the bridge. There were lots of Yellow-rumped Warblers (Myrtle, Audubon's and intergrades) and a few Orange-crowned Warblers here today. Respectfully, Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/59373a7a-d727-ee5f-c458-10da602ee61f%40centurytel.net. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
[cobirds] Ruddy Turnstone in Bent County
Birders, I heard and saw a Ruddy Turnstone on April 21 at Plover Point on the north side of John Martin Reservoir. Plover Point is the second point west of the boundary between JM State Park and JM SWA. It's base is marked by large boulders and a trench. The Turnstone was on the tip of the point just beyond a field fence put up in 2017 for predator control, and does not mark a closure. Two unprotected Piping Plovers were on the mainland adjacent to Gravel Island, the large island just west of Plover Point. Please give them space and approach on foot. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/27c59e85-34d4-5157-824c-17a0adc77790%40centurytel.net. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
[cobirds] John Martin Reservoir CBC results
Birders, The John Martin Reservoir CBC took place on Monday, December 17, 2018. Fifteen observers tallied 108 species, about average for this count. Good weather and a lack of ice allowed some species to linger late (American White Pelican, Double-crested Cormorant, four species of grebe, a Common Loon and high counts of Red-breasted Merganser). Construction below the dam drew Greater Yellowlegs, Killdeer and Wilson's Snipe, all oblivious to heavy machinery nearby. Crack counters found almost all expected species, even ones rare or absent in most of the rest of Colorado in winter, like Bewick's, Canyon and Rock Wrens, Greater Roadrunner and Canyon Towhee. Wintering sparrows put in a good show, with sightings of White-throated Sparrows in three areas, part of a regional invasion of that species. Harris', Swamp and Lincoln's were counted. Nocturnal owling produced only Eastern Screech-Owl this year. Mountain passerines were absent, except for three Pine Siskins, absent on most other regional counts. This year, Yellow-rumped Warblers, Townsend's Solitaires, American Robins and Cedar Waxwings found abundant juniper berries at Ft. Lyon Cemetery and elsewhere in the count circle. Perhaps due to warm weather to the north, ducks (except for Common Merganser, with about 3,000 counted) were either present in tiny numbers compared to average, or absent completely (as in most diving ducks). The highlight of the count was SIX Northern Cardinals together near the confluence of the Arkansas and Purgatoire Rivers. Without feeders, they feast on abundant Russian Olive fruits and drink regularly from a fallen Russian Olive tree partly submerged in the Arkansas Rivers. I hope other count compilers will post their results to cobirds. Sincerely, Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/aa4f76e9-2734-d497-e6b1-080ead6f017b%40centurytel.net. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
[cobirds] CBC registrations
All, I have been told by multiple people that there are problems with registering for Colorado CBCs through the Audubon website. Speaking not just for myself, but for all CBC compilers, we need to know who is planning to attend, so we can deal with the issue of segment coverage, determining teams, and making sure that all areas in our count circles are counted. Please let count compilers know directly if you are planning to attend CBCs. For the John Martin CBC, you can either contact me, or count co-compiler Dotti Russell. Please let me (us) know sooner rather than later, because some of us are doing multiple CBCs on consecutive days, and may be unavailable or unresponsive after counts begin on December 14th. Respectfully, Duane Nelson John Martin Reservoir CBC co-compiler -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/300f9c48-f46c-aa21-9b6e-67920e6f57cb%40centurytel.net. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
[cobirds] Buff-breasted Sandpipers at John Martin Reservoir
Birders, I found two Buff-breasted Sandpipers late this afternoon at John Martin Reservoir (Bent County). They were at Clayton Point on the north side of the reservoir. Clayton Point is reached by turning south from Bent County Road JJ just east of Road 20, and working south, then east to the obvious gravel island, which should be covered with American White Pelicans and Double-crested Cormorants. If you don't find an adult Lesser Black-backed Gull on the island, I would be surprised. The sandpipers were on the mainland opposite the island. The best part of my experience was calling local birders, and finding Norma Verhoeff was able to come out to see the birds (a lifer for her). I would be shocked if her pictures aren't an an order of magnitude better than mine. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/2a99c609-f65d-9215-cbef-7a2804befadf%40centurytel.net. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
Re: [cobirds] White Ibis?
To the best of my knowledge, the Bent County White Ibis has not been seen as of 2:30 today. That doesn't necessarily mean it's not around, as many people have not seen it on their first attempt, and no one knows where it spends time when it's not on the mudflat. Sincerely, Duane Nelson, Las Animas, Bent CO On 9/1/2018 11:26 AM, David Tønnessen wrote: Anyone know if the White Ibis in Bent County has been seen in the last two days? Thanks, David Tonnessen Colorado Springs -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com <mailto:cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com>. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com <mailto:cobirds@googlegroups.com>. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/a55e02c8-1660-4176-af52-f91e90be5bee%40googlegroups.com <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/a55e02c8-1660-4176-af52-f91e90be5bee%40googlegroups.com?utm_medium=email_source=footer>. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout. -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/84687a43-fc8b-0d3f-f521-9f4bc2c2c6c3%40centurytel.net. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
Re: [cobirds] White Ibis yes
All, I saw the adult White Ibis at 4 p.m. today, but it took a little work. Shut out at Bent County Road JJ at Gageby Creek, I tried an option. I drove a little bit west to Van's Grove. I took a two-track road exactly south of the entrance to Van's Grove. I cautiously drove 1/4 mile south, and reached a clearing. Just before the two-track hit a sandy spot, I parked. I was a couple of hundred yards closer to the mud flat where herons, egrets and pelicans roost. Since this location is so far west, silt from the Arkansas River accumulates at high water levels, and walking very far is impossible. But. . ., a lot more of the mud flat is visible than at Road JJ. In a few minutes, the White Ibis flew in, and I was able to see it well and photograph it poorly. A word of caution. Trying to drive too far may result in a costly towing bill. Proceed with prudence. This was my second adult White Ibis in Bent County. The first was in the 1990s, at the exact same spot. That bird was north of Road JJ at the Gageby Marsh, close enough that binoculars weren't necessary. Duane Nelson Las Animas, CO On 8/29/2018 12:17 PM, Gary Faust - Lisa Edwards wrote: All, The Whit Ibis was redound this morning by Jane, Janel, and Norma. It is at Vans Marsh. Lisa Edwards Palmer Lake, CO Sent from my iPhone -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/5ec0a1ef-c864-e09b-af12-daa26bb4296d%40centurytel.net. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
[cobirds] Least Bittern in Bent County
Birders, I flushed a Least Bittern along Bent County Road JJ just east of Van's Grove this morning. It flew off to the south. Gageby Creek is slowly flowing into John Martin Reservoir here, and it should prove to be spectacular for migrating and staging waterbirds and shorebirds in the coming weeks. My best birds today were a couple of Pectoral Sandpipers. A scope will be necessary for shorebirds, which should mostly be south of Road JJ. For those who have missed them, there are a couple of pairs of Least Terns on "Gravel Island" on the north shore of John Martin Reservoir. Gravel Island is west of the cattle guard marking the boundary between the State Park and the State Wildlife Area, and immediately west of "Plover Island, marked by a line of large boulders theoretically preventing sportsmen from attempting to drive across a channel built to protect nesting shorebirds. Sincerely, Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/ffed71ae-3199-65f4-e186-fbc775835bcb%40centurytel.net. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
[cobirds] Bent County, 5/20/18
Birders, I'm going to give an abridged version of what I saw today in Bent County. Thanks to the efforts of many people, a small closure was finally constructed to protect the one Piping Plover nest I know about this year. Without public pressure, I believe this nest would have failed, as fishermen were at the edges of the closure both yesterday and today. Rapidly dropping water levels (due to irrigation releases) have exposed a new island just west of Plover Island on the north shore of John Martin Reservoir in the past few days. The name of the island is Gravel Island, and it is just west of the vegetated island marked by a string of large boulders on the mainland just north of the island. This is west of the cattle guard marking the west end of John Martin State Park. On Gravel Island today, there was a Caspian Tern, Piping Plover and Black-bellied Plover. This island is certain to host island-loving birds for the foreseeable future. At Adobe Creek Reservoir (Blue Lake) there is a tiny islet just offshore on the east side of the lake where Bent County Road 10 heads east and becomes County Line Road. This islet was covered with birds today. Among Ring-billed and Franklin's Gulls, Forster's and Black Terns was a single Least Tern. The dominant shorebird was Sanderling. I did a fair amount of walking, and crossed the peninsula on the east side of the lake about 1/2 mile south of the island. I observed multiple White-rumped Sandpipers and a Stilt Sandpiper. Venturing south, then west, to the dam, I drove as far as I could onto the dredge peninsula jutting north into the lake. At the north point, I observed 4 Red-necked Phalaropes with the more common Wilson's Phalaropes. The cast of birds will change day to day, but these are places well worth checking if you are in the area. Sincerely, Duane Nelson Las Animas, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/dca379ff-33ac-4364-d1e4-7c1875a66b7a%40centurytel.net. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
[cobirds] Piping Plovers at John Martin Reservoir
Birders, I am no longer working with Piping Plovers and Least Terns at John Martin or other Reservoirs in SE Colorado, and have taken on a new job. However, I still like to get out and see what birds are around occasionally. I was able to observe at least two Piping Plovers today at John Martin Reservoir. Since there are no closures set up, and fishermen have unrestricted access anyways, it is hard to justify keeping birders away. The easiest location to see a Piping Plover is on the point between the east and west boat ramps on the north side of the reservoir near the dam. Another plover can be seen on Three-pole Island, the prominent island visible from State Park HQ, accessed by a campground loop on Point Overlook. Other shorebirds are likely on Three-pole Island, as well as terns (including Caspian) and gulls (Bonaparte's and Franklin's). If the weather is bad, Lake Hasty can be good. The swim beach may have shorebirds and waterbirds, and hundreds of foraging swallows. Duane Nelson Las Animas, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/1ca5932f-cb87-628e-a831-344f2a50ceea%40centurytel.net. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
[cobirds] John Martin Reservoir, Bent County
Birders, I made a short visit to John Martin Reservoir today, my first since the CBC on December 14th. I can report that unlike in December, the reservoir is packed with an amazing number and diversity of birds. Viewing conditions have iproved greatly now that the reservoir is about 80 percent frozen, concentrating birds and drawing in many Bald Eagles and gulls. I believe there are more than 100,000 white geese present now, and that will probably mean there are thousands of Ross' Geese present. Common Mergansers, missed on the CBC for the first time in December, now number in the thousands. Common Goldeneyes are now "common". There are hundreds of large gulls now present, and today among them I picked out an adult Lesser Black-backed Gull and first cycle Glaucous Gull. I am sure more species are present. Most surprising was the appearance of three American White Pelicans and two Double-crested Cormorants, missed on the CBC. The best viewpoint is Overlook Point on the north side of the Reservoir. Sincerely, Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/f1982960-abf8-985c-d382-5ab84e351dac%40centurytel.net. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
[cobirds] John Martin Reservoir CBC results
Birders, Fourteen participants in seven parties conducted the John Martin Reservoir CBC on December 14th. This was perhaps the most perplexing count ever: a warm fall and no frozen water resulted in huge amounts of reservoir habitat with no birds to count. Between three parties observing the immense reservoir, two duck species and seven individual ducks were present. Absent were the immense flocks usually present this time of year, presumably still staging far to the north. Ducks, geese, grebes, loons, pelicans and cormorants were missing, along with the usual rare bird hiding in plain sight amid a flock of thousands of birds. Landbirds made up for the missing water birds. Two parties counted Steller's Jays, which are extraordinarily rare this far east. Eight sparrow species were counted, including one very rare LeConte's Sparrow, probably not relocatable. A number of birds not seen on every count added up during our compilation. On a count that seemed destined to set a record for lowest number of species recorded, we finally added up our number of species. We ended up with 102 species for the day, nearly unfathomable given the apparent absence of any birds on the reservoir. In my mind, that is a tribute to the dedication and talents of the extraordinary team of counters that join us for our we have assembled here on the far eastern plains. Duane -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/d3b34898-be92-b98e-5d95-f4098a3f8f2f%40centurytel.net. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
[cobirds] Ovenbird at Tempel Grove, Bent County
Birders, On a day when migration was decidedly "off", Norma Verhoeff and I found an Ovenbird below the Melody Tempel Bench at Tempel Grove, Bent County, CO. This site provides a calm oasis during the opening weekend of the dove season in SE Colorado. I'll second Dave Leatherman's warning that it's high chigger season at Lamar Community College, and only the unwise will enter there without applying lots of DEET. I tried to go to Van's Grove today, and two dove parties are currently camping in the middle of the grove. While Hasty Campground doesn't allow hunting, it is full to capacity with campers, as are all sites at Overlook Campground on the north side of John Martin Reservoir. Water levels there are so high that there are no migrant shorebirds. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/e108c14d-0e69-bf26-9cf8-882058fe905f%40centurytel.net. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
[cobirds] Landbirds in Bent County
Birders, Fall migration starts a little later in SE Colorado than up north, and today was the first day I've been out that had an autumn feel. Van's Grove - Black-and-White Warbler, Orange-crowned Warbler, Great-Crested Flycatcher, Yellow-billed Cuckoo. Clayton Grove (north side of John Martin Reservoir) - Yellow-breasted Chat, Wilson's Warbler, Orchard Oriole, Yellow-billed Cuckoo. Hasty Campground - American Redstart, Baltimore Oriole, Willow Flycatcher, Yellow-billed Cuckoo. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/e85d19a4-6751-b7bd-2140-982f8f0765b6%40centurytel.net. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
[cobirds] Hooded and Magnolia Warblers at Tempel Grove, Bent County
Birders, I found a very cooperative male Hooded Warbler at Tempel Grove late this morning. Predictably, it was low to the ground in the leaf litter near the Melody Tempel Bench. Less predictably, it also posed in the middle of the canal road. The male Magnolia Warbler was less cooperative. Two other birders showed up five minutes after it was found, and it never revealed itself again. The Magnolia Warbler was just west of County Road 35. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/4787fd83-fa4f-9d1e-0f60-52707b9b9501%40centurytel.net. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
[cobirds] Black-throated Sparrow in Bent County
Birders, I made a brief hiking stop in Setchfield SWA in SW Bent County today. I parked on the west side of the broken Muddy Creek Dam, and hiked about 200 vertical feet up to the wooded juniper mesa north and west of my parking spot on Bent County Road J. Where the mesa takes a southward bend, I heard, and saw, a territorial Black-throated Sparrow. This was my first observation of this species in Bent County, and I think it's a county first. This is noteworthy, because I've hiked up this mesa more than 100 times, and never seen it here, or anywhere else in Bent County. Of note, I did most of the atlasing for COBBA II in Bent County, and have covered all corners of the county on public and private land. The bird was singing from the tops of junipers on top of the mesa. Setchfield is the only public land in juniper woodlands in Bent County, and many canyon country birds can be found here, although almost always in low numbers, requiring significant birder effort. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/2c8b5be0-0741-4c14-6bea-4a1b8e466ce8%40centurytel.net. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
[cobirds] Bent County birds 4/12
Hello birders, This morning, I had a singing male Northern Parula at Van's Grove. Later in the day, the first Least Tern of the year flew past a closure on the north side of John Martin Reservoir. I don't know where, or if, it landed. In the late morning, I had two Caspian Terns on the south side of the reservoir, again, there, only temporarily. Finally, over the past week, I encountered four parties trying to find Piping Plover or Least Terns from the edge of Piping Plover / Least Tern closures. It is slightly disconcerting to work, whether in a canoe or on foot, with spotting scopes trained on you. When I am observed, I find it necessary to stop what I'm doing and suspend my work, whether it is trying to use a canoe to find nests on rare calm days, search for nests or confirm nest status from afar, determine nest fates following torrential rain or hail events, amend nest site closures when new nests are found, or potentially translocate nests to avoid them from being lost to flooding. Please, Please, Please, let me know if you want to see Piping Plovers or Least Terns in SE Colorado. It will save time, and protect endangered birds, if you allow me to show you the birds. Oh, and if I see birders entering or lingering at closure boundaries, I have a whole bunch of state and federal law enforcement workers on speed dial, and they won't hesitate to take it from there. Sincerely,, Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/f0b8dcc0-714a-6c02-571f-cc8390f90334%40centurytel.net. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
[cobirds] Baltimore Oriole at Hasty CG, Bent County
Birders, With all the recent storm activity, one might expect tremendous migrant fallout in SE Colorado, but that has not been the case. One exception is Hasty Campground, below the dam at John Martin Reservoir. While other local migrant hotspots host almost no birds, Hasty Campground has most of SE Colorado's migrant Yellow-rumped Warblers, along with a few other species. After sorting through hundreds of Yellow-rumps, I finally found a couple of Lazuli Buntings, and a brilliant male Baltimore Oriole this afternoon. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/95f66658-ba17-4249-a7b9-41f1381fac87%40centurytel.net. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
[cobirds] Worm-eating Warbler at Tempel Grove (Bent County) update
Birders, The Worm-eating Warbler was present at the Melody Tempel Memorial Bench at Tempel Grove late this morning. If you're lucky, it may be the first bird you see, but it can also be impossible to relocate. It is often close to an adult and an immature White-throated Sparrow. A word of warning about the weather: The National Weather Service predicts 6 - 12 inches of snow between this evening and early Sunday morning, when the storm finally departs. I have doubts that the early Piping Plover nest at John Martin Reservoir can survive a storm of this magnitude. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/26d0823e-3d31-1ece-8fef-0ee0494262ce%40centurytel.net. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
[cobirds] Worm-eating Warbler, Tempel Grove, Bent County
Hello birders, Janeal Thompson and I visited Tempel Grove this afternoon. Our best bird was a Worm-eating Warbler. We found it by walking east from the parking area along the south side of the canal until we reached two utility poles with wires spanning the canal to two similar poles on the north side of the canal. The warbler was in the first juniper tree east of the poles on the north side of the canal. In this same exact location, we also observed two White-throated Sparrows. We looked for Dave Leatherman's Harris' Sparrows south of the parking area, but dipped on them. However, we had a third White-throated Sparrow among the big flock of White-crowned Sparrows. Finally, we saw a Gray Catbird in the undergrowth south of the memorial benches. Dave's ears did not let him down. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent Co., CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/0580b2f4-3ce7-8347-a894-df1646309077%40centurytel.net. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
[cobirds] Bent County birds
Hello birders, I've stayed put in Bent County so far this year, and all sightings are within the boundaries of the John Martin Reservoir CBC area. Deep snow in late December thinned out lingering land birds, and John Martin Reservoir nearly froze following -19 temperatures on December 18th (it is currently open for 5 miles west of the dam, but that could change with the predicted cold snap, which hits tomorrow afternoon). I have not been able to find rare loons or grebes, but most other birds remain in the area. Here are some highlights: Snow / Ross' Geese are back, but in much smaller numbers. I don't think the number currently exceeds 20,000. American White Pelican (2) and Double-crested Cormorant (2) remain, almost always seen on the tiny island west of the dam on the south side of the reservoir. Rare Gulls. Observed one adult Great-black-backed and one sub adult Lesser Black-backed Gull from the dam today. For the first time in decades, there is not a waterfowl closure, and hunters were in a formerly-closed area on the south shore. Every time they shot, birds scattered. Hasty Campground. Observed one adult male Red-bellied Woodpecker and one White-breasted (Carolina) Nuthatch today in north side of grove. Eastern Bluebird. 20 counted in one flock near junction of Purgatoire and Arkansas Rivers today (email me for complex directions). None at traditional sites such as Hasty Campground. Swamp Sparrow. I could find only one following the big snowstorm of December 17th, south of Road JJ via Road 17.25. Happy New Year! Duane Nelson, Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/538ff4ae-8649-8091-e17f-883f0fd24518%40centurytel.net. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
[cobirds] Purple Sandpiper viewing ethics
Birders, I hate to bring this up, but I know I'm not the only person thinking this. Every day, people seem to be edging closer and closer to the Purple Sandpiper at Lake Dillon. I think the welfare of this bird should come before the "money shot" photograph. We should all feel fortunate just to witness this special visitor. We, as birders, are under the scrutiny of a much larger audience, and I want us to surpass expectations for our exemplary behavior. I beg that people stand back, let the bird forage with a little space, and remain here as long as it chooses. If it's flushed, where else can it go? I know a little about allowing people to observe rare birds from an appropriate distance and for an appropriate duration. I don't know what I can do about the Purple Sandpiper, but I'm thinking I'd better consider the implications of reporting mega rarities in my neck of the woods. Respectfully, Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/5fcbad15-4a15-de2a-07c3-1addf9afb9a2%40centurytel.net. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
[cobirds] John Martin Reservoir CBC results
Birders, The John Martin Reservoir CBC was held today. A total of 14 people took part. Our final total was 117 species, a new record for the count. Over a quarter of a million birds were counted, likely a new record for individual birds tallied for a Colorado CBC. I'm going to keep this posting short, and my numbers are estimates of the final tallies in some cases, already in the hands of our co-compiler. Any errors in estimates are mine. The highlight species was an Ovenbird found and photographed at Ft. Lyon State Wildlife Easement by Kathy Mihm-Dunning. I underestimated the number of Snow Geese present in a previous post. Today's crack reservoir team tallied 170,000 Snow Geese, with only 2200 Ross' Geese. We've noticed that Snow Geese numbers are exploding, but not Ross'. Duck numbers were low, with the exception of Common Mergansers. We found only small numbers of most expected duck species, as in only three Northern Pintail, and our most glaring miss of the day, American Wigeon. Gulls and grebes compensated, with eight species of gull and four species of grebes. While good numbers of Double-crested Cormorants remain, the last American White Pelican was observed on 12/16. Today was a loon day, with four Common's (new to count day but not count week) and one Pacific Loon. Two parties found Northern Cardinals, and Swamp and Lincoln's Sparrows appeared in multiple numbers. Blackbirds astounded. Observers counted 1475 Great-tailed Grackles (a Colorado CBC record), and 150 Common Grackles. We estimated 80,000 Red-winged Blackbirds. I'd like to personally thank everyone that made time and contributed so much. This was a total team effort. Please forgive me for possibly sounding tired. I am. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/eaf78acb-8e31-ec88-a063-093aaf8db59a%40centurytel.net. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
[cobirds] Long-tailed Duck in Bent County
Birders, There is a female Long-tailed Duck on Lake Hasty below John Martin Dam this afternoon. This bird shouldn't be that hard to find, except that it spends most of it's time underwater, so it might take a little time. It was in the south part of the lake south of the pole that doesn't attract nesting Ospreys. Also present on Lake Hasty are double-digit American White Pelicans and a nice assortment of ducks. At least five Greater Yellowlegs are hanging around the stilling basin below the dam with Killdeer. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/4c1d61ca-9106-2c3c-bb97-1447562aeda5%40centurytel.net. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
[cobirds] Little Gull at Adobe Creek Reservoir, Bent and Kiowa Counties
Birders, I just found a juvenile Little Gull at Adobe Creek Reservoir (Blue Lake) at 10 a.m. this morning. It was offshore in the north part of the lake, best viewed from the two casual boat ramps just north of the water gauging structure (the metal culvert with a tiny solar panel on top). This is just west of the official boat ramp. Drive north on Bent County Road 10 to where it turns abruptly to the east, and continue north on the two track to the point. Look to the north and west from the point. County listers might be able to count this bird in both counties, as it moves around a lot. There are multiple juvenile Sabine's Gulls in the same part of the lake today. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/435b0c83-5e43-f53f-8672-49b286af8303%40centurytel.net. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
[cobirds] Williamson's Sapsucker in Bent County
Hello birders, At the tail end of our /National Public Lands Day/ work project to create nesting habitat for Piping Plovers and Least Terns in 2017, part of the group met at the shelter house at the entry to Corps HQ below the dam. This is south of the Hasty Bridge on the west side of the road. In the scattered trees, I located a male Williamson's Sapsucker, which seemed to prefer the two or three scattered juniper trees just east of the shelter house, but also spent time in the small elm trees present. Williamson's Sapsuckers are casual fall migrants on the eastern plains of Colorado, and I think this is a Bent County first. This is outside of the locked fence surrounding the main buildings, and birder access would be OK, even on weekends. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/5d9e1e33-9c18-7e84-9dd5-5b1bbb38d993%40centurytel.net. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
[cobirds] Ruby-throated Hummingbird - NO
Birders, I wanted the cooperative male Ruby-throated Hummingbird to stick around for the weekend crowd, but it looks like he's gone. I didn't see him yesterday evening, and a female / immature Black-chinned Hummingbird visited my feeder in peace this morning. I'll post again if he returns. As a friendly reminder to people wanting to help maintain habitat for Piping Plovers and Least Terns, the USACE will be conducting a project next Saturday morning, as part of /National Public Lands Day. /We'll meet at the building at the entrance to Corps HQ at 8 a.m. on Saturday, September 24th. This is just south of the Arkansas River, just past the Hasty Bridge. Our project should be complete by noon. Let me know if you need more details. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County, CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/10ac60ce-17e6-a107-b031-830db014be95%40centurytel.net. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
[cobirds] Ruby-throated Hummingbird 9/16 YES
Birders, The adult male Ruby-throated Hummingbird that has been visiting my feeder in Las Animas, Bent County CO just made an appearance. Birders are welcome to look, provided they notify me in advance. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/c132968a-b87a-a68d-95f5-d373cad5ca30%40centurytel.net. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
[cobirds] Ruby-throated Hummingbird in Bent County update
Birders, The adult male Ruby-throated Hummingbird is present again this morning at my feeder in Las Animas (Bent County). Birders are welcome, but need to contact me before visiting. Duane Nelson Las Animas, Bent County CO -- You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Colorado Birds" group. To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to cobirds+unsubscr...@googlegroups.com. To post to this group, send email to cobirds@googlegroups.com. To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/cobirds/36471bf2-f0d1-6d9c-9a41-1575e5ec90c1%40centurytel.net. For more options, visit https://groups.google.com/d/optout.
