CONTINENTAL SURVEY

The Spring Migration

March lwMay 31, 1981

Abbreviations frequently used in Regional Reports ad.: adult, Am.: American, c.: central, C: Celsius, CBC: Refuge, Res.: Reservoir, not Reservation, R.: River, S.P.: Christmas Bird Count, Cr.: Creek, Corn. Common, Co.: State Park, sp.: species,spp.: speciesplural, ssp.:subspecies, County, Cos.: Counties, et al.: and others, E.: Eastern (bird Twp.: Township, W.: Western (bird name}, W.M.A.: Wildlife name),Eur.: European,Eurasian, F: Fahrenheit,fide: report- Management Area, v.o.: various observers,N,S,W,E,: direc- ed by, F.&W.S.: Fish& Wildlife Service,Ft.: Fort, imm.: im- tion of motion, n., s., w., e.: direction of location, >: more mature, 1.: Island, Is.: Islands, Isles, Jct.: Junction, juv.: than, <: fewer than, _+: approximately,or estimatednumber, juvenile, L.: Lake, m.ob.: many observers,Mr.: Mountain, o': male, 9: female, e•: imm. or female, *: specimen,ph.: Mts.: Mountains, N.F.: National Forest, N.M.: National photographed, '[': documented, ft: feet, mi: miles, m: meters, Monument, N.P.: National Park, N.W.R.: Nat'l Wildlife kin: kilometers, date with a + (e.g., Mar. 4+): recorded Refuge, N.: Northern (bird name), Par.: Parish, Pen.: Penin- beyond that date. Editors may also abbreviate often-cited sula, P.P.: Provincial Park, Pt.: Point, not Port, Ref.: locations or organizations.

NORTHEASTERN MARITIME LOONS, GREBES--Approximately 125 North Americanhigh (WRP et aLL Bob Con- REGION migrantCorn. Loonswere noted in CapeCod way's careful observations from several Bay Apr. 18 (fide RPE) while the following coastal Rhode Island localities estimated no /Peter D. Vickery day 99 Corn. Loons and 105 Red-throated fewer than 53,000+ Double-crestedCormor- Loons were counted passingPt. Judith, R.I. ants migrating N Apr. 25 (RAC). (RLF, fide DLE). A single Arctic Loon was The spring of 1981 was generally warmer unique this seasonat Rye, N.H., Apr. 19 HERONS--Extralimital heron reports in- than averagewith each of the season'sthree (WWF et al.). The only sizableflock of Red- cluded singlead. Little Bluesat West Pubni- months registering above average tempera- neckedGrebes reported included a meagre90 co, N.S., Apr. 16-27 and Brier 1., N.S., Apr. atures. Interestingly, there was no apparent individualsoff Manomet, Mass., Apr. 14 30-May I (v.o., fide FS). In the same pro- trend of migrants arriving earlier than usual. (fide RPE). vince, a Great Egret was unseasonablyearly Aside from a few early records, most birds kept to their schedules.The unabated mild TUBENOSES, COR- weather in April and May created few heavy MORANTS-Northern migratory pulses; rather, birds filtered north Fulmars on George's in continual although less readily discernible Banks were less nu- numbers. Observers regionwide agreed that merous than in the past May 25 produced the largestsingle Hight. Ad- few years. This may ditionally, noticeablenumbers were observed possibly indicate a on Cape Cod on April 18 and 30 and Rhode retreat from the large Island reporters recordeda sizable movement numbers observed the May 14th. previous summers (fide The migration experienceda definite west- RGBB). Conversely, a em flavor this spring with an unprecedented Cory's Shearwater off flight of Pectoral Sandpipers, three Scissor- Muskeget 1., Mass., tailed Flycatchers,a Say's Phoebe, a Black- May 31 was startlingly throated Gray Warbler and a Western Mead- early and may have owlark. Conversely, southern overshoots presagedyet another im- were disappointingly few. pressivesummer for this The Common Cuckoo on Martha's Vine- species(RSH}. yard was the seasoh'smost unexpectedbird. A census in Boston No doubt the most significant event of the harbor counted a record spring surrounded the astonishing numbers 1445 Great Cormorants of Pectoral Sandpipers which frequented Mar. 8 and established, Massachusetts. presumably, a new

Volume 35, Number 5 801 as far n as Sydney Mar 19-26 while a second Newburyport May 15 (RSH). SingleCurlew noted on Nantucket I., Mass., at Greenwich bird occurred at Robert I., Yarmouth Co., Sandpipers were recorded in Squantum, Pt., Conn., and elsewherein s. Connecticut N S , May 9 (v.o., fide FS). Seven Glossy Mass., May 16-23 (fide RPE) and at Wood- (fide TB). Thayer's Gulls shouldcontinue to Ibises at 3 Nova Scotia localities was an point, N.B., May 25 (fide ELM) whereat the be carefullyreported. This springa Thayer's above-averagespring total (fide FS). latter locality some 10,000-20,000 Gull in first basicplumage was photographed Semipalmated Sandpipers constituted an off the Massachusetts coast at the n. end of WATERFOWL--A Whistling Swan was astonishingspring concentration. A singleW. StellwagenBank Apr. 25 (WRP et al.). New unusual at Fitchburg, Mass., Mar. 26 (fide Sandpiperwas out of seasonat Monomoy England Black-headed Gull numbers were RPE) while a Greater White-fronted Goose May 25 (BN) while a Bar-tailedGodwit pro- above average with at least 17 individuals re- was more notable at Plum I., May 2-7 (fide vided a rare spring occurrencein Revere, ported. Likewise Little Gulls were observed RPE) Snow Geese experienced an excellent Mass., Apr. 12 (fide RPE). SingleHudsonian in good numberswith 15+ reports. Single migration throughout New England with Godwits were unusualat Milford Pt., Conn., ad. Franklin's Gulls were seen at Brier I, nearly all birds noted passingN Mar. 29. On May 16-18 (SS) and Jerusalem,R.I., May 27 N.S., May 13-14 (fide RGBB) and 8 mi out of that date 1880 Snow Geese were seen over (fide DLE). Spring Ruffs in New England Boston harbor May 25 (WRP et al.). The on- Storrs, Conn. (SS), 660 and 157 Snowspass- numberedseven or eight individualswith five ly Ivory Gulls reported this spring, 80 of ed over Sudburyand Concord, Mass., respec- or six of those reportedfrom Newburyport them, were seenduring a NE gale at L'Anse- tively (RAF et al.) and 1200+ were counted and Plum I. aux-Meadows,Nfld., Mar. 6 (BMacT). The over various Maine localities (v.o., fide Region's third and Massachusetts' second MKL) In Nova Scotia, Gadwall continued its Ross' Gull was briefly presentin Newbury- increase as at least seven individuals were re- No doubt the most significant avian port Apr. 20 (fide RPE). This Ross' Gull, an ported (fide CRKA). Three "Common" event this spring was the unprecedented adult associatingwith Bonaparte'sGulls, was Green-winged Teal occurred at as many Nova flight of PectoralSandpipers in e. Massa- presumablya spring migrant that wintered Scotia localities while in that province a c• chusetts.An early individualreported in- somewhere farther s. A Forster's Tern was Ear Wigeon was observedat Debert May 1-8 land at Northampton Mar. 16-17 (fide notable at Newburyport May 16 (fide RPE) (ftde CRKA). Another Eur. Wigeon was SK) was closelyfollowed by 15 at Plum I., but singleSandwich Terns were more surpris- found at Plum I., May 23 (fide RPE). Four Mar. 30-31. Numbers increased to 240 at ing at MuskegetI., Mass., May 27 (RSH) and Canvasbacks were rare spring migrants in Newburyport Apr. 11 when on the same Plymouth Beach, Mass., May 30 (fide RPE) Nova Scotia at Sydney Mar. 4-15 (fide date nine were as far e. as Cape Jouri- Razorbillsflying pastNantucket numbered CRKA). Spring King Eiders were about aver- main, N.B. (SIT). By Apr. 20 more than 330 individuals Mar. 8 and 177 Mar. 15 (fide age, howeverfour off Pt. Judith, R.I., Apr. 1000 Pectoral Sandpiperswere carefully RPE). A Black Guillemot was rare off Bran- 19 was a surprise (fide DLE). Some 2000+ counted at Newburyport (RSH, RRV); ford, Conn., Mar. 24 (NSP). Thirty Black Red-breastedMergansers were observed pass- 800 were still presentApr. 30 (RSH) but Guillemots off Nantucket I., Mar. 14 was a ing MuskegetI., Mass., May 6-12 (RSH). numbers dropped off quickly and only surprisinglylarge number s. of Cape Cod 100 remained at Newburyport May 3 (fide RPE). VULTURES THROUGH GALLINULES (RSH). Other sizable counts included --Turkey Vultures continuedtheir steadyex- 200+ in Marshfield Apr. 12, 68 in Con- CUCKOOS THROUGH PICIDS-- pansion throughout New England. In Maine, cord Apr. 27, 46 in BostonApr. 5 (v.o., Townsend noted that there were "too many fide RAF) and 45 at Card's Pond, R.I., reports... to list individually." May 2 (RAC). Interestingly,this flight did The rarest bird this spring was surely A Swallow-tailed Kite seenover King Tom not land on Cape Cod where average the Common Cuckoo (Cuculuscanorus) Pond, R.I., May 27 (DT, fide DLE) provided numberswere observed (BN). The previ- found, netted, banded, carefully mea- only a secondstate record but the eighth Re- ous Massachusettshigh count was of 85 sured and photographedin hand at West gional occurrencein the last 3 years. Gyrfal- Pectoralsat NewburyportApr. 20, 1977. Chop, Martha's Vineyard, Mass., May cons were observed in Maine (one), Nova 3-4 (TLL-E, RRV et al.). Detailed exami- Pectoral Sandpipers--Spring1981 Scotia (three), and at Terra Nova N.P., Nfld. nation indicated that the bird was most (two) MacTavish noted an average spring Locality No. Date probably a female still retaining several juv. secondarycoverts. This provideda flight of 17-20+ individuals with just one Northampton, MA I Mar. 16 first Regional occurrenceand the first re- white-phasebird of probable Greenland ori- Squantum,MA 30 Apr. 4 cord for e. North America, previousre- gin cf eight in 1980(BMacT). Some 25 Pere- Greater Boston 46 Apr. 5 cords being limited to w. Alaska. grine Falcons constituted a more or less aver- Orono, ME 23 Apr. 7 age spring flight. Merlins were quite nu- Kennebunk,ME 10 Apr. 9 merous this spring in e. Massachusetts, Trenton, ME 10 Apr. 9 A Great Gray Owl was uniquein Cooper, Petersen counted ten plus birds in 2 days of Newburyport,MA 180 Apr. 10 Me., Mar. 19 (fide MKL). Black-backed hawk-watching(WRP). Newburyport, MA 240 Apr. 11 Three-toed Woodpeckers moved S of their Two c• Yellow Rails were located on terri- Wells, ME 15 Apr. 11 breedinglimits early this spring. In w. Massa- tory in their traditional haunts on the Tan- Cape Jourimain, N.B. 9 Apr. 11 chusetts,single birds were identified in Bald- tramar Marsh near Sackville, N.B. (SIT et Marshfield,MA 200+ Apr. 12 winsvilleMar. 11 and E. Quabbin Mar. 12 al ) while acrossthe border in Nova Scotia an Concord, MA 58 Apr. 12 (v.o., fide SK). In Maine, a Black-backed ad Purple Gallinule, found in Dartmouth Newburyport,MA 600 Apr. 18 Three-toedWoodpecker was seenon Cape May 27, was joined by an imm. bird of the Newburyport,MA 1000+ Apr. 20 Elizabeth and extensiveworkings at numer- same speciesMay 29 (fide FS). Rowley, MA 30 Apr. 23 ous localities near Augusta indicated a con- Martha's Vineyard 25 Apr. 25 siderablemovement into the area (PDV) SHOREBIRDS--A single Am. Golden Squantum,MA 35 Apr. 27 Southwardextensions of the species'breed- Plover was noteworthy and early at Law- Concord, MA 68 Apr. 27 ing range shouldnot be ignored.Single N rencetown,N.S., Mar. 29-Apr. 1 (fide ELM). Newburyport,MA 800 Apr. 30 Three-toed Woodpeckersin Maine occurred In the same province two Whimbrels fur- Card's Pond, RI 45 May 2 in Dixmont May 8 (fide MKL) andE. Harps- rushedan unusualspring occurrence, as were Newburyport, MA 100 May 3 wellMay 15(PK). A Red-headedWoodpeck- sevenon MuskegetI., Mass. (RSH). A count er was unusual on Seal I., N.S., May 16-18 of 150 Willets in Jerusalem,R.I., May 11 was (fide FS). probably the largestspring count ever record- GULLS, TERNS, ALCIDS--A Great ed in New England (fide DLE). Black-backed• X Herring Gull hybrid seen FLYCATCHERS THROUGH WAX- In Massachusetts,single White-rumped and photographed on Muskeget I., Mass., WINGS--Three spring Scissor-tailed Fly- Sandpipers were unusual inland at Hadley May 21 only darkens the already murky wa- catchers was more than has been seen in re- May 10 and Northampton May 12-13 (v.o., ters of the Larid complex (RSH). Lesser cent years. In Massachusetts, individuals ftde SK), while 30+ White-rumpeds fur- Black-backed Gulls diminished considerably were found in MarshfieldApr. 26-May 2 and rushed an above-averagespring count at from their early winter totals; singleswere on Nantucket I., May 22-24 (fide RPE). A

802 AmericanBirds, September 1981 single adult occurred in Cushing, Me., May again this spring severalmales were found on RPE). In n. Newfoundland, MacTavish 15 (fide JCr). A Say's Phoebe photographed territory in s. Connecticut (fide TB). in w. noted an average-to-poor spring redpoll on Seal i., N.S., May 20 (BMacT, RRV)pro- Massachusetts, a Connecticut Warbler was flight but observed that close to 50% of the vided a first Regional spring occurrencefor unexpectedin Lanesboro May i I and two Or- birds studied were Hoaries, which, he feels, this rare, fall vagrant. In Rhode island, unde- ange-crowned Warblers were unusual at Aga- may be typical for that area (BMacT). Two tailed and not quite satisfactory reports of warn May 16 (fide SK). A Hooded Warbler very late Corn. Redpolls were carefully Vermilion Flycatchersat Beavertail Pt., Apr. was notably unusual in Lower West Pubnico, studied on Monhegan I., Me., May 25 (JP). 29 (DL,fide DLE) and E. ProvidenceMay 14 N.S. (fide PRD). An "Oregon" Junco was in Truro, N.S., (CW) might possibly have been correct. An The heaviest warbler flight of the spring Apr. 23 (fide PRD). A cy Clay-colored Spar- E. Wood Pewee was strikingly early on Brier occurred May 24-25. Heil counted 25 + N. row was briefly territorial in New Canaan, I., N.S., Mar. 30 (WL, fide JSC). Waterthrushes and 40+ Blackpolls on Mus- Conn., May 10o12 (fide TB) while in A notably tame Black-billed Magpie in Ply- keget I., Mass., May 24 (RSH). A day later in Massachusetts a Clay-colored Sparrow was mouth, N.H., Apr. 20-24 (fide DJA) and an- Provincetown, Nikula estimated 100 Cana- banded in Rockport May 7 and another was other in w. Massachusettswere thought to be das, 50+ Ovenbirds and 60 Am. Redstarts. in song in Mt. Auburn Cemetery, Cambridge escapes from a Massachusettsgame farm The same day Seal i., N.S. birders recorded May 17 (fide RPE). (RAF). A Wheatear in N. Branford, Conn., 55 Black-and-whites, 75 Magnolias, 90 N. Feb. 15 (NSP) provided another piece of sug- Parulas, 200 Blackpolls, 40 Canadas, 125 gestiveevidence that the speciesmay be win- Corn. Yellowthroats and 110 Gray Catbirds ADDENDA--An ani sp. present for two tering in North America. Spring Bohemian (BMacT, RRV). Sadly, no comparative data daysin December1980, in Debert, N.S. (fide Waxwingsin Maine numbered 180+ individ- were available from banding stations. PRD) furnished a first Regional occurrence. uals (fide MKL). A W. Tanager in Westhampton, Mass., Sept. ICTERIDS THROUGH FRINGILLIDS-- 20, 1980was previouslyunreported (fide SK). VIREOS, WARBLERS--Southern vireos A Western Meadowlark in Squantum, Mass., and warblers n. of their breeding rangeswere Apr. 25-27 furnishedthe first Regionaloccur- SUB-REGIONAL EDITORS, Contribu- fewer than usual. A White-eyed Vireo was in rence in recent years. Single Yellow-headed tors, Observers and other abbreviations-- songin Brunswick, Me., May 26 (JP). A Pro- Blackbirds were reported from Deerfield, Dennis J. Abbott, Charles R.K. Allen, Bon- thonotary Warbler was startlingly early in Mass., Mar. 28, Portsmouth, R.I., Apr. 30 nie Bochan, Roger G.B. Brown, Tom Burke, Dennis, Mass., Mar. 31-Apr. I (fide BN). and Nova Scotia (two). Twenty-two Orchard Roger Burrows, Joe Cadbury, John S. Additional single Prothonotaries were noted Oriole reports from e. Massachusetts Cohrs, Shirley Cohrs, Robert A. Conway, in Rhode Island and Connecticut. A cy Black- reflected the increase the species has ex- Jean Creighton, Paul Desjardins, Phyllis R. throated Gray Warbler in New Haven, perienced in the past 2 years (fide RPE). Dobson, David L. Emerson, Ruth P. Emery, Conn., Apr. 30 (NSP) furnished a second Eight Regional SummerTanagers were fewer Norm Famous, Richard L. Ferren, Davis W. state record and seemed related to a number than average as were five Blue Grosbeaks, the Finch, William W. Fogelman, Richard A. of w. vagrants occurring in s. New England. latter all in Massachusetts. The previously Forster, James Gibson, Richard S. Heil, Seth Cerulean Warblers were found in Rhode Is- reported Black-headedGrosbeak remained in Kellogg, Paul Kleinholz, Wickerson Lent, land (two) and Massachusetts (three plus) Walpole, Mass., to Mar. 20 (fide RPE) and Trevor L. Lloyd-Evans, Michael K. Lucey, where breeding remains a distinct but as yet the Bath, Me., Black-beaded Grosbeak was Deborah Lutman, Bruce MacTavish, Eric L. unconfirmed possibility. Two April Yellow- present through mid-April (JCr). House Fin- Mills, Blair Nikula, Wayne R. Petersen, Jan throated Warblers in Rhode Island and one in ches seemed to have fully established Pierson, Noble S. Proctor, Stephen Sibley, Connecticut were fewer than usual. A o' Ken- themselves in Nova Scotia with a total of 7-10 Francis Spaulding, Don Tiller, Suart I. tucky Warbler was found as far n. as Mere- pairs in 7 localities. Breeding is, no doubt, Tingley, William C. Townsend, Richard R. dith Center, N.H., May 29 (WWF et al.), not far off (fide PRD). There was a moderate Veit, Peter D. Vickery, Charles Wood, v.o. four occurred in w. Massachusetts(fide SK), early spring Corn. Redpoll flight. A Hoary various observers.--PETER D. VICKERY, three were noted in e. Massachusetts and was found among Commons at Plum I. (fide Box 127, Richmond, Me. 04357.

QUEBEC REGION May 23 (MG) and up to seven at New-Rich- Pierre and Lanzon Apr. 21-May 3 (PC, JH, / Normand David and mond Apr. 29-May 10 (PF et al.). Eleven m.ob.), and one at Rlvlere-Ouelle May 10 Brant showed up at BergeronnesMar. 21 (JH et al.), the first ever outside the Quebec Michel Gossdin (AB), an unprecedenteddate; the specieswas City area. A pair of Eur. Wigcons near Ber- As usual, it is difficult to accurately char- also noted at Magog May 30 (PBo). Spring thierville Apr. 10013(GP, DP) and a male ex- acterize the weather of a vast region over a White-fronted Geese had never been so hibiting tracesof hybridismat Lauzon Apr. three month period. However, March was numerous: records were two adults at Saint- 18-21 (LF, JH) showed again that discovery dry and mild, as was last winter, and this re- Joseph de Beauce Apr. 4-5 (LM), an im- of breedingevidence on this continentis long sulted in little flooding on the upper St. Law- matureat Ile d'Orle'ansApr. 21 (PBa et al.), overdue; additional single males were noted renee and scarcelyany ice on the Gulf and the and single adults at Estuary. Portneuf Apr. 12 (CM), Beauport Apr. 26 (SM), GREBES THROUGH WATERFOWL-- Lanzon Apr. 300May 6 Two Horned Grebes at Pointe-au-Pere May (ND, JH), L. Saint- 12 (CR) representeda first local springoccur- Paul, Labelle Co., May rence while six Gannets off Sainte-Anne des 6 (RLD) and Plaisance Monts Mar. 9 (WP) set a record early arrival. May 9 (RSc et al.). In Matagami a Double-crested Cormorant Nine Snow Geese at May 13 (fide MLe) was certainly a first for Chandler Apr. 7 and the area. Southern herons were few but var- one at Bonaventure the ied: a Little Blue Heron at Thurso May 15 next day (RB, PP) were (GS, PC), a Great Egret on Lamarcbe I., near far e. of their usual stag- Berthierville May 31 (GP, DP), a Snowy ing grounds. Close ex- Egret at Matagami May I 1 (fide MLe) and a amination of grazing Louisiana Heron in Hudson Apr. 25-May 1 Snow Geese yielded (WG, m.ob.). Glossy Ibises, however, were many Ross' Geese: one widely distributed with a bird at Cacouna at Saint-Francois, Ile Apr. 29-May 10 (SL, PD) and Trois-Pistoles d'Orle'ans,Apr. 12(JH May 18 (fide GG), another at Ile du Moine et al.), two at Saint-

Volume 35, Number 5 803 at Katevale Apr. I (PBo, JR), Quebec City OWLS THROUGH WAXWINGS-- CORRIGENDA--The following record of Apr. 20 (CV), lie d'Orle•nsApr. 20-May9 Snowy Owls were noted in large numbers Lesser Black-backed Gull was inadvertently (PLe et al.), Saint-FulgenceMay 10 (LV), Ca- everywhere. A Hawk Owl at Nouvelle Mar. omitted from/lB 35:161: two at Cote Sainte- couna May 10 (FG) and lie des SoeursMay 12, was feeding on lunch leftovers(PF) while Catherine Dec. 7 (BB et al.). In/lB 30:816, 23 (YA). Twenty-five Black Scotersat Carle- another was on lie aux Oies May 2 (DP). A the Golden-winged Warbler reported from ton Mar. 20 (LB) were exceptionally early. Belted Kingfisher at Smnte-Therese de Bromont was actually from Mansonville, East of QuebecCity, Ruddy Ducks were un- Gasp•Mar. 2 (PP) probablyprovided a rec- Brome Co., while the Harris' Sparrow men- usually numerous,and all were first local oc- ord early arrival although the speciescould tioned in/lB 30:38 was from Wakefield not currences: two males and one female in Ar- winter locally; in the samearea, an E. Phoebe Lakefield. vidaMay 21 + (MB),a pairat MetisMay 24 at Perc•Apr. 15 (RB) waswell outside its (GLa, LR), two males at Barachois May 30 normal range. In Aylmer, a Rough-winged and a female at Capd'Espoir in early June Swallow Apr. 14 (BD) set a record early arri- Among the records of Yellow-billed (fide RB). val. A White-breasted Nuthatch at Berger- Cuckoos of last fall was one of a bird seen onnesApr. 27-May 9 (AB) was at the e. edge at Grosse-llle Sept. 21, 1980 (,,lB 35:161). RAPTORS THROUGH CRANES--Note- of its range on the North Shore. At lie des According to the observer, this bird was worthy Turkey Vultures included a bird at Soeurs, a Winter Wren Mar. 21 (BC) fur- seenbriefly and identified soleyby its ru- Saint-Joseph de Beauce Feb. 22 (LM) and nished the earliest ever known record. fous primaries. A good many fall cuckoos one reached Bergeronnes Apr. 12 (AB). Among the Blue-gray Gnatcatchersreported are probably identified on the samebasis. Single Cooper's Hawks at Bale Sainte-Cath- this spring, one at Cap-Tourmeme May 9 Upon examination of the specimensin the erine May 2 (FG et al.) and Rimouski May 23 (RL) and one at Rimouski May 20 (JRP) were Nat'l Museum of Canada, MG and BD found that some Black-billed Cuckoos (MLa), plus a Red-shoulderedHawk at Anse- noteworthy, as well as a nest on Mt. Saint- au-Griffon May 23 (fide RB) were all e. of Bruno May 22 (MM). Five Bohemian Wax- also have rufous primaries that are a close their breeding range. The dedication of one wingsat PercdMay 10(RB) were unusual as match with those of Yellow-billed Cuc- of our few hawkwatchers was rewarded with to time and place. koos. W.E. Godfrey pointed out that this a light-phaseSwainsoh's Hawk Apr. 28 near is a feature of immature birds; it is also Valleyfield (BB), a fourth regional recordand describedby Oberholser in Bird Life of the first since 1925. Early Marsh Hawks in- Texas (1:436). The tail pattern thus re- cluded two birds near Valleyfield Feb. 21 mains the most reliable field mark, since (RY) and one at Laurier-Station Feb. 25 both speciescan also have yellow on the OLD), while a late Gryfalcon was seen at lower mandible and yellow eye-rings. Saint-JoachimApr. 20 (GH). SingleSandhill Cranes from Luskville Apr. 12 (AS), Mata- CONTRIBUTORS (boldface) AND OB- gami May 13 (fide MLe) and Gatineau P.P., SERVERS--M. Ainley, Y. Aubry, P. Ban- May 26 (JD) were further evidenceof the spe- non (PBa), B. Barnhurst, G. Beattie, R. Bis- cies increasinglymigrating over w. Quebec. son, P. Boily (PBo), A. Bouchard, M. Bou- dreau, N. Breton, L. Bujold, R. Caissy, P. Prothonotary Warbler, Montrealß P.Q., May Chagnon, C. Chalk, F. Cotton, B. Crevier, PLOVERS THROUGH GULLS--The 20, 1981. Photo/Yves/lubry. J.L. Desgranges, A. Desrosiers, B. DiLabio, mating of a pair of Killdeersat Gagnon May J. Dubois, R.L. Dubois, C. Ducharme, P. 23 (FT) leads one to speculatethat the spe- WARBLERS THROUGH SPARROWS-- Dupal, P. Fallu, L. Fortin, C. Ganthier, G. cies' range is extending as far n. inland as it On Mt. Royal a Prothonotary Warbler pho- Gendron,F. Grenon,W. Grubert,L. Halld, does along the coasts. American Golden tographed May 20 (YA) was seen by many; Y. Hamel, $. Hardy, G. Harvey, J. Hough- Plovers were noted on record early dates this the same was not true of two Blue-winged ton, P. Landry (PLy), P. Lane (PLe), G. year, first at Baleville Apr. 11-12 (YA), then Warblers at Sherbrooke May 25 (JR), one of Larouche(GLa), M. Larriv•e(MLa), S. Le- at lie aux Fermiers May 9 (GS); in each case which was briefly heard the next day. A mieux, R. Lepage, G. Lessard (GLe), M. the possibility of Eur. Golden Plovers was Golden-winged Warbler was noted in N. Hat- Letendre (MLe), L. Maheu, C. Marcotte, S. carefully eliminated. Early records were also Icy May 27 (PBo), a Cerulean on Mt. Royal Massicotte,M. Mcintosh,G. Pauz•, J.R. noted for LesserYellowlegs, Apr. 4 at Mas- the same day (MA), and a Pine Warbler at Pelletier, W. Pelletier, B. Penney, D. Per- kinongdand Baieville(YA), and for Wil- BoischatelApr. 17-25 (RSi et al.). One of the reault, P. Poulin, C. Ruest, J. Ruest, L. Rod- son's Phalaropes at Berthierville Apr. 28 shiest warblers, the Kentucky Warbler was ier, D. Saint-Hilaire, M. Savard, R. Schryer (YH) and Baieville Apr. 30 (PC). Five indi- heard and glimpsed on Mt. Royal May 29 (RSc), G. Seutin, A. Sheppard, R. Simard vidualsof the latter specieswere alsoreported (JH et al.). In addition, a o' Hooded Warbler (RSi), F. Trembiay,C. Vachon,L. ValiSe, from Cap-d'Espoir May 29 (RB). Six Purple was reported from Maria May 28 (PF), need- F. Williams, R. Yank.--NORMAND Sandpiperson Ile desSoeurs May 27 (BP) de- lessto sayfurnishing a first for the Gasp• DAVID, Centre de RecherchesEcologiques serve to be recorded as does a Ruff at Rim- Peninsula. A record arrival was set for the de Montreal,5858 Cote des Neiges # 400, ouski May 17 (GG) and another at Cacouna Bobolink at Old Chelsea Apr. 7 (FC). The o' Montreal, Que. H3S IZI, and MICHEL May 25 (AD). An American Avocet made a Yellow-headed Blackbird seen among Corn. GOSSELIN, 370 Metcalfe # 707, Ottawa, brief appearance at Saint-Augustin de Port- Grackles in Arvida May 7 (FT) provided a Ont., K2P 1S9. neuf May 8 (GLe) and one was at Bic May first local occurrence. Some belated records 20-27 (DP, m.ob.). from last winter indicated a possible winter- March brought two early arrivals in the ing of Rose-breasted Grosbeaks: one male GaspdPeninsula, an ad. PomarineJaeger at and three females in Ville Saint-Laurent Jan. Carleton Mar. 29 (RC) and a Bonaparte's 26 and two males Jan. 28 and Feb. l0 (CD). HUDSON-DELAWARE REGION Gullat thesame place Mar. 20 tLB). Black- The House Finch is being noticed more and /Robert O. Paxton, William J. headed Gulls were presentat Levis Apr. 18- more frequently: two imm. males or females 25 (LF), Rimouski May I (two-CG) and in North HatIcy late February-Apr. 16 {GB, Boyle, Jr., and David A. Cutler BeauharnoisApr. 30 (BB). A LaughingGull fide PBo), one in Cowansville until Mar. 6 The discoveryof a vast springstaging area was at LaSalle May 27 (PBa) and another at (GS), one in Philipsburg Apr. 9 (CC), one in in remote Delaware Bay marsheswhere over Pointe-an-PereMay 31 (CG) while very early LaSalle Apr. 22 (YA), and one in Ville Morn- half a million shorebirdsgather in May, and a Franklin's Gulls were at Saint-Romauld Apr. Royal Apr. 29 (PLy). The enigmatic Europ- late spring warbler fall-out of historic pro- 20 (LF), Saint-G&l•-on,Lake Saint-Jean ean Goldfinch appeared at LaSalle Apr. 21- portions on the outer beachMay 24-25--these Co., Apr. 28 (MS), and two iramatures at 24 (FW et al.). A 9 Rufous-sidedTowhee was are some of the highlights of this season. Pointe-an-Pere May 28 (LH). An imm. and reported from Charlesbourg May 21 (RL), Following a warm, wet February, spring an ad. Little Gull seenat Katevale, respec- and in Mont-Laurier a Dark-eyed Junco was precociousand migration was, for the tively May 13 & 14 (PBo, JR) provided first belonging to one of the w. subspecieswas most part, gradual and protracted. Ice left recordsfor this part of the Appalachians. present Apr. 17-20 (RLD). the Hudson River by mid-February, record

804 American Birds, September1981 p•edictableratios for just outside our area over Greenwich, Conn. that season: 2500 (M.F.N.). Greater, 8-900 Sooty, c. Three Fulvous Whistling Ducks do not an 50 Cory's, and one invasion make, but they may be a portent. Manx shearwaters, 4000 One was at Cruger's I., DutchessCo., N.Y., Wilson's and seven Apr. 9 (J&M Key, M.VanWagner, F.Ger- Leach's storm-petrels mond, E.Pink, M.Yegella), and two at (RK). But there were no Moore's Beach, Cumberland Co., N.J., May N. Fulmars; perhapsthe 23 (BR). Two c• Corn. (Eur.) Teal were at exclusion of foreign Mecox Bay, L.I., Mar. 22 (J.Russica, J.Clin- trawler fleetsbeyond the ton) and a remnant of the winter's Eur. 200-mi limit has remov- Wigeon included one at Cape May to Apr. 10 ed their main concen- (fide PD), and two drakes at Little Creek, trating factor. Del., Apr. 18 (C.Wilds), probably the first multiple record for that state. PELICANS, HER- Early-departing diving ducks left few ONS--Following last spring concentrations, and some observers winter's Brown Pelican drew the conclusion that numbers were occurrence, another was down. Two hundred Corn. Goldeneyes at seen from a boat one mi Culver's L., SussexCo., N.J., Mar. 8 (FT) off Sandy Hook, N.J., were impressive,as were 125 at Vandenburgh May 15 and from shore Cove, Dutchess Co., N.Y., Mar. 15 off Asbury Park the (A.Jones). The Apr. 5 grounding left two next day (Marine Oldsquaws at Allentown, Pa. (SS) and seven •Del Science Consortium, Oldsquaws, plus seven White-winged Scoters fide WJB). Double- (the commonestscoter inland) at Swartswood crested Cormorants in- L., Sussex Co., N.J. (IHB, FF). Also at early, and many waterfowl slipped away creasedsteadily. Three individuals penetrated Culver's L., Mar. 8 was a good clean sweep without notable concentrations,except under as far inland as the upper Delaware R., in of mergansers: 400 Common, eight Red- grounding conditions such as the warm front Warren Co., N.J., May 23 (P.Karner), and breasted, and 25 Hooded (FT). cut off by cold rain April 5 (seeloons, geese, upland New Jerseylakes (FT, C.Kelly). On and ducks). Similar grounding conditions, the coast, an impressive1100+ passedMar- VULTURES, HAWKS, EAGLES-- when warm fronts fed northward into rain, mora, Cape May Co., N.J., Apr. 22 (JDD), producedthe best passerincbirding in the in- but we still have no comprehensivespring sea Climaxing a rapid build-up since 1978, terior (e.g., April 29--May 3, May 13-14). watch data to match D. Ward's fall counts. two Black Vulture chicks were found Apr. The way most warm fronts and groundings Great Blue Heron is one specieswilling to 18 in a cave between two boulders on a occurred in midweek while cold fronts pre- cross the mouth of Delaware Bay. A spectac- forested slope near Mountainville, dominated on weekends aroused complaints ular flock of 61 came in off the bay at Cape Hunterdon Co., N.J. (R.Bailey, of a "poor migration." That impressionwas May Mar. 31 (PD, P.Hodgetts), and 54 were C.Schork, R.Garcia, ph. Art Panzer), heightenedwhen the immensecoastal fall-out grounded by fog at Cape Henlopen, Del., where a pair had frequented a Turkey of May 24-25 had little echo inland. As seve- Apr. 12 (WWF). Singlead. LouisianaHerons Vulture roost for several winters. This ral Changing Seasonscolumnists have com- at Wyalusing, n.e. Pa., Apr. 2 (WR) and at first New Jerseynest is probably the nor- mented, it is hard to judge a migration from Green Lane Res., Montgomery Co., Pa.; thernmost in the Northeast. Three other the ground (a successfuloverflight leaving no May 10 (BK) were unusually far inland. upper Delaware R. sites in New Jersey trace), and it is rash to judge the seasonfrom A decade ago inland incursions of Glossy harbored small parties of Black Vultures, one local experience. Ibiseswere rare. This seasonindividuals pen- although nesting could not be confirmed, Frequently cited locations are abbreviated etrated as far as the n.w. New Jerseyuplands and one vemured N to Mahwah, Bergen as follows: B. Hook (Bombay Hook N.W.R., (three in April, fide GH), Allentown, Pa. Co., Apr. 10 (G.Schultze, B.Baranyay). Del.), Brig. (Brigantine N.W.R., N.J.), (five in three instancesApr. 6-May 12 -- In s.e. Pennsylvania, where the species J.B.W.R. (Jamaica Bay W.R., N.Y.C.). BLM), Atglen, Chester Co., Pa., Apr. 6-10 has bred in the SusquehannaR. valley (RMS), and Betwick, Luzerne Co., Pa., May since at least 1952, they are now wide- LOONS TO TUBENOSES--The Apr. 5 26 (WR). A White-faced Ibis returned to spread. So far no nest has been found n. grounding left a massive 176 Corn. Loons on J.B.W.R., Apr. 19 for the third straight of York and Chester Cos. (AB 32:984), Culver's L., Sussex Co., N.J. (IHB, FF). spring (G&M Dremeaux). A single White but a pair was near Hawk Mt. once again Red-throated Loons seemed seriously re- Ibis, New Jersey'sfirst adult, frequentedthe in March (STB). On the coast there is no duced, sincea Lewes-CapeMay ferry transect great Stone Harbor heronry from Apr. 12, comparable surge out of Delaware, al- Mar. 22 revealed only 80 where 1000+ had but without any evident mate (P. & C. though individuals were at Cape May been present a year earlier (PD, CSI). The Hausman, m.ob.). Apr. 26 & May 17 (CS). annual spring scattering of Red-necked Grebes included some unusual inland sites, GEESE, DUCKS--The regular handful of such as a quarry near Allentown, Pa., Mar. White-fronted Geese, presumedwild, is more Each spring kites put on a more spectacular 1-6 (SS, BLM), and Hawk Mt., Pa., where common in the Susquehanna and Delaware show. Two Swallow-tailed Kites were at B. one was found dead Apr. 3 (J.Brett), but the drainages than down the Hudson R. This Hook May 17 (B&R Richel, ph. K.A.Grim), speciesmust overtly our Region to reach the spring one was at L. Struble, Chester Co., and singlesat Cape May on May 7 (C.Hess) n. plains. An unprecedentedreport of four Pa., Mar. 21 (fide AH), and another at and North Sea, Suffolk Co., L.I., Apr. 19 Eared Grebes at Lake Marburg, York Co., Moore's Beach, Cumberland Co., N.J., Apr. (L.Joanas). Even more MississippiKites than Pa. (increasingto five Apr. 4) was received 25 (IHB, FF et ai.). Snow Geesewere on the ever were around Cape May, although none from an observer familiar with the species move throughout the Region Apr. 3-5 toward was reported elsewherethis time. By one esti- (T.D. Heathcote); two were in breedingplu- their St. Lawrence R. staging area, a bit late mate based on plumage distinctions (CS), mage. and e. of their usual track as rain from the nine individuals accounted for multiple The pace of pelagic birding has eased west pinched off a warm front. "Thousands" sightings, beginning with one Apr. 19, somewhat, now that pioneering days are moved over Whitesbog, Burlington Co., N.J. building rapidly after May 23, and peaking over, and the few sea trips reported no (L. Little), flockstotalling 400 + over Tobay, with four at once June 7 (WJB et ai.). rarities. A May 30 trip to Hudson Canyon, 75 L.I. (AJL, ROP), 16 headed W over the Sulli- Breeding seems only a matter of time, mi e.s.e. of Barnegat Light, N.J., produced van County, N.Y., reservoirs (FM), 40 near although so far most MississippiKites, most high numbers of the predictable speciesin Newburgh, Orange Co., N.Y. (BS), and 65 if not all sub-adults,reach this Region after

Volume 35, Number 5 805 .S.A. A great shorebird stagingarea on Dela- ware Bay was surveyed by air this spring for the first time (Cape May Bird Ob- servatory). Glimpses from occasional points of access,such as Moore's Beach, had suggested that major loafing and feeding areas were hidden in the vast mar- shesand flats that border the bay. A care- ful aerial count of the New Jerseyside, in Cape May and Cumberland Cos., report- ed 318,1900shorebirds in the third week of May, feeding on horseshoe crab eggs, principally SemipalmatedSandpipers and Ruddy Tumstones, but including 60,000 Red Knots (PD), a figure that must repre- sent a very large proportion of the entire w. Atlantic wintering population. Assum- ing comparable numbers on the Delaware side, Dunne estimates that an "awesome" half million plus shorebirdsstage there in New Jersey's first known Black Vulture nest, May 14, 1981, Hunterdon County, N.J. May, at horseshoe crab mating season, Photo/Art Panzer. before proceedingon to arctic breeding the normal nestingdate. would seemto applyto the entire Region.Up grounds. The lower Delaware Bay in We have data from several spring hawk to 15 reports came from the lower Delaware spring clearly belongs among the major watches,both coastaland montane (seecom- R. valley, includinga pair performingcourt- shorebird concentration points of North parison in AB 31:980). Sharp-shinned ship loops near Pedricktown, Salem Co., America. Hawks, heavily coastal, made their biggest N.J., Apr. 20-21 (N&W Lily). Nine were passage Apr. 29 on a classic warm front, counted at Sandy Hook during the season Brig., May 5 (JDD). Baird's Sandpiper, when 647 passedSandy Hook, N.J. (J.Skin- (fide PD), and Hook Mt. counted two late: unlike Am. Golden Plover and Stilt Sandpip- net). Wolfarth's highestspring count fell the Apr. 30 & May 5 (D.Falk). er, has not become regular in spring; we still same day (50 at Hardwick, Warren Co., know of only one photograph in springe. of N.J.), although Hook Mr., on the Hudson RAILS, GALLINULES, TURKEY-- the Mississippi (Amenia, N.Y., June 1979, R., near Nyack, N.Y., had its biggestpassage Three or four Black Rails were calling at the AB 33:756), and no specimen.Singles report- Apr. 18 with 55 {D.Falk). As usual, Sharp- traditional B. Hook site in the nightsof May ed from B. Hook May 2 & 26 (WJW, F&BH) shinnedHawk migrationcontinued into May 8 & 14 (C.Perry, H.Armistead, JAG, DAC). and meticulously described at Shinnecock, (e.g., seven at Cape Henlopen May 13 If none could be confirmed elsewhere,it was L.I., June I (•'PAB) were thus noteworthy. --WWF). A record 226 Cooper's Hawks not for want of trying. Purple Gallinules The Haases have noticed that Least Sand- were countedat SandyHook. Broad-winged drop in somewhereoutlandish each spring. pipers peak in early-middle May while the Hawks, largelymontane, moved mostly Apr. This season one settled at the lighthouse more numerous Semipalmated Sandpipers 18-23 under a large high, nearer normal than pond, Cape May, in May, another was peak in late May, an hypothesissupported by last spring's deferred early May peak. At brought to a Surf City, Ocean Co., N.J., re- figures from B. Hook (JMA) and Long Hook Mt., 791, more than half the season's habilitation center May 26 (B.Jones), and a Island (W.Sedwitz). Six Curlew Sandpipers total, passedApr. 18-20 (D.Falk), and other third flew againsta factory window in River- was the best spring total in many years. Two localitieskept pace:75 at Newark, Del. (BR) dale, Morris Co., N.J., May 23 (K.Pry- were on Long Island (J.B.W.R. and Shinne- and 150+ over Rifle Camp Park, W. Pater- therch, fide IHB). cock--J&C Hastings, G.S. Raynor), three in son, N.J. (P.Both), Apr. 18, and 85 over When New Jersey opened its first spring coastal New Jersey (Brig. and Longport Central Park, Lancaster Co., Pa., Apr. 23 gobbler seasonin 80 years, 71 wild Turkeys --JDD, KB, BMo, F&BH), and one at B. (T.Amico). A secondarypassage accompan- were shot out of an estimated 1000+ in the Hook (F&BH), all in May and all near the ied the Apr. 29 warm front (e.g., 50 at Hard- n.w. uplands(GH). coast, as usual. Ten Stilt Sandpipersat B. wick--FPW), and, once again, there were Hook May (WJW) was a good spring count curious late groups at Cape May: 150 May SHOREBIRDS--American Golden of another once-rare w. spring migrant. None 24, and 20 on June I (CS). Plover, once "one of the rarest of spring mi- was reported elsewhere,perhaps for lack of After a major Rough-leggedHawk winter, grants" (Fables, Annotated List of IV.J. inland rain pools. Godwits, never very com- exceptionalnumbers lingered into spring, the Birds, 1955, p.31) is now annual in spring in mon in spring, were limited to one Hudsoni- latestbeing two at Marmora, Cape May Co., the right habitat; 27 at B. Hook Apr. 22 an and three Marbleds seen from the plane in N.J., May 3 (JDD,RM), and May 16 at Gar- (B.Cadbury, H.Alexander) was a good Dela- the Delaware Bay marshes(PD). diner's I., off e. Long Island (MW). Three ware spring count. Elsewhere about 20 were Ruffs exceeded even their 1980 total, with Golden Eagle reportswere a bit below par. noted, all inland (R. Barber, S.R.Lawrence, at least 12. The regular Pedricktown site held JKM et al.). Noteworthy concentrationsof a record five, four Ruffs and a ReeveApr. 12 Ruddy Turnstonesoutside the Delaware Bay (A.Brady et al.), beginning typically early The ChesapeakeBay Bald Eagle Survey stagingarea included1000 at Cape Henlopen, Mar. 29 with two Ruffs (BMo) and ending (JMA) brought encouragingnews of four Del., May 28 (WWF) and 1100+ at B. Hook Apr. 29 with one (J&R Krebs). Pedricktown active nests in Delaware, the most since May 29 (JMA). In an assemblageof 125 thus surpassesthe mid-1970s "hot spot" for 1936. Three chicks were fledged (none in Whimbrels at Linwood, Atlantic Co., N.J., Ruffs, Little Creek/Port Mahon, Del. (three 2 nests last year). Less happily, the one Apr. 20 was a white-rumped individual pre- in spring 1975, four spring 1976), and since remaining pair in New Jersey, in s. sumed of the Eurasian race (JDD), annual there are vast stretches of inaccessible marsh Cumberland County, failed again, either there sincethe early 1970sand probably the at Pedricktown, who knows what is going on owing to infertility or thinned egg shell. same bird. out there? Elsewhere, Delaware had three No other breeding pairs are known in this Pectoral Sandpipers, among the earliest Ruffs (B. Hook Mar. 13 into late May Region, although the usual dozen or so shorebirdmigrants, peakedat a record 350 + --WJW, F&BH, MVB, JAG, L.Purey) and a scattered iramatures were reported this in the tidal river Hats at Pedricktown, N.J., Reeve (Newport Apr. 17--BR), New Jersey spring. Apr. 11 (RK), their capital in this Region. had one Reeve in the Hackensack Marshes at Elsewhereinland pool waderswere low, pro- Kearny, May 23-25 (IHB et al.), and Long Meritt's judgment that Peregrine Falcons bably for lack of rain pools. The best White- Island had two Ruffs (J.B.W.R., Apr. 22) are "definitely on the way up" in his locality rumped Sandpiperreport was a meager 13 at and a Reeve (Hempstead Lake S.P., May 10

806 AmericanBirds, September 1981 --S.B.Dempsey), coastal records being char- stlne) representsthe first New Jerseyrecord, sang, but there is still no nesting record for acteristicallylater than on Delaware Bay (cf. although it has occurredin New York. There New Jersey. We wonder whether shrikes nest AB 34:760). are also multiple records from Ontario, anywhere in this Region. The usual non-breeding Am. Avocets ap- Maine, Massachusetts, and the Maritime peared at Little Creek, Del., Mar. 14 and Provinces. Most of these records, too, came WARBLERS--The warbler migration was built to a notable 100 by mid-April (F&BH), from the outer coast, but all previous e. re- highly uneven, in ways that call attention to while 43 at B. Hook in mid-April (JMA) was cords known to us have occurred in summer interior-coast disparities. Inland there were a more normal peak. Two at Brig., in late or fall. Ryan observesthat there is a Federal no spectacular waves or groundings. On the May were unusuallyearly for summerdisper- permit whichallows hobbyists to keepWhite- coast, few migrants appeared before mid- sal Black-necked Stilts reached only 8-10 at winged and Ground doves, so escapecannot May. Doscher had banded only 34 birds up to Little Creek May 8 (JMA), but they are more be entirely ruled out. May 10 at Island Beach, N.J., compared to prone to wander early than avocets.At least Great Horned Owls still nest widely in this 373 the previous spring. Then on May 24-25 ten were scatteredin New Jerseyin late May, Region, but Ed Reimann, who has studied the outer coast was inundated with migrants, and three others reached Staten I., May 27-28 them in Delaware for 45 years, reports only from Cape May to Long Island, and perhaps (A Peterson, W&N Siebenheller), two of one nest where normally he finds six, and even beyond. Doscher banded 458 birds May which remained until mid-June (RZE). One where, in 1940, there were 12. He thinks 23-25, Paxton and Lauro 575 with only 8 nets at the Nazareth, Pa., sewer ponds, near Al- woodcutting for fuel and lumbering have ad- at Tobay, L.I., and D.Ford over 700 at Fire I lentown May 12 (ph. BK), was one of a very ded seriouslyto older pressures.An injured lighthouse, L.I., totals approached only once few e. Pennsylvaniarecords. Snowy Owl, a wrist bone broken by gunshot, before in 15 years. The movement was limited The absence of rain pools probably cut inhabited a dense hemlock grove near Allen- to the outer coast. While Dunne described Wfison's Phalarope numbers. None was re- town, Pa., into which it managed to climb J.B.W.R. as "just sick with birds," birding ported inland, and only two on Long Island. and then glide out, as it did when discovered was "very dull" at Allentown, Pa. (BLM) The best count was of six, noteworthy for May 19. Although incapableof taking flight, Four species--Com. Yellowthroat, Canada spring, at B. Hook May 26 (F&BH). Four N. it was thought to have captured prey by and Magnolia warblers, and Am. Redstart Phalaropes at Bull's I., Hunterdon Co., gliding out of the grove, as the examiningvet- --made up two-thirds of the totals banded N J., May 16 (T&J Stiles)were unusual, and erinarian pronounced it underweightbut fit May 24-25. Yet inland several observerscon- s•ngles were at Collier's Mill, Ocean Co., (E.Mease, fide BLM). sidered Canada and Magnolia warblers down N J. (RJB) and Port Mahon, Del. (F&BH) (RFD, KR), and Blackburnian Warblers, the same day. As usual, the only Red Phala- GOATSUCKERS TO RAVENS--The which were common on the outer beach, ropes were offshore: six off BarnegatLight Chuck-will's-widow frontier is now n. of this seemed "shockingly down" in the Hudson May 30, with three Northerns (fide PD). Region, but it continuesto fill in the gaps. Valley (RFD) and "noticeably down" in One was observed on Gardiner's I., off e. Philadelphia (KR). Speciesseem to "bunch GULLS, TERNS--Surprisingly, the May L.I., May 16 (MW) and another was calling up" on migration in waysthat make generah- 30 pelagic trip recorded no skuas, and only May 1 in RiversidePark, N.Y.C. (J.Nolle). A zation from one locality risky. two Parasitic Jaegers. Four Lesser Black- hummingbird sp. feeding at daffodils Apr. 1 Weather maps offer few obvious clues to backed Gulls were average, but, exceptional- at Wildwood, Cape May Co., N.J. (C.B. this narrowly coastal fall-out. Two rain sys- ly, none was s. of New York City. Two were Middleton) went tantalizingly unidentified. tems over the Great Lakes and offshore may in w. Long Island Sound (MFN), and two up have concentrated migrants in between A the Hudson at the Croton Pt. dump Mar. 21 high produced clear skiesand northerly winds Common Ravens are breeding in this over the coast, hardly a day one would have & 23 (R.Lewis). For the secondseason in a Region, after many years' absence.A nest row we have receiveda plausibledescription picked for a wave or grounding. But Paxton was found in Sullivan County, Pa. (fide of a Thayer's Gull, this one an adult at Cape saw warblers coming in off the sea at Tobay WR), and ravens are resident in Wyom- May 24, indicating that wind drift had taken Henlopen, Del., May 6 (•'MVB, BR); at this ing, Luzerne, and Bradford Cos. (WR) as place. It may be that migrants held back for writing we still know of no specimenor pho- well as at Slide Mt., in the Catskills. some time by persistentcool fronts (including tograph from this Region. Elsewhere prospectorsincrease steadily. Four Black-headed Gulls were widely scat- such normally early migrants as Com. Yel- One was n.w. of Allentown in early April tered--two on Long Island, one at Caven Pt., lowthroats and Am. Redstarts) launched (K.Kranick), one at Hawk Mt., Apr. 7 Jersey City, May 9-16 (D.Roche, RK), and themselves at last into a NW wind and were (STB), and Hook Mt., N.Y., had its first one up Delaware Bay at Heislersville, Cum- drifted coastwards. spring record Apr. 30 (H. Martin, S. berland Co., N.J., Apr. 1 (D.Ward). Little Returning to more general considerations, Thomas). Thus our mountain population Gulls outnumbered them, as usual, with eight two Swainsoh'sWarblers turned up well n of is following the explosion in the s. Appa- on Long Island and a maximum of six at their Maryland breeding limit: one at Hlgbee lachians, although there is no sign of re- Beach, N.J., May 12 (JDD, C.Danzenbaker) Caven Cove May 18 (R.Ryan). Farther s. we storation of the New Jersey coastal pop- learned of only one at Little Creek/Port ulation that vanished around 1905. provided a Cape May County record; a sing- Mahon, Del., Apr. 30 (fide AH), wherethere ing male in Prospect Park, Brooklyn, May 13 were up to 25 in the middle 1970s (AB (L.Cohen, P.Prall) furnished the fifth New 29 835). CHICKADEES TO SHRIKES--Following York City area record in the past decade Prospecting Forster's Terns reached a substantial winter invasion of the lowlands, Tennessee Warblers were uncommon on the J B.W.R. (two adults, May 16-17), Shinne- Black-capped Chickadeesremained into May coast and abundant inland (100 at Allentown cock, L.I. (two in sub-adult plumage May 22 as far afield as Tobay, L.I. (AJL, ROP) and May 13--W.Culpepper). Six Orange- --PAB), and, far more exceptionally,Green Carpenter's Woods, Philadephia, May 18 crowned Warblers were far more than usual Lane Res., Montgomery Co., Pa., May 19 (KR), and two were heard and one measured one in Alley Pond Park, Queens Co., May (REW). A sub-adultArctic Tern wasonshore for positive identification in Delaware Mar. 16, three in Orange County, N.Y., May at Shinnecock June 1 (PAB). Strong s.e. 29-21 (DMN). The Boreal Chickadee previ- 12-24, "the best spring ever" (JT, K.McDer- winds brought a surgeof terns ashoreat Cape ously reported at a feeder in Tom's River, mott, BS), one at Hawk Mt., Pa., May 14 May on May 11: six RoseateTerns (DS, PD, N.J., remaineduntil at least Apr. 26 and dis- (A.Nagy), and one in Luzerne County, Pa, WW), rarely seens. of their great e. Long Is- appeared only when the feeder was taken May 13 (DG). Following a trend widely noted land colonies, and a Sandwich Tern (DS), down (fide WJB). last fall, the spruce budworm-eating warb- along with large numbers of Common and A Varied Thrush, annual in this Region, lers, Blackpoll, Bay-breasted,and especially Least terns and 30 Black Terns (PD). An- was near the Middle Creek W.M.A., Leba- Cape May warblers, seemed much reduced other Sandwich Tern was at Shinnecock, non Co., Pa., Apr. 13-14 (ph. R.Cook). everywhere. Long Island, June 1 (PAB), well n. of the Blue-gray Gnatcatcherswere almostly univer- Two o' Townsend's Warblers were found Maryland breedinglimit. sally regarded as "very numerous" (RFD) in on Long Island: Hempstead Lake S.P., Apr "the best spring ever" (JT). A wintering 24-30 (E.Levine, THD, PAB et al.), and Al- DOVES TO OWLS--A White-winged Loggerhead Shrike lingered through March ley Pond Park, Queens, Co., May 9 (H.Roth, Dove at W. Cape May Apr. 24 (ph. B. Augu- at Rosedale Park, Mercer Co., N.J., and S.Yeaton, L.Schore, O.Dunning). These rep-

Volume35, Number5 807 resent the tenth and eleventh New York State A o' Lark Buuting, about the third Dela- S.T.Benz, Irving H. Black (n.e.N.J.: 2 Beau- records, and, like most of the others, were ware record, was carefully describedat Indi- mont Place, Newark, N.J. 07104), R.,I. early in spring and near the coast. Several an River Inlet May 4 (L.Jaco). Although Blieharz (n.c.N.J.: 827 Pennsylvania Ave., dozen Mourning Warbler records were well Henslow's Sparrows could not be found at Trenton, N.J. 08638), Kate Brethwaite, P.A. above average, typically concentrated at the their historic Primehook, Del., breedingarea Buckley, Thomas W. Burke (Westchester end of May. (DAC), one Mar. 29 at Little Buffalo S.P., Co., N.Y.: 235 Highland Ave., Rye, N.Y. Perry Co., Pa. (C. Smith) marked a possible 10580), J.D. Danzenbaker, Thomas H. Davis new location and nine singingmales were pre- (s.c.N.Y., L.l.: 94-46 85th Road, Woodha- BLACKBIRDS TO SPARROWS--Four sent in May near Dallas, and Harvey's L., ven, N.Y. 11421), R.F.Deed (Rockland Co., Yellow-headedBlackbirds was almost par. In n.e. Pa. (WR). N.Y.: 50 Clinton Ave., Nyack, N.Y. 10960), addition to two early March records (Augu- Wayne watched what he thought was a Joe DiCostanzo, Mary Doscher, Peter Dunne stine Beach, DeI.--DMN; and Willowbrook Chipping Sparrowchange into breedingplu- (coastal N.J.: C.M.B.O., Box 3, Cape May Mall, Wayne, PassaicCo., N.J.,fide RK), an mage at Centerville, Del., and was surprised Pt., N.J. 08212), Fran File (FFi), Frank Fra- ad. male lingered suggestivelylate at Great to see it develop an indistinct facial pattern zier, W.W.Frech, G.L.Freed, J.A.Gordon, Swamp, N.J., Apr. 26-late May (B.Nechin), reminiscentof Clay-colored Sparrow and a Douglas Gross, Frank and Barb Haas, Tom and a fenale was in phragmites with Red- rufous cap divided by a pale crown stripe Halliwell, Greg Hanisek (n.w.N.J.: R.D. 3, winged Blackbirds May 18-25 (IHB, RK, (tWJW). Clay-coloredX Chipping Sparrow Box 263, Phillipsburg, N.J. 08865), Armas F.Lenik). A singing o' W. Tanager, almost hybrids are not unknown (Bent, Life Hill (s.e. Pa.: 10 Plum Tree Road, Levit- annual but rare in spring, was at Middletown, Histories, U.S. Nat. Mus. Bull. 237, part 2, town, Pa. 19056), S.P.Homsey, Rich Kane, Monmouth Co., N.J., May 16-17 (B.Sand- p. 1200). Bernie Kita, A.J.Lauro, Robert Maurer, ford, GW et al.). Brad Merritt, ,l.K.Meritt (s.w.N.J.: 809 Sar- Three widely scattered Dickcissels(Staten EXOTICS•An Andean Gull in full breed- atoga Terrace, Turnersville, N.J. 08012), Mi- 1., Apr. 19-22, fide RZE; Audubon, Pa., ing plumage, no doubt an escape, was at a anus Field Notes (MFN), August and Judy Apr. 15--E.W.Graham; and Pittstown, pond in Great Swamp, Morris Co., N.J., Mirabella, B.L.Morris (e. Pa.: 825 Muhlen- Hunterdon Co., N.J., May 2--L. Reilly) were Apr. 9-17 (J. Leuzarder, ph. J.Cloughly, burg St., Allentown, Pa. 18104), Brian Mos- all that could be found. Following a lacklus- m.ob.). We thank J.Bull for help comparing catello (BMo), Frank Murphy, D.M.Niles, ter winter finch movement, the only Pine the photos with specimensin the A.M.N.H. Ted Proctor, William Reid (n.e. Pa.: 556 Grosbeaks reported were two at West Point, A Eur. Goldfinch was filmed at a thistle Charles Ave., Kingston, Pa. 18704), Bob N.Y., Mar. 28 (BS). A few Corn. Redpolls feeder in Centereach, L.I., Apr. 1-6 (F.File, Russell, Keith Russell, R.M.Sehutsky, Ben- lingered at feeders in Middletown, Orange D. Kaufman), a site not closeto the breeding ton Seguin, David Sibley, Cynthia Slack, Co., N.Y. (JT) and Washington, Warren area of a generationago. Thesecommon cage Steve Smith, O.K. Stephenson(Harrisburg Co., N.J. (A.Saunders) into March, but the birds are often released accidentally or on area: Box 125, New Bloomfield, Pa. 17068), specieswent unreported elsewhere. Pine Sis- purpose(cf./lB 30:822). Clay Sutton, Fred Tetlow, John Tramontario kins, by contrast,lingered into early June in a (Orange, Ulster, SullivanCos., N.Y.: Orange number of New Jerseyand n.e. Pennsylvania County Community College, Middletown, locations, and as far s. as Moorestown, Bur- CORRIGENDUM--The two Mississippi N.Y. 10940), Wade Wander, W.J.Wayne, lington Co., N.J. (BMo) and Newark, Del. Kites describedin AB 35:163 as the Region's Marc Weinberger, George Wenzelburger, (P. Jahn), in ways that have produced first fall recordswere actually the second,a R.E.Wiltraut, F.P.Wolfarth, Richard Zain- breeding records in the past (AB 32:987). singlebird havingbeen seen Sept. 19, 1978at Eldeen.--ROBERT O. PAXTON, 560 River- Single White-winged Crossbills, a speciesless Cape May (P.Grant, D.J. Britton). sideDrive, Apt. 12K, New York, N.Y. 10027, prone to post-dispersallingering than is Red WILLIAM ,l. BOYLE, JR., 15 Indian Rock Crossbill, were at feedersto May 2 at Stan- OBSERVERS--(subregionaleditors bold- Road, Warren, N..I. 07060, and DAVID A. hope, SussexCo., N.J. (fide FPVO and to faced) J.M.Abott, Pete Bacinski, M.¾.Barn- CUTLER, 1110 Rock Creek Drive, Wyneote, May 10 at Denmeade, n.w.N.J. (GH). hill (Del.: Box 7603, Newark, Del. 19711), Pa. 19095.

MIDDLE ATLANTIC COAST above average ranging 1.3ø to 5.7 ø higher hawks, Red-breasted Nuthatch, Hermit REGION than usual and averaging2.7 ø above for the Thrush, Evening Grosbeak, Pine Siskin, et entire Region. May was a disappointment passim.) Many birds that normallyarrive in / Henry T. Armistead with readings 1.75ø below normal, the first numbersduring early May were late, particu- half of the month beingparticularly cool, and lary flycatchers,and warblers. Severalrarities Most areas were cool in March which also was afflicted with strong winds, often present in winter stayed on into the early averaged 1.17ø F below normal. April was NW, W, NE or E, and thusadverse for spring spring period and the shorebirds at Chin- warm. All stations reported temperatures migration. Precipitation in March was 1.95 coteaguewere in high numbersbut top billing inches below normal but goesto raptors. Be sureto read the encourag- most areas had close to ing news, which could changeat any time it normal rain in April and should be stressed,about Bald Eagles, the ,-:, , May, so, essentiallythe flights at Fort Smallwood Park southeast of drought continues. Baltimore, and a belated Peregrine Falcon Warm weather passer- update. If passerinesseem underrepresented ines and certain water- in this report so were they in the reports birds staged some received. earlier-than-usual ap- pearances in late March LOONS THROUGH ANHINGAS--The and April but the eager- Corn. Loon flight was moderateto poor with ly anticipated landbird 620 at Ft. Smallwood Park (hereafter, "waves" in May for the F.S.P.) in n.e. Anne Arundel Co., Md., Mar. most part did not mater- 26-May 27 with highs there of 123 Apr. 18 ialize. Rather, May was and 120 Apr. 28 (HW, EB). As late as May notable for low heron 30 eight were still on L. Anna, Louisa- and marsh bird num- Spotsylvania Cos., Va. (JBB,SC). Notewor- bers, a fine coastal and thy Red-throated Loon singleswere at Chin- bay shorebird passage, coteague (hereafter, Chinc.) May 9-17 and many lingerers. (See (breeding plumage, DFA et aL, ph.), N especially waterfowl, Baltimore (hereafter, Bait.) Apr. 4-7 (RFR,

808 AmericanBirds, September 1981 m.ob.) and Yorktown, Va., Apr. 21 (BW). Apr. 16, not spectacularnumbers, but how nacle Goose flew overheadcalling on May 8 The sole Red-necked Grebes were also solos: many stations have ever bothered to record (EM), its origin unknown. As late as Mar. 25 Ocean City Mar. 8-21 + (JBB, PGD et al.), suchflights? Green Heron was widely regard- there were 2000 Snow Geeseplus 25 of the Swift Creek Res., w. of Richmond Mar. 14 ed as both late and low (RFR, HTA, FLP, blue form at Denton (RBF) while 12 Snows (FRS, JWD) and Chinc., Mar. 26 (JMA). CT) while Cattle Egret drew only slightly less were at Chinc., May 9 (CPW). Single Blues Horned Grebe numbers continue at a commentary and was less common on the were at Dyke Marsh from January-June 2 drastically reduced level, the subject of Eastern Shore of Maryland (FLP, JGR, (DFA, ph.) and in Kent County, Md., May 2 universally pessimisticcommentary. Highest HTA). (FLP). Four other late Snows were in reportswere of 150 at Chinc., Mar. 26 (JMA) Unusual for the Virginia Piedmont were Wicomico County, Md., May 2 (CRV et al.). and 400 at Craney I. Disposal Area single Snowy Egrets at Ni Res., Apr. 20 (SC, On Mar. 29, 390 Gadwall were at Deal Island (hereafter, Craney), Portsmouth, Va. JF, first Spotsylvania County record) and W.M.A. (HTA, CP, RFR) where three late (TRW). Farther inland they vergedon being Swift Creek Res., Apr. 23 (FRS)--both the Pintails were May 6 (JGR, DM). An even absent in many areas (JBB, JMA, EB, JGR, earliestrecords for that physiographicarea of later one was in Kent County May 17 (FLP) RFR, FRS, CT, MLW). Better grebe news the state. Scarcefar up the ChesapeakeLoui- and 121 Green-winged Teal in Dorchester came in the form of two Eared Grebes at siana Herons were at Dyke Marsh May 6 County May 2 furnished a record May count Balt., Apr. 4-15 (EB, RFR, JS et al., ph.), (DFA, JMA) and F.S.P., Apr. 11 & 29 for there (HTA, CP, EMW). The high count Maryland's fourth record and first (HW). Yellow-crowned Night Herons return- received for Blue-wingedTeal was a modest documented one. Another was at Craney ed to Norfolk as early as Mar. 26 (RC) and 150 at Elliott l., Md., Apr. 14 (WK). The Mar. 6 (TRW). Pied-billed Grebe drew scant were nest building by Mar. 29, and McKee- Cinnamon Teal remained at Blackwater notice but 20 were at L. Anna Mar. 8 (JBB). Beshers W.M.A., Md., Mar. 28 (B&FH). N.W.R. (hereafter, Black.) at least from Feb. Human pelagic activity was nearly nil Several observers considered Least Bittern 16-Mar. 22 (JBB, B&FH et al.). A 9 Eur. although six Sooty Shearwaters and 200 less common this spring (HTA, FLP, RFR) Wigeon was reported from Remington Wilson's Storm Petrels were off Ocean City but one at Charlottesville May 13 8:15 pro- Farms, Md., Mar. 13 (JG, fide FLP). Lily May 16 (PO, fide CPW). A White Pelican vided the sixth Virginia Piedmont record Pons provided the high Wood Duck count was seen again at Fisherman Island N.W.R. (PY). American Bittern was also considered with 43 on May 22 (DHW). (hereafter, F.I.N.W.R.) Apr. 20-May 11 scarcer(HTA, FLP, RFR) although six were The general scarcityof diving birds may be (RLA). At L. Anna a Brown Pelican turned at Deal Island W.M.A., Mar. 29 (CP, RFR, seen from the totals of one Corn. Loon, eight up May 26 (BAs, JB, fide JBB), a seemingly HTA). Glossy Ibises away from known Horned Grebes and one Red-breasted bizarre record for suchan inland locality yet nesting site areas included 2-24 at F.S.P., Merganser on immense Kerr Res., Va., Mar. they have occurred there before, in mid- May 7-14 (HW), 2-3 at Baltimore Mar. 21 (RC et al.), the only such seen that day. summer. Small numbers of Great Cor- 21-May 10 (RFR, HK et al.), three at Piney Late Canvasbackswere at Ocean City May 1 morant, mostly in March, were at Run P., Carroll Co., Apr. 3 (BR, fide EB), (RFR), York R., May 9 (BW) and two at Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel (hereafter, two at Patuxent Naval Air Station Apr. 17 Chestertown, Md., May 18 (flying, FLP). C.B.B.T.), Hampton Roads, and Craney (JC) all in Maryland, and one at Charlot- Buffleheads were even later with singles at (DFA, TRW) but more surprisingwas one tesville May 5 was the secondAlbemarle Co., Chinc., May 9-16 (DFA, CPW), Deal I., May way up the Choptank R., at Denton Mar. Va. record (CB, PY). White Ibis sightingsin- 6 (JGR, DM), York County, Va., May 9 8-14 (SW et al.,fide AJF), a first for Caroline cluded an adult at Ocean City Apr. 4 (BCL, (BW) and 48 in Kent County May 2 (FLP). County, Md. Large but normal numbers of MKK), one of the few Maryland recordse. of One-two Harlequin Ducks were at Ocean Ci- Double-crested Cormorants were 3000 on ChesapeakeBay, and another at Fisherman ty Mar. l-May 3 {CP, HTA, RFR, m.ob., Heron I. Bar, St. Mary's Co., Md., Apr. 7 l., Apr. 20 (RLA) where breedingshould be ph.) and one remainedat Rudee Inlet, Va., at (JMA), 2600 at Craney Mar. 24 (TRW) and watched for. least until Mar. 24 (DFA, JMA et al.), where 1000 on Fisherman l., May 3 (BKM, SL). the Corn. Eider was also present Mar. 8-14 Farther up ChesapeakeBay good countswere (m.ob.). One King Eider was at Ocean City of 700 at Denton Apr. 15 (SW, fide AJF) and until Mar. 22 (JBB, B&FH et al.). Ruddy 210 over Bellevue, Md., Apr. 21 (HTA). Ducks peaked at Craney Apr. 7 when 1000 Even farther up 15 were still at Balt., May 29 were estimated there (TRW). On the James (RFR) while one was at L. Anna May 30 R., 500 Red-breasted Mergansers were seen (JBB, SC) and as of June 12 somewere still in Mar. 23 (TA) and a late bird of this species the Hopewell, Va. area (FRS). Maryland's latest to leave of diver specieswas on L. Anna fourth Anhinga was well seen over F.S.P., May 30 (JBB, SC). On May 14, 32 were at near Balt., May 9 by Blom and Wierenga. F.S.P. (HW). Six, a record Regional total, and about the 13th Virginia record, were at Stumpy L., VULTURES THROUGH RAILS•There Virgina Beach May 16-23 (RLAk, TRW). is much raptor newsand it is all good. A well- seen Swallow-tailed Kite was over Sugarloaf HERONS THROUGH IBISES•Heron Mt., Frederick Co., Md., May 25 (SS). numbers at Chinc. were low (FRS, CPW) Sharp-shinnedHawks lingeredlater than nor- perhaps because the nearby colony in the mally with May birds seenat Black., May 2 & marsh s. of the causewayhas been abandoned "Blue"Goose,Dyke Marsh, Va., Apr. 8,1981. 9 (HTA et al.), Kent County (FLP), Somerset (JHB). In the course of an eagle survey by First there in over 20 years. Photo/David F. County, Md. (CRV), and Caroline County plane the following pairs of Great Blue Abbott. (AJF), these latter all May 2 and on the Herons were noted: 300 at Nanjemoy Cr., Eastern Shore of Maryland. Very late ones Charles Co., 200 at Bluff Pt., St. Mary's Co., WATERFOWL--Most were unimpressed were singlesMay 28 at Charlottesville (BW) 50 at Patuxent R. (all in Maryland) and 300 at with the waterfowl migration althoughthere and May 30 both at L. Anna (JBB, SC) and Potomac Cr., Stafford Co., 80 at Mason seemedto be a few more lingering divers than F.S.P. (HW). Wierenga, Blom et al. counted Neck N.W.R., Fairfax Co. (both in Virginia) usual. Four Mute Swans at L. Anna May 3 raptors on 60 dates Mar. 13-June 16 at (JMA). Other colonies included 77 nests at providedthe secondrecord for there,the first F.S.P., seeing 9828 of 14 species which Bloodsworth l., Mar. 28 and 22 at Deal I. for SpotsylvaniaCounty (SC, TW, JF) and averaged out to 29/hour. Notable counts W.M.A., Mar. 29 in Maryland (HTA, CP, Canada Geese also bred there for the first were of 1186 Turkey Vultures, 5153 Sharp- RFR) while the huge colony on Poplar I., is time, a pair with threeyoung being observed shinned Hawks, 224 Cooper's Hawks, 205 down to 50-70 pairs due to erosion (JGR). May 30 (JBB, SC). Major flightsof Canada Red-shouldered Hawks, 12 Bald Eagles, 509 Scott discovered a new site in Hanover CounN Geese occurred on Mar. 4, 11 & 15 and of Ospreys, five Peregrine Falcons and 71 ty, Va., which only has ten pairs but Whistling Swans Mar. 4, 11 & 22 (HW, Merlins. Individual high counts included 157 representsthe state's westernmostcolony. At RFR). A {Blaek) Brant wascarefully studied Turkey Vultures Mar. 29, 787 Sharp-shinned F.S.P., migrants were noted Mar. 13-May 26 at Chinc., Apr. 26 (TWB, JCM et al.). At Hawks Apr. 29 (640 Apr. 28), 37 Cooper's totalling 146 with highs of 11 on Mar. 26 and Patuxent Wildlife Research Center a Bar- Hawks Apr. 28, 50 Red-shouldered Hawks

Volume 35, Number 5 809 Mar. 13, 53 OspreysMay 7, 17 Merlins Apr. places. Three Merlins were at Sandy Pt. S.P. 1604 May 7-8; Curlew Sandpiper one on May 27 (13, on May 12). Interesting late records (hereafter, S.P.S.P.)on May 11 (HW). 20-26 (also by JHB); Dunlin 6316 Apr. 6-7; were 112 Broad-winged Hawks June 4 (two A May 22, 1981 report notes that Ward et Short-billed Dowitcher 965 May 15-16; June 16) and four OspreysJune 5. Many of al. captured 176 Peregrine Falcons at 3 Semipalmated Sandpiper 10,462 May 25-26; these counts are unprecedented for the coastal sites in the fall of 1980. Three of these Marbled Godwit one Apr. 19; Ruff one Apr. Region in the spring either as seasonhighs, had been bandeda few daysearlier at stations 27-28; Sanderling 1342 Apr. 6-7; Wilson's one day countsor late records.This pioneer- farther n. He considersthis almost as good a Phalarope two May 25-26; N. Phalarope five ing effort underscoresthe importance of the flight year as the recordone of 1979when 140 May 25-26. Concerning dowitchers she has Maryland w. shore as a raptor flyway and in werecaught on AssateagueI. Since1970, 626 this to say ". . I have profound doubts view of the results so far, which are the ef- Peregrineshave been trapped on this island about all visualcalls on LBDs from observers forts of only a few people, the potential where counts of 312 Merlins, 781 Marsh who aren't aware of the immense differences counts would probably be even more im- Hawks and a total of 512 Peregrinesightings between the two subspeciesof SBDs that oc- pressive. (vs. 598 in 1979) were made in 1980. Since cur in these parts. They are at least as dif- In the Patuxent R. area Martin found an 1970 both Merlins and Peregrineshave shown ferent from each other in breeding plumage average 1.9 young/pair of Red-shouldered a nearly steadyupward trend here in terms of as either is from an LBD." Huge numbers of Hawks, the third best in 11 years of study the numbers seen per 100 man hours, the excep- Black-bellied Plovers, 4000-6000 were bestbeing last year's 2.1. On FishermanI., 14 tion being two very low years of 1972 and estimated on the lower Eastern Shore of small groups of 2-4 Broad-winged Hawks 1974. Limited numbers of harmless blood Virginia May 18 (GR,BT) and one at L. Anna were seen May 3 (RLA). Record late Rough- samplesare extracted for pesticideanalysis. May 31 was the secondspring Virgina Pied- legged Hawks for Maryland were two at The feeling is that most recent Peregrine mont record (JBB). A large passage of Black., May 2 (HTA, EMW et al.) and one in pesticide contamination occurs s. of the Whimbrels was seen May 23 e. of Watts I., Wicomico County May 2 (CRV). An imm. U.S.-Mexico border and that this is not at a Va. (GR; five flocks of 35-150). In Belfast Golden Eagle at Bellevue, Md., Apr. 21 was level critically harmful to reproduction. Valley, Baltimore Co., Md., 18 Upland Sand- at an unusual locality (HTA) and three were Assateagueis so well known as a stagingarea pipers were seen Apr. 25 (HK, m.ob., fide in Kent County Mar. 22 (FLP). On May 2, 19 that printing this data is not consideredan in- RFR). Bald Eagles in Dorchester County furnished discretion.To sum up the report "...record An early Solitary Sandpiperwas at Hope- the second highest May count there by a levels of Peregrines for the second con- well Mar. 29 (FRS) and 50 were at Loch singleparty (CP, EMW et al.) and the total of secutiveseason. Every parameter studied was Raven Res., May 12 (HK, fide RFR). At 17 Marsh Hawks May 9 provided a new May positive." (FPW). Black., 325 Lesser Yellowlegs was a record high (HTA, EWM et al.). Early Ospreyswere There is still concern for the Bobwhite with Dorchester County count Apr. 24 (JGR, at Kingsmillnear Williamsburg Mar. 4 (TA), numbers still low in some areas of the Pied- HTA). Two Red Knots at Ocean City May 1 two in Talbot County, Md., Mar. 7 (JGR) mont (EB, JWE). Near Frederick, Md., a tied the Maryland early date (RFR). Pectoral and one at Eastern Neck Island N.W.R., Turkey hen was seen on a nest with 13 eggs Sandpiper high counts were of 300 in Kent Mar. 9 (FLP) and 59 were in Dorchester May 23 (B&FH). At Chinc., May 27 Meanley County Apr. 8 (FLP), 125 at Black., Apr. 24 County Mar. 28 (RFR, CP, HTA), a typical found 23 Clapper Rail nestswith 7-12 eggs. (JGR, HTA) with March birds noted at count there consisting of breeding birds. The high Black Rail count was nine at Elliott Hunting Creek, Va. (JBB), Lily Pons(DHW, There are at least ten Peregrine Falcon hack- I., May 24-25 (HTA, CP) when 36 Virginia Mar. 15) and James City County, Va. (BW). ing sitesin the Region now and this speciesis Rails were also heard. Elsewhere three Blacks Five Long-billed Dowitchers were at Chinc., increasingly being seen at odd dates and were S.P.S.P., in May (HW), one at Tilgh- May 9 (JMA, DFA). Stilt Sandpiperswere at man's I., Md., May 21 (JE, fide JGR) and Black., May 2-9, six and three (HTA, EMW, S.A.. one at Truitt Landing Rd., Worcester Co., FLP), Chinc., May 15-16, six (CPW), Trap- The Chesapeake Bay Bald Eagle Md., May 2 (RFR). Two were heard at Elliott pe, Md., May 4, one (JE et al., fide JGR) and Nesting Surveyrevealed 95 (previoushigh I., 3:10 p.m. and flushed when the car stop- one in Worcester County May 2-(RFR). At 87) active nests with 4 Delaware, 51 ped Apr. 26 (TRB, TWB)! Sofas were scarce Craney 9300 Semipalmated, 600 Least and Maryland, 40 Virginia; which hatched 96 (HTA, RFR) as wereCorn. Gallinules.Three 100 White-rumped sandpiperswere estimated (previoushigh 74) young with 3 Delaware, Purple Gallinules appeared in the Virginia May 18 (RC, MC). MarylaNd Ruffs were at 53 Maryland, 40 Virginia, the best results Beach-Lynnhaven Inlet-Back Bay N.W.R. Loch Raven Res., Apr. 27-May 4 (BD, RFR in the survey's20-year history (JMA, BC, area in early May (TRW et al.). At L. Anna et al.) and Ocean City Mar. 8 (HB). No Am. FRS et al.). Especially encouragingwas 902 Am. Coots were seenMar. 8 (JBB). Avocets were seen, Craney being too dry for the nearly steadydrop in abandonednests them (TRW). From one to five Black-necked from 85% in 1962 to 67% in 1970, 57% in Stilts were at Chinc., Apr. 26-May 20 (TWB, 1975, and 36% in 1981. Five nests each JHB). One was at Back Bay N.W.R., May 16 produced three young. One eagle pair (TRW). Maryland phalaropes included a took over and enlarged a Great Blue Wilson's at Balt., May 31 (RFR, m.ob.) and Heron nest of the previousyear. Later 20 a Northern at Lily Pons May 20 (DHW). pairs of herons began nesting at this site and a Great Horned Owl was also breed- JAEGERS THROUGH SKIMMERS ing in the area! Kepone-strickenJames R., --Rare on Chesapeake Bay two Parasitic produced four eaglets from 3 nests, the Jaegers were at Bozman, Talbot Co., Md., first there since 1969, except for two May 31 (JJ). Numerous Glaucous Gulls, young last year. Banders tagged three mostly secondyear birds, were seenwith May young in Delaware, 41 in Maryland and birds at C.B.B.T., May 10 (RLA), Lynn- 32 in Virginia. Full details are available Purple Gallinule, Lynnhaven Inlet, Virginia haven Inlet May 2-5 (fide CPW), and from Jackson M. Abbott, 3501 Doter Beach, Va., May 5, 1981. Photo/Ned S.P.S.P., May 9 (HW, PAD). Iceland Gulls Dr., Alexandria, VA 22308 if one sendsa Brinkley. were reported only from Arlington, Va., legal sizedSASE with 35 cents(as of July Mar. 6 (DFA) and Lynnhaven Inlet May 2-5 1981!) postage.It shouldnot be overlook- SHOREBIRDS--The shorebird passage (fide CPW). LesserBlack-backed Gulls were ed that from a low of 0.16 young per ac- was notable for both abundance and variety. seen at 12 localities with as many as nine per- tive nest in 1962 the Bay eagles have re- At Fisherman I., Am. Oystercatchers had 55 iod birds on the Potomac R., below Washing- covered to the extent that 1. + per 'active nests(rs. 13 in 1973; RLA) the increasepro- ton (DFA). A Thayer's Gull was reported nest were recorded in 1981, close to nor- bably due to a big build up of sand areas. At from Hunting Creek, Va., Apr. 29 (JMA). mal production, and, although there are Chinc., Wilds made 7 thorough shorebird The fourth Maryland sight record for Cali- many variables, a clear suggestion that surveys with these highlights: Semipalmated fornia Gull was seen e. of Balt., May 10 banning of the more insidious chemicals Plover 1748 May 15-16; Piping Plover 28 on (HK), a carefully described adult. For the has helped these great birds. Apr. 6-7; White-rumped Sandpiper 85 May fifth straight year a Black-headed Gull sur- 15-16 and 92 May 25-26; Least Sandpiper faced at Balt., Mar. 21-Apr. 7+ (EB, RFR).

810 AmericanBirds, September 1981 Both Laughing Gull and Royal Tern were in Red-breastedNuthatch was widely reported Wdson's Warbler reports were May 16 Scott higher numbers than usual up some of the in small numbers in early May at Arlington, had 11 Canada Warblers May 23 at Rich- Chesapeake rivers, possibly because of the Dyke Marsh, Frederick, Kent County, mond and Parks noted six in Kent County year-longdrought and resultanthigher salini- Black., Caroline County, S.P.S.P. and May 24. ty levels (FRS, BW). Two Little Gulls were Chinc., the latter the last on May 9 by Wilds near Balt. (Back R. sewagetreatment plant) (DFA, AJF, FLP, HTA, HW, m.ob.). Be- TANAGERS THROUGH SPARROWS Apr. 7 + for the fifth consecutiveyear (EB et lated but interesting is the report of 250+ -- The Western Tanager first seenlast winter al ). Forster's Terns showedup early and in House Wrens being produced from bluebird remained in Virginia Beach until Mar 24 good numbers with up to 74 in Dorchester houses in the Sterling, Va. area last year (DFA, m.ob.). An odd Scarlet Tanager at L County May 2 (EMW, CP et al.) and 13 (CT). Concern that Carolina Wren is still way Anna May 31, "orange variant" with orange breeding plumage birds at Deal I., Mar. 28 down in Piedmont areas was expressed(EB, body and brown wings but with the mid and (CP, HTA, RFR). Rare terns were two Arc- CT, v.ob.). The tenuous presenceof Short- lower breast white, sang alternately like a tics at Hampton Roads May 9 (DFA, JMA) billed Marsh Wren in the Region was bol- Summer Tanager or Scarlet (JBB). A Black- and singleRoseates at Lynnhaven Inlet May 9 stered only slightly by reports from Balt. headed Grosbeak was at a feeder In (DFA, JMA) and Back Bay May 16 (TRW). (Black Marsh), two May 10 (HK), Sterling Gloucester, Va., where it was seen Mar 24 The first Royal Terns were two at Craney May 1-3, (CT), Dyke May 9 (fide CPW), (DFA et al.) The first Indigo Buntingswere at Mar. 17 (TRW), one at Ocean City Mar. 21 Elliott I, two May 9-25 (HTA, CP, FLP), Towson, Md. (BI, fide RFR) and Dyke (JBB) and one on C.B.B.T., Mar. 22 (RLA). Deal I., May 6 (JGR, DM), Saxis I., Va., Marsh (PY, fide CPW) both Apr. 18 Both An early Caspian Tern was at Chinc., Mar. May 24-29 (RPR). The latter 3 sites have Evening Grosbeak and Pine Siskin reap- 26-27 (CPW) and 23 were at Hunting Creek diminutive breeding populations. The thrush peared in late March, increasedin April and Apr. 28, some of the latter rising off a bar flight was poor (JMA, JWE, FRS, CT) al- lingereduntil untypically late datesin May at very late in the day (2010 hrs.) and flying out though there was a flurry of activity May many localities. One Evening Grosbeak was of sight convincingBazuin they were engaged 23-24 (SHD, HW). More than the usual num- at F.S.P., May 13 (HW), others were in Kent in nocturnal migration. Otherwise the Cas- ber of Hermit Thrushes lingered into May County May 14 (FLP) and four were in Lex- pian and Black tern flight was poor. A Black with one in Richmond May 8 (FRS) and an- ington P., Md., May 15 (EJW). The latest Skimmer at CharlottesvilleMay 20 (BDt,fide other banded n. of Washington at Adventure siskinswere five in Richmond May 15 (FRS), CES) provided a first Albemarle County May 10 (fide EMW). Unusual locally was an one in St. Michaels, Md., May 15 (JGR), an record and farthest inland one for Virginia. E. Bluebird at Chinc., Apr. 6-7 (CPW). unspecifiednumber in Fairfax, Va., May 18 Cedar Waxwings are erratic and rare nesters (JWE) and one in Arnold, Md., May 30 DOVES THROUGH WAXWINGS--In on the Delmarva Pen., but a nest was found (WK). There were more reports of these two Richmond, Scott banded a young Mourning at Wittman, Talbot Co. and was active species in May than there are in an entire Dove already off the nestby Mar. 11. In spite through at least early June (AM, fide JGR). winter someyears. House Finch continuesto of massive caterpillar outbreaks on the spread, consolidate and increase with counts Delmarva Pen., cuckoos were in average VIREOS THROUGH WARBLERS--Ob- suchas 256 at Ocean City Mar. 9 (CP, HTA) numbersthere (HTA). A Long-earedOwl re- servers who commented on the warbler The White-winged Crossbill at Richmond mained at Piney Run P., until Mar. 22 migration were unanimouslynegative (JMA, was last seenMar. 17 (SM, FRS, m.ob ) (RFR). Single Saw-whet Owls were at Sher- JWE, AJF, PN, FRS, HTA, DHW). The The most cavalier of many lingering Savan- wood, Talbot Co., Mar. 27 (AM, fide JGR) normally-early warblers (Louisiana Water- nah Sparrows was one at L. Anna May 31 and the Nat'l Arboretum in Washington thrush, Black-and-white and Yellow- (YBB). From two-four Henslow's Sparrows Mar. 1-7 (RFR, HW). At S.P.S.P., a Chuck- throated) were late and the migration of were at Elliott I., Apr. 25, May 2, 9 & 24 (CP, wall's-widow nest with one egg was found others ended in late May without the usual TRB, EMW et al.) and five were heard at May 9-19 (HW). Early Chimney Swifts were few June spillovers. The better flight days Saxis May 24 (RPR)-two of the handful of at Newport News Mar. 25 (M&DM) and were Apr. 28 & 30, May 8, 23-24. In Alexan- known breedingsites for them in the Region F S.P., Mar. 27, 29 & 31 (HW). Belted dria 15-acre Monticello P., is a recently- Very late was a Dark-eyed (Slate-colored) Kingfisherscontinue in low numbersfollow- discovered landbird hot spot. An early Junco at Bozman, Talbot County May 15 ing the hard winters of the late 1970s. Single White-eyed Vireo was at CharlottesvilleApr. (fide JGR) as was a White-throated Sparrow migrant Pileated Woodpeckers were at 5 (DF, fide CES). Also early was a Black- at Arnold, Md., May 24 (WK). Single Lin- F S.P., Apr. 2, May 4 & 10 (HW). Ten Red- and-white Warbler at Williamsburg Mar. 31 coln's Sparrows were reported from only 4 headed Woodpeckers were at Myrtle Grove (BW). As in the past 4 years Meanley found localities. The last Snow Bunting was at W M.A., Md., Mar. 15 (PYh,fideCPW). A the Prothonotary the commonest warbler in S.P.S.P., Mar. 6 (HW). Red-cockaded Woodpcker at Chinc., Apr. 10 Dismal Swamp with 65 along a 25 mi route (JHB) was new to the refuge and only the May 26. Blue-winged Warbler and N. Water- ADDENDA--Important records just fourth locality from which they have been thrush were both commoner than usual with receivedinclude four Wilson's Phalaropesat reported on the Delmarva Pen. The origin of ten of the latter in Richmond May 13 one of McKee-Beshers W.M.A., Aug. 9; also two such an isolated individual is difficult to ex- which attacked a singing Indigo Bunting at Brown Pelicans and five Am. Avocets on plain. A singing Alder Flycatcher with sing- the top of a pine tree (FRS, DP). Brewster's Assateague I., Aug. 16. These all in 1980 in ing Willow Flycatchers in the immediate Warblers were seen at Dismal Swamp Apr. Maryland by B&FH. vicinity was at Monkton n. of Balt., May 30 25-May 3 (RC, MC, BKM, SL), Patuxent (RFR, EB). In several areas Willows did not W.R.C., .Apr.30 (PL, fide CPW), Penny- OBSERVERS--D. F. Abbott, J. M Ab- arrive until May 14 (DFA, DHW). Flycat- field near Seneca, Md., Apr. 25 (MOJide bott, R. L. Ake (RLAk), R. L. Anderson, chers in general seemedboth late and in low CPW) and Arlington May 2-4 (TB, fide Bob Andrews (BAs), Tom Armour, Bob numbers (JMA, HTA, FRS). CPW). An Orange-crowned Warbler at Augustine, T. R. Baptist, Cricket Barlow, Tree Swallows are thriving in the Region as Dismal Swamp was well described Apr. 25 Joyce Barton, J. B. Bazuin, Henry Bielsteln, breeders and 3 observers found them nesting (RC, MC). Early warblers were a N. Parula C. R. Blem, Eirik Blom, Terry Boykie, J H in bluebird houses (JBB, RFR, DHW). The at Newport News Apr. 5 (M&DM) and a Buckalew, T. W. Burke, Michelle Cawthorn, earliest Barn Swallow was at Linkwood, Md., Black-throated Green in Norfolk Mar. 31 Ray Chandler, Bill Clark, Jim Clark, Sam Mar. 22 (JBB). Other early swallowsincluded (RC). Cerulean Warblers were seenin several Cooper, Bruce Davenport (BDt), J W a Cliff near S.P.S.P., Apr. 9 (BA, fide HW) places where normally they are very scarce: Dillard, Bob Dixon, P. A. DuMont, P G and 15 Purple Martins at F.S.P., Mar. 13 Mt. Vernon, Va., Dyke Marsh, Talbot Coun- DuMont, S. H. Dyke, Jeff Efflnger, J W (three Mar. 15; HW). At L. Anna 28 Cliff ty, Richmond, and Kent County (DFA, Eike, Ethel Engle, Wilbur Engle, David Swallow nests were found May 30-31 (JBB, DFA, DM, FRS, FLP respectively). Bay- Field, A. J. Fletcher, R. B. Fletcher, John SC) and 75 nestswere seenin the Liberty Res. breasted Warblers were widely reported May Frary, Jim Gruber, Hugh Hanson, Bill & area n.w. of Bait., in late May (RFR). A 23-24. A Prairie Warbler at Chinc., Apr. 5 Floyd Hayes, M.W. Hewitt, Betty Iber, Jon tremendous flight of 25,000 Blue Jays was was early (MKK et al.). Single Mourning Janosik, Alice Jones, Leigh Jones, Hank witnessed at F.S.P. in late April-early May Warblers were at Arnold, Md., May 24 (WK) Kaestner, M. K. Klimkiewicz, Wayne (EB). After an unimpressivewinter showing and Lewisetta, Va., May 16 (FRS). Most Klockner, Paul Leifer, B.C. Leverman,

Volume 35, Number 5 811 Lipschutz, L. C. McCrady, Aron Marshall, LOONS THROUGH FRIGATEBIRDS -- found at Augusta, Ga., during the spring, E. W. Marshall, Elwood Martin, Brooke A count of 17 Com. Loons on L. Lanier, and althoughthe observers(AW,VW) did not MeanIcy, D. A. Mendinhall, Donald Meritt, Ga., Apr. 12 (JP) was good for an inland lo- cite breeding evidence, the waders must be Mike & Dorothy Mitchell, B. K. Moscatello, cale, and the always noteworthy Red-necked nesting. On Apr. 17 they saw 322 Cattle Sally Moxley, Paul Nistico, Mariana Nuttie, Grebe was reported from Morehead City, Egrets, 135 White Ibises, and a few Little Michael O'Brien, Paul O'Brien, J.P. Oland, N.C., Mar. 6 (AB). Absolutely unprecedent- Blue Herons and Great Egrets; by late May JamesOrgain, F. L. Parks, Carl Perry, Dar- ed were the 207 Northern Fulmars observed there were 1034 Cattle Egrets, 836 ibises, 96 rell Peterson, Betsy Reeder, J. G. Reese, by Lee in the Gulf Streamoff Cape Hatteras, ad. and sevenimm. Little Blues, and 11 Great George Reiger, R. F. Ringler, R. P. Russell, N.C., Mar. 26; the previous Regional high Egrets. A Least Bittern was rare at Emory F. R. Scott, Jim Stasz, Steve Steimel, C. E. was nine birds. Remarkable as it may seem, Univ., near Atlanta May 2-9 (LG,HG), and Stevens,C. B. Swift, R. J. Tripician, Barry fulmars have been recorded somewhat Patterson found two Least Bittern nests near Truitt, Craig Tufts, C. R. Vaughn, D. H. regularly off North Carolina in late fall and Dublin, Ga., in late May. Also near Dublin Wallace, F. P. Ward, M. L. Wass, Steve in spring in recentyears, but as yet they have was a Wood Stork May 16 (TKP), a species Westre, Hal Wierenga, C. P. Wilds, Bill not beenseen even once in winter (December that the observer suspectsof breeding in the Williams, E. J. Willoughby, E. M. Wilson, through February)! Only small numbers of nearby area in some years, though actual Todd Wilson, T. R. Wolfe, Peter Yankevich Cory's, Greater, Sooty, and Audubon's evidence is lacking. Noteworthy along the (PYh), Peter Yaukey (PYy).--HENRY T. shearwaterswere noted on pelagic trips off coast were an ad. White Ibis at Pea I., N.C., ARMISTEAD, 28 E. Springfield Ave., the Carolinas from late April to late May, Apr. I l and an immature there the following Philadelphia, PA 19118 with the best report being two early Audu- day (RC,MC), and two Am. Flamingos near bows off Wilmington, N.C., Mar. 27 (DL). Cape I. lighthouse,S.C., May 13 (THP). A first March record for North Carolina was of the two Black-cappedPetrels off Wilming- WATERFOWL--Four Brants at South R., SOUTHERN ATLANTIC ton on Mar. 27 (DL), and other Black-capped Carteret Co., N.C., Mar. 13 constituted a COAST REGION records for that state were of seven off Ore- rare sightingfor that area (JF,RCa), and one / Harry E. LeGrand, Jr. gon Inlet Apr. 2 (DL), 14+ off Oregon Inlet in the s. part of the county at Ft. Macon S.P., May 14 (DL), and 18+ off Hatteras Inlet May Apr. 16, was rather late (SP). A cy Redhead The drought that began in the summer of 24 (RA, PD, MT etal.). Rather rare but regu- was late May 11 near Beaufort, N.C. (SG), 1980 continued through Spring 1981 in the lar in May, Leach's Storm-Petrels were re- and 200 Oldsquaws Apr. 18 seen from the southeast. Very little rain fell in April, and ported off Oregon Inlet May 14 (two birds-- Swanquarter--Ocracoke ferry across Pam- not until late May did any significantrain oc- DL) and off Hatteras Inlet May 24 (four or lico Sound, N.C., was an excellent total for cur. Unusually warm weather extendedfrom five birds--MT et al.), and quite early was a that month (WI,FI). An imm. o' Harlequin late March through much of April, with May Leach's collected by Lee off Oregon Inlet Duck at Swanquarter Mar. 2 (JF) and again being generally seasonablein temperature. Apr. 2. Also on the last-mentionedpelagic Mar. 5 (AB) provided an excellent find and During the crucial migration period from trip, Lee collected a Wilson's Storm-Petrel, was rather far removed from the ocean. Very mid-April to mid-May, a seriesof weak and the earliest specimenrecord for North Caro- rare and exceptionally late were a male and dry cold fronts passedthrough the Region al- lina. A second Regional record of the Red- four 9 King Eiders at Price's Inlet near most without notice. billed Tropicbird was of an individual photo- Charleston May 1 (JM,FH). At least five Migrants, expecially Trans-Gulf flyers, graphed 20 mi e. of Cape Lookout, N.C., White-winged Scotersat SunsetBeach, N.C., were scarcethis spring, particularly warblers May 6 (WI). Fussell noted eight Brown Peli- Apr. 19 were somewhatlate (KM,PJC), and and thrushes, with SwainsoWs and Gray- cans at Minnesott Beach, Pamlico Co., N.C., rare for the Outer Banks was a 9 Corn. Mer- cheekedthrushes being in very low numbers. Mar. 2, somewhat far "upstream" for the ganser studied carefully in Oregon Inlet Apr. Coincident with the hot weather in late species, and a White Pelican was at Shutes 11-12 (RC,MC). March and early April was an early influx of Folly I., near Charleston, S.C., Feb. 27 landbirds, and many breeding speciesthat (TMe). Single Great Cormorants were of in- HAWKS THROUGH RAILS--Several normally arrive in mid-April were detectedby terest Apr. 2 at Oregon Inlet (DL) and Apr. Swallow-tailed Kites were detected in North early April. The passerinc migration, essen- 26 at Huntington Beach S.P., S.C. (PN); Carolina n. of their breedingrange, as usual tially finished by May 20 in the Region, con- whereas Double-crested Cormorants were at this season: far inland in w. Chatham tinued well into late May, with numerous widely reported on inland lakes and ponds, County May 22 (TH,EH,JW), and coastally noteworthy sightings, even along the coast, but the peak countswere of just four indi- at Morehead City Apr. 13 (JF), Ocracoke I., from May 20 to 30. Although many reser- viduals. Anhingas might be nesting in the Apr. 25 (PV), and Core Banks near Atlantic voirs and ponds had muddy shorelines,the Fayetteville, N.C., area, where four were May I (KK). A group of 8-10 on May 13 at lack of unsettled weather apparently kept the seen at Jessup'sMill Pond May 29 (PJC), the n. edge of the breeding range along the rarer shorebirds aloft, and most inland and 11 soaring over a mill pond near New- lower Santee R., S.C. (DF), gives hope that birders recorded only the usual plovers and port, N.C., May 14 also seemedto indicate a the population in that area is holding its own, sandpipers.A fairly respectablelist of rarities breeding population there (JF). An ad. o' but this kite is a Blue-listed speciesin our was reported, but, alas, there were no first Magnificent Frigatebird was a good find at Region. The Rough-leggedHawk at Jordan state records. Cape Lookout May 17 (SP,CD et aL). Res., N.C., reported in February was seen again Mar. 14 (AB), and very rare and late WADERS--Most speciesof for Georgia was a light-phaseindividual Apr. waders are rather scarce inland 5 near Duluth (JB). The majority of the Bald (away from breeding colonies) Eagle reports came from inland North Caro- in spring. Thus, of interest lina (Beaverdam Res., residential Raleigh, were a Little Blue Heron flying Aberdeen, and Hoffman). PeregrineFalcons, over the field during an Atlanta all singleindividuals, were noted coastallyat Braves baseball game May 27 Pea I., Mar. 11 (MCr,SG), c. Carteret Coun- (DG,HG, LG); single Great ty Apr. 18 & 22, (JFetal.), Oregon Inlet Apr. Egrets in n.e. Guilford County, 30 (WI); and inland in downtown Atlanta in N.C., and at nearby Burlington early March (DP), at nearby Chattahoochee Apr. I1 & 14 (AB); three to R., Mar. 9 (JSt), and n.w. Pender County, four Snowy Egrets at Fayet- N.C., May 15 (RD). Merlin reports at all teville Apr. 22 - May 1 (PJC); a seasons(except summer, of course)have been Louisiana Heron at Eufaula increasingsteadily in the Region for 5 years, N.W.R., Ga., Apr. 2 (PB); and and this spring 5 inland sightings were an ad. Black-crowned Night made--in Georgia near Duluth Mar. 9 (JP), Heron at Kerr Scott Res., at Lawrenceville Mar. 31 (SB), and at Wilkes Co., N.C., May 22 Augusta Apr. 19 (AW,VW), and in North (TH). A large heron roost was Carolina near Durham Apr. 26 (MS,MD) and

812 American Birds, September1981 Newport Apr 25-26 (JF) glon (and secondin 2 years) of Buff-breasted nestingthis spring "out of range" at Moore's The Sandhill Crane flight over Atlanta was Sandpiper was a bird near Duluth Apr. 11 Landing, n.e. of Charleston(ftde PN), the limited mainly to the Mar. 1-9 period, with (FM). only Coastal Plain breeding locale in the 1000+ birds noted (fide TM). The cranethat Region. A Corn. Raven was noted near wintered at Dublin was joined by another JAEGERS THROUGH TERNS--From Sunset, n. Pickens Co., S.C., May 3 (HL), Mar. 6, and eight more were at a nearby Apr. 18 to May 11, 36 jaegerswere observed the speciesis not known to nest presentlyin locale on that date (TKP); three were late from shore in Carteret County (JF et al.); the state and the bird was likely a post- near Griffin, Ga., Apr. 28 (JS). The North none was closeenough for conclusiveidenti- breeder or juvenile from North Carolina A CarolinaBig Day effort of Fussell,Tove, and fication, but most werebelieved to have been Red-breasted Nuthatch was late at Atlanta R Davis May 4 terminatedat Cedar I., where Pomarines. Lee saw two Pomarines off Ore- May 10 (JCa), and a Short-billed Marsh 20 Black Rails were heard. gon Inlet Mar. 26, and one was noted at Pine Wren was rare for that city May 16 (PM, Knoll Shores,N.C., Mar. 15 (RJH). The only TM). In this Region, House Wrens are gener- SHOREBIRDS--A Black-necked Stilt at definite Parasitic Jaeger was off Cape Look- ally restricted to the Piedmont as breeders, Sunset Beach, N.C., Apr. 19 (KM,PJC) was out May 6 (WI). Singleimm. GlaucousGulls thus, a singingbird in the upper Coastal Plain a rare find for that area, and a count of 14 at were notable at Newport, N.C., Mar. 6 (JF, at Fayetteville May 22 (HR, PJC) was of in- North R. marsh, Carteret Co., N.C., May 11 AB), at Huntington Beach S.P., Apr. 26 terest. A Swainsoh'sThrush at Raleigh was (SG) was quite high. Good totals of Am. (PN), and at CumberlandI., Ga., at least to early Apr. 10 (GW), whereasa Gray-cheeked Avocets were 25 at the Jekyll I., Ga., May 15 (AAt); and a Lesser Black-backed Thrushwas very rare in springalong the coast causewayMar. 6, the samenumber Mar. 7-8 Gull was at Cape Hatteras Mar. 10 at Cape Lookout May 23 (JF,RJH). Early at the s. end of that island (DB,PB), and 106 (MCr,SG). Inland Laughing Gulls were Veeries were near Chapel Hill, N.C., Apr 9 at Pea I., Apr. 12 (RC et al.). Extremelyrare found in North Carolina at Roanoke Rapids (JPay) and at Raleigh Apr. 13 (GW), but 40 inland were two Wilson's Plovers at a pond Apr. 3 (TH) and Raleigh May 2 (JF et al.), Water Pipits near CharlestonMay 7 (PN) set near Columbia, S.C., Apr. 25 (JiB,LG1, and one of the few Regionalspring records of a late departure date for that city. An excep- JPaq), but disappointingly,the only inland the Franklin's Gull was of an individual on L. tional spring report for the Coastal Plain, report of Am. Golden Ploverswas of groups Lanier in n. Georgia Apr. 28 (JPag,BM). The and one of just a few at this seasonfor South of nine and five near Duluth Mar. 21 (PB). scarcityof unsettledweather in April and Carolina, was of a carefully studiedPhiladel- Scatteredreports of Upland Sandpiperswere May must have allowed migrating terns to phia Vireo in I'On Swamp May 17 (SC,PN) received, but totals were very small this pass high over inland lakes, and I received Nearly as rare wasa Warbling Vireo at Atlan- spring. The probable Spotted Redshank at only two inland reports each for Common, ta Apr. 13-24 (JG et al.). Huntington Beach S.P., S.C., observed in Caspian, and Black terns, and none for For- February, was noted again Apr. 26 (PN). ster's. The best inland tern sighting was of WARBLERS--Although all of the non-en- [Other Charleston birders have expressed two Leasts at Augusta May 16 (AW,VW). dangered species of eastern warblers but some doubts about the bird, and the apparent Five Roseate Terns at Oregon Inlet Apr. 12 Mourning were reported, numberswere very lack of enthusiasmof local birders in tracking (RC et al.) were reported with fair details, low, and most observershad a disappointing down the bird and confirming it as a Spotted whereas no details accompanied a report at spring of "warblering". There were three Redshank leaves me wondering about its true Huntington BeachApr. 26. [As I have never sightings of Swainson's Warblers from the ldentity.--HL] seen a Roseate in this Region in 16 years of Atlanta area, with an individual near Duluth The Raleighspring count tallied 141 Soli- birding, I worry about sightingslacking full Apr. 8 (SB) being quite early. A Swainson's tary SandpipersMay 2 (fide RJH), and al- details.--HL] Fortunately, an Arctic Tern near Chapel Hill May 1 (MT,SG) wasrare for ways noteworthyinland Willets were near off Charleston May 3 (PN,GM et al.) was that city, as were two o' Golden-winged Fayetteville May 5 (PJC) and in e. Jones well-described; this is the second occurrence Warblers at FayettevilleApr. 26 (PJC,RO) County, N.C., May 15 (two birds--JF). The reported for South Carolina. A TennesseeWarbler, in winter plumage,was only sighting of Wilson's Phalaropes was carefully describedby Nugent, Compton et most unusual: three were flushed from the CUCKOOS THROUGH FLYCATCH- al. at Fairlawn Plantation near Charleston ocean off CharlestonMay 3 (PN et al.). Nor- ERS-In the s. portion of Francis Marion Mar. 22; could the bird have overwintered9 thern Phalaropeseluded pelagic birders off N.F. near Charleston were an early Yellow- Also exceedinglyrare, but at leastseasonable, North Carolina, but both trips off Charleston billed Cuckoo Mar. 22 (WB et al.) and three were single Tennesseese. of their migration (Apr. 26 and May 3) notedthem (DF,PN et calling Black-billed Cuckoos, quite rare near range near Rockingham, N.C., May 8 & 21 al ), and onshorewere six at BodieI., N.C., the coastin spring, May 9-11 (PN). The latest (DM). Another warbler rare over most of the May 18 (CW) and one at Ft. Macon May 24 Short-cared Owl report from Jordan Res., Region in spring, the Nashville, was observed (JF). RedPhalaropes were found on 4 pelagic N.C., where 20+ wintered, was Apr. 6 (RD), near Charleston May 9 (PN et al.) and at trips: 378 off Oregon Inlet Mar. 26 (DL), 118 and notable for n. Georgia was one found in Raleigh May 22 (GW). Noteworthy along the out of the same inlet Apr. 2 (DL), an un- weakened condition near Marietta Mar. 30 coast at this season were single Magnolia specified number off Charleston Apr. 26 (fide FM). Unique for the Region were three Warblers near Charleston May 9 (PN) and (DF), and 15 off CharlestonMay 3 (PN et calling Saw-whet Owls in I'On Swamp n.e. of nearWilmington May 30 (JSn), as well as two al) A Corn. Snipewas very late at Dublin CharlestonMay 17 (SC,PN). The owls were BlackburnJan Warblers at Cape Lookout May 29 (TKP), and unusualinland in spring in a densestand of young pines and respond- May 23 (JF,RJH) and another the next day was a Short-billed Dowitcher at Fayetteville ed to owl tapes; however, the birds were not up the coast at Kitty Hawk (HW,BL). Rare Apr. 22-29 (PJC). Good seasonaltotals of seen.Extremely early was a Chimney Swift at for the North Carolina sandhillswas a Bay- Long-billedDowitchers were 20 at Bodie I., Klawah I., S.C., Mar. 14 (SC). This season's breastedWarbler at L. Surf near Vass May 3 Apr. 17 (AB) and 18 at SwanquarterMar. 2 Scissor-tailedFlycatcher, near Ellerbe, N.C., (THo), and the 60 Blackpoll Warblers in I'On (JF). White-rumpedSandpipers were detec- May 27, was seen by an experienced and Swamp May 9 (PN et al.) were part of a truly ted inland at 4 locales, with the best counts hard-working birder (DM)! The lesscommon outstanding wave of migrants rarely seen in being eight at Dublin May 23 (TKP) and Empidonax flycatchers passed through or spring near the coast. Outside of the known sevenat AugustaMay 17(AW,VW). Pectoral around the Region almost unnoticed, with a breeding range were Louisiana Water- Sandpiperswere in much higher-than-usual singing Alder in Alamance County, N.C., thrushesin extreme w. Carteret County Apr numbersinland, with severalhundred in the May 9 (AB) and a silentLeast at RaleighMay 17 (JF) and in s. Pender County, N.C., May Dublin area Mar. 28 (G.O.S.), 90 in the 2 (JC,DT) beingthe only onesreported. Simi- 13 (RD). It is hoped a follow-up search of Clemson, S.C., area Mar. 21 (HL,AA), 54 at larly, the only sighting of Olive-sided Fly- these birds can be made in June to assure that North R., near Beaufort Apr. 8 (JF), and 41 catcher was just s. of Atlanta May 17 (RG). they were not migrants. The narrow spring e of Durham, N.C., Mar. 18 (BW,MW, migration route of the Connecticut Warbler JPay). A CurlewSandpiper at BodieI., Apr. SWALLOWS THROUGH VIREOS--At passesright through Atlanta, and not surpris- 11 provided the earliestspring record for the Beaverdam Res., n. of Raleigh, were several ingly, all records for the seasonwere from Region,and just the secondfor the monthof early Tree Swallows Mar. 4 (BW, MW, this area: one near Fairburn May 16 (DeM), April (RC,MB,MC,KH). A good find was a JPay), and the same birders saw 1800 one along the ChattahoocheeR., May 10 and Stilt Sandpiper at Augusta Apr. ll-May 2 swallows there May 20, of which 45% (810) three there May 17 (TM). Additional warb- (AW), and the third springrecord for the Re- were Banks. Cliff Swallows were again lers very unusual for the coast at this season

Volume 35, Number 5 813 were a Wilson's near Charleston Apr. 18 May 25 at Pendergrass(PB,TM). Fussellcon- Jeff Beacham (JeB), Jimmy Beatty (JIB), (GM,PN) and a Canada at Cape Lookout ducted an exhaustive census of wintering Jean Bevis,Charles Blake, Mike Boatwright, May 23 (JF, RJH), providing a first record Henslow's Sparrow along Millis Road in w. Walter Borden, Donna Brisse,Patrick Brisse, for heavily-birded Carteret County. Carteret Co., with a final tally of 15 birds Allen Bryan, Rick Carraway (RCa), J.H. (made over severaltrips in March). In fact, Carter III, Jack Carusos (JCa), Michelle his dog flushed seven birds in 20 minutes Cawthorn, Ray Chandler, Start & Pat Chap- BLACKBIRDS THROUGH LONG- Mar. 25! The Le Conte's Sparrow noted dur- man (S&PC), Ruth & Mosely Chesnutt SPURS--The 9 Yellow-headed Blackbird ing the winter near Pendleton, S.C., was (R&MC), Steve Compton, John Connors, that wintered in Decatur, Ga., was last re- found again Mar. 21 (HL,AA), and another Mark Crotteau (MCr), P.J. Crutchfield, ported Mar. 16 (fide TM). Severalbirds seen was seen at nearby Townville Mar. 8 (HL, Chip Davis, Ricky Davis, Paul DuMont, at feedersin February (and previously report- AA,JeB). Clay-colored Sparrow is consid- Martha Dunham, Dennis Forsythe, John ed) lingered into spring: the W. Tanager at ered "hypothetical" in spring in North Caro- Fussell, Hugh Garrett, Liz Garrett, S.A. Fayetteville until early April (R&MC,PJC), lina; a report of two near FayettevilleMay 18 Gauthreaux, Georgia Ornithological Society, the Summer Tanager in the same city into lacked details, so the status remains un- David Glass, Lex Glover (LGI), SteveGraves, early March (R&MC), and the Lazuli Bunting changed. Rare for the coast in spring were Roger Green, Joe Greenberg, R.J. Hader, at Westminster, S.C., to Mar. 7+ (SAG, HL single White-crowned Sparrows at Bull's I., Elizabeth Haggerty, Tom Haggerty, Sara et aL). Casual in the Piedmont province was S.C., May 9 (SC,GM) and at Harker's I., Hall, Carol & Dan Hamilton, Kirk Havens, an ad. c• Painted Bunting at Raleigh Apr. 27 N.C., May 10 (SP). The usual handful of Fred Horlbeck, Tom Howard (THo), Fran (JM). Two Dickcisselswere noted near Du- Lincoln's Sparrows was noted, all from the Irvin, Wayne Irvin, Kevin Kacer, Dave Lee, luth Apr. 25 (S&PC) and again the next day Piedmont, with one near Pendleton Mar. 7 Harry LeGrand, Bruce Lord, Bob Manns, (m.ob.), but there was no indication whether (HL), two near Atlanta Apr. 26 and May 3 Kevin Mason, Frank McCamey, Dennie Mc- the birds were on territory. At Jordan Res., (PM, TM), and one banded at Hillsborough, Clure (DeM), John McGrady, Douglas Mc- where breeding occurred last summer, a male N.C., Apr. 13 (CB). Completely unexpected Nair, Ted Metcalf (TMe), Gardner Miller, was singing Apr. 6 (RD) but was not for the month of May was a 9 Lapland Long- Peggy Moore, Terry Moore, Jim Mulhol- reloc.•.ted on several later dates. The latest spur May 9 at the Rockingham-Hamlet, land, Perry Nugent, RussellOates, Anne Ol- Evening Grosbeak sighting was May 17 at N.C., airport (DM). This is the latest record sen, Jon Paget (JPag), John Paquet (JPaq), Chapel Hill (C&DH), and locally rare was a for the Region by nearly 3 weeks. T.H. Parker, Dick Parks, T.K. Patterson, c• House Finch near Ellerbe, N.C., Mar. 10 Johnnie Payne (JPay), Jeff Petit, Skip (JHC). Highly unusual for the spring season Prange, Henry Rankin, Bob Rayround, Mike were singleCommon Redpolls, both well-de- CORRIGENDUM--The Smith's Long- Schultz, John Sneeden (JSn), Jay Stolar scribed feeder birds, at Monroe, N.C., Mar. spur specimen at the North Carolina State (JSt), John Swiderski, Don Tarbet, Bill Ter- 11-15 (AO) and at Sandy Springs, Ga., Mar. Museum (/lB 35:292) was not taken by Dave rell, Mike Tove, Peter Vankevitch,Bill Wag- 21 (BR,BT). A c• Lark Bunting in breeding Lee, as reported; the identity of the collector ner, Margaret Wagner, Anne Waters, Vernon plumage at a feeder in Conyers, Ga., in mid- is not known. Waters, Gail Whitehurst, Claudia Wilds, Joe May (SH) provided one of just a few records Williams, Herb Wilson.--HARRY E. Le- for that state, whereas the latest-ever Savan- OBSERVERS•Robert Ake, Anselm At- GRAND, JR., Department of Zoology, nah Sparrow for Georgia was an individual kins (AAt), Alan Avakian, Susan Bagwell, Clemson University, Clemson, S.C. 29631.

FLORIDA REGION Alert phone number (305-644-0190)was dial- miles to the south on the Gulf Coast at Casey ed, the responserepeated was, "No birds this Key near Venice (south of Sarasota) ex- /Herbert W. Kale II week!" Even the meccaof spring bird watch- periencedthis same fallout. On the afternoon ing--Ft. DeSoto Park on Mullet Key--was and evening of May 12, they observed hun- relatively disappointing, although migrants dreds of warblers flying in from the Gulf and did trickle through. landing in shrubbery and trees, and recorded The unusually fair weather and the driest Out of 14 cold fronts that hit the state (5 in their first spring captures of Bay-breasted spring in a decadecombined to make spring March, 5 in April, 4 in May), only four and Magnolia warblers and thrushes. With 1981the most uneventfulmigration in memo- (March 4-5, 22-23, 30-31, and May 20-21) migrantstrickling through, they felt that they ry. When Florida Audubon's new Rare Bird were accompaniedby rain, most of which fell had their best spring in 4 years of banding at in the panhandle and the this site (people who bird with mist nets see CENTRAL SOUTHERN REGION northern peninsula. The things from another perspective!) -TALLAHASSEE cold front of May 11-12, Lake Okeechobee dropped to 10.8 feet DIVISION unaccompaniedby rain, above mean sea level, its lowest level since the was the only one asso- severe drought of 1971. Wood Storks at the ciated with a real large South Florida colonies at Corkscrew precipitation of birds. and Everglades Nat'l Park abandoned their Jim Stevenson at St. nests, as did Everglade Kites at Lake Okee- George Island on both chobeeand ConservationArea 3A. The rainy days recorded good season normally begins in late May or June numbers of Veeries, and although occasional thundershowers Swainson's and Gray- have occurred along the coast, the interior of cheeked thrushes, and the southern half of the peninsula--the main rare Magnolia and Bay- aquifer rechargeareas and the chief sourceof breasted warblers, but Lake Okeechobee's waters--remain in only one each of the drought condition. As I sit here writing in Ju- unusually abundant ly, the dry grass, the acrid smell of burning Ovenbird, and Cape pinelands and muck, and the alarming drop May and Blackpoll of Lake Okeechobee--now below 10 feet-- warblers, suggesting suggest trouble ahead unless a wet tropical that trans-Gulf species storm hits the state this summer. Of the ma- that usually migrate far- jor land massesin the world located at these ther to the west were in- latitudes, Florida is the only one that is not a volved. desert, but we have so efficiently drained the Bird banders Stan and state that this unique situation may yet come Annette Stedman, many undone.

814 American Birds, September1981 The Florida Region report coversthat part end of the period only about 400 active nests (HS, *T T ) were the latest for the state Four of Florida east of the Apalachlcola River and of Wood Storks remained in the Corkscrew Snowy Plovers on a huge new spoil island in is written by five editors: Lyn S. and Brooks Swamp colony and with the Big Cypressand n. Hillsborough Bay raised hopesof possible H Atherton--Fall Migration; Henry M. Ste- Lake Okeechobee marshes tinder dry, none nesting there (RP). As people and their pets venson-Winter Season; H. Kale--Spring of these were expectedto fledge any young continue to increase,safe nestinghabitat for Migration; and we now welcome Richard T. (R. Bantz). Meanwhile the coastalcolonies of Killdeer decreases.Nesting on gravel roofs is Paul, Manager/Biologistof National Audu- c. Florida, although somewhat smaller than occurring more frequently in Florida, but, bon's Tampa Bay Sanctuaries(1020-82nd St. in previous years, were producing young. A unlike rooftop nestingLeast Terns who bring S , Tampa, FL 33619) as the new editor of the pink-colored White Ibis in a flock of several food to their young, Killdeer chicks must Nesting Season,replacing John Edscornwho hundred white birds at Alafia Banks in Tam- leave the roof soonafter hatching--a drop of is retiring after severalyears editing first the pa Bay Mar. 7 (RP) must have been one of 30-40 feet or more. On Apr. 29 a kindergar- fall migration report and then the summer the faded Scarlet X White hybrids from ten class in Lake Placid was thrilled to watch season report. Miami's Greynolds P. colony. Fulvous a Killdeer successfullylead her young, two by Whistling Ducks, now abundant in the two, off the roof and hustle them off to a ABBREVIATIONS--C.S.M.: Clear Everglades, are still rare in Pinellas County, nearby citrus grove (fide FL). The Fred Bar- SpringPhosphate Mine; D.T.: Dry Tortugas; henceone each at the Bayway Mar. 17-Apr. 4 rys, strandedon U.S. 1 on Bahia Honda Key E N.P.: EvergladesNat'l Park; F.O.S.: Fla. and the Toytown Landfill Mar. 24-Apr. 1 shortly after the explosionon the Seven-Mfie Ornithol. Society; F.S.M.: Florida State (LA) were of interest. Two Green-winged Bridge Mar. 2, noticed a small plover stand- Mus.; N. Pen.: Northern Peninsula; S. Pen.: Teal, near St. Marks Light May 11 (FS) were ing nearbyon a rock about 10 ft from shore SouthernPeninsula; S.G.I.: St. George I.; very late, as was an Am. Wigcon at L. It turned out to be Florida's fifth (lst spring) T T.: Tall Timbers ResearchStation; *: spe- Jackson May30 (GM). A Corn. Goldeneye at record of Mountain Plover. Rare Am cimen. S.G.I., Apr. 23 (JS) was one of the latest in Golden Plovers were near St. Marks Light the Tally Div. Mar. 21 (JS & P Sandberg), near St. James, LOONS THROUGH FRIGATEBIRDS-- From 1978 through 1980 Everglade Kite Franklin Co., Mar. 22 (HS), Alligator Pt, A Red-throated Loon at S.G.I., Apr. 15 (M. nesting in Lake Okeechobeeand Conserva- May 1 (HS & CW) and five at a sodfarm in n Gray, S. Artery, K. Willis), the last of many tion Area 3 was hearteninglysuccessful, with JacksonvilleMay 2 (JW). Upland Sandpipers that wintered in the n. Gulf, was a day short 100-200 young produced each season. The were reported from Ft. DeSoto P., Mar of establishingthe latest date for the Talla- 1980-81 winter census revealed almost 700 20-27 (LA), n. Jacksonville May 2 (JW) and hasseeDivision (hereafter, Tally Div.). Three kites(PS) but the droughtthis year resultedin D.T., May 13 (CK & MW) and May 18 of five Eared Grebesin summerplumage at wholesale abandonment of nests and disper- (H&WD, PL, DI). Inland records of Red the C.S.M., 5 mi s.c. of Bartow, Apr. 24) CG sal of kites in search of habitat with ample. Knot are rare, one at C.S.M., Apr. 24 was the & RD) were still there May 23 (GG, BC, PF, snails. One was found shot in Levy County in first for Polk County (CG). White-rumped RD). A Sooty Shearwater 20 mi e. of Cape April (fide DM). After an absenceof 2 years, Sandpipers were reported Apr. 25-June 3 Canaveral Apr. 12 (J J) was the earliest for a pair begannesting in the St. John's Res., w. from the D.T. to St. Marks, including inland the N. Pen., while one was found moribund of Vero Beach in mid-April but by mid-May records of one at Lake Kanapaha P., Ala- on the beach 3 mi s. of Vero Beach May 25 the marshwas dry and barren of snails(HK). chua Co., May 16 (BM) and 20 at C.S M, (HK, *F.S.M.). Two Audubon's Shearwaters Similarly, another pair returned Mar. 2 to the May 23 (PF, BC, CG), and an unusual high were between Marathon and the D.T., May 2 Savannas Recreation area s. of Ft. Pierce of 200+ in Rookery Bay Nat'l Estuary Sanc- (PS, DF, JD) and one was off Ponce de Leon where it remained without nesting through tuary May 10-20 (TB & VB). A rare Balrd's Inlet May 16 (PS et al.). The annual spring the spring (H&WD). We await with trepida- Sandpiper was at the Lakeland SewagePonds search for the rare Black-capped Petrel in the tion this winter's census(if there is one--Sec- Mar. 24-25 (E. Slater, R. Coleman, H. Her- Atlantic off Ponce Inlet May 16, found one retary Watt has already cut out most of the bert), and a rare Buff-breastedSandpiper ap- about 75 mi out on the e. edge of the Gulf endangeredspecies budget!). peared at St. Marks Light Apr. 25 (GG & stream. Three Wilson's Storm-Petrels also A Cooper's Hawk in the Avon P. Bombing F.O.S.). circledthe boat (PS et al.), and three were 40 Range May 24 (CG) suggestedpossible breed- Just as phosphatestrip mining operations ml e. of Cape Canaveral Apr. 14 (JJ). An ing there. A movement of hawks over Snipe can destroy natural wetlands, they also create lmm. White-tailed (= Yellow-billed) Tropic- Pt., in the Lower Keys Apr. 19 included 17 shallow lakes and mud flats in upland areas bird sitting on the water in Banana Cr., Mer- Sharp-shinneds, two Red-taileds and two that are attractive to shorebirds and water- ritt Island N.W.R., Apr. 8 (R. Lee, ph. to Marsh Hawks (MB & PB). I inadvertently fowl, hence,birds rarely seenin many inland T T.) was a rarity there. Several were spo- omitted from last year's spring migration re- Florida locations are now becoming common radically at D.T., Apr. 6 (fide FTH), May 18 port a record of two Swainson's Hawks, one sights on mined lands. American Avocets (H&WD, PL, DI). Possiblyone of thosetwo of each color phase, circling and calling over now winter near Bartow with up to 107 seen White Pelicansthat wintered in Key West was AlexanderSprings, Ocala Nat'l Forest, Lake at the C.S.M., Apr. 24 (CG & RD), where still on Stock I., May 5 (BC). Three (one Co., Mar. 25, 1980 &(D.C. Bryan). A dark- some remained until May 20 (K. Rousch) adult, two immature) Blue-faced(= Masked) phase Short-tailed Hawk at this same loca- Seven avocets were rarities at Wakulla Beach BoobiesApr. 5 off S.G.I. (RMC & CE) were tion May 17 this year (RMC & CE) suggested May 11 (FS). A Black-necked Stilt at the the earliest in the Tally Div., for this rarity of a possiblenew locality to look for this rare Hickory Mound Impoundment, Taylor Co, the upper Gulf. Up to five were on Middle Florida hawk. Spring sightingsof Peregrine Mar. 27 (JC) was the earliest for the Tally Key, D.T., May 2-3 with a Brown Booby Falconsare rare, henceone buzzinggulls and Div. Others appearedApr. 18 at Cedar Key there May 3 (PS et al.). Brown Boobiesusual- shorebirds at Alafia Bank Apr. 11 (RP), one (BM) and St. Marks Light (RMC, GG et al ). ly occur between Key West and D.T., but at St. Marks Light Apr. 23 (JS) and one at More than 200 were reported nesting at even the Rebecca Shoals roost was empty D.T., May 3-5 (BC, PS et al.) were of inter- C.S.M. in April and May (CG, BC, PF) and during visits there this spring. A moribund est. Two Merlins were at the Pinellas Bayway several pairs were probably nestingat the Oc- lmm. Brown Booby came ashore in Ft. Pierce Mar. 22 (LA), four at Ft. DeSoto Apr. 18 (B. cidental Chemical Company site in Hamilton May 3 (HK, *F.S.M.). Several late Gannets Neville, RT), and four at D.T., May 2-4 (PS County (DM). Only two N. Phalaropes were were reported, three 12 mi e. of Cape et al.). An Am. Kestrel was late at D.T., May reported--one far off Ponce Inlet May 16 Canaveral May 1 (J J), one sitting on the 5 (BC) but one on Big Pine Key May 31 (PS) (H&WD et al.), one at C.S.M., May 18 (CG, water just inside the n. jetty of Ponce Inlet was the latest for the Lower Keys. BC), while an unidentified phalarope fed in May 16 (HK & PS) and three at Alligator Pt., the saltponds at Key West May 13 (FH, CK, May 30 (CW). One of several Great Cor- SHOREBIRDS THROUGH TERNS-- MW). The only jaegers for the period were morants that winter in Florida was seen Mar. American Oystercatchers rarely occur in S. three casualties--two injured Pomarines in 28 flying N off Ponce Inlet (TR). An ad. cr Florida. One that wintered at Black Point P., Broward County in early May (B. Hum- Magnificent Frigatebird at Alligator Pt., May in s. Dade County was still there Apr. 7 (RT). phreys) and one moribund Pomarine n of 14 (GG) was rare so early on the upper Gulf Two Piping Plovers at Ft. DeSoto P., May 24 Vero Beach May 19 (HK, *F.S.M.). A Glau- coast. (PF) were the latest in the N. Pen., and one at cous Gull on Longboat Key Mar. 2 (R&MS) St. Marks Light May 1l-June 4 (FS, GG, HS) may have been the sameone seena week later STORKS THROUGH HAWKS--By the and one collected at Alligator Pt., June 4 at Toytown Landfill (LA, ph. to T.T.), where

Volume35, Number 5 815 on Mar 24, a "probable" GlaucousX Herr- over into the peninsula this spring with •t was actively feeding •n short grass on Pi- lng Gull hybrid was photographed sightingsas far s. as Brooker Creek P., Hills- geon Key May 5. W•th the recent formation (LA--details to be publ.) Another Glaucous borough Co., where one was seenMar. 8 (LH of the F.O.S.'s Rare Bird Records Committee appearedat Ponce Inlet Mar. 28 (CR). An et al.), Alligator Pt., Apr. 26 (HK, DM), (Maggie Bowman, Secretary)this observation lmm !ilaek-leggedl•ittiwake, extremelyrare Lake JacksonMay 9 (HS), and S.G.I., May will be turned over to it and, if accepted,will anywhere in the Gulf of Mexico, was at 13 (JS)--the latest for the entire state. representthe third Florida record for the spe- Longboat Key, Sarasota,Apr. 25 (R&MS), cies. for the latest date for the S. Pen. A tern brief- MIMIDS THROUGH WAXWINGS--A According to R. Thorn, early March ly glimpsedby many as it rapidly flew by the singing Gray Catbird in s. Leon County May brought "absolutely incredible flocks" of boat off Ponce Inlet May 16 set off such a 24 (RMC, CE et al.) could have been on Yellow-rumped Warblers to the Miami area d•scussion about its possible identifica- breeding territory. The fourth Florida record Could these have been spillovers from the s tion-it either was or was not an Arctic of SageThrasher occurredat Hickory Mound Florida invasion in February mentioned by Tern--that I am going to leave it at that. Lake Mar. 6 (JC) and was subsequentlypho- Henry Stevensonin his winter report, or were tographed (RM & CE) and seen by re.ohs. they migrants from farther s.? A very late CUCKOOS THROUGH SWIFTS--Man- Whether this is the same bird that appeared Yellow-rumped was singing n. of Jackson- grove Cuckoos can be expected anywhere earlier this year at Ft. Pickens near Pensacola ville May 2 (J. Cocke). A Yellow-throated dense mangrovesexist along both coasts of is unknown. The cold front of May 11-12 Warbler at Ft. DeSoto May 17 (PF, PT) may Florida, although they remain rare n. of the brought with it to S.G.I., 116 Swainson's have beena late migrant, althoughthe species Keys on the Atlantic and the Thousand Is- Thrushes, 22 Gray-cheekeds and 41 Veeries breeds about 30 mi to the n. and e. All the lands on the Gulf. Hence, 23 on the Long Ar- (JS). A Golden-crowned Kinglet at Ft. De previous Florida records of the Sycamore semcker Key in Biscayne Bay May 1 (R. Soto P., Mar. 17 (LA) was a rarity so far s. in Warbler--the white-lored race of the Yellow- Hammer) was noteworthy.At least one was Florida. throated Warbler, Dendroica dominica albt- at Ft DeSoto P., Apr. 17-May 19 (CG, SI, 1ora, from the Mississippivalley, have been LA) Three Short-earedOwls that wintered VIREOS AND WARBLERS--A Yellow- fall migrants, hence a close study of one at on Paynes' Prairie, Alachua Co., were last throated Vireo at T.T., Mar. 4 (HS) was the the bird fountain on Garden Key, D.T., May seenMar. 16 (JH, BM). Six Chimney Swifts earliest for the state, although one at Winter 3 (JD, DF) was newsworthy. Uncommon in TallahasseeMar. 22 (GM) were very early, Park, reported as "Mar. 3-5, exact date not Chestnut-sideds were at No Name Key May 5 and at Alligator Pt., small groups of swifts known" (Betty King) may hold that record. (MB), and Ft. DeSoto P., May 9 (D. Good- were noted flying in a definite N migration on As usual, the Black-whiskered Vireo ap- win, J. Moore--latest for the N. Pen.), and Apr 25 (HS, F.O.S.). peared far n. of its breeding range with one near Alligator Pt., May 13 (LA, BP, BK) one seenon S.G.I., May 4 (HS). The earliest Red- of the latest for the Tally Div. Following the EXOTICS--The tremendous traffic of pet- eyed Vireo for the state arrived at Greynolds May 11-12 cold front, Bay-breastedswere trade birds coming through the Port of P., Miami, Mar. 6 and proceeded to sing surprisinglywidespread with 122 and 43 on Miami, the many privately-owned caged about this feat for the next 2 days (JK). Pro- S.G.I., May 11 and 12, respectively;23 at Ft birds in the state, and the mild climate, all thonotary Warblers were extremely late at Ft. DeSoto P., May 14, while others were seen combine to insure the survival, if not feral DeSoto P., May 2 (PF), and at S.G.I., May there May 7-19 (LA, BK, BP)--the latter date breeding,of a wide variety of exoticspecies in 11 (JS), in both casessetting latest records for being the latest for the N. Pen., and two were Florida. Even so, a Rose-ringed Parakeet on migrants in the N. Pen., and Tally Div., re- at D.T., May 18 (H&WD, PL, DI). A Louisi- Sandy Key, far out in Florida Bay Mar. 28 spectively. Swainson's Warblers were wide- ana Waterthrush, rare in the Lower Keys, was a surprise(O. Bass).A thriving colony of spread with the earliest for the state seenon visited a birdbath in Key West Mar. 17-19 Ringed Turtle Doves has lived for years in Loop Rd., E.N.P., Mar. 7 (MW). Others (FH). Another rarity was a KentuckyWarb- downtown St. Petersburg. This favorite cage were at Matheson Hammock Mar. 24-31 ler at D.T., May 13 (CK & MW), the latest bird was reported at 5 other locations this (CK), Beer Can I., Mar. 29 (R&MS), 12 atFt. for the Lower Keys. Connecticut Warblers spring--four regularly frequented a yard in DeSoto P., Mar. 27-Apr. 25 (LA, R. Hop- were widespread, with ten reports May 3-24 Cutler Ridge s. of Miami (D. Gillespie), one kins, m.obs.) while F.O.S. participants lis- from all over the Region. The Wilson's in Florida City Apr. 7 (L. McDonald), one in tened to several males singing in dense breed- Warbler that wintered in Key West was last Orlando Apr. 9 and several days thereafter ing habitat in the Apalachicola Nat'l Forest seen there Mar. 17 (FH) and one was on (DWF), two in Key West May 14 (FH), and Apr. 25. A singingbird n. of White Springs, S.G.I., Apr. 23 (JS). one on Siesta Key May 21 (L. Jakubowicz). Hamilton Co., May 30 (DM) was also pro- All are suspectedto be local escapesor de- bably on territory. The earliest date for BLACKBIRDS THROUGH FINCHES-- hberate releases.A small feral population of Worm-eating Warbler in the N. Pen. was set The only Yellow-headedBlackbirds reported Brazdian Cardinals (prob. Red-crested, by two birds at Ft. DeSoto P., Mar. 23 (LA, this spring were eight on S.G.I., May 3 (J Paroaria coronata) is reported successfully DJD). On Apr. 18, PF et al., counted 28 Ward). An Orchard Oriole in full song on breedingin Maitland (fide M. Kuntz). Worm-eatings at this site along with a flurry S.G.I., May 21 was gonewhen checkeda few of other West Indies migrants. A Blue- days later (HS & FS). Two cy N. (Bullock's) FLYCATCHERS THROUGH NUTHAT- winged Warbler, rare on S.G.I., was there Orioles visited a feeder in Vero Beach Mar CHES-The fourth record (first in spring) of Apr. 23 (JS). The only hybrid warbler 10-11 (G. Saunders).All the Brewer'sBlack- the Ash-throated Flycatcher for the state was reported was a Lawrence's at St. Marks birds that wintered in Florida must have ga- of one observed on S.G.I., Apr. 18 (RMC, N.W.R., Apr. 27 (J. Brooks, C. thered at Mayo, Lafayette Co., prior to mov- GG, T. Scbulenburg).A Yellow-bellied Fly- Plockelman). The first nesting record of the ing W, where an unprecedented500 were seen catcherheard calling on the s. campusof Fla. N. Parula on S.G.I. was found May 21 (HS). Mar. 7. We hope the Brown-headedCowbird Jr College in JacksonvilleApr. 28 (JW), and A high count of 68 Magnolias at S.G.I., May at Ft. DeSoto May 2 (LH et al.) was only the a Least Flycatcher on S.G.I., Apr. 29 (JS, 12 (JS) must have been a colorful sight. latest migrant in the N. Pen., but they now CW) were rare spring finds. Eight Rough- Usually Cape May, Black-throated Blue, breed in peninsular Florida and seem to be w•nged Swallows at C.S.M., May 23 possibly Blackpoll and Am. Redstarts are the most moving s. One of Florida's "regular acciden- may have beennesting (PF, CG, BC)--if not, abundant spring migrants but these species tals," a cy W. Tanager appeared in s. Dade they were the latest migrants for the N. Pen. were comparatively scarce this spring, County Apr. 15 (L. McDonald). If not a win- A Chff Swallow at Toytown Landfill Mar. although J. Johnson reported "large tering individual, a Rose-breastedGrosbeak 19-23 (LA, SI, DJD) was the earliest for the numbers" of all four speciesat sea 20 mi s.e. in TallahasseeApr. 3 (FS) was the earliestfor N Pen. A Purple Martin roost at the of Cape Canaveral May 1. the Tally Div., as was a Blue Grosbeak 5 ml Homeland Industries Mine near Bartow con- One of the rarest of the "accidental" warb- s.w. of Tallahassee Mar. 31 (GM). Another tinned 500 birds Apr. 20, some of which still lers in Florida is the Townsend's. Two pre- Blue Grosbeak at S.G.I., May 28 (JS) was a may have been in N migration. By May 17, vious records exist. Claire Krusko, a trans- day short of tieing the latestdate for the Tally 1000+ martins were present. An estimated planted Californian familiar with the species, Div. A wintering Dickcissel was still in 20,000 used this post-breeding roost in the described a male in a plumage intermediate Gainesville Mar. 17 (H&WD), while other summer of 1980 (C. Hancock). Last fall's in- between first fall and breeding, after observ- single birds were in s. Jacksonville Mar vas•on of Red-breasted Nuthatches spilled ing it for 10 rain from a distanceof 20 ft while 1-Apr. 5 (PP), on S.G.I., Apr. 23 (JS) and

816 American Birds, September 1981 near Shell Pt., Apr. 28 (LA, BA). ONTARIO REGION same bird. Both bitterns were scarce, and if S.A. / C!ive E. Goodwin all the Leasts seen were reported then there were only five for the entire Province. Last summer, three of the four ty Dusky SeasideSparrows remaining in the SWANS, GEESE, DUCKS--Waterfowl St. John's R. marsheswere captured and migration was unexceptional. Canada Geese cagedin Gainesville(with two malescap- moved in enormous numbers Apr. 22-May 6 tured in 1979). The recent 1981 survey Springwas unusually exciting with a multi- tude of rarities. Yet it lacked much pattern, --13,970 were counted over 13 days at Port found no (=zero) Duskies surviving in which makesthe preparationof a conciseyet Hope (ERM et al.) and at Kingston diurnal the wild. All five of the last living Duskies are now housed at the Sante Fe Com- coherentreport doubly difficult. passagealone totalled at least 44,500 birds May 2-6 (K.F.N.). The Brant flight was one munity College Teaching Zoo in of the heaviest on record, and small flocks Gainesville, where they will live out their The warm spellwhich endedthe winter re- were recorded across the s. in May with the remaining days in relative security. The portingperiod was short, and it wasnot until largest numbers as usual in the e., where U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has refused the end of March that warmer weather re- Kingston observers recorded 1600 May 8-14 to allow them to be bred with (• Seaside turned. It too was soon displaced,and most and 8000 May 15. On James Bay there were Sparrows from Florida's Gulf Coast of April wascool. The patternrepeated itself 4000 May 26 (P), and the significanceof the (peninsulae--aiso a dark-colored race), in later April and the beginningof May. Peak southern counts is not clear as most Brant which would preservethe duskygene pool arrivalsoccurred during thesewarmer spells, passageis not visiblethere. The season'sonly in living birds(this intra-specificcross has but heavy falls of migrantswere few. The White-fronted Goose was at Tiny Marsh May already been shown to be feasible) warmer periodsstimulated early movement, 9-16 (DS, PVS, FW). Early waterfowl at the because they are afraid of the precedent and many early and record-earlydates were end of February along the Lower Great that this may set for the endangered established--fartoo many for full enumera- Lakes, where these species often winter in species program. Conversely, the tion here. small numbers, were less noteworthy than a precedent-settingevent (for the Dusky) of string of Algonquin P.P. records: Wood and extinction does not appear to disturb Ring-necked ducks Apr. 5, Green-winged them so much, and they conveniently GREBES--Red-necked Grebes appeared Teal Apr. 7, and Blue-winged Teal and Am. overlook their PeregrineFalcon breeding in better numbers for the second successive Wigeon Apr. 9 (RT, MP). A Cinnamon Teal program that has already establishedthe spring: at both Pickering and Mississagi at Amherst I., May 10 (A & FC, AEH, LS) precedent for an intraspecific breeding Light over 400 were counted, in early and late provided Kingston's secondrecord in 2 years, program. April respectively(m.ob., JN) and Cobourg and only the Province's third in almost 20 On a happier vote, the annual survey of loon counters had a high of 250 Mar. 28 years. Three Eur. Wigeon sightings,a good the Cape Sable Seaside Sparrow in (ERM). Horned Grebe numbers, however, number, were at Tara Apr. 26-28 (JWJ el E.N.P., revealed good populations in continued low with 85 at Prince Edward Pt. al.), Long Pt., May 2 (RC et al.) and Picker- several nesting coloniesboth in the park (hereafter, P.E.Pt.) Apr. 11 the most re- ing May 31 (WWS, m.ob.). Most noteworthy and in the Big CypressPreserve (O. Bass). ported (K.F.N.). Six Eared Grebe reports of five Barrow's Goldeneye reports was of a Unfortunately, the funds to completeac- were in keeping with the increased numbers bird at Caribou I., L. Superior, May 15 (RN). quisitionof this preservehave been elimi- of this speciesover the past 3 years. They There were several N. Shoveler in the n.: a nated by Sec. Watt. were n. and e. to Port Elgin and Burlington. Thunder Bay bird May 16 (TBFN), two at A Pied-billed Grebe at ShipsandsI., May 28 Wawa and two more at Beardmore May Lark Sparrowswere in Naples Mar. 14 (P (PDP, MJ, JT; hereafter, P) was far n. of its 11-12 (JM, RDM, WM; hereafter, M). Much & J Ware) and Hugh Taylor Birch P., Ft. normal range. rarer were two Canvasbacksoff ShipsandsI., Lauderdale, Apr. 26 (WG & B Hope), the May 26 (P). latest date for the S. Pen. A Bachman's Spar- CORMORANTS THROUGH HERONS row on Long Pine Key Mar. 8 (K. Kaufman --Flocks of up to 50 Double-crestedCormo- HAWKS--A few hawk flights were note- et al.) may be southernmost record in the rants were widespread, and 130 were counted worthy: at Lake of the Woods 15 Rough- state. A Chipping Sparrow at D.T., May 2 on Pelee I., May 10 (PAW), encouragingin- legged Hawks and 25 + Marsh Hawks Apr. (MB, D. Mager) tied the latest Lower Keys dications of this species'continued recovery. 17 (DHE, ME, NB), and 25 Rough-leggeds date and a Clay-colored Sparrow at a feeder Two Green Herons at Gravenhurst May 14 along L. Temiskaming the next day (PWR). in Vero Beach Apr. 9 (F. Graves, H&WD) (PT) were rare for this locality. The season At Caribou I., 5-15 Sharp-shinned Hawks was a rarity there. was not noteworthy for southern herons, al- passedthrou ;h daily May 6-21 (RN), and six though Great Egrets INITIALED CONTRIBUTORS (Area wandered N and E to editors in bold face)--Brooks Atherton, Lyn Spry L., Apr. 24+ (JD, LakeSuperior • JAMES Atherlon, Ann Ayers, Ted Below, Virginia PM), Algonquin P., Below, Marge Brown, Page Brown, Robin May 7 (SID and the M. Carter, James Cavanagh, Bucks Cooper, Kingston area in May. Robert L. Crawford, Roberta Davis, Jon Single Cattle Egrets )i&•Sault SaintPP G•gama •Ka....L'Iq•I•-PlPIgønMøøsø•-•--B• AY Dunn, Helen & William Dowling, D. Jack were at Whitby May 12 Dozier, Caroline Eastman, Paul Fellers, (DRh) and Amherst I., • North••er• Davis Finch, Dorothy W. Freeman, Chuck Apr. 24-25 (MM); Geanangel, Wally George, Gary Graves, Snowies at Pelee I. and Frances Hames, John Hintermister, Larry the area of Pt. Pelee -% Hopkins, Gloria Hunter, Scott Isherwood, N.P. (hereafter, Pelee) .... - • Sound Deloris Isled, Johnny Johnson, Bernard May 9-13 (PAW, m.ob.) King, ,lames King, Claire Krusko, Howard and Presqu'ile P.P., L. I • . • C•nwall• Langridge, Jack Larcombe, Pat Lanzilotti, May 19 (JAM, HM); Fred Lohrer, David Maehr, Gail Menk, Bar- and a Louisiana Heron • •""'• •rrl•PeterbMobgh bara Mushlitz, Richard Paul, Becky Payne, at Rondeau Apr. 25 [( MarshLuth•..... •rt"•Wolfe Klng•to••. Peggy Powell, Roberl RaperminE, Ted (PAW). Most notewor- I ..... • %•Pr•ce Edward Robinson, Robert & Marge Sokol, Henry thy, however, were $ W•te••o ••t Stevenson, James Stevenson, Mrs. Frank sightings of the much Stoutamire, Paul Sykes, Rob Thorn, Charles rarer Yellow-crowned L.St.• • --Lond• •N•gar• mlrf • Haw•lif f• Wall, Mickey Wheeler, Joseph Wilson. Night Heron at Pelee --HERBERT W. KALE 11, Florida May 10-12 (m.ob.) and J • .... LongP• • '• RondsauPP Audubon Society, 35-1st Court, S.W., Vero Selkirk May 18-28 (BL, P•t Pelee Beach, FL 32960. m.ob.), possibly the NP L. ERIE

Volume 35, Number 5 817 The Blue List for 1982-Questionnaire We want your input

Eachyear American Birds publishesa list of speciesthat, in the bestopinion of our reader-observers,appear to be declining in numbers,either throughout their North American ranges,or regionally.Species or raceseligible for the Blue List are those apparentlysuffering non-cyclical population declines, but whichhave not reachedthe endangeredstatus. In previousyears we havetermed it an "early warninglist," for its purposeis to alert the conservation,regulatory, and ornithologicalworlds to sit- uations of concern, in time to take action. Our Blue List has been an important annual feature, much quoted,and usedin preparing"Threatened Species"lists by governmentalagencies and EnvironmentalImpact Statements.Its credibilityis gainedbecause it reflectsthe bestjudgment of the peoplewho spendthe most time in the field and are mostwidely representedaround the continent. There is, however,one important improvementin its reliability we seekto make. We want many more cooperatorsto report. This year the form has been simplified, but it will provide much usefulinformation if it is carefully answeredand returned to our editor. All we ask is that you supplywhatever knowledge you may possess(your own first-handknowledge), whether it be for one speciesor many--and return it to Dr. JamesTate by December31, 1981.

New simplified instructions--read them carefully

The removableself-mail questionnaire is the facingpage. On it we ask simplythat you provideyour notationsof the status of the 1981(for 1980)Blue List Species(American Birds, January1981 35 (1) 3-10), as observedin your ReportingRegion during 1981. Even if your 1981 observationsshow no or little change,please so report. If you made no report in 1980, but havenoted marked changes in any breedingspecies in recentyears, please report. If thereare speciesyou believeshould be ad- ded to the Blue List, pleaselist them. If speciesBlue-listed last year have increasedin 1981, pleaseso note.

Names.We want to know the basisfor yourjudgments: how manyyears' experience in your areayou have.There is a space for this. If listingother cooperators,their experience,if known, can be insertedafter their names,i.e., Elliott Coues(31), Robert Ridgway (16), etc. ReportingRegion. This is the American Birds Regionin which you live or primarily bird. If your "home" area includes more than one Region,list them. Give alsothe area on whichyou are reporting.Example: Northern Great PlainsRegion: within I00 milesof Bismarck,N.D.--or Hudson-Delaware& Middle AtlanticRegs., Washington, D.C. If you reporton widely separatedRegions, use a separateform for each. PhotocopiesOK. Species:Use the identifiablename of the speciesas publishedin AmericanBirds. (Most namesare listedby Monroe, B. in the July issue--AB: 35 (4) 758). If you are reportingon one raceof a species,be sureto identifywhich race. We will accept namessuch as Red-shaftedFlicker or Bullock's Oriole. DO NOT report on speciesnot normally found in your Region. Re- portson Red-cockadedWoodpecker in Georgiawould be welcomebut reportingon Varied Thrushin Ohio wouldbe mean- lngless.Do not report on speciesalready listed as Endangered. 1981 Status:Check the one spacefor eachspecies about whichyou have knowledge(not necessarilythe entirelist), that givesyour best impressionof its 1981 status. For speciesthat seemto be increasing,we want information ONLY on those specieslisted on the 1981(for 1980)Blue List. (You neednot tell us that CattleEgrets are increasing).We solicitevidence or documentation in support of your opinions. On the form, the column entitled STATUS has 5 spaces.These are keyed as follows: A--greatly down in numbers.B-- down in numbers.C--stable. D--up in numbers.E--greatly up in numbers.If you are reportingfor yourselfonly, simply checkthe appropriatespace for that species.If reportingfor othersas well, total the "votes" for eachcategory. See example on reverseof form. Ignore "not known" votes. Comments.We welcomebrief, meaningfulquotes from respondents.If necessary,use more than one line on the form, or attacha page.Whenever possible, refer to supportingevidence. Example: "CBC data(on residentspecies) shows 45 % decline in last 5 years." "No longerbreeding in 6-countyarea surveyed (12 pairsin 1972)."Try to giveknown (or suspected)causes of decline,i.e., increasedurbanization, marsh drainage,predation, (includingman's), woodcutting,ORVs, etc. Respondent/Compiler.Whether you are an individualrespondent or a compilerfor more than one person,fill out this sec- tion of the form appropriately,including your mailing address(tel. no. optional), listing othersby name only. Pleaselist namesexactly as they shouldbe printed, if published. Mailing. When you are done, fold the form in thirds so that the return addressis on one outsidefold with a blank on the other. If sheetsare added,place them inside.Staple or tapetogether, add sufficientpostage, and mail. The BlueList appears in our January 1982 issue, so promptnessis essential. Deadline for receipt is December31, 1981, but if you are a little late mail it anyway. We would rather have it late than never. Thank you for your cooperation.This is one placeyour field work paysoff.

818 American Birds, September1981 Cooperator's Form-The Blue List for 1982

Where do you b•rd? Your name and address Other contributors' names.

Am. Birds Reporting Region. Cooperator Use extra sheet if needed

Area reportedon. Address

Years birded this area. City, State, Zip

SPECIES OR RACE 1981 STATUS COMMENTS (Give initials of source) (You may abbreviate) A B C D E

Do not use ( )

(

(Seereverse for examples.) (Removeto fold and mail.) Follow this example in completing your form: Cooperator's Form-Re Blue List for 1982

Do not use ( ) Wheredo you bird? Your name and address Other contributors' names. ':y. Am Birds ReportingRegion. Cooperator Use extra sheet if needed Ad *•' Ala&a•a. A•ea •c•ted on. Address

Years blrded this area.

SPECIES OR RACE 1981 STATUS COMMENTS (Give initials of source) (You may abbreviate) A B C D E

Do not use

asuodsaH1•.• anl•I Z:86[ A.L•DOS NOli•l(l•lV •'NOLLVN

'V'S'•I t;0P08 "O•) 'uaploD 'IS zj2•nO •;SPL ßif 'a!•I samEf

(ssaJppeuJnl•) moved along the w James Bay coast May 27 sidered fully diagnostic The season also (K F N ) This last specieswas also seen at (P). An exceptionally early Broad-winged brought a good assortmentof the more com- Moosonee May 24 (P). Hawk was at Kingston Mar. 13 (GW). A. monplacerarities. Eight Willet reportswas an Maki had a Turkey Vulture and a Bald Eagle average number, but three Baird's Sandpi- DOVES THROUGH HUMMINGBIRDS at Thunder Bay both Apr. 17 and both rare pers were high for spring. The only Stilt --Mourning Doves were n. to Moosonee (P) there. Two different Gyrfalcons were at Sandpiper was at Amherstview May 6-7 The Owl Rehabilitation and Research Foun- Whitby, a black bird Mar. 7 and a gray phase (RDW, m.ob.). A Marbled Godwit at Pelee dation received young Hawk Owls from Apr. 5 (EP, RN), and there were 16 Peregrine May 18 (AGC et al.) and Hudsonian Godwits Moosonee,Gogama, Chapleauand Kapuska- Falcons seen across the Province in the at Little Current May 22 (CB) and Bright's asing--the first young of this speciesthey period. Grove May 24-25 (DR) were the only sight- have ever handled (KMcK). A Barred Owl ings of these speciesin the s. Four Ruffs in was calling at Normandale May 10 (RH, BD GROUSE THROUGH RAILS--Some re- the period equalled the record set in 1977: et al.). A Great Gray remainedat Kingstonto covery was detected in Bobwhite numbers at they were at Port Hope Apr. 16-May 3 (RJ et May 24 (K.F.N.) and one was in Darlington Melbourne (DM), but there were none else- al.), Amherstview May 10 (RDW, m.ob.), Twp., Mar. 12 (JR). Late reports, suggesting where. Sandhill Cranes arrived early on Man- BracebridgeMay 10-11 (AS, RB) and Blen- breeding birds, of Long-eareds were from ltoulin I., Apr. 4 (CB) and their migration heim May 11 (PAW). An Am. Avocet was Pinewood May 19 (M) and Atikokan Apr 8 was well reported: 31 at Lake of the Woods seenat Port McNichol May 23-26 (JT et al.) (DHE), where there was a Short-eared Apr Apr. 17 (DHE, ME, NB) and birds daily off and two otherson May 19 on Sable I., site of 12 (TN). Others were at Terrace Bay May 11 Shipsands I., May 22-30, with a high of 42 last year's first breedingrecords (M). (RDM), four in Blezard Valley Apr 22 May 25 (P). The speciesis rare farther s. but Three shorebird species appeared in (S.O.S.) and 19 and 12 birds Apr. 10 and one was at Rondeau May 1-24 (PAW). Early unprecedented spring numbers. Everyone May 16 respectivelyon Amherst I. (K.F N ) records included a Virginia Rail at Provi- was reporting hundreds of Pectoral Sand- There were no reliable reports of Chuck- dence Bay Apr. 17 (CB, JL), and a Sora at pipers from Apr. 10-11+. The highestcount will's-widow from Pelee this spring, but a Kettle Pt., Apr. 7 (AR). King Rail reports was of 1000 at Smithville Apr. 25 (KMcL), bird called at Rondeau during May (PAW) from 3 different s.w. stations (fide AHK) but the birds were everywhere--flying out of from the secondsuccessive year were encour- the puddles in expresswayditches and runn- WOODPECKERS THROUGH SWAL- aging, as there were none in 1978-79. Yellow ing around on lawns and golf courses!Spring LOWS--A Red-headed Woodpecker at Rails also reappeared at their remaining Hol- W. Sandpipers are always scarce, so 4 Batchawana Pt., May 10 (M) was well n of land Marsh station (CJM) after an absenceof records, including six at Bright's Grove May its range. The season's Scissor-tailed Fly- 3 years, and four birds at ShipsandsI., May 24-25 (DR, AR) were remarkable. Finally, catcher was found by a non-birder, at Dot- 25-28 (P) were early arrivals there. the Wilson's Phaiarope successstory con- land Apr. 25 (D. Reynolds). Two Acadian tinues unabated. At least 106 birds were in 20 Flycatchershad arrived at Rondeau by May SHOREBIRDS--Water levels were high locations in the s., and they appeared to be 30 (PAW), and one was at P.E.Pt., May 17 again this year, but it was a bonanza shore- likely to breed at severalsewage lagoons. One (RDW). Early records included an Ohve- bird seasonin spite of this as several sewage also turned up at Thunder Bay May 16 (DA). sided Flycatcherat Pelee May 9 (fide AHK), lagoons had ideal conditions. Along the In another class were the 450+ Rainy R. a Tree Swallow at Kingston Mar. 15 (MBr), James Bay coast Paul Pratt's party recorded sewagelagoons May 18 (M), but suchconcen- Rough-winged at Peterborough Apr 5 21 speciesof shorebirdsMay 25-26, including trations may be less remarkable in this w. (RDM) and a Barn at Pelee Mar. 29 (KJB, 225 Red Knots, 2000 Dunlin, one Marbled locality. PDP). and six Hudsonian godwits and six and four Wllson's and N. phalaropes respectively. GULLS, TERNS--Two Lesser Black- CROWS THROUGH WRENS--Docu- Likely these are all regular enough there in backed Gulls were carefully described from mentation is awaited on a Clark's Nutcracker late May, but competent birders are not! A P.E.Pt., Mar. 22 (GV, RDW) and Oliphant sightingfrom Caribou I., May 9 (RN). There Piping Plover was at Pelee May 14-15 (AR, June 5 (DR), and Kingston had its first con- is a prior photographic record for Ontario mob.) and on their remainingOntario breed- firmed Thayer's Gull Mar. 8 (RDW). The from 1973. A House Wren at Kettle Pt., Mar lng station there were five at Lake of the scatteringof rarer small gulls was average for 25 (AR) was early; and in Algonquin P P., Woods and seven more on Sable I., May 19 spring: Black-headed at Rondeau May 6-14 where they are rare, one was seen May 29 (M). Northerly Upland Sandpiper sightings (JPK, JGH), Laughing at Wheatley Mar. 6 (RK, JDR). Bewick's Wrens occur almost an- were from Marathon May 11 by the same ob- (PDP, TP, AW) and Black-leggedKittiwake nually in Ontario, and this spring one was at servers,and Thunder Bay May 30 (fide DA). at P.E.Pt., Apr. 11 (KFE, RKE). A Frank- Rondeau May 17-20 (PAW). Carolina Wrens A very early bird was at Morton Apr. 4 lin's Gull at Marathon May 11 was particu- showed some recovery, with two Pelee birds, (MH), one of a host of exceptionally early larly noteworthy and there were 14 at Rainy three at Kingston and others at Rondeau and shorebird records this spring. Interesting R., May 19 (M). Bonaparte's Gulls appeared Toronto. A new colony of Short-billed Marsh early arrivals from such localities as Algon- in exceptionalnumbers away from their usual Wrens was located at Lakefield May 20 quin P.P., and Manitoulin I., were eclipsed centresof abundance:500 at Strathroy Apr. (DCS, TB). by the recordsset farther s. Peleecontributed 19 (DM), 7000 at Oshawa May 10 (GAS) and a Whimbrel May 3 (JPK) and a Solitary 1000 at P.E.Pt., Apr. 26 (PMacK). Little MIMIDS THROUGH VIREOS--Mock- Sandpiper May 5 (fide AHK), Smithville a Gulls seemed more common in the Whitby- ingbirds can turn up anywhere, and northern Spotted SandpiperApr. 12 (KMcL,RW) and Oshawa area than along L. Erie but 31 along birders were treated to birds at Rutherglen Whitby a Greater YellowlegsMar. 24 (MW). the Lower Great Lakes was a low total (per- May 24 (DMcL, fide LdeKL), Englehart May A Least Sandpiperappeared at Thunder Bay haps the specieswas under-reported),and the 16 (JBW) and Moosonee May 23 (P) The Apr. 30 (IM), a Semipalmatedat EssexApr. really noteworthy reports were of seven at season'smost observed rarity was a Sage 30 (PDP) and a Dunlin at Erie BeachApr. 8 Moosonee May 23 and 11--possibly some of Thrasher Apr. 27-May 16 which spent the en- (RFA et al.). The shorebirdof the seasonwas the same birds--at ShipsandsI., May 25 (P). tire period 3 mi down the Rondeau marsh a Spotted Redshank at Lakefield May 7 Have birds been regular there in spring, a trail, and was seen by hundreds (PAW, (AGC, m.ob.). There is only one prior sight source of the s. Ontario population, or does m.ob.). The Fieldfare was seenin Toronto to record for Ontario, in 1976, and at the time this representan expansion of that popula- May 19 (fide JEG) and the Varied Thrush of writing it is uncertainwhether there will be tion? The same observers had 30 Arctic Terns there to Apr. 7 (TRS). Another was at Chelt- satisfactoryphotographs of this year's bird. at Moosonee by May 23 and 200+ to May enham May 13-14 (RG). Another Toronto An even rarer bird--because no prior rec- 30. Periodicallythis specieshas beenreported area rarity, the Townsend's Solitaire at Pick- ords exist--is the Redshank, and a photo- at Pelee in the spring but never documented ering, was last seenApr. 19 (ADo), and a bird graph of a bird at Toronto May 2 (J. Schmel- satisfactorily. A bird there on May 14 was appeared at Pelee Apr. 26-28 (m.ob.). Four efske) does indeed appear to be of this spe- identified by observers highly experienced Wood Thrushes in the area e. of Rainy R , cies. Unfortunately Tringa speciesare quite with this species(JC, CM, AR). Early terns May 19 (M) were further evidence that the similar in appearancewhen standing, and I included Forster's on Amherst I., Apr. 10 speciesis a rare breeder there. A huge move- am uncertain that this shot, unsupportedat (MM), Common at Niagara Falls Apr. 5 ment of Golden-crowned Kinglets at Pres- present by any documentation, will be con- (RFA et al.), and Caspian on Wolfe I., Apr. 5 qu'ile P.P., Apr. 17 was estimated at 2250

Volume 35, Number 5 819 (RDM) and an early Ruby-crowned was at 24-29 were well n. of their normal range nothing to compare to a reported Baird's AlgonquinP.P., Apr. 11 (RT). Eight Logger- (PDP et al.). An E. Meadowlark heard at Sparrow May 9 (RN). Documentation is head Shrikes were reported in all, and a very Emo May 14 (M) was well w. of this species' awaited on this, although unfortunately with- late N. Shrike was on Caribou 1., May 9 range. Both Yellow-headed and Brewer's out a photographor a secondsupporting ob- (RN). White-eyedVireos were lesscommon blackbirds were more widespread than ever server the record would not qualify for the in the s.w. this spring, but appearedat Whit- before. Yellow-headeds are well established formal Provincial check-list, as there is no by May 15 (MB) and P.E.Pt., May 17 (RDW) only in the extreme w., as 100+ males at prior substantiated record. Both Lapland and an early bird was at Pelee Apr. 4 (RDM). Harris Hill May 16 (M) attested, but there Longspurs--in high breeding plumage--and were at least 13 reports from e. of Thunder Snow Buntings were in large numbers all WARBLERS--There were seven plus Pro- Bay, including ones n. to Moosonce May across the n. of L. Superior May 11-13 (M) thonotary Warblersat Rondeauby the end of 23-24 (P) and e. to Amherstview May 6-17 and there were some 780 and 1500 respective- the period, and at least two at Pelee, as well (m.ob.), and five in the s.w. Brewer's ly at Moosonce at the end of May (P). as two plus Worm-eating Warblers there Blackbirds are well established s. of L. Huron (m.ob.). Golden-winged and Blue-winged only in BruceCounty, and 30 + birdswere in SUB-REGIONAL EDITORS (boldface), warblers were again widespread, Blue- 3 nestingareas there from Apr. 7 (JWJ), but CONTRIBUTORS (italic) and CITED OB- wingeds outnumbering Golden-wingeds at at least 12 others were seen, e. to Peter- SERVERS--R.F. Andtie, D. Asquith, M. Pelee, but the latter specieswas n. to Sudbury borough {fide DCS) and P.E.Pt. (RDW), n. Bain, C. Bell, T. Bigg, N. Blogg, R. Bowles, (JN), Gravenhurst May 6 (RB) and two ap- to Tiny Marsh (K&WZ) and w. to Bright's M. Brown (MBr), R. Brown (RBr), K.J. peared at Rainy R., May 17 & 19 (M). A Grove (AR). A N. Oriole at Lake of the Burk, J. Campling (JCa), A.G. Carpentier, Brewster's was on Caribou I., May 20 (RN) Woods May 15 had a white belly and was L. Chambers, J.C. Clarke, A. & F. Cooke, J. and a Lawrence's at Otter L., May 23 thought to be a hybrid Baltimore x Bullock's Cudworth, R. Curry, M.P. Davis, A. Dawe, (RDW). Most noteworthy of a number of (M). Orchard Orioles appearedn. to S. Bay- A. Dobson (ADo), J. Donnelly, B. Duncan, early warbler recordswas probably the Mag- mouth May 3 (CB) and again e. to P.E.Pt., K.F. Edwards, M.C. Edwards, R.K. Ed- nolia at Sibley P.P., Apr. 26 (T.B.F.N.). A May 17 (GV, RDW), where a Summer Tan- wards, D.H. Elder, M. Elder, S. Fraser, R. Townsend's Warbler at Sarnia May 18-19 ager was also presentat the same time. Four Gairdner, D. Gildnet, J.E. Goodwin, J.G. (D J, DR, m.ob.), the fifth for Ontario, was other reports of this speciesMay 2-17, were Hanagan, D. Hasley, M. Hendrick, R. Hep- eclipsed by another westerner, a Hermit all from the s.w. worth, T. Hince, A.E. Hughes, W.R. Jar- Warbler at Pelee May 2-6 (TH, m.ob.) seen main, R. Jasink (RJa), M. Jennings, R. by hundreds and sought by many more un- FINCHES, SPARROWS•A o' Black- John, J.W. Johnson, D. Johnston, A.H. successfully, Ontario's first. A Yellow- headed Grosbeak was described from Port Kelley, Kingston Field Naturalists, R. Kings- throated Warbler at Rondeau Apr. 25-May Hope May 4 (BCO). The only Blue Grosbeak wood (RKi), J.P. Kleiman, R. Knapton, B. 16 (PAW, m.ob.) seemedcommonplace by reports this year were from Pelee May 11 & Laidlaw, L. de K. Lawrence, J. Lemon, I. comparison, as the specieshas been almost 16 (MBr, PDP, m.ob.) and the only Dickcis- MacDonald, C.J. MacFayden, H. MacKen- annual in occurrence since the late 1960s. The sel seen was at Rondeau May 11-12 (PAW, zie, P. MacKenzie, C. Massingham,M. Mat- Pratt party's Moosonce trip found Wilson's RJa). House Finchescontinued in good num- thews, W. McAllister, E.R. McDonald, M. the commonest warbler, and had a Chestnut- bers at Kingston (HQ et al.), St. Thomas McEvoy, K. McKeever, D. McLaren, K. sided at Moose Factory May 29. Kentucky (RKi) and Toronto (LW, DH, BDP) and McLaughlin, R.D. McRae, P. Middleton, J. Warblers were widespread with birds at eight birds werereported elsewhere, but with Mountjoy, multiple observers(m.ob.), J.A. P.E.Pt., May 16 (RKE et aL), Toronto May no news from Niagara-on-the-Lake. Both Murray, D. Murray, T. Nash, J. Nicholson, 12 (RP) and AncasterMay 26 (C.&S. Wood) Pine Grosbeaks and Pine Siskins lingered R. Nisbet, B.C. Olson, M. Pageot, B.D. in addition to the more routine appearances late, the grosbeaksto May I in Algonquin Parker, E. Pegg, S. Peruniak, R. Powley, in the s.w. Other southern warblers away P.P. (RK) and May 10 at Thunder Bay (JCa) P.D. Pratt, T. Pratt, H. Quilltam, J.D. Rey- from these favoured locations were two Lou- and the siskinsstill widespreadin the s. at the nolds, J. Richards, P.W. Richter, A. Rider, isiana Waterthrushes at Kingston from Apr. period's end. Algonquin Park's first-ever Le L.H. Robertson, D. Ruch (DRh), D. Rupert, 30 (MCE, RKE), a Yellow-breastedChat at Conte's Sparrow was found May 29 (RK, D.C. Sadler, G.A. Scott, T.R. Scovell, A. Caribou I., of all places, May 17 (RN) and JDR, m.ob.) and one was on Manitoulin I., Sinclair, W.W. Smith, D. Stuckey, Sudbury another at Whitby May 20 (MMcE), where Apr. 26 (JN). On ShipsandsI., there were Ornithological Society, L. Swerbrick, P. two Hooded Warblers also appeared May 9- 30 + May 24-28, although Sharp-tailedshad Tafts, J. Thompson, Thunder Bay Field Na- 26 (m.ob.). Otherswere at P.E.Pt., May 9 & not yet arrived; and three Clay-coloreds were turalists, R. Tozer, G. Vance, P. VanStam, 17 (GV, RDW), but in the s.w. the birds were also seen (P). Elsewhere a Clay-colored was R. Waldhuber, J.B. Wallace, R.D. Weir, L. in smaller numbers than usual. at Cape Crocker May 24 (JWJ) and a Sharp- Wensley, F. Westmore, M. Wilson, C. & S. tailed at Pelee May 17 (RBr, JPK). A Lark Wood, P.A. Woodlille, G. Woods, A. Wor- BLACKBIRDS•A large single group of Sparrow, always a rarity in Ontario, was at mington, K. & W. Zufelt.--CLIVE E. 150 BobolinksMay 9 at Peleemust have been Bright's Grove May 9 (AR). At Caribou I., a GOODWIN, 11 Westbank Cresc., Weston, a striking sight, and four at Moosonce May Field Sparrow May 17 was a surprise, but Ontario, Canada, M9P IS4.

NIAGARA-CHAMPLAIN REGION stressesawaiting arriving birds in the Region. reach the breeding grounds. Unfortunately a An armada of salmon fishermen has greatly decline, much less a cause-and-effect rela- /Douglas P. Kibbe reduced waterfowl use of the south side of tionship would be virtually impossible to Weather appearsto have far greater effects Lake Ontario during the early spring mon- document. Although direct mortality due to on birders than it does on the movement of ths.How critical it • the vast majority of our spring migrants. Re- is for thesebirds to .• ports were colored with complaintson the rest and forage in early leafingout of vegetationinduced by un- these shallow pro- seasonably mild conditions (which made tected areas is, un- viewingdifficu10, the absenceof weatherin- fortunately, ducedgrounding (certainly a stressthe birds unknown but the stress of this can do without), and the scarcityof mudflats AO• mAY • / / i • • (despite a prolonged drought which must unintentional have exposedfar more pond and reservoir harassment could margins than usual). Indeed, it must have easily impair the been an excellent spring for most migrants reproductive per- with the normal adversities reduced to a mini- formance of these mum. Man's activitiesare responsiblefor two birds once they

820 AmericanBirds, September 1981 fishing disturbanceis assumedto be minor, it dock Bay which is located midway along the grants regularly crossthe lake A Snowy Owl is perhaps important to note at this point that Lake. This spring however more Turkey Vul- at Philadelphia May 4 (/Me KLC) was excep- C Spies determined, based on beachedbird tures (1694 rs. 1294), and Bald Eagles(18 rs. tionally tardy. surveysalong the Lake Ontario south shore, 10) were tallied at the bay. Other excellent that fishing tackle was responsiblefor most totals, all from Derby Hill, included 674 WOODPECKERS TO MIMIDS--Only of the specificallyattributable bird mortality Cooper's and 622 Rough-leggedhawks, 15 two Red-headed Woodpeckers were sighted this spring. The secondenvironmental pertur- Golden Eagles(including five on May 5), 719 in Vermont; at S. Starksboro and Grand I, bation, for which man is ultimately responsi- Marsh Hawks, and 326 Ospreys. The latter but a slightincrease was reported in the Fing- ble, was the massiveoutbreak of gypsymoths specieswas reported to be nesting again at er Lakes area (WEB). Although N. Three- which defoliated hundreds of acres of forest Montezuma N.W.R. Rough-legged Hawks toed Woodpeckershave still not been found m southeastern sections of the Region. lingereduntil May 7 at Newfield and May 16 breeding in Vermont the circumstantial evi- Although this outbreak apparently had no at Elmira (fide WEB) in the aftermath of this dencewas strengthenedby sightingsnear Is- noticeable impact on migrants, it is hoped winter's invasion. About a dozen Peregrines land Pond Mar. 31 (CS) and FerdinandMay that observerscarefully assessedthe impacts and two dozenMerlins and a dark-phaseGyr- 11 (WS). In addition to the usual Bergen of subsequentdefoliation on the normal falcon, the latter in Norwich, Vt., Mar. 30 Swamp sighting, Acadian Flycatchers were breedingavifauna. (WJH), were seen. Gray Partridge reputedly also seen and, in the latter case, recorded at enjoyed a "good winter carry over" in the Eggertsvillein Erie County and Connecticut LOONS THROUGH WATERFOWL-- Watertown vicinity (LC). Up to two Sandhill Hill s. of Ithaca. Peak Blue Jay movements Maximum countsof loons and grebeson L. Cranes were recorded in the vicinity of occurred the second week of May along the Ontario were well below normal presumably Rochester on 6 occasionsMar. 24-May 23 L. Ontario shore. The seasonal total from owing to salmon sportfishing crowds which (fide RS). The speciesmay now apparently be Derby Hill (15,000) seemedto only partially forced the birds to forsake their usual con- expected annually in the Region, a reflection reflect the magnitude of migration in this centration points. Double-crested Cormor- on the improved status of the e. Greater species. Common Ravens continue to show ants continuedto be well reported, a reflec- Sandhill Crane population. A King Rail was evidence of their increase in New York with tion perhapsof the recent expansionof their found in a northshore marsh on Oneida L. more sightingsfrom Allegheny County, the breedingrange into the Region. Few southern (FS). ACom. Gallinule atop Mt. Philo Apr. Finger Lakes and the L. Ontario shore where herons overflew their normal bounds; how- 26 (WS) was far from its normal haunts. Ex- a migrant was noted as late as May 10, long ever, Buck Pond near Rochester hosted a cept for a major groundingof Pectoral Sand- after this specieshas commenced nesting Snowy Egret, a Little Blue and two Louisiana pipers in w. New York the shorebird migra- Derby Hill observers tallied 42,000 Corn herons while Ithaca had another Little Blue. tion was generally lackluster. More notable Crows. Three-to-four pairs of Fish Crows are Up to ten Great Egrets were found at scat- sightingsincluded a Whimbrel near Allegany, now presentat Ithaca, and their spreadup the tered New York locations but Cattle Egrets Willets at El Dorado Shoresand Biddlecomb, Hudson R. valley is evidencedby more sight- were inordinately scarce. The latter species, and single Buff-breasted and Western sand- ings at the Colonie landfill and New Balti- seeminglyon the verge of wholesalecoloniza- pipersnear Rochester.Three Purple Sandpip- more. They shouldbe listenedfor alongother tion of the Region lessthan a decadeago, has ers tarried at Niagara Falls until Apr. 20 major river and lake systemsthroughout the inexplicably faltered in inland New York. (B.O.S.), very late; and Red Knots were Region. Ever wondered how many chicka- Single Glossy Ibiseswere found at Braddock found at Canoga and Braddock Bay. dees frequent your feeder? Three hundred Bay and Dead Creek. Wilson's Phalaropes were unusually scarce, sixty-eight were banded at a single feeding The most unusualof severalprobable esca- only Penn Yan and Greece reported any. station in Schenectadybetweeen November pees reported this seasonwas a pale (due to and May (RY). A few extralimital Boreal diet?) Amercian Flamingo presentfor more GULLS TO OWLS--A host of unusual Chickadees were reported, one at Derby Hill than a week in Kings Bay on N. Hero in L. gulls and terns were reported scattered May 5 (GS) being the most notable. A single Champlain (m.ob.). throughout the Region. A Black-headed Gull Carolina Wren in W. Rutland was the only Only four Mute swansstrayed NW into the May 25 at Perch R. marked the third con- Vermont report, but they are apparently do- Region. Although apparently doing well in secutive appearance. Several Thayer's Gulls ing well in c. New York. It is hoped that the coastal areas, the speciesshows little inclina- were reported in the Rochester area in March New York atlas will give a more realisticpic- tion to spread far inland. Montezuma and May, a Lesser Black-backed Gull ap- ture of the Short-billed Marsh Wren's distri- N W.R. hosted 85,000 Canada and 12,000 pearedbriefly in Ithaca Apr. 24, a Laughing bution than the handful of reports received Snow geese, about normal spring peaks. Gull was discovered May 16 at Braddock this spring. The speciesfrequents wet (or oc- Brant numbers were modest with best counts Bay, and an ad. Franklin's Gull was identi- casionally dry) meadows which seldom at- of 200 _+coming from c. New York in mid- fied May 16 at Oswego. The L. Ontario tract birders and may not arrive until after May. An Egyptian Goose that toured the beached bird survey unearthed two dead May. Gray Catbirds, normally too common Champlain valley (JD), a Mandarin Duck Black-legged Kittiwakes, evidence that fall to mention, were termed "insanely that spentFebruary and March on a Manlius stragglersto the Great Lakes may pay for abundant"(M J) in the Fredoniaarea. pond (O.A.S.), a Green-winged(Eur.) Teal at their mistakes. Common and Forster's terns StockportStation (RG) and a Eur. Wi'geon both arrived in the Region very early Apr. 5 THRUSHES TO WARBLERS--A Varied on Rose's Marsh (MD, WL, m.ob.) gave a at Niagara Falls and Apr. 17 at Braddock Thrush at SapsuckerWoods Mar. 29 (fide decidedly exotic flavor to this spring's water- Bay. Two Roseate Terns were reportedly WEB) provided the fourth occurrencein the fowl reports; all, however, are probably es- (MD et al.) also presentat the latter location. Region in the past 6 months. An E. Bluebird capees. White-fronted Geese, for many Perhaps the most extraordinary occurrence nest which hatched Apr. 29 (VP) was very decades also considered escapees when of the season however was Vermont's first early. Blue-grayGnatcatchers continue to ap- sighted in the Region, may now be rare mi- Arctic Tern first seen and nearly captured pear at more mountainous portions of the grants through w. New York. This spring's May 12 in Reading (KC et al.) as it struggled Region indicating this speciesis extendingits sightingsincluded three at BiddlecombMarsh to remove a monofilament line from its neck. range altitudinally. Although scarcethis win- Apr. 3 (DWC, GW) and singles at Pool's Amazingly the bird was subsequentlyseen ter, Bohemian Waxwings appeared at Plato- Brook Pond Apr. 10-18(m.ob.) and Carlton and later found dead in East Barnard 20 miles field Mar. 16 (MM), S. HinesburgApr 12 Mar. 28 (MD, ST). Four Barrow's Golden- away May 13 (MHR etal.) bya V.I.N.S. field (WB et al.), and Coot Hill near Westport eyes were identified in w. New York in party. Both cuckooswere reported to be do- Apr. 16 (H.P.A.S.). Although scarce until March. ing well in the Hudson R. valley where the the end of the period, Cedar Waxwings stag- gypsy moth outbreak was most extensive. ed a massive invasion as reflected in a 3-hour HAWKS TO SHOREBIRDS--Black Vul- Only a single Barn Owl was reported at tally of 5000 + at Braddock Bay May 30 (AK, tures were sightedat three e. New York loca- Maritou, but Long-eared, Short-eared and ST). Northern Shrikes lingered through tions in late April and early May, a reflection Saw-Whet owls were well reported. Two March in severallocations. Eight Loggerhead perhapsof the speciesincrease in regionsto Long-eareds and a single Short-eared and Shrikeswere found in New York and one ap- the s. In theory Derby Hill should, sinceit is Saw•Whet each were found on the L. Ontario peared at Dead Creek, Vermont. A half on the far eastern edge of L. Ontario, get beached bird survey indicating, as was expec- dozen White-eyed Vireos were discovered,all consistentlyhigher raptor countsthan Brad- ted, that thesespecies like most nocturnal mi- in c. or w. New York. Two Philadelphia Vlr-

Volume 35, Number 5 821 cos May 2 (fide RS) and May 8 (fide WEB) in third Vermont sighting. A banded N. Oriole Gambel's race at Burgeson Sanctuary near c. New York were extremely early. Protho- retrapped at Vischer Ferry proved to be only Buffalo Apr. 12 (fide VP) and a Harris' Spar- notary Warblers were seen at 4 c. New York one month shy of 10 years old. Knowledge row at Ithaca May 11 (WD, fide WEB). Per- locations besidesthe known breeding area at that the Brewer's Blackbird population is ex- haps the season's greatest surprise however Iroquois N.W.R. Worm-eating Warblers panding in the lake statesdid little to prepare was a Smith's Longspur carefully studied and may be expanding in the Region, particularly observersfor the appearanceof a flock of 17 sketched Apr. 25 near White River Jct., Vt. in c. New York where extralimital reports males and six females at Hamlin Apr. 2-30 (WE, NM). Examination of the supporting were several times normal. More than a (MD, m.ob.). How many other occurrences details by one authority experiencedwith the dozen Orange-crowned Warblers were sight- go unrecognized each year? Summer species (WH) led him to conclude that the ed, all in New York. The recapture of two 8- Tanagers were spied at Syracuse(FS, m.ob.) bird had been a first-year male moulting into year old Yellow Warblers at Vischer Ferry and Braddock Bay (fide RS). Dickcisselswere its first breeding plumage. (RY) during the same spring is little short of reported from Mt. Holly, Vt. (ABet al.) and astonishing, but demonstrates one of the Charlotte, N.Y. (fide RS). CONTRIBUTORS (in Boldface) and values of long-term banding studiesconduct- Both Purple Finches and Pine Siskins stag- CITED OBSERVERS--Allegheny County ed at a single locality. Rarities included a ed an excellent flight into the Region, the lat- Bird Club, R. Andde, A. Barton, W. Beech- Yellow-romped (Audubon's) Warbler at ter found nesting in Burlington by early er, W.E. Benning, E. Brooks, Buffalo Orni- ConnecticutHill May 31 (DS, fide WEB), ex- April. A dark redpoll with an unstreaked thological Society, L. & D. Burton, Cayuga ceptionally late for a migrant; a Yellow- rump and crissum captured and banded Mar. Bird Club, L. Chamberlain, B. Cook, K. throated Warbler at Elmira May 16, col- 22 (RY) demonstratesthe difficulty of speci- Cox, K.L. Crowell, D.W. Crumb, D. Czap- onization of the Region by this expanding s. fying some individuals. Two other redpolls, lak, M. David, P.DeBenedictis,W. Dilger, J. stream-side inhabitant may be imminent; reported as Hoaries were observed near Dye, W. Ellison, B. Fiewelling, D. Freeland, Kentucky Warblers at Braddock Bay (fide Rochester(fide RS). Both crossbillsremained R. Guthrie, W. Hardin, W.J. Hennessy, RS) May 25 and taped at Connecticut Hill extremely scarce. Grasshopper Sparrows, High Peaks Andnbon Society, M. Jones, A. May 29 (DS, fide WEB); and nine Connec- first reported Apr. 11, were quite widely Kemnitzer, S. Laughlin, W. Listman, N. ticut Warbler reports. The latter is an ex- noted in w. New York but as usual were very Martin, J. McCormick, M. Metcalf, D. traordinary number of sightingsfor a species local elsewhere.Tree Sparrows lingered until Muir, J. Nicholson, W. Norse, Onondaga normally considered extremely rare during at least May 16 at two New York locations. Audubon Society, V. Pitzrick, M.H. Rich- the spring. Rarities includeda Painted Bunting at Orlean ards, Rochester Birding Association, M. throughout early May (m.ob., fide VP), a Rusk, F. Scheider, C. Schultz, W. Scott, D. ICTERIDS THROUGH SPARROWS-- Lark Sparrow on SenecaArmy Depot May 28 Sibley, G. Smith, R. Spahn, C.G. Spies, T. A W. Meadowlark was present at Pt. Breeze (JM, fide WEB), a Clay-colored Sparrow Striker, S. Taylor, P. Trail, Vermont Insti- for the third consecutiveyear (RS). Yellow- courting a Chipping Sparrow the last week of tute of Natural Science, G. Ward, R. Yunick. headed Blackbirds were spotted at Parma May in Clifton Springs(PT, fide WEB), an --DOUGLAS P. KIBBE, Box 422, Saxtons (m.ob.), Ballston L. (DF), and at N. Ferris- "Oregon" Junco at Ithaca Apr. 9 (fide River, Vt. 05154. burg, Vt. (TS &BF). The latter provided the WEB), a White-crowned Sparrow of the

APPALACHIAN REGION LOONS THROUGH ANHINGA-- Hawk numbers and from many more parts of the counters on Look Rock, Tenn., counted 25 Region than usual. An Anhinga was seen /George A. Hall Corn. Loons flying by Apr. 11 (SJS, BS), and near Front Royal, Va., May 12 (RSi). observers on Tuscarora Mt., Pa., saw 74 Apr. 19 (DK), and.at Lock Haven, Pa., a HERONS--A newly discovered breeding If lack of agreement among observersin flock of 42 was seen Apr. 28 (PS), but colony of Great Blue Herons at 2000 ft eleva- various parts of the Region denotes a normal elsewherereporters commented on the scarci- tion in Clinton County, Pa., had 42 nests spring, this one was normal. As usual some ty of the species. Red-throated Loons were (PS). Great Egrets were reported from all areas reported an excellent migration and reported from Bald Eagle S.P., Pa., Apr. 28 parts of the Region, which is unusual for the others found it to be rather dull. The winter (RW & SB), and SenecaL., O., Mar. 27-Apr. spring. A Snowy Egret was seen at State Col- had not been very hard, and there was little 3 (JS & RP). There was a good migration of lege, Pa., Apr. 28, the fourth local record snowfall. In the last week of February spring Horned Grebes Mar. 27 in n.w. Pennsylvania (AF) and Little Blue Herons were reported began, and waterfowl began to move into the where 347 were counted Region. March had normal temperatures at Edinboro L., Erie throughout the Region, but rainfall was Co. (JH), and 100 were greatly deficient, continuing the drought of seen at Woodcock L., the fall and winter. April had normal precipi- Crawford Co. (RFL). tation but was much warmer than normal. Five Red-necked Grebes Early May was cooler than normal but the were at Sunbury, Pa., month was warmer than normal at the end. Apr. 27 (SS) and five In the north the precipitation in May was well were seen at Bald Eagle below normal, but in the south and east it was S.P., Pa., in mid-April wetter than normal. (DP). An Fared Grebe Waterfowl began to arrive in late February at Shenandoah L., Va., and the main movement was earlier than nor- Apr. 27 provided the se- mal. The mild April brought a great number cond record for the of early arrivals, and there were many local Mountains and Valleys "earliest seen dates" established. The cooler region of Virginia weather of early May brought the migration (m.ob.) while one at to a standstill,and many of the early May ar- Presque I., Pa., Apr. rivals were later than normal. At Presque 11-26 was seen for the Isle, Pa., many waterfowl remained during third consecutiveyear in this period, and 14 speciesof duck were listed exactly the same spot there on the late date of May 13 (JM): The (JM). wet cool weather ended in the second week of Doubled-crested Cor- May and for 1-12 days the main warbler mi- morants were reported gration moved through. in larger than normal

822 American Birds, September1981 from near Chattanooga, Tenn, Apr 18 wmgeds, and only eight Sharp-shmneds(BS SHOREBIRDS, GULLS AND TERNS-- (KD), from Presque I., Pa., Apr. 18 & 20 & SJS); at Presque I., Pa., 591 hawks in 20 On the L. Erie shore the shorebird migration (SSt & JF), and from Dandridge, Tenn., May days, with 223 Sharp-shinneds, 84 Red- was lower than normal (JM), as was also the 29 (PP). Cattle Egrets were reported from taileds, and only four Broad-wingeds (JM, case at Pymatuning L., Pa. (RFL). In n Vir- Westmoreland County, Pa., Apr. 25 & 27 SSt, CZK), while 360 Broad-wingeds were ginia, not usually a good shorebird spot, the (LC & DSm), State College, Pa., in early May listed at Massanutten Mt., Va., Apr. 19 (CZ). flight was reported as being very good (RS1) (K J), Warren, Pa., May 15 (TG), Fayette The peak Broad-winged day at both Look Detailed observationswere made at the King- County, Pa., May 21 (EC), Augusta County, Rock and Tuscarora Summit was Apr. 19. ston Steam Plant, Tenn., but no comment Va., May 21-16 (LT), Kingston, Tenn., May At a station on the shore just w. of Erie a was made on how this year compared with 27 (BS & SJS), and near Chattanooga, Tenn., total of 76 hawks was banded Mar. 12-Apr. other years (SJS). The wet weather produced May 28 (LD). Yellow-crowned Night Herons 10. Seventy of these were Red-taileds (23 on some good shorebirding at "inland" loca- were reported from State College, Pa., Apr. Mar. 12) two were Red-shoulderedsand four tions which often do not see these species 19 (DM), Erie, Pa., Apr. 14-May 1 (DRo), were Cooper's (RG). Two Piping Plovers were seen at Presque Salem, Va., Apr. 28 (NM), and at least one Of major import was the wide number of I., Apr. 24 & 25 (JF). American Golden Plo- pair was nesting near Elizabethton, Tenn. reports of Bald Eagles from 18 localities. vers are unusual in the Region in spring, and (GE). The Least Bittern is generally a rarely Besidesfrom the TVA lakes in Tennessee, L. so the flock of 55 in Butler County, Pa., May reported bird in this Region and so the fol- Erie and the hawk-watching ridges, there 11 (PH) and 60 + near Wooster, O., Apr 22 lowing reports were noteworthy: State Col- were numerous reports from less favored (JB) were noteworthy. Two were also seen at lege, Pa., Apr. 27 (m.ob.), Westmoreland concentration spots. At Pymatuning L., Pa., Presque I., May 11 (RCL & RM). County, Pa., May 23-26 (m.ob.), Somerset four nesting pairs were raising five eaglets. The Semipalmated Plover and the several County, Pa., May 4 (RCL & RM), Pymatun- After the eggsin one nest failed to hatch an speciesof small sandpiper were more numer- lng L., Pa., May 9 (RFL & ML), and Knox- eaglet from the Patuxent Wildlife Research ous than usual. Other great concentrations ville, Tenn., Apr. 27 (MA). Center was successfullyintroduced into the reported were the 1700 Pectoral Sandpipers nest (Pittsburgh Press). A nest with two along 1.5 mi of shore at Wooster, O., Apr 18 WATERFOWL--A peak of 16,000 ducks young along the s. branch of the Potomac R., (JB), and the 59 Long-billed Dowitchers at in the third week of March was reported from was the first confirmed nesting for West Presque I., May 11 (RCL & RM). Some of Presque I. Bay, Pa. (JM), but elsewhereob- Virginia (BL). the more unusual shorebirds were: Willet at servers found the waterfowl migration to be Black Vultures in Perry County, Pa., two Kingston, Tenn., Apr. 17 (BS & SJS), at She- only fair or even poor. Gadwall were report- Apr. 11 (SS) and Mifflin County, Pa., three nandoah L., Va., Apr. 20 (first county record ed in unusual numbers for this Region, but Mar. 28 (KS) were well n. of the usual range. --RBC), Roanoke, Va., 15 on May 11 (MP), the other dabbling ducks were generally in The latter record was made by the pilot of a and Presque I., May 24 (SSt); Stilt Sandpip- poor numbers. The diving ducks fared better, sailplane. Except at the hawk-watching sta- er, Austin Springs, Tenn., Apr. 25-May 1 and some good concentrations were reported: tions Sharp-shinnedHawks were scarce,but (RK & SG), Marietta, O., May 2 (iS & RP), 350 Redheads, 300 Canvasbacks, and 600 Cooper's Hawks were in somebetter numbers and Union City, Pa., May 12 & 13 (JM), W Red-breasted Mergansers at L. Arthur, Pa., than in recent years. However, the Goshawk Sandpiper, Butler County, Pa., May 11 in late March (GW), 500 Red-breastedMer- seemsto be staging a real boom in this area (PH), Watauga R., Tenn., May 12 (SG & gansersat Woodcock L., Crawford Co., Pa., and there were reports of at least 30 birds MD), Presque I., May 13 (DS & JM), Augus- Mar. 29 (RFL), 1000 Lesser Scaup at Seneca from 8 locations, all in Pennsylvania. ta County, Va., May 13 (LT), and Kingston, L, O., Mar. 27 (JS), and 450 Greater Scaup Osprey.s were in good numbers, and may Tenn., May (BS); Ruddy Turnstone, all on at Chickamauga L., Tenn., Mar. 23 (RSt). have nested near State College, Pa. (fide K J). May 19, 11 at New Hope, Va., (MH), five at The Whistling Swan movement came about Golden Eagles were reported from Frederick Swoope, Va. (YL), and four at Kingston, on time, but the only large concentration re- County, Va., Apr. 29 (RSi), the Skyline Drive Tenn. (BS & SJS); Sanderling, Kingston May ported was 600 at Pymatuning L., Pa., Mar. in Augusta County, Va., May 22 (JA), and 19 (BS & SIS); N. Phalarope at Wooster, O , 22 (RFL). Swans were still present in the Salem, Va., May 12 (one adult and one im- May 21-29 (JB); and Wilson's Phalarope, Lock Haven, Pa. area in mid-May (PS), and mature--NM). At Tuscarora Mt., Pa., seven Wooster, O., May 21-19 (JB) and Presque I , a Mute Swan was found at State College May Golden Eagles, six Apr. 22, were counted May 24 & 25 (SSt, JM). 10 (K J). No great flights of Canada Geese during the period (CG). Merlins were report- A Great Black-backed Gull remained at were reported. At PymatuningL., the nesting ed from Conneaut, Pa., Mar. 8 (ML & RFL), Bald Eagle S.P., Pa., through most of the population of geesewas about 500, somewhat Tuscarora Mt., Pa., Apr. 2 (CG), Roan's season(m.ob.), while there were two records less than normal (RFL), but elsewhereintro- Cr., Tenn., Apr. 25 (LH & JMa), Laurel Hill, from L. Arthur, Butler County, Pa., Mar 21 duced populations seemto be thriving. Nest- Pa., May 9 (RCL), Williamstown, W.Va., (CE & GW) and May 5 (DF). At Presque I , lng was reported from Clarke County, Va. Apr. 16 (CB), and 6 reports totaling nine two Iceland Gulls were seen Mar. 31 and one (RSi). Snow Geesewere reported from Pyma- birds at PresqueI., Pa., Apr. 7-May 27 (SSt, on Apr. 16 (C&ZK). A Laughing Gull was on tuning L., Pa., Mar. 14 (11 blues and two DS, & JM). Peregrines were reported from Nickajack L., near Chattanooga, June 1 whites), and Mar. 22 (three whites--RFL & Look Rock, Tenn., two Mar. 15 (BS & SJS), (KD) and a Franklin's Gull was seenat very ML), from Woodstock, Va. (four white), Pymatuning L., Pa., Apr. 17 (ML & RFL), close range at Seneca L., O., Apr. 23 (JS & Apr. 20 (RSi), from Seneca L., O., Mar. 27 Massanutten Mt., Va., Apr. 19 (CZ), Pres- RP). The normally rare Forster's Tern was (JS), and from Oak Ridge, Tenn., Apr. 21 que I., Apr. 16 & 30 (CZK), and Latrobe, reported from 9 locations ranging from Pres- (one white--W J). White-wingedScoters were Pa., May 18 (RCL). que Isle on the n., Rockingham County, Va, reported from 6 locations, mostly in Pennsyl- on the e., and Chattanooga on the s. and w vania, but with a report from Shenandoah Caspian Terns were reported from 6 locations L , Va. Apr. 2 (R.B.C.), while Surf Scoters CRANES AND RAILS--About 1000 from Presque Isle to Kingston, Tenn. were found in Washington County, Pa., Apr. Sandhill Cranes were seenin the period Mar. 20 (R&DE & R&MH), Bald Eagle S.P., Pa., 2-7 at Savannah Bay near Chattanooga, DOVES, CUCKOOS, AND OWLS--The Apr. 25 (fide K J), Presque I., May 1 (JM), Tenn. (fide RSt), while at Dalton, Ga., small Mourning Dove continues to be present in and Kingston, Tenn., May 2 (BS, SJS), while flocks of up to 75 birds were seendaily from unusually large numbers at most places The a Black Scoter was at Presque I., Mar. 28 Mar. 3-7 and Mar. 13, 16, 17 (fide AH). A 2 cuckoo speciespresented a checkered pat- (SSt). Sandhill Crane was photographed near the tern of distribution and abundance. In c West Virginia-Pennsylvania line in Preston Pennsylvania at State College there was a RAPTORS--This year 4 locations made County, W.Va., May 16 (W&BB), and five massiveinfestation of gypsy moths and both more or less systematiccoverages of the N were seen at Knoxville Mar. 28 (BSh). cuckoo specieswere abundant (MW). They hawk flights, with some interesting results. A King Rail was seen in Blount County, were abundant at Lock Haven, presumably At Tuscarora Mt., Pa., 1063 hawks were Tenn., Apr. 21-May 16 (m.ob.) and one at for the same reason (PS). Farther s. and w at listed in 28 days of observation with 583 State College, Pa., Apr. 28 (MW, RW) was Marietta they were quite common, corre- Broad-wingeds, 176 Red-taileds, and 134 the second local record. Virginia Rails were sponding to another year of tent caterpillar Sharp-shinneds(CG), at Look Rock, Tenn., reported from Lock Haven Apr. 21 (PS), and outbreak (JS). On the other hand none was 949 hawks in 9 days, with 603 Broad- Williamstown, W.Va., May 14 (CB). seen in Meadville, Pa. (RFL) nor in Morgan-

Volume35, Number 5 823 town, W Va (GAH) and they were scarcein were also nestingin bluebird boxesat Colyer The White-eyed Vireo continuesto appear Harrisonburg, Va. (R.B.C.). Dam, Pa. (KJ), and at Warren, Pa., fully n. of its usual limits with reports from Pres- Barn Owls were reported as nesting near half of the boxes of Operation Bluebird were que I. (m.ob.), Edinboro, Pa. (DS), Pyma- Harrisonburg, Va. (R.B.C.) and at Swan- occupiedby Tree Swallows(WH). A colony tuning L. (RFL), Irvine, Pa. (H J), and Bald nanoa, N.C. (RR), and were reported from of 70 nestsof Cliff Swallowwas at Bald Eagle Eagle S.P. (RW & SB). The Yellow-throated Lock Haven, Pa., and JerseyShore, Pa. (PS S.P., Pa. (RW, SB), and there was a possible Vireo is another speciesthat has slowly de- & CH). A rather belated Snowy Owl was re- new colony near State College, Pa. (K J). clined over much of this Region, but May 24, ported from Slippery Rock, Pa., Apr. 4 8-10 singingmales were counted along a route (RC) Short-cared Owls were present in RAVENS, TITMICE, NUTHATCHES---- in s. Erie County, Pa. (SSt). Bandings of Clarke County, Va., until mid March (RSi), ACom. Raven's nest in Forest County, Pa., Red-eyedVireos at P.N.R. (RCL) and Mor- and a Long-cared Owl was found in Alle- fledged two young (WH), and another nest gantown (GAH) were down slightly from gheny County, Pa., Apr. 13 (DF). A Saw- with two young was found at Natural average,and well down from last year's high whet Owl was heared at Warren, Pa., Mar. 6 Chimney's, Va., May 17 (LT). The fate of the There were more than the usual number of (H J), and as many as threewere heard on the Black-capped Chickadees that occasionally spring reports of Philadelphia Vireos, al- Tennessee-North Carolina line at Newfound irrupt to the s., as they did last fall, is not though none was banded at P.N.R. (RCL) Gap May 16 (J&BC). clearly known, but this spring at least there One at ChattanoogaApr. 25 seemsquite ear- was a N movement at P.N.R., where 55 were ly (LD, RSO. CAPRIMULGIDS THROUGH WOOD- bandedduring the period (RCL). The Boreal PECKERS--There were 2 reports of Chuck- Chickadee mentioned in the last report at WARBLERS--The warbler flight present- will's-widows in the Shenandoah Valley, Warren, Pa., remained until Mar. 26 (WH). ed its usual mixed results. Most places re- Harrisonburg (R.B.C.) and Staunton (RS). There was a good flight of Red-breastedNut- ported poor or only fair flights, but at Whip-poor-wills have disappeared from hatches following last fall's S movement. P.N.R., the numbers, both seenand banded, much of their range in this Region, so the were the best in years(RCL). At that station report of at least 12 callingnear State College WRENS, THRUSHES AND KINGLETS-- 17 species were banded in above-average May 29 (RW) was encouraging,as was the The Carolina Wren is slowly making a come- numbers, 8 in averagenumbers and only 4 in report of them being "locally common" at back after the series of hard winters. The below average numbers. There were no Harrisonburg, Va. (R.B.C.). One was seenat Tennessee localities report about normal outstandingwaves of migrants, and this may Pittsburgh on the early date of Apr. 9 (DR). numbers and in the n. the almost universal accountfor the differenceof opinion between At Powdermill Nature Reserve, Pa. comment was that there were a few more the banders and the binocular birders. The (hereafter,P.N.R.) 47 hummingbirds,double around than last year. On the other hand migration had been very early at the begin- the usual spring numbers, were banded House Wren populationsare booming and at ning, and 20 specieswere presentat P.N.R, (RCL). P.N.R., the spring bandings were 134% Apr. 29 (RCL). However the cool wet Hairy Woodpeckersseem to be headingfor above average (RCL). Once again the Be- weather in early May sloweddown the move- another low population level, which periodi- wick's Wren was almost unmentioned, with ment and it was not until perhaps May 10 that cally occursin this species.On the other hand only one report coming in, from Washington the migration got back onto schedule. From there were many more reports of Red-headed County, Pa., May 28 (DF). then until about May 25, however, the birds Woodpeckersthan usual, and from Presque The Wood Thrush arrived somewhat later moved through in some numbers. Tennessee Isle came a report of a colony of approxi- than normal at most places and was in about Warblers were particularly common in n mately 40 birds (DF). The Red-belliedWood- average numbers, but the other spotted West Virginia and w. Pennsylvania, and at pecker, which has been expandingN seemed thrushes were late and generally in low Morgantown there was a very large flight of to be in lower numbers in Crawford County, numbers.At P.N.R., the bandingsof Swain- Bay-breasted Warblers. A count of 80 Pa, than usual (RFL), but one was seen at son's Thrushes were about average (RCL), Cerulean Warblers listed Apr. 30 at P.N.R Sheffield, Pa., May 8 (CN). A Red-cockaded but at State College (MW), Morgantown was remarkable (RCL & RM). Two other Woodpecker was found at the Catoosa (GAH), and Dalton, Ga. (AH) this species high counts were 300 Yellow Warblers at W M.A., near Chattanooga in late May (DJ was in very low numbers. A Hermit Thrush Presque I., May 9 (DF) and 100 at Pymatun- & JSt). was singingat Knoxville as late as May 12-14 ing L., May 10 (RFL). At the other end of the (J&BM). A Varied Thrush had been present scale Blackpoll Warblers were generally in FLYCATCHERS AND SWALLOWS--A in Allegheny County, Pa., until late Febru- very low numbers. Thirty Mourning W Kingbird was seenat Liberty, Pa., May 31 ary, when it disappeared, but returned Mar. Warblers were banded during the seasonat (FW). In n. West Virginia, E. Kingbirdshave 30-Apr. 5 (EW). P.N.R. (RCL), and one heard singing at become extremely scarce(GAH). At P.N.R., Golden-crownedKinglets have made only a Mountain Lake, Va., May 31 (NM) might ten Yellow-bellied Flycatchers were banded, little recoveryfrom the winter mortality a few have been just a late migrant, but also may about 39% above normal (RCL); two were years back. At Elizabethton, Tenn. (GE), have representeda breeding range extension bandedat PresqueI., May 11 (RFL), and the Lock Haven, Pa. (PS) and s.w. Pennsylvania Southern warbler speciesfound farther n specieswas found near StateCollege, May 24 (PH) numbers were reported as low, but than usual were: Worm-eating, 3 reports at (RW & SB). Nineteen "Traill's" Flycatchers P.N.R. bandingswere above average(RCL). Presque I. (JM); Yellow-breasted Chat, War- were banded at P.N.R. during the season, The Ruby-crownedKinglet is doing some- ren, Pa. (TG), and Kentucky, 4 records at 64% above average (RCL). Both the Willow what better, although still low at Elizabeth- PresqueI. and elsewherein Erie County (JM) and Alder flycatchers were more commonly ton, and Pittsburgh. and Milton S.P., Pa., May 10 & 14 (SS). The reported in migration than usual, but whether chat was considered to be very common in or not they remained to breed awaited later PIPITS, SHRIKES, AND ViREOS--Wa- n.w. Virginia (RSi), but in n. West Virginia it determination. The Olive-sided Flycatcher ter Pipits were reported more widely than is was almost nonexistent(GAH). The Yellow- once nestedwidely through the s. Appalach- usual, and there were May records at State throated Warbler continuesto expand N, and ians but in recent years it has been scarce.On College (K J) and Jonesboro, Tenn. (RK). At was reported from Butler County, Pa., May May 23 one was heard on Gaudineer Knob, Morgantown a few were present Mar. 29-at 19 (GW) and from Presque I., May 9 (DF) W Va., a former nesting site (GAH), and least May 3, where normally they pass Both the Orange-crownedand Connecticut they remain regular along the Alum Cave through in a few days (GAH). warblers were reported more commonly than Bluff trail in the Great Smoky Mts. (SJS, The Loggerhead Shrike has been a margi- is normal in the spring. A Lawrence'shybrid CN0 There were more reports in migration nal speciesin this Region so the following was seenat Athens, W.Va., May 6 (JP), and than usual. reports of nesting, all from Virginia were en- there were 7 reports of Brewster's hybrids The Tree Swallow continues to thrive. couraging: three nestings in n.w. Virginia The most remarkable warbler of the spring, Southward it nested in Buncombe County (RSi), two in RockinghamCounty (R.B.C.), however, was a Kirtland's in Allegheny (2nd record), N.C. (RR), and 5 nestswere lo- and one at Arcadia (BK). There were sight- County May 23, the first w. Pennsylvania cated near Waynesboro, Va., and one near ings in Allegheny County, Pa., May 9 (PH) spring record (DF). Deerfield, Va. (RS). In nearby Rockingham and Butler County, Pa., Apr. 8 (MG & BSr). County five out of 100 bluebird boxes were A N. Shrike was seen in Erie County, Pa., ICTERIDS AND TANAGERS--It was a occupied by Tree Swallows (R.B.C.). They Mar. 7 (JM). banner year for Bobolinks which were report-

824 American Birds, September1981 ed m good numbers all over the Region A were reported from Botetourt County, Va, Anne Hamilton, CharlesHandley (CHa), Ce- Yellow-headed Blackbird was seen at Dan- Apr. 12 (BK), AlleghenyCounty, Pa., Mar. cil Hazlett (CH), John Hemnger (JHe), Mo- wile, Pa., in late April (fide K J). There were 14 (DF), and Johnson City, Tenn. (HD). zelle Henkel, Lois Herndon, Paul Hess, three reportsof Brewer'sBlackbird from w. Other reportscame from the area wherethey Roger & Margaret Higbee, William H•gh- Pennsylvania(fide PH). nested last year on Shenandoah Mt., Va. house, Jamie Hill (JH), Kendrick Hodgdon, A Summer Tanager at Fox Chapel, Pa., (R.B.C.) and from Mountain L., Va., May Daniel Jacobson, Wesley James, Hams May 17 (DF) waswell n. of the normallimits. 31 (FS et al.), indicating a possiblenesting Johnson,Katherine Jones,David Kerr, Barry there. The movement of Purple Finches was Kinzie, Rick Knight, Chuck & Zettie Krantz, FRINGILLIDS--A Dickcissel remained at good, and House Finches continue to in- YuLee Larner, Robert C. Leberman, Ronaid W. Mifflin, Pa., Mar. 5-Apr. 9 (MS) and an- creasein population. They have becomeex- F. Leberman, Mary Leberman (ML), Barry other was at Marietta, O., Mar. 17-May 1 (JS tremelycommon within the city limits of Pitts- Levaas, Mary Lovett (MLo), John Martin & RP). The Blue Grosbeak continues to burgh (KP), and the first nest was found (JMa), James & Betty Mason, Jerry thrive in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, (later destroyedby a cat) at Jonesboro,Tenn. McWilliams (JM), David Middleton, Nor- and one was seenat StateCollege, Pa., May 5 (GE). wood Middleton, Robert Mulvihill, John (MLo & MW). A Clay-coloredSparrow was Henslow's Sparrow has been declining Murray, Charles Neel (CN), Chuck bandedat Saegertown,Pa., May 5 (TP), and throughout its range in this Region in recent Nicholson (CNi), Paul Pardue, Kenneth an "Oregon" Junco was seenin Allegheny years,and so the report of a colonyof about Parkes, Tom Patton, David Pearson, J•m County Apr. 13 (DF). a dozen pairs nesting at P.N.R. was good Phillips, Rosalie Pitner, Mike Purdy, Rock- EveningGrosbeaks remained in the Region news(RCL). This specieswas seen near Chat- ingham Bird Club (R.B.C.), David Roell until early May. The flight of Pine Siskins tanooga, Tenn., Apr. 26 (m.ob.). (DR), David Roland (DRo), Robert Rmz, was extremelyheavy at most placesin late Marshall Schick, Paul Schwaibe,Fred Scott, April and early May. Siskins nested at CONTRIBUTORS--Jackson Abbott, Boyd Sharp (BSh), Robert Simpson (RS0, P.N.R., for the first time (RCL) and at State Marc Armstrong, Wendy & Brian Bailey, Dennis Smeltzer (DSm), Donald Snyder College, Pa. (MW) and Irvine, Pa. (TG) fe- JamesBruce, Ralph Bell, Chuck Bernstein, (DS), Ruth Snyder (RS), StanleyStahl (SS), male siskins with brood patches were cap- Scott Bills, James Bruce, Lois Callahan, Betty Starr (BSr), Barbara Stedman (BS), tured, indicatingbreeding at those places. James& Betty Campbell, Ray Chandler, Lin- Steven J. Stedman (SJS), Randy Stringer There were also several late May records da Christenson(LC), Ellie Cochran, Chuck (RSt), Jerie Stewart (JS), Karl Stried, Sam from Great Smoky Mountains N.P., indicat- Conrad, Ruth Crawford (RC), Martha Dil- Stull (SSt), Jo Stone(JSt), LeonardTeuber, ing a possibilityof nestingthere (SJS & BS). lenbeck, Helenhill Dove, Ken Dubke, Lil Forrest Watkins, Evaieen Watko (EW), Da- Of the other n. specieswhich came S last win- Dubke, Court Eakin, Glen Eller, Ada Ellis, vid White, Gene Wilhelm, Cora Wilhams, ter the only report of Com. Redpollcame Robert & Diane English, Kathleen Finnegan, Erika Wilson, Rick Wiltraut, Merrill Wood, from Sheffield, Pa. (fide WB); a lone White- Jim Flynn, David Freehind,Alice Fuller, Carl Charles Ziegenfus.--GEORGE A. HALL, wingedCrossbill was seenat W. Springfield, Garner, Rod Gehrlein, Marguerite Geibel, Div. of Forestry (Mail Address: Dept. of Pa, Mar. 31 (AE & SSt); and Red Crossbills Sally Goodin, Ted Grisez, Norris Gluck, Chemistry), West Virginia Univ., Morgan- town WV 26506.

WESTERN GREAT LAKES and wet the entire month, and with Minne- tion, although there were only a few note- sota dry initially and rainy at month's end worthy rarities, with a good wave May 16 REGION while cold and warm fronts alternated all statewide and an exceptional concentratxon /Kim R. Eckert month long. Cooler than usual temperatures of migrants grounded in the fog and ram at were the rule in May, although such condi- Duluth May 23-25. In the following report, tions in Michigan were confined to the first placenames in italicsare counties. It is difficult to sum up the weatherand mi- part of the month; meanwhileMay in Minne- gration of this variable and inconsistent sota was mostly wet, in Wisconsin mostly LOONS AND GREBES--Common Loons spring. Each of this Region's three states dry, and in Michigan mostly normal. were relatively scarce across Michigan, wxth seemedto have been reporting on different Just as the weather varied from state to the season total of 1314 at Whitefish Pt Bird seasons,and what they had to report bor- state, so did the migration, with little agree- Observatory (hereafter, W.P.B.O.) down dered on the incoherent. March was about ment as to how interesting the birding was. considerably from last year (M J). Red- the only month all seemedto agree on: the There was consensus that the mild weather of throated Loons have been very elusive xn warm and generallydry conditionsof the pre- February and March resultedin an early mi- Minnesota in recent years, so it was of par- wous winter continued virtually everywhere. gration at first (in Minnesotait wasabout the ticular interest that four individuals were But by April it becameconfusing, with Mich- earliestwaterfowl migration ever with all but found on L. Superior, one Apr. 29 and two xganwarmer than normal at first and then a few speciesrecorded by March 1), but be- May 25 at Duluth (KE), and another May 24 cooler later on, with Wisconsin mostly warm yond that a consistentdescription was lack- at Two Harbors (J. Church). Also unusual ing. Michigan re- was a sightingfrom inland WisconsinMay 14 Lake of the • ported a "basically in Taylor (SR). Red-necked Grebes proved dismal" season, al- scarcer than normal in Michigan, with the though the number of only reports from W.P.B.O. Eared Grebes species reported was wandered E to 4 Wisconsin locations after a more than normal and ULT STE MARIE hiatus of a year, and were even more note- there were some ex- worthy at Muskegon, Mich., Apr. 4 and May ceptionalrarities. Wis- 5-16 (m.ob.) and in Berrien May 25 (WB) consin's spring was There was also an unusual concentration of mostly lackluster, es- 200 at Swan L., Nicollet Co., Minn., May 15 pecially among shore- (JFr). Western Grebes in Chippewa, Wxs, birds and thrushes, May 7 (JPo) and in MinneapolisMay 6 (SC) with waves reported were farther e. than normal. May 3 and again the last week of May. PELICANS THROUGH IBISES--A Meanwhile, Minne- White Pelican was found May 29-30 at L sota had a relatively Gogebic in Michigan's Upper Peninsula interesting migra- (hereafter,U.P.) (JM). Double-crestedCor-

Volume 35, Number 5 825 morants were again noted to be connnmng LacsL,Apr 11 (SE) (LG) There was a good peak of 120 Black- their "remarkable increase in numbers" in bellted Plovers May 22 in Macomb, Mlch many Wisconsin areas. The usual few Little FALCONIFORMES--Michigan again re- (RL). Whimbrels were found in lower num- Blue Herons, Cattle and Snowy egrets were porteda surprisinglygood movement of Tur- bersthan usual, especiallyin Michigan where noted from all 3 states; the Cattle Egrets Apr. key Vultures, with a peak of 42 at Sleeping the only reportwas May 20, the first ever for 11-26 in Aitkin, Minn. (WN) were unusually Bear Nat'l LakeshoreApr. 11 (CaF). Sub- the Lansing area (m.ob.). More than the far n, and a Snowy Egret Apr. 10 at Carlos adult MississippiKites were well-documented usual number of Upland Sandpipersappear- Avery W.M.A., Minn. (KL) provided a rec- at W.P.B.O., May 24 (M J), a first Michigan ed in Michigan. Solitary Sandpipers were ord early arrival date. The population of record from an unlikely n. locality, and at more common than usual in Minnesota-- these three "southern" herons has seemed to Oxbow P., Olmstead, Minn., May 18 (V. there was also a record arrival date for Michi- level off in recent years in the Region; if any- Herring), a fourth state record. W.P.B.O. gan of Mar. 31 in Kalamazoo(DP), and Wll- thing, the number of sightings,especially at monitored a good Sharp-shinned Hawk lets were more in evidence than normal heronries, may be declining. Great Egrets movement with a season total of 10,000+ throughout, especiallyin Wisconsin where again appeared at 3 n. Minnesota locations; counted, and a peak of 2450 May 4; other flocks of up to 40 were found and in Duluth Apr 10-11 in Duluth (KE), May 3+ at season-longcounts here included2686 Red- where an unusual concentration of 12 turned AgassizN.W.R. (m.ob.), and May 20 in Ro- taileds (peak of 344 Apr. 11), 24 Red- up May 14 (P. Hofslund). PectoralSandpip- seau (B J). Louisiana Herons were reported shouldereds,1060 Rough-leggeds(peak of ers proved almost abundant in Michigan, from all 3 states: the one at Carlos Avery 218 Apr. 12-13),275 MarshHawks (peak of while all 3 statesrecorded very early individ- W M A., Minn., May 4-8 (R. Joarnt) fur- 47 May 4), 81 Ospreys,23 Merlins, and 601 uals within a day of Mar. 28--there was even rushed only the fourth state record; Wis- Am. Kestrels (peak of 145 May 4) (M J). a sightingMar. 20 at Detroit (AK) and a peak consln's seventh record was of one which There were the usual few reports of Broad- of 500 + in by Mar. 29 at Pt. Mouillee near ranged between Sheboygan May 8 (HK) and wingedHawk peaksin the 300-800range in Detroit (BL). Buff-breastedSandpipers are Rush L., May 27-30 (TB,TZ); while Michigan late April, noneof thesefrom the Port Huron not usuallyencountered in spring,so the two reported birds May 2 in Allegan (BM), May or Duluth areas.Either thesereports consti- Apr. 11 in Ingham,Mich. (DB) andthe single 3-8 in Monroe (EC,G&MB), and May 19 in tute "one of the truly spectacularbird migra- May 29 in Door, Wis. (ST) were interesting Macomb (A&SR). A Black-crowned Night tions in North America" (AB 34:752), or this Marbled Godwits wandered E as far as Du- Heron Mar. 8 at Black Dog L., Minn. (SC) Region's observershave failed in their re- luth May 15 (GP,SC), Brown May 17 (DT) furnished a record arrival date, although sponsibilityto reportthe drasticdecline of and Ashland May 20 (DV), both in Wiscon- there is the possibilitythat it had overwin- Broad-wingedHawks which, we are told by sin, and all the way to Michigan at Iosco May tered Although there has not been a Yellow- Massachusettsexperts, are supposedto have 16, at the Maple River Game Area May 22 crowned Night Heron nesting record in Min- at least three "very important crossing" (CE) and at SeneyN.W.R., May 25 (LG) nesota since the colony at La Crescent dis- points in the WesternGreat Lakes Region Hudsontans were also noteworthy in Michi- bandeda few yearsago., this specieshas been (AB 34:751). Three Swainson'sHawks were gan with as many as six in Delta May 14-16 seen more frequently at more locations in s. seenin Wisconsin:Apr. 11 in Marathon (SR), (C&BT,LW). Sightingsof Ruffs hereformer- Minnesota recently--this spring there were Apr. 18 at HoriconN.W.R. (DT) andMay 30 ly rated particular attention, but now this seven records. Both Least and Am. bitterns in Mayfield (DV). Three Golden Eagles in speciesis virtually a regular visitant; this appeared to be up in numbers in Michigan. Wisconsinand eight in Michiganrepresented springsub-adult males were found May 14-16 The casual White-faced Ibis was seenMay 30 a good movement; it was also noteworthy in Chippewa, Wis. (JPo et al.), and in Ma- at Breckenridge, Minn. (JP, AM) while that three Bald Eagle nestswere found at the comb, Mich., May 12-16(A&SR,HJ). Ameri- another ibis (presumably, but not automati- traditional, but still unusually far s., site in can Avocetsturned up as far e. as Milwaukee cally, a White-faced) was spotted May 3 in Houston, Minn. (fide FL). Apr. 29 (m.ob.), Vermillion, Mich., May 9 Cottonwood, Minn. (m.ob.). (WL et al.), and at the Erie Marsh, Monroe BOBWHITE THROUGH GALLINULES May 8 (G&MB)--these lastreports the first in WATERFOWL--For the second consecu- --After two relativelymild and snowlesswin- Michigan in 5 springs.More than the usual tive spring, wild Mute Swansappeared sever- ters, the reports of Bobwhites from Blue number of Wilson's Phalaropes were seen in al times in Duluth (KE), apparently wander- Mounds S.P., in May in extremes.w. Minne- Michigan; there was also a noteworthyreport lng acrossL. Superior from Ashland, Wis., sota (SM et al.), wherethis specieshas not from Duluth May 13 (KE). where a small feral population has been es- been found in decades, is most intriguing. tabhshed for at least 20 years. Four individ- While there is the possibilitythese were es- JAEGERS THROUGH TERNS--Most uals were also seen in Superior in May, with capes,the birdsseen were quite wary and thus surprisingwas an unidentifiedjaeger May 23 an apparentlymated pair remaininginto June it is more likely they moved in under favor- at Duluth (D. Hojnacki); although jaegers (mob.). Meanwhile this aggresiveswan con- able climatological conditions from n.w. are regular here in fall, springrecords are vtr- tinues to increase and spread in Michigan's Iowa or s.e. South Dakota. In Michigan, tually nonexistent.Inland GlaucousGulls ap- Lower Peninsula (hereafter, L.P.). The Bobwhite numbers were somewhat higher, pearedMar. 1 at La Crosse(FL) and Mar 23 Whistling Swan migration through Wisconsin but still down from earlier years. Published at Helmer Myre S.P., Minn. (D&WM). Great was again describedas disappointing,but at rangemaps to the contrary,King Rails con- Black-backedGulls again were found along Duluth the concentrationof 1500Apr. 11 was tinued their scarce to nonexistent status in the L. Michigan at 3 Michigan locations. A the largest ever here (KE et al.). Several s. half of the Region; the only record was Thayer's Gull Mar. 15 in Blue Earth, Minn Whitefronted Geeseappeared at locationsin May 16 in Rock, Wis. (DT). On the other wasperhaps the first ever in Minnesotas of the e half of the Region, with the most sur- hand, the elusive Yellow Rail proved less so the Twin Cities (BJ). Laughing Gulls were prising record May 7 in Houghton in Michi- this spring:one was found May 5 at Walker- seen at St. Joseph, Mich., May 13-17 (WB, gan's U.P. (A&DW). A very high concentra- ville, Mich. (LW), anotherwas at Fish Lake RS) and at MilwaukeeMay 5 (m.ob.). After a tion of 3000 Pintail was found May 30 at W.M.A., Burnett, Wis., May 23 (DT), while hiatus of one year, three ad. Little Gulls ap- ShlawasseeN.W.R., Mich. (DF), and there in Minnesota, besides the traditional Mc- peared at Duluth May 9 & 23 (KE,DR); stx was a good count of 2200+ Ruddy Ducks Gregor site, rails were heard May 16 at Carlos adults also reappearedat the Two Rivers- Apr 18 at L. Erie Metropark near Detroit Avery W.M.A. (KL), an usuals. locale, and Manitowoc, Wis., nestingarea Apr. 27, but (BL), other than thesereports the waterfowl May 23 in Wilkin, where they were unexpec- no nestingactivity was reported(JS). Three migration was generally disappointingeven tedly found last summer (KE). A very cooper- CaspianTerns at TawasPt., Mich., Apr 12 though it was extremely early. An uncharac- ative Purple Gallinule remained in a marsh were extremely early (DP,TS). terlstlcally cooperative Cinnamon Teal re- near Milwaukee Apr. 25-May 14, represent- mained in a Douglas, Minn., pothole Apr. ing only the fifth Wisconsinrecord (EC et OWLS--An unprecedentednumber of 25-May 20 where it was seen and photo- al.). SnowyOwls lingeredwell into May at several graphedby many.Scoters, especially White- locations: singleswere found on each of 4 wingeds, were mostly down in numbers SHOREBIRDS--Two Piping PloversApr. daysMay 15-18,three in Michiganand one m throughout the Region, but there was a maxi- 17 in Nobles, Minn., representeda record ar- Wisconsin;another lingereduntil May 23 at mum of 150+ White-wingeds at W.P.B.O., rival date (BL); also very early was an Am. W.P.B.O. (M J), while another apparently May 20, and an early individual was at Mille Woodcock Mar. 12 in Grand Traverse, Mich. healthySnowy appeared in late May in Clark

826 American Birds, September 1981 in c Wisconsin and incredibly stayed into in the n half of Michigan Gray Catbirds waukee(DG) The usualfew Kentucky Warb- June (K&JL et al.)! Banders at W.P.B.O. were quite early Mar. 25 at StoneyCr. Metro- lers, Yellow-breasted Chats and Hooded had a good season,netting a Great Gray Owl park, Mich. (RD), and Apr. 16 at Marshall, Warblers were noted in Michigan and Wis- May 7 (WL), a remarkabletotal of 142Long- Minn. (HK); also very early was a Brown consin, but among these the lone Minnesota eare•ls,and 50 Saw-whets.A GreatGray also Thrasher Apr. I in Stearns, Minn. (NH). representativewas a singingcy Hooded which showedup in Price, Wis., in mid-May (MH et returned to last year's site at Prior L. al), and while the usual few Great Grays THRUSHES THROUGH SHRIKES--As were seen in n. Minnesota none apparently mentionedearlier, the migration of thrushes ICTERIDS THROUGH TOWHEES-- remained to nest in Aitkin where several nests in many parts of the Regionwas weak, al- Yellow-headed Blackbirds were reported were found in 1980. A total of six Boreal though in Minnesota there were three re- from no fewer than 12 Michigan countiesand Owls was heard Mar. 27-Apr. 28 in their markably early arrivals: both Wood and were seenin increasednumbers in many parts "traditional" nestingarea alongthe Gunflint Gray-cheekedthrushes Apr. 11 in Washing- of Minnesota. Orchard Orioles were found at Trail, Cook, Minn., but attempts to locate a ton (B. Jung),and a Swainson'sThrush Apr. 3 Detroit area locations where the speciesis nest were again unsuccessful(K&MH,TS, 10 in Roseville(RH). EasternBluebirds were said to be very unusual (fide AK). Another KE). Six is the most heard here since 1978 generally scarcein Michigan, especiallyin W. Tanagerwas seenin Minnesotawhere the when 15 were heard and the only nest was Kalamazoo after a cold snap killed severalin speciesis casual;a male appearedat a feeder found--none was heard in 1979 and one was mid-April (RA). The Mountain Bluebird re- in North Oaks Apr. 30-May 9 (m.ob.). Sum- heard in 1980. It is also important to note tained its rare but regularstatus in Minnesota mer Tanagerswere also reported: in Michi- that although the good numbers heard in with a pair seen in Roseau Mar. 27-30 gan at Buchanan late April-May 7 (WB), in 1978 followed an unprecedentedwinter in- (F&DS). Early Blue-grayGnatcatchers were suburban Detroit May 8-16 (JF, TH), and at flux, the six Borealsthis spring were defin- found in all 3 states: Apr. 5 in Macomb, St. JosephMay 25 (WB), at Superior May 24 itely not "left-overs" from a winter invasion Mich. (RL), Apr. 11 in Milwaukee(RG), and (DT), and at Frontenac, Minn., May 9 sinceonly one was recordedthis past winter. April in Wabasha,Minn. (J&SD). Gnatcat- (m.ob.). A 9 Black-headedGrosbeak may An unusual number of Saw-whets was seen chers were also farther n. than usual with have been seen May 16 at Benton Harbor, and heard in s. Minnesota under circum- eight at W.P.B.O., May 3-19 (M J), and Mich., although most birders are unaware stances that suggestedpossible nesting in unusuallyfar w. with a pair building a nest that many •5 Rose-breastedGrosbeaks can somecases (this owl is known to nestonly in (later abandoned)May 19 at Blue Mounds have very buffy and relatively unstreaked n Minnesota)--the most interestingof these S.P. (SM). Both WaterPipit andLoggerhead underparts.The rarestof the Minnesotarari- reports was of one netted May 21 at Afton Shrike were seen more often than usual in ties had to be the cy Lazuli Buntings in Cook which had been banded here Oct. 19, 1980 Minnesota, but in Wisconsin there were only one was photographedat a Lutsen feeder in (D&MB). three migrant LoggerheadShrikes reported late May, and another (possibly the same all season, with no nesting pairs seen bird?) was seen20 mi away in Grand Marals WHIP-POOR-WILL THROUGH FLY- anywhere:"a suddendismal picture." May 26 (M&KH). An undocumentedHouse CATCHERS--An Apr. 12 Whip-poor-will Finch was reported in East Lansing, Mlch, heard in Houston, Minn., was the earliest VIREOS AND WARBLERS--Five White- May 18, a very late Pine Grosbeak was seen ever (E&MF); there were also a few others eyed Vireos were reported in s. Wisconsin, May 31 at W.P.B.O., and Wisconsin'sfirst heard earlier than normal in the state. A con- eightwere s6en in s. Michigan,but Minnesota Gray-crowned Rosy Finch reappearedat the centration of 1500 Chimney Swifts was seen had its usual total of zero. However, s.e. Dunn feeder after a few weeks' absence enteringa chimneyin Ottawa, Mich. (BM). Minnesota did manage an above-average where it was seenand photographed by many PdeatedWoodpeckers were again noted to be total of six Bell's Vireos. Yellow-throated (JRu). It would be well to note that a season increasingin Michigan. Unusual in Minne- Vireos were also up in numbers in the Detroit total of 329 redpolls banded in Marquette, sota were a Com. (Red-shafted)Flicker Mar. area (fide AK), and in Duluth, where at least Mich., includednot a singleHoary (NI). Pine 16 in Nicollet (JFr), and an out-of-range Red- four singingmales were seenMay 13 + (KE); Siskins, some of which appeared to be nest- bellied Woodpecker May 22-24 in Two Har- a Yellow-throated was also seen May 21 in ing, were again being seenthroughout May at bors (J. Church). Also from Minnesotacame PorcupineMountains S.P. (JM), an extreme- several s. locations in the Region. White- 4 reports of the usuallyelusive N. Three-toed ly rare occurrencefor the U.P. Very earlyfor winged Crossbillswere still presentin Mani- Woodpecker.A few W. Kingbirdsturned up n. Minnestoa was a Red-eyed Vireo Apr. 26 towoe May 16 (JS) and in Ashland May 31 farther e. than normal May 22-28 at Duluth, at Aitkin (WN); also extremely early was a (DV). Rufous-sidedTowhees are normally at two Wisconsinsites, and as far as Muske- Prothonotary Warbler Apr. 19 near Detroit rare in Duluth, but this May six were reported gon S.P., Mich. (GW). Both E. Phoebeand (JF). Eight Worm-eating Warblers were re- (fide KE). Olive-sidedFlycatcher were noted as scarcein ported at 6 Michigan sites,six were seenat 3 Michigan. Minnesota's seventhSay's Phoebe Wisconsin locations, while in Minnesota, SPARROWS THROUGH SNOW BUNT- record was of a singing male at the Felton where the speciesis only casual, the lone re- ING--A Le Conte's Sparrow was very early prairie May 17 (KE); almost as interesting port was May 5 at Austin (R&RK). Early for Apr. 4 in Milwaukee, and also here on the was a Willow Flycatchermuch farther n. than Wisconsinwere a Blue-wingedWarbler Apr. same date was the earliest Sharp-tailed Spar- usual in Delta County May 27 in the U.P. 29 in Dane County (ST), and a N. Parula row ever in Wisconsin (DG, JI). Henslow's (C&BT). Apr. 11 in Milwaukee (DG); parulas were Sparrows were described as quite scarce in also described as more common than usual in Michigan, but one was unusually far n. May SWALLOWS THROUGH MIMIDS--An Michigan. Very unusualfor s.w. Minnesota 4 in St. Cloud, Minn. (NH). Also farther n impressivecount of 10,000+ Tree Swallows was a Black-throated Blue Warbler May 25 at than usual was a Field Sparrow at Duluth was made Apr. 26 at Maple River Game Lake Shetek S.P. (A. DeKam). Fewer Yel- May 9 (KE). Easily the most excitingrarity Area, Mich. (A&SR), and a Cliff Swallow 1ow-rumpedWarblers than normal were seen this seasonin the Regionwas Michigan's first Mar. 30 in Eau Claire, Wis., provided a rec- in Minnesota (almost a blessing),but most MeCown's Longspur which remained at ord arrival date (JPo). Blue Jays were de- noteworthy was an "Audubon's" Warbler W.P.B.O., May 27-29 and was seenand pho- scribed as "down from last year" in Michi- found Apr. 25 in Stearns, Minn. (NH). A tographedby many (LT et al.); it was also at gan even though a peak of 1500 passed Black-throated Green Warbler was very early Whitefish Pt., last May that Michigan re- W.P.B.O. (M J) and more than 3000 moved Apr. 12 in Ingham, Mich. (LD). A Yellow- corded its first Chestnut-collaredLongspur throughBerrien on 6 daysin early May (WB). throated Warbler, about the 12th for Wiscon- Smith's Longspursmoved through w.c. Min- A count of 226 Boreal Chickadees was made sin, was seen May 21 in Kenosha (NC); an- nesotaApr. 25-26 when two were seenin Wtl- May 2-29 at W.P.B.O., with a peak of 32 on other•arginal southernspecies, the Prairie kin (JP&AM) and no fewer than 25 were seen May 20 (M J). The Detroit area still reporteda Warbler, was representedin Michigan by re- in Big Stone (KE, DR). Several late Snow lack of Winter Wrens--only two sightings, ports May 7 in Leelanau (MO) and May 20 in Buntings remained in Michigan May 16-22, and Carolina Wrens--only one report May Newago (SM), and in Wisconsinby two sing- and a record departure date for Wisconsin 16 (CB), but a Carolina Wren was found un- ing males on apparentbreeding territory in occurredMay 25 in Racine (FL). usually far n. among the migrants grounded Fond du Lac May 9 + (TSc et al.). Louisiana at Duluth May 23 (KL). More than the usual Waterthrushes were extremely early Apr. 4 at CORRIGENDUM AND ADDENDUM-- number of Mockingbirds was seen, especially Reno, Minn. (JP&AM), and Apr. 9 in Mil- Delete the Brant reported Oct. 12 in Wtlktn,

Volume35, Number 5 827 Minn. (AB) A belatedreport of an obviouscy zynski, Ed and Patty Pike, *James Ponshair, Beimborn, Jo Blanich, Don Bolduc, Jerry Vermilion Flycatcherat a Duluth feederOct. David Powell, Ross Radke, Chris Rogers, Bonkoski, Steve Carlson, Jane Cliff, Joanne 26-Nov. 8 (S. Berguson),represented only the Alan & Susan Ryff, Roy Smith, Tom Dempsey, Joel & Sandy Dunnette, Kim Eck- second Minnesota record. Smythe, C. Sweany, *Charlotte & Bill Tay- err, Steve Elfelt, Mrs. L. Fell, Eugene & lor, Laurel Tucker, L. Walkinshaw, Arthur & Marllynn Ford, Joan Fowler, John Frentz Dorothy Weaver, Stan Wellso, GeorgeWick- (JFr), Merrill Frydendall, Janet Green, CONTRIBUTORS (state editors in bold- strom, Harold Wiles, Charles & Lucile Wil- Thomas Hargy, Nestor Hiemenz, Ken & Mol- face)--Michigan (*indicates regional kinson, Joan Wolfe, Jim Zabotny; Wiscon- ly Hoffman, Robert Holtz, James Howitz, editors): *Ray Adams, *Tom After, John sin: Jim Anderson, Jim Baughman, Thomas Bob Janssen, Oscar Johnson, Ron & Rose Baumgartner, Don Beaver, Glenn & Mary- Bett, Mary Butterbrodt, Eugene Cupertino, Kneeskern,Henry Kyllingstad, Ken LaFond, anne Betyea, *Walter Booth, Curtis Brad- Noel Cutright, Jim Frank, DennisGustafson, Fred Lesher, Bill Litkey, Don & Wynn burn, E. T. Cox, R. D. DeCew, Louis Drom- Ron Gutschow, Maybelie Hardy, James Mahle, Steve Millard, Clare Mobs, Warren broski, Chuck Elzinga, Les Ford, Jim Fow- Hoetier, John Idzikowski, Robby Johnson, Nelson, Gary & Marion Omes, Jori Peterson ler, Jr., Chip Francke (ChF), Carl Freeman Harold Koopman, Tom Kroeger, Fred & Ann McKenzie, Greg Pietila, Dick Ruhrne, (CaF), Dave Frisk, Ethel Getgood,Leonard Lesher, Ken & Jan Luepke, Roy & Charlotte Terry Savaloja, SteveSchon, Keith'& Shelley Graf, Bill Grigg, *Lynn Harper, Tom Heat- Lukes, Lisa MacLaren, Jon Peterson, Mark Steva, Frank & Doreen Swendsen, Steve ley, Judy Herbig, *Nick Ilnicky, Harley Peterson, Janine Polk (JPo), Sam Robbins, Wilson. There were also 189 other contribu- Johnston, Mike Jorae, *Frank Kangas, Joe Rocke, John Russell(JRu), Tom Schultz tors (126 from Michigan, 29 from Wisconsin, *Alice Kelley, Warren Lamb, R. Leasure, (TSc), Martin Smith, Jim Steffen, Tom 34 from Minnesota) whose observationsdid ThomasLeggett, Bill Leonard,Bill Martinus, Sykes, Daryl Tessen, Steven Thiessen, Dick not directly contribute to the preparation of *Joe McDonnell, Dan Miller, Steve Minard, Vcrch, Lee Voltz, Winnie Woodmansee, this report.--KIM R. ECKERT, 9735 North Chris Mullin, Martha Olson, Michael Pec- Thomas Ziebell; Minnesota: Don & Mary Shore Dr., Duluth, MN 55804.

MIDDLEWESTERN PRAIRIE of May. While the above normal precipita- Columbus May 19-22 ('[JF, m.ob.--ph.). REGION tion was badly needed in drought-stricken Western Grebes appeared at 3 Iowa locations westernstates, it put a noticeabledamper on May 8-14 with a maximum of eight at Trum- / Bruce G. Peterjohn the migration. May migrantsarrived on time bull L., May 11 (MB, RC). Pied-billed or a little late, moving through the Region in Grebes were widespread but the only large a steady, unspectacularstream. The routine concentrationwas of 150 at S.C.R. in April Spring migrations are enigmatic. Bird May migration was rather disappointing (L). White Pelicans remained in w. states movements are dependent upon regional and when compared to the excitement generated where maximums of 300-400 appeared at 2 local weather trends and local habitat condi- by the April rarities. Missouri and 2 s.w. Iowa locations Mar. tions, creating a complex and often contra- As usual, all extraordinary sight records 31-Apr. 18. An ad. Gunner at Monroe Res., dictory pattern of observationsthat defy de- must be thoroughly documentedat the time Ind., Apr. 18 ('[TA) providedthe state'sthird tailed analysis. This spring was no exception. of observation. All documented records have record. Double-crested Cormorant was While some areas experienced exceptional beendenoted by a dagger(.[). widespread, an indication of its continued birding, particularly Iowa, Illinois and south- recovery. Largest concentrations were central Indiana, other areas had a dull migra- ABBREVIATIONS--S.C.R.: Squaw 100-250 at 4 Iowa locations and 30-60 at one tion noted for a lack of concentrations of mi- Creek N.W.R., Mo.; O.W.R.: Ottawa Ohio and 5 Illinois sites. Lessernumbers ap- grants. N.W.R., O.; M.M.W.A.: Magee Marsh peared in other states. An ad. Anhinga at The warm, dry weather of late February W.M.A., O.: Spfld.: Springfield, II1.: Horse- Mingo N.W.R., Mo., Apr. 19 ('[SS, TW) was continued through March, culminating in shoe Lake, Madison Co., Ill. unusual. record-breaking temperatures at the end of the month. The first half of April was simi- LOONS THROUGH ANHINGA--Com- HERONS•Most herons appeared in good larly warm and dry, weather more typical of mon Loons appeared in Ohio Mar. 21 and numbers although Great Egrets were scarcein late May than early spring. Not surprisingly, elsewhere by early April. No more than ten many areas. The mild early springweather in- this warm weather was accompanied by a were reported from any location and itiated an early migration; noteworthy early large number of early arriving species.Strong customary small numbers of nonbreeding records included a Green Heron at Chicago westerly and southwesterlywinds were preva- birds lingered into June. Reports of rarer Apr. 9 (RGo, PC), Cattle Egrets at Carbon- lent throughout both months and undoubted- loons included a breeding-plumagedAretic dale, Ill., Mar. 30 ('[DR), Cook County, Ill., ly aided the arrival of the western strays Loon at Amana L., Ia., Apr. 28 (.[CB, Apr. 2 (PD) and Cincinnati Apr. 4 (KM) and observed during these months or shortly .[m.ob.) and singleRed-throateds at Thomas a Great Egret in Champaign County, Ill., thereafter. Hill Res., Mo., Mar. 7 (.[SS, TBk) and Mar. 4 (BC). Weather patterns changed dramatically Monroe Res., Ind., Apr. 25-May 3 (fide SG). Increasedreports of Little Blue Herons in- during the latter half of April. The warm, dry Red-necked Grebes were only observed in eluded 200 at the Madison County, Ill., col- weather was replacedby cool and wet condi- iowa, singles at Waterloo Apr. 12 ('[RM, ony (RK) and 40 at Ballard W.M.A., Ky., tions with predominantly northerly winds. '[FM) and Trumbull L., May 8 ('[MB). Horn- May I I (JEI, LR). Elsewhere, five or fewer These conditions prevailed throughout most ed Grebes were scarce at most localities; were noted at 9 Iowa, 5 Ohio, 5 Indiana and 8 largest concentrations Illinois locations. Similar numbers of Cattle were 88 at Cleveland Egrets were observed. Korotev estimated 275 Apr. 13 (M) and 20-35 at the Madison County, Ill., heronry while 26 at several inland sites. appeared at Springfield, Mo., Apr. 19 (fide Lured Grebes were fair- CBo), 23 at O.W.R. in May and 10-20 at 5 ...... _ 2 ...... ly numerous with re- other sites.Up to eight Snowy Egretsremain- ports from all statesex- ed at HorseshoeL. in May (PS). One-to-three •uin-- Indianapoli, cept Kentucky Mar. appeared at single locations in the other 20-May 31. An im- states. Single Louisiana Herons were ob- •""•'"•••n•.•:• %•'•:;•' Ci• •_ ILLß • '•..... •"'••:------'•j•l pressive mid-May influx servedat ColumbusApr. 28-30 ('[JF, m.ob.) •i• brought 39 to S.C.R., and GibsonCounty, Ind., May 17 ('[LH). Mi- May 15 (L, MRo), 18 to grant Black-crowned Night Herons were s.w. Iowa May 13 (T, widespread with peaks of 85 at L. Renwick, RS), 10-14 at 3 Illinois Ill., Apr. 26 (WM) and 64 at Falls of the locations May 11-15 Ohio, Ky., May 9 (LR). It was an excellent (LH, H) and one E to spring for Yellow-crowned Night Herons

828 AmericanBirds, September1981 with reports from at least 36 locations. Least were regularlyreported from inland locations including early birds at Upper Iowa R., Ia., Bitterns were observed at 21 sites, a normal in all states as observers have become familiar Mar. 4 (fide DN) and Busch W.M.A., Mo., number for spring. Greater numbersof Am. with their identification. Mar. 7 (EL). Most were found in April and Bitterns were encountered although still Oldsquaw were very scarce. The only May. The Lawrenceville, Ill., Prairie Falcon scarcein many areas. White-faced Ibises in- reportswere one or two at 3 n. Ohio locations lingered through Mar. 8 (LH). Reports of 11 vaded w. Iowa with 14 at L. Manawa May 13 Mar. 24-Apr. 29 (M, JP) and one at Indiana- Peregrine Falcons and six Merlins were nor- (BR, •'T, RS), two at Willow Slough May 19 polis Mar. 12 (MR). SingleHarlequin Ducks mal for spring. Few were adequately (•'BW) and two at Taylor L., May 21 (BW, were noted at Chicago Mar. 5-Apr. 4 (•'PC, documented. RS, BR). Elsewhere, singles were reported RGo, JL) and Loraln, O., Mar. 12 (•'JP) from Swan Lake N.W.R., Mo., May 4 (SS, while two lingered at Cleveland Mar. 13-Apr. CRANES THROUGH GALLINULES-- TBk), S.C.R., May 31 (•-L) and Horseshoe 29 (M). Small numbers of White-winged Large numbersof Sandhill Cranesare normal L., May 16 (•'PS et al.). Unidentified ibises Scotersmigrated along the Great Lakes in Il- in n.w. Indiana but this year's flight in n.e. Il- were noted at one Iowa and two Ohio loca- linois and Ohio. Inland, two were observed at linois was unusually impressive with 373 at tions. For all Plegadis ibises, observers Louisville Mar. 1-22 (AB) and one at Thomas Palos Mar. 21 (JL) and "thousands" in s. should carefully note coloration of the legs, Hill Res., Mo., Mar. 7 (SS, TBk). SingleSurf Cook County Mar. 25 (PD). Away from ma- lores and eyes. Soft-part coloration, par- Scoters appeared at Spfld., Mar. 26 & Apr. jor staging areas, up to 40 were noted at ticularly iris color, may provide the only 13 (H) and along L. Michigan in Indiana and Monroe Res., Ind., Mar. 3-21, 18 over Bern- discernible field marks for immatures or Illinois Apr. 23-May 11. The only Black helm Forest, Ky., Mar. 4 (fide BM) and 42 at adults out of the breeding season. While Scoterswere singlesat Chicago Apr. 10 & 17 Glasgow,Ky., Mar. 7 (RSt). One-to-threeap- White-faced are most likely in w. states and (JPo, RE). Few Red-breasted Mergansers peared on 8 datesin Ohio and singlelocations Glossy in the East, both speciescould con- were reported along the Great Lakes; the in Iowa and Missouri. King Rails were ceivably occur anywhere in the Region. peak was only 2500 at Cleveland Mar. 27 reported from 11 locations Apr. 5-May 25 Hence, ibis identification should be based on (TL). with none in Indiana or Kentucky. Yellow field marks and not geographic probability. Rails were observed at M.M.W.A., Apr. 6 DIURNAL RAPTORS--The expected (•'JP), Irwin Prairie, O., Apr. 28-May 2 (ET spring hawk flights did not materialize this et al.) and Swan Lake N.W.R., Mo., May 4 year. Even at traditional areas, migrants (•-SS, TBk). Single Purple Gallinules at passedby in steady streamswith few large Mingo N.W.R., Apr. 18 (SS et al.), Goose concentrations. Exemplary peaks were 60 Pond, Ky., Apr. 12 (JHa) and Owsley Fork Sharp-shinnedHawks at O.W.R., Apr. 26 Res., Ky., May 9 (GR) were noteworthy. (LRo), 150 Red-tailed Hawks at Palos, Ill., Mar. 15 (RB) and 122 at Spfld., Mar. 21 (H), SHOREBIRDS--As usual, habitat condi- and 350 Broad-winged Hawks at O.W.R., tions and numbers of shorebirds varied con- Apr. 26 (LRo). siderably across the Region. From April Indiana's first White-tailed Kite appeared through mid-May, low water levels in w. in Monroe County Apr. 18 (•'GH, statescreated ideal habitats, attracting a large •-SG--ph.). The kite was within a mile of the variety and number of birds. In e. states, Gannet on the same date. While a locally habitat conditions were spotty at best and White-facedIbis, L. Manawa, la., May 13, severe storm the previous evening may have numbers were poor. 1981. Photo/T.H. Kent. forced these birds down, factors causing Piping Plovers appeared at nine locations them to appear at the sameplace and time are Apr. 9-June 10 with an exceptional seven at WATERFOWL--The waterfowl migra- Horseshoe L., Apr. 18 (JEa). None were re- tion was under way by Mar. I and many birds ported in Indiana or Kentucky. Single Snowy had already passed through the Plovers were noted at St. Joseph, Mo., Apr. Region.Spring concentrationswere generally 10-12 (•'L) and Big Lake S.P., Mo., May 21 disappointing. Some divers appeared in good (MRo). Good numbers of Am. Golden Plov- numbers, particularly Redheads, Ring- ers passed through the n. states, beginning necked Ducks and Lesser Scaup. Large con- Mar. 17 in Richland County, IlL (LH). Con- centrations of puddle ducks were not centrations of Ruddy Turnstones are ex- reported. As expected, small numbers of pected along the Great Lakes in spring. This most specieslingered into May or early June year, maximum counts were 82 at Oregon, at many areas. O., May 21 (JF) and 64 at Chicago May 29 Few Whistling Swans appeared at the w. White-tailedKite, North Fork Ref., Apr. 18, (RGo, PC). Inland, 15 were noted at L. Man- Lake Erie stagingareas; the only large flock 1981. Photo/Tom Alexander. awa, Ia., May 23 (fide TB) and smallernum- in Ohio was 1000 at L. Rockwell Mar. 27 intriguingand not easilyexplained. Mississip- bers at 8 other locations. Twelve Whimbrels (LRo). Elsewhere,one or two birds were re- pi Kites arrived late in Illinois. Elsewhere, at Findlay Res., O., May 30 (fide TBa) and ported from Illinois, Indiana and Iowa. Nor- they were noted at Ballard W.M.A., Ky., one at Willow Slough, Ia., May 19 (•'BW) mal numbers of White-fronted Geese were Apr. 28 (JE) and St. Louis May 16-21 were exceptional. One or two appeared at 4 noted in w. states including 3000 at S.C.R., (m.ob.). Goshawks were reported at four Great Lakes locations in Ohio and Illinois Mar. 14 (L). Farther e., up to 23 appearedat sites, singles at Thomas Hill Res., Mar. 7 Apr. 22-May 31. Upland Sandpipersreturned 4 Illinois sites, five at Kankakee W.M.A., (•'SS, TBk), Reading, O., Mar. 27 (•'JI), Chi- in small numbers to regular nesting areas. Ind., Mar. 21 (KB et al.) and three at Cleve- cago Apr. 8 (•-RGo, PC) and a late bird in Early Solitary Sandpipers were detected at land Apr. 5 (•'TL et al.). Two Ross' Geese Kent, O., Apr. 28 (•'LRo). Cooper's and Red- Horseshoe L., Mar. 28 (RB) and M.M.W.A., were observed at Willow Slough, la., Mar. shoulderedhawks were widely noted in small Mar. 29 (J). Fair numbers of Willets ap- 24-28 (•'T, •'BW, m.ob.) and singles at numbers. Reports of 1-4 Swainsoh'sHawks peared in all states except Kentucky Apr. S.C.R., Mar. 22 (L) and HorseshoeL., Mar. were received from 4 Missouri, 7 Iowa and 2 16-June 7. Maximum counts included 28 at 19-Apr. I (•'CR, m.ob.). Drake Cinnamon Illinois locations. Singles e. to Decatur, Ill., Horseshoe L., May 2 (BRu) and 10-13 at 4 Teals were noted at six locations: Wilmette, Mar. 28 (•'SSt) and Spfld., Apr. 23 (H) were other locations. Small numbers of Red Knots Ill., Apr. 4 (•'JL et al.); two at Saylorville unusual. Six reports of Golden Eagles Mar. migrated along the Great Lakes in Illinois Res., Ia., Apr. 5-8 (RMo, m.ob.); Alton 14-Apr. 18 were normal; four were observed and Ohio May 25-31. It was an excellent year Dam, Mo., Apr. 25 (M&LS); Sunken Grove, in Ohio. Large numbers of Bald Eagles re- for Pectoral Sandpipers including 3000-5000 Ia., Apr. 29-May 16 (MB, •-RC); two at mained into early March with 532 along the in Newton County, Ind., Apr. 29 (CK et aL). S.C.R., May I (L, K J); Spring Run W.M.A., Mississippi and Illinois Rivers Mar. 10 Expected numbers of White-rumped Sand- Ia., May 6 (DH). Single Eur. Wigeon ap- (RCo). Regular small numberswere observed pipers were observedin all stateswith a peak peared at O.W.R., Mar. 6-Apr. 20 (•'JP, ET, elsewhere. A pair nest-building at Mingo of 111 at Thomas Hill Res., May 11 (JRa). m.ob.) and Palos, Ill., Apr. 3-10 (PD, N.W.R., Mo., in late May was an encourag- Small numbers of Baird's Sandpipers were -•m.ob.). Small numbers of Greater Scaup ing sign (fide JW). Ospreyswere plentiful reported from Iowa and Missouri while one

Volume35, Number5 829 appeared in Richland County, Ill, Apr 28 more than normal in Ohio Common Terns Wright, Ky, May 3 (EG), small numbers (LH) An early Dunhn returned to Willow exhibited an opposite pattern, being more passedthrough all statesafter mid-May with Slough, Ia., Apr. 2 (TB). A flock of 21 Long common than normal in w. states including five at Mahomet, Ill, May 25 (RCh). Olive- billed Dowitchers at Spfld., Apr. 30 (H) was 600-1000 at 3 Chicago locations May 5-14. sidedFlycatchers were widely encounteredin noteworthy while 1-3 were observed at 3 Two Least Terns appeared at Kentucky L., May including six at M.M.W.A., May 30 other Illinois locations in late April. Indiana Ky., Apr. 21-May 4 and one at Baldwin L., (TBa).A 9 Vermilion Flycatcher in Chicago reports included two in Parke County Apr. Ilk, May 17 (J'RK). Caspian Terns returned Apr. 8-12 (•'JL, m.ob.) provided one of very 27 (ABr) and six in Lake County Apr. 29 to Cleveland Apr. 2 (D & JH). They were few records for Illinois. (CK, TK). Stilt Sandpiperswere numerousin scarcein many areas with a maximum of 55 Tree Swallows were numerous in most Iowa with 28 at Hendrickson Marsh May 23 at Cleveland Apr. 15 (TL). Normal numbers areas, returning to Ohio and Iowa by Mar. (PM) and 25 at L. Manawa May 24 (TB et of Black Terns were reported. 15. A Barn Swallow in Pike County, Mo., a! ) Smaller numbersappeared E to O.W.R. Mar. 1 (BGo, SS) was very early. Cliff Swal- A Semipalmated Sandpiper at Coralville CUCKOOS THROUGH WOODPECK- lows were widely encounteredwith a notable Res, la., Apr. 11 (T) was early. Western ERS-Both cuckoos received mixed reports flock of 500 in Callaway County, Mo., May Sandpiperswere well reported from Illinois but overall numbers were similar to last year. 10 (RW). Early Purple Martins returned to with ten at L. Calumet June 2 (RGo, PC) and A Roadrunner in Carter County, Mo. (KK) Cincinnati Mar. 16 (W) and Jefferson City, 1-6 at 6 other locations, beginning May 5. was e. of its normal range. The only Barn Mo., Mar. 19 (JW). Numbersremained low Buff-breasted Sandpipers were found at 3 Owls were noted in Normal, II1., Feb. 26 (fide in many areas. Large Blue Jay movementsoc- sites two at Forney L., Ia., Apr. 26 (?TB); DBi) and M.M.W.A., Mar. 21-Apr. 12 (JP). curred Apr. 28 with 735/hour at Cleveland five in Fremont County, Ia., May 12 (T, RS); A late Snowy Owl was found dead at Cleve- (M) and 2210 in 45 minutes at Gary, Ind. sevenin Holt County, Mo., May 21 (MRo). land Apr. 12 (M) while another lingered at (RG) and May 4 when 943/hour flew over Marbled Godwits were reported from 11 M.M.W.A. through Apr. 27 (JP). Single Cleveland. Since Black-capped Chickadees locations including an early migrant at Big Burrowing Owls appeared at Ames, la., Apr. were sedentarythis past winter, migration of Marsh, Ia., Apr. 5 (FM, RM). Thirteen at 1 (J'T, HZ, m.ob.), Ottawa County, O., Apr. 45 on Mar. 28 and 230 Mar. 31 along L. Spfld, Apr. 21 (H) were exceptional.Hud- 5-6 (?SZ) and Ft. Wayne, Ind., Apr. 24 (fide Michigan in Indiana is difficult to explain soman Godwits appeared in normal numbers Haw) where Indiana's fourth occurrencewas (KB). The return flight of Red-breastedNut- in Iowa, Missouri and Illinois, beginning a bird rescued from a building in the city's hatcheswas modest;many birds lingeredinto Apr 19 in Wabash County, Ill. (LH). Largest largest shopping center. Up to ten Long- late May including Indiana's secondsuccess- flocks were 30 in Fremont County, Ia., May eared Owls were reported from 4 Ohio, 3 ful nestingrecord at South Bend (V & MR). 12 (T) and 18 at HorseshoeL., May 19 (?PS, Missouri and 2 Illinois locations. Similar BRu) Single Ruffs were documented at numbers of Short-eared Owls were noted in- WRENS THROUGH SHRIKES--A ChampaignCounty, Ill., Apr. 18-19 (J'RChet cluding a possiblenesting attempt in Warrick House Wren at Dayton, O., Apr. 11 was ear- al) and HorseshoeL., May 8-9 (?PS, BRu, County, Ind., (JC). Saw-whet Owls were only ly (BB). Winter Wrens are still uncommon mob). Sanderlings appeared in normal found in Iowa and Ohio with a peak of five at with no appreciablerecovery in recent years. numbers, beginning with two early birds in M.M.W.A. in early April and a late bird in Bewick's Wrens were reported from 3 Ken- Waterloo, Ia., Apr. 8 (RM, TS); maximum Bay Village, O., May 16 (SA). Regular num- tucky, 4 Missouri and 2 Illinois locations. A count was 55 at Waukegan, II1., May 29 (JN). bers of Chuck-will's-widowsappeared at tra- pair in Iowa City successfullyfledged three It was a record year for Am. Avocetsin Iowa ditional locations in all states. Whip-poor- young, providing the first Iowa record in sev- with reportsfrom 12 locationsincluding 42 at wills returned to Hamlin, Ky., Mar. 31 (JE). eral years (JHu). Small numbers of Short- Mcintosh W.M.A., Apr. 19 (fide JH) and 38 On Apr. 12, an enterprising Whip-poor-will billed Marsh Wrens were reported from 14 lo- at L Manawa Apr. 28 (BW). Elsewhere,24 looking for a cheap night's lodging in down- cations. Early thrush records included a were noted at Potato Cr., Ind., Apr. 29 town Louisville flew through an open apart- Wood at M.M.W.A., Apr. 5 (Jet a!.) and a (mob.) and 2-10 at one Missouri and 2 Illi- ment window and promptly went to sleep on Veery at Des Plaines Conservation Area, Ill., nois sites. Only small numbers of Wilson's a bed (AB). The apartment's occupantwas an Apr. 15 (JSt). Only Hermit Thrushes were Phalaropes were found in all states except understandingbirder who releasedit in a city found in fair numbers.Swainson's and Gray- Kentucky. Northern Phalaropeswere well re- park the next day. Common Nighthawks cheeked thrushes were late and scarce, in ported with 11 sightingsof 1-4 birds in Iowa, were late and generally scarce. A Chimney lower numbersthan last spring, while Veeries Illinois and Missouri. Swift at Murray, Ky., Mar. 17 (CP) was very received mixed reports. Eastern Bluebird early; most arrived in early to mid-April. populations exhibited a strong regionwide re- GULLS, TERNS--Glaucous Gulls linger- Ruby-throated Hummingbirds were first ob- covery this spring. A Townsend'sSolitaire in ed along the Great Lakes into April, the latest servedin Illinois Apr. 11 with singlesin Rich- Dallas County, la., Mar. 29 (J'RC) was e. of at Chicago Apr. 25-26 (JL). One in Seneca land County (LH) and Chicago (DP). They its normal range. Blue-grayGnatcatchers ap- County, O., Apr. 6-10 was unusual (J'TBa). returned to all states by mid-April but were peared at Hamlin Mar. 30 (JE) and region- Most Iceland Gulls departed by mid-March scarce in many n. areas. ACom. ("Red- wide by Apr. 3-5. Good numberswere noted although one lingered at Waukegan, Ill. shafted") Flicker appeared at Des Moines in most areas. Golden-crowned Kinglets through Apr. 20 (JN). Iowa's first Thayer's Apr. 12 (RL). Good numbersof Red-headed receivedmixed reports while Ruby-crowneds Goll, an immature at L. Manawa Mar. 19-28 Woodpeckerswere reported regionwide, but were "back to normal". Where were all the (?RS, J'm.ob.), was overdue. Singlesalso ap- the Yellow-bellied Sapsucker migration was Water Pipits?This normallycommon species peared at Chicago Apr. 9 & 25 (?JPo). The modest at best. was rarely encountered; the largest reported only Black-headedGull was found at Wauke- flock was only 50 birds. Cedar Waxwings ex- gan June 1-3 (GRo et al.). Four Laughing FLYCATCHERS THROUGH NUT- hibited a typical migration pattern, fair num- Gulls were reported, singlesat M.M.W.A., HATCHES--Eastern Kingbirds appeared as bers were reported in March and early April Mar 27 (J'JP), Falls of the Ohio, Ky., May 9 far n. as Cincinnati by Apr. 18 (fide W); the while a very strong movementthrough the n. (LR), JasperCounty, II1., May 12 (?LH) and only noteworthy concentrationwas 36 in states occurred during the last ten days of Chicago May 18 (JN). Franklin's Gulls ap- Spfld., May 14 (H). Normal numbersof W. May. Single N. Shrikeslingered through late peared in all statesbut were scarcein the w. Kingbirds were noted in w. states. Singles March in Ohio and Illinois. Loggerhead Bonaparte'sGulls were also poorly reported, wandered E to Lawrenceville, II1., May 17 Shrikeswere widespreadin Iowa but observ- the largestnumber along the Great Lakes was (J'LH) and HorseshoeL., May25 (J'PSet al.). ed at only one Indiana, 2 Ohio and 5 n. Il- 1525 at Cleveland Apr. 6 (M). Single Little Out-of-range Scissor-tailedFlycatchers were linois locations. Gulls were noted at Cleveland Mar. 30 (TL) detected in Amana, la., Apr. 26 (J'CB, and Chicago May 18-19 (RB, JL). Spring m.ob.--ph), St. Joseph,Mo., May 15 (MRo, VIREOS, WARBLERS-- The spring mi- Black-legged Kittiwake records are rare. J'L) and L. Sangchris, Ill., May 20 (J'H). gration was disappointing.Defined waves of Hence, an immature at Lorain, O., Mar 21 Great Crested Flycatchers at Hamlin, Ky. migrants did not materialize. The migration (?TBa et al.) was noteworthy. Forster's Terns (JE) and Farmington, Mo., (RLe) Apr. 13 pattern of a steadystream of birdswith spot- at Monroe Res., Mar. 28 (SG) were early were early. Normal numbers of Yellow-bel- ty, local concentrations was more reminiscent while a regionwide influx occurred Apr. lied Flycatchers appeared in all states. An of autumn than spring. 10-12 Numbers were low in w. states but early Alder Flycatcherwas identified at Ft. While this season will never be remembered

830 American B•rds, September 1981 for its concentrationsof migrants, it may be and six at Mark Twain N W R, Ill, Apr 25 Slough, Ind , Apr 4 (fide CK) and Cleveland remembered for the number and variety of (HW). Orchard Orioles appeared in good Apr. 28 (PTL et al.). Sharp-tafied Sparrows early arrival dates. Some noteworthy dates numbers, especiallyin n. states.An early N. were reported as singlesin Cleveland May 25 were: White-eyed Vireo at Sunken Grove, Oriole at Ames, Ia., Apr. 24 (JR) was follow- (TL) and ChicagoMay 29 and 31 (RGo, RB) Ia., Apr. 5 (pRC) and Hamlin Apr. 6 (JE); ed by good numbers regionwide. Normal A flock of 40 Vesper Sparrows in Pulaski Bell's Vireo were locally increasingin Indiana numbers of Brewer's Blackbirds appeared in County, Ky., Mar. 28 was unusual (JEI) but appeared in normal numbers farther w. w. states while singles wandered e. to New Lark Sparrowswere reported in normal num- Yellow-throated Vireo at Hamlin Apr. 8 (JE) Haven, Ind., Mar. 12 (Haw, JWi), Louisville bers. The only Bachman's Sparrow appeared and Urbana, Ill., Apr. 14 (RB). Red-eyed Apr. 9 (AB) and M.M.W.A., Apr. 18 (ph.-- in Louisville May 15 (AB). Clay-colored Vireo at St. Louis Apr. 10 (RK); Philadelphia JP). Great-tailed Grackles were noted at two Sparrows were widely reported from Iowa Vireo at Hueston Woods S.P., O., Apr. 22 n.w. Missouri locations but did not nest this and Illinois Apr. 26-June7 while singlebirds (JI); Black-and-white Warbler at Hamlin year (L). Single cy Western Tanagers ap- appearedE to M.M.W.A., Apr. 27 (pJ) and Mar. 31 (JE) and Sunken Grove, Ia., Apr. 5 peared at Winnetka, II1., May 3 (pJL, LB et Oxford, O., May 1 (banded--JI). SingleHar- (RC); Blue-winged Warbler at Cincinnati al.) and Chicago May 14 (pJL). A Scarlet ris' Sparrowswandered E to BuschW.M A, Apr. 14 (SB); TennesseeWarbler at Hamlin Tanager at Hamlin Apr. 10 (JE) was early. Mo., Mar. 1 (RK) and Illinois Beach S P , Apr. 17 (JE); Nashville Warbler at Danville, The Summer Tanager overflight included at II1., May 9 (JN). An impressive sparrow Ky., Apr. 11 (FL) and JohnsonCounty, Ind., least nine reports from areas n. of their nor- movement Apr. 28 brought 600 White- Apr. 18 (BG); N. Parula at Hamlin Mar. 31 mal range. throated Sparrowsto a small Clevelandpark (JE) and regionwide by Apr. 11; Yellow (DC). Fox and Lincoln's sparrowswere plen- Warbler at Cincinnati Apr. 12 (fide W); FINCHES--A Rose-breasted Grosbeak at tiful, especiallyalong the Great Lakes. Small Black-throated Green Warbler at Hamlin South Bend, Ind., Mar. 30 (V&MR) was very flocks of Lapland Longspurs appeared in Mar. 31 (JE), Springfield, Mo., Mar. 31 early. Migrants appeared in good numbers. many areas; larger numbers included 100 at (CBo et al.) and M.M.W.A., Apr. 4. (JP); Blue Grosbeaks arrived at Hamlin Apr. 12 Swan Lake N.W.R., Mo., Feb. 28 (SS et al ) ten Cerulean Warblers at Hamlin Apr. 4 (JE) and elsewhereby mid-May. Expected and 50 late migrantsin Newton County, Ind, (JE); Yellow-throated Warbler at Hamlin small numbers wandered into Iowa and n. Il- May 13 (KB, SGe). One in Chicago May 27 Mar. 31 (JE) and near Keosauqua, Ia., Apr. linois. An Indigo Bunting at Bowling Green, was exceptionallylate (pRGo, PC). A flock 11 (pJS); Prairie Warbler at Pickaway Coun- Ky., Mar. 17-19 was exceptionally early; of 100 Smith's Longspursin Johnson Coun- ty, O., Apr. 13 (J); Palm Warbler at Hamlin most arrived in mid- to late April. Dickcissels ty, Ia., Apr. 11 (pT, pMM) provided one of Apr. 1 and M.M.W.A., Apr. 8 (JP); Loui- receivedmixed reports, from normal in w. very few recent records for that state. In Illi- siana Waterthrush at Ames, Ia., Apr. 4 statesto none in Ohio. One frequentedat Ur- nois, they were reported from 4 locations (pJR); Corn. Yellowthroat at Hamlin Apr. 7 bana, Ill. feeder Mar. 27 (pHP). Evening Mar. 15-Apr. 11 with a maximum of 200 at (JE). Grosbeaks lingered into May with maxima of MechanicsburgApr. 4 (PW et al.). In the e, Extralimital reports of Swainsoh's Warb- 30-100 in most states. More Purple Finches 25 appeared in Newton County, Ind., Apr 3 lers included single birds in Osage County, were observed this spring. Maximum num- (CBu) and three at O.W.R., Mar. 8 (pLRo et Mo., May 3 (pJG, LW), Louisville May 9 bers were 40-60 in most areas and 150 at MO. Illinois' secondChestnut-collared Long- (MS) and Olney, Ill., May 9-11 (pLH). Hamlin Apr. 10 (JE). spur appeared in Tazewell County, May 12 Worm-eating Warbler overflights were lim- (pVH, LA). ited to a handful of reports from Ohio and I1- House Finches are rapidly expanding hnois. Golden-winged Warblers were wide- W. While numbers are still small in w. CORRIGENDA--The June 3, 1980 Eared spread including three recordsfrom w. Iowa Ohio, they are regularly found in all sec- Grebe (AB 34:899) should have been from where they are rare. A total of ten "Brew- Willow Slough, Ia. not Indiana. With regard ster's" and three "Lawrence's" warblers tions of the state. In Kentucky,they have spreadW to Owensboro(JFo) and nested to the large number of Red-breastedMergan- were reported. Both Tennesseeand Nashville in Louisville (AB). Indiana's first docu- sers observed along L. Erie Nov. 19, 1978 warblers were unusually common, with 200 mented nests were located at Decatur (AB 33:182), Dr. Paul Springer has correctly of the former at Spfld., May 16 (H). Cape (JHe) and Ft. Wayne (Haw) while small pointed out that such large numbers over May Warblers appeared in excellentnumbers numbers were reported at 4 other loca- large bodiesof water cannot be accuratelyes- including eight at Sweet Marsh, Ia., May 13 tions. In Illinois, the wintering bird at Ur- timated from the ground. While very large (RM) and two sightings in Missouri. Black- numbers of mergansers were undoubtedly throated Blue Warblers were not found in w. bana remained through Mar. 27 (RCh) while another appearedat Dundee Apr. present on that date, the total estimate of states but appeared in normal numbers else- 28-30 (BT). 250,000 may be excessivelylarge and should where. Increased numbers of Chestnut-sided be deleted. warblers were observed in most areas. A 9 Kirtland's Warbler at Chesterton May 17 Pine Grosbeaks lingered into March in CONTRIBUTORS--(Sub-regional Editors (pKB) provided Indiana's third record. A Iowa and Indiana, latest was at Rolling namesin boldface type; contributorsare re- Prairie Warbler in Marshall County, Ia., Prairie, Ind., Mar. 17 (fide DB). Small num- questedto sendtheir reportsto them.) Major May 20 wasunusual for that state(pBP). Few bers of Corn. Redpolls remained in Indiana contributors:(H) Dave Bohlen, (J) Bruce Kentucky Warblers wandered N of their nor- and Ohio through Apr. 1. Pine Siskins were Peterjohn (Ohio), (K) ¾ernon Kleen (Ilh- mal range. Both Connecticut and Mourning numerous with many reports through May. nois), (L) Floyd Lawhon, (M) William warblers were widely reported in May includ- Maximum counts were 50-100 in most states. Klamm, (S) Anne Stamm (Kentucky), (T) ing 5 sightingsof the former in Missouri and While nesting was suspectedin many areas, Thomas Kent (Iowa), (W) Art Wiseman 5 in Iowa. Hooded Warblers were noted at 3 the only documentednesting attempts were in Other observers and reporters included S Iowa and 4 n. Illinois locationswhere they Ames (fide JD), Cincinnati(fide W) and Co- Adamson, T. Alexander, L. Augustine, L are unusual. lumbus (fide J). Small numbers of Red Cross- Balch, T. Barksdale (TBk), A. Barron, T bills were reported from one Ohio, one Iowa Bartlett (TBa), C. Bendorf, B. Berry, D BLACKBIRDS THROUGH TANAGERS and 2 Illinois locations. Repeating last win- Birkenholz(DBi), R. Biss,C. Bonner(CBo), --A Bobolink in Wabash County, Ill., Apr. ter's trend, White-winged Crossbills were T. Bray, M. Brewer, K. Brock, S. Brockman, 19 was early (LH). Impressivenumbers of mi- most frequently observed.Eight reportswere A. Bruner (ABr), D. Buck, C. Burris (CBu), grants included 360 in Shelby County, I11., receivedfrom all statesexcept Kentucky with J. Campbell, R. Chapel (RCh), B. Chato, P May 9 (KF). Small numbersof W. Meadow- birds lingering into May at severallocations. Clyne, D. Corbin, R. Crompton (RCo), R larks were reported from one n. Indiana and Easterly Lark Bunting records included Cummins, J. Dinsmore, P. Dring, J. Eades 3 n.w. Ohio locationswhere they are regular. singlesin Lake County, I11., May 8-9 (KL) (JEa), R. Eiseman,J. Elmore (JE1),J. Erwln, Yellow-headedBlackbirds were locally scarce and Bremer County, Ia., May 13 (pFM, K. Forcum, J. Ford (JFo), J. Fry, J. Garrett, in w. statesas a resultof the drought. Normal pRM). SavannahSparrows were well report- S. Getty (SGe), B. Gill, S. Glass, R. Goetz numbersappeared at traditionalareas along ed including103 at ClevelandApr. 14 (M). Le (RGo), B. Goodge (BGo), E. Groneman, R the Great Lakes e. to M.M.W.A. Elsewhere, Conte's Sparrows were widespread in w. Grow, J. Hancock (JHa), J. Hansen, D one was at Dayton, O., Apr. 22 (fide CM), states with 5-15 observed at many locations. Hart, L. Harrison, J. Haw (Haw), J. Heller onein ScottCounty, Ind., Apr. 25 (fide BG), In the e. single birds appeared at Willow (JHe), G. Hill, D. and J. Hoffman (D&JH),

Volume35, Number5 831 V. Humphreys, J. Huntington (JHu), J. In- gacnik, J. Polk (JPo), D. Pontius,B. Proesc- ferhan (JS0, T. Stone, S. Stroyls (SSt), M. gold, K. Jackson, Charles Keller (Indiana), holdt, ,lames Ratherr (JRa--Missouri), L. Susie, S. Suter, E. Trainer, B. Turner, P. T. Keller, R. Korotev, K. Kriewitz, J. Land- Rauth, M. Rhodes, V. and M. Riemen- Ward, L. Warner, T. Weyrauch, J. Williams ing, K. Langenburg,E. Larson, R. Laubach, schneider(V&MR), G. Ritchison,M. Rob- (JWi), B. Wilson, ,lamesWilson (Missouri), T. LePage, R. Lewis (RLe), F. Loetscher,W. bins (MRo), C. Roberts, D. Robinson,J. R. Windsor, H. Wuestenfeld, H. Zaletel, S. Marcisz, P. Martsching, K. Maslowski, C. Robinson,G. Rosenband(GRo), B. Rudden Zenser. In addition, many personswho could Mathens, B. Monroe, R. Mooney (RMo), F. (BRu), L. Rosche(LRo), B. Rose, J. Sand- not be individually acknowledgedsubmitted Moore, M. Mulier, R. Myers, J. Neal, D. rock, M. and L. Schaefer (M&LS), R. Sil- notes to the various sub-regionalreports.- Newhouse, H. Parker, C. Peterson, J. Po- cock, P. Snetsinger,R. Starr (RSt), J. Stof- BRUCE G. PETERJOHN, 105-K E. Ticon- deroga Dr., Westerville, Ohio 43081.

CENTRAL SOUTHERN REGION 18, were reported Mar. 10 also for Hattiesburg (RM, /Thomas A. Imhof PR). The most Brown Peli- cans, ten May 21, were also Many of the spring migrants in this in Mississippi at Ocean Region, especiallynear the coast, pass over Springs (JT). An unusual undetectedunless their progressis impeded. number of Gannets, 100- This year observersthroughout the Region 150, were listed for Apr. 4 commented on the scarcity of visible at Ft. Piekens near Pen- migrants. Curtis Kingsberyat Pensacolasum- sacola (RD). If the Great med it up very nicely"... for the birdwatcher Cormorant at Ft. Morgan this was a dismal spring migration ... worst I Apr. 18 (DC, MB, G&DJ) have ever encountered ... but for the birds it was the same as was there must have been great!" Other coastal Jan. 3, then this makes the observers commented, "almost a complete second consecutive year non-event,"-- Judy Toups, Gulfport; "worst that the specieshas remain- [! .,•,'•.I.• -•.Shfiaetchitoches _ie'. epoa / • e- ackson..... [j e.Mantgomerye t' migration I've ever seenat the coast,"--Greg ed for several months on Jackson, Mobile; "spring migrants on the the Alabama coast, which it coast worst I've ever seen,"--Mark Brown, may have been doing since Decatur; "uniformly dull,"--Nancy New- the first Alabama record in field, Metairie, La. 1972. Of several inland re- Inland observers experienced the same, ports of Double cresteds, "no major front, driest in memory, disap- the most was of 200 Apr. 11 ill: pointing spring,"--Dwight Cooley, Decatur; at Eufaula N.W.R., Ala. "hasn't been much of interest through the (MB, BO). An earliest-ever Magnificent tailed Kites were reported from all coastal spring,"--Tom Atkeson, Manager, Wheeler Frigatebird was off Ocean Springs, Miss., stateswith 6-8 all spring in Washington Par. N.W.R.; "dull season, few good birding Mar. 28 (JT, TF, m.ob.) Encouraging heron (KC) and six in Gulf County, Fla., Apr. 26 days,"--Charles Mills, Arkansas;"no effec- news: Snowy Egret and Louisiana Heron (R&LD). Mississippi Kites peaked at 50 in tive fronts, very dry spring, 27 speciesof returned to the Burdette heronry, Ark., May Chicot County, Ark., Apr. 12 (NH) and 80 regular migrants missed,"--Imhof, Birm- 20 (EaH); Green Heron arrived early Mar. 15 near Rosedale, Miss., May 23 (C1B). Two ingham; "arrivals sparse and late," -- Ben at Pascagoula(JT) and produced a high of 46 Harlan's Hawks near Decatur Mar. 24 (AM) Coffey, Memphis. Toups listed 12 species Apr. 11 at Eufaula N.W.R. (MB, BO); Red- were the latest-everfor Alabama. Bald Eagles notably absentfrom the Mississippicoast this dish Egret (dark-phase) still on Dauphin I., were reported from St. Tammany Parish spring:American Avocet, Black Tern, Black- Apr. 11 (G&DJ, B&JW). At Pascagoula Mar. 14 (JT, m.ob.); Forrest County, Miss., billed Cuckoo, Empidonax sp., Gray- Mar. 15 was a dark ibis (Piegadissp.) usualiy Apr. 12 (MMo); and Hancock County, cheeked Thrush, Swainson's, Worm-eating, difficult to identify at any distane• where Miss., Apr. 22 (JT). A total of 17 Ospreys Cape May, Cerulean, and Blackpoll both forms may be expected.A juv. Roseate was listed from coastal Mississippiwith eight warblers, Ovenbird, and Painted Bunting. Spoonbill, very rare in s.c. Louisiana , was on E. Ship- I., Mar. 10 (RM, PR) and five on Thus the vast majority of migrants moved off 1-10 in St. Charles Parish May 11 Horn I., Mar. 28 (JT, TF). Peregrines were through the Region rapidly and undetected. (N&PN). late with one at Ft. Morgan May 5 (G J, FC) For Birmingham, the first three months of the latest for Alabama since 1954 when the 1981 were very dry in spite of a wet March. WATERFOWL--White-fronted Geese specieslast was known to breed in the state; April and May were also very dry, but with peaked at 27+ on Mar. 14 and lingered to and one May 14 at Memphis (CBu). Merlins few cold fronts they reversedthe strongcool- Mar. 28 at Big Lake N.W.R., Ark. (J&DR, were also late: one May 13 in Biloxi (MMo). ing trend from the cold January and EP), but the latest was at the e. edge of the February. April produced a record pollen Region at Eufaula N.W.R., Apr. 11 (MB, count, evencurtailing this asthmatic'sbirding BO). Ten pair of Mottled Ducks were located SHOREBIRDS--On E. Ship I., Miss., a time, but also producing a bumper crop of on PascagoulaR. marsh May 9 (JT). The tal- good count of 19 Snowy Plovers was made many fruits--apples, plums, peaches--due ly of 2500 Blue-winged Teal in Baldwin Mar. 10 (RM, PR). Ben Coffey nicely sum- to the high percentageof fertilization. Better County Apr. 18 (MB, DC) is equalled in marized the Am. Golden Plover situation in reproductive successand winter survival for Alabama only in the fall in the Tennessee the tri-state area near Memphis, "only a few many speciesis expected for this year. The Valley. Equally encouragingwas the count of records, a drop, possiblygoing over to other Birmingham weather situation evidently ap- 439 Redheads at Wheeler N.W.R., Mar. 7 areas." A Long-billed Curlew at Mobile Mar. plied to much of Alabama and the Central (MB, DC, CrB), a state high. Latest ever for 5 (G&DJ) was, except for a winter record, the Southern Region east of the Mississippi Mississippi was a Bufflehead at Ocean earliest-everfor Alabama. A good count of River. Springs Apr. 25 (JT, RL). Oldsquaws also Upland Sandpiperswas the 27 in Clark Coun- did well in Mississippiwith 30 al Biloxi Mar. ty, Ark., Apr. 11 (H&MP). White-rumped LOONS THROUGH SPOONBILL The 10 (RM, PR) and six still there Apr. 2 (JT). Sandpipers were still moving through latest of severalMay Corn. Loons in Missis- Five White- winged Scoters were at Bay St. Lonoke, Ark., in good numbers; 100 May 15 sippi was one on May 29 at Sardis Dam (B & Louis, Miss., Mar. 14 (JT, m.ob.). (H&EH) and 20 on May 31 in Garland Coun- (B & LC). Four breeding-plumagedEared ty 60 mi w. (H&MP). An early Baird's Sand- Grebeswere at Lonoke, Ark., Apr. 16 (FM, HAWKS--A White-tailed Kite, third for piper was at PascagoulaApr. 25 (JT, RL) H&EH) and two late at Hattiesburg, Miss., Arkansas but the first photographed,was in and a record sevenwere at Wheeler N.W.R., May 16 (RM, PR). The most White Pelicans, Clark County Mar. 7 (H&MP). Swallow- May 8 (DC, DD). At Blakely I., Mobile, May

832 American Birds, September1981 18 a record 75 Stilt Sandpiperswas estimated A late White-winged Dove was at Reserve, five Swalnson's records, an early one was (G J). Unusual Buff-breasted Sandpipers were La., Apr. 17-18 (RS). In the Slpsey Apr. 3 at Jackson's Gap, Tallapoosa Co, in Air Products& ChemicalsInc., Sanctuary, Wilderness, Winston Co., Ala., 13 Great Ala. (BO) and the most were four Apr 17 in Santa Rosa Co., Fla. (hereafter, A.P.C.I.S.) Horned Owls were counted May 2 (DC, MB, the Tensaw Delta, Ala. (MB, DC). Two early Mar. 21 & May 12 (CM), the 3rd & 4th local- CrB). A count of 180 Whip-poor-wills in this Tennesseeswere at Eufaula N.W.R., Apr 11 ly; five were at Foley and two at Ft. Morgan wilderness also May 2 (B.A.S.) compares (BO, MB). Two interestingCape Mays were Mar. 22 (G&DJ); and one at PascagoulaMay favorably with the high there of 140 May 27, an early one Apr. 4 at Ft. Pickens, Fin (CK, 11 (JT, JJ). The Marbled Godwit at Wheeler 1972 with comparable effort. Apparently the FWi, MMa, GG, OF) and a female Apr 25 at N.W.R., Mar. 19 & 20 (DH) was, except for wildernessis working for some species. Johnson's Bayou, Cameron Par., rare that winter records on the coast, the earliest-ever far w. (VR, LH, DW, LyH). A late c• for Alabama. A Hudsoninn Godwit HUMMINGBIRDS THROUGH WOOD- Blacked-throated Blue was at Ft. Morgan photographed at A.P.C.I.S., May 2 (CM, PECKERS--R. Stein reported more Rufous May 5 (G J, FC). A Bay-breastedat Jackson's BD, FW) was the third for n.w. Florida. Four Hummingbirds than usual at Reserve, La., Cap Apr. 5 (BO) was the earliest for Am. Avocets were near Stuttgart Apr. I8 with the last one seen Apr. 17; J. Toups Alabama; yet Blackpolls were very scarce(see (WS). Black-necked Stilts seem to be reported three females or immatures present Toups' list above). Two at Ft. Morgan Apr building up on the Alabama-Mississippicoast at Ocean Springs since Nov. 15 with two 16 (G&DJ) were the only ones reported (G J, JT, TF) with 60 at Blakely I., Ala., May Selasphorus sp. last seen Mar. 11; at Palms were particularly abundant this year, 18 tieing the previous high. Apparently the Jackson's Gap, Tallapoosa Co., Ala., a c? 250 were recorded Apr. 11 at Eufaula first stilt records for Tennessee were made in Rufous was observed from 15 ft and describ- N.W.R. (MB, BO). Mourning Warbler, Shelby County: two Mar. 21 and three Mar. ed well (BO) for the secondinland Alabama noteworthy at any time, was seen in Phillips 25 (DP), then four more 20 mi s., Mar. 31 record, first in spring. The Hairy County, Ark, at the mouth of the St. Francis (RP). A Wilson's Phalarope was at Woodpecker seems to be difficult to find R., a male May 16 (H&MP). Noteworthy A.P.C.I.S., May 14-16 (CM); Milmore noted these days, for instance it was missed in 61 Wilson's were seen Apr. 18 at Tensaw Delta that 9 to 12 local records were May 4-16, party-hours by 22 observers in the Sipsey (DC, MB); Apr. 25, a female at Bellefontalne borne out very well in coastal Alabama and Wilderness May 2; however six were tallied at Beach, Miss. (JT) and a late one May 5 at Ft by a bird at PascagoulaMay 11 (JJ, JT). A Big Lake N.W.R., Ark., Mar. 11 (JR, Morgan (G J, FC). N. Phalarope was at Lonoke, Ark., May 22 E&BP). (H&EH). BLACKBIRDS TO TANAGERS--Slx FLYCATCHERS, SWALLOWS AND Bobolinks at Ft. Morgan Apr. 16 (G&DJ) JAEGERS, GULLS AND TERNS--A NUTHATCHES--A W. Kingbird was seen were early. A Yellow-headed Blackbird near small, very dark, imm. jaeger was in Missis- May 10 in WashingtonCounty, Ark. (WE). Lepanto, Poinsette Co., May 12 (M&HHo) sippi Sound 4 mi off JacksonCounty, Miss., A Scissor-tailed Flycatcher in Bolivar Coun- was the third for n.e. Arkansas. A late Rusty Mar. 28 (JT). A GlaucousGull at Dauphin I., ty, Miss., May 20 was definitely associated Blackbird was at Eufaula N.W.R., Apr 11 Apr. 26 (DM, GK, m.ob.) was at least the with severe weather, tornadoes, and frontal (BO, MB); and late Brewer's were the 20 + in eighth for the Alabama coast. A Lesser passage (N&JH). After recording a Least Hancock County, Miss., Mar. 31 (JT, GM) Black-backed Gull at Ft. Pickens, Apr. 22 Flycatcherin W. Little Rock Apr. 27, Henry Bronzed Cowbirds are in their fifth con- (P&FT) called the second for n.w. Florida, and Edith Hallberg listed three other Em- secutive year near Reserve, La., and from may have been the same bird seenat the same pidonacesMay 23 along the MississippiR., in Mar. 26 built up to 6-8 or possiblymore (RS, place Nov. 24, 1980! A Franklin's Gull was at Phillips County, six locally-breeding Aca- MW). Scarlet Tanagers exceeded previous PascagoulaMay 11 (JT). Of several inland dians, two Willows, and an Alder. Two highs May 2; 20 + in Jackson County, Miss recordsof Bonaparte's Gulls, three May 25 at Yellow-bellieds were noted in Mississippi, (JT, Mall, CR, MC) and 103 in the Slpsey Wheeler N.W.R. (DH) were the latest for one near Hattiesburg Apr. 26 (RM, PR) and Wilderness, Winston Co., Ala. (B.A.S) An Alabama. One to two Roseate Terns at Pinto one near Biloxi May 11 (MMo). Two Rough- orange variant male was seen at Ft. Morgan Pass, Mobile Apr. 16-18 (MB, DC) con- winged Swallows at Gulf Shores (G&DJ) Apr. 29 (G J). stituted the fifth record for Alabama. Mar. 3 were, except for winter records, the earliest for Alabama. Early Barn Swallows FINCHES--A c?Rose-breasted Grosbeak DOVES THROUGH SWIFTS- were at Gulfport Mar. 14 (JT) and Jones- at a Gulfport feeder Mar. 22 was either early S.A. boro, Ark., Mar. 24 (JR). Red-breasted or overwintering (JT); one at Eufaula Nuthatches lingered late in most of the N.W.R., Apr. 11 (MB, BO) was definitely On Jan. 25, 1981, Samuel and Jean Region but set no records for numbers or early; and one near Guntersville, Ala., May McMillan of Mobile visited their fifth- season. 23 (DC) was late. The earliest Mississippi floor beach condominium at Vista del Blue Grosbeak was seen Mar. 31 in Hancock Mar just s.w. of Pensacola. Clinging to THRUSHES THROUGH VIREOS--Bet- County (JT, GM); the earliestIndigo Bunting the sliding screenon the only open side of ween Ft. Pickens and Gulf Breeze May 12, 60 was at Gulfport Mar. 24 (JT). A c?Painted the balcony facing the Gulf was a dead Swainson'sThrushes were counted (RD). A Bunting at Metairie, La., Mar. 7, 9, & 11 was White-collared Swift, Streptoprocne pair of Veeries, male singing, May 23 at so early that it could have wintered locally zonaris. The specimenwas photographed Skyline Mgt. Area, JacksonCo., Ala. (DC) (NN); a pair Apr. 3 in Bolivar County, Miss , and shipped in ice to Dr. John W. Hardy backed by 4 prior midsummer records in n. also early (N&JH), was joined next day by of the Florida State Museum, who con- Alabama argues for local breeding. Among two males. Dickcissels on the coast were at firmed the identification. He further encouragingnews of the E. Bluebird was that Biloxi Apr. 23 (MMo) and four at stated that it was an ad. female of the of a pair with young May 9 at the Bonnet A.P.C.I.S., May 9, the latest ever (AS, DT) Mexican subspecies and the "first Carre Spillway, La., first local nestingin 25 Evening Grosbeaks were well scattered specimenfor the United States for both years (RS, MW, MA). After a good winter through the Region but not in record genus and species, and there are no Sprague'sPipit was last seenMay 2 at Bonnet numbers.A pair was at Marianna, Fla., Mar known sight records." The meteorologist Carre Spillway (RS, MW), the latest for the 1 (MG, MMc) after a peak of 30 in mid- at Pensacola Naval Air Station, 7-8 miles state. A Solitary Vireo at ShreveportMay 9 February; they peaked at 20 at Baker, near n.e. of Vista del Mar reported for Jan. 23 (H J, CL) was late for the state, while a Baton Rouge Mar. 1 (CW), and the most winds aloft at 5000-12,000 ft of 20-35 Yellow-throated Vireo Mar. 14 at Slidell (JT, reported was 115 at the Brown's feeder in knots from the SW. The straight-line m.ob.) was early for Louisiana. A pair of Decatur Mar. 21 (CrB, MB). A late pair of distance from the nearest regular occur- Black-whiskeredVireos at Gulf Breeze, ap- Purple Finches was at the Hulse feeders, rence in n.e. Mexico, the mountains of parently in courtship behavior May 30, later Decatur through May 2 (DH). House Finches Tamaulipas and San Luis Potosi, is than usual local occurrence (RD), may in- peaked at 51 Mar. 21 at the Brown's feeders 850-900 mi ENE, almost entirely over the dicate breeding in n.w. Florida. (CrB, MB). Pine Siskinswintered in numbers Gulf of Mexico. Peterson in his Mexican but set no records. Field Guide notes "wanders widely, high WARBLERS--An early Black-and-white The latest ever SavannahSparrows were at in air, to lowlands." and two early Prothonotaries were at Buc- Pascagoula R. marsh May 14 (JT, Mall, caneer S.P., Miss., Mar. 14 (JT, GM). Of others). One Grasshopper Sparrow was in

Volume 35, Number 5 833 Chicot County, Ark., Apr. 26 (NH); six at land Alabama (DH). Curtis Kingsbery, George Kulesza, Rick Jonesboro May 4 (C&NL); and ten (eight Love, Charles Lyon (CLy), Cheryl and Nor- singingmales May 16 s. of Helena (H&MP). CONTRIBUTORS (Area editors in man Lavers, Charles Mills (ChM), C. W. Le Conte's Sparrows made a fine showing at boldface)--Tom Atkeson, Maylan Ayme, Milmore (CM), Florence Mallard, Richard the Bonnet Carre Spillway with a peak of 28, Mark Brown, Craig Brown (CrB). Claude Moore, Gerry Morgan, Ann Miller, Douglas and remained, the latest ever, until May 2 Brown (CIB), Carolyn Bullock, (CBu), Bir- McNair, Mary Morris (MMo), Mary Lou (RS, MW, NN). Six Bachman's Sparrows mingham Audubon Society(B.A.S.), Dwight Mattis (MMa), Mary Ann McCrary (MMc), were reported from Dallas, Hot Springs,and Cooley, Ben and Lula Coffey, Keith Nancy and Paul Newfield, Brent Oftego, Clark cos., Ark., Apr. I & May 31 (H&MP); Casanova, Fairly Chandler, Mike Collins, Helen and Max Parker, David Phillips, seven from Baldwin County, Ala., Apr. 20 Robert and Lucy Duncan, D. J. Dunn, Brad Richard Pybum, Ed and Billy Price, Pedro (G J); and one from Limestone County, Ala., Duncan, Wayne Easley, Terry Fairly, Owen Rodriquez, John and Diane Row, Van May 31 (DC, CrB). A Tree Sparrow showed Fang, Goldwin Gary, Mary Gray, Nona and Remsen, Charlene Roemer, Robert R. Reid, up at Ft. Morgan Apr. 16 (G&DJ) and was J.C. Herbert, Henry and Edith Halberg, William Shepherd, Alan Shepherd, Ronald verified there the next day (DC, MB) for Earl Hanebrink (EaH), David Hulse, Linda Stein, Phil and Fred Tetlow, Judy Toups, Alabama as the farthest s. latest, and first for Hale, Lynda Hamilton (LyH), Mack and Dave Turpin, Beverly and John Winn, Con- the coast. A Clay-colored Sparrow at Hervey Howington (M&HHo), Mal Hodges nie Watkins, Melvin Weber, David Wieden- Wheeler N.W.R., May 4 was the first for the (Mall), Tom Imhof, Greg and Debbie field, Francis Worsnop, A. Fred Wicke TennesseeValley and the first in spring in in- Jackson, Jerry A. Jackson, Horace Jeter, (FWi).--THOMAS A. IMHOF, 1036 Pike Road, Birmingham, Ala. 35218.

PRAIRIE PROVINCES REGION overwater nesting cover was scarce, and many of the dry sloughsand the upland cover /Bernard Gollop around low sloughswere being cultivated. Major waves of migrant sparrows, thrushes and warblers occurred at Moose Jaw March continued the winter trend of being May 10-12 and 15-17, the latter coinciding abnormally warm and dry. In Winnipeg all 31 with a wave in southernManitoba May 13-16 days had above-normal temperaturesand (EK; HC, RK). across the Prairies March was 4 to 9øC above The springof 1981was exceptionallyearly, normal; April was 1-2ø above average and according to most cooperators. In contrast, May was about normal in the south. 1979 was often proclaimed to be the latest on After below-averageprecipitation in Janu- record. In an attempt to quantify differences ary and February, March, April and May between these extremes, the first three arrival produced 25-100% of normal over much of dates, each from a different area in south- the Prairies exceptthat Alberta, southof Ed- easternSaskatchewan, were compared for the Louisiana Heron, Bashaw, Alberta, Ma• 22, monton, had twice normal precipitation in two years. (Sample sizesvaried from 3 to 14 1•81. Photo/Rudi Butot. May. By the end of March there was no snow for the area north to the Quill Lakes and west on the ground acrossthe south but much of to Moose Jaw.) For the 130 speciesavailable, apparent Bewick's Swans were seen on 2 oc- Alberta's moisture in May came as snow up 114 arrived earlier in 1981 than in 1979; three •sions in Alberta: at Calgary Mar. 15 there to 70 cm (28 inches) from the 4th to the 8th. arrived on the same date and 13 were later. In were two Bewick's "t•e" and Mar. 29 at Winds exceeded 100 km/hr (60 mi/hr) on 1981, 25% of the specieshad arrived by l•st two were seen e. of Strathmore (JS; three dates in April, hasteningthe depletion March 31 compared to 4% in 1979. All of the RBu). In each •se at least one bird was of water in ponds. first 46 speciesarriving in 1981 (to April 8) photographed.These were the first reportsof Surface water conditions in the Prairie were early. The 33 speciesarriving from late this species in Alberta. Trumpeter Swans Provinces south of Edmonton, Prince Albert February through March averaged 19 days were reported migrating in Alberta neat Bot- and Swan River, Manitoba were the poorest earlier; the 61 arriving in April averaged 9 trell Apr. 17 (12 birds) with Whistlers, Sundre in 21 years for which there are records. Sur- daysearlier; 29 arriving May 1-15 were 8 days Apr. 22(?) and Irricana May 9 (routeS J; vey crewsfrom the Canadian Wildlife Service earlier and the 7 arriving May 16-31 averaged FH; JS, MSt, RBa, BB); in Saskatchewan, (hereafter, C.W.S.) and U.S. Fish and Wild- the same dates as in 1979. four birds were seen at Spring Valley Apr. life Service (hereafter, U.S.F.&W.S.) re- 15-22 & May 3 (FB), and five at Delta, Man., corded 1.4 million ponds in May, 5.2 million GREBES THROUGH SWANS--The May 25 & 27 (RT). less than the peak in 1974. Alberta ponds largest concentrationof Horned Grebes was were up 23%0 over 1980 but Saskatchewan of 450 birds at Seven Sisters, Man., Apr. 29 and Manitoba were down 56% and 9%, (PT). Western Grebesexceeded 300 at the n. respectively.Much of the water was shallow, tip of Diefenbaker L., May 13 (MG). The Charleswood Sewage La- goon, Winnipeg, hosted 130 White Pelicans Apr. 15 (GEH); there were 200 at Indian Head Apr. 13 (MWS). An ad. Lonisiana Heron was photographed s. of Bashaw May 22, for the first Alberta record (RBu); another was stud- ied at Oak Hammock Marsh (hereafter, Bewick's and Whistling swans, Strathmore, O.H.M.) May 3 (RK). Alberta, Mar. 29, 1981. Photo/Rudi Butot. Whistling Swans peaked with 3000 at Irricana, GEESE THROUGH DUCKS--In spite of Alta., Mar. 28, with 2500 poor water conditions, Canada Geese in- at Squaw Rapids, Sask., creasedby 60% over last year in s. Alberta Apr. 25 (JS; DH). Flocks and Saskatchewan but remained stable in s. of Whistling Swans with Manitoba (U.S.F.&W.S., C.W.S.). Canadas

834 American Birds, September 1981 were m•gratlng day and night "by the SHOREBIRDS THROUGH OWLS-- was a 10-15 min. study of an ad male near 1000s"near Moose Jaw Mar. 23•24 and there There was a huge shorebird migration m the Saskatoon Apr. 17, earlier than Yellow- were 10,000 on O.H.M., Mar. 22 (DR; HC, Calgary area May 9 (JS); O.H.M., held unus- rumped Warblers (D&AS). Cape May and RK). Field notes, sketchesand photographs ual numbers of shorebirds, possibly because Black-throated Green warblers were much were taken of a Barnacle Goose feeding with there was little water elsewhere. Peak num- more common than usual around Winnipeg, Canadas in stubble near Croll, Man., May 3 bers and dates reported there were: Semipal- e.g., 15 Cape Mays May 16, while a single (J&PC); this would represent the first Mani- mated Plover 500 May 19; Ruddy Turnstone Blackpoll Warbler and Ovenbird were toba record. More than 5000 White-fronted 100 May 30-June 3; Lesser Yellowlegs 1000 "record early" arrivals May 2 (RK). The first Geesewere estimatednear Moose Jaw Apr. May 2; Red Knot three late May-early June; Cape May ever reported in Banff was a sing- 11 (ML). There was a major migration of Pectoral Sandpiper 600 May 10; White- ing male May 29-June 1 (GLH, KVT, RW) Snow Geeseover Indian Head Apr. 12 and rumped Sandpiper7000 late May-early June; In Saskatchewan, Yellow-rumped over Churchill May 17-19 (MWS; BC). Least Sandpiper 1000 May 17-19; Dunlin 800 (Audubon's) Warbler is usually restricted to Based on U.S.F.&W.S.-C.W.S. surveys, May 26-29; dowitcher 600 May 17-19; Stilt the CypressHills; this springsingle birds were ducks that were down significantly(20.40%) Sandpiper 300 May 19; SemipalmatedSand- seenat Spring Valley Apr. 27 & May 1 and in from 1980 in the s. Prairies were Mallard, piper 6000 May 29; HudsonJan Godwit 600 Prince Albert N.P. (where they have been Am. Wigeon, Green-winged Teal, Pintail, May 17; Wilson's Phalarope 500 May 19 (JC, reported in previousyears) Apr. 26 & May 2 Redhead, Canvasback, Lesser Scaup and GEH, IW, DF). (FB; MSy). A Townsend's Warbler May 19 Am. Goldeneye.Species with smallerchanges A Piping Plover May 9 near Cochrane, near Bottrell was e. of its normal range (SJ) were Gadwall, Blue-wingedTeal, N. Shoveler Alta., was probably near the w. limit of its TANAGERS THROUGH LONGSPURS and Ring-neckedDuck. Bufflehead showed range (SJ). For Black-bellied Plover 240 was --There was an unusual influx of W an increase of 35%. While "thousands" of a large flock near Calgary May 25 (RBu). A Tanagers in the Calgary-Sundre area during Mallards were concentrated on Buffalo pair of LesserYellowlegs copulated near Bot- May (RBu, FH, JPd, SJ). A cy Scarlet Pound L., Sask., Apr. 17, the first brood was trell, Alta., May 24 (SJ). No Dunlins were re- an exceptionallyearly six young Apr. 23 near ported from Saskatchewan and only three Tanager May 2 in Calgary becamethe second Alberta record with a detailed description Glaslyn, Sask. (MR, EK, Sdo, CN). Two c• from Alberta (RBu, JS). Sanderlingspeaked Cinnamon Teal with • teal were seen in Man- at 500 near Raymore May 26 and 400 at Twin (DMa, fide RBu). Two other o' Scarlet Tanagers were seen at Buffalo Pound L, ltoba, one pair at Grand Beach Apr. 26 and Lakes Beach, Man., May 30 (WH, SL; GG, May 4 & 11, also w. of their normal range the other at O.H.M., through the last 3 weeks GEH, RK, IW). A Black-necked Stilt ap- (D&GS, SDu). What may be Manitoba's 14th of May (RG; RK, m.ob.). Seven Redheads peared at Delta for the secondyear in a row Black-headed Grosbeak was a female May 24 were rare at Churchill May 18 as was a single Apr. 17 (HM). At least 2000 N. Phalaropes near Winnipeg (MSi, GG, PH, RK). While CanvasbackMay 20 and a pair May 26 (BC). were concentrated near Biggat May 21 300 Purple Finches appeared at a feeder m (RDW). There were 3 reports of Arctic Tern, Birds Hill P.P., n.w. of Winnipeg, in mid- HAWKS THROUGH COOTS--A Coop- a rarity, in s.e. Manitoba: May 16 (one bird), April, a singlemale was seenat Churchill, far er's Hawk was found dead in a Great Horned 17 (one) and 30 (two--GEH, RK, GG, IW). Owl nestMay 18 at Good Spirit L. (SH). The A Band-tailed Pigeon was e. of its range May from its normal range May 16 (GG; BC) Manitoba's first Cassin'sFinch was a female, Buteo migration was generally poor. A rare 17 at Grand Cache, Alta., and a Mourning identified in the same park Apr. 19 by com- Red-tailed Hawk was studied at Churchill Dove was far n. May 26 at Churchill (JPd, May 16 and a Broad-winged Hawk, another DMc). parisonwith Purple Finchesfor an hour (ph, GG, GEH). Pine Siskins were much more straggler,was seenthere May 15 (BC; BM). Short-cared Owls were reported up in s. The third report of a Red-shonldered Hawk Saskatchewan but continued to be scarce in s. common than usual in s. Manitoba (HC, in Manitoba (Spruce Sands) was dated Mar. Manitoba. Saw-whet Owls were down in s.w. RK). Another February arrival in Manitoba 27 (DG). A roost of 25 Bald Eagles was found Alberta (JPd). was a flock of 20 Tree Sparrows on the 28th at Lyleton (JM). White-crowned Sparrows Mar. 23-29 near High R. (LY). What was ap- NIGHTHAWKS THROUGH WAX- parently a wintering Marsh Hawk was seenat were among the speciesthat died after a May WINGS--A rare spring concentration of 30 6-7 snowstorm in s. Alberta (FH). Smlth's Wolseley, Sask., Feb. 2 (JDH) while the Com. Nighthawks was found at Good Spirit earliest migrants in s.w. Manitoba appeared Longspurs were much more common than L., May 29 (W&JA). A c) Com. (Red- usual in s. Manitoba, the largest flock being m late February (HC). SinglePrairie Falcons shafted) Flicker was seen at Pierson, Man., wandered N of Edmonton Mar. 27 and to 500 at O.H.M., May 10 (GEH). Apr. 7 (JM). ACom. Crow was carrying nest Boissevain,Man., May 3 (JL; J&PC). A pair material as early as May 2 at Churchill and a CONTRIBUTORS--(area editors in bold- of Peregrineshas taken up residenceamong Brown Creeper and a Brown Thrasher were face). William and JoyceAnaka, L. Badgely, the skyscrapersof Edmonton (HP). Thirteen far n. of their ranges there May 18 & 24, re- Reed Barclay (RBa), Flossie Bogdan, Barry of 14 Merlin nests in Saskatoon were suc- spectively(A&BC). A far n.w.E. Bluebird Burrows, Rudi Butot (RBu), AI and Bonnie Chartier, John and Pat Christie, Herb cessful (there were probably 4 more nests); was seennear Edmonton in early April (HP). Moose Jaw probably had six pairs nestingin The first Mountain Bluebird arrived in s.e. Copland Shirley Dodge (SDo), Sarah Duncan the city with Reginaand Prince Albert having Manitoba in late February and a nest at (SDu), Dennis Fast, Mike Gollop, Bob at least 2 pairs each (JP1, EK). Saskatoon Whitemouth, Man., was e. of the normal Grassic, Gord Grieef, Roger Grimshaw, Dan also had 5-8 pairs of Am. Kestrelsnesting in Guinan, Terry Hammell, Wayne Harris, Fer- breeding range (HC;PT). For a rarity, three the city (JP1). Townsend's Solitaires together were very un- rell Haug, J. Donald Hayward, Dale Hjer- taas, George E. Holland, Geoff L. Holroyd, usual Apr. 17 n. of White Bear, Sask. (SO J). Phil Horch, Stuart Houston, Stuart At least one Turkey (a female) survivedthe May 18 was an unusually early date for a Johnston, Sig O. Jordheim, Edith Kern, Pat winter near Biggar (May 17--RDW). One Ruby-crowned Kinglet at Churchill (BC). The color-marked Whooping Crane was reported largest flock of Water Pipits was 150 birds Kern, Rudolf Koes, Sheila Lamont, Jim Lange, Moray Lewis, Blake Maybank, Dave this spring;it was with •lix other adultsnear near Madden, Alta., Apr. 22 (SJ). A Yellow Grass, Sask., Apr. 16 (BG, DN). Mayhood (DMa), Doug McRae (DMc), Sprague's Pipit in Waterton Lakes N.P. There were single reliable reports of Henry Murkin, John Murray, Dennis Nevel, (hereafter, W.L.N.P.) was a rarity May 13 Whoopers from Alberta (inc Mar. 25 near Cindy Nydegger, Hardy Pletz, John Polson (TH). Most Bohemian Waxwings left s. Sas- Cardston--LB) and Manitoba (two Apr. 20, katchewan in March; there were a few April (JP1), JameyPodlubny (JPd), Molly Ritchie, L. Dauphin--WW). there was a spectacular dates and the latest was May 5 at Moose Jaw Dave Robinson, Doug and Audrey Sadler, migration of Sandhill Cranes Apr. 26 be- M. Siepman (MSi), Mary W. Skinner, D&G (G&MZ, PK). tween Beaver Hill and Cooking Lakes. W.R. Staseson, John Steeves, Marian Steeves Koski counted 19,000 birds moving NNW VIREOS THROUGH WARBLERS-- (MS0, Merv Syroteuk (MSy), Peter Taylor, 3 15-4:00 p.m. Large numbers were heard There was an influx of Warbling Vireos into Roger Tittman, Kevin VanTighem, William above the clouds 4:30-5:00 p.m. At Spring W.L.N.P. (TH). The day following a heavy Walley, Robert D. Wapple, lan Ward, Ray Valley an estimated 6000 cranes passedover- snowstorm, 15-20 Black-and-white Warblers Wershler, L. Young, Gus and Mary Zado head Apr. 10 (FB). U.S.F.&W.S.-C.W.S. congregated on the snow beside a road near --J. BERNARD GOLLOP, Canadian Wild- surveys showed Am. Coots had decreased Sundre, Alta., May 9 (FH). The fifth Saskat- life Service, 115 Perimeter Road, Saskatoon, 37% from 1980 in the s. Prairie Provinces. chewanrecord of a Golden-wingedWarbler Saskatchewan S7N OX4.

Volume 35, Number 5 835 NORTHERN GREAT PLAINS are rare enough that all REGION sightings are reported. There were two Gyrfalcons noted /Gordon B. Berkey from Montana, including one harassing Sage Grouse Mar. 7 The spring seasonover the entire Region (BAS). Eleven Prairie Falcons was early, warm and dry. It appears that were noted; those from the e. speciesthat migrate first are more responsive Dakotas, where sightings are to variations in weather. At Grand Forks the less frequent, were in Kidder Lainbethsfound that of the 80 speciesseen by County, N.D., Apr. 2 and Ab- April 15, 66 were earlier than in any of the erdeen May 8. Peregrine three precedingyears. By contrast, those ar- Falcons were at Fargo Apr. 27 riving after April 15 were at near normal (J'MAB, CAS) and L. I1o times. This is consistent with the observations N.W.R., N.D., May 3 (DNS). in the very cold spring of 1979, when many There were 3 other reports, all from North becauseit migrateslater than the other peeps. Purple Martins died, apparently from starva- Dakota. In all ten Merlins were noted from Reportsranged from May I in Clay County., tion, and warblers could be seen flitting all over the Region. S.D. (KJH) to June 9 at Minot (GBB) with a around leaflesstrees in early May. peak of 1000 at Fargo May 29 (MAB). GALLINACEOUS BIRDS THROUGH Balrd's Mar. 15-May 20, and Leasts Apr. 16 LOONS THROUGH DUCKS--Common RAILS--Native grouse populations were -May 9, are common but not often reported. Loons came in good numbers, including 19 lower at several sites, with Greater Prairie Tewaukon N.W.R., had 250 Dunlin May 15 on a small pond at Ft. Peck Apr. 23 (CMC) Chickens off 50% on leks in Stanley County, DGP). and a late one at Upper SourisN.W.R. (here- S.D. (RLS), Sharp-tailed Grouse off 5% at Short-billed Dowitchers were noted by 6 after, U.S.N.W.R.) May 27 (1OR). Eight U.S.N.W.R. (1OR) and Sage Grouse down observers from the c. and e. Dakotas. Some Red-necked Grebes were noted, with one on a an unspecified amount in Butte County., regional editors have consideredthem doubt- nest at Aberdeen May 14 (ECM). Observers S.D., (AS) and Spring Cr. Coal Mine, Mont. ful but the speciesoccurs every spring and continue to report a drop in Black-crowned (MWH). Ruffed Grouse, whose population identification is not difficult if the birds are Night Herons, with 40 at Long Lake N.W.R. cycle is weil-documented, were also on the vocal. All reports were from May 7-17 with (PTS) the largest number listed. A "large decline; do cycles occur for these others, or the maximum of nine below Oahe Dam May flock" of Trumpeter Swansat L. Elwell in n. are the lossesdue to habitat degradation, 9 (RLS). The much more common Long-bill- c. Montana, just s. of the Cypress Hills in drought, or some other cause? In contrast ed Dowitcher was reportedApr. 18-May 31 + Saskatchewan,where the speciesnests, was pheasants,partridge, Turkeys and Bobwhite with 50+ at Fargo May 13 the peak, al- seenMar. 10 (HMM). Peaks of 20,000 White- were all noted on the increase in South though larger flocks certainly were present. fronted Geese Apr. 5 and 360,000 Snow Dakota. Four Whooping Cranes made a rare Stilt Sandpiper dates were Apr. 18-May 29 Geese Mar. 26 (TKK) staged at Sand Lake showing near Rapid City Apr. 19, where they with the largestnumber 225 in Ward County N.W.R. (hereafter, S.L.N.W.R.) Early dates were viewed at leisure by Black Hills Aud. May 12. Five SemipalmatedSandpipers were for ducks should be of considerable interest Soc. members at a distance of 200 yards very early Mar. 29 at Ft. Peck (CMC) and following the mild winter, but the Region is (EMS). The only other confirmed report was both largest number and last date reported just too diverse to give an adequate picture of two s. of Minor, N.D., Apr. 13 (DCA, were 1000+ at Fargo May 29. Western Sand- here. Mallard, Gadwall, Pintail, Am. MBW) along the normal migration route. A pipersare rarely reported and probably rarely Wigeon, N. Shoveler, Redhead and Ring- single Yellow Rail May 16 in Kidder County, seen but three were at S.L.N.W.R., May 9 necked Duck had all arrived at Ft. Peck by N.D. (CAF) was the only occurrencereported (J'RHE,PRE). Two other sightings from Mar. 12 (CMC) but many of these species of this elusive species. South Dakota and one from North Dakota may have wintered in the Region. The peak were undocumented. Buff-breasted Sand- of Ring-neckeds was 350 in Ward County, SHOREBIRDS--The Great Plains pro- pipers included five at Rolla, N.D., May 3 N.D., Apr. 5 (GBB). Several Greater Scaup videssome of the most interestingand varied (PCH) and one in CassCounty, N.D., May were carefully compared with Lessers at shorebirding on the continent. Yet many ob- 16 (CAF). Sanderlingswere in all 3 states in Grand Forks Apr. 17 (DOL). Single Olds- serversmake no mention of the group or re- May with 100 at Ft. Peck the largestnumber quawsApr. 5 in Yankton County, S.D. (WH, strict notes to the larger, more conspicuous (CMC). A Black-necked Stilt was observed JEW) and Mar. 7 at Ft. Peck, and a Black species. Birders are encouraged to take ad- Apr. 28 at the Amoco Oil Refinery, Mandan, Scoter at Burke L., Gregory Co., S.D. (GLS) vantage of this opportunity. Thirty-four N.D. (J'W.A. Burns). were particularly unusual for spring. specieswere reported. Semipalmated Plovers moved through Apr. 26-May 24, with the GULLS AND TERNS--An imm. Thayer's RAPTORS--Fifty Turkey Vultures were largest number 38 May 16 at Jamestown. Gull Apr. 16 at Jamestown(J'CAF) marks the soaring over the Missouri R., in Hughes Large flocks of Am. Golden Plover were third North Dakota record; all are from the County, S.D., Apr. 12 (RLS). Goshawks 1500+ at Argusville, N.D., May 10 (DOL) past 2 years. Good numbers of Bonaparte's were noted in all 3 statesand a pair was at a and 3000-5000 at Fargo May 19 (CAS). Gulls were 155 in Yankton County, S.D., nestin the BearpawMrs., s. of Havre Apr. 12 Black-belliedPlovers were presentMay 6-24 Apr. 14 (WH) and 150 at Fargo May 6 (SJG). An exceptionally early Swainsoh's with the largest number 14 at Ft. Peck May (MAB). A single Arctic Tern, a first state Hawk was n. of Mandan Mar. 7 (K JJ). A 14. Ruddy Turnstones peaked at 12 each May record for North Dakota, was at Long Lake Swainson'snest was found only 6 ft off the 17 at Long Lake N.W.R., and May 22 at N.W.R., May I1. No further details were ground in a caragana hedge n. of Chester, Fargo (m.ob.). There was only one other submitted to the editor but documentation is Mont. (MEK). Eighteen Rough-legged report of this rare but striking bird. Long- on file with the N.D. Ornithological Records Hawks were reported in the period with a late billed Curlews were in Meade, Pennington Committee (J'CAF). The only Caspian Tern one at Grand Forks May 17 (SOL). Ex- and Haakon cos., S.D. (JLB, EEM, DLB) notes were of a pair at Ft. Peck for several periences of South Dakota observers in- where they had apparently been absent for days in early May (CMC) and singles in dicated that Ferruglnous Hawks abandon sometime. A flock of 65 Upland Sandpipers Grand Forks May 16-17 (GSL). nests at the slightest interference (RLS, resting on an island in Canyon L., in Rapid RDM, GLD). Six Golden Eagle-nests were City was an unexpectedtreat (JLB). A Red OWLS THROUGH WOODPECKERS-- reported from e. Montana (MWH, DSS, Knot was at Fargo May 22 (MAB). The com- Spring is the nestingseason for Great Horned NCF). A pair in Custer County, S. D., mon but rarely mentioned Pectoral Sand- Owls, and 23 nestswere reported. Burrowing returned to a tree usedpreviously for 12 years piper moved through North Dakota Mar. Owls continued a long decline. In w. South until the nest blew down during the winter of 27-May 22 (CAS). White-rumped Sandpipers Dakota where government-supportedpoison- 1979-80; the pair was unsuccessfulin a new are describedas locally uncommon in field ing of prairie dogs is widespread, birders find location last summer (BMN). A pair of guides and some area checklistsindicate that owls present in older colonies, but it takes Ospreyswas incubatingat Decker Coal Mine the speciesis not to be expected,but it proves them a few years to take up residencein new in Montana during May (NCF). Most falcons common every spring. It may be missed ones (EMS). Long-eared Owls are rarely

836 AmericanBirds, September1981 noted but one was seen regularly throughout at Fargo Apr. I and 19 Ruby-crownedsin the Apr. 29 (CAF). Rose-breasted Grosbeaks April in a Grand Forks cemetery(PS) and 3 Black Hills May 2. A very early Water Pipit were found to the w. in Butte County May 4 nestswere found within 5 mi of Woodworth, was at Grand Forks Mar. 24 (tDOL), and (AEM, ph.) and at Ft. Peck May 17. Fifteen N.D. (CAF). Whip-poor-wills are infrequent Sprague's Pipits arrived ahead of normal Black-headed Grosbeaks were seen in in North Dakota but were in both Jamestown Apr. I at Zahl N.W.R., in n.w. North Bismarck and neighboring vicinity May 17, and Grand Forks May 17. Poor-wills are Dakota (SWB). A Bell's Vireo was studied with 2 nestsfound (m.ob.). The only report regular in s.w. North Dakota but four in the carefully at a distanceof 12 ft in Hyde Coun- of a Dickcisselwas of one s. of Brookings North Unit of Theodore Roosevelt N.P., ty, S.D. (JHH). The eight Solitary Vireos in May 8 (NJH); the specieswas seenas in real May 24 (tDGD) were about 80 min. of nor- Bismarck were an unusually strong showing trouble in South Dakota. A House Finch in mal range. A total of six Ruby-throated May 17 (RNR). BismarckMar. 15 (RNR) may be a resighting Hummingbirds was recorded at Fargo May of the secondstate record of the past winter. 7-23 (MBB, AJL). Among the three Red- WARBLERS--While ranges of dates were Pine Grosbeaks left in mid-March, after a bellted Woodpecker listings, all from South normal, it was a better-than-averageyear for good winter showing,as did Com. Redpolls. Dakota, was one in Mellette County at the ex- numbers and variety, with 27 different Pine Siskins remained to nest in numbers treme w. edge of its range. Lewis' speciesreported. May 17 was one of the best throughout North Dakota, as they have been Woodpecker has declined in the Black Hills, warbler days that long-time observer RNR known to do after an invasion winter. A very with modern fire preventionthe likely culprit. has seen in Bismarck, with 18 speciesfound early Grasshopper Sparrow arrived w. of At Deadwood Hill, where as many as six by members of the Bismarck-Mandan Bird Kenmare Apr. 26 (AMG). Five Le Conte's pairs have nestedin recentyears, only two in- Club on their annual May field trip. Those of Sparrows from Grand Forks May 13 (DOL) dividuals were found May 4 {DLB). Six Yel- interest included ten Magnolias, one Cape were the only ones reported. All three low-bellied Sapsuckers, and a 9 Hairy May (DMR), two Blackburntans,one Chest- "crowned" sparrows showed well, Harris' Woodpecker which had been banded 16years nut-sided (RLQ, JCS), four Palms (RNR) Mar. 13 in Brookings County to May 17 in ago werenetted by banderNJH in Brookings and two Mourning warblers. Golden-winged Minot, White-crowned Apr. 5 in Butte Coun- County, S.D. A N. Three-toed Woodpecker Warblers were seen in e. North Dakota at ty to May 20 in Fargo, and White-throated was photographed May 23 in Lawrence Valley City May 2 & 17 and at Grand Forks Apr. 21 in Butte County and Grand Forks to County (NRW). May 16. A Nashville was a window casualty May 30. Unusual for South Dakota were the in PerkinsCounty, S.D., Apr. 30 (A&GH). A ten McCown's Longspurs at Buffalo Gap FLYCATCHERS THROUGH SWAL- Magnolia Warbler at Ft. Peck May 17 pro- Nat'l Grassland and 16 at Wind Cave N.P., LOWS-Kingbirds are rarely mentioned, but vided about the tenth record for Montana Mar. 3 (MJP). The only other report of this a tight flock of 100+ each of Easterns and ($CMC). Adding to the handful of Pine War- specieswas the arrival date of Apr. 19 at Westerns May 24 at U.S.N.W.R., was un- bler sightingsfor North Dakota was one May Chester (HMM). usual (GBB); they were distributedalong 100 12 at Valley City ($CAF). A Connecticut yards of a multiple-row shelterbelt, taking Warbler at Minot May 17 was unusual so far CONTRIBUTORS--(area editors in advantage of an enormous insect hatch. At w. (*GBB). The latest Mourning Warbler boldface). MONTANA--C. M. Carlson, J. least six Yellow-bellied Flycatchers in North noted was June 2 at Valley City (DLK). C. Carlson, N. C. Forester, S.J. Gniadek, M. Dakota and five Willow Flycatchersin South Hooded Warblers were in Brookings May 16 W. Humphris, M. E. Krook, H. M. Marble, Dakota were noted, with two of the latter (RB) and Fargo May 8-10 (*MAB). The pair D. S. Severe, B. A. Stettler. NORTH DAKO- banded near Brookings (NJH). Most ref- in Fargo furnishedthe third record from that TA--D. C. Anderson, M. A. Bergan, G. B. erences indicate that Willows are common-to- city since 1964. American Redstarts were Berkey, C. I. Bittner, M. B. Brophy, S. W. abundant, but even on BreedingBird Surveys "abundant in Stanley, N. D., May 12, with Buschtrig,D. G. Disbro, C. A. Faanes, P. P. when the birds should be singing, numbers one seemingly in every bush" (BCP). Forness, A.M. Gaminell, P. C. Hart, K. J. seemto be quite low. Earliest dates for swal- Johnson, D. L. Kubischta, D. O. Lambeth, lows were normal: Violet-green at Ft. Peck G. S. Lambeth, S. O. Lambeth, A. J. Lies, B. Apr. 18, Tree Apr. 6 and Rough-wingedand C. Pinkowski, D. G. Potter, R. L. Quanrud, Barn Apr. I0 at Yankton, Bank Apr. 28 at R. N. Randall, D. M. Rieckmann, I. O. S.L.N.W.R., Cliff Apr. 26 at U.S.N.W.R., Rostad, P. T. Smith, C. A. Spurbeck, D. N. and Purple Martin Apr. I at Burke, S.D. Svingen, P. Svingen, J. C. Swanick, M. B. Wright. SOUTH DAKOTA--J. L. Baker, R. CORVIDS THROUGH WRENS--Pifion Baker, D. L. Bjerke, P. R. Edens, R. H. Jay fledglings were evident in Rapid City Edens, W. Hall, J. H. Harter, A. & G. May 24. Reports of White-breasted Nut- Hinds, N.J. Holden, K. J. Hoover, T. K. hatches were about twice as many as of Red- Kessler, G. D. Levine, J. D. McLaird, R. D. breasteds,even though most observersfall to Michael, E. E. Miller, A. E. Montgomery, E. record the familiar resident but are careful to C. Montgomery, B. M. Nordstrom, M. J. note the less common transient {which also Parker, R. A. Peterson, R. G. Rogers, E. M. nestsregularly in the Black Hills). Two Dip- Serr, A. Shaykett, R. L. Spomer, G. L. Stef- per nestswere located in Spearfish Canyon in fan, N. R. Whitney, J. E. Wilcox. (•, docu- May (NRW). The only reports of Short-billed Hooded Warbler, third North Dakota mentation on file with state committee;ph., Marsh Wren were of singlesMay 3 at L. I1o record, Fargo, N.D., May 10, 1981. Photo photographed)--GORDON BERKEY, Divi- N.W.R. (DNS) and May 20 at Aberdeen /Greg S. Lambeth. sion of Seience,Minor State College, Minor, (ECM). True to the ways of the species,a ND 58701. Mockingbird was far out of range May 9 at Ft. Peck (JCC). Gray Catbirds and Brown ICTERIDS THROUGH LONGSPURS-- Thrashers arrived in Montana and North Western Meadowlarks came about 2 weeks Dakota at about the same dates, but in South early to North Dakota; the earliest date was Dakota early dates for thrashers were about 2 Mar. 3 at Fargo (PPF). Fifty Yellow-headed weeks earlier. A Wood Thrush in Bismarck Blackbirds on territory at Burke L., were the May 17 (ClB) provided one of the most west- first nestingattempts for the area {GLS). At erly records in North Dakota for this species, least five nestingpairs of Orchard Orioles in which has become a regular migrant in the Ft. Peck was a new high. This specieswas Red R. Valley. From w. South Dakota came first recorded nesting in Kenmare, N.D., in reports of E. Bluebirds Apr. 11 in Mellette 1960 and is still expandingN. and W. The County (RAP) and Apr. 26 in Lawrence fifth ScarletTanager record for Montana was County (AS). Three pairs of Moutain of one at Ft. Peck May 17-18 {JCC, $CMO, Bluebirds were nesting in the dead trees at ph.). Another, as yet undocumented, was Little Missouri Bay of L. Sakakawea{BCP). reported from the Chesterarea May 20. A c• Peaks of kinglets were 20 Golden-crowneds Summer Tanager was seen at Valley City J. David RenwaM

Volume 35, Number 5 837 SOUTHERN GREAT PLAINS N.W.R., Tex., about 50 geese died in early ! s.O^K. REGION March of undetermined /Frances Williams caused. The fatalities in- IOWA, cluded White-fronted, Canada and two Ross' ßr ...... 7 U.col.'Omaha . geese. A brood of "One of the most uneventful spring migra- Canada Geese goslings ß tions that I can recall." "The worst migra- was observed at Cres- tion in all my yearsof birding." Few rarities, cent L., Apr. 10, the ß • ß Shawnee very little conspicuousmigration, many com- earliest brood date on mon migrantshard to find." "Generally dis- record there. The newly •lmmaron.m• KANS.. • •0 appointing." "Rather dull." The preceding organized Val Verde ...... - 4 ' commentsreflect the opinionsof all Southern Nature Club, of Del • Salt PlaI•- Great Plains contributors except Scott Rio, Tex., reported that • ..... • Tulsa Seltman in west central Kansas, Elizabeth Black-bellied Whistling • A•rillo ' •. Hayes at Tulsa and Keith Arnold at College Ducks are regularly pre- M• •Y • ß ' • OMahoma ..• '"•" •'*•' • I •te.- City 'heaveher Station. Possibly local weather conditions at sent April-July in Val •Muleshoe• -•ts gB•okenBow those localities caused more grounding of Verde County and that migrants. last summer ducklings • ß W•:l•i• H•er•n N• R _. Generally, temperatureswere extraordinar- were observed (SMS, • •bbock Dallas g Abilene _ -. Z .. 3 LA ily mild. The migration period was longer m.ob.). Black-bellied ...... • • , N•cogdoches than normal, beginning earlier and ending Whistling Ducks were • ..... - Midland ß later, the migrants straggling through with reported at Dallas Apr. • ...... - - ß• •La•e Llvi•stm few evident peaks. The main impact of the 11 (WP et al.) and in balmy weather was the early developmentof Brazos County, Tex., ß . plant and insectlife and the consequentearly throughout the period MEXICO• Alpine• Kerrville' nesting of many bird species. (WAI). Two pairs of Mexican Ducks were LOONS THROUGH ANHINGA--A present on a small suburban lake at Alpine, Text, one in Red River County •d one m Com. Loon was still present on L. Conroe, Tex., Apr. 3 (GOW). Four Wood Ducks LimestoneCounty •iEe JY). • imm. Bald Montgomery Co., Tex., May 25. Two Horn- visited the same pond Apr. 5. Something Eagle was obsc•cd caring a freshly killed ed Grebes in Graham County, Kans., Apr. 13 special always seemsto turn up at the annual jack rabbit near •t. Davis, Tcx., were unusual at that locality. Large concen- meeting of the Nebraska Ornithologists' two Bald Eagleswcrc sccnjust n. of •t. Davis trations of Eared Grebesincluded 52 at Qui- Union. Last year it was a Burrowing Owl; June 6 (PE). Sevcnteen Ospreys were re- vira N.W.R., Kans., May 29 and 150 on a this year, May 16 at Grand I., it was a pair of ported, on dates ra•i• from M•. 29 at playa near Amarillo May 10. The W. Grebe Eur. Wigcons. A Cinnamon Teal was sighted D•las to May 4 at Oklahoma City. A C•a- which wintered on L. Conroe remained until in Douglas County, Neb., Mar. 8. Greater cara was observed in •av•ro County, Tex., Apr. 29. Nearly 2000 Double-crested Cor- Scaup were located in Tulsa County Mar. 14 Apr. 1 (•B,TG). In Big Bend N.P., some morants congregatedon Oologah Res., n.e. (JCH), Wichita Mar. 31 (DV) and in Cimar- mountain tr• •d some •o Grade can- of Tulsa Apr. 18. Six Anhingas were sighted ron County, Okla., on the late date of May 19 yons were closedto protect ncst•g Peregrine in Henderson County, Tex., Mar. 27 and one (JG). F•cons. Els•hcrc, 14 Peregrines were re- was at Waco Apr. 28. ported, more than in •y rc•nt year. VULTURES THROUGH FALCONS--A HERONS THROUGH IBISES--Little Black Vulture in Crosby County, Tex., Apr. PRAIRIE CHICKENS THROUGH Blue Herons appeared in Sarpy County, 10 provided one of the very few records for RAILS--An estimated 80 Lesser Prairie Neb., Apr. 18 & 22. Approximately 10,000 that area (KH). White-tailed Kites graced Chickens were present at Pratt Sandhills Cattle Egretsroosted for the night in a Mus- Dallas County May 26 (D J) and Brazos W.M.A., Pratt Co., Kans. Whooping Cranes kogee County, Okla., heronry May 25. One County May 8 (HH, JMC). MississippiKites visitedQuivira Apr. 7-12, with five birdspre- Cattle Egret in DawesCounty, Neb., May 23 appeared at their El Paso nest site May 10, a sent on the first date, seven on the latter. provided a first record for the Pine Ridge month early, and one was incubating at Mid- Soras arrived at Crescent L. by Apr. 17, the (RL) and one was found in Sarpy County land by May 28. MississippiKites in Big Bend earliest date on record, but by late May none Apr. 11, and May 9. Three flocks of Cattle N.P., May 18-19 were unusual, but not as respondedto taped calls. A Black Rail was Egrets, totaling 46 birds, were present along surprisingas one in JohnsonCounty, Kans., heard at Crescent L., May 29 (FZ). the Rio Grande in Brewster County, Tex., May 31 (MLM). A pair of Cooper's Hawks Apr. l 1. A Great Egret visited Crescent Lake was nesting in the Davis Mts. S.P., Tex., in PLOVERS THROUGH PHALAROPES N.W.R., Neb., May 2-9. Vagrant Louisiana April (JS, m.ob.). The Roschesobserved 90 --The best shorebird migration in years was Herons appeared in Crockett County, Tex., hawks of nine speciesaround the Nebraska reported at Omaha and at L. Rayburn in e. Apr. 24, Balmorhea L., Reeves Co., Tex., Pine Ridge Apr. 4. The only other hawk Texas. Ten SemipalmatedPlovers rested on a May 24 and Washington County, Okla., May flight reported was in Nacogdoches, Tex., mud flat near Cushing,Okla., Apr. 22. Pip- 26. Yellow-crownedNight Herons were nest- also Apr. 4, when over a thousand Broad- ing Plovers were presentat Oklahoma City ing in a park in Wichita May 14 (DV). Least winged Hawks sailed by in less than one Apr. 28 and May I (JN) and at Oologah Res., Bitterns were discoveredat Tulsa May 30 and hour. A Broad-winged Hawk was incubating Apr. 18 and May 10 (JCH). At Quivira, a in Douglas County, Kans., May 26. White- at Red River Ref., Grayson Co., Tex., during total of 59 Snowy Plovers was counted May faced Ibises were observed throughout the May (RAy). At Muleshoe N.W.R., Tex., a 30. Seven Mountain Plovers stopped in Region Apr. 26-May 31 + with a peak of 50 Broad-wingedHawk seenApr. 26 provided a Crosby County Mar. 20 (KH). Two pairs of at El Paso May 3. first record (KH, DS). A SwainsoWsHawk in Mountain Ploverswere nestingwithin 6 mi of Randall County, Tex., Mar. 15 was the earli- Ft. Davis, but several miles apart. On the WATERFOWL--A pair of Mute Swans est on record (PA). A Zone-tailed Hawk was other side of the Davis Mts., Mountain Plov- nested near Valley, Neb., where the cob at- discoveredin the Davis Mts., May 16 (JA). A ers had young by May 31 (PE). Both Am. tacked boaters who came too near the nest Ferruginous Hawk was on a nest in Logan Golden and Black-bellied plovers were pres- area. The origin of these swans is unknown County, Kans., Apr. 11 (SK). A sub-adult ent in many areas where they are considered (fide RGC). The resident pair of Trumpeter Gray Hawk was in a cottonwood grove near rare migrants. Ruddy Turnstoneswere noted Swansat CrescentL., wasjoined by two sub- the Rio Grande, Big Bend N.P., May 9 (RS). at 6 localities, with a peak of 24 in Rogers adult birds in March and a family of three in A Black Hawk flew over a residential area of County, Okla., May 24. An Am. Woodcock April. By May only four of these could still San Angelo, Tex., Mar. 28 (CCW). performed its eveningdisplay flights at Tulsa be located on the refuge (FZ). At Hagerman Two new Bald Eagle nests were found in Apr. 5-21 (m.ob.) and six were seenin Geary

838 American Birds, September 1981 County, Kans , May 2 (OR) A Red Knot was of May 2 From one spot s of the Smoky Hill the Rock Wren departed the Cactus Wren de- photographed in McClaln County, Okla., R., Geary County, they heard all four Kansas livered an insect to the nestlingsand then re- May 10 (JG). Two Red Knots remained at Caprimulgids, including the normally rare moved a pebble from near the nest (fide Quivira May 28-31. White-rumped Sandpip- Poor-will. A Poor-will was captured at Okla- GOW). Two Long-billed Marsh Wrens were ers were common at several locations May homa City Mar. 30 and one was heard in w. vocalizing at Crescent L., Mar. 5, 5 weeks 8-31, with a peak of 150 at Arlington, Tex., Tarrant County, Tex., Mar. 27-May 31. A earlier than the previous arrival record May 18. At least 500 Pectoral Sandpipersfed Poor-will nestwas found in EastlandCounty, Mockingbirds at Denton had fledged young along the shore of Oologah Res., Apr. 18. Tex., Apr. 8 (TG,FB). A Chuck-will's Wi- by Apr. 3. A Gray Catbird in Val Verde Counts of 50 Dunlins at Oologah and 35 at dow was heard in Sarpy County May 16. Ru- County Apr. 8-15 was noteworthy (BP) A Tulsa, both on May 10, were high for this fous Hummingbirds normally visit the Plains Long-billed Thrasher was found in Big Bend species.Sanderlings were commonon the Ne- only in fall, so one at Tulsa May 10 (E&KH) N.P., May 21 and June 6 (DW,JA). Reports braska Pine Ridge Apr. 20-May 31 +. Short- and one at Midland Apr. 3 (J&DM) were of Bendire's Thrasher continue to come from billed Dowitcherswere carefully identified in noteworthy. Acr Black-chinnedHumming- Texas, but to date no one has described the Sheridan County, Neb., May 2 (R&DR) and bird enjoyed a feeder in Comanche County, color of the ramus of the lower mandible or at Midland May 17 (DW). At Arlington, 40 Okla., Apr. 20 (JM). A 9 Red-bellied the shape of the gonydeal angle. A picture Buff-breasted Sandpipers were counted May Woodpeckerwhich wintered at Buffalo Lake publishedin a newspaperof a purported Ben- 20 (RLN). N.W.R., Tex., was still present May 31. dire's Thrasher obviouslyportrayed a Curve- A flock of 25 Marbled Godwits rested at Another was sighted at Lubbock May 3 billed Thrasher. Several Curve-billed Crescent L., Apr. 25. Small groups of Hud- (ML). A Red-headed Woodpecker which Thrashers inhabited a cemetery in Morton sonian Godwits visited Rogers, Cleveland, spent the month of May in Big Bend N.P., County, Kans..,in late May (SS). This species Osageand Tulsa countiesduring May and 50 provided the first record there since 1964 had nestlingsat Midland by Apr. 8. At least were present at Cheyenne Bottoms W.M.A., (m.oh.). one singingcr CrissalThrasher was presentin Kans., in late April. High counts of Am. Irion County, Tex., the last 2 weeks of May Avocetsincluded 120 at Oologah Apr. 26 and FLYCATCHERS--Eastern Kingbirds vis- (TM). This is the secondreport of what ap- 115 at Copan Res., WashingtonCo., Okla., ited Midland May 2 and Lubbock May 15. A pearsto be one of the very few populationsof the same day. Two Black-neckedStilts visited pair of Kiskadeeswas nestings. of Del Rio in this speciese. of the Pecos R. Val Verde County Apr. 13 (GB). EighteenN. late May (SMS). A Wied's CrestedFlycatcher Phalaropesin Cimarron County, Okla., May was observedin Big BendN.P., June6 (JA). THRUSHES THROUGH VIREOS--In E1 I (JG) and four at Crescent I_,., May 27 were A pair of Olivaceous Flycatchers seemed to Paso, the Davis Mrs., and Midland, Am late. A concentration of 10,000 Wilson's have established a territory in the Chisos Robins had fledged young by May 31. This Phalaropesrested at Lubbock Apr. 26 (CS). Mts., Big Bend N.P., during May (JA,RS, speciesseldom breeds in dry w. Texas A m.ob.). There are very few records of this Wood Thrush ventured to Pottawatomle GULLS AND TERNS--A Glaucous Gull speciesin Texas, and no nestingrecords. A County, Kans., May 2 (MS). A Gray-cheeked visited Cheyenne Bottoms for several weeks Say's Phoebe in Denton County, Tex., Mar. Thrush at Midland May 10 was the first in 20 in March (EM). A very white gull on L. Con- 22 was rather far e. (MM). Both Willow and years (J&DM). One was discoveredat Buffa- roe May 11-12 was much photographedand Alder flycatchers were heard at Tulsa May lo Lake N.W.R., May 17 (KS) and five were studiedbut wasfinally identifiedas a Herring 16. WesternWood Peweeswere nestingat Al- bandedat Huntsville Apr. 26-May 12 (RM) Gull (KB,TGa). A Laughing Gull was also pine and in the Davis Mrs., May 31. Acr Ver- A Veery was banded at Crescent L., May 5 present there. The usual enormous flocks of milion Flycatcher brightened Montgomery In Cowley County, E. Bluebirdshad fledged Franklin's Gulls were missing.Unusual num- County Apr. 6 (TGa) and a female was re- young by May 8. At Lubbock, a Mountain bers of Bonaparte's Gulls were seen, in- ported in Tarrant County Mar. 27 (L&AB). Bluebird lingereduntil May 3. Sprague'sPip- cluding23 in SheridanCounty, Neb., Apr. 20 its were located at Plattsmouth, Neb., Apr and 24 in Palo Pinto County, Tex., Mar. 15. SWALLOWS THROUGH NUT- 11, Norton County, Kans., May 21 and A Black-legged Kittiwake caused birders to HATCHES--Nesting Tree Swallows were Crosby County Apr. 11. A single Bohemian flock to Lincoln's Oak Lake P., Apr. 20-21 photographedat Oologah Res., Nowata Co., Waxwing accompanieda large flock of Cedar (RW, m.ob.). Reports of the "uncommon" Okla., Apr. 18 and two other nests were Waxwings at Tulsa Mar. 25. The Gray Vireos Com. Tern came from Great Salt Plains found May 23. This is apparently the first which summer at the roadside park w of N W.R., May 16 (JCH), BartlesvilleMay 17 documented record of nestingTree Swallows Sheffield, Tex., on US 290 were nest building (ED), Cowley County, Kans., May 9 (DV et in Oklahoma (JCH). By May 31, 258 adult May 8 (HW). The new 1-10 highwaywill by- al), Midland May 10 (RMS). The small and ten nestling Bank Swallows had been passthis site, diminishing the disturbanceand nesting colony of Least Terns on a sandy banded in Ottawa County, Okla. (PWW). traffic there. In the Ft. Worth-Dallas area, island in the Arkansas R., within the city of Rough-wingedSwallows were nestingin Jeff Bell's Vireo was formerly considereda "com- Tulsa had a minimum of 6 active nests May Davis County, Tex., for the first time (PE). mon summer resident". Now it nests there 31 (JCH). There were 29 Least Terns at Purple Martins were sightedin El Paso May very rarely if at all, and few were seen this Quivira May 29, ten at Great Salt PlainsMay 17; this speciesis continually expandingin w. spring(RDC). However, the specieswas pres- 16 and single birds at Oologah May 17 and Texas. Black-billed Magpies visited Pratt ent in excellent numbersin Nowata County, Cowley County May 9. An amazing95 Black County Apr. 12 (SK) and two were seen at Okla. (JCH) and Gillespie County, Tex Terns graced a Payne County, Okla., lake Quivira in late May (RB). Fish Crows were (E&KM), while good riparian habitats in the May 11. found in Nowata County Apr. 5 & 26 (JCH). w. part of Texas nearly always host a nesting Five Bridled Titmice were studiedclosely in pair or two. Yellow-throated Vireos graced CUCKOOS THROUGH WOODPECK- the ChisosMrs., May 12 (HW). There are no Wichita May 16 and Tulsa Apr. 18 & May 13 ERS-An early Yellow-billed Cuckoo ap- specimensof this speciesfor Texas, and only It was the best spring ever for Philadelphia peared at Sherman, Tex., Apr. 3. A Black- two previous sight records. In late May, Vireos at CollegeStation, Tulsa and Wichita billed Cuckoo was banded at Huntsville, Bushtits were nesting at Big Spring, Tex., Tex., Apr. 17 (RM) and one was seenat Qui- providing a first record there (PM). White- WARBLERS--At Tulsa, 424 warblers of vlra May 31 (JS). Groove-billed Anis were breastedNuthatches were present at Crescent 28 specieswere tallied and at Huntsville, 527 found in Val Verde County Apr. 8-15 (BP) L., Apr. 28-May 30. Red-breasted Nut- of 20 specieswere banded. At Omaha 27 spe- and Kinney County May 9 & 14 (I&DB). A hatchesremained in Brazosand Montgomery cieswere countedMay 9, while at Bartlesville Barn Owl nest with two chicks was found in a counties until late April. 26 specieswere seenduring the period. Else- quarry in Tulsa County May 30. A pair of where it was a very poor warbler year, with Burrowing Owls with six owlets lived on the WRENS THROUGH MIMICS--In Co- few rarities discovered,most uncommon spe- campus of Midland College. A lone Long- manche County, Okla., a singing House cies absent and some common speciesscarce eared Owl frequented the headquartersarea Wren built nests in 3 houses, but it had no Worm-eating Warblers appearedin Kinney of Crescent L., Apr. 10-14 and one was mate (L&EB). At Alpine, a Rock Wren built County Apr. 11, Tulsa May 10, Sarpy Coun- found in SedgwickCounty, Kans., Mar. 28. a nest in a wood pallet and hatched five ty Apr. 29 and Plattsmouth May 9. A Gold- Birders at the Kansas Ornithological Society young. The Rock Wren chasedaway a Cactus en-winged Warbler visited Sarpy County May springmeeting had a rare treat on the evening Wren which approachedthe nest, but after 9. Four Blue-winged Warblers were banded

Volume 35, Number 5 839 at Huntsville in April (R J) and one was seen ty, 301 were banded Mar. l-May 31. A Red Delap, Joe Grzybowski, Elizabeth & Ken in Kerr County May 7 (RS). A N. Parula Crossbillin a mesquitetree near San Angelo, Hayes, J.C. Hoffman, Dee lsted, Janet strayedto El PasoMay 28 (SW). A Virginia's Tex., Apr. 30 was a surprising sight McGee, John Newell, Wally Whaling, Paul Warbler was seen at Buffalo L., Apr. 19 (IW,MC), as was a White-winged Crossbill in W. Wilson. Texas: Peggy Acord, Keith Arn- (KS), and a TennesseeWarbler was noted at a sweet-gum tree at Tulsa Mar. 10 (WW). A old, John Arvin, Mike Austin, Landon & Lubbock May 2 (CS). Magnolia Warblers Red Crossbillin the ChisosMts., Apr. 20 was Ada Beaver, F. Becker, Irene & Dave Blair, brightened Baldwin City, Kans., May 28 in suitable habitat (JT). Birders looking at Ginny Bolland, Charles Brown, Lillian (RLB), PawneeCounty, Kans., May 19 (SS), nests of Cave and Cliff swallows under a Brown, Kelly Bryan, J.M. Campbell, R.C. Bartlesville May 9, 13, 17 (m.ob.) and Buf- bridge near Alpine, Tex., were amazed to Coggeshall, Mary Creel, Pansy Espy, Tony falo L., May 10 (KS). A Cape May Warbler find a big scrappynest of a Brown Towhee on Gallucci (TGa), T. Gollob, Kelly Himreel, H. appeared at Omaha May 10. A Blackburnian a concrete ledge. Hobart, W.A. Isbell, D. Jackson, Ray Jo- Warbler visited PawneeCounty, Kans., May In s.w. Texas, abundant fail and winter chetz, Rick LoBclio, Mark Lockwood,Terry 19. A Yellow-throated Warbler sojourned in rains caused a luxurient spring growth of Maxwell, Polly Mays, Joan & Don Merritt, Sarpy County May 2-16 and one rested in forbs and a superlativehatch of insects,lead- Ralph Moldenhauer, M. Moore, Ernest & Johnson County, Kans., May 8. Gmce's ing to unprecedentednesting by Lark Bunt- Kay Mueller, R.L. Neill, Bob Pope, Warren Warblers strayed to Hemphill County in the ings. In May, Wiedenfeld found 4 Lark Bunt- Pulich, Rena Ross, Rod Rylander (RRy), Texas Panhandle Apr. 12 (RR) and to Hueco ing nests in Crockett County. He reported John Schmidt, Kenneth Seyffert, Sylvestre Tanks S.P., Tex., Apr. 26 (m.ob.). Black- many widely scatteredLark Buntingson the M. Sorola, Rich Stallcup, Darleen Stevens, polls were reportedat Oklahoma City May 13 open prairie in both Crockett and Irion Cliff Stogner, RoseMarie Stortz, J. Trochet, & 18 and at Waco May 9. A Pine Warbler counties and surmised that thousands were Barry Vermillion, Henry West, Geth O. was noted in Val Verde County Apr. 8-15. A nesting.On June 4, Arvin saw a pair carrying White, C.C. Wiedenfeld, Iris Wiedenfeld, Prairie Warbler at Oklahoma City May 13 food to a nest 3 min. of Alpine. The only Scott Wilson, David Wolf, Jim Yantis.-- was newsworthy. Palm Warblers were discov- previous nestingrecord in Texas, other than a FRANCES WILLIAMS, Rt. 4, 2001 Broken ered at Tulsa May 5, Bartlesville May 2, very few in the panhandle, was in Schleicher Hills Rd. E., Midland TX 79701. Amarillo May 10 and Coilin County, Tex., County in 1931. Apr. 26. Northern Waterthrushes made an A Lark Bunting in Gardner, Kans., May 19 excellent showing May 2-18. A Kentucky was very far e. (RLB). Common speciesof Warbler netted and photographed at Cres- sparrows were scarce but there was an ex- cent Lake N.W.R., Apr. 28, provided a first cellent showing of speciesnormally classified record for the Nebraska panhandle (FZ). as "uncommon." Grasshopper Sparrows Mourning Warblers strayed to Kinney Coun- were abundant in Pratt County, Tulsa, Gil- ty Apr. 21 & 29 and Sedgwick County May lespieCounty, Midland and Big Spring. They 19. A Hooded Warbler netted and were nestingin Gillespie County May 21. A photographed at Crescent L., May 2 provid- Baird's Sparrow was carefully identified at ed the first refuge record. A Canada Warbler Muleshoe N.W.R., Apr. 26 (KH,DS). Le stopped in Pawnee County, Kans., May 19. Conte's Sparrowswere found during April at 6 Texas localities and until May 24 at Tulsa ICTERIDS, TANAGERS--In Stafford and Rogers County. Sharp-tailed Sparrows County, Kans., 28 c• Bobolinks were singing were discoveredin Geary County May 2 (SS) on territory May 31. Several were seen at and in Washington County, Okla., May 1 & 3 Tulsa May 10, one lingered in Kaufman (ED). County, Tex., May 3-9, and six were seen at Like Lark Buntings, Cassin's Sparrows Nacogdoches May 10. A Scott's Oriole took advantage of the lush growth in s.w. wandered to Big Spring May 13 (PM). In Texas and nested early and in numbers. Irion County, a Scott's Oriole nest with three Adults were feeding fledglingsat Midland by eggs was discovered May 19 (TM). Great- May 17. It is not surprising that Seyffert in tailed Grackles appeared in Pottawatomie the Texas panhandle asked, "What has hap- County, Kans., and in Lawrence, Kans. A W. pened to the Lark Burnings and Cassin's Tanager wandered to Real County, Tex., Sparrows? They arrived very late and were May 12 (SW). An Hepatic Tanager was extremelydifficult to find." Migrating Chip- discoveredat El Paso May 13. A Scarlet ping Sparrows were abundant in April and Pat Lynch Tanager at CollegeStation Apr. 16 was very May from San Angelo to Midland. Two c• early. Six additional records in the Region Field Sparrows were on territory in lrion ranged May 3-17. County May 21-31 (TM). Swamp Sparrows were located in Ellis County, Okla., Apr. 4 FRINGILLIDS--Cardinals in Comanche (JG) and El Paso May 2. A c• Lapland Long- County, Okla., had fledged young by Apr. spur in breedingplumage was found in Ness SOUTH TEXAS REGION 15. Rose-breasted Grosbeaks made an ex- County, Kans., Apr. 11. A Smith's Longspur /John C. Arvin cellent showingMay 2-20, with a peak of 15 was carefully identified in Crosby County in one tree in Washington County, Okla., Mar. 13 (ML,CS). May 8. Black-headedGrosbeaks stopped in lrion County May 23, Huntsville S.P., Tex., CORRIGENDUM: In AB 35:200, the Many observerscommented on the consist- Mar. 13, Comanche County May 11-15, Flammulated Owl reported sent to the Texas ently strong SE winds and consequentdearth Wichita Apr. 24. An Indigo Buntingin Mon- Cooperative Wildlife Collection at Texas of grounded nocturnally-migrating passerines tgomery County Mar. 5 was very early. In- A&M proved not to be that species. during March and the first [hree weeks of digo Buntingswandered W to CrescentL., April. The first real break in this pattern May 7 and Hueco Tanks May 2. Lazuli Bun- CONTRIBUTORS AND INITIALED came April 23 as a low pressure trough and tings gracedPawnee County May 19, Geary OBSERVERS--Kansas: Amelia Betts, Roger trailing cold front swept acrosscoastal areas. County May 3, Big Spring May 13 and L. Boyd, Ralph Bryant, Katherine Kelley, In Corpus Christi by afternoon Kay Mc- Midland May 2. At Tulsa, 15 Evening Stephen Kingswood, Ed Martinez, Mary Cracken reported that "birds were falling out Grosbeaks were counted Apr. 12. A small Louise Myers, Orville Rice, Jean Schulen- of the sky." The entire Corpus Christi North flock remainedin Sarpy County until P•pr. berg, Scott Seltman, Marty Stapanian, Don- Padre Island area was "loaded with every- 28. At BaldwinCity, 172Purple Finches were ald Vannoy. Nebraska: R.G. Cortelyou, thing." Similar conditions were experienced banded Mar. l-Apr. 5 (KK). A 9 House Ruth Green, Randy Lawson, Mabel B. Ott, all along the coast from the Lower Rio Finchvisited a feederin Chadron, Neb., Apr. Richard & Dorothy Rosche, Melba Wigg, Grande Valley (hereafter, L.R.G.V.) to the 16. Pine Siskins remained until the end of Rick Wright, Fred Zeillemaker. Oklahoma: "migrant traps" around Gaivestonand High May throughout the Region. A[ Baldwin Ci- Leonard & Esther Beavers, Pat Bergey, Ella Island.

840 American Birds, September1981 totally unpreparedfor the concentration of shorebirds near Anahuac unprecedented flight of Apr. 28 included 2000 Stilt Sandpipers,2000 1981. One can trace the Long-billed Dowitchers, 1500 Lesser .... 'q •IF . Bastrop B...... '..iT*'•.- ...... cj•.•'4• eAt,•ErroHouston ß _ •Cove '"• path of this conspicuous Yellowlegs, 100 Hudsonian Godwits, 50 Pec- species N from the toral, 30 Baird's and 20 White-rumped sand- . "::• -• Rio I Antono O' AREA L.R.G.V., through the c. pipers (RS). coast and E to the Two Glaucous Gulls were in the Bolivar :: :...... Eagle Pass . U.T.C., where it becomes area well into May (ph., RS, m.ob.). Two diffuse, probably owing others were recorded in early April at Port •:: ' ::::•'::• '"'--•' Alice. to the spreading of birds Aransas(CC), and a lone bird was sightedat •' •:'•'••'-'--':•- 'o •u•c•s•P• from the coastal prairies Boca Chica beach, Cameron Co., Mar. 21 into the humid forests to (P&JW). This specieshas become regular in the n. Reports came from very small numbers along the entire coast in Brownsville(up to i0 in a the last 5 years. Perhaps part of the same flock, fide NB), Har- trend, a Great Black-backed Gull, reported lingen (WP), Laguna from Kemah on Galveston Bay Apr. 16 may Atascosa (GB) and Santa have been the controversial bird seen there Ana N.W.R., and Bent- sinceNovember 1980. Although severalbirds sen S.P., in the L.R.G.V., have been reported as this speciesat various Falfurrias (AO), and points along the coast in recent years, there many sites in the Rock- seemsto be no officially accepted record for port-Aransas N.W.R. the state. Details are said to be available i:•;j::...... '-•:;...... 'i;:•.•:::::::;:;..:•?...:::.:...: ...• ...... area where Clark com- (DH). Two Thayer's Gulls were very care- On the Upper Texas Coast Felther and par- piled sightingsof 49 individuals. At least one fully and knowledgeablydescribed from the ty, working the wood• patch• along the flock of 12 at Aransas N.W.R., was not in- Bolivar Flats Apr. 7 (AW). coast between Galveston and Sabine Pass cluded in his totals (SL). In all, the flight ex- April 23-25, •elded the following totals: tended from about Mar. 9-Apr. 18. Are PIGEONS THROUGH WOODPECK- Gray Catbird ISm, SwaMsoWs Thrush Swallow-tailedKites explosivelyincreasing in ERS--A Red-billed Pigeon at Laguna Atas- Gray-choked Thrush IS• [•], Black-and- numbers and expanding their range as have cosa N.W.R., Feb. 12 provided the refuge's white Warbler 4•, TennesseeWarbler 15•, White-tailed and Mississippi kites? If not, first record in many years (ph., SJ). Else- B•ck-throated Green Warbler 170, Northern what influences funneled Swallow-tailed where in the few riparian woodlandsalong WatertMush 2•, Ovenbird 600, Hooded Kites along the Texas coast in numbers in the Rio Grande where the speciesstill hangs Warbler 150, Nor•em Oriole 650 and Indigo 1981, a route only scatteredindividuals have on in miniscule numbers it seems to be down Bunting ISm. elected to follow in the past? slightly from last year's encouragingcount A series of Dents accompani• by rain Most observers omitted mention of Broad- (JA). A Green Violet-ear, Colibri thalassinus, continued to ground migr•ts through the winged Hawks so we must assumethat no surprisedand delightedupper coastobservers first half of May. May 4-6 perhapsedged-out breathtaking concentrationswere seen.Three by appearing at a feeder in Brazoria County April 23-25 as the "best all-around" ground- thousand at Beeville Apr. 4 (JR, fide VG) May 26 (FH). It remained well into June for ing of the springof 1981. A strongfront May seemsto be the largest group reported. One the eighth state (and U.S.) record and the 9-11 brought record low t•peratur• and a hundred at Bentsen S.P., May 3 seemslate first record for the U.T.C. The Buff-bellied noteworthy "fallout" to the Upper T•as for that many (JA). Hummingbird may be extendingits range NE Coast (hereafter, U.T.C.). along the coast. Its continuedpresence in the Jim Morgan report• that following the QUAILS THROUGH GULLS--Scaled CorpusChristi area wasnoted (KM) and sev- passageof a squall line May 14, he r

Volume 35, Number 5 841 the specieshas been undertakingin the plains surprisingas most of Texas' breedingSwain- March (KM) and a very late bird at Bolivar states. The Brown Jay population in Starr son's are on territory by mid-April. Another May 25 (TG). Lasley reported flocks of County appeared stable, but no recent Swainson's Warbler attracted attention in the 150-200 Pine Siskins moving through the sightingsof this specieshave been reported Austin area when CS found a singingbird Austin area in March. Singlesiskins Apr. 26 from the San Ygnacio, Zapata Co. area, May 3. A pair of Tropical Parulas was at BentsenS.P. (JA) and May 6 at Houston where a few were seen off and on. A Corn. located at Bentsen S. P., Apr. 11 (JA) and (RP) were the last reportedthis season.Very Crow near Pawnee, n.w. Bee Co., May 24 thereafter(PN, m.ob.). If breedingoccurred, late were a Le Conte's Sparrow near Austin was somewhat w. of that species' normal it would mark the first known breeding at- May 16 (GL) and a Sharp-tailed Sparrow at limits in our area (JA). Mexican Crow num- tempt in the L.R.G.V., since 1966. All known Bolivar May 20 (TG). SongSparrows are rare bers dwindled from > 2000 in late winter to breeding in the United Statessince that date from the c. coast s. Therefore Clark's six by Apr. 25 at the Brownsville landfill. The has been by the too-well-known Sarita rest repeated sightings of one to two birds specieshad retired to its breeding colonies in stop pair. Three Cape May Warblers on N. through middle and late March are of in- Tamaulipas entirely by May 1 (JA). A Curve- Padre I., May 1 (RS) and two Black-throated terest. Acr Chestnut-collaredLongspur in billed Thrasher, far n.e. of its usual haunts Blue Warblers at Galveston Apr. 22 (TG) "almost breeding" plumagewas reportedin (except for the one or two that have fre- were the best individual sightings of these gratifying detail from Anahuac N.W.R, quented GalvestonI., for severalyears), was normally Antillean-route migrants. One or Mar. 21 (HK). There are very few recordsfor found near High I., and carefully described two Townsend's Warblers appear every this specieson the upper coast. by the Wolfs Apr. 23. migration seasonas s. Texas is located very near the main route of this species.A female CONTRIBUTORS AND CITED OB- PIPITS THROUGH WARBLERS--Three wasat SantaAna N.W.R., Apr. 15 (PN), and SERVERS-Bruce Barrett, Bob Behrstock Sprague'sPipits at Boca Chica Apr. 16 were another female was seenon N. Padre I., May (BBe), Neva Benn, Gene W. Blacklock, the last seenin the area for the season(JA). 1 (RS). Golden-cheekedWarblers arrived on David Blankinship, JamesBohmfalk, Gary Late was a Golden-crownedKinglet at High territoriesMar. 8 in the Austin area (BL). Burke, Mike Carter, Charles Clark, Doug I , Apr. 19 (BBe), a Ruby-crowned Kinglet Cook, Rhea Copening,Wesley Cureton, Ted May 11 in Houston (WC) and 25 Cedar Wax- ICTERIDS THROUGH FINCHES--Bob- L. Eubanks, Jr., John Eyre, Ben Feltnet, wings June 4 in Laredo (JB). Black-capped olinks were relatively commonly reported on Tony Gallucci, Velma Geiselbrecht,William Vireos arrived Mar. 26 in the Austin area the upper coastwith flocks of up to 75 in the Graber, Diana Herron, P.D. Hulce, Faye (EK) A Black-whiskered Vireo, furnishing Galveston area (m.ob.). Five males were at Humphrey, Sam Jojola, Charles and Hilde Texas' second record, was present on Austin May 9 (EK). The Austin area also Kaigler, Kirke King, Hugh Kingery, Ed Galveston I., Apr. 30-May 3 (PDH, SS et hosted flocks of 250 Yellow-headed Black- Kutac, Steve Labuda, Jr., Jeri Langham, al) Full details were submitted. Another birds Apr. 23 and 150 May 15 (GL). The ma- Greg and Becky Lasley, Ray Little, Terry Lit- rare vireo, the Yellow-green, also turned up jor grounding of May 3-5 produced "thou- tle, Mark Lockwood, Kay McCracken, in its old haunts this spring at Santa Ana sands"of N. (Baltimore)Orioles throughout Henrietta Melton, Jim Morgan, Paul Nistico, N W R. Four were mist-netted and banded the Corpus Christi area (KM, PR). Large Andrew O'Neill, Randy Pinkston, Wayne May 20-June 1 incidentalto a studyof Bronz- numbers of Com. Grackles moved into the Potter, Barbara and John Ribble, Linda ed Cowbirdbrood parasitism (MC). None of Rockportarea in March, peakingat 900 Mar. Roach, Paul Rockwell, SteveSchultz, Chuck these birds was seen before or after capture 25 (CC). A large nesting colony, surely the Sexton, Rich Stallcup, Jack Sunder, and no singingwas heard in the area. They southernmost in the state, is located in the Leonabelle Turnbull, Fred S. Webster, Jr, are presumed to be "floaters" at the peri- Guadalupe R. bottoms about 50 mi n.e. of Phyllis and Jack Wilburn, Mimi and David phery of the species'range. Rockport. A flock of 70 Com. Grackles in Wolf, Alan Wormington, Jim Yantis, A Swainson's Warbler, first ever for Webb Falfurrias through February and March were T.P.R.F. = Texas Photo Record County, was "forced down by a heavy O'Neill's first in that area. Reports of Black- File.--JOHN C. ARVIN, P.O. Box 3517, thunderstorm" May 24 (JB). It was held for headed Grosbeaks were widespread with McAllen, TX 78501. recuperation 2 days and released.The date is birds at Beeville (VG) and Corpus Christi in

NORTHWESTERN CANADA The relatively warm months of January and /Helmut Griinberg February allowed the snow cover to melt ear- ly. A cool March and April may have stalled a What a springseason! About one fourth of few speciessouth of our the bird speciesreported here were new for area and caused them to the area or consistedof accidentalspecies. migrate through later The reasonfor this influx of rarities may have and more quickly than been related to the weather conditions in usual. Waterfowl seem- areas south and southeastof the Region in ed to have been just this and in previous seasons. The total about on time. Late number of speciesreported by contributors migrantswere apparent- was "only" 188 and would probably have ly not affected at all by been higher if the observersfrom southern the weather pattern. parts of the Region had submitted complete Habitat destruction specieslists. and disturbancesby in- This report does not include observations dustry and by motorized from the far north because the observers in residents have drasti- those isolated but rich areas had not returned cally reduced the num- to civilizationat the time this report waspre- bers of shorebirds ob- pared. Instead, we are pleased to include a served near Fort St. substantial number of observations from the John. area around Fort St. John, northeastern British Columbia, an area that is located be- PELICANS tween three reporting Regions of American THROUGH Btrds and has therefore been neglecteffinthe RAPTORS--Two past We appreciatehaving receivedthe first White Pelicans were set of valuable contributions from Chris spotted at the con- Slddle. fluence of Pine and

842 American Birds, September1981 Peace R , May 14 (B & DC, fide CS0 The TelegraphCr,nw BC,Apr 17-18(HG) B C , May 28 (SC) Who is going to report observation of an lmm. Double-crested Cor- The first Rufous Hummingbird arrived at the Ovenbird for the Yukon for the first morant at the s. end of Charlie L., Fort St. Graham Inlet, n. B.C., in its nesting area time? John area B.C., May 28 may have been the May 1. One male and one female were Two singingcy N. (Baltimore) Orioles, at first Peace R. area record for this species reported thereafter (MBr3. A Pileated least two pairs of Brewer's Blackbirds, a W (CSa, CSi). Since there were many areas of Woodpecker was seen in Wood Buffalo Tanager, a Rose-breasted Grosbeak and open water at the end of March and in April, N.P., Mar. 9 (SO), and one was noted at several Evening Grosbeaks were observed at swans were scattered over many lakes and Liard Hotsprings, n. B.C., May 27 (RCan, Liard Hotsprings May 27-28 (RCan, SC, rivers in the s. Yukon and were seenby many SC, LV). Yellow-bellied Sapsuckersappear LV). These are all speciesthat are accidental observers. A flock of 5000+ swans, to have been fairly common in the s. Yukon. or unreportedin the Yukon which is only 60 presumably mostly Whistling Swans, was Two individuals of the ruber race were seen km farther n. The first observation of a Nor- noted flying N at the Yukon Game Farm, near Telegraph Cr., n.w.B.C., Apr. 18 (HG, thern (Baltimore) Oriole in the Yukon in 1980 n w. of Whitehorse(BD, DN, US). The total PM). should be mentioned in this connection One number of Trumpeter Swans in the s. Yukon cybird wasseen and heardsinging (SFo) June was probably a few hundred (m.ob.). The FLYCATCHERS THROUGH WAX- 11, 1980, at the Yukon Game Farm and was unusual sightingof an e. Brant (Branta ber- WINGS--Confusion reigns again with observed for 2-3 weeks thereafter. The obser- mcala hrota) was reported from km 80, respect to Alder and Willow flycatchers. RF vation was confirmed by 5 other people Dempster Hwy., c. Yukon, where it was seen and HG observed independently in c. and s. (B&PF, DFo, DN, US). The suspectedbut for severaldays in late May (NB, JO, fide Yukon that the birds which were assumed to unconfirmed observation of a group of RF). The first record for the Yukon of a be Alder Flycatchers called the two-syllabled Cassin'sFinches at a feederin Teslin, Yukon, European Wigcon came from the Yukon "fits-hew", and only occasionally did they mixed with a group of Purple Finches(LG) is Game Farm as one cybird was observedMay sing a slurred "fee-be-o" that sounded more mentioned here to encouragebirdwatchers to 3 (BD, DN, US). The large influx of Red- like "fee-beer" as indicated in Godfrey's The document rare sightings by photographs headsthis spring in the s. Yukon was surpris- Birds of Canada (1966). From Liard Hot- and/or detailed descriptions.The secondand ing. Redheads were observed in groups of springs, a Hammond's Flycatcher was third record for the Yukon of a Clay-colored 2-25 in many areas by many observers in reported without details May 28 (RCan, SC, Sparrow was obtained this spring. SC heard April and early May. LV). Another Empidonax flycatcher was and saw two or more males in willow scrub at A pair of Red-tailed Hawks including one identified as Dusky Flycatcher by voice and Teslin Airport besidethe runway May 28 In- of the Harlan's subspecies,was on territory habitat 10 km n. of Whitehorse May 24 & 30 dependent from this observation, MBe and in an area 10 km n. of Whitehorse May 29 (MBe, HG). HG heard and saw one male in arctic dwarf (MBe, HG). The locally rare Broad-winged Seven swallow species in the Yukon was birch scrub at Swan L., May 30. If only one Hawk, stretching its range limit to the w., certainly a new record for one season. A of the 10 photos taken from 8-10 m distance was observed4 times (at least three different Rough-winged Swallow was briefly seennear turns out well, we will have a well- birds) in the Fort St. John area May 2-10 Whitehorse in late May (MBe). Among a documentedrecord of this species.The obser- (CSi et al.). A Swainson's Hawk was seen cloud of swallows at Swan L., a Purple Mar- vation of Song Sparrows was reported from near Whitehorse Apr. 26 (RCar). A few tin was picked out and identified beyond Atlin, B.C., May 27 (K J). Gyrfalcons were reported from the Yukon doubt (secondrecord for the Yukon) May 30 Game Farm and the Haines Rd., during (MBe, HG). CONTRIBUTORS--M. Bentley (MBe), migration (BD, DN, US) while only one One to three Mountain Chickadees was N. Barichello, M. Bossenmaier(MBo), M Peregrine, observed on the Haines Rd., was observed in Whitehorse at the same feeder as Brook (MBr), G. Brunner, J. Bunker, P seenthis season(SF1, fide DN). reported in fall 1980 and winter 1980-81. The Cadieux, R. Cannings (RCan), S. Cannings, three were seen throughout March and until R. Carlson (RCar), B. & D. Culling, B COOTS THROUGH WOODPECKERS-- Apr. 17 (D & LS). A White-breasted Nut- Davies, L. Ehrlich, S. Fleck (SFI), B. & P Yukon observations of the uncommon Am. hatch ventured N of its normal range and ap- Field, D. & S. Ford (D&SFp), R. Frisch, L Coot were as follows: one along the Klondike peared at the mouth of the Halfway R., Fort Geddes, D. & S. Hackney, W. Harms, K Hwy., c. Yukon May 5 (DMo, fide RF), one St. John area, where it was observed for over Johannes, J. Kehoe, M. Ledergerber, B on a pond n. of CarcrossMay 11 (RCar, NW) an hour Apr. 26 (CSi). The report of a flock Lieff, P. Mantle, D. Mossop (DMo), D and four on Swan L., 20 km n. of White- of 50 + Cedar Waxwings along the Atlin Rd., Muirhead (DMu), T. Munson, D. Nowlan, J horse, May 24 (MBe, LE, HG, TM). Five Mar. 28 (DS) sent the Regional Editor to the Obst, S. Oosenbrug, K. Ostrom, D. & S Baird's Sandpipers were seen in Whitehorse telephone, only to have confirmed that the Russell, C. Saxon (CSa), U. Schmigale,D & around May 10 (MBe), and two were observ- observer was sure he had not mistaken it for a L. Schuler, J. Shaxon, C. Siddle (CS0, K ed at Swan L., May 24 (MBe, LE, HG, TM). flock of Bohemian Waxwings. Southworth,B. Stewart,..L.Vastington, N A Short-billed Dowitcher was noted at Wolffe.--HELMUT GRUNBERG, Yukon Klaune L., near Duke Meadows May 14 VIREOS THROUGH SPARROWS--Two Conservation Society, 302 Steele Street, (WH). Swan L. had up to ten or more in- Solitary Vireos were noted at Liard Hot- Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada, YIA 2C5. dividuals May 24+ (MBe, LE, HG, TM). springsMay 2%28 (RCan, SC, LV). Two Five Hudsonian Godwits, considered to be singing Red-eyed Vireos were seen at Beatton casual migrants in the Peace R. area, were P. P., Fort St. John area May 23. Thereafter, reported from Cecil L., Fort St. John area the speciesbecame common in the area (CSi). Apr. 29 (CSi). Yukon observations of the About three Warbling Vireos were observed rare Wilson's Phalarope were again made at near Swan L., 20 km n. of Whitehorse May Swan L., where this speciesis known to nest. 29-30 (MBe, HG). Three were noted at Liard It was noted May 15 + and outnumbered all HotspringsMay 27 (RCan, SC, LV). The un- other shorebirds May 30 with 18+ in- common Magnolia Warbler made its ap- NORTHERN ROCKY dividuals (MBe, HG). The uncommon pearanceat Liard HotspringsMay 27 (RCan, California, Ring-billed and Franklin's gulls SC, LV). A cy Bay-breasted Warbler, rare in MOUNTAIN -INTERMOUNTAIN were reported in small numbers from Charlie the Fort St. John area, was "squeaked out" REGION L, Fort St. John area (CSi). Two Ring-billed of white spruceand balsampoplar at Beatton Gulls were also noted at Hay Camp Prairies, P. P., May 23 and was seenhere again May /Thomas H. Rogers Ft. Smith area, N.W.T., May 1 (SO). 28, very close to the place where this species Snowy Owls were reportedly fairly regular had been observed July 10, 1980 (CSi). A The extremely mild "nonwinter" carried near the Yukon/N.W.T. border along the Palm Warbler and Ovenbird were observed at over into March, although precipitation Dempster Hwy. (BS, fide RF). A rare obser- Liard HotspringsMay 27 (RCan, SC, LV). varied from very wet to very dry in the vation of one individual was made in Wood The latter specieswas also seen and heard in subregions.April varied from cold and wet to Buffalo N.P., Mar. 16 (SO). The first report several places near Fort St. John May 18+ normal temperatures and normal to low for the Region of a Saw-whet Owl was ob- (CSi) and was noted lessthan 10 km s. of the precipitation but May was cool and wet prac- tained this season as one was calling near Yukon border along the Alaska Hwy., in tically Region-wide. Bozeman, Montana

Volume 35, Number 5 843 Apr. 24-May 4 (BR, GS broken leg was at Ladd Marsh W.M.A., La et al.). Grande May 5 (JE). 1 A Great Blue Heron colony discoveredat the Ducks peaked at 15,000 in March at Co- COLUMBIA•..•• ; e. end of Moyie L., w. lumbia N.W.R., the late May breeding pair -- •'•RINOEIEiNIIIE | of Cranbrook, B.C., survey there indicating a 10%0increase over comprised 13 nests May 1980 (JC). At Turnbull N.W.R., duck pair ALBERTA J 5 (MVW). The colony at counts indicated 30-40% more pairs than WILLIAMSLR•[ •. J Otter L., near Arm- before the May 1980 ashfall. Duck produc- strong, B.C. comprised tion there last year was 50-60% below that 41 birds Mar. 8 (JG) but expected(JRR). The pair of Eur. Wigeons % &,o&,. '%. I the heronry at Wilmer, that wintered at Walla Walla, Wash., was last B.C., was unoccupied seen Apr. 5 (B.M.A.S). A male was at Arm- (LH). Potholes Res., strong, B.C., Mar. 31 (EL) and another was listed about 400 nesting on W. Medical L., Spokane Co., Wash., pairs of Great Bluesand Apr. 15 (JA). One of this speciesappeared on 800 pairs of Black- Carty Res., Mar. 26 (RJK) and a male was crowned Night Herons seen at Kootenai N.W.R., Apr. 9 & 19 ELIM• ß•W•SK. •OEBRB'ALENE •O•T• (RF). A Cattle Egret ap- (LDN). Four vagrant Ring-necked Ducks •AK•MA'.• e •LEWIST•N pearednear Hermiston, stoppedat Grays L., Apr. 23 (DT). A Greater •-•n WAkkA____• ß TNREE Ore., Apr. 23 (C&MC, Scaupappeared on L. Entiat, Entiat, Wash., m• '• ' PENOLE•ON(-• BOZEM• ' L]vlmT'" I NB) and four were in Apr. 8 (PC). Harlequin Ducks in the Libby, Mont., area were at least 3 times as numerous I / SALMON % the Rupert, Ida., area I t '•-• (WHS). A single bird as in 1980and more widespread(CW). A pair I'BEN•L.ULAK•j, PAYETT[ was at Calispell L., appeared on the Chewelah, Wash., sewage Pend Oreille Co., ponds Apr. 18 (JN). Three ad. males were Wash., March-May 10 sighted on upper McDonald Cr., Glacier (JN) and up to three in N.P., Mont., Apr. 30-May 4. One wore a red breeding plumage were band on the left leg and another, a yellow reportedan unusallylarge number of record- s. of Merrill, Ore., May 8-9 (SS). Nine Great band on the right ODe). The only White- early arrivals in May. Fortine, Montana, had Egrets were back at PotholesRes., Apr. 26 winged Scoters reported were two on the many early arrival datesfor March and April (SJ) and one was along the Columbia R., duck count, Hatch L., Colville, Wash. (first and the South Okanagan Valley of British near Umatilla, Ore., Apr. 23 (MC) and Apr. spring record in 5 years' counts--(SZ, Columbia also listed several early arrivals 25 (B.M.A.S.). A single bird upriver from W.D.G.); two males and a female on the amongthe earlier migrants.Elsewhere timing Walter's Ferry, Owyhee Co., Ida., May 6 was Colville sewage ponds May 25 (JN), and a apparently was near normal. Heavy May the first ever recorded there in spring and on- female on the Link R., Klamath Falls, Ore., precipitationappeared to make up for the ly the second ever (JSM) and one in the May 9 (SS). A pair of Hooded Mergansers severemoisture deficiency of the winter. Rupert area wasnoteworthy (WHS). One ap- was nesting in a Wood Duck nest box near peared at Pend Oreiile L., just s. of Sand- Cardwell, Mont., in late May for the first LOONS AND GREBES--An Arctic Loon point, Ida., May 11 (KH). Snowy Egrets in breeding record for that area (RLE). A 9 was photographed on Catty Res., at the the Pocatello area were down to only three; Red-breasted Merganser was carefully power plant at Boardman, Ore., May 5 Mexican pesticideuse was suspected(CHT). observed on the Columbia R., at Priest (RJK). A pair of Red-necked Grebes was Three White-faced Ibises fed in an irrigated Rapids Dam e. of Yakima Mar. 17 (EH) and nestingat Wilmer, B.C., May 28 (LH) and a pasture along Hwy. 28, 4 mi e. of Win- a female was in the Link R.- Ewauna, Ore. pair was on SpectacleL., Okanogan Co., chester, Wash., June 3-8 (RF). vicinity May 2-9 (SS). One was on Catty Wash., May 12 (JD). Seven of this species Res., May 5 (RJK). Several of the species were back on their Upper Klamath L., Ore., were on the Snake R., below Am. Falls Res., breedingarea by Apr. 4 (SS) and on the same WATERFOWL--The largest concentra- Apr 2 and three males were on Blackfoot date the birds had returned to Kootenai tion of Whistling Swansreported was 1000 at Res., Apr. 25, both in Idaho (DT). Alkali L., N.W.R., Bonners Ferry, Ida. (LDN). The Callspell L., in early April (fide DD). Grant Co., Wash., had four males and two speciesappeared to be 2-3 timesas numerous Trumpeter Swans at Turnbull N.W.R., females Apr. 19 (JA). as in 1980 in Lincoln County., Mont. (CW). Cheney, Wash., were down to four birds One at Salmon, Ida., May 7 was the second (JRR). Ennis L., near Ennis, Mont., listed ever there for Roberts. Lake Windermere, perhaps 50 in a flock of about 500 swans VULTURES AND HAWKS--A Turkey B.C., had at least i 100 W. Grebes May I i (PDS). Red Rock Lakes N.W.R., Lima, Vulture n. of Eureka, Mont., Apr. 12 and (LH) and MosesL., Wash., had 57 nestsof Mont., censused247 Trumpeters in Centen- again a week later was one of very few ever the birds May 14 (JT). nial Valley May 5 for a 25% decreasefrom reported for Lincoln County (CW). Five ac- last year but nestingthere looked good with tive Goshawk nests were found in Lincoln PELICANS THROUGH IBISES--White 42 active nests (RRS). Many Canada Geese County (CW). Three sightingsof Swainson's Pelicans numbered 100 on Am. Falls Res., on were nesting on boxes set up for them at Hawk were in the Yakima area (Y.A.S.), one the Snake R., in Idaho Apr. 23 (CHT) and Wilmer Wildlife Area, Wilmer, B.C. (LH). near Telford, Wash. (W.D.G.) and two in four were at Deer Flat N.W.R., Nampa, Ida., Canadas peaked at 7000 at Columbia s.w. Idaho (G.E.A.S.). Four nesting pairs May 23 (EB). Up to 35 were along the Port- N.W.R., Othello, Wash.; 250 at Turnbull; were in the Walla Waila vicinity (B.M.A.S.) neuf R., below Pocatello, Ida., in May (DT). 415 at Kootenai N.W.R., and 150 at Deer and two active nests were located in the About 30 were present on Frenchman Hills Flat N.W.R. A field near Carry Res., had Boardman area (RJK). Ferruginous Hawks Wastewayw. of PotholesRes., s.w. of Moses four White-fronted Geese Apr. 28 (RJK). had two nestsin the Boardman vicinity (RJK) L., May 8 (RF). A Brown Pelican flying Some 15,000 Snow Geesewere migrating over and 18 nesting pairs were reported in along the Boise R., Mar. 19 furnished the Council Valley, Council, Ida., Mar. 28 Franklin County, Wash. (W.D.G.). Sixteen third sighting for the area from near Eagle, (G.E.A.S.). A Snow Goosestopped at Carty active Golden Eagle nest siteswere found in Ida., to Lucky Peak Res. CLK). Potholes Res., Mar. 26 (RJK). Kootenal N.W.R.. had Okanogan County, Wash. (W.D.G.). A few Res., listed ten nesting pairs of Double- an unusual visit by two Snow Geesein April. Bald Eagles, including three pairs at nests, crested Cormorants May 2 (RF). Mann's L., They were joined for a week in late April by a were noted in the Brisco-Radium Hot near Lewiston, Ida., listed a single bird of Ross' Goose (LDN). One sub-ad. Snow Springs-Wilmer,B.C., area (LH). Four pairs this species May 31 (R & GB) and the Goose and two Ross' were near Reardan, of Ospreys were also nesting in that area Kootenai R., above Libby, Mont., harbored Wash., Apr. 26 (WH & BW) and another (LH). A rare sightingof an Ospreywas made a pair May 21-28 (CW). Six were at the Ross' joined them Apr. 29; one Ross' was at Columbia N.W.R., Apr. 6 (JR) and two mouth of Ladd Cr., near La Grande, Ore., still there May 3 (JA). One Ross' with a appearednear Crow Butte S.P., w. of Pater-

844 American Birds, September 1981 son, Wash, Apr 27 (REW) The Okanogan (JA, JAd) Three Solitary Sandpipers at the May 1 and again May 7 & 9 just outside R , below Oroville, Wash., had three nesting Joseph,Ore., sewageponds were noteworthy Mountain Lakes Wilderness, 19 mi w of pmrs (RF) and a pair was nestbuildingon the (FC). A Pectoral Sandpiper at a marsh 7 mi s. Klamath Falls, for the first county record and Salmon R., near Salmon, Ida., for apparent- and 5 mi e. of George, Wash., May 9 was the apparently the southernmost for the Pacific ly a new breeding locality (HBR). Only one first in springfor that area (PA). The Yakima states(EF, SS). One was calling on Mt. Har- PeregrineFalcon was reported. R. mouth had up to 70 Dunlin with the peak ris near Elgin, Ore., Apr. 4 (RR) and a fledg- Apr. 5 (REW); one, with a Sanderling, at the ling was picked up near Sherman Pass, Ferry GALLINACEOUS BIRDS--Sharp-tailed Joseph sewage ponds, was unusual (FC). A Co., Wash. (fide JN). In Montana one was Grouse numbers in Lincoln County, Wash., flock of 30 Short-billed Dowitchers stopped heard at Glacier N.P. headquarters Apr 29 were comparable to last year's, despite in a flooded field s. of Merrill, Ore., May 3 (JD) and seven pair locations in Lincoln volcano and heavy rain problems (JN). (SS). Two Semipalmated Sandpipers at For- County were confirmed (CW). A Great Gray About 100 were near Twin Springs C.G., tine, Mont., May 6 were Weydemeyer's first Owl appeared on several dates in March- Oneida Co., Ida., Apr. 16 (DT). In the since 1928 and provided only his second April near Pinantan, n.e. of Kamloops, B C Eureka, Mont., area the species' numbers record ever there. Nine at Indian Creek Res., (GB). A lone bird was at the nestingarea on were about double those of 1980 (CW). A s.e. of BoiseMay 3 apparently furnished the Spring Cr., n.w. of La Grande; the nesting Sage Grouse lek, one of many in the secondrecord for s. Idaho (J & NH). Fifty platform there has beencontinually vandaliz- Shoshone, Ida., area, had 20 birds Apr. 4 Am. Avocets at the Yakima R. mouth Apr. ed this springwhile U.S.F. & W.S. personnel (JR). The lek at Virtue Flat e. of Baker, Ore., 19 were Woodley's highestnumber ever there attempt to restore it (JE). Saw-whet Owls ap- had a peak population of about 75 Apr. 20 and one s. of Chewelah, Wash., May 23 was peared more common than previously (JE) and five were seen on Crescent Valley the first for that latilong (JN). A remarkable thought in Lincoln County, Mont., where Ranch s. of Wilbur, Wash. (JHi). At Rupert, 33 Black-necked Stilts appeared n. of Win- firewood cutters were falling dead trees and SageGrouse numbers were believed to be one chester wasteway w. of Moses L., May 10 finding helpless young (CW). Three nesting third of last year's (WHS). A pair of Scaled (JT) and four were s. of Frenchman Hills pairs occupied nest boxes put out for Am Qu•ailwas sightedMar. 14 just n. of the wasteways.w. of PotholesRes., May 2 (RF). Kestrels in Cold Springs Canyon, n.c. Ore, Juhiper Forest n.e. of Pasco, Wash., Mar. 14 Sevenwere sightedat the Potholes Res., Apr. (PD, LC, SM). At Boise-CascadeC.G., on (WH & REW) and a single bird was found 12 (Y.A.S.). Two were near Hermiston, Ore., Wenas Cr., s.w. of Ellensburg, three young there May 25 (REW & CWo). Scattered Apr. 23 for Corder's first n.e. Oregon record; perched near a nest hole May 24 (Y.A.S) and reports of 1-30 Turkeys came from Lincoln four were near Boardman Apr. 15 (RJK), and two adults were being scolded by smaller County, Mont. (CW) and up to 23 were seen nine were at Ladd Cr. mouth, La Grande birds in Davenport, Wash. cemetery May 9 in the Prairie, Ida., area (PCo). May 26-28 for n.e. Oregon's second record (JA). The specieswas believed breeding in the (JE). Two were seen Apr. 30 at Red Rock Chewelah area (JN). CRANES THROUGH COOTS--Three o' Lakes N.W.R., for a rare sighting (RRS). Whooping Cranes were back at Grays Lake Priest Rapids Dam on the Columbia R., POOR-WILLS THROUGH HUMMING- N W.R., s.e. Ida., by Apr. 23. Plans were for had an imm. Glaucous-winged Gull Mar. 17 BIRDS--A Poor-will was calling at Klnny a female to be introduced from the captive (EH). A Herring Gull at the Josephsewage Cr., Bannock Co., Ida., Apr. 30 (DT) and flock at Patuxent ResearchRef., Md., (DT). ponds May 20 was n.e. Oregon's first (FC) two were near Brooks Memorial S.P., Satus A banded imm. Whooper, presumably from and a Franklin's there May 12 & 17 provided Pass, Klickitat Co., Wash., May 20 (Y.A S ) Grays L., dropped in with Sandhill Cranes at the county's second and third sightings(B J, for the only reports. The third sightingof the Red Rock Lakes N.W.R., in mid-April and FC). Four Bonaparte's Gulls, unusual in Black Swift for n.e. Oregon was at Imnaha remained into May (RRS). A rare occurrence spring in Idaho, were on Stone Res., near May 15 (JAp) and a probablesighting of one was of 200 Sandhills feeding on Coumbia Holbrook (CHT) and three were at Fortine over Bozeman would be only the secondfor N W.R., for about 5 weeks (JC). Pleasant May 6 for the second spring record there that latilong (JS & RW). White-throated Valley between Libby and Kalispell, Mont., (WW). Unusual were two Caspian Terns at Swifts appearedagain around the cliffs along had two pairs of ad. Sandhills plus a single Enterprise, Ore., and three at Joseph's the Spokane R., just below Spokane; three bird. One pair was feedingan imm. bird. Last sewage ponds both Apr. 26 (FC). Rare were sighted May 23 (JA). Ten were seen in year only three adults were seen and their sightings were of four Black Terns at La Snake R. Birds of Prey Natural Area s.w of young were killed by vandals (CW). Ladd Grande May 5 (JE, GS) and three at Joseph Nampa Apr. 25 (NH) and several appeared Marsh W.M.A., the only e. Oregon locality May 14 (FC). near Twin Falls, Ida., May 16 (JR). Up to with Sandhills, saw about five of the birds ar- four Black-chinned Hummingbirds were rive Mar. 3 (JE.). Malheur N.W.R., Burns, PIGEONS AND OWLS--Sightings of reported in the Boise-Nampa area in May Ore., had a Common Gallinule May 23 (AC). Band-tailed Pigeons increased. One was 3.5 (LM, J & NH, BS). A very rare sighting of American Coot numberspeaked at 11,000 at km n. of Bruneau Sand Dunes S.P., Owyhee the Broad-tailed Hummingbird was of a male Turnbull N.W.R., Apr. 10. Co., Ida., Apr. 28 (JSM). In Oregonfour ap- at a La Grande feeder May 19-20 & 30 (J & pearedin a city park at La GrandeMay 2 (JE) WB et al.). SHOREBIRDS--A remarkable occurrence and the species was seen near Hermiston of an American Oystercatcher, described in Mar. 25 (CC). Washington Hardy Canyon WOODPECKERS AND FLYCAT- detail, was 3 min. of Fruitland, Ida., Apr. 18 along Wenas Cr., s.w. of Ellensburg had one CHERS-Lewis' Woodpecker numbers look- (D & JS). A flooded field s. of Merrill, Ore., Apr. 28 (PH & MR) and one was in Cheney ed encouraging,with possibleincreases in the hosted a flock of 100 Black-bellied Plovers Apr. 18 (FBH). Vernon, B.C., had one May Rupert, Ida. area (WHS) and apparently May 3 (SS). A pair at the Yakima R. mouth 16 (MCo). steady numbers in e. Washington, n c Apr. 29 providedBob Woodley's second-ever A Barn Owl nesting burrow in the Oregon and n.w. Montana. One at Fortme spring record and one at Rupert, Ida., was Okanogan R. bank at the river's mouth, n.c. May 10 was the first sighted in about 10 Shlllington's first-ever. On the Black Canyon Washington, with five young May 27 and a years; they formerly were common breeders nestinggrounds in the Snake R. valley n.w. nestingburrow in a bank above Chief Joseph there (WW). Two singingo' Least Flycatchers of Caldwell, Ida., only 69 Long-billed Dam to the s.e., Apr. 9 provided the first were carefully observed and their songs Curlews were counted., vs. 350 three years conclusive evidence of breeding in that area recordedMay 10-31 at Sun Mt. Lodge 8 ml s ago. Agriculture has made some encroach- (VM, PF). The only Flammulated Owl of Winthrop, Wash. (EH) and one was found ment; the Bureau of Land Management has reported was of one heard May 12 at at Okanagan Falls, B.C., May 22 (SRC) sponsored a study during the last three Freezeout Saddle s.e. of Imnaha, Ore., sec. Three o' Gray Flycatcherswere heard May 23 seasons(G.E.A.S.). The specieswas believed 19-20, T2s R49E Wallowa Co., Ore., (JAp). on the Colochkum Pass road n.e. of to be stable in the N. Okanagan Valley from A pair of Great Horned Owls was found Ellensburg for a new locality for the species Vernon to Grindrod, B.C.; 46 adults and two Mar. 9 nestingin a hole in a clay bank along (EH). chicks were counted May 18 (N.O.N.C.). the Columbia R., near Athamer, B.C. (LH). Two Whimbrels were sighted s. of Merrill, Burrowing Owls in the Boise-Nampa area JAYS THROUGH THRUSHES--A Blue Ore., May 9 (SS). No more than two Upland were reported suffering from offroad vehicles Jay lingered at a feeder near Chewelah, Sandpipers were sighted on the nesting and a last year's nestingarea in now a feed lot Wash., until early March (JN) and one was grounds in the Spokane Valley e. of Spokan (G.E.A.S.). A Barred Owl was found about heard and seen in Omak, Wash., Mar. 11 &

Volume 35, Number 5 845 13 (SJo). One was sightednear Fortine May 4 the mouth of the Walla Walla R., near Golden-crowned Sparrows migrated through (WW) and one stayed at Half Round Bay 10 Wallula, Wash., (B.M.A.S.). e. Washington, with sightingsin the Yakima min. of Harrison, Ida., for a month in late Very unusual was a cyBobolink near Trail, area, at Boise-Cascade C.G., Wapato, March-early April (GN). Plain Titmice were B.C., May 17 (ME). In Montana two males Davenport, and Richland. They were also common in the Rupert area for the only were on territory, one in Tobacco Plains n. of seen at Hermiston, Ore. report (WHS). a pair of Bushtits was nest- Eureka and one near the Clark Fork R., near building May 16 along Poison Cr., 42 km s. the Idaho-Montana border (CW). One near of Grandview, Ida. (JSM). On the Birds of Twin Falls, Ida., was apparently the first for CONTRIBUTORS CITED--James Acton Prey Study Area along the Snake R., s.e. of the latilong (JR). (JA), Jack Adkins (JAd), Jim Applegate Swan Falls Dam, Owyhee Co., Ida., a Mock- (JAp), Peter Arcese, Eugene Barney, Wes ingbird was sightedfor the third record there FINCHES AND SPARROWS--A cy Bell, Jerry & Winhie Bingner, Blue Mt. (JSM). Many sightings were made of both Rose-breastedGrosbeak near Nakusp, B.C., Audubon Society (B.M.A.S.), Nancy Buck, Mountain and W. bluebirds in the Yakima May 16 was highly unusual (GD). One was Geoff Budman, Robert & Georgene Bond, area, particularly in the foothills to the w. sighted in Bozeman May 16-17 ( ETH, SC, Lois Campbell, S.R. Cannings, Phil Cheney Nest boxes in the Wenas Cr. area were major JS, PDS, RW) and a male was photographed (PC), Mary Collins (MCo), Frank Conley, attractions. Mountain Bluebirds appeared to in Boise May 25 (BK & JSM). A Blue Alan Contreras, Priscilla Cook (PC.), Craig be doing well in the Kimberley, B.C. area Grosbeak was reported near Buhl, Ida., in & Marion Coder (MC), Sharon Cotterell, (MVW). However, W. Bluebirds were com- May (fide JR). Two Indigo Buntings, one John Coykendall, Dennis Dahlke, John pletely missing in Lincoln County, Mont., with some white in its breast, were in flocks Danielson (JD), Priscilla Dauble, Gary and Mountain Bluebird sightings there were of Lazulis the third week of May at Pocatello Davidson, Joe Decker (JDe), Maurice down 75% from last year (CW). (J J, CHT) and one visiteda Rupert feeder for Ellison, R.L. Eng, Joe Evanich, Robert M. & 3 days (WHS). A Purple Finch was noted in Patricia Evans, Paul Fielder, Eric Foresmen, GNATCATCHERS THROUGH BLACK- Helena where it is very rare (PM) and near Run Friesz, Leo Goebel, Golden Eagle BIRDS--A Blue-gray Gnatcatcher appeared Dixie, Wash. (PD, SM). One or two appeared Audubon Society (G.E.A.S), James Grant, at Massacre Rocks S.P., Power Co., Ida., at 3 locations in the foothills w. of Yakima Pauline Hager, Warren Hall, Larry Halver- May 3 & 21 (DT) and a pair was seen near (Y.A.S.). House Fincheswere reported as un- son, Keith Hawn, Eve T. Hays, Jim & Naomi Twin Falls May 17 (JR). A cy Black-and- common at Helena (GH) and were seen May Heckathorn, Jerry Hickman (JHi), George white Warbler near Fortine May 11-12 was 2 near Fortine (WW). Holton, Eugene Hunn, Frances B. Huston, the first ever for that part of Montana (WW). A Green-tailed Towbee in La Grande May Bob Jackson,Steve Jackson(SJa), Joe Jepp- A 9 Black-and-white and one or two Ten- 3-4 was the first in more than 10 years (JE, son, Stuart Johnston (SJo), Lydia Kading, nessee Warblers appeared at Malheur GS). One was observed s.w. of Oreana, Ida., Ronald J. Klein, Bob Kuntz, AI & Hilda Lar- N.W.R., May 22 (AC) and a Tennessee was May 23 (A & HL). A field near Libby, Mont., son, Edith Levey, Patricia McKinny, Jeffrey near Vernon, B.C., May 11 (MCo). Single hosted an ad. cy Lark Bunting in mid-May S. Marks, Vern Marr, Levi Mohler, Shirley Virginia's Warblers were sighted at Kinny (CW). A singing Baird's Sparrow on the Muse, Larry D. Napier, Gloria Neff, Jack Cr., Bannock Co., Ida., Apr. 30 & May 17 Tobacco Plains n. of Eureka May 10 was the Nisbet, North Okanagan Naturalists' Club (DT) and at least a dozen were observedat first ever for the latilong (WW). An ad. (N.O.N.C.), Bob Ratcliff, James R. Rees, Silent City of Rocks, Cassia Co., Ida., May Black-throated Sparrow at Wallowa L., Hadley B. Roberts, Run Rohweder, Marian 29-30 (JSM). A Black-throatedBlue Warbler JosephMay 9 and 12-13 was the first ever for Rossman, Jeff Ruprecht, Georgia Sanderson, showed up at Malheur N.W.R., May 19 n.e. Oregon (B J, LG et al.) and a sagebrush Belle Shaw, W. H. Shillington, Richard R. (NB). An ad. 9 Black-throated Green area near Ephrata, Wash., had a singingmale Sjostrom, P. D. Skaar, Jim Sparks, (JSp), Warbler at Bozeman May 17 was the first for May 27 for apparently the third state sighting Dan & Jim Stevens(D & JS), SteveSummers, mountainous Montana (PDS, RW, JS) and (RM & PE). Mink Creek R., s. of Pocatello Jim Tabor, Dan Taylor, C. H. Trust, an ad. cy Blackburnian Warbler s. of had two Gray-headed Juncos May 7 (DT). WashingtonDepartment of Game (W.D.G.), Bozeman was the second for Montana's Clay-colored Sparrows arrived at Vernon John W. Weber, Run Weeks, Winton mountains and the state's sixth (JS, PDS, May 16 (JG) and a singing male was closely Weydemyer, Bart Whelton, Mildred V. RW, ETH, SC, WB). Ovenbirds were found observed in La Grande May 26 in the com- White, Carl Wolf (CWo), Robert E. in summer habitat at Bozeman May 31 (PDS) pany of many Brewer's Sparrows, which nor- Woodley, Yakima Audubon Society and one was sightedalong the Bruneau R., 2 mally are only vagrants there (JE). An imm. (Y.A.S.), Steve Zender, Abbreviations: km n.w. of Bruneau May 28 (JSM). Common Harris' Sparrow at Walla Walla May 10 (SM) C.G., campground.--THOMAS H. Yellowthroats were reported only from the and an adult at Pullman, Wash., May 19 (JW ROGERS, E. 10820 Maxwell Ave., Spokane, Nampa area (G.E.A.S.), Rupert (WHS), and W) were the only ones reported. A few WA 99206.

MOUNTAIN WEST REGION March and April pro- /Hugh E. Kingery duced hot temperatures and little moisture; then May cooled off and pro- This year adumbrated a normal spring: duced lots of moisture. below averagenumbers and variety. The sea- In Denver, even though son "came in like a lion and went out like an- May was the 66th con- other" (BR). Yet, by May 31 the Region re- secutive month with ported one new state bird and three new state above average tempera- breeding birds (two of which failed to fledge tures, it was also the young). The Boreal Owl population in the wettest May since 1973 northern Colorado Rockies finally yielded (3.76") and the first confirmation of nesting, the second in the month since 1972 in coterminous 48 states. On the northeastern which the sun shone less Colorado plains, a pair of Vermilion Fly- than 50% of daytime catchers nested, and the Common Grackle hours (actually 47%). If continues to spread west, abetting a two- weather affects the char- pronged assaulton the Region by two species acter of bird migration of grackle. in our Region, it re- , --' I '

846 AmericanBirds, September1981 suited in earlier migrant arrival dates, lessva- 1 88, see also Auk 96 573 and Ltvtng Btrd Broad-winged Hawk found injured on the U riety, and lower numbers. 4.59). Ranges of the 2 forms are unknown. of Wyoming campus May 31 was treated and Speciescounts in the four statesreflect this Pelican L. near Randlett, Utah, hosted the released;it gave the Laramie latilong its first analysis: the Region had its second lowest first reportedcolony of nestingDouble-crest- record (DH, ph.). Last Rough-leggedsof the total in 7 years. We reported 364 species:313 ed Cormorants in n.e. Utah, with 10 nests seasonwere moving N at Last Chance, Colo, from Colorado, 264 from Utah, 260 from May 2 and 18 on June 27 (R&ES). A Little and Colorado Springs May 10 and Ft. Mor- Wyoming, and 257 from Nevada. The four Blue Heron at Bondurant in May provided gan, Colo., May 12 (D.A.S., RB, JCR). Col- states had 175 speciesin common. Regional Wyoming its second sight record (TA, fide orado reported two nesting pairs of Bald variety seems to depend on Colorado: al- •'BO). Observationsof Green Herons drop- Eagles. Although Osprey reports declined, though Wyoming had its highest tally in 7 ped (only eight from the Region) while those the birds seem to maintain fair numbers, the years and Utah and Nevada had their second of Cattle Egrets continued to increase. Utah Denver Birdathon counted six Apr. 25-26, highest counts, Colorado, like the Region, reported 45, ranging from St. George to Fish and they appeared throughout Colorado, had its second lowest. Springs to Vernal. Colorado mentioned 16, Wyoming, and Utah. all in the Front Range except one at Monte RARE BIRDS--The raison d'etre of Vista N.W.R., in April (JK). Nevada report- GROUSE, CRANES--Impressive num- American Birds relies on field observations-- ed only seven migrants, at Las Vegas. The bers of Sage Grouse performed May 11 at 2 and the valuable information which amateur Great Egret May 7 at Jackson furnished Wy- Laramie leks--560 birds, half of them hens birdwatcherscan provide. Our birding frater- oming's fifth record, all in the last 3 years (DM). The San Luis Valley had 13 Whooping mty gets excited about rare birds--and it's (BR•:). Regional reports of White-faced Ibis- Cranes Mar. 13; in all, 18 stopped there dur- easier for Regional Editors to write about es increased by 50ø70 this year; they are ing the migration, but one died after striking them than to discern trends and patterns. nesting at Bear R., Ruby L., and San Luis a power line (JK). The valley also had !7,000 The Regional Editor's hardest chore is Valley, Colo. Wyoming reported unusual Sandhills the same day by helicopter count handling reports of rarities. Even though we flocks suchas 87 at Big Piney May 2 and 25 at (JK). To the n., numbers were largely typical, ask for written descriptions,many recordsof Laramie Apr. 18 (JRo, DM). although 306 Apr. 4 at Delta causedcomment interest come in with no details, some with (M J). Ruby L. reported 30-50 pairs nesting passabledetails, but most with quite good de- WATERFOWL--In Utah ducks maintain- with the first young out by mid-May. A Corn scriptions. These descriptionsare like legal ed numbers comparable to last year; the peak Gallinule somehow landed at Loveland, briefs: they must convince a detached obser- of migration saw 336,185 ducks in the state's Colo., Apr. 30 (DL). ver. refuges Mar. 1-15, 40ø7oof them Pintails. (The irony of this problem is that in the Whistling Swanspeaked at 25,021 during the SHOREBIRDS--High water and few long run I think one rare bird has far lesssig- sameperiod. A few appearedin s. Wyoming shorebirds characterized the spring. Denver mficance than a collection of observations of where they are uncommon--three at Hutton reported a spring total of 21 speciesand, in a speciesor a group of species. . . if only we Lake N.W.R., Mar. 29-Apr. 4 and four at gross numbers, 1725 individuals--1186 sum- had data to quantify that sort of material, on Laramie Apr. 3 (DM, MSt). A Trumpeter mer residents (Killdeer, avocet, Wilson's a timely-enough basis for AB.) was at Price, Utah, Mar. 7 (pJB). Ross' Geese Phalarope) and 539 migrants (KK). Spring To addressthis, I have adopted a new nota- appeared at 3 widely-spacedsites: nine at Counts, held after the peak of the shorebird tion this season for records received either Mendon, Utah, Mar. 1-15 (pSV), three Apr. 1 passage, had more species and more birds without, or without persuasive, descriptions at Washington, Utah, with four Snows(MBr, than last year. The Longmont/Lyons/Ber- or photographs. The symbol ":•" next to the BPa, MWa), and six at Delta, Colo., Mar. thoud/Loveland area (hereafter, L.L.B L ) observer'sinitials will signify that the report 10-12 (pMJ). Blue-winged Teal have become had the most with 18 speciesand 656 birds submitted did not include a description re- regular, though sparse,migrants in Utah; this Utah reported almost 100 Snowy Plovers, ceived by my deadline. year we had reports of over 50. A Eur. Wi- most significant were a probable migrant geon visited Monte Vista N.W.R., Colo., near Cedar City Mar. 31 and four of uncer- GREBES TO IBISES--A Red-necked Apr. 5 (•'SW). The two Wood Ducks at Du- tain statusnear Randlett May 2 (SH, R&ES) Grebe among 92 Westerns at Granby, Colo., bois May 18 gave that latilong its first record The three near Casper, Wyo., May 26 suggest May 31 gave Colorado its first W. Slope re- (pTF). The two cy Barrow's Goldeneyesat an interesting potential (•JH). Laramie ob- cord in some years (?D J). The Denver area Delta Mar. 5 filled a gap in another latilong servers found Mountain Plovers in 3 widely recorded numbers of Horned Grebes Mar. (pMJ). The White-winged Scorer found dur- separatedareas, a good sign for a speciesfac- 1-May 3 with peak 150 Apr. 5. In contrast, ing the winter at Antelope I., Great Salt L., ing habitat shrinkage (DM). Each state re- Utah had its usual big concentrations of stayed through Mar. 6 (JB) and one passed ported a group of 1-3 Whimbrels (rare transi- Eareds: 200 at Minersville and 2000 on Great through Las Vegas May 4 (VM). ents), at Las Vegas, Randlett, Sheridan, and Salt L., Apr. 4 (SH, MW), building up to a Denver (M&JC, MW, HD, KH). Spring peak of 100,000 at Great Salt L., May 31 HAWKS, EAGLES--Utah observerscon- Counts found fewer Spotted Sandpipers(111 (JB). Sheridan, Wyo., likewise reported tinued to conduct informative hawk studies. cf. 577 last year); whether they moved many Eareds--324 May 10 (HD). For the A "hawk reconaissance"by U.F.O. along a through late or early is uncertain. Flocks of first time, observers reported 'light-phase' 90-mi e.-w. transect through Salt Lake City 11 Pectoral Sandpipersand 100 Dunlins were W. Grebes, from Bear R., Denver, and Pueb- involved 21 volunteers, 123.5 party-hours, at Kaysville Apr. 11, rare Utah records(LM, lo, Colo. (U.F.O., HK, RB). The A.O.U. and 4 weekends. It concluded preliminarily U.F.O.). Dun!ins also appeared at Randlett may recognize the two phases as separate that a "discernible N migration of hawks [oc- May 2 (R&ES) and at Logan, Utah (no date) species;we encourageour observersto try to curs] through this part of Utah, by w. hawk- Bear R. had 150 Marbled Godwits Apr 12 separate them, since both occur in the watch standards significant: 782 birds ob- (LM, U.F.O.). Among a fallout of several Mountain West. According to Kaufman, served. This migration occurs on a broad thousand shorebirds near Randlett May 2, "The face-pattern is the most diagnostic front along the entire transect." Opportunis- seven Hudsonian Godwits stood out, reduced point of difference: in dark-phase birds the tic, the raptors forage in the valleys but "they to two by May 5 (pR&ES), Utah's second black of the crown extends down to below the concentrate and move along spur ridges. sight record. Near Loveland, 1000 Wilson's eye and lores, while the light birds have white When wind conditions are right the birds may Phalaropes spun their whirlpools May 9 extending up onto the lores and to above the overtly the area entirely; on days with E to S (B&VG)--the highest regional count this eye. This difference is accentuatedby the bill winds birds were seen largely at high spring. As observerscheck more carefully, re- color, dull greenish yellow in the dark birds altitudes, 'slotting' N." The 782 hawks were ports of N. Phalaropes have increased. This and rather bright yellow-orange in the light half Buteos(172 Red-taileds)with 68 Accip- spring, they included Zion N.P.'s second, six ones. Both forms are deep black on the crown iters, 108 Golden Eagles, 178 falcons, and 64 May 7 (JG); 400-500 at Duchesne, Utah May and on the stripe down the nape, but light Marsh Hawks, (JB). Another hawk study in 9 (MW); and twice last year's count during birds have narrower nape stripes (thus ap- the Cedar City area revealed few migrantsin the spring (120) at L.L.B.L. (JC). pearing more extensivelywhite on the sidesof the hills but more in the valleys (SH). the neck) and tend to be paler (i.e., grayer, The Region had an upsurge in hawks re- GULLS, TERNS--A juvenile Parasitic lessblackish) on the back and more extensive- ported shot; these probably only skim the Jaeger picked up and released in Spring Val- ly white on the flanks." (Continental Birdlife surface of this still prevalent problem. A ley, White Pine Co., Nev., in September,

Volume 35, Number 5 847 box at Cameron Pass near Red Feather L. Vegas Mar. 28 (VM) and in an average-sized The nest failed, apparently a frequent prob- flock in an unusual habitat--an arid grass- lem with this species.Ever sincea juvenal col- land near a cattle watering trough at Delle, lected in 1963 piqued their interest, Colorad- Utah, Apr. 26 (JB). The third Sprague'sPipit ans have searched for additional proof of for Dubois occurred Apr. 23 C[MB). A few nesting.This year sawa massiveeffort led by Bohemian Waxwings lingered as late as May Palmer and Ryder to confirm nestingin this 23. A Lakewood yard attracted Colorado's species. sixth White-eyed Vireo Apr. 26 C[MEI). Eight Bell's Vireos sang their wheezy songsMay 19 HUMMINGBIRDS, WOODPECKERS-- at Crook, Colo., their most n.e. nesting site. By the last week in May one Zion area feeder The wildlife area in which they nest faces complex had 240 hummingbird patrons. threats from 'habitat improvement' (brush- Broad-tailedsresponded to the warm weather clearing) and sale to a local rancher for graz- by arriving in mid-April in Colorado foothills ing (JR). Nevada's first Philadelphia Vireo areas like Eagle, Evergreen, Eldora, and came to the bird bath in a Las Vegas yard Two Casptan Terns, Chatfield S.P., Colo., Lyons. Flickers and Hairy and Downy wood- May 6 C[CL). May 13, 1981. Photo/Don Johnson. peckers seem to maintain steady numbers, but as Speers put it, only a fraction of the WARBLERS--Mowbray enjoyed a fallout number "B.S.--before Starlings." Western- of warblers at Las Vegas on May I l, a rare most Red-headed Woodpeckerswere at State experiencein the West, "just after sunriseon Bridge and Radium, Colo., May 26 & 28 a clear day with winds of 15-25 m.p.h. Com- 1980, received a definitive identification this CID J). Utah produced 4 reports of ten Lewis' ing out of the E was wave after wave of warb- spring from photographs (GW, fide MCo). Woodpeckers. lers amounting to severalhundred in a matter Utahns reported the only spring Glaucous of minutes, all coming into the trees over the Gulls: one at Farmington Bay Mar. 15, the FLYCATCHERS TO WRENS--Arrival ponds. Almost immediately after coming in same one mentioned in the winter, and one at dates for E. and W. kingbirds were consist- the birds began to bathe along the small Amalga May 2 (JB, tAG). Mew Gulls were ently about a week early. Cheyenne recorded stream that runs between the ponds. The found at L. Mead Mar. 8 (VM) and Pyramid two E. Phoebes May 25 & 30-31 (FK•), the great majority were Wilson's (150), Yellow L., Nev., Mar. 26 (tWT), the latter the first fifth and sixth records from Wyoming report- (30-50), and MacGillivrays (15)" plus Ten- record for n. Nevada. C.F.O. is reviewing re- ed in 10 years. A Black Phoebe appeared on nessee, Orange-crowned, Yellow-rumped, ports of another at Longmont Apr. 28 the Durango Spring Count May 16 (5). The Black-throated Gray, Townsend's, Hermit, (tTFW, tMHo, tMM). Bonaparte's Gulls Vermilion Flycatcher extended its breeding yellowthroat, and chat. Most locations re- scattered across the Region. New locations range N by 500 miles when a pair built a nest, ported fewer warblers, although the 10 included Zion's first, four Apr. 18 (JG) and laid eggs, and hatched young n. of Akron, speciesfound Apr. 25-May 24 was a credita- two there May 24 (MMS), 14 at Ft. Duch- Colo. Then a severe hailstorm struck, killing ble showing at Laramie (DM). Spring esne, Utah May 2 (R&ES), two at Delta Apr. the female and the young. The male remained Counts, all in Colorado, had fewer species, 30 and one there May 19 (M J), and one at in the vicinity, at least temporarily (FC, •[HD; and half as many individuals (100/count cf. Lindon, Colo., Apr. 17 (F&JJ). Two Caspian * to D.M.N.H.). Denver saw the first re- 219/count last year). Denver's Birdathon tal- Terns near Denver May 13-14 provided Colo- gional migrant swallows, Trees Mar. 22; lied only 44 of 3 speciesApr. 25-26 and the rado its eighth report, and the first docu- Violet-greens arrived first in Carson City, Denver Springcount had a paltry 133 birds of mented by color photographs (•'DJ). Nev., and Zion Mar. 27. The L.L.B.L. 10 species.Among the common species,Or- counted 5185 Cliff Swallows on the Spring ange-crowneds seemed particularly scarce. OWLS--The Utah D.W.R. program of Count May 16. Cactus Wrens were found Spring Counts found one/count cf. I l/count placing nest boxes in unused silos produced May I at Rhyolite, Nev. (LB), and Beaver last year. The gross total reported in the Re- 140 young in the Provo area (DS). A Flam- Dam Wash, Washington Co., Utah, May gion was only 63. mulated Owl was found dead in Colorado 16-17 (U.F.O.). An out-of-range Bewick's The season still brought reports of some Springs May 14 (LHa). Great Horned Owls Wren visited Dubois, Wyo., May 13, the rarities: three Black-and-whites May 12 at continue as the most successfullarge bird of eighth observationin 14 years (MB). Laramie (DM) and one at Beaver Dam Wash prey; a state park 10 mi from downtown Den- (CD, SH, •[ML, •[LM); Wyoming's second ver had eight active nests(F&JJ). Late spring MOCKINGBIRDS TO VIREOS--A Worm-eating Warbler at Casper May 11 records of Pygmy Owls from Sedalia, Gold- Mockingbird wintering at Zion stayed until (•'JH), Nevada's third May 9 at Boulder City en, Lyons, and Grand Jct., Colo., and from Apr. 11, when the property owner pruned his C[PLo), plus one each at Boulder and Heber City and Zion, Utah, suggestedpossi- pyracantha (JG). Gray Catbirds visited Ely, Aurora, Colo. (JHo, MOS); Golden-winged ble nesting.Years of field work finally prov- Nev., May 17 (MCo*) and Salt Lake City at Lyons May 16 (•'MF); Blue-winged at ed that Boreal Owls nest in Colorado: a fe- May 22 ($SC). A Brown Thrasher was at Boulder May 26 (OW•); N. Parulas at Story, male was recorded sitting on eggs in a nest Ogden, Utah, Jan. 7 & Mar. 28 (MK). The Wyo., May 4 (MC, ?HD), Lida, Nev., May Bendire's Thrasher at Las Vegas May 11 was 25-27 C[GM, •[JL), and three in Colorado in- the first in 6 years (VM), and one appeared in cluding a pair acting territorial at Golden Cedar City Apr. 22 (SH). A Gray-cheeked May 29 (PH); Cape May at Ft. Morgan May Thrush was at Ft. Morgan May 10 (•'JW); 10 C[JW); Black-throated Blue at Cheyenne three others reported lacked good descrip- May 30 (•'PW); three Black-throated Greens tions. A contretemps by an E. Bluebird oc- in Wyoming-Laramie May 7-11 C[DM), curred in a Laramie cemetery May 23, "fly- Casper May 12 (•'JH), and Cheyenne May 16 ing from stone to stone giving everyone a (OKS et a/.•); Blackburntan at Fountain, good look. Unfortunately he chosethe Satur- Colo., May 30 (J&RW); Chestnut-sided at day of Memorial Day weekend, and was Dyer, Nev., for the second year in a row chasedaway by the traffic" (DM). Another (•'GM, •'JL); Palm at Grand Teton N.P. visited Cheyenne May 28 (FK). Blue-gray ($CS), a first latilong; Nevada's secondKen- Gnatcatchersappeared at SteamboatSprings tucky Warbler May 23-28 (•PL), •GM, $JL); Mar. 20 & Apr. 9 (CA), Roxborough Park a • Hooded at Dyer May 27 (LK, fide JL) near Denver Apr. 26 (KH), Rocky Mountain and one at Boulder May 22-24 (BWe et ai.). N.P., May 9 (JC), and Cheyenne May 23 (PW). The description of a Black-tailed BLACKBIRDS, TANAGERS--Two new Gnatcatcher at Ruby L., May 2 relied on the latilongs in e. Colorado produced E. Mea- Female Boreal Owl near nest, May 2, 1981, tail and calls for the identification (•'KD). dowlarks with records from Limon Apr. 15 Cameron Pass, Colo., first Colorado nest. Water Pipits appeared in an unusually large (F&JJ•) and Two Buttes May 14 (•'JR). A • Photo/David A. Palmer. flock of 500 in a freshly-mowed field at Las Hooded Oriole at Zion May 7 furnished the

848 American Birds, September 1981 secondrecord there (tJB). Two-three pairs of Casper Mt., in mid-May were late in mi- wood (7), Mary Back (10), Louis Bevier, Ste- Scott's Orioles exhibited nesting behavior grating to their nestingterritory (JH) and the phen Bouffard (6), Boulder Audubon Socie- Apr. 28 at Pleasantview,Colo.; if nesting is flock of 3200 Brown-cappedsMay 9 at Estes ty, J. Brack, B. Brock, W.W. Brocknet, M. confirmed, the state's secondbreeding loca- Park, Colo., was unusuallylarge (WR). Pine Bromley (MBr), Richard Bunn (10), Josh tion (tCB). Northern (Baltimore) Orioles Siskins occurred abundantly this spring Burns (10), Clair Button, S. Casjens,Charles visited Bonny Res., Colo., and made rare ap- throughout Colorado and Wyoming; they Chase III Jean Christensen(36), William & pearances in Wyoming at Cheyenne and find dandelionsgone to seedquite attractive. Beth Clark, Mark Collie (MCo), M. Collins, Sheridan (D.A.S., PW, •JRa). Great-tailed Most surprisingwas the report from Sheridan Colorado Field Ornithologists, M. & J. Grackles have spread N to Ruby Valley and of "many fuzzy young" May 3-12 (ME, TP). Cressman,Denver Audubon Society, Denver Sunnyside, Nev. (MCo, SB), are established Of the early spring flock of 50 Red Crossbills Field Ornithologists,Denver Mus. of Natural in s.w. Utah (U.F.O.), and reachedBicknell at Zion feeding on ponderosa pine cones, History, F. Davidson, C. Dctar, J. Dom, in c. Utah Apr. 18 (K&MJ) and ]gnacio, "half were streaky-breastedjuveniles, indi- Helen Downing (47), Kenneth Dzinbal, Mar- Colo., Apr. 11 (fide EF) and Pueblo, Colo. catingvery recentnesting" (R&JT). Around tha Earls(MEa), M. Elliott (MEI), Glenn Eli- (RB). Hedges confirmed Corn. Grackles Boulder observersare still waiting for evi- son, Margaret Ewing (4), Janet Eyre (2), M. breeding in Utah by finding 3 nests May denceof nestingto begin (LH). Severalwere Figgs,J. Fitts, M. Flanagan(MF1), T. Fonta- 22-23 at a colony at the museum in Vernal, at Lida, Nev., May 27 (BB, JB, fide JL). nelle, L. Foley, T. Fowler (TFw), Elva Fox where they have occurred since 1976. At Jacksonreported two White-winged Cross- (10), Jerome Gifford, B. & V. Gilbert, Drew Eagle, Colo., they arrived for the first time-- bills Mar. 25 (R J). & Sheryl Grainger, Alan Grenon, J.R. Gua- four pairs strong (JM). A pair of Hepatic dagno, Carol Hack, May Hanesworth(30), Tanagers stayed at Las Vegas May 4-9, for SPARROWS--A Rufous-crowned Spar- Paula HansIcy, L. Hartman (LHa), Kathy the fourth record in 10 years (VM). row on May 6 gave Las Vegasits first record Hawkins, D. Heath, Steve Hedges, Louise since 1973 (VM). Beginnersin a bird watch- Hering (55), JamesHerold, J. Holitza (JHo), FINCHES, CROSSBILLS--While Rose- ing classspotted a Black-throatedSparrow at M. Holmgren (MHo), Mark Janos, David breasted Grosbeakshave become regular mi- Denver May 2 (AS, FW, HK, JJ). Two Sage Jasper (18), Kelly & Mary Jensen, R. Juno, grants in most of the Region, the male found Sparrows reachedColorado SpringsMar. 27 Frank & Jan Justice, F. Kaiser, Gleb Kashin, May 17 at Beaver Dam Wash was the only (RB) and SheridanMay 4 (HD, MC). Harris' Jon Kauffeld, Ursula Kepler (14), Merlin one reported from Utah in 10 years, perhaps Sparrows, like several other e. and midwest- Killpack, Steve Kingswood, Kate Kirtleman the fifth state record (U.F.O., $LM, $ML). ern species,have becomeregular inhabitants (18), L. Klaisle, Jeri Laughare, Chuck Law- At Sheridan 9 Rose-breasteds and Black- of the Mountain West; the one which winter- son, D. Leatherman, Paul Lehman, Mark headedsvisited a feeder together, giving ob- ed through Mar. 29 at Gardnerville, Nev., Leppert, Polly Long (PLo), Larry Malone, servers an educational comparison of their was as far w. in our Region as it could get Guy McCaskie, Ann Means, John Merchant field marks (LW). Two observers in s.w. (W&BC). White-throated Sparrows exhibit (3), M. Middleton, Vince Mowbray (6), Da- Utah felt that Blue Grosbeaks were notice- the same regularity in lesser numbers; one vid Mozurkewich (7), John Nelson, Bob Oak- ably scarcerthis year (JG, SH). Pushing both feeding with White-crowneds in mid-April leaf, D. Palmer, Ruth Parkison, B. Parsons from E and S, Indigo Buntings now occur provided Zion's fourth record (CP, fide (BPa), C. Pasterczyk, M. Perkins, Suzanne throughout the Region; individuals in Lara- R&JT). The two Fox Sparrows in the LaSal Peterson (3), T. Peterson, S. Pintar (SPi), mie and Glenwood Springs,Colo., had pene- Mts., of s.e. Utah, May 24-25 were in a new Bill Pickslay (3), J. Rawinski (JRa), Bert trated farthest into the Region. In Logan, location and the two at Provo, Utah, May 26 Raynes (22), Jack Reddall, Warner Reeser, Utah, Stokes has banded "Lazuli Buntings were unusual (R&ES, MW). McCown's J.C. Rigli, John Row (JRo), R.A. Ryder, for 8 years in his backyard. This year he Longspurswere migrating through the Chey- Charles Saunders, A. Scavardo, O.K. Scott, banded 310 males, 15-20 more than last year; enne area May 12-13, with none May 11, D. Shirley, M.M. Simons, M.O. Snyder, 82 were returns wearing his bands. Two of thousandsMay 12, and many fewer May 13 Richard & Ella Sorenson,Mahlon Speers,A. the returns were from 1974" (KA). Evening (MSt). Stokes, Mark Stromberg (MSt), Pat & Ward Grosbeaks played their spotty distribution Stryker, Bert Tignor (17), Wayne Tillay, game this spring: numerous and nesting in CORRIGENDA--Sheridan also had a Robert & Joan Tweit (6), Utah Division of portions of the foothills of the Front Range, Snowy Owl last fall (AB 35:210), Nov. 27 Wildlife Resources, Utah Field Ornitholo- tremendousnumbers in Jacksonand Cody, (LF, MF1). The Hepatic Tanagerat Cheyenne gists, S. VanderWall, M. Wadman (MWa), not many but still present in most of the rest (AB 35:211)was probably the third Wyoming Bill Wagner, Judy Ward, F. Waugh, G. Wat- of the Region. Cassin'sFinches were well dis- record, not the first (HD). son, Jim & Rosie Watts, B. Webb (BWe), tributed throughout the Region. Rosy Finch- Merrill Webb, Phil White, M. Whitney es go to the high country as soon as the snow CONTRIBUTORS (in boldface)and CIT- (MWh), Craig Williams, O. Williams, Rober- clears, but often drop down during late ED OBSERVERS--Aiken Audubon Society, ta Winn, S. Wuerthele, L. Wuthier.--HUGH spring storms. Still, those Gray-crownedson T. Amrein, Keith Archibald (10), Cary At- E. KINGERY, 869 Milwaukee Street, Den- ver, Colo. 80206.

SOUTHWEST REGION system may have con- tributed to the excellent /Kenneth V. Rosenberg,John P. shorebird migration and •...... •:'•..••.'"•...... ,...... •ii:i• *?•'•-'-';•;•,•?:•::•, "•':.•/-ß Hubbard and Scott B. Terrill other unusual occurrences at Zuni in west-central I "'•_•.._•__•__. ChinU, I Lo,Slomo,, New Mexico. I ".•C•.•HooverDam •nd I •]5o• F$ To many birders the most noteworthy birds of [ ::'•"• To ock rlaOS•we•eHolbrook • Son•q 1 Observersthroughout the Region generally the season were concen- -•-•:...... , ' • . Foa$umn• agreed that weather patterns were "normal" trated along the borders for the spring and seemedto bear little rela- of the Region. The first tion to the numerous unusual bird records re- regional record of i-:''"'•l/ Y/o- •;.• •olidge Butte/ Rmwell ported. Notable exceptions were two severe Anhingain over 100 years storms that swept acrossnorthern Arizona in came from the extreme mid-May, bringing near-freezing tempera- southeastcorner, whereas !•; I *-o'•: "*" '-..0,... %/ • o.•- tures, strong easterly winds, and some snow, Arizona's first-ever Red- i:-'::'I t?..--•--• s •-• c•o• -• c • m,'•-•:•?C:'":;:• even to lowland areas. Consequently,a single necked Grebe appeared in trip to northeastArizona "oases" May 16-20 the far west. Detailed recorded tremendousnumbers of grounded below are New Mexico's .:-- % U -- ...•-::' . migrants, including many significant records first documented Lucifer of shore- and other water birds. The same Hummingbirds, the

Volume 35, Number 5 849 fourth United States appearance of Black- (M Swain) were more unusual A lone A Stilt Sandpiperat Zum May 12-14 was w capped Gnatcatcher,and probably the first White-fronted Goose at Parker in the lower of the usualrange in New Mexico (ph., JT) regionaloccurrence of Royal Tern. Bizarre is Colorado valley (hereafter, L.C.V.) Mar. 28 Usually rare in spring, N. Phalarope made a the best term to describe the wayward provided the first spring record there in many better-than-average showing in New Mexico albatross rescued from downtown Yuma, cer- years (ST et el.). and n.e. Arizona, includingsix at Chinle May tainly for birders, the outstanding event of Black-bellied Whistling Ducks were widely 19 and 15 at Ganado L., May 20 (ST, LT, the season. scatteredin s.e. Arizona, includinge. of Por- ph.). tal where they are very rare (RS). More than Unexpected was an ad. Thayer's Gull at LOONS TO ANHINGA--The imm. Red- normal numbers of "Mexican-type" Ducks Zuni, N. Mex., on the late date of May 5 throated Loon at Albuquerque remained were recorded in the L.Pec.V., with at least (?JT). Easterly California Gulls were one at through Mar. 31 (m.ob., ph.), extendingthe five birds betweenRoswell and Loving Mar. Morgan L., N. Mex., Apr. 26 (AN), two at stay of New Mexico's first confirmed record 16-18 (WCH et el.). A cyEur. Wigeon was on Zuni May 9 (?JT), one at Luna L., Ariz, of this species.Another loon, probably this the Colorado R., at Parker Mar. 20-28 (ph., May 13 (TG, M. Delamore), and ten at species,was presentjust southward at Isleta MK, KR). One of two wintering 9 Wood Ganado L., Ariz., May 20 (ST, LT). An ad Apr. 1-9 (WHo et el.). A first for Arizona Ducks lingered until May 20 near Nogales, Franklin's Gull with very pink plumage was was a breeding-plumagedRed-necked Grebe Ariz. (DS, KK et el.); others were present at Bill Williams Delta in the L.C.V. Mar. 28 on lower L. Havasu Mar. 23 (CR, ph., MK). near Albuquerque, includinga male through (ph., KR et el.); there are very few spring May 25 (WHo et el.). The two White-winged records there. Another adult was at Page, Scoters on L. Havasu stayed until Mar. 12, Ariz., May 19 (ST, LT). and the Black Scoter remained at Parker Four Forster's Terns May 20 at Ganado L The bird of the seasonwas a Laysan Al- Dam until at least Mar. 30, when it was ac- (ST, LT), and two at Luna L., May 13 (TG, batross found on a Yuma, Ariz., street quiring ad. male plumage (MK). M. Delamore), furnished the first spring re- May 14 by Milton Haderlee. The bird sur- cords for n.e. Arizona. Even more unusual in vived on fish for two days until it was RAPTORS AND PTARMIGAN--Missi~ spring was a Com. Tern May 20 at Lyman L, taken to San Diego's Sea World. There, it sippi Kites again returned to the Roswell n. of Springerville, Ariz. (ST, LT). Four was photographed,and upon recovering area, where largely unreported in recent birds identified as Royal Terns were at Tuc- fully was to be released in the Pacific years, with seven there May 25 (WCH). An son briefly May 15 (WD, GG, DS et al., ph, Ocean (fide G. McCaskie). This phenom- ad. and imm. Goshawk near Arivaca, Ariz., SG). Photos are still being circulated among enal occurrenceis not without precedent, Mar. 1 (DS), and three near Albuquerque experts to positively eliminate the possibility however; another Laysan Albatross was Apr. 1-15(WHo et el.) wereunusual for low- of ElegantTern; either specieswould be new seen flying over the s. California desert land localities. An active FerruginousHawk to Arizona and the Region. May 5, 1976 (AB 30:888). nest near Kingman was among the few ever found in Arizona (BM). Notable Broad- OWLS THROUGH HUMMINGBIRDS-- winged Hawks in New Mexico were an adult A Flammulated Owl calling at Cottonwood An imm. Olivaceous Cormorant at L. Mc- Apr. 20 and an immature May 26 near Albu~ Gulch, Zuni Mts., Mar. 15 (DM) was very Millan Apr. 28-May 10 (?WCH) represents querque (WHo et el.), and an adult May 3 at early. A FerruginousOwl was at a deserttank perhaps the best-documentedrecord for the Zuni (JT). Harris' Hawk continuesto be seen near Ajo, Ariz., in April (BM). More sur- lower PecosValley (hereafter, L.Pec.V.). Of at San Simon Cienega, extremes.e. Arizona, prising was a Saw-whet Owl in mesquitesat 13 Double-crested Cormorants at Bitter Lake with one there Mar. 31 (T. Supplee). another tank in that area in April (BM), N W.R., Mar. 23, at leastfive had black nup- Eleven pairs of White-tailed Ptarmigan lowland recordsare very few and are primari- tial plumes; this suggeststhat an e. race oc- from Colorado were liberated in the Pecos ly from in mid-winter. curs in the L.Pec.V., whereas the w. elbocil- Wilderness of n. New Mexico in late May, in A ChimneySwift was well seennear Phoe- tetus seems to be the form of the lower Rio an effort to restorethis speciesto ancestral nix May 20 (•DS). Severalswifts, identified Grande Valley of New Mexico (JH). The win- range in the Sangre de Cristo Mts. (JH). as Vaux's, were in extreme e. Arizona near tenng birds persistedat Morgan L., N. Mex., Eagar May 22 (BJo, MH); any Cheeture spe- with threethere Mar. 17, and oneat Farming- SHOREBIRDS AND LARIDS--Paired ciesis very rare there. With these, was a larg- ton May 9 was a first for that city (AN). and defensive Am. Avocets at Many Farms er all-black swift, most likely a Black (BJo, A 9 Anhinga at Hobbs, N. Mex., Apr. 25 L., Chinle, and Petrified Forest N.P., in n.e. MH). Although amazingly early, another rea- (?C. Levine, R. Russell) was most unusual; Arizona in late May suggestedlocal breeding, sonably well-described swift identified as a the only documented record for New Mexico which has been noted at few localities in the Black Swift, was seen Mar. 31 at Cave Cr (and the Region) was obtained in the 1850s. state (ST, LT, KR, DS). Two Snowy Plovers Canyon, Chiricahua Mts. (?R.F. Koes et el ), at Many Farms L., May 19 (ST, LT) and one despitepersistent sight records, Arizona lacks HERONS THROUGH WATERFOWL-- near Holbrook May 31 (KR, DS) were per- documentation of this speciesin the state. Cattle Egrets fanned out in small numbers haps first n.e. Arizona reports. Unusual plo- Lucifer Hummingbird was verified for the over the w. part of the Region Apr. 15-May vers in New Mexico were a Mountain at Zuni first time in New Mexico, as at least two 21, including in such unlikely areas as Virden Mar. 22 (JT), an Am. Golden at Bitter Lake males and three females were present in the (JH), Alma (T.A. Gatz), Zuni (JT), and San- N.W.R., Apr. 5 (?N&DJ), and the state's se- PeloncilloMts., near Rodeo Apr. 5 +. (RS et ta Fe (R. Gonzales) in New Mexico, and cond report of Piping Plover at Bosque del el., ph.). A cy Costa's in Antelope Pass, Richville (ST), Superior (SW), Green Valley Apache N.W.R., also on Apr. 5 (?D&SH). Peloncillo Mts., Apr. 23 (W. Baltosser, * to (J Saba), and Phoenix (KR) in Arizona. This Two Whimbrels over L. Havasu Mar. 28 Smithsonian) represents the northernmost specieshas not yet becomefirmly established (ST, LT) were a bit early, as was a Willet at verified record for New Mexico. in the Region. Phoenix Apr. 4 (ST et el.). New Mexico's Two Rufous Hummingbirds in the Single herons thought to be Louisianas, third Ruddy Turnstone was at Zuni May 10 Chiricahua Mts., Apr. 5-15 & 25 add to the but with dark underparts,were seenat Bitter (?JT); the previous records were in the now-annual records there in spring. Two Lake N.W.R., Apr. 25-29 and Loving May L.Pec.V. Another of this speciesdropped White-eared Hummingbirds in Rose Canyon, 19+ (WCH et el.). Could these be hybrids down at Ganado L., Ariz., during a severe Santa Catalina Mts., May 6 (J. Bock) and with Little Bluesin an area where both spe- storm May 20 (ST, LT). Sanderlings ap- one at nearby Summerhaven May 23-June 7 cies are rare? A Little Blue Heron at Espan- peared in good numbers for spring in New (F&W Hopf et el.) were the only onesreport- ola, N. Mex., May 17 (B&W West) was n. of Mexico, including21 at Morgan L., San Juan ed from Arizona this spring. Broad-billed the usual range. Two Great Egrets and two Co., May 17 (AN et el.). Two Short-billed Hummingbirds persisted at such peripheral Snowy Egrets at Many Farms L., n.e. Ariz., Dowitchers were heard at Phoenix May 5, locationsas Portal and Superior, Ariz. May 19 were in an area from where few re- where very rare in spring (ST, RW). cordsexist (ST, LT). An Am. Bittern at Zuni, Pectoral Sandpipers, exceedinglyrare in WOODPECKERS, FLYCATCHERS-- N Mex., May 16 (JT) was unusual and late. the w. part of the Region in spring, were re- Downy Woodpeckers were present in moder- Late Snow Geesein New Mexico typically ported early this season at Zuni, N. Mex., ate numbers in cottonwoods in the Albuquer- involve singlebirds (probably injured or ill), Mar. 20 (JT), Morgan L., N. Mex., Mar. 22 que area, with the southernmost nest yet for so two at Fenton L., Jemez Mts., May 12-31 (AN), and Tucson, Ariz., Apr. 4 (SG et el.). the area Los Lunas Apr. 28. In contrast,

850 AmericanB•rds, September 1981 Hairy Woodpeckers were very rare in that Thrush was at L McMlllan, N Mex, May 12 singingBlue-winged Warbler turned up in the area (WHo et el.). (•'WCH), this is the rarest Catharus thrush same city during that period May 14 (WHo et Although not a significant record, a Scis- speciesrecorded in the Region. Eastern Blue- el.), for about the third state sighting. Other sor-tailed Flycatcher at Benson Apr. 21-23 birds again bred in the Pecos Valley region, very rare warblers included a Cape May at (BF) was the only Arizona report of this spe- as evidence by a nest with eggs and an adult Bloomfield, N. Mex., in the period (•-J&J cies. A well-seen and calling Great Crested with a fledgling at Rattlesnake SpringsApr. Rees), a singing Yellow-throated near Eagar, Flycatcher at the Navajo town of Tes Nez 25 (SW), and a pair carryingnesting material Ariz., May 22-June 7 (•-BJo, MH), and a o' Iah, n.e. Ariz., May 19 (•-ST, LT) represented at Ft. Sumner Mar. 27-29 (WCH). More un- Bay-breastedfound dead in Albuquerque only a third state record, but close on the usual was a male at Cottonwood Gulch Apr. May 13 (N. Hight, * to U. New Mexico) In heels of the second record last October at 13 (DM); a first record in New Mexico w. of addition, New Mexico recorded two Chest- nearby Kayenta. Four E. Phoebes were pre- the Rio Grande and n. of the Gila Basin. A nut-sideds at Albuquerque May 4 & 16 sent Apr. 24 near Villanueva, San Miguel pair of Mountain Bluebirdswas found using (WHo) and two Palms, at SandiaP., Apr 22 Co., a known breeding locale in New Mexico. a nest box along a "bluebird trail" in the So- (HS) and at Albuquerque Apr. 24 (WHo) Three Black Phoebes, including a nesting noita grassland, s.e. Ariz., May 10, and An incredibleJ•'ve Kentucky Warblers were pair, were also present(JH); nestingoverlap young were noted May 19 (J. Church et el.). seen in the Region, with different birds at between these 2 specieshas not previously These birds were well out of the normal Tucson May 2 (E. Besslet) and May 24-25 been demonstrated in the state. Black breeding range. (PN), a singingmale at Albuquerque May 12 Phoebeswere also found breeding in the Zuni (SH, WHo), another near Eagar, Ariz., May Mts., N. Mex., where sevenbirds and 2 nests S.A. 18-21 (•-BJo, MH, ph., ST, LT), and a bird at were found at Bluewater L., Apr. 17-May 31 Causing a stir nationwide was the dis- Cave Cr. Canyon May 28 (RN). Two o' (DM). Two migrant E. Phoebeswere noted in covery of a nesting pair of Black-capped Hooded Warblers were also found in Ari- Arizona wherevery rare in spring;Apr. 20-24 Gnatcatchers in Chino Canyon, Santa zona, at Cave Cr. Canyon May 8-10 (T at Portal (SS, R. Morse) and May 16 at Fre- Rita Mts., Ariz., May 17 (•'Bruce Barrett, Goldsmith et al.) and at Guadalupe Canyon donia (GR). KK et el.). Well into its nesting cycle, the May 11 (F. Oatman). Two different Ohve Forty-six Willow Flycatchers was a high pair seemed oblivious to the many who Warblers s. of Flagstaff, Ariz., in March (C count at Teec Nos Pos, n.e. Ariz., May 19 came to seeand photograph it (including Benkman, J. Brawn) and individual Painted (ST, LT). [Were these singing birds?--Ed.] a TV news team); four young were suc- Redstartsin the Sandia Mts., N. Mex., Apr 9 Two reports of calling Least Flycatcherswere cessfully fledged May 24 (fide S. Mills). (GP) & 22 (HS) were at the periphery of their received; May 13 at Albuquerque (•-WHo) This representsthe fourth occurrence and ranges. Among the large numbers of com- and May 19 near Chinle, n.e. Ariz. (ST, LT); second nesting n. of the Mexican border; mon warblers grounded in n.w. Arizona, this speciesis very rare in spring in the Re- details will be publishedelsewhere. 50 + MacGillivray's at Teec Nos Pos May 19 glon, especially westward. Five Gray Fly- was a high count (ST, LT). catchers, including two pairs and three sing- lng birds, were found near Soldier Spring, An ad. c• Black-tailed Gnatcatcher at Lee's ICTERIDS, TANAGERS--Two singing c• Guadalupe Mts., May 31 (WCH, SW) and Ferry on the Colorado R., near the Utah bor- Bobolinks at Teec Nos Pos, Ariz., May 19 5-7 singing Duskies were found on Alegros der May 16 was far from the usual range and (ph., ST, LT) were among very few spring re- Mt., Cantron Co., May 11-13 (DM et el.). representedthe farthest n. occurrenceof the cords in the state. Eastern Meadowlarks were Both of theselocations, if nestingareas, are species(•'LT, ST). Another ad. male was seen present on the Zuni Reservation with 1-5 well s. of the known breeding range of these the same day at Tuzigoot N.M., in the upper birds there Mar. 13-May 23 (JT); one was speciesin New Mexico. A pair of Buff- Verde Valley, where also previously unre- also at Cottonwood Gulch Apr. 20 & 30, two breasted Flycatchers in Cave Cr. Canyon, corded (LT, ST). were near San Rafael May 25 (DM), and four Chiricahua Mts., Apr. 16 into the summer Two Red-eyed Vireos were seen in Ari- in the Albuquerque area Apr. 15-May 27 (J&G Maender et al.) were in an area from zona; in Garden Canyon, Huachuca Mts., (WHo et al.). These localities are at the n which few recent records exist. Coues' Fly- May 26 (LT, ST) and Chino Canyon, Santa limit of the species'range in w. New Mexico catcher is becomingwell establishedin can- Rita Mts., May 30 (P. Vickery, G. Porter). A An ad. male, sub-adult male, and female yons s. of Flagstaff at the n. limit of its range Yellow-throated Vireo was at Bell L., May 20 Hooded Orioles were present together at in Arizona (JC, R.P. Balda). A rare lowland (N&DJ) for about the fifth New Mexico Lee's Ferry, Ariz., May 16 (ST, LT), and the migrant was noted in residentialTempe Apr. record. ad. male was there May 24 (GR). This spot 28 (ST). near the Utah border is far n. of any known WOOD WARBLERS--Of the rare-but- areas of occurrence in this region. A c• N SWALLOWS THROUGH THRASHERS regularlyoccurring species in the Region,two (Baltimore) Oriole at Zuni, N. Mex., May 11 --A large concentration of swallowsat Gana- Black-and-white Warblers, two N. Parulas & 21 (JT) was also unusual. Most unexpected do L., n.e. Ariz., during a severe storm on and four Am. Redstarts in Arizona were be- was a 9 Rusty Blackbird at Springerville, May 20 included 1000 + Violet-greens, 500 + low average, although six TennesseeWarb- Ariz., on the late date of May 21 (•-ST, LT) Trees, and 2000 + Cliffs (ST, LT); this is late lers and 11-12 N. Waterthrusheswere slightly Great-tailed Grackles continue to advance on for large numbers of migrants in this area. high for the state in spring. An additional the n. frontier of their range with n. Arizona Tucson's Cave Swallow returned for its third four Tennessees and at least 19 N. Water- sightingsin May at Lee's Ferry (four), Tuba summerby Apr. 13 (L. Lavine). Rumorsof a thrushes were in the Albuquerque area in City (four), Marble Canyon (five adults, 2 pair together there remain unconfirmed. Mi- May (WHo). A Prothonotary Warbler was fledglings), and McNary (eight adults and grant Purple Martins in n.e. Arizona are of banded and photographed at Albuquerque nests--all ST, LT, GR), and another male at interest; this season,six were at Many Farms May 2 (WHo, ph., SH) and another was at nearbyZuni, N. Mex. (JT). Common Grack- L, May 19 and four were among the swal- Sabino Canyon near Tucson, Ariz., May les were presentin New Mexico at Artesla, lows at Ganado L., May 20 (ST, LT). 22-24 (B. Koenig, J. Coxhead et el., ph., ST). where they were seen carrying food in May Blue Jays persistedin the L.Pec. V., with First verifications were obtained of the (WCH et el.), and they also returned to birds at Ft. Sumner Mar. 27-29 & Apr. 25, Worm-eating Warbler in New Mexico, with Farmington (AN). A 9 Scarlet Tanager at and singles near Roswell Apr. 11 and at L. single birds at Bitter Lake N.W.R., Apr. 23 Lee's Ferry May 24 (•'GR) furnished only a McMillan Apr. 6 (WCH et el.). A Red- (ph., L. Marlatt) and Ft. Sumner Apr. 24 (T. tenth Arizona record. A c• Summer Tanager, breasted Nuthatch at Teec Nos Pos, n.e. Hildebrandt, * to Smithsonian). Another thought to be the s.w. race cooperi, was well Ariz., May 19 (ST, LT) was very late for a bird was seen in Hondo Canyon, Sandia n. of its usual range at Petrified Forest N P, lowland migrant. The only migrant Brown Mts., May 3 (GP, HS), and an additional two Ariz., May 20 (ST, LT). This speciesagain re- Thrasher in the w. part of the Region was at turned up in Arizona, at Cave Cr. Canyon, turned to the Ft. Sumner-Roswell, N. Mex Mesa, Ariz., Apr. 28 (KR). Chiricahua Mts., about May 21 (R. Rowlett area with ten there in April and May (WCH et el.) and near Eagar May 23 (•-BJo, MH). et el.). THRUSHES TO VIREOS--A Rufous- Also verified for the first time in New Mexico backed Robin near Hereford, Ariz., Mar. 28 was the Golden-wingedWarbler, basedon a FRINGILLIDS--Indigo Buntings were (•'J.M. Bealer)was among the few reportedin male that lingered in Albuquerque May 8-18 also very widely reported, with possiblemale recent years. A probable Gray-cheeked (M. Deutman et el., ph., DH). Amazingly, a hybrid Indigo X Lazulis noted on Fossil Cr,

Volume 35, Number 5 851 near Strawberry, Ariz., May 10 (KR) and singingbird in Mesa Apr. 28 (tKR). A Dark- though this correction was sent to AB in time near Albuquerque May 19-30 (J.N. Durrie et eyed (White-winged) Junco was seen e. of to have been revised, it was inadvertently al.). A singing c• Purple Finch at Ganado Roswell Mar. 4-9 (WCH, RM); far s. of the omitted from AB 35:212--Ed.] May 31 (DS, KR) wasthe lateston recordfor usual range in New Mexico. A Clay-colored the Region and the first ever in n.e. Arizona. Sparrow at Teec Nos Pos May 19 (ST, LT) Its songsuggested the nominaterace, which is providedthe only Arizona report, and an ad. CONTRIBUTORS (Area compilers in casualin the Region. Also lingeringlate in the Black-chinned Sparrow at Phoenix Apr. 19 boldface)--$. Coons (Flagstaff), D. Dan- lowlands of n.e. Arizona were large numbers (KR) furnished one of very few lowland forth (Huachuca Mts.), W. Davis (Tucson), of Pine Siskins and Am. Goldfinches, al- records. A late Harris' Sparrow was at Ben- B. Fenn, T. Gatz, S. Goldwasser, G. Gregg, though this may be a regular occurrence.An son, Ariz., Apr. 23-27 (BF). A countof 10-12 M. Hanson, W. Howe (WHo), W.C. Hunter exceptionallyhigh count of 130 goldfinches Chestnut-collared Longspurs at Zuni, N. (WHC, L.Pec. V.), D. & S. Huntington, B. at Ganado May 20 (LT, ST) was down to five Mex., Mar. 22 was a first sighting for that ,lackson(BJa) (Globe), N. & D. Jackson, B. birds by May 31 (KR, DS). Ten or more Red area (JT). The only McCown's reported in Jones (BJo), M. Kasprzyk (LCV), K. Kauf- Crossbills were present in the s. Guadalupe the periodwere singles at L. McMillan Mar. 1 man, R. Martin, D. A. McCallurn, B. Mil- Mts., May 31, including an adult with a (WCH) at Ft. Sumner Mar. 29 (RM). sap, A. P. Nelson, P. Norton, R. Norton, G. fledgling (WCH, SW). Parker, C. Romano, G. Rosenberg, R. In the L.Pec. V., singing Rufous-sided ADDENDUM--The White-tailed Tropic- Scholes, H. Schwartz, S. Spofford (Portal), Towbees were largely restricted to the Arte- bird specimenfrom Scottsdale,Ariz., August D. Stejskal, L. Terrill, C. Tomoff, J. Tro- sia-L., McMillan area, with two fledglings 1980, has been identified as the race P. I. chet, J. Witzeman, R. Witzeman, S. West. there May 18 (WCH et al.). Singing Grass- dorotheae which breeds on s. Pacific islands Abbreviations; •', written details or ph., pho- hopper Sparrows staged an influx into that and in Hawaii Ffide G. Watson, Smithson- tograph on file with New Mexico Ornitho- area, with at least 40 between Artesia and ian). This representsthe first specimenof this logical Soc. or Arizona Bird Committee; *, Loving, and two at Ft. Sumner Apr. 17-29 race from North America. speciman.--KENNETH V. ROSENBERG, (WCH et al.). Only a singlenon-singing bird 1010 W. 17th St., Tempe, AZ 85281, JOHN was noted in May near Artesia. Extralimital CORRIGENDUM--The imm. Gray Hawk P. HUBBARD, 2016 Valle Rio, Santa Fe, Cassin's Sparrows in Arizona were a "sky- reportedat Artesia, N. Mex., in September- NM 87501, and SCOTT B. TERRILL, Dept. larking" individual near Poston Apr. 24 October 1980 (AB 35:212) was actually a of Zoology, Arizona State University, Tempe (J'MK) for a first L.C.V. record, and another Broad-winged (fide Richard Glinski). [A1- AZ 85281.

ALASKA REGION May 2 + (TOO et al.) becamequite an attrac- at Middleton I., Gulf of Alaska, with Blue- tion and made the local newspaper;it provid- winged Teal May 10-22 (JSH et al.) was one /D.D. Gibson ed the first substantiated Alaska record of a of few southcoastal records; it was the only member of this family. An ad. Black- report received this spring. crowned Night Heron studiedat ShemyaI., Canvasbackswere widely commented on, Another early, mild spring resulted in an w. Aleutians Apr. 25 (•'TGT & GBR) provid- from Juneau--where the specieswas fairly often unexciting migration, with few waves ed another first substantiated record for common, in flocks of up to 11 birds May 8 + of birds, interspersed with very early indi- Alaska, although there have been 2 other re- (RJG)--w. and n. Eighty birds at Safety viduals of speciesthat subsequentlyarrived cent, undoubtedly correct, Alaska sightings Sound, Seward Pen., June 7 paralleled num- on time. There were some very exciting re- (see AB 33:798). All three records are pro- bers seenthere last spring (RWS); a nestwith cords too: four additions to the State list, bably referable to nominate nycticorax, the 8 eggs near the Tutakoke R. mouth May 29 three of them coming from elsewhere in Palearctic race. (REG, GVB, TA) may be only the third North America, one from Asia, and another two (one Palearctic, one Nearctic) await re- WATERFOWL-- ceipt of substantiatinginformation. Two Whooper Swans at Attu I., w. Aleutians SHEARWATERS, PELICANS, HERONS May 2-3 and one adult --The fourth Alaska record of Manx Shear- there May 5 (TGT & water was furnished by a bird seen between GBR) number among the Barren Is. and Homer May 17 (•'CH). few Aleutian records as There is yet no specimen or photograph of late as May. A cy Eur. this species in Alaska waters. A White Wigeon at Petersburg Pelican present at Petersburg, s.e. Alaska Mar. 16 (SK) was record early, and another at Girdwood, near An- chorage Mar. 29 (CA, fide DFD) and subse- quently was record early as well. The first spring bird at Kodiak I., was a male noted Apr. 16 (RAM). A pair of Am. Wigeons at Shemya Apr. 29 (TGT) adds to very few w. Aleutian records of this bird. Blue-winged Teal in small numbers were widespread in south- eastern, southcoastal, and central Alaska this White Pelican. From the Petersburg Pilot, spring (m.ob.). A cy Petersburg, Alas. Cinnamon Teal present

852 American Birds, September 1981 Yukon-Kuskokwim R. [hereafter, Y-K] Delta flying bird provided an addition to the Stilt Sandpiper observed at St. Paul June 12 breedingrecord since 1950; and a pair on the Alaska list, our first Recurvirostrid. One (RWS et aL) was amazing. The only other Colville R. Delta in late May (JWH) may be molting Am. Golden Plover at Shemya Apr. Bering Sea recordof this speciesis from near- the first n. Alaska record. A 9 Corn. Pochard 24 (TGT) was at the early end of the normal by St. George I., June 6, 1968 (Auk 86:748, was well described at Homer Mar. 22 (•'TGT, arrival period for the Alaska Pacific coast; a 1969). •'JLD, •'LJO), the first mainland Alaska max. of 97 birds at Attu May 22 (TGT et al.) record. The date is perplexing,since no win- was an unusually high count in spring. The GULLS, TERNS--An ad. Ring-billed Gull ter record is known in the Region, and sincea rare, annual Marbled Godwit was recorded was seenat Homer Mar. 21-22 (•'TGT, •'JLD, male at ShernyaApr. 24-28 (TGT) provided on scheduleat Kodiak--six May 2 and eight •'LJO). This bird is a scarcevisitant along the the earliest-ever Aleutian record. There were May 4 (RAM & JBA); one May 16 at Seward Alaska Pacific coast, but it is recorded most no additional reports this season.Redheads (•'BS & SS) was late and provided a local first every year. An ad. Franklin's Gall at An- were fairly common at Juneau, where they record. Whimbrels were more numerous than chorage May 16-17 (•'CH, •'JCP, •'JLT et al.) occurred in flocks of up to 15 Apr. 18+ usual in the westernmost Aleutians this provided only the fourth Alaska record. Two (RJG); three at Middleton I., May 13-22 spring; first seen May 21, on time, they oc- Ross' Gulls, only one of which was an adult, (DDG et ai.) demonstrated trans-Gulf of curred in numbers through June 1, max. a were seen at the Colville R. mouth June 16 Alaska movement in a species that was flock of 25 + on 21st (TGT et al.). Small (JWH). The only other report this seasonwas unknown on the Alaska Pacific coast a few numbers of Bristle-thighed Curlews were of one bird at Gambell June 10 (MS et al.). years ago; and five May 6 and three May 13 observedat Middleton I., May 11-22, one or Four Caspiau Terus described well at Ket- at Kodiak "were not birds that had wintered two birds every few days (DDG et al.), pro- chikan June 2 (•'FAG) and one seen at close in the area" (RAM). Two males were seenat riding further evidencethat many (?) of these range there June 4 (•'REW) became the first Safety Sound June 7, fewer than at the same birds arrive on the Alaska coast to the east of substantiatedAlaska record of the species. time last year (RWS, JLD). A • Tufted Duck the breedinggrounds. Flocks of 25 on June 4 May 15 & 23 at Anchorage(•'DWS et al.) pro- and of 17 on June 17 near the Tutakoke R., OWLS--A Hawk Owl observed at the Cob vided the first local record. Y-K Delta (REG) are hard to ville R. mouth May 8 (JWH) provided the explain... nonbreeders? feeding aggrega- first n. Alaska record far beyond timber. In OSPREYS, EAGLES, FALCONS--An tions of local breeders?Although this species light of a few Southeasternrecords last winter Osprey at Salt Lagoon, St. Paul I., Pribilof arrives on or near the breeding grounds as (q.v.), a calling Pygmy Owl at Halleck Har- Is., June 11-13 (RWS et aL) numbers among early as the first week of May (see AB bor, Kuiu I., Mar. 10-13 (SK) was of interest. very few BeringSea island records of thisspe- 34:806), it is conceivablethat mid-June flocks Saw-whet Owls were found in small numbers cies; it does not regularly occur beyond tree are of just-arrived migrants. One Bristle- this spring at severallocations on the n. Kenai limit. At least two ad. White-tailed Eagles thighed Curlew at St. Paul June 12 (•'RWS et Pen. (MAM, TGT, JLD, LJO) and as close were seen in the Temnac and Massacre bay al.) numbers among very few Pribilof to Anchorage as Girdwood (TGT, JLD, areas of Attu at intervals May 3 + (TGT et records. LJO), where Boreals and Saw-whets were al.), as in the past few years. A o' European Wood Sandpipersarrived at Attu May 20 heard in the samearea. This is apparently the Kestrel carefully studied at Attu May 4 & 7 (late), but there was a good passage,max. w. end of the species'range. (•'TGT & GBR) was totally unexpected.It 84 + May 22. As in prior years of heavy pas- furnished the first spring record in Alaska. sage,copulation and territorial displayswere WOODPECKERS THROUGH PIPITS-- observed;at least two displaying birds were A "Red-breasted" Sapsucker seen May 2 at COOTS--In the face of another year of presentin the MassacreBay area through the Lydick Slough Trail, near Cordova (SH et "prairie" ducks in Alaska, it is of interest observers' departure June 7 (TGT et al.). al.) furnished the first spring record in the that no Am. Coots were reported in the Inter- Common Sandpiperswere numerousthis spr- State w. of Southeastern,where the speciesis ior, where they bred in 1980. Single birds at ing; 11 birds, includinga flock of 10, May 24 partly migratory. As they are each spring, Juneau Apr. 18 (RJG et al.), e. of Cordova at Attu was max. (TGT). At least eight Tem- Eye-browed Thrushes were scarce in the w. May I (SH et al.), and at Binkleys Slough, minck's Stints arrived at Attu May 22; the Aleutians--singlesat Attu May 23 & 26 (TGT Stikine R., June5 (KB) were the only reports; specieswas present through the 31st, max. et al.) were the only records. A White Wagtail they form no geographicor phenologlepat- 14+ on May 26 (TGT). This bird had been at Attu May 1 tied the State arrival record. A tern that 1 can see. seenpreviously only in ones or twos. At least Yellow Wagtail there May 2 was 10 days one was studied at Gambell, St. Lawrence I., earlier than past arrivals, but, after May 4, SHOREBIRDS--In the Bering Sea, some June2-5 (•'RWS et al.). A 9 Wilson's Phala- none was seenuntil the 20th. The earliest yet, regularly-occurringPalearctic or Aleutian rope studied at Anchorage May 30-June 1 a Gray Wagtail at Attu May 23-25 supplied shorebirds were scarce as always or scarcer (•'BS, ph., DWS, •'JLT et al.) was new to the eighth Alaska record (four of them a sin- than usual (Ringed and Mongolian plovers, southcoastalAlaska and was the only report gle phenomenon--May 29-June 11, 1977, in Dotterel, Black-tailed Godwit, Terek Sand- received this spring. A breeding-plumaged the w. Aleutians). Indian Tree Pipit arrived at piper, Polynesian Tattler, Rufous-necked Attu May 21, and one or two were seen Sandpiper, Long-toed Stint, Ruff) and others thence through 31st. Both Red-throated and were more numerousthan usual (Am. Golden Water pipits arrived in the w. Aleutians May Plover [P. d. fulva], Whimbrel IN. p. varie- 21, over a week late; no member of this fami- gatus], Greenshank, Wood and Common ly was seenin numbers there this spring (TGT sandpipers--m.ob.). Most were on time or et al.). slightlylate. To the e., 13 other shorebirdsar- rived at Kodiak this spring May 2, on time or slightly early, following a day of W winds STARLINGS THROUGH SPARROWS-- (averaging 16 m.p.h.)--Sernipalmated, Am. Starlingswere seenabout the town of Kodiak Golden (P. d. dominica), and Black-bellied at intervals--two Mar. 10,, four Mar. 15, one plovers; Marbled Godwit; Whimbrel (N. p. Apr. 16, and two May 28 (RAM, SW, MV)-- hudsonicus);Ruddy and Black turnstones;N. but, remarkably, none was reported from Phalarope; Short-billed Dowitcher; Western, Anchorage or other southcoastal areas. A Least, and Rock sandpipers;and Dunlin. At Tennessee Warbler at Sheep Cr., Juneau, Kodiak only Greater Yellowlegs (Apr. 16) May 29 (RJG) constitutedthe first Regional and Corn. Snipe (Apr. 24) arrived, on time, report in severalyears. A Townsend'sWarb- earlier (RAM & JBA). ler at Petersburg/lpr. 14 (SK) was record ear- An Americaa Avocet reported with do- ly in the State; the specieswas first recorded witchers on mud flats at Valdez for a week in at Juneau Apr. 26 (RJG), on time. A • mid-May (MLW, RW, JP et al.) was aston- Brambling at Attu May 22 was earliest ishing. After Anchorage observers were an- (TGT), and late; nothing approachingspring noyed a few yearsago by a wooden avocet de- Wilson's Phalarope, Anchorage, Alas., May 1980's abundance (/lB 34:807) was seen in liberately set out to deceive, this feeding and 31, 1981. Photo/D. W. Sonneborn. 1981. Pine Siskins were common to abundant

Volume35, Number 5 853 in s. Alaska this spring. They were "abun- present at least through Mar. 23 (TGT, JLD, R.E. Gill, F.A. Glass, R.J. Gordon, J.S. dant and clearly nesting" at Kodiak in mid- LJO). Hawkings, J.W. Heimericks, S. Hills, C. Ho- May (RAM), and small numberswere present henberger,B. Kessel,S. Komarek, R.A. Mac as far n. as Fairbanks (BK). White-winged ABBREVIATIONS--m.ob.--many Intosh, M.A. Miller, L.J. Oakley, T.O. Os- Crossbills were ubiquitous in southcoastal observers; •'--detaiis on file U.A.M.; ph.-- borne, J. Perkins, J.C. Pitcher, G.B. Rosen- Alaska this season, but their abundance var- photograph on file U.A.M. band, B. Scher, S. Scott, M. Smith, D.W. ied from place to place {m.ob.). A Rustic Sonneborn, R.W. Stallcup, T.G. Tobish, Bunting at Attu May 20 was earliest (TGT), CONTRIBUTORS AND OBSERVERS-- J.L. Trapp, M. Vivion, M.L. Ward, R. and late. Few were seenthis year. The Harris' C. Albertson, T. Aldrich, J.B. Allen, K. Ward, S. Wilson, R.E. Wood.--D.D. GIB- Sparrow that overwintered at Homer was Becker, G.V. Byrd, D.F. DeLap, J.L. Dunn, SON, Univ. of Alaska Museum, Fairbanks, Alaska 99701.

NORTHERN PACIFIC COAST ports of nesting came from near Portland REGION (DFi) and from Seattle /Eugene S. Hunn and Philip W. (ER, MD). Eighteen Mattocks, Jr. Great Egret reports were received from 7 Oregon localities. All were before Apr. 6, except March was several degrees warmer and one May 2 on the Pistol slightly drier than usual at the Medford, R., in extremes. Oregon Portland, Seattle, and Vancouver weather (fide HN). Coos Bay's stations. Then during April and May rainfall Snowy Egret stayed in Vancouver was about twice normal. Far- through Apr. 5 as usual ther south, however, there was less than nor- (fide AMc). The seven mal rain throughout the period. White-faced Ibises May Passefinemigration was particularly noted 25 at Eugene, Oreg. May 2-I3, with unusually large numbers of (SG, SSu, CW), furnish- Warbling Vireos, Orange-crowned Warblers, ed an extraordinary Wiison's Warblers, and Western Tanagers Regional record. being widely reported. The unusual Regional records of White-faced Ibises, Common Gai- GEESE AND DUCKS iinule, Black-necked Stilt, American Avocet, --DFi estimated the and Black-throated Sparrow should indicate Black Brant migration very dry conditions to the south and east of at 500/hr passingN off us. the Lincoln County, Oreg., coastline Apr. 5. LOONS THROUGH IBISES--Only two A peak count of 10,000 Yellow-billed Loons were reported; one at came from Wiilapa Bay Orcas i., in the United States San Juans Mar. Apr. ii-12 (DA1, KBe, 3 (TW), the other a breedingplumaged bird KH, fide WW). The few in SatelliteChannel near Victoria, V.I., May wintering White-fronted Geese departed by Kites again proved scarcein spring. Six indi- 8 (WC, fide VG). Arctic Loons were noted early April. Late April saw a passageof birds viduals were reported at 5 Oregon sitesn. to moving in large numbers in early May, with from farther s., with the high count of 200 the S.J.C.R. The single bird present there "thousands" off Pt. Roberts, Wash., May 6 over Leadbetter Pt., Wash., Apr. 29 (RWi). Mar. 1 (DFi), may have been moving S, as all (MMc, VN, fide WW), 700+ off the The 3000 Snow Geese wintering at Reifei I., later reports were from s. of Eugene. Accipi- S.J.C.R., May 9 (DFi), and "large numbers" near Ladner, B.C., departed about Apr. 26 ters made another strong showing, although just offshore from Westport, Wash., May 10 for their Wrangell I. breeding grounds slightly off last spring's totals. Eight Gos- (BHT). One light phase Western Grebe at (WW). hawks and 48+ each of Sharp-shinnedand Seattle Apr. 18 (tWHo) was the first report A Gadwall brood e. of Ladnet, B.C., Apr. Cooper's hawks were reported from through- of this form we have receivedfor the Region. 26 was very early (WW). Five "Eurasian" out the Region. A Goshawk pair nestedin a A Laysan Albatross 14 mi s.w. of Torino, Green-winged Teal were reported, with one remnant gallery forest along the Black R., in V.I., May 21 provided one of very few Re- wintering bird remaining in Seattle until Apr. Renton, Wash., at a site scheduled for devel- gional records within the continental shelf 26 {ER). Blue-wingedTeal reports continued opment (KBn). Pairs of Cooper's Hawks (MaS, fide VG). TW's 3 early May pelagic to increase. They were widely noted after nestedat Victoria (HA, fide VG) and at Pitt trips off Westport found good numbers of Apr. 24, with peaks of 86 May 23-25 in Saa- Meadows, e. of Vancouver, B.C. (WR, fide the regular tubenoses,closely comparable to nich, V.I. (RS, fide VG), and of 157 May 21 ww). the high counts of last spring. Two dark N. on Sea and Iona Is., B.C. (WW). Blue- The Red-shouldered Hawk has established Fuimars May 5 provided the first spring re- wingeds now outnumber Cinnamon Teal in a beachheadin the Region as up to five birds ports here in several years. The one-two spring n. of the Columbia R., almost 10:1. A were seen Mar. 22-Apr. 26 at the Winchuk R. Flesh-footed Shearwaterseach trip represent- hybrid of these two specieswas described mouth at Brookings, Oreg., just n. of the ed a minor comebackfor that species,which from Iona I., May 14-22 (BK, DK,fide WW). California border. Another individual was 20 has been unreported in the Region in spring One 9 Tufted Duck turned up in Vancouver's mi farther n. at Pistol R. (TC, JGi, OSc, since 1978. Stanley P., Mar. 18-30 (•'BK, •'WW et al.). DAn, TM, DE). The Swainson's Hawk, a Nineteen Brandt's Cormorants lingered at Harlequin Duck pairs on the Kalama R., and rare spring migrant, was reported Apr. 23 at Active Pass in the Georgia Straits until May the s. fork of the Toutle R., both draining Sutherlin, Oreg. (MHu, fide CW), and Apr. 28 (RS, MiS, fide VG), and 40 remained at Mt. St. Helens' w. flank, were likely nesters 26 on WhidbeyI., Wash. (•'PA, RR). The last Olympia, Wash., May 16 (BHT). Very few there (BL eta!., fide SSa). The two King Rough-legged Hawk lingered at Ocean remain to breed n. of the Columbia R. The Eiders at Seaside,Oreg., were last reported Shores until Apr. 26-May 2 (KBn, KBo). scantwinter Green Heron numberswere aug- Mar. 8 (JGi, HN). Golden Eagleshad young in the nest by Apr. mented throughoutto s. British Columbia by 23 in Douglas County, Oreg. (MHu, fide migrants arriving in early April. Definite re- KITES TO GALLINULES--White-tailed CW). Six Bald Eagle nests were reported

854 AmericanBirds, September 1981 from Slletz Bay, Oreg, n to Victoria and 800-1000 at Ocean Shores(KBo) Long-balled Oregoncoast Mar 21-22 (HN, DI, TC), and Vancouver, B.C. This represented only the Dowltcher migration m the Region is more one at Pt. Roberts, Wash., Apr. 12 (BK, fide tip of the iceberg as a survey of w. Washing- protracted and less habitat specific. The 200 WW) was early for so far n. The speciesis ton in the early 1970scounted 100 active nests in Seattle May 13 (ES, ER) was the max- known to breedin the Region only in Wlllapa (Grubb et al., Murrelet 56:2-6, 1975). Sixteen imum. A Buff-breasted Sandpiper with a and Grays Harbors on the s. Washington active Osprey nests were reported, including flock of Whimbrel Apr. 12 (•MSm, fide HN) coast. However, two pairs were copulatmg one in a Seattle city park (EH, BMe, DHu) provided the first spring record for the West May 9 at the S.J.C.R. (DFi), and groups of and 7 about Victoria (fide VG). A gray Gyr- Coast of North America (Roberson, Rare one-three dozen were observed daily near falcon in C. Saanich, V.I., was observed re- Birds of the West Coast, p. 181, 1980). A Bellingham and Iona I. (TW, WW), in addi- peatedly Mar. 1-21 (AK, LR, fide VG). An- storm apparently precipitated the flock of tion to more widespreadreports of one-six other gray Gyrfalcon was seen at Tillamook, 145 Marbled Godwits at Ashland high up on birds. One Black Tern was at Sumas Prairie, Oreg., Apr. 5 (DFi, HN, DHo). The 17 Pere- the Rogue R. valley in s. Oregon, Apr. 25-26 e. of Vancouver, B.C., May 13 (MiS, fide gnne and 26 Merlin reports were slightly be- (MMo, VZ, OSw). Otherwisethe high count VG). An Ancient Murrelet persistedin court- low last spring's record totals. was of 25 at the more typical coastallocation ing a Pigeon Guillemot until Apr. 5 off Ya- Captive Sandhill Cranes have been released of Waldport, Oreg. (R&JK, fide EE). quina Head, Oreg. (CM et al., fide EE) A at Pitt Meadows to augment the frail breed- Horned Puffin appeared off Smith I., n.w of lng population there. A Common Gallinule SoAo Whidbey I., May 30 (J&SVN, PCa). This lo- photographed at Iona I., B.C., remained cation is very near the Protection I. site fre- there May 26-June 3 for a first Regional re- Black-necked Stilts invaded in unprece- quented the past 2 summers. cord (•BK, •WW et al.). dented numbers. There were six at Brownsville, near Corvallis, Oreg., Apr. OWLS THROUGH WOODPECKERS-- SHOREBIRDS--Territorial Black Oyster- 15 (fide CW), then 11 were found at Fin- The last Snowy Owl sightingswere of a single catcherson DungenessSpit, Wash. (D&SS), ley N.W.R., Apr. 18-23 (DP, TB1, fide at DungenessSpit Mar. 21 (BMc, fide DS), Chuckanut Bay near Bellingham, Wash. EE), and three found their way to Med- four in Delta, B.C., Mar. 28 (AG, fide WW), (GG, fide DV & TW), and in LighthouseP., ford Apr. 18 (MPa, fide MMo) and Ash- and one at Iona I., Apr. 12 (BK, fide WW) W Vancouver, B.C. (WW), may mark a land Apr. 26 (OSw, VZ, MMo). Two ap- SingleBarred Owls spentthe springat 2 loca- range expansionin this area. The Blue-listed peared on the Nisqually N.W.R., Wash., tions near Victoria (fide VG), and possiblyin Snowy Plover is holding on. One was in- Apr. 17 (JS1,fide TBo) for only the se- Stanley P., Vancouver, B.C. (fide WW) A cubating at Newport, Oreg., Apr. 4 (OSw, cond record for w. Washington. Three pair was seenoften in Discovery P., in Seattle FR, DFi, fide EE). Eleven pair nested on came to Reifel Ref., in s.w.B.C., where (m.ob.), and a possibleyoung bird was found Leadbetter Pt., Wash., in late May. This suc- they remained Apr. 21-May 4 (•WW et there May 30 (J&MW). Another Barred Owl cess was attributed to the strict beach closures al.) for the fourth Provincial record. At was rescuedfrom tangled fishing line at Nolte imposedon their behalf (RWi). One pair was least 24 individuals were involved. The S.P., King Co., Wash., Mar. 2 (fide TBo) at the species' n. outpost at Ocean Shores 1977 invasion of Black-necked Stilts into SpottedOwls remainedelusive. D&SS report- Apr. 19-May 2 (G&WH; CB,fideTBo). Eight e. Washington resulted in persistent ed none found on 9 trips this spring into the Am. Golden Plover, rare in spring, were breeding colonies. That movement was n. edge of the Olympic N.P., although the noted at 4 locations, Apr. 26-May 30. Two correlated with extreme drought condi- U.S.F.S. has "recorded a fair number" on Long-billed Curlews Apr. 19 at Coos Bay, tions w. of the Rocky Mts., earlier that the Park's periphery(fide D&SS). The Long- Oreg. (AMc), was the solereport. An Upland year (Rohwer et al., Murrelet 60:67-71, eared Owls that wintered at Sea I., B.C., were Sandpiper May 31 on a stretch of lawn at 1979). last seenthere Mar. 15 (fide WW). Lightning L., Manning P.P., B.C., high in Black Swifts checkedin early, with singles the Cascades,was definitely displaced(WS). noted May 3 along the Umpqua R., Oreg Oregon observersreported 18 Solitary Sand- American Avocets were likewise more nu- (MHu, MSa, fide CW) and near Victoria pipers, including seven at Gaston, w. of merous than usual, with eight individuals re- (BHa, fide VG), and another May 8 over Ta- Portland, Apr. 26-27 (JGa, fide HN), and ported from 4 locations. Two were on the toosh I., Wash. (BP). Vaux's Swifts were one very late bird May 28 at Eugene (SHi, Nisqually N.W.R., Apr. 17-20 (JS1, BHT, seen first in Corvallis Apr. 14 (EE), with fide AC). The Spotted Redshankat Reifel I., SHr), one-two at DungenessApr. 27 and many over Portland Apr. 17 (MHo, fide B C. (•WW, •RC, •DK) stayedwith a flock May 17-18 (WS), and four were at Iona I., HN). Two were along the N. fork of the Sno- of Greater Yellowlegsgenerally far out on the and Reifel I., May 20-24 (ST, BK et aL, fide qualmie R., Wash., Apr. 25 (EH) and 48 tide flats until Apr. I (RF), at which time it WW). were noted at Saanich and Metchosin, V I, had molted into partial breeding plumage. May I (BHa, LR, fide VG). On May 6, 1000 Red Knots refueled in s.w. Washington as JAEGERS THROUGH PUFFINS--Four were at a Corvallis chimney roost (P&KC, usual, with 400 on Bottle Beach, e. of West- Pomarine Jaegers Apr. 24 in Hecate Strait DM, fide EE) and a large flock plugged a port, Apr. 24 (G&WH), an early date. The n.e. of Sandspit, Queen Charlotte I., fur- housechimney in portland (MU, fide HN) 275 near Westport May 10 (BHT), and the nished an early date for so far n. and consti- 550 on Leadbetter Pt., May 13 (RWi) marked tuted the only report received(MiS,fide VG). A Black-chinned Hummingbird was re- the usual peak. The high count in Oregon was Parasitic Jaegers were noted only at Grays ported at a feeder in N. Bend on the s. Ore- the 15 at Tillamook May 10 (LP, fide HN). Harbor May 5-10 (TW, EH). The five Glau- gon coastMar. 28 (AMc), and two were there The single at Reifel I., Apr. 20 (MPr, fide cous Gull reports matched last year's total. Apr. 21-24 (EW, fide AMc). One presentfor WW) was the only British Columbia report. The first Bonaparte's Gulls returned to Clo- 3 weeksin April at Ashland, Oreg. (D&MN, Most W. Sandpipers passed through Apr. ver Pt., Victoria, Mar. 24 (RS, fide VG), and fide MMo), was closerto the species'normal 12-May 10, with high counts of 30,000 on to Iona I., Apr. I (fide WW). Peak counts of breeding range. The first nest of the Anna's Roberts Bank, w. of Ladner, B.C., Apr. 19 2000 were made at Active Pass Apr. 29 Hummingbird in Oregon has been located at (DA1, BK, fide WW) and 100,000 Apr. 26 at (J&RS, fide VG) and on the lower Fraser R., last, in Portland. The nest held two young Bowerman Basin on Grays Harbor (KBn et May 9 (BK, WW). Smaller numbers contin- Mar. 30 (JMo, fide HN), and they fledged al ). The only SemipalmatedSandpipers this ued past Victoria throughout May. Seattle's Apr. 18 (m.ob., ph., OSc). Fifty Allen's spring were seven-ten individuals on Iona I., Green L., had hosted 100+ on the early date Hummingbirds were counted Mar. 21-22 May 10-28 (BK, D J, WW). The usual few of Mar. 14. This built to 500 Mar. 18-25, and from the California border n. to the Pistol Balrd's and Pectoral sandpipers were sighted. declined sharply thereafter (EH). With the R., with six at Arizona Beach the northern- Baird's were at 4 locations Apr. 12-29 with a flock Mar. 18-24 were one-two ad. Little most (TC, JGi, TM, fide HN). No Rufous high count of eight, and Pectorals were at 4 Gulls (E&NH, m.ob.) for only the third Re- Hummingbirds were noted there, but they locations Apr. 29-May 24 with a peak count gional spring record. Another ad. Little Gull were common at Coos Bay, 50 min. Acr of six. was in Tacoma, Wash., Mar. 25 (CC). Calliope Hummingbird was at a Poulsbo, The Short-billed Dowitcher passagewas Common Tern migration was brief. The Wash., feeder May 11 (JoC). A freshly dead concentrated on salt water shores Apr. species passed May 2-17, with the 500 at Williamson's Sapsucker was found Mar 15 12-May 14, with a peak Apr. 19 of 200+ on Ocean ShoresMay 9 the peak count (EH). in Seattle(PN, *to U.W. Museum)for one of Boundary Bay, B.C. (BK, fide WW) and Early Caspian Terns were reported along the very few w. Washington records.

Volume 35, Number 5 855 stream P.P., V.I., Mar. 13 (EF, fide VG). records for this near species(JMa, EC, RWl, fide VG). A 9 Rusty Blackbird at Westham THRASHERS THROUGH WARBLERS 1., B.C., Mar. 21 ('[BK) provided a most unu- --A stray Sage Thrasher turned up at Tilla- sual spring report. mook Bay May 17 (DHo,fideHN). A Mock- Evening Grosbeaks exhibit an odd migra- ingbird built a nestat Medford, Oreg., during tory pattern, not yet adequately defined. May, but failed to find a mate (MMo). Three They appear in Seattle each year by the hun- other Mockingbirds were reported in Oregon, dreds within a few days of May I to feast on all in early March, and another was in Man- flowering ornamental maples. Reports from ning P.P., B.C., May 27 (RH, RWe, fide Oregon this spring suggestedan earlier influx WW) for the first record for the park. The there, after Apr. 10 at Corvallis (fide EE), robin's reputation as an early bird was upheld Apr. 18 at Portland (DFi), and Apr. 19 at View of 9 Anna's Hummingbird near nest, by a pair defending a newly fledged young Ashland (fide MMo). The question is where Mar. 11 near Seattle (MD). Varied Thrushes Muttnomah County, Ore., Apr. 4, 1981. do theselarge numbersof Evening Grosbeaks winter? Christmas Bird Count data indicate Photo/Owen Schmidt. were "very scarce" on s. V.I. (VG) and little noted elsewhere. Swainson's Thrushes at that it is not to the s. of our Region. Gaston, w. of Portland, Apr. 11 (JGa, fide Pine Siskins were reported in good num- FLYCATCHERS THROUGH DIPPER-- Hb0, on the U.B.C. campus in Vancouver bers throughout the Region. Red Crossbills The W. Kingbird rarely nestsn. of the Rogue Apr. 16 (JSm, fide WW), and at Salem Apr. nestedat Philomath, near Corvallis (R&JK, R. valley of s. Oregon. Twenty-two individu- 18 (TC) were several weeks early. The first fide EE), and at Eugene(JiC, fide EE). The als were noted this spring, Apr. 20-May 27, n. substantial nocturnal passagewas noted May species was reported as very scarce in w. and w. of the Rogue R., compared to ten in 8-12 over Corvallis and Portland (DI, Hb0. Washington (DS, BHT, EH), and as absent 1978, 15 in 1979, and nine in 1980. Black Western Bluebirds maintained their foothold. on s. V.I. (VG) and in the Vancouver, B.C., Phoebes were found nesting at a new loca- Three nests were found at Agate L., near area before May 31 (WW). tion near Central Point, Jackson Co., Oreg. Medford (MPa, fide MMo), 8 pairs were Vesper Sparrowsarrived at nestingsites in (MPa, OSw, fide MMo). Twelve individuals nesting by the end of April along the Cor- the Willamette Valley Apr. 7-18, and were and one nest were located along the coastal vallis bluebird trail (fide EE), and four pairs "abundant" s.w. of Tacoma, Wash., by strip from the California border n. to the plus one nest were found this spring on Ft. Apr. 19 (BHT). A Lark Sparrow, rare w. of Pistol R. (TC, JGi, OSc, DAn, fide HN). A Lewis, near Tacoma, Wash. (BHT). Some the Cascades,nested at Agate L., near Med- Say's Phoebe was observedMay 17 on Iona I. two dozen individuals were reported, but no ford, in early May (VZ,fide MMo). A Black- (J'BK, J'WW et al.). The first Hammond's nests, at various locations in the Victoria area throated Sparrow strayed to Medford May 20 Flycatcherswere noted Apr. 21 at Portland (fide VG). Two LoggerheadShrikes straggled (CR, fide HN) probably as an overshoot (RSm, fide HN), Apr. 25 at Reifel I., B.C. W of the Cascades. One was found Mar. 22 from the n.w. periphery of its range in the (GA, fide WW), and Apr. 26 at Sequim, Car- at Crescent Beach, s.c. of Vancouver, B.C. Mathcur basin of e. Oregon. Wintering nation, and lssaquah, Wash. (WS, ME, EH). ('[BK), and the other Mar. 27 at the Nisqually White-throated Sparrows were last seen at First arrival dates for W. Flycatchers were N.W.R., Wash. (HC, LK). Newport, Oreg., Apr. 18 (FSr, fide CW), at Apr. 15-19 in Seattle, and Saanich and Co- Fifteen Hutton's Vireos were counted Mar. Corvallis Apr. 26 (K&SL, fide EE), and at quitlam, B.C. Both specieswere widespread 8 on the monthly Discovery Park census, Eugene May 2 (TF, SG, fide CW). A few by the end of April. A singing •' Least Fly- Seattle, and a nest was under construction Lapland Longspurswere noted in passageat cateher at Pitt Lake, B.C., May 31 (WW) fur- there the same day (EH). Red-eyed Vireos Ocean Shores Apr. 19-May 2 (KBo) and at nished only the secondvalid Vancouver area had just arrived by the end of May, with two Seattle May 5-14 (ER, B&PE). The last Snow record. Very early W. Wood Peweeswere re- along the Coquitlam R., B.C. (WW) and one Bunting was at Delta, B.C., Mar. 28 (AG, ported at Mt. Erie, near Anacortes, Wash., at Sultan, Wash. (ME), all May 30. fide WW). Apr. 19 (SA, FSa) and in SeattleApr. 23 (JV, Oregon again attracted the vagrant warb- fide DHu). Otherwise arrival was in early lers for the Region. Two Black-and-white CITED OBSERVERS and ABBREVIA- May as is more typical. Warblers were well described. Single males TIONS, with sub-regional editors One Bank Swallow straggledthrough Seat- were at Cornelius, w. of Portland, Apr. 23 boldfaced.--Dave Aldcroft (DA1), David tle Apr. 24 (J'AR), and three were on Iona I., (GW et at., fide HN) and May 20 near Ash- Anderson (DAn), Harvey Anderson, Gerry May 21 (WW). A Rough-winged Swallow land ('[MMo et aL). A wave of Tennessee Ansett, Pete Arcese, Scott Atkinson, Carla Mar. 26 at Victoria (AMa, fide VG) was 2 Warblers hit the Portland area May 3-8, with Baugher, Kevin Bell (KBe), Tim Blount weeks ahead of the main influx. The first six individuals found in 5 days. Five were in (TB1), Thais Bock (TBo), Ken Brown (KBo), Barn Swallow was one Apr. I at Seattle (SA, Portland itself ('[PT, RSm, MHo et at., fide Ken Brunner (KBn), Wayne Campbell, GVV). The specieswas widespread within 2 HN), and was one 30 mi s. in Salem May 8 Richard Cannings, Jim Carlson (JiC), Joan weeks. Two Cliff Swallows Mar. 29 at Neha- (TB1, fide HN). There is but one previous Carson (JoC), Paul Cassidy (PCa), Chris leto meadows on the n. Oregon coast (JGi, spring record for either w. Washington or w. Chappell, Nathan Chappelt, Ed Coffin, Paul fide HN) were 2 weeksahead of the main in- Oregon, and most spring vagrants are found & Kathy Coleman, Alan Contreras, Tom flux. Two pairs of Purple Martins arrived at much later in the season. A Palm Warbler, Crabtree, Herbert Curl, Michael Donahue, Fern Ridge Res., w. of Eugene Apr. 9 (TL, scarcein spring, was closelystudied Apr. 4 at Francis Edwards, Mark Egger, Elzy Eltzroth, fide DFe), but the specieswas not noted in Newport, Oreg. (m.ob.), and another was Dick Erickson, Bob & Pat Evans, Dave Fehl- Washington until Apr. 24 when three pairs near Leadbetter Pt., Wash., Apr. 12 (DAI, ing (DFe), Tad Finnell, David Fix (DFi), were at nest boxes in Redmond (FE, fide KBe, JMc, fide WW). About 50 Townsend's Ethel Fogarty, Roger Foxall, GeorgeGarlich, DFe). Warblers were found at Corvallis Mar. 31 John Gatchett (JGa), Jeff Gilligan (JGi), A Clark's Nutcracker May 3 along the (EE). Farther n., about 40 were at Pitt L., Steve Gordon, Vie Goodwill, A1 Grass, Bill Rogue R., w. of Grants Pass,Oreg., was well B.C., Apr. 26 (MPr, fide WW). Black- Harrington-Tweit (BHT), Bob Hay (BHa), w. of the Cascade crest (fide HN). Bushtits throated Gray Warblers arrived in force on Steve Heinl (SHi), Steve Herman (SHr), were nest-building near Vancouver. B.C.. by the s. Oregon coast Apr. 11-12 (fide HN), Wendell Hoag (WHo), Keith Hobson, David Mar. 11 (MMc, VN, fide WW), near Seattle and in the Puget Sound, Victoria, and Van- Hoffman (DHo), Glen & Wanda Hoge by Mar. 14 (K&PM), and at Saanich by Mar. couver, B.C., area Apr. 15-19 (m.ob.). (G&WH), Beryl Holt (BHo), Mike Houck 26 (J&RS, fide VG). Two Wrentits n. of Cor- (MHo), Rick Howie, Nancy Hunn, Matt vallis were at the n. vanguard of the species' BOBOLINK THROUGH BUNTINGS-- Hunter (MHu), David Hutchinson (DHu), expanding Willamette Valley range (AS, fide Three cy Bobolinks were reported: one May David Irons, Dale Jensen, Brian Kautesk, lEE). White-breasted Nuthatches were noted 25 at lona I., B.C. (J'BK, RP), and one May Lois Killewich, Walter Kiryck, Anne Mar. 28 at the n. edge of their range near Ta- 26 on the U.W. campus in Seattle for the Knowles, Rick & Jan Krabbe, Doug Kragh, coma, Wash. (NC). Red-breasted Nuthatch third year in a row at this season(ER), and Kristi & Swede Larson, Bob Lucas, Tom numbers were considered low in s. Oregon one May 31 at Reifel I., B.C. (•'MPr, WK). A Lund, Jo MacGregor (JMa), Alan MacLeod (fide MMo & AMc) and on s. V.l. (VG). Dip- N. (Baltimore) Oriole May 30-June 2 at Saa- (AMa), Chris Marsh, Debbie Martin, Karen pers were constructingan early nest in Gold- nich, VA., supplied one of very few Regional Mattocks, Bob McCormack (BMc), Mar-

856 AmericanBirds, September1981 jorie McFeat (MMc), Alan McGie (AMc), Saul (SSa), Martha Sawyer (MSa), Owen Varekamp, Terry Wahl, Glenn Walthall, John McMahon (JMc), Brien Meilleur Schmidt (OSc), Fred Sharp (FSa), Mark ClariceWatson, Robin Weber (RWe), Wayne (BMe), Marjorie Moore (MMo), Joe Shepard (MaS), Michael Shepard (MiS), Weber, Ralph Widrig (RWi), Ray Williams Morawski (JMo), Terry Morgan, Pain Negri, Floyd Shrock (FSr), Aaron Skirvin, John (RWI), John & Marilyn Wingfield, E. Wisti, Harry Nehls, Verna Newson, Don & Mar- Slipp (JSI), Eugene Smirnov, Dory &Stan Vince Zauskey, (t) written description on jorie Newson, Mike Paczolt (MPa), Bob Smith (D&SS), Jamie Smith (JSm), Mark file; S.J.C.R.-South jetty of the Columbia Paine, Dick Palmer, Leonard Paul, Roy Smith (MSm), Richard Smith (RSm), Steve R., Oreg.; V.1.-Vancouver I.-- EUGENE S. Phillips, Michael Price (MPr), Fred Ramsey, Summers(SSu), Wally Sumner, Otis Swisher HUNN, 1816 N. 57th St., Seattle, Wash. Ellen Ratoosh, Alan Richards, Robyn Ricks, (OSw), Sharon Trefrey, Peter Turnbull, Mike 98103, and PHILIP W. MATTOCKS, JR., Craig Roberts, Leila Roberts, Wilma Robin- Uhtoff, Doris Vanderway, Jan & Sally Van Dept. of Zoology, Univ. of Washington, son, Joy & Ron Satterfield (J&RS}, Susan Neil (J&SVN), Gus Van Vliet (GVV), John Seattle, Wash. 98195.

MIDDLE PACIFIC COAST Ruby-crownedKinglet, Yellow-rumped(Au- Alamo (JRi); Northern Oriole March 20, REGION dubon's) Warbler, Lincoln Sparrow) and Sonoma County (DEI); Western Tanager May 28-29 (mostly Western Wood Pewee). April 3, Santa Clara County (DH); Black- /Jules Evens and Ron LeVa!iey On the north coast, a "massive fallout" of headed Grosbeak April 8, Marin County western migrants (Western Flycatcher, Or- (IT); Lazuli Bunting April 17, Monterey ange-erownedand Wilson's Warblers) de- County (DRo); GrasshopperSparrow April The warm, mild winter weather continued scendedon CrescentCity May 8 (RAE, GSL, 1, Pt. Reyes(JE); Chipping Sparrow March into the spring season,but except for com- GS). Spring migration is most apparent 28, Sonoma County (DEI). Extremely early ments about the slightly less than normal amidst the moist oak canyons of the inner- dates are in italics. rainfall, most observers from the interior coast range where transients can depend on All observations from F.I. and Palomarin seemed not to have noticed the weather. cyclical insect emergence.Large concentra- should be credited to Point Reyes Bird Ob- Along the coast, ocean waters began the tions of migrants were encounteredin such servatory.A dagger(t) meansdocumentation period 1-2øC above average but due to the habitat at Mix Canyon, Solano County, May is on file with the editors. onset of northwest winds and the associated 3 (TBe), Mt. Burdell, Marin County, May 9 upwelling, ocean waters cooled rapidly until (IT) and Harbin Springs, Lake County, May LOONS THROUGH PELICANS--A con- late April and May found them 1-2øC below 12 (CB). Somewhat earlier were large num- centration of 40 Com. Loons on L. Almanor, average. These northwest winds occur annu- bers of Nashville, Hermit, Townsend's and Plumas Co., Apr. 12 (DAA) was at the nor- ally along our coastline, generatingthe very Black-throated Gray warblers in a narrow mal peak of spring migration for an inland important mixing of ocean waters that brings yellow pine belt on the east side of Mt. Ham- locality. Common Loons formerly bred in the nutrients to the surface. This year thesewinds ilton April 24 (CB, DH). Arrival and depar- n.w. corner of the Region, but their status appeared a month earlier than normal. As a ture dates were closely monitored on the presentlyis unclear. Seventy-twoRed-necked result of this influx of nutrients, prey avail- coast, in the Central Valley (hereafter, C.V.), Grebes Mar. 11 were concentrated in the ability around Southeast Farallon Island the Sutter Buttes(WA) and at a few selectlo- sameMarin County coastalarea where large (hereafter, F.I.) increased in mid-May and cations in the Sierra (DAA). For comments numberswere detectedduring fall migration the breeding seabirdsresponded with heavy on the effects of suchclose scrutiny seethe in- (JE). A Red-necked Grebe at Eagle Lake, egg-laying in mid-May (CSt). troductory remarks in last spring's report Lassen Co., Mar. 15 (DE) was unusual, but The northwest winds and associated clear (AB 34:810). most of our inland recordshave come during skies were blamed for the lack of landbird mi- Early arrival dates of selectedkey species: migration. The relative distribution of the grants along the central coast and on F.I., Common Nighthawk May 25, Lake Almanor light and dark phasesof W. Grebes in our Re- where "it may have beenthe slowestMay yet (DAA); Vaux's Swift March 31, Del Norte gion are being elucidated; observersare en- experiencedby Pt. Reyes Bird Observatory County (BED); Western Kingbird March 28, couragedto continue reporting sightingsand (hereafter, P.R.B.O.) personnel" (BBo). The Tulare County (RHG); Ash-throated Fly- ratios of these two forms. only waves at F.I., were Apr. 14-19 (mostly catcher March 23, Marin County (DS); West- A Laysan Albatross at the Cordelle Banks Mar. 23 (BDP) and one off of Humboldt Bay o E G o N •' MarinernWood CountyPewee April(DS); 9, May 30 (J. Sterling, S.W. Harris) were at lo- i Olive-sidedFlycatcher calitieswhere they occur with somepredicta- April 14, Siskiyou County bility. Flesh-footed Shearwaters are rarer in • BEDS (RLeV); Bank Swallow spring than in fall, therefore one at Cordelle ßMt. •Altu• March 17, San Francisco Banks Mar. 23 (BDP) and one seen from Pt. N E V. (JRi);Swainson's Thrush Pinos Mar. 27 (DRo) were of specialinterest. April 17, Pt. Reyes (RS); A Manx Shearwaterflying N past PigeonPt., Solitary Vireo April 2, Apr. 30 (PJM) was the only report this Marin County (IT); spring. A tantalizing report of Solander's •a Warbling Vireo March Petrels (Pterodroma solanderO was received •lr 20, Colusa (WA); Yellow from an oceanographicvessel offshore from Warbler April 5, Marin our Region (R.L. Pitman). We are awaiting County (DS); Black- further details of these sightings after the throated Gray Warbler return of the ship to land. A Leach's Storm- April 1, Marin County Petrel was heard in the early morning of May (DS, IT); Hermit Warbler 2 at Pt. St. George by an observer very April 13, Siskiyou County familiar with its calls (GSL). This speciesis Son (RLeV); MacGillivray's extremely unusual within 15 mi of shore dur- Warbler April 13, Madera ing the daylight hours despiteits presenceat County (DBr); Yellow- nesting sites on islands as close as 100 yds breasted Chat April 21, from shore during the night! Trinity County (RLeV); White Pelicans lingered around San Fran- Wilson's Warbler March cisco (hereafter, S.F.) Bay later than usual; 20, Pt. Reyes(DS); Hood- late May records include 38 in South S.F. Bay ea•- ed Oriole March 21, May 28 (RWL), 50 at the Vallejo Salt Ponds

Volume 35, Number 5 857 on the same day (B&HK), and 70 at Coyote burn StablhzatlonPonds (BBa) with 4 clutch- their healthy condition, nearly all observers Hills Regional P., May 29 (CSw). Brown Pel- es totahng 37 chicks. The first Sonoma Coun- report good news for this species.Prairie Fal- icans arrived during May in averagenumbers ty breeding record of Pintail was a hen with cons are not normally consideredmigratory, but one imm. at Hunter Rock, CrescentCity, five young May 16 at the Lakeville Hwy. yet fall and winter reports outnumberspring Del Norte Co., Mar. 21 (GSL, RAE et al.) Sewage Ponds near Petaluma (DE). Blue- and summer reports by a ratio of about 4:1 in was very early for such a northern locality. winged Teal were well reported with 55 + in- our Region, more than would be accounted dividuals found in nearly every county in the for by simple dispersal of juv. birds. Pere- HERONS--Green Herons seem to be in- Region. Two very late Eur. Wigeon were at grine Falconswere well reportedfrom coastal creasing in the Mendota W.M.A., Fresno Lower Klamath N.W.R., May 9 (KVV, RE, Marin County but one observer(JE) still does Co, as a result of the planting of willow and MRo). Two different Blue-winged X Cin- not think that they are nesting there. Else- cottonwood trees by the Calif. Dept. of Fish namon Teal hybrids were well described,one where, an immature was in South S.F. Bay and Game (RH), but the increaseon the re- from Merced N.W.R., Mar. 9 (RB) and one May 28 (fide RWL), a rather late sightingfor fuge and in suburban areas around Fresno from the Arcata Marsh, Humboldt Co., Apr. that locality. Most of our Regional Merlins may also have been owing to lack of water in 9 (RLeV, LD et al.). had left the area by early to mid-April but many of this species'normal haunts. The on- Redheads continue to nest at the Wood- one near the mouth of the Smith R., Del ly concentration of Cattle Egrets reported land Sugar Ponds, Yolo Co., despitemassive Notre Co., May 18 (MMo) was very late. was of 11 in the Arcata Bottoms May 2 habitat destruction in the surrounding wet- Blue Grouse were reported from 10 differ- (RAE, RLeV). Elsewhere,a singleindividual lands; five pairs were there May 26 (TBe). ent localities in our Region, more than ever in Novato, Marin Co., May 8 (fide DS) pro- Large numbersof Scaupgathered at Doolittle before. Particularly interestingwere 3 locali- vlded a late spring record and another at Pond, Alameda Co., prior to migration; 1315 ties in Sonoma County near the s. limit of this Lower Klamath N.W.R., May 9 (KVV, RE, Greater Scaup were there Apr. 5 and 4000 species' coastal range; six along Rockpile MRo) was in an area from which there are scaup sp. were there Apr. 20 (ER). This is a Rd., Apr. 4 (BDP, JP, LCB), three along very few records. Great Egrets still seemto be favored roosting locality during windy wea- Thompson Ridge w. of Cloverdale Apr. 4 increasingin the n. Sacramento Valley (SAL, ther. A Barrow's Goldeneye at Deer Cr. Mea- (BDP, JP, LCB) and one near Cazadero Apr BED) A high count of 64 at L. Talawa, Del dows, Tehama Co., May 2 was "quite unusu- 26 (DE). Ruffed Grouse were found n. of Norte Co., Mar. 30 (BED) was notable and al" (SAL). Many of last winter's Oldsquaws Somes Bar, Siskiyou Co., Apr. 7 & 13 parallels the presenceof early spring concen- were found this spring, the largestconcentra- (RLeV), near Dry L., Del Norte Co., Apr. 17 tranons n. of our Region in coastal Oregon. tion was of four at Tiburon, Marin Co., Mar. (TBr, D. McClung), and near Ironsides Mt , A Snowy Egret at L. Almanor, Plumas Co., 5-10 (BL). Two-three Oldsquaws at Moss Trinity Co., Apr. 21 (RLeV). The Sage Apr 24 was possibly a trans-Sierran migrant Landing were seen by m.ob.; there were last Grouse lek at Schaeffer Mt., LassenCo., had (DAA). This speciesagain failed to nest at recorded on the late date of May 9 (DRo). A 12 grouse at it Mar. 14 (BED) & 29 (JML) Gray Lodge W.M.A., Butte Co. (BED); the migrant gathering of 350 Black Scotersnear These are the same numbers reported last last year of successfulnesting there was 1975. Fort Funston, San Francisco Co., May 23 year but many fewer than the numbersduring The same story is true of Black-crowned (DM) was an impressivenumber for our Re- the early 1970swhen 40-50 were present. Night Herons at Gray Lodge W.M.A. (BED). gion. Red-breastedMergansers appeared in- Sandhill Cranes had mostly departed win- Least Bitterns returned to breeding sites at land slightly more than usual, two were at tering areas in the C.V., by mid-March so a Lava Lakes Nature Center, Siskiyou Co., by Eagle L., Lassen Co., Mar. 15-22 (DE, "Lesser" Sandhill at Kesterson N.W.R, Apr 17 (RE, MRo). A Mar. 7 sightingat L. OKH), sevenwere at Copco L., SiskiyouCo., Merced Co., May 28 (LR) was unexpected.A Merced, Golden Gate P., was the first S.F. Mar. 11 (RE, MRo), and two were at Lost "Greater" Sandhill Crane was on a nest in record since 1925 (DM). Twenty-four White- Lake P., Fresno Co., Mar. 7 (KH, BW). Hager Basin, Modoc Co., May 13 (BED) faced Ibises at Mendota W.M.A., Fresno where such activity is to be expected.In last Co, through the period raised hopes for pos- RAPTORS THROUGH RAILS--Turkey year's spring report the questionwas askedif sible breedingthere (RH, JB). Vultures, absent from most of the n. part of Black Rails were not really more common the Region in winter, returned to SomesBar, than their "rare" statusindicates. Apparent- WATERFOWL--Swans and geese appar- SiskiyouCo., Mar. 5 (RLeV) and L. Almanor ly DE answered the question by finding at ently departed their wintering areas earlier Mar. 22 (DAA). The Region's third Missis- least 65 calling territorial Black Rails at the than usual; all wintering geese were gone sippi Kite record was of an immature photo- Port Chicago Marsh, Contra Costa Co., this from Gray Lodge by Mar. 17 (BED). The en- graphed May 31 at Mono Lake County P. spring, and estimatinga population of 150+ dangered Aleutian race of the Canada Goose (MM). This was possiblythe same individual at that locality! Elsewhere,two were at Bene- seems to be growing in numbers. A high seenin Death Valley just prior to this sighting cia S.P., Solano Co., Mar. 17, two were in count of 1932 at L. Talawa, Del Norte Co. (see Southern Pacific Coast Region). Deter- Hudeman Slough, SonomaCo., Apr. 26 and (SU) was encouraging.The peak number of mining the migration periods of the two one was near the Petaluma R. mouth, Brant at Drake's Estero this spring was 2272 smaller accipitersis difficult owing to the fact Sonoma Co., May 16 (all DE). An Am. Coot Apr 17 (JE). A sub-adult Emperor Goose at that a few remain in the Region as nesters. found its way to F.I., May 12; there are few Lower Klamath N.W.R., Mar. 15 (N. Clark, The last Sharp-shinnedHawks reportedfrom spring records. RE, MRo) produced our first spring record coastal Marin County were in Olema Valley since 1978. Although this speciesis slightly Apr. 22 (JE) and at Palomarin Ranch Apr. 26 SHOREBIRDS--Spring arrival of Black- more common inland than on the coast, most (P.R.B.O.), but sightings in Novato in in- necked Stilts to breeding grounds were Mar interior records are from October-November. terior Marin County s. of known nesting 14, Creighton Ranch Preserve, Tulare Co A report of 12 "Blue" Geese with 100,000 areas continued until May 9 (SC). Cooper's (KL), Mar. 19 Gnoss Field, Marin Co. (DS, Snow and Ross' geeseat Twelake N.W.R., Hawks departedPalomarin by May 13 except SCa), and Apr. 5 Honey L., Lassen Co Slsklyou Co., Mar. 7 was intriguing (RE, for an immature present the last 2 weeks of (DAA). Humboldt County was treated to its MRo). These birds are studied closely and May (P.R.B.O.). Swainson's Hawks were re- 3rd record for Black-necked Stilt by an indi- identified by plumage and bill characteristics ported in normal numbers from most of the vidual present around Arcata Mar.-17-mld as eight "Snow", three "hybrids" and one traditional interior sites, but observers in April (J. Sterling, RAE, LD, RLeV). Arrival Ross' A Ross' Goose at L. Talawa Apr. Butte Valley, SiskiyouCo., suggestthat they dates of Am. Avocets on breeding grounds 24-29 (RAE) established one of the few Del may be increasingthere (RE, MRo). Both were the same as the Black-necked Stilts in Norte County records.The samebird was ap- Golden and Bald eagleswere reported in av- Tulare and Marin cos., but they didn't arrive parently in the Smith R. bottoms May 2 erage numbers at normal localities, which is until Apr. 21 at Honey L. (DAA). Snowy (TM) another way of saying that no discernible Plovers were reported nesting at L. Talawa, This spring brought the first Regional re- trends are evident from the American Birds Del Norte Co., May 27 (GSL, RAE), Afio cordssince 1978 of Fulvous Whistling Duck. reports in our Region. Adult 9 Marsh Hawks Nuevo, San Mateo Co., May 27 (PJM), A pair was at the Orange Cove SewagePond, returned to coastal Marin County by Mar. 10 Coyote Hills, Alameda Co., in May (PJM), Fresno Co., Apr. 24 (RGH) and a single bird (JE). It seemsthat much could be learned if Hayward Regional Shoreline, Alameda Co, wasat Mendota W.M.A., Apr. 28 (CP). Mal- observers recorded the age and sex of all Apr. 27, and Kesterson N.W.R., Merced lards were reported enjoying their most suc- Marsh Hawks throughout the year. The Co., June 4 (LR). At least eight Am. Golden cessfulbreeding season in 6 years at the Au- Ospreypopulations in the Region continuein Plovers remained on Pt. Reyes until May 3

858 AmericanBirds, September 1981 (fide DS) Elsewhere, four were at Dillon Beach, Marin Co., Mar. 27 (DS) and one was With the California Gull colony's un- Western Siskiyou County includes n of L. Talawa, Del Norte Co., Apr. 29 certain future at Mono L., it is particular- within its boundaries the extensive wood- (RAE). ly exciting to report the establishmentof a lands of the Klamath and Salmon Mts, A major migratory movement of thou- breeding colony with 42 active nestsMay characterized by a mosaic of coniferous sandsof Marbled Godwits flying N along the 31 in s. S.F. Bay (M. Rigney,fide RWL). montane forest types and, at lower eleva- coast took place Apr. 16-19 at the Mad R. This is the first evidenceof nestingof this tions, mixed evergreen and broadleaved mouth, Humboldt Co. (LD, RLeV). Fifteen species west of the Sierra Nevada Mts., forests.While studyingthe distribution of Long-billed Curlews at L. Almanor, Plumas except for some eggs collected in 1910 in Spotted Owls in the area, S. Laymort en- Co., Mar. 20 established one of the few re- the "Sutter Basin" (Dawson 1927, Birds countered the following densitiesof some cords from that area (DAA). Lesser Yellow- of Calif.). This colony was apparently of the more nocturnal Strigiformes: Flam- legs were well reported along the coast with present in the summer of 1980 but was not mulated Owl, 23 locations, with the first 26+ individuals being detected(m.ob.), but investigateduntil this spring. Also of in- May 3; Spotted Owl, 50+ new territories the big shorebird news was this spring's inva- terest was a pair engaged in bill-tossing bringing the total to 180 +; the final total sion of Solitary Sandpipers. Over 24 were re- display at Pope Beach, S. Lake Tahoe, may exceed 260 pairs in w. Sisklyou ported from the following locations: Smith May 11 (HLC) as there are no known County alone; Saw-whet Owl, 43 loca- R bottoms, Del Norte Co., 13-15 individuals nesting areas near that locality. tions, in all habitats. In the same area, Apr. 16-May 2 (BED, RAE, GSL etal.); Ter- during the same time afield, only three wer Valley, Del Norte Co., one Apr. 28 Screech Owls, three Great Horned Owls (RAE); Klamath R. estuary one Apr. 28-29 noma County so the following CrescentCity, and one Pygmy Owl were heard. (GSL); Arcata Bottoms, Humboldt Co., two Del Norte Co., records are noteworthy: one May 2 (RAE, RLeV); Happy Camp, Siskiyou Apr. 17 (BED), three Apr. 24 (RAE) and one Co., one Apr. 18 (SAL, MRo, RE); Lava May 19 (GSL). In contrast, 50 Com. Terns in sightings;this speciesis clearly in trouble as a Lakes Nature Center, SiskiyouCo., one Apr. Crescent City May 17 was probably normal breedingspecies within the Region. The only 17 (RE, MRo); Yreka, Siskiyou Co., one (RAE). A Least Tern was well describedfrom Long-eared Owl report was of a successful Apr. 24 (RE, MRo); Mines Rd., Alameda Bodega Bay, Sonoma Co., Apr. 23 (?JH). breeding attempt on the San Joaquin Experi- Co., one Apr. 24-25 (JRi, BL); BelMarin They are rare n. of s. S.F. Bay. Elegant Terns mental Range (hereafter, S.J.E.R.), Madera Keys, Marin Co., one May 4 (JE); Los Va- moved into the Region somewhatearly with Co., where six young were discoveredMay 15 queros Reservoir Site, Contra Costa Co., one three at the Bay Bridge Toll Plaza, Alameda (DBr et al.). Short-eared Owls were also Apr. 7 (DSch, B. Richmond); Mendota Co., May 25 (KFC) and sevenat the Pajaro sparsewith only sevenreported. Single Saw- W M.A., Fresno Co., one Apr. 21 (JB). Soli- R. mouth May 28 (PJM, J&RW). Caspian whets were found in the Diablo Range at tary Sandpipersaveraged 4 recordsper spring Terns continued their early arrival at Region- Hall's Valley, Santa Clara Co., Apr. 26 (DH m recent years. A Wandering Tattler on levee al localities;most observersreported them up et al.), at Cazadero, Sonoma Co., Apr 26 rip-rap near the e. end of the Dumbarton to 2 weeksearlier than normal. By May 31 the (DE) and along upper Mill Cr., Tehama Co , Bridge, Alameda Co., Apr. 29 (PJM) was un- CaspianTern colonyin the S.F. Bay N.W.R., Apr. 17 (DAA); other reports were from usual so far inside S.F. Bay. Ruddy Turn- San Mateo Co., had 1000+ breeding pairs areas of known occurrence. stonesmay prove to be regular in spring at (M. Rigney, fide RWL). Black Terns were Poor-wills, reported in substantial num- Lower Klamath N.W.R., one was there May reported in lower than normal numbersin the bers, "arrived" early at Oroville, Butte Co, 16 (BED, MRo, RE). More unusual was an Woodland (TBe) and Yuba City (JH) breed- Mar. 14 (SAL), N. Butte, Sutter Co., Apr 6 individual at the n.e. shoreof Mono L., May ing areas. Two Black Skimmers were re- (WA) and near Happy Camp, Siskiyou Co, 21 (CSw). A Wilson's Phalarope, considered ported at Elkhorn Slough, Monterey Co., Apr. 18 (RE, MRo). Early and extremelyrare casual along the coast in spring, was at Ab- May 17 (fide WB). More details will be in- on the coast were two Lesser Nighthawks at bott's Lagoon , Marin Co., May 22 (DS). cluded in next seasoh'sreport. Bolinas Apr. 19 (Barbara Deuhl, Patsy Red Phalaropeswent unreportedthis spring. Cristaeuh) with one seen there again Apr 21 A Sanderling at Lower Klamath N.W.R., PIGEONS THROUGH GOATSUCKERS (CSw, DDeS, EG). Most coastal records are May 12 and three others there May 16 (SS, --Band-tailed Pigeons first returned to the n. from F.I., between mid-May and early July BED, MRo, RE) provided the only inland re- coast Mar. 20 (RAE) and were "fairly com- with a peak in early June. ports. Two well described Semipalmated mon" at CrescentCity by Apr. 1 (BED). In e. Sandpiperswere reported, one from the n.e. Humboldt/w. Trinity cos., they were rela- SWIFTS THROUGH WOODPECKERS shore of Mono L., May 21 (?CSw) and one tively scarcewhere they had been thought to --Migrating Black Swifts were encountered from the Emeryville Crescent, Alameda Co., be a common breeder (RLeV), and in the May 5-31 (m.ob.) which is normal. Vaux's May 24 (?SFB). This speciesis very rare in the foothills near Auburn, none was noted until Swift made an early passage with three at spring. Baird's Sandpipers were again detec- early May, which is unusual(BBa). Numbers High Prairie Cr., Del Norte Co., Mar 31 ted at Lower Klamath N.W.R., this spring increasedat Pt. Reyesin mid-May, apparent- (BED) and 40 at Mokelumne R., Lodi Apr 4 with four presentMar. 15 (S. Summers)and ly in responseto the Sambucus(elderberry) (BK); four at Millerton L., Fresno Co., Apr an unprecedented14 present Mar. 29 (RE, crop (JE). Along lower Mines Rd., Alameda 15 (KH) eclipsedthe previouss. C.V. arrival MRo). The only other report of this rare Co., Roadrunners are "still present despite date by 2 weeks (RH). Peak movement was spring migrant was one at Bolinas Lagoon, people playing tapes in the breeding area" noted at Arcata and the Mad R., May 18 Marin Co., Apr. 8 (fide DS). A Pectoral (AE). (RLeV). A vagrant Costa's Hummingbird Sandpiper, also quite rare in spring, was in Barn Owls were found breeding in "good visited San Rafael, Marin Co., Apr. 12-14 (I the Smith R. bottoms, Del Norte Co., May numbers" in e. Alameda County (AE), but Tait, K. Whiteside) coincidingwith the arri- 4-6 (RAE). on Pt. Reyes2 nestssuccessfully fledged only val of two males at Mines Rd. (KFC) At two young betweenthem (JE). In Lafayette, Montebello Ridge, Santa Clara Co., Selas- GULLS, TERNS--Western Gulls have be- Contra Costa Co., the speciesis "faltering" phorus hummingbirds were counted at the come regular visitors at the Martinez Yacht (LF). rate of 50-100/hr, Apr. 4; only two could be Harbor, Contra Costa Co., in the last few identified to species,and they proved to be years; 12 were present May 20 (LF). This Of 14 Pygmy Owl reports, eight were from Rufous (DH). At P.R.B.O.'s researchstation species is rarely reported this far into the inner-coastranges, 5 were in the low foot- at Palomarin, the first juv. Allen's Hum- S F.Bay. hills along the e. rim of the C.V., and one was mingbird was caught in the nets Apr 30, A Ring-billed Gull was on F.I., Mar. 3; this the aforementioned bird in w. Siskiyou nearly 2 months later than in 1980; numbers speciesis extremelyrare seawardof the im- County. Although consideredfairly common were low with a total of 21 juvenals netted as mediate coast. The Little Gull at the Stockton on the w. slopeof the Sierra, no reports from comparedto 82 in 1980. Although known to Sewage Ponds was apparently present that locale were received.Five previouslyun- wander upslope after breeding, 4700 ft near through May 31 (fide SFB). Heermann's known pairs of SpottedOwls in the Almanor Chester, Plumas Co., was a high elevation Gulls were apparentlyvisiting last year'snest District of Lassen N.F., brought the period for a singingAnna's Hummingbird Apr 11 site on Alcatraz I., in early May (fide CSw). total there to 7 pairs (DAA). Burrowing Owl (DAA). A Calliope Hummingbird visited Forster's Terns are rare in spring n. of So- numbers were disturbingly low with only 5 Drake's Beach P.R.N.S., May 21 (RS),

Volume35, Number5 859 coastal records are rare in the Region, clus- Del Norte Co, Apr 24 (RAE), CrescentCity from the coast are rare. The first report from tered toward late April-early May. May 9 (RAE, GSL) and FresnoApr. 30 (KH, the n. Great Basin was of sevenat Honey L, Acorn Woodpecker numbers were consid- JS). The 35 W. Flycatchers at Crescent City Mar. 29 (JML). One was netted at Palomann ered "bare bones" around Lafayette (LF); May 8 (RAE, GSL, GS) accompanieda mas- May 8 (BY, P.R.B.O.). becausethis speciesavoids the humid coastn. sivefall-out of other w. migrants (seeOrange- Late lingering Varied Thrushes were found of S F., one in the Terwer Valley, Del Norte crowned Warbler below). Early W. Wood at Plaskell Meadow, Glenn Co., May 2 Co, May 27 was out of place (GSL, RAE, Pewees at Burdell Mr., Marin Co., Apr. 9 & (KVV, KC) and Mt. Burdell, Marin Co., May LB) Lewis' Woodpecker is no longer found 14 (DS) were the earliestdates recorded in the 9 (SC). A Veery was seen at F.I., May 27 regularly at lower Mines Rd., where Starlings regional files, but may prove closeto average (?BBo, P.R.B.O.). This speciesis extremely have usurped nest holes (AE, HLC), but are for moist oak woodlands (DS). An average rare in California, with three other records still present in San Antonio Valley, Santa arrival date for the c. coastis more like Apr. (one for the Region) Oct. 12-Nov. 5. If ac- Clara Co. (AE). A "Red-naped" Sapsucker 19-20. An Olive-sided Flycatcher at Bean's ceptedby the California RecordsCommittee, (S v nuchalis) 10 mi w. of Happy Camp, Ridge, Siskiyou Co., Apr. 14 (RLeV) was this will constitutethe first springoccurrence Slskiyou Co., Apr. 14 (SAL, NC, RE, MRo) about 2 weeks early for the n. counties; else- Single coastal Mountain Bluebirds were at was most unusual w. of the Cascades. A where, arrival dates were fairly typical. The Montebello Open Space Reserve, San Mateo "Red-breasted" Sapsucker (S.v. ruber or Region's sixth Vermilion Flycatcher was at Co., Apr. 8 (DH) and L. Earl, Del Norte Co , daggettt) found F.I., Apr. 19 for one of very Clovis, Fresno Co., Apr. 16-17 (EL, fide Apr. 4 (DG). One e. of Hwy. 99, Madera few spring island records. Numbers of KH); this is the same location from which Co., Mar. 28 (JS) was late on the San Joa- Downy Woodpeckersseemed strong coastally there is an old undated specimen(McCaskie quin Valley floor (RH). Five migrant Towns- (JE, DM), but at Gray Lodge in the C.V., et al., 1979, Birds of Northern California). end's Solitaireswere found alongthe n. coast "there has been a marked decline in the last 8 Swallow arrival corresponded to the ex- Apr. 2-20 (BED, D. Scott et al.). A wave of years, although riparian habitat has increas- pected pattern. Bank Swallow colonies were 65 Ruby-crownedKinglets descended on F I, ed" (BED). Apparent migrant Downies were activeat Afio Nuevo (RS), Fort Funston, S.F. Apr. 15; the last migrants were on the coast at noted in Fresno: one was flying over with (JRi), Fall R. Mills, ShastaCo. (BED) and in Pt. Reyes Apr. 30 (DS), in the C.V., at Gray Violet-green Swallows Apr. 1 (KH) and one reducednumbers at Pajaro R., Monterey Co. Lodge May 8 (BED) and one very late indi- was "downtown" Apr. 23 (RH). Nuttall's (BE); previously unreported colonies were vidual at Lafayette May 15 (LF). Woodpeckerseems to be expandingits range found near King City, Monterey Co., Apr. 16 (coincident with a decline in Downies?): a pi- (DRo) and 5 min. of Alturas, Modoc Co., PIPITS THROUGH SHRIKES--Water oneer male was excavating in Menlo P., Apr. May 12 (BED). At Palomarin Cliff Swallows Pipits leave their wintering groundsby early 5 for the first spring record there (WB) and a were nesting later and in reduced numbers May, so one near Palo Alto May 31 (MR0 female at Olema Mar. 27 was slightly w. of compared to last year (P.R.B.O.). Purple was very late. Cedar Waxwingswere found in the normal range(JE). The only White-head- Martins were found nesting near Five strong numbers during April and May at ed Woodpecker report was of a heard bird at Brooks, P.R.N.S. (GH et al.), At Cobb Mr., areas of common occurrence, but ten at Horse Mr., Humboldt Co., May 2 where it is Lake Co. (JPM) and in reduced numbers at Crane Flat Lookout May 16 (TBr) was rare (RAE et al.). two traditional coastal locations s. ofS.F. unusual for the Yosemite Sierra. Of five N (BE). Sightings in Sacramento (BK, HK) Shrikes, during March, two were in coastal FLYCATCHERS THROUGH SWAL- along Skyline Dr., San Mateo Co., (DH) sug- Del Norte (RAE et al.), one was near Or- LOWS-Western Kingbird is unusual along gested nesting at those locations as well. leans, Humboldt Co. (RLeV), one was in the c coast in spring, becoming more com- Sierraville, Sierra Co., and the last was at mon farther n. Of 32 coastal sightings Apr. CORVIDS THROUGH NUTHATCHES Honey L., Mar. 21 (DAA). A Loggerhead l 1-June 4 (m.ob.), 22 were in Del Norte --Scrub Jay flocks are occasionallynoted in Shrike was at the Klamath R. mouth Mar. 30 County with a high of sevenat Klamath Apr. autumn and assumed to be normal down- (BED et al.), but more unusual was a very 27 (RAE). Curiously, peak movement along slope movements or a response to concen- late one May 5 at Pt. Saint George (Jim the c coast was later, May 3-May 10. Two trated acorn crops. Spring flocks are most Rooney). montane records are noteworthy, both at unusual, so the following localized move- 4500 ft; one at L. Almanor May 6 (DAA), ments were of interest: 60 at Paynes Cr., WARBLERS--Six Black-and-white Warb- one along Hwy. 32, Tehama Co., May 23 Tehama Co., Apr. 28 (KVV, KC), 80 at lers were reported from Mar. 28-May 30, five (KVV). Cassin's Kingbird returned to Shirtail Horseback Ridge, 8.5 mi s. of Paynes Cr. from the coast, one e. of the Sierran divide at Canyon, Monterey Co., Mar. 22 (DRo); this Apr. 29 (DAA), 47 moving NW along the w. Lundy Canyon near Mono L. (MM). Of is the only report received of this rare shore of L. Almanor Apr. 30 (DAA). There- sevenTennessee Warblers, five were migrants breeder. A single Scissor-tailedFlycatcher at after, there were only two sightings of indi- along the c. coast Apr. 30-May 17; one at Lafayette May 3 (LF) was early, the majority viduals in the L. Almanor area (DAA). A Golden Gate P., S.F., Apr. 3 (NB) may have of records being in July. The E. Phoebe, pre- "migrant" Scrub Jay was at Gold Bluff wintered and one was at CrescentCity May 8 sent m Monterey since Dec. 29, was last seen Beach, Humboldt, Co., May 18 (GS). Most with 350 Orange-crowned Warblers (RAE, Mar 28 (AM, EM); although commonly vagrant Yellow-billed Magpie recordsare in GSL, GS). Although there were several thought to be a "fall bird", this specieshas winter, but one at Bodega Bay, Sonoma Co., earlier reports (most of lingering winterers), been detected with increasing frequency late May 31 was w. of its normal range eating a Nashville Warblers arrived in synchronyApr February-early April in recent years. Black dead skunk (SC). In Carmichael, 79 was a 14 at a wide range of locations(m.ob.). The Phoebes are very local in the mountains; one high concentration(JML). The only Pifi6n Lucy's Warbler, present in Pacific Grove along the N. Fork of the Feather R. at 4500 ft Jay report was of 25 s. of Honey L. (JML). since Dec. 30, was last seen Mar. 23 (DRo) m Chester May 23 was unusual for the Red-breasted Nuthatches continue to be con- Of four N. Parulas May 9-June 1, two were Almanor area (DAA). Only four migrant spicuouslyabsent; of two reported, one was at F.I., May 29-June 1, one was at Lincoln Willow Flycatcherswere reported May 21-22: at Palomarin May 26 and one was along Sky- P., S.F., May 17 (JM etal.), one was at An- one at Gray Lodge N.W.R. (BED), two just line Rd., San Mateo Co., May 30-31 (DH et nadel S.P., Sonoma Co., May 9 (R. Aijala, n of Klamath (GSL, RAE), one at S.J.E.R., al.). fide Gull). Quite early singleYellow Warblers Madera Co. (RH). The only report from a were at Olema Cr., Marin Co., Apr. 5 (DS) breeding location was of one bird at Hodg- DIPPER THROUGH WAXWINGS-- and farther n. at Happy Camp, SiskiyouCo, don Meadow, Yosemite May 29-30 (SFB). Ten + Dippers were along the N. Fork of the Apr. 17 (SAL). Encouraging numbers were Dusky Flycatcher was found to be a more American R., Apr. 24 (TBe). Canon Wren reported from Yosemite (SFB) and the n common than expectedtransient through the Wren avoids the n. humid coast belt, so Sierras (JH). A cy Cape May Warbler was oak woodland foothills of S.J.E.R. (1000 ft singles in the vicinity of the Klamath R. missing most of its tail-feathers at the Pt elev ) in May with birds recordedon 5 of 10 Mouth Apr. 5 (JGH), May 7-9 (GSL, LB, Reyes Lighthouse May 20 (DS) and another days afield (RH). The earliestDusky was one RAE) and May 17-21 (GSL, RAE) were odd; male was seen there May 25 (MG et al.). at China Camp, Monterey Co., Apr. 14 another at Bluff Cr. s.e. Del Norte Co., Apr. Townsend's Warbler migrants were re- (DRo) with all others from the n.w. counties 4 (BBb, JGH) was unusual. A Sage Thrasher, ported in strong numbers, especiallythrough May 7-20 (RAE, RLeV, GSL, GS). Migrant present in Salinas since late November, oak woodlands of the inner coast ranges Gray Flycatchers were at Smith R. bottoms, lingered until Mar. 22 (DRo); winter records (TBe, CB, DH, WB). At Gray Lodge

860 AmericanBirds, September1981 N W R, six May 7-8 was "many more than work along the n fork of the American R, BED), where four remained through the peri- usual,, (BED) and in the Sutter Buttesthe Yosemite and Sagehen Cr., w. of Truckee od (RAE). gatory peak May 5 was consistentwith previ- revealed "high numbers" of Brown-headed Two Black-throated Sparrows 4 mi n of ous years (WA). Townsend's wintered in w. Cowbirds at those locations (TBe). A 9 W. ShaverL., e. of the San Joaquin R., Apr 23 Slskiyou County (RLeV, SAL); one at Lost Tanager at Santa Cruz Mar. 8 (JLu) (SG) were unusual there on the w. slope of L. Park near Friant, Fresno Co., May 20 was wintered; one at Steven's Cr. County Park, the Sierra. One was at Kilgore Hills near late on the valley floor (KH) and the Region's Santa Clara Co., Apr. 3 (DH) was about 2 Yreka (where they have nested irregularly) last report. Hermit Warbler migration (mid- weeks early if it did not winter. Migration of May 24 (RAE) and a vagrant was at Gold April to mid-May) corresponded closely to W. Tanager through the Sutter Buttes Apr. Bluff Beach, Humboldt Co., May 18 (JGH, Townsend's migration; a single bird in Ter- 18-May 24 (WA) mirrors the pattern GS et al.). A slightly early Clay-colored Spar- wer Valley, Del Norte Co., Mar. 27 wintered throughout the Region. An adult o' Summer row at F.I., Apr. 29 was at the same location (RAE) and a female at Lost L. Park May 20 Tanager at Hastings Natural History Reser- as every other spring-summer record was late on the valley floor (KH). Hermit vation, upper Carmel Valley, Monterey Co., Brewer's Sparrow, a rare migrant w. of the Warbler migration (mid-April - mid-May) May 2+ (D. Good, B. Hastings et al.) was Sierran divide, was found coastally with corresponded closely to Townsend's migra- apparently of the e. race, rubra (fide Gull). singlesat Drake's Beach, P.R.N.S., May 10 tion; a single bird in Terwer Valley Mar. 27 (DTo) and F.I., May 27-30 (P.R.B.O.), and wintered (RAE) and a female at Lost Lake in the s. C.V. foothills at Lost L., Fresno P., May 20 was late on the valley floor (KH). FRINGILLIDS--A 9 Black-headed Gros- Co., Apr. 24 (RH, F.A.S.) and S.J E R, A o' Chestnut-sided Warbler was at Pt. Saint beak at Los Altos Mar. 17 through the end of Apr. 24 (DBr), May 5 (RH), and May 19 George May 28-29 (GSL, RAE, et al.), and a March (J&SL) was early coastally and may (DBr). More than a single Black-chmned male was singingat S.J.E.R., May 31 (tDBr). have wintered locally. Two o' Indigo Bunt- Sparrow was at Foresta, Yosemite N.P , May The last wintering Palm Warbler was on the ings were reported: one w. of Cazadero, So- 14 (KH, RH). This was one of very few n coast Apr. 25 (RAE, GSL, PR). The un- noma Co., May 25 (DB, PC) and one at F.I., records within park boundaries, although precedented number of inland records this May 26 (P.R.B.O.). Evening Grosbeakswere known to breed nearby. A single Black- winter was complementedby a singlePalm in generally conspicuous and at lower than chinned at Lava Beds, N.M., May 16 (JS, e Vallejo May 12 (G. Sears,fide Gull). Four usual elevations(m.ob.) with 350 Paynes Cr., LD, SH et al.) was rare there. Of three Har- Ovenbirds were along the c. coast with two at Tehama Co., Apr. 28 (KVV, KC) the high ris' Sparrow reports, singles at Honey L , F O., May 28, one at Mendoza Ranch, count. An influx into e. Humboldt/w. Trini- Mar. 22 (JLu) and Kerman, Fresno Co., Apr P R.N.S., May 25 (MG et al.) and one at Lin- ty County Apr. 23-May 31 + (RLeV) was well 16 (H&M Roup, fide RH) were lingering coln P., S.F., May 31 (NB). Also during the documented. A o' Purple Finch at Camp winterers; one at Arcata Apr. 28 & May 7 last week of May there was an Ovenbird in Richardson in the Tahoe Basin May 11 was (JGH) was a coastal vagrant. Hybrid White- ReedIcy, Fresno Co., found dead June 1 "unusual in being e. of the Sierran crest in crowned X Golden-crowned Sparrows are (RHG). Interior spring records of Ovenbird spring; vagrants into this Region, where rarely encountered, so two reports this period and N. Waterthrush are more common than cassinii breed, are usually found from mid- were most unusual: one at Lafayette Apr coastal records in s. California, however, to summer-fall" (HLC, G. Hall). Pine Siskin, 23-27 ('•LF) and one at Crescent City May 8 the n., coastal sightingspredominate. One N. usually rare in the Sutter Buttes, was encoun- (RAE, GSL, GS). Most Golden-crowned Waterthrush was singing in Inverness, Pt. tered there regularlyin April with a high of 40 Sparrows departed during late April (normal) Reyes May 25 (RS). A singing Kentucky Apr. 4 (WB); three at S.J.E.R., May 22 were with the last report of three on Mr. Diablo Warbler in Lincoln P., S.F., May 16 (AH, low (1000 ft) for that date (RH). Lawrence's May 15 (DS). Three White-throated Spar- m.ob.) provided the Region with its eighth Goldfinch was well reported, especiallyin the rows were reported Apr. 23-30 from various record (15th for California) six of which have inner coastranges from Monterey up through locations, and another was singing at Bear been on F.I., May 1l-July 3 with another in the Diablo Range (m.ob.) and in the southern Valley, P.R.N.S., May 9 (R. Sinchak & K Eureka Nov. 21-23, 1972. Numbers of Mac- C.V., where "the number was greater than Hinsu, fide Gull). Most Fox Sparrows leave Gfilivray's Warblers were consideredgeneral- normal with most records in the foothills, the coast in late April; singlesat Arcata May ly low (compared to last year) at Pt. Reyes some as high as 6000 ft at Dinkey Cr." (RH, 8 (GSL, RAE) and Pt. ReyesLighthouse May (JE) and along the American R. (TBe), how- KH). On the immediatecoast, small numbers 17 (JE) were stragglers. Coastal passageof ever five along Langley Hill Rd., San Mateo were clusteredin late May with sightingsat Lincoln's Sparrow peakedApr. 14 with 20 at Co., May 30-31 DH) were consideredgood Pt. Pinos and the Carmel R. mouth May 29 F.I.; late individuals were at the fish docks, numbers there. Common Yellowthroats re- (DRo) and two at Pt. Reyes May 30 (MG). P.R.N.S., May 28 ('•KFC) and near Palo turned to the n. coast (from which it retreats "Healthy numbers" of Red Crossbillscon- Alto May 31 (MRi, TRi). Of the Swamp in winter) by Mar. 29 (GSL, RAE, BED). A tinue to be found in the mountains from Yo- Sparrows that winter in Olema Marsh near c• Hooded Warbler at Western Mountain gas semite to Lassen(m.ob.), extending down in- Pt. Reyes, one remained until Apr. 27 (DS), station in Lee Vining was fueling-up on in- to Ponderosa Pine forests (TBe, SGr). The as late a date as has been reported for the Re- sects at a recently uncovered woodpile May only coastal reports were of six plus s. of Eu- gion; further field study may prove this to be 20-28 (C. Schwarz, tKH et al.). As with reka Apr. 28 (JGH), four at Pt. Reyes Apr. the normal date of departure. Ovenbird and N. Waterthrush most spring 16 (JE), two at Arcata Bottoms May 19 records from n. California are coastal, but s. (JGH) and sevenat MacKerricher S.P., Men- CORRIGENDA--AB 35 (March 1981) records predominate from the interior. Wil- docino Co., May 31 (JH). No Green-tailed lists some observer errors: the cuckoo at Pt sows Warbler migration peaked in early May Towhees were found around Fallen Leaf L., Reyes Sept. 8-14 (pg. 222) was sighted by with 25 at Mix Canyon, Solano Co., May 3 and the S. Tahoe area where the specieswas JLu, MW et al.; the observerwho reported (TBe) and 45 at Crescent City May 8 (GSL, formerly common (HLC). One at Chawana- large numbers of Corn. Flickers in the Fresno RAE, GS). Two Am. Redstarts were report- kee Flats (3000 ft) on the w. slope of the area was FRG (not RFG); the Bay-breasted ed, both imm. males: Drake's Beach, Sierra Apr. 23 was low (SG), however small Warbler at Mendoza Ranch, P.R.N.S , was P R.N.S., May 31 (JM et al.). and F.I., June numbers migrate through atypical habitat in well describedby BrB (not BB); Ron LeValley 1 spring (Gaines D., 1977, Birds of the Yosemi- was the waterbird editor and Jules Evens the te Sierra). One at Mt. Diablo May 6-10 was landbird editor, not the opposite. The ICTERIDS AND TANAGERS--Three unusual (M.A.D.S.). Quite rare in spring, a "Oregon" Junco mentioned in the summer Yellow-headed Blackbirds were found o' Lark Bunting was near the Pt. ReyesLight- 1980 report (,,lB 34:928) should be deleted coastally with singlesat Bolinas Apr. 3 (CSw, house Apr. 30 ('•DS, Laura Graffineus). A Subsequent information revealed that the EG), Arcata bottoms Apr. 28 (JHG) and Grasshopper Sparrow at Pt. Reyes Apr. 1 Roeding Park Zoo released a captive. Brew- Smith R. bottoms May 8 (RAE, GS, GSL). (JE) was the Region's earliest ever, but fur- er's Sparrow was not confirmed breeding at An imm. o' N. (Bullock's) Oriole at Santa ther field work may prove this close to the L.V.R.S., Contra Costa Co., as stated in AB Cruz Mar. 8 (JLu) probably wintered; other- normal arrival date along the coast if loca- 35:224. The sentence should read: "A 9 wise arrival dates were about average. The tions of known occurrenceare checked regu- Black-chinned Sparrow feeding a juvenal at S F. pair of Great-tailed Grackles was again larly. Vesper Sparrows were last seen at the L.V.R.S., Aug. 5 confirmed breeding there sightedApr. 5 (K. Hainebach) and the male Sutter ButtesApr. 5 (WA), the sameday one (RAE)". The Le Conte's Thrasher listed (,,lB was seen May 9 + O?deGull). Extensive field arrived on the n. coast at L. Earl (RAE, 34:929) in the addenda need not have been

Volume35, Number5 861 boldfaced. Subsequentinformation indicates Doerflinger, Art Edwards, Ray Ekstrom, Benjamin D. Parmeter, John Parmeter, that this speciesmaintains a small population Bruce Elliot, Doug Ellis, Richard A. Erick- Charles Peck, Elizabeth Pillsbury, Pt. Reyes in the Kettleman Hills extending n. to Pa- son, Jules Evens, Lynn Farrar, Cherry Bird Observatory, Herbert Pool, Paul Rail, noche Canyon, about 40 min. of Coalinga Franklin, Chuck Franklin, Fresno Audubon Larry Rauen, Bob Richmond, Jean Rich- (Jay Sheppard). Society, Gary Friedrichsen, R.H. Gersten- mond (JRi), Mike Rigney (MRi), Teresa berg, Geoff Geupel, Golden Gate Audubon Rigney (TRi), Mike Rippey (MRp), Hap Rit- ADDENDUM--A Red Crossbill was Society, Ed Good, Dick Goss, Steve Gran- ter, Don Roberson (DRo), Mike Robbins found dead beneath a tree in Davis, Yolo holm, Mike Green, Keith Hansen, Rob Han- (MRo), Elsie Roemer, Jim Rooney, Ha!lie Co., in the fall of 1980; the exact date is not sen, Start Harris, John G. Hewston, Kevin Roup (HRo), Mary Roup (MAR), Ron L. available (fide TBe). Hinsu (KHi), Joel Hornstein, David Houle, Ryno, Don Schmoldt (DSch), Gary George Hugenberg, Owen K. Hughes, Bill Schroeder(GSc), Dan Scott (DSc), Jeff Seay CONTRIBUTORS--Dan A. Airola, Wait Hurd, Betty Kimball, Harold Kimball, Barb (JSe), Dave Shuford (DS), John Silvas (JSi), Anderson, Robby Bacon, Stephen F. Bailey, Klasson(BKI), Jeri M. Langham, StephenA. Rich Stallcup (RS), John Sterling(JSt), Gary Bryant Bainbridge (BBb), Bernice Barnes Laymort, Bill Lenarz, Gary S. Lester, Ron Le Strachan(GS), Chris Stromsness(CSt), Craig (BBa), Gail Battles, Terry Battles, Dennis Valley, Jim and Sue Liscovec, Ken! Livezey, Strong (CStr), Steve Summers, Chris Swarth Beau (DB), John Beam, Ted Beedy (TBe), Elaine Loring, John Lovio, David Lowe, Roy (CSw}, Irene Timossi, Dorothy Tobkin Lynn Berner, Laurie C. Binford, Clark W. Lowe, John Luther (JLu), Harriet Mad- (DTo), Richard Tryon, Steve Umland, Kent Blake, Neil Blank, Bob Boekdheide (BBo), dox, Akiko Makishima, Eugene Makishima Van Vuren, John & Ricky Warriner, Bruce William Bousman, Dawn Breese(DBr), Tony (EM), Marie Mans (MM), James P. Matz- Wi!liford, Bob & Carol Yutzy.--RON Briggs(TBr), Kurt F. Campbell, Scott Carey, inger, Tim Mckay, Peter J. Metropulos, LeVALLEY (Loons through Alcids), 1876 Karen Cartier, Neal Clark, Howard L. Cogs- Mark Meyers (MMe), Marjorie Moore Ocean Dr., Mckinleyville, Ca. 95521, and well, Pain Conley, Nancy T. Conzett, Dave (MMo), Elton Morel (EMo), Joe Morlan, JULES EVENS (Pigeonsthrough Sparrows), DeSante (DDeS), Bruce E. Deud, Linda Mt. Diablo Audubon Society, Dan Murphy, Box 839, Pt. Reyes Station, Ca. 94956.

SOUTHERN PACIFIC COAST Apr. 18, San Diego; Bell's Vireo Mar. 22, after, N.E.S.S.) Apr. 5 (RMcK) was the only REGION San Diego; Solitary Vireo Mar. 24, Orange one found in the e. part of the Region. County; Warbling Vireo Mar. 10, Santa Bar- /Guy McCaskie bara; Nashville Warbler Mar. 27, Whitewater ALBATROSSES, SHEARWATERS, Canyon; Ydlow Warbler Mar. 29, Ventura STORM-PETRELS--A Black-footed Alba- County; Black-throated Gray Warbler Mar. tross one mi off Pacific Beach, San Diego 21, San Diego; Hermit Warbler Apr. 7 Co., May 16 (EC) was exceptionallyclose to (early), Santa Barbara and Apr. 18, San shore. A N. Fulmar found dead in Santa Bar- Diego and Orange counties; MacGillivray's bara Mar. 19 (LRB) was the only one re- Warbler Mar. 26, Ventura County; Yellow- ported. A Flesh-footed Shearwater, rare off A few fronts from the north during March breasted Chat Apr. 8, San Diego; Wilson's California, was 3 mi off Goleta, Santa Bar- and April gave us some rain but we entered Warbler Mar. 15, Palm Springsand Ventura bara Co., May 29 (JA) and two were seenoff the dry season in early May with a below- County; Hooded Oriole Feb. 27, San Diego; San Diego May 16 (EC). Six Ashy Storm-Pet- average rainfall for the year. Most observers N. (Bullock's) Oriole Mar. 11, San Diego; W. rels off San Diego May 16 (EC) were in an felt that migration was early. Large numbers Tanager Apr. 11, San Diego; Black-headed area where few are recorded. of migrant landbirds passed through desert Grosbeak Mar. 24, Orange County; Blue oasesduring mid-April with Warbling Vireos Grosbeak Apr. 17, Antelope Valley; Lazuli HERONS--The wintering imm. Little Blue and Nashville Warblers being exceptionally Bunting Apr. 1, Orange County; Black- Heron in San Diego remained through Mar. numerous. Along the coast migrant landbirds chinned Sparrow Apr. 1, San Jacinto Mts. 17 (GMcC); an adult in Santa Barbara/Gol- were most conspicuousduring the latter half eta May 6-14 (LRB), another in Ojai, Ven- of April, with Townsend's Warblers more LOONS, GREBES--A flock of 93 Corn. tura Co., May 1 (JG) and a third at N.E.S.S., common than usual. The influx of vagrants Loons on L. Henshaw during late May not only included a larger- in the mountains of San than-usual number of birds normally found Diego County Apr. 18 in the southeastern United States but also in- (GMcC) was an excep- cluded a great variety of wood warblers, re- tionally large concentra- .•:-- '"'.-: :-..-'.... .:':':'..*.-'-• '•!eLO sulting in the recording of 34 speciesduring tion for an inland locali- the period! ty; one at Little Lake, The early arrival datesfor someof our key Inyo Co., May 22 (PEL) migrants were: Wilson's Phalarope Apr. 5, and another at Oasis, Salton Sea; N. Phalarope Apr. 5, Salton Sea; Mono Co., May 23-25 Com. Tern Apr. 23, Ventura; Least Tern (PEL) were in areas Apr. 13, San Diego; Elegant Tern Mar. 14, where few are recorded. ..• - ,•%.•, San Diego; Black Tern Apr. 18, Antelope An Arctic Loon on L. Valley; Lesser Nighthawk Mar. 25, Ventura Henshaw Apr. 8 (RH) County; Vaux's Swift Apr. 4, San Diego; was unexpected since Black-chinned Hummingbird Mar. 22, Los few are recorded inland Angeles;W. Kingbird Mar. 5, Orange Coun- away from the immed- ty; Ash-throated FlycatcherMar. 31, Orange iate vicinity of the coast. County; Willow Flycatcher May 2, San A Red-necked Grebe in Diego; Hammond's Flycatcher Mar. 27, San Santa Monica May 23- Diego; W. FlycatcherMar. 10, Los Angeles; 26 (KLG) was excep- ' -"-..:'""•:;• • '1 c • o•s• % •:!; • W. Wood Pewee Apr. 10, San Diego; Olive- tionally late. A Horned sided Flycatcher Apr. 10, Orange and San Grebe at the north end .•.a•.•'•::-:•-•::?.• •S.a'•&•t. SOn•orgonio ...•••.. Luis Obispo counties; Swainson's Thrush of the Salton Sea (here- ../ ' '"'"

862 American Birds, September 1981 May 10 (JO) fit the pattern set by spring va- Valley Apr. 8 (KLG) and five at Yucca Val- A o' Ruff at Pt. Mugu Apr. I I (REW) was grants to California (see WesternBirds 8:151- ley, San Bernardino Co., Apr. 24 (RMcK) be- definitely a migrant as this area was checked 154, 1977). Two Cattle Egrets at Furnace ing the largest concentrationsreported; this is regularly throughout the winter. Creek Ranch in Death Valley (hereafter, a far cry from the "hundreds" seenmigrating F.C.R.) May 28 (JML) and singlebirds in the through this Region 30 years ago. An ad. GULLS, TERNS, SKIMMERS--A first- Antelope Valley near Lancaster Apr. 26 Bald Eagle over Topanga, Los Angeles Co., winter Glaucous Gull was present in Goleta (DRW) & May 25 (JLD) werethe only trans- Apr. 27 (KLG) and a sub-adult on L. Cach- Mar. 14-Apr. 18 OLD, ph., S.D.N.H.M.). A ients found away from the coastal lowlands. uma, Santa Barbara Co., May 3 (PEL) were A sub-adult Reddish Egret, rare in Califor- somewhat late. An ad. Peregrine Falcon at nia, was near Oceanside, San Diego Co., N.E.S.S., May 2 (EAC) and another on San Apr. 17-May 3 (LS). One of the wintering Clemente I., Apr. 22-23 (HF) were the only Louisiana Herons near Imperial Beach, San ones found away from known nestingsites. A Diego Co., was still presentMay 9 (EAC); an Merlin in Santa Barbara Apr. 13 (PEL), adult in Goleta Apr. 30 and in nearby Carpin- another near Ventura Apr. 24 (REW), and a teria May I (LRB) was quite far n., another third at S.C.R.E., May 4 (REW) were the on San Clemente l., May 20 (WTE) along latest reported this spring. with one at BolsaChica, Orange Co., May 25 (JA) were late, and two at N.E.S.S., May 10 CRANES, RAILS--A Sandhill Crane at (AS) were inland. A sub-adult Yellow- San Jacinto L., RiversideCo., Mar. 7 (EAC) crowned Night Heron, a casual straggler to was away from areas of normal occurrence, First-winter Glaucous Gull with Western California, was at the Santa Clara R. estuary and 100+ flying N over N.E.S.S., Apr. 5 near Ventura (hereafter, S.C.R.E.) Apr. (RMcK) was clearly a migrant flock, prob- Gulls, Goleta, Calif., Mar. 14-Apr. 18, 1981. Photo/Jim Greaves. 30oMay 3 (REW). Two transient Least Bit- ably moving N from wintering areas near terns at F.C.R., May 24-28 (JML) were in an S.E.S.S., or in n.w. Mexico. A Sora at Pt. first-winter Thayer's Gull near N.E.S.S., area where small numbers are found each Mugu May 19 (REW) was somewhat late for Mar. 28 (GMcC) was in an area where the spring,but one in Arcadia, Los AngelesCo., along the coast. Six Black Rails calling from speciesis rare, but a second-winterbird near May 8 (B. Cohen,fide GSS) was unexpected. marshes bordering Morro Bay May 12 (JR) Lancaster May 18 (JLD) was the first found were in the only area along the coast of s. inland away from the Salton Sea and Col- GEESE, DUCKS--As usual a few Brant California known to regularly support this orado R. The first-winter Black-headed Gull were found inland during March and April elusive bird. wintering in Redondo Beach was last seen with high counts of 110 at N.E.S.S., Mar. 10 Apr. 20 (KLG). A Laughing Gull, rare along (BW) and 18 on L. Henshaw Apr. 8 (RH); the coast, was on Laguna L., near Morro Bay these are birds moving N from winter SHOREBIRDS--A Black Oystercatcherin Mar. 6-May 15 (JR), one was at Pt. Mugu grounds in the Gulf of California. Eleven Goleta Apr. 22 (N. States,fide PEL) and May 2 (REW), another was in Redondo White-fronted Geeseflying N over Mt. Palo- anotherin CarpinteriaApr. 24 (J. Chamber- Beach May 4 (H&NS), and the first-winter mar, San Diego Co., Mar. 13 (RH) were at an lain, fide PEL) werewanderers in areasout- bird found in San Diego Feb. 3 was still pres- unusuallocality and two at N.E.S.S., May 10 side the species'normal range. Four Am. ent Apr. 11 (JO). An exceptionally early ad. (JO) were late. A Ross' Goosenear Lancaster Golden Plovers near Santa Maria Apr. 26 Franklin's Gull at the S.C.R.E., Mar. 15 Apr. 5 (DLD) wasthe first to be found in the (PEL) and one at Seal BeachApr. 18 (AFP) (REW) and another on Baldwin L., Mar. 21 Antelope Valley, and one at N.E.S.S., Apr. were the latest of the wintering birds to de- (KLG) were followed by five along the coast 12 (DP) was somewhatlate. Unexpectedwere part. Twelve Black-belliedPlovers near Lan- May 6-12 (PEL,JR) along with one at four Fulvous Whistling Ducks near Lancaster casterApr. 8 (JLD) wereunusual since this F.C.R., May 24 (JSL) and another at May 16-17 (KLG) sincewild birds are acci- speciesis rare inland away from the Salton N.E.S.S., May 3 (EC). An ad. Heermann's dental away from the vicinity of the south Sea. SolitarySandpipers are normallyrare in end of the Salton Sea (hereafter, S.E.S.S.). A springso reportsof six come as a surprise, o' Eur. Wigeon on L. Cuyamacain the moun- with an exceptionallyearly bird on Baldwin tains of San Diego County Apr. 4 (DP) and L., in the San Bernardino Mts., Apr. 3 another on San Elijo Lagoon, San Diego Co., (KLG), three found in the Antelope Valley to Apr. 19 (JO) were the latest reported this Apr. 21-May 16 (JLD, KLG), and single spring. A o' Eur. x Am. Wigeon was at birds around Tecopa, Inyo Co., Apr. 8 & 23 S.C.R.E., Apr. 10-26 (REW). A 9 Barrow's (JT). A RuddyTurnstone, exceptionally rare Goldeneye, a casualstraggler to the coast of inland away from the Salton Sea, was near s. California, was at Pt. Mugu, Ventura Co., LancasterApr. 8 (KLG), and a high count of Mar. 29 (REW). An Oldsquaw near Ventura 37 was made at the Salton Sea May 3 (EC). remained May 25 (DSte), and another was at Five Short-billed Dowitchers in the Antelope Redondo Beach, Los Angeles Co., Apr. Valley Apr. 8-21 (JLD) were the only ones 24-27 (H&NS). The o' Harlequin Duck found found inland away from the Salton Sea. Red in Carlsbad in 1977 was still present at the Knots were constantlypresent on the Salton Adult Franklin's Gull near Santa Maria, San- end of the period (EC). Up to 49 Surf Scoters Sea Mar. 28-May10 with a high count of 45 ta Barbara Co., Calif., May 6, 1981. Photo Apr. 12 (GMcC); one near LancasterMay 16 were presenton L. Henshaw Apr. 2-9 (RH); /Paul Lehman. these are birds moving out of the Gulf of Cal- (B.Obst,fide KLG) was the only one found ifornia to the Pacific. A flock of 12 Red- inland away from the Salton Sea. A Sander- Gull, a rare stragglerto the interior, was at breasted Merganserson L. Henshaw Apr. 8 ling, a rare bird anywhereinland away from N.E.S.S., Apr. 12 (JO) and the first-winter (RH) had probably moved N out of the Gulf the Salton Sea, was near Tecopa May 8 (JT) bird found wintering at S.E.S.S., was still of California. and five were near LancasterMay 12 (KLG). presentMay 30 (RH). An ad. Sabine'sGull Eight Semipalmated Sandpipers were re- near Lancaster May 17-25 (FH, ph., KITES, HAWKS, FALCONS--A White- ported with singlebirds in Goleta May 5 & 29 S.D.N.H.M.) wasthe first to be found inland tailed Kite at N.E.S.S., Apr. 5 (RMcK) was (PEL), four at S.C.R.E., May 3-20 (REW), in springaway from the Salton Sea and Col- somewhat outside the species'normal range. one near LancasterMay 18 (JLD), and one at orado R. As usual a few Arctic Terns passed An ad. MississippiKite at F.C.R., May 24-25 S.E.S.S., May 3 (GMcC). A Baird's Sand- close to the coast in May, with 15 off San (JO) was only the tenth to be found in Cali- piper, rare in spring, was at the Santa Maria Diego May 16 (EC) and one off Goleta May fornia, but five were at F.C.R., on dates R. mouth May 14 (REW) and another was at 29 (LB). Totally unexpectedwas a LeastTern ranging betweenMay 21 and June 14. The S.C.R.E., Apr. 29 (REW). A Pectoral Sand- at F.C.R., May 27 (JML); this speciesis a only Broad-wingedHawk was an adult at piper, also rare in spring, was at Pt. Mugu casualstraggler to the Salton Sea, accidental Morongo Valley, San BernardinoCo., Apr. May 9 (REW) and another was at S.C.R.E., along the Colorado R., and was previously 30 (EAC, ph., S.D.N.H.M.). Swainson's May 15 (REW). The only Stilt Sandpipersto unrecorded elsewhere from the interior of s. Hawks were rare with five in the Antelope be found were two at S.E.S.S., May 3 (JO). California. Black Skimmers were found to

Volume35, Number5 863 the n. of San Diego Bay, the only place along 'TITMICE THROUGH VIREOS--Two with six along the coast after Apr. 23, were the coast where this speciesnests, with one Plain Titmice in Morongo Valley May 4 more than normally recorded. Four Magnolia near Oceanside May 3 (DP), another near (DRW) were a little out of normal range. A Warblers in the e. part of the Region May San Pedro May 31 (JA), and at least sevenat White-breasted Nuthatch at F.C.R., May 23-29, along with a male at Playa del Rey S.C.R.E., Apr. 17-Jun. 3 (REW). 24-28 (JSL) was far from the nearest area of May 30 (HB), was a little above average. A 9 normal occurrence. Three Brown Thrashers Black-throated Green Warbler, a casual ALCIDS--A Pigeon Guillemot off Goleta were reportedwith one near Morro Bay Apr. spring vagrant to California, was near Mali- May 29 (LB) and threeoff San PedroApr. 12 21 (JR), another near San Diego Apr. 10 bu May 27 (KLG). A • BlackburnJanWarb- (B. Obst, fide KLG) were in areas where the (DWP), and the third in Kelso, San Bernar- ler at Playa del Rey May 31 (HB) is only the speciesis consideredrare. A Horned Puffin, dino Co., May 21 (ASE). A Bendire's sixth to be found in this Region in spring. a casual straggler to California, was at Santa Thrasher in California City, Kern Co., Apr. 4 Seven Yellow-throated Warblers were found Monica May 23-26 (KLG,*U.C.L.A.). (GWP) was appreciably n.w. of the species' with a male near Goleta May 10 (LB), a fe- normal range. A Townsend's Solitaire on Pt. male in Santa Barbara May 11 + (LRB), one PIGEONS THROUGH GOATSUCKERS Loma Apr. 18 (DP) was unusual since few at Northridge, Los Angeles Co., May 7 (H. --More than the usual number of Band-tailed reach the coast of California in spring. A Swanton,fide GSS), one in Long BeachMay Pigeonswandered to the coast of San Diego Phainopeplaat Pt. Mugu May 9 (REW) was 18 (BD), a male near Malibu May 27 (KLG) a County with 25 + found on Pt. Loma during in an area where very few are recorded. female on Pt. Loma Apr. 25 (JO), and a male May; one near Tecopa May 9 (JT) and anoth- Most unusual was a c•White-eyed Vireo in m Corn Springsin e. RiversideCo., Apr. 25 er in Superior Valley of e. San Bernardino Whitewater Canyon, Riverside Co., May 9 (AS, ph., S.D.N.H.M.). The cy Grace's County May 13 (ASE) were both far from (HLJ) followed by another in Malibu, Los Warbler that wintered in Santa Barbara was areas of normal occurrence. Two White- AngelesCo., May 24-27 (J. Szabo, fide KLG, last seen Mar. 28 (PEL); two males on Clark winged Doveson Pt. Loma May 5 (GCE) and ph., S.D.N.H.M.) for there are only 4 previ- Mt., in e. San Bernardino Co., May 23 (BD) single birds there May 25 (EC) & 27 (DP) ous records of this speciesin California. A were in an area where nestingcould occur. A were the only ones found along the coast. A cyChestnut-sided Warbler in Morongo Valley Ground Dove near Satieoy, Ventura Co., May 14 (EAC) and another at Oasis May

Apr. 29 (JM) was somewhatto the n.w. of ; 24-27 (JML) were the only onesreported. the species'normal range. A ScreechOwl at A cy Bay-breasted Warbler on Pt.oLoma F.C.R., May 27 (JML) was believed to be a May 25-28 (EC) was the only one found this migrant since this speciesdoes not normally spring. A cy Blackpoll Warbler, quite rare in occur at this location. A Flammulated Owl spring, was at Deep Springs May 28 (B. on Mt. Palomar May 24 + (RH) appearedto Brock, fide JML). A Palm Warbler in Ven- be on territory. A Long-earedOwl near Im- tura Mar. 30 (JG) had undoubtedly wintered perial BeachMar. 21 (GMcC) appearedto be in that area. A somewhat early Ovenbird at a migrant. A migrant Short-eared Owl at Pt. Corn Springs,Apr. 25 (AS) was followed by Mugu Apr. 25 (REW) was consideredvery ! six more at various locations within the Re- late. The Whip-poor-will found wintering in gion during May. A wintering N. Water- Pacific Palisadeswas last heard Mar. 17 (B. thrush remained at Pt. Mugu through Apr. Wilets, fide GSS). A Poor-will in Coronado, 11 (REW) and another near Imperial Beach San Diego Co., Apr. 28 (EC) was clearly a White-eyed Vireo, Malibu Cr., Calif., May was still present May 2 (GMcC); nine mi- 26, 1981. Photo/Donaid R. Hoechlin. migrant. grantswere found in the e. part of the Region Hutton's Vireo near LancasterApr. 18 (FH) in late May. A cy Kentucky Warbler, an acci- SWIFTS THROUGH WGODPECKERS was some distance away from areas of nor- dental stragglerto California, was in Moron- --An exceptionally early Black Swift at the mal occurrence. Another real rarity in Cali- go Valley May 17-21 (EAC). Six Hooded Ventura R. mouth Apr. 19 (REW) was fol- fornia, a Yellow-throatedVireo, wasin Long Warblers along the coast in Goleta/Santa lowed by three over Goleta May 19 (JLD), BeachMay 16-17(BD) with a secondat Deep Barbara and around San Diego Apr. 18-May three over Griffith P., in Los AngelesMay 27 Springs, Inyo Co., May 22 (DLD). A Solitary 13 (PEL,EC), along with one in Laguna (KLG), and one over San Elijo Lagoon May Vireo of the gray race, plurnbeus, on Mt. Pal- Beach May 24 (JAJ), one at Deep Springs 19 (JO) along the coast, along with two at L. omar May 10 (RH) was a migrant moving to May 23 (BS,ph., S.D.N.H.M.), and a ninth Henshaw May 18 (RH) and three at Finney the W of this form's normal range. Unex- at Scotty's Castle in Death Valley May 27 L., in the Imperial Valley May 3 (GMcC). pected were three Philadelphia Vireos, casual (JML) was far more than normally reported. Two Chimney Swifts over Burbank, Los An- stragglersto California in spring,with one at A total of 30+ Am. Redstarts was found geles Co., May 29 (D. Koeppel, fide GSS) Oasis May 23-29 (JML), another there May during May. The Painted Redstart found were the only onesreported this spring.A 9 25-28 (BD), and the third at the same spot wintering in San Diego was last seenMar. 14 Downy Woodpecker in San Diego Apr. 11 May 29-31 (BD). (BD). (JO) was a little s. of the species' present range. A • Ladder-backed Woodpecker a! WGOD WARBLERS--Nine Black-and- F.C.R., Mar. 31 (LN) was a little out of white Warblers in the e. portion of the Re- range. tion, along with ten along the coast, Apr. 16-June6, gave us an averagenumber for the FLYCATCHERS--A Tropical Kingbird at spring migration period. A 9 Prothonotary Morro Bay Mar. 20-23 (BE) had probably Warbler at Oasis May 28-29 (JML) was the wintered nearby, and the bird presentin Go- only one found this spring. A Worm-eating leta all winter wasstill presenton the remark- Warbler, a casual spring stragglerto Califor- ably late date of May 23 (LB). NestingWied's nia, was at Oasis May 26 (REW). A • Gol- Crested Flycatchers returned to Morongo den-winged Warbler, another real rarity in Hooded Warbler at Deep Springs, Calif., Valley Apr. 30 (R&MW). An E. Phoebenear California, was at Oasis May 25-26 (P.S. May 23, 1981. Photo/Donald R. Hoechlin. Corona, Riverside Co., Mar. 16 (DRW) was Gordon, fide REW). A TennesseeWarbler in undoubtedlywintering locally. A Willow Fly- Ventura Mar. 28 (GAG) and another in Ojai ORIOLES, BLACKBIRDS, TANAGERS catcher near Imperial Beach May 2+ Apr. 9 (JG) were believed to have wintered --Four Bobolinks at F.C.R., May 20-29 (GMcC) was somewhatearly but on territory; nearby;the 20+ springvagrants all occurred (DR,JO) were the only ones reported. A c• the bulk of thesebirds are not seenalong the Apr. 20-June 1. The wintering Virginia's Yellow-headed Blackbird at Los Osos, San coast until the end of May. A Least Fly- Warbler in Newport Beachwas last seenMar. Luis Obispo Co., Apr. 30 (TH) was in an area calcher, casual in spring, was at Oasis May 29 (SJR); one near Tecopa Apr. 24 (JT) was where the speciesis consideredrare. Four N. 21-22 (DR) Thirteen Gray Flycatcherswere the only migrant reported. A N. Parula at (Baltimore) Orioles in lnyo County during reported along the coastApr. I 1-May 21 in- San Elijo Lagoon Mar. 8 (JMcN) was un- late May were clearly spring vagrants; how- dicatingthat a few migrantsreached the coast doubtedly wintering locally; six found in the ever, two in Santa Barbara Mar. 28-Apr. 15 this spring. n.e. portion of the Region May 22-30, along (PEL), another in Goleta Apr. 12 (DB), and

864 American Birds, September1981 one in Manhattan Beach Mar. 29 (KLG) was only the fifth to be found in this Region, na L. Dittmann, Jon L. Dunn, G. Claude Ed- could all have wintered locally, considering with all but one having occurred at this oasis. wards, Bruce Elliott, A. Sidney England, that a male near Malibu May 17 (HB) was be- A Sage Sparrow on the Palos Verdes Pen., William T. Everett, Howard Ferguson, Kim- lieved to be the samebird seenthere through- Mar. 23 (JA) was in an area where few have ball L. Garrett (coordinator for Los Angeles out the winter. A Great-tailed Grackle on Pt. been recorded. A Gray-headed Junco on Pt. County), Greg A. Gillson, Wayne and Vir- Fermin, Los AngelesCo., Apr. 15 (J. Ivanov, Loma May 2-3 (EC) wasquite late, as winter- ginia Gochenour (W&VG), JesseGrantham, fide GSS) was along the coast, and a male at ing birds normally depart in March. A Brew- Thomas Hampson, Fred Heath, Roger Hig- Oasis May 29-30 (JML) was relatively far n. er's Sparrow at S.C.R.E., Apr. 30 (REW) son, Jerry A. Johnson, Barry Jones, H. Lee A c• Scarlet Tanager, a casual straggler to was unexpectedas there appear to be no prev- Jones, Paul Jorgensen, Jeri M. Langham, California in spring, was at Deep Springs ious spring records for that area. A Harris' Paul E. Lehman (coordinator for Santa Bar- May 25 (BB). A c• Hepatic Tanager on Clark Sparrow, scarce in s.w. California, was in bara County), John S. Luther, Robert Mc- Mt., May 23 (DRW) and a pair near Baldwin Garden Grove, Orange Co., Mar. 27-Apr. 2 Kernan, Jane McNeil, Tom Meixner, Jim L., in the San Bernardino Mts., May 31 (SJR). A White-throated Sparrow in Goleta Morris, Larry Norris, Jerry Oldenettel, Den- (RMcK) were in areas where nesting has oc- through Apr. 22 (KB) was the last of the win- nis Parker, Eleanor B. Parsons, Arleta F. curred. Wintering Summer Tanagers lingered tering birds to depart; an exceptionally late Patterson, Gary W. Potter, David W. Povey, to Mar. 28 in Carpinteria (PEL) and to Mar. migrant was at Deep Springs May 23 Sylvia J. Ranney (coordinator for Orange 9 in Orange (DRW); a male was on breeding (GMcC). A Swamp Sparrow at F.C.R., Mar. County), Don Roberson, Charles Rock, Jim territory near Palm Springs on the early date 17 (LN) had probably wintered locally but Royer (coordinator for San Luis Obispo of Apr. 4 (RMcK), and a total of eight va- another there May 23 (JO) was an excep- County), Larry Salata, Brad Schram, Arnold grants was found in the n.e. corner of the Re- tionally late migrant. A 9 Chestnut-collared Small, Gordon Smith, Hal and Nancy Spear gion during the last week of May along with Longspur on San Clemente I., Apr. 15-22 (H&NS), Don Starks (DSta), Don Sterba four around San Diego May 10-June 2. (EC,WTE) was late and one of only a few (DSte), G. Shumway Suffel, Jan Tarble, Bill ever found in California during spring migra- Wagner, Richard E. Webster (coordinator FINCHES, SPARROWS•Fifteen Rose- tion. for Ventura County), Carol C. White, Doug breasted Grosbeaks reported during May R. Willick, John Wilson, Russ and Marion would appear averagebut 30 Indigo Buntings CONTRIBUTORS--Jon Atwood, Larry Wilson (R&MW), Tom Wurster. Specimen during May were more than usually reported. R. Ballard, Dean Bazzi, Louis Bevier, Bruce (*), photograph on file (ph.), San Diego Na- A 9 Dickcissel, quite rare in spring, was at Broadbooks, Karen Bridgers, Hank Brodkin, tural History Museum (S.D.N.H.M.), F.C.R., May 25 (AS). Four Red Crossbillsat Sarah Brooks, EugeneA. Cardiff (coordina- University of California at Los Angeles Yucca Valley, Apr. 18 (RMcK) were at an un- tor for San Bernardino County), Elizabeth (U.C.L.A.).--GUY McCASKIE, San Diego usual locality. ALe Conte's Sparrow at Copper (coordinator for San Diego County), Natural History Mnseum, Balboa Park, P.O. F.C.R., May 24-25 (TW, ph., S.D.N.H.M.) Bart Cord, George Cox, Brian Daniels, Don- Box 1390, San Diego, California 92112.

HAWAIIAN ISLANDS REGION hatched in the Barking Sands and Kilauea 28-29 on Mokuauea islet off n.e. Oahu (M J), /Robert L. Pyle and C. John Ralph areas, four were destroyedby dogs, two were confirming their continued nesting there abandonedand one died of heavy pox infec- despite heavy pressure from picnickers and tion. Two more chicks with pox infections camperswading the 200 yds out from the new were treated by U.S.F.&W.S. biologists and Malae Kakana S.P., on the Oahu mainland. were much improved by the end of May. The On the other sideof the island, Wedge-tailed A little rain this spring brought some relief tenth chick was doing fine in a location apart nesting also was confirmed again on the from the drought on Maul and Hawaii Is- from the others and better protected from Oahu mainland at Black Pt. At least 5 bur- lands, but the dry conditions continued on dogs. At Kilauea, dogs also killed at least rows and ten adults in the air were there May Oahu. Honolulu's 1981 rainfall through May eight adults this year. It is discouragingin- 6 (DPo). was only 4.5 inches compared to a normal deed to have these fine birds trying to nest on 12.5 inches. Temperatures were seasonably private lands where dog control and other WATERFOWL THROUGH COOTS-- variable. At Honolulu a new record low for protective measuresare not yet feasible. An The rare White-fronted Goose wintering at the month (62øF) was set May 2nd and tied ad. Laysan Albatrosscame ashoreApr. 16 at Lowe Aquafarm, O., remained at least to on the 4th and 5th. A week later, it climbed to the Natural Energy Laboratory on the west mid-May (DW). A Koloa, the Endangered 86ø on May 10th, tying the record high for coast of Hawaii I. (BL). It remained 2 days, Hawaiian Duck, with three young was report- the date. then returned to sea. The only known prior ed in mid-March near Puu Loe in the saddle occurrence of this speciesashore on Hawaii between Mauna Kea and the Kohala Mts., of ALBATROSSES THROUGH SHEAR- I., was in the 1860s. Two Short-tailed Alba- Hawaii 1. (fide PPa). A pair was also seen WATERS--The struggling Laysan Albatross trosses were at Sand I., Midway this year near the highway in the same area May 8 nesting colonies on Kauai I., had another (GG). The banded adult, returning for the (PPa). Thesemay have come from the popu- frustrating year. Of ten chicks known to have 8th year, was last seenApr. 24. The other, an lation established in the Kohalas from rein- .. ',. •-,• ß unbanded immature, troductions over the past 20 years. Wintering appeared briefly about ducks departed Oahu and Hawaii during Feb. 10. April with only N. Shovelersand a few Am. • • A Dark-rumped Wigeons reported after Apr. 13. Scarcer spe- Petrel ('Ua'u), with a cies recorded during March and April on dog-bitten wing, was Oahu, Maul, and Hawaii included one or two picked up alive in the pairs each of Garganey (DPr), Cinnamon Palawai Basin, L., May Teal (PB), Blue-winged Teal (PD, PPa) and 19 (PC). It died 2 days Ring-neckedDuck (PPa). California Quail at later. This Endangered Pohakuloa, H., were still in flocks May 12, • Specieswas seen and not yet paired perhaps becauseof the persis- heard in good numbers tent dry conditions in that area (BL, fide •,• . again this year in the DA). Two Japanese Quail, establishedon ...... Lanai mountains (PC) several islands but rarely seen, were flushed and was presumed to be from near the Waimea-Kailua Rd., H., May nesting there. Wedge- 26 (PPa, PPy). Thirty-four Hawaiian (Com.) tailed Shearwaters were Gallinules (an Endangered Species in i coming to burrows Mar. Hawaii), including several broods of young

Volume35, Number5 865 chicks, were found at Hamakua Dr., O., in May (MMo). On one occasion two were early March (JL). This is the highest count heard briefly and one was seencarrying nest- Most exciting news involves a late re- yet at this favored, small, semi-urban wet- ing material. All were in the samelocality and port of a group of about 40 pairs of land. Two families of Hawaiian (Am.) Coots, might well have been the same two individu- Black-capped Petrels that have been dis- also Endangered in Hawaii, were seen there als. These may be the last of the species. covered nestingin the Bahoruco Range, at at the same time (JL). A high count of 96 Other Endangered Species reported by the an elevation of 4000+ ft, in the s.w. of coots was made at Aimakapa Pond, H., Mar. surveyteams included only a few of the finch- the Dominican Republic Feb. 3 (ASD). 8, and 5 active nestswere found there May 10 billed honeycreeper,the 'O'u, and at least Recent evidence in 1979 of an immature (PPa). two pairs of the smaller thrush of Kauai I., bird found in June near Cabral Lagoon the Puaiohi (MMo). One of the rarest of all raised continued suspicionthat the petrel SHOREBIRDS THROUGH TERNS-- the Hawaiian Endangered Species, the was breeding elsewhere in Hispaniola, Wintering shorebirdsbegan thinning out dur- Sickled-billed Honeycreeper, the Nuku-pu'u, ASD reports. Further detailsare expected ing April, with only small numbers of the was reported twice this season.One May 14 elsewhere. Interested readers are encour- commonerspecies (Am. Golden Plover, Rud- on Maui, deep in the wet native forest on the aged to review Wingate (Auk: 1964; 147- dy Turnstone, Wandering Tattler and San- n.e. slope of Haleakala Mt. (SSa), and the 159). Other Caribbean observations are derling) remaining at month's end. Daily other at Kalalau Lookout, Kauai, was few, but three observationsof the gadfly monitoring at several locations on Oahu re- photographed Mar. 22 (EB, fide TT). Yel- petrel off the s.w. coast of Puerto Rico vealed that most of the golden plovers de- low-billed Cardinals were nest-building Mar. are intriguing (Erdman, Carib. J. Sci: parted Apr. 20-23. A few of those remaining 25 (DPr) and fed two young May 12-13 (DA) 1967:82). Wetmore discoveredbone frag- will oversummer here. A very rare shorebird on hotel grounds6 mi apart in and near Kai- ments in a kitchen midden near Magen's was reported this spring: A Whimbrel well- lua-Kona, H. These sightings further docu- Bay, S.T.T., earlier this century. observedat Kii Pond, O., May 22 (RC, DW). ment the spread of this handsome exotic A few Dunlins and a dowitcher (probably along the Kona coast from dry forest s. into Long-billed) coming into breeding plumage suburban residential areas. Saffron Finches were seen on Oahu in March and April (PD, also are increasing significantly in the n. The first known occurrence of Double-crest- M J). A Bristle-thighed Curlew, a rare but Kona District, H. Flocks of mixed adults and ed Cormorant in the British Virgin Islands regular migrant, was at Keomoku Beach, L., immatures numbering 100+ Mar. 24 (DPr) (hereafter, B.V.I.) was observedat Anegada Apr. 16 (PC), and a Bar-tailed Godwit was and 250+ May 26 (PPa) were reported in the Mar. 14 (ML, RN, RV). The last date of this seen at Hilo Airport, H., May 7 (SSa). Two Puu Waawaa, H. area. winter's invasion was Mar. 27 at St. John, reports of Hawaiian (Black-necked) Stilts U.S.V.I. (TA). A count of 130 Am. Hamin- near Hilo on the e. side of Hawaii I., this- ISLAND ABBREVIATIONS--H. (Ha- gos Apr. 30 (JG) at Lago Limon, Dominican springwere quite significant. One frequented waii I.), L. (Lanai I.), M. (Maui I.), O. (Oahu Republic (hereafter, D.R.) servesto establish a temporary rain-filled pond near Mountain some baseline data in the Greater Antilles. View Feb. 13-16 (N. Kunitake, fide MMu), No flamingos were reported by observersvis- and one was seen flying over Lokoaka Pond CONTRIBUTORS--Dave Anderson, iting Abaco, Bahama Islands(hereafter, B.I.) Apr. I 1 (PPa). Suitable habitat for this En- George Balazs, E. Beauchesne, Phil Brunet, during the first week of March where a small dangered (in Hawaii) Species is scarce on Rick Coleman, Peter Connally, Peter Don- colony may persist. A Green-wingedTeal was Hawaii I., and in recent decades it has oc- aldson, Gilbert Grant, Merrill Jensen, Bar- noted at Anegada Mar. 13 (RV). A Swallow- curred only in small numbersat a few ponds bara Lee, Jaan Lepson, Laurie McIvor, tailed Kite was observedMar. 6 (KK, m.ob.) on the w. (Kona) coast of the island, 65 mi Marie Morin (MMo), Mae Mull (MMu), at the n.w. point of Grand Bahama I., pro- from Hilo. Peter Paton, (PPa), David Potter, Doug viding the first known recordof the speciesin Relatively few gulls have been reported in Pratt, Peter Pyle (PPy), Steve Sabo (SSa), the B.I. A PeregrineFalcon was seenApr. 13 the Region this winter and spring, and none Susan Schulmeister, Garth Spitlet, Tom at St. John (hereafter, S.T.J.--RN) and an- at all on Oahu. Two sub-adult Ring-billeds Telfer, Dave Woodside.--ROBERT L. other was noted at L. Enriquillo, D.R., Apr. and up to three imm. Laughings were at Kea- PYLE, 741 N. Kalabeo Ave., Kailua, HI 23 (ASD). Clapper Rails have apparently lia and Kanahaponds, M., until May 16 (PB, 96734, and C. JOHN RALPH, U.S. Forest gone unrecorded among Anegada's extensive DPr, DA), and one Ring-billed was seen ir- Service, Institute of Pacific Islands Forestry, mangrovesuntil Mar. 15 (RN). A rare visitor regularly at Lokoaka Pond, H., Nov. 1151 Punchbowl St., Honolulu, HI 96813. to the B.l., a Piping Plover, was observedat 17-Apr. 27 at least (PPa, GS). An uncommon Powell Cay, Abaco Mar. 4 (JB). Red Knots Common Tern was found at Bellows Air are rare visitorsto the area yet seemto be reg- Force Station, O., Apr. 7 (PD, PB, GB) and ular at Anegada, whence 15 were recorded was seen there again Apr. I I & 18. It might Mar. 15 (RV, ML, RN). Indeed, Anegada have been the same bird that wintered at Lo- representsthe most significant in all the V.I., koaka Pond, H., until Mar. 19 (PPa). with few rivals in the e. Caribbean. Over 3000 shorebirds were counted Mar. 14-15 repre- PARAKEETS THROUGH PASSERINES senting 18 migrant and residentspecies. Par- --Rose-ringed Parakeetshave frequentedse- ticularly noteworthy were 400-900 Western, veral areason Oahu for a decadewithout any and 652 Stilt sandpipersand a singleRuff and direct evidenceof breeding being reported. It WEST INDIES REGION Reeve, these providing the third and fourth was thus unexpectedthat the first valid obser- records from the V.I. Three Ruffs have oc- vation of this species nesting in the wild /Robert L. Norton should come from Hawaii I., where they had not previously been known to occur. A nest with 4 eggswas found in a Mauna Loa maca- damia nut orchard near Keaau, H., Feb. 22. Precipitation fluctuated below average for The one chick that hatched and the (• adult March and above for April by nearly 100% were taken alive Mar. 17 (LM, PPa). A sight- respectively,but a 300% increaseduring May ing of Indian Sandgrousealong the Waimea- indicated a signficant weather change for mi- Kailua Hwy, May 26 (PPa, PPy) was the lat- grants and returning summer residentsin the est of several reports in recent years in a lo- Greater Antilles. calized area of the N. Kona District, H. The specieswas first introducedthere as a poten- SHEARWATERS THROUGH TERNS-- tial game bird in 1961. During the U.S.F. & Audubon's Shearwater has been found nest- W.S. Endangered Forest Bird Survey in the ing in 2 previouslyunknown locationsin the Alakai Swamp area of Kauai, the almost ex- United States Virgin Islands (hereafter, tinct honeyeater, the 'O'o'a'a (Kauai 'O'o), U.S.V.I.), Sula and Frenchcap Cays, St. Ruff, East Point, Anegada, B. V.L, Mar. 15, was heard and seen on 4 different dates in Thomas (hereafter, S.T.T.) Mar. 4 (RN). 1981. Photo/R.R. Veit.

866 American Birds, September1981 status of White-crowned Pigeon in the Re- A late report arrived from ASD of the Do- gion is alwaysof interest;hence, seven noted minican Republic's first Bay-breasted Warb- at Abaco Mar. 2 (RE, GH) and one at L. En- ler at Puerto Alejandro Oct. 8, 1980. A 9 and riquillo, D.R., Apr. 30 (JG) are reported o' Common Yellowthroat were recorded for here. A Corn. Nighthawk was observed at the first time on Anegada Mar. 14 (RV, ML), Cruz Bay, S.T.J., Apr. 13 (RN) and a night- the e. terminus of its winter range. As many hawk, possiblyChordeiles minor gundlachii, as nine N. Orioles were seen in Coral Bay, was observed Apr. 29 (JG) at Barahona, S.T.J., Apr. 16 (RN, MS) providing further D.R. West Indian Nighthawks had not evidence of winter residency in recent years. returned to Anegada by mid-March where A Rose-breasted Grosbeak was observed breedinghas beenrecorded for severalyears. Mar. 21 on S.T.J. (ML, RV). Approximately Reports of endemicssuch as the locally com- 50 Indigo Buntings were seen in Coral Bay, mon Hispaniolan Trogon May 2 (JG) in the S.T.J., Mar. 14 (GT) with the last occurrence highlandsof the Dominican Republicare of recorded May 1 at Cancel Bay, S.T.J. (JVG). interest to researchers and conservationists. Ruff, East Point, Angada, B.V.L, Mar. 15, SUB-REGIONAL EDITOR (boldface ital- 1981. Photo/M.J. Litchfield. Similarly, crow spp. which have beenlocally extirpated, œe., Cuban Crow from Exuma ic), contributors (boldface), observers and curred at Anegada since August 1980. Six and Crooked Is., B.I., LesserPuerto Rican other abbreviations--Tundi Agardy, Ruth Wilson's Phalaropes appeared at Caldera, Crow and White-necked Crow from Puerto Andberg, Paul Andrew, Fred and Bit Barry, D.R., in early April (ASD). A Ring-billed Rico, warrant occasionalcensuses where ex- Jeff Bucking, •4nnabe!!eS. Dod, Ron Erick- Gull was noted at Barahona, D.R., Apr. 29 tant. More than six Palm Crows were noted son, James Gibson, Jasmine V. Grey, Geneva (JG). Gull-billed Terns could be considered May 2 in the Central Cordillera, D.R. (JG). Halliday, Juliet and William Howard, Kenn "transient summer residents" in the Greater An Am. Robin was observed Mar. 4 at Kaufman, Marcia Litchfield, Gary Manesto, Antilles; thus, one bird seenat L. Enriquillo, Powell Cay, Abaco, B.I. (GH). A Yellow- Vonnie Small, Roy Smith, Michael Sweat- D.R., Apr. 30 was noteworthy (JG). A late throated Vireo observed Mar. 19 near man, Glover Thompson, Richard Veil, report was of a Forster's Tern seen Oct. 8, Magen's Bay, S.T.T., and another seenMar. m.ob.,--many observers.--ROBERT L. 1980, near Barahona, D.R. (ASD). 21 on S.T.J. (ML, RV) providedthe first spr- NORTON, Division of Fish and Wildlife, 101 ing recordsfrom the VA., suggestingwinter Estate Nazareth, St. Thomas, U.S.V.I. PIGEONS THROUGH BUNTINGS--The residency. 00801.

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