Virginia Birds A Quarterly Journal of Ornithological Sightings in the Commonwealth Published by the Virginia Society of Ornithology

Volume 8, Number 2 Fall Records August 2011–November 2011 WeEditors' were very excited when ourNotes East Region Editor, Fred Atwood, proposed that three of his high school students would edit the Region report for the fall period report under his guidance. We think you will agree that our guest editors, Jacob Barkett, Sayed Malawi, and Nicholas Newberry did an outstanding job. Perhaps “the” birding story of the period was Hurricane Irene. Wendy Ealding, Secretary of the Virginia Avian Records Committee, summarizes the presence of storm-related rarities across the state in her article on page 4 and Dr. Bryan Watts, Director of the Center for Conservation Biology, adds a post script regarding the damage done to Bald Eagle nests.

Corrections: Virginia Birds, Spring Records March 2011 – May 2011 was incorrectly numbered as Volume 7, Number 3. It was actually Volume 7, Number 4.

In Virginia Birds, Summer Records, June – July 2011 the Editors Notes from the spring period were unintentionally repeated. Additionally, the Central Region Report was for fall period instead of summer. The report for the summer period can be found in the Central Region section of this issue. The cover photo was also from the fall reporting period.

On the Cover: Two Swallow-tailed Kites in Campbell County were seen and photographed by many birders from mid-Au- gust to early September. Photograph by Adam D'Onofrio

Publisher Regional Editors Virginia Society of Ornithology Fred Atwood Printed on recycled paper Lenny Bankester Adam D’Onofrio Editors Wendy Ealding Linda Fields Clyde Kessler Alan Schreck Lynda Mayhorn [email protected] Roger Mayhorn C. Michael Stinson Bill Williams

Terms and Abbreviations L. – Lake Ornithology Species name in bold first time men- MAPS – Monitoring Avian v.t. – video taped (by + initials) tioned (RARITIES bold and all caps) Productivity and Survivorship WMA – Wildlife Management Area County names are in italics m.ob. – many/multiple observers  – VARCOM Review List Bird Abbreviations: Mt. – Mountain, Mount † – written details submitted ad. (ads.) – adult(s) NWR – National Wildlife Refuge * – specimen collected BBS – breeding bird survey ph. – photographed (by + initials) CBC – Christmas Bird Count Pt. – Point Submissions Cr. – Creek R. – River Send reports and photographs to the et al. – and others Res. – Reservoir Regional Editors. Photographs should fide – vouched by Rte. – Route be the highest electronic quality possi- FOS — First of Season SF – State Forest ble. Send with release form, which can Ft. – Fort SP – State Park be found on the VSO web site: www. Hwy. – Highway VARCOM – Virginia Avian Records virginiabirds.net I. – Island(s), Isle(s) Committee Articles for consideration can be sent to imm. (imms.) – immature(s) VDGIF – Virginia Department of [email protected] Jct. – Junction Game and Inland Fisheries juv. (juvs.) – juvenile(s) VSO – Virginia Society of

Page 2 Virginia Birds Volume 8 • Number 2 Virginia Birds Regions Reports Regional Due Editors to 15 Aug 15 Dec 15 Mar 15 Jun Season (Jun–Jul) Summer (Aug–Nov) Fall (Dec–Feb) Winter (Mar–May) Spring

Virginia Birds Volume 8 • Number 2 Page 3 What Hurricane Irene Brought to Virginia Hurricane Irene, the first major hurricane of the 2011 Atlantic season, made landfall as a Category 1 hurricane early in the morning on August 27 at Cape Lookout, North Carolina and headed north passing just off the Virginia coast to New Jersey over the next 24 hours. The high winds and heavy rain caused extensive damage from downed trees in the Richmond area, although as little as 30 miles to the west, damage was minimal, enabling birders in the western Piedmont to get out and search for hurricane-displaced species at large bodies of water. Birders on the Eastern Shore were likewise able to get out in the field and contribute reports. Some sense of the bird activity during the oncoming storm was captured in an e-mail that Ned Brinkley sent out to the VA- Bird list serve on the morning of August 27.

An adult Arctic Tern is sitting with 4 Royal, 11 Sandwich, 12 Common, 1 Least, and 21 Forster’s Terns on Cape Charles Beach presently. This is probably the nucleus of what will be a larger storm roost that will form here during the easterlies today. Winds are still in the 30s, gusting to the low 40s, with bands of rain passing through, sometimes heavy. Landfall of the eye of Irene just occurred a few minutes ago around Cape Lookout, so we are some hours from the most intense wind and rain. It is interesting to watch the formation of these storm roosts. Terns are coming off the Bay at all heights (from just above the surf to very high, where they can only be heard calling but not seen), mostly from the southwest, and they are often engaged in what seems to be foraging, but I have not seen any of them capture a fish. The behavior seems almost to be a nervous reaction to the irregular wind speeds/patterns, but that’s just a guess. Many of the terns (Sandwich and Common) are checking out the beach roost and passing it by, and some of these are passing off to the north of town, while others are angling in along Jefferson Avenue, then doing the pseudo- foraging behavior over Crystal Lake, adjacent to which a new storm roost is forming in vacant lots of Marina Villages (3 Laughing Gulls, 28 Forster’s Terns, 1 Least Tern juv., 17 Common Terns, 1 Royal Tern, 2 Sandwich Terns). Common Terns are very common to our south, nearer the mouth of the Bay, but we do not see them within town unless there is a storm.

As VARCOM Secretary, the author monitored apparently storm related sightings of rarities that were reported on the VA-Bird listserve and solicited reports to VARCOM. A number of these reports have been reviewed and accepted by VARCOM; others are pending submission or further review. The reports, all from the period of August 27–28, 2011, are summarized below. Of the fourteen reports, representing seven species, all but two were seabirds; there was one passerine and one shorebird. Sooty Terns predominated, with five reports. One of these was of an adult found dead in Accomack County, the only apparent casualty in what is admittedly a very small sample of observations.

Red-necked Phalarope: It is not entirely clear that this particular species reported at Dyke Marsh was storm borne although reports this far inland in the Coastal Plain are very rare (1) and the observers also commented on the presence of Royal, Common and Least Terns as unusual in being at this location all at one time. Sooty Tern: This was the most widely reported hurricane-associated species, with reports from three locations on the Eastern Shore and two locations in the Piedmont. Historically, most onshore reports are associated with tropical disturbances (1). Bridled Tern: Two reports from Northampton County. Historically, most onshore reports have been hurricane-associated (1). Arctic Tern: One report from Northampton County; this species is rare anywhere onshore in the state. Royal Tern: All three reports were from locations in the Piedmont where the species has VARCOM Review List status. All historic fall Piedmont records have been hurricane-associated (1). Parasitic Jaeger: The actual identity of this individual bird is still to be confirmed by VARCOM. If confirmed, it will furnish only the third Piedmont record, the previous two both being hurricane-associated (1). Brown-chested Martin: This individual was reported as being the austral migrant fusca subspecies, for which there are only six records from the continental US and Canada (2). It is not clear what, if any, role the hurricane played in its presence.

Page 4 Virginia Birds Volume 8 • Number 2 Table 1: Reports of Rarities During The Passage of Hurricane Irene

Species (No.) Date Location VARCOM status Red-necked Phalarope (1) August 28 Dyke Marsh, Fairfax Accepted Cat 1 Sooty Tern (1 imm. 1 adult) August 27 Sandy River Reservoir, Prince Edward In review Sooty Tern (2 adults) August 27 Lake Anna Awaiting submission Sooty Tern (1 adult) August 28 Sunset Beach, Northampton Awaiting submission Sooty Tern (2 adults, 2 juv) August 28 CBBT #1 Accepted Cat 1 Sooty Tern (1 adult, dead) August 28 Accomack County Accepted Cat 1 Bridled Tern (1 juv 1 subadult) August 27 Oyster, Northampton Awaiting submission Bridled Tern (1 juv) August 28 Sunset Beach, Northampton Awaiting submission Arctic Tern (1 adult) August 27 Cape Charles Awaiting submission Royal Tern (1) August 27 Lake Anna Awaiting submission Royal Tern (2) August 28 Sandy River Reservoir, Prince Edward Awaiting submission Royal Tern (2 adults 1 juv) August 28 Kerr Reservoir, Mecklenburg Accepted Cat 2 Parasitic Jaeger (possible) (1) August 28 Burke Lake, Fairfax In review Brown-chested Martin (1) August 28 Sunset Beach, Northampton Awaiting submission

Acknowledgements: Reports were contributed by Ned Brinkley, Mike Boatwright, Joelle Buffa, Larry Cartwright, Adam D’Onofrio, Kurt Gaskill, Paul Glass, Clyde Morris, Carine, Nick and Tucker Newberry, David Shoch, David and Evan Spears, and Mike Stinson.

References: (1) Rottenborn and Brinkley. (2007) Virginia’s Birdlife: An Annotated Checklist Fourth Edition Virginia Avifauna No.7 (2) http://birding.typepad.com/peeps/2011/08/brown-chested-martin-virginia.html

Wendy Ealding Wendy Ealding is the Secretary of the Virginia Avian Records Committee and the South Central Regional Editor of Virginia Birds

….And What Irene Took Away Bald eagle nests along the historic James River were hit hard by Hurricane Irene. Of 154 nests examined during an aerial survey on 3 September thirty-six (23.4%) showed visible damage and Thirty-two (20.8%) were lost outright. Nest damage ranged from partial nest loss to nests that were tilted out of their support crotches in nest trees. Most nests that were lost were blown from trees with minimal damage to the tree itself. However, four nest trees were either snapped off or blown down. Overall, 44% of nests examined were either damaged or lost. Nest damage was widespread throughout the drainage but the heaviest damage was centered on Hopewell. Within 10 miles of Hopewell more than 45% of nests were lost. Along the James, nest damage and loss caused by Irene is similar to that documented in 2003 following Hurricane Isabel when 40% of nests were damaged or lost. Following Isabel, pairs that lost nests were both less likely to breed and less productive the following spring. Reproductive rates improved two years following the storm and were back to normal levels during the third breeding season. The impact of Irene on the breeding population is likely to be similar.

Dr. Bryan D. Watts Dr. Watts is the Director of the Center for Conservation Biology, College of William and Mary and Virginia Commonwealth University

Virginia Birds Volume 8 • Number 2 Page 5 Fall Reporting Period August 2011 — November 2011 Editor—Lenny Bankester 4113 33rd St S North Arlington, VA 22206 [email protected] Arlington, Culpepper, Fairfax, Fauquier, Loudoun, Madison, Prince William, Rappahannock, and Stafford Counties and the cities of Alexandria, Fairfax, Falls Church Manassas and Manassas Park.

he season began very wet, Eight Wild Turkeys were seen in 12 Aug and a single individual was at with the 10th wettest August Culpeper, an unusually high number for Woodberry Forest, Madison 7 Oct (LR). on record and Hurricane the county, 4 Sept (EM). A Northern A single Northern Harrier represented TIrene adding almost four inches of Bobwhite was also found in Culpeper the seasonal sighting for the species rain within the space of a few days. A 21 Aug (MAK). The high count for and was at the Woodward Turf Farm 9 Pied-billed Grebes came from Pohick Sep (FA). Sharp-shinned Hawks and high level of precipitation continued Bay Regional Park, Fairfax (RM), with Cooper’s Hawks were sighted in small through much of the season, until 30 seen 28 Nov, more than double the numbers throughout the season (JS, November when it became excep- typical seasonal average count in the TB, ED, DL). Red-shouldered Hawks, tionally dry. Temperatures generally Region. The high count for Double- on the other hand, were spotted and averaged at or slightly above normal. crested Cormorants was 255 Fairfax 30 reported frequently during September Just under 200 species were reported Oct (DB). Pairs of Great-blue Herons and October (PR, FA, NN, TJ). through birders’ observations in the were seen 13 Aug (EM) and 17 Oct Remarkably, two individuals represents Region. (LR), numbers that are unexpectedly the reported high count for Red-tailed low for the season. Little Blue Herons Hawks 4 Oct (TB), though this may be Abbreviations: Dyke Marsh (Dyke were found at both Huntley 27 Aug due to under-reporting of a species that Marsh Wildlife Preserve, Fairfax); Smith (LM) and Occoquan (AP). A single is typically common. A Golden Eagle, (Fort C. F. Smith Park, Arlington); Green Heron was reported from the uncommon in the Region, was seen Huntley (Huntley Meadows Park, Woodward Turf Farm in Culpeper 9 at the Phoebe Hall Knipling Outdoor Fairfax); Mason Neck (Mason Neck Sep (FA). Both Black-crowned and Laboratory 2 Nov (NH). Another SP, Fairfax); Occoquan (Occoquan Bay Yellow-crowned Night-Herons were uncommon species, Peregrine Falcon, NWR, Prince William); Roaches Run reported; the black-crowned high count was spotted in Culpeper 9 Sep (DL), (Roaches Run Waterfowl Sanctuary, was three in Arlington 19 Aug (TB) Fairfax 26 Sep (HG), and Loudoun 3 Arlington); Thompson (G. R. and the yellow-crowned reports were Nov (KC). Thompson WMA, Fauquier). of singles in Alexandria 2 Aug (TB) and Loudoun 5 Sep (MAK). Glossy RAILS—FLYCATCHERS DUCKS—RAPTORS Ibises were seen along Hunting Creek There was a scattering of rail, with in Alexandria twice in August; one Six American Black Ducks were found four Soras found at Huntley 17 Oct bird on 6 Aug (EM) and two on 29 at the Ashby Pond Conservation site (HG), single Common Gallinules Aug (BJ). Ten Ospreys were seen at in Fairfax City 13 Sep (SH). The high at Huntley and Occoquan Bay 15 the Portovecchio Condominiums in count for Mallards was 675 at Dyke Oct and 25 Sep (MB, LC), and four Alexandria 31 Jul (MD), somewhat Marsh 16 Oct (SS). Flocks of Northern American Coots in Fauquier 21 Nov higher than the Regional average of 5-6 Shovelers were found in Fairfax during (TD). While Black-bellied Plovers are individuals per day. Five Mississippi the first week of October (DB, TD). relatively uncommon in the Region, Kites were in Fairfax 23 Aug (FA), Belvoir Pond, Fairfax was host to 12 this season produced two sightings both about double the typical average daily American Wigeons and 3 Surf Scoters at grass farms: one bird at the Kettle count. Bald Eagle sightings tended to 4 Nov (TD). Aquia Landing, Stafford Run Sod Farm, Prince William 8 Sep be regular, even if individual numbers in had the high count for Common (LC) and six at the Remington Turf those sightings were limited. Three were Mergansers with eight on 9 Nov (MC). farm, Fauquier 9 Sep (EM). American found at Hunting Creek, Alexandria Golden-Plovers were reported in

Page 6 Virginia Birds Volume 8 • Number 2 early Sep in Culpeper – high count of Willow in Fairfax 8 Aug (LM); and William 6 Oct (DL) and Fauquier 22 ten (EM), Fauquier (EM), and Prince Least in Madison 3 Sep (DLe) and Oct (RT). The high count for Nashville William (MAK). Woodward Turf Farm Prince William 5 Sep (AB). Warblers was five in Arlington 16 Oct had 3 Semipalmated Plovers on 9 Sep (EM) and for Chestnut-sided Warblers (FA), an impressive 150 Killdeer 22 LARKS—SPARROWS was eight at Dyke Marsh 25 Sep (PR). Oct (EM), 52 Hudsonian Godwits Horned Larks made a robust A count of 14 Magnolia Warblers 9 Sep (DL), an American Avocet 9 appearance with 85 seen 21 Aug in at Huntley 16 Oct (BJ) was not only Sep (FA), and 2 Lesser Yellowlegs 9 Culpeper (MAK). Another Hurricane above average but occurred during a Sep (FA). Greater Yellowlegs were Irene observation was 4 Cliff Swallows period when migration typically begins fairly abundant near Hunting Creek and 13 Bank Swallows seen flying declining. Other warbler observations Bridge, where 20 were seen 29 Aug over Roaches Run, Arlington 28 Aug were 8 Black-throated Blue Warblers (BJ). A single Ruddy Turnstone was at (DF). High counts for swallows were at Huntley 2 Oct (DB), one Blackpoll the Belle Haven Picnic Area, near the 30 Northern Rough-winged at Great Warbler along the Potomac Heritage Potomac River in Fairfax 28 Aug (EM). Falls National Park, Fairfax 2 Oct Trail, Arlington 2 Oct (LF & AS), Woodward Turf Farm was the site of (MR) and a remarkable sighting of and three Blackburnian Warblers at another regionally uncommon shore 225 Barn Swallows in Culpeper 21 Huntley 18 Sep (JL). A single Summer bird, when a Short-billed Dowitcher Aug (MAK). Four Common Ravens Tanager was at Algonkian Regional was spotted 9 Sep (FA). Two Red- were spotted in Fairfax 20 Nov (SB), Park, Loudoun 21 Sep (BB) and 7 necked Phalaropes were reported from indicating that scattered sightings of Blue Grosbeaks were at Woodward Pohick Bay Regional Park, not far from the species may amount to a solidifying Turf Farm 13 Aug (EM).The one-day Mason Neck, 27 Aug (FA). Notable gull presence in the Region. Winter Wren high count for Savannah Sparrows sightings were 14 Bonaparte’s Gulls at made a timely return to the area along was seven at Meadowood Recreation Lake Royal, Fairfax 18 Sep (AD) and the Potomac Heritage Trail, Arlington Area, Fairfax 23 Oct (EM) and for 3650 Laughing Gulls at Hunting Creek 2 Oct (LF &AS). The high count for Grasshopper Sparrows was two at the Bridge 18 Aug (SS). TheLaughing Gull each kinglet species was 20 at Great Woodward Turf Farm in Culpeper 13 count was below the Regional record of Falls National Park, Fairfax 30 Oct Aug (EM). Three Swamp Sparrows 7325. Probably the result of Hurricane (MR). Two Gray-cheeked Thrushes were found along the Potomac Heritage Irene, a Black Tern was at Roaches Run were at Huntley 25 Sep (BJ) and two Trail, Arlington 23 Oct (LF & AS). (DF) and a PARASITIC JAEGER was Hermit Thrushes were on Dark Hollow at Burke Lake Park, (NN) Fairfax 28 Falls Trail in Shenandoah NP 6 Oct Contributors: Aug. Yellow-billed Cuckoos were seen (TJ). Lake Fairfax, Fairfax was host Vince Ascrizzi, Frederick Atwood, on their way south at Smith 10 Sep to 30 Gray Catbirds 13 Sep (BB). Scott Baron, David Boltz, Lori Bowes, (LB). Owl sightings included: a Barn The only reports of Brown Thrashers Michael Bowen, Ashley Bradford, Owl at Sky Meadows 22 Oct (RT); an were from Rappahannock 13 Aug (SB) Thomas Brooks, Bill Brown, Kathy Eastern Screech-Owl in Fauquier 7 Aug and Arlington 3 Oct (TB). The high Calvert, Maria Cannata, Emily Caven, (SB); two sightings of Great Horned count for American Pipits was 200 in Linda Chittum, Sheila Cochran, Ann Owls during October in Fairfax and Fauquier 21 Nov (TD). Vireo reports Driscoll, Todd Day, Ellen Dockery, Fauquier (LC, SB); and 4 Barred were of five white-eyeds in Fauquier; Matt Dufort, David Farner, Linda Fields Owls in Fairfax 9 Nov (EC). The 20 blue-headeds in both Loudoun 20 Sep and Alan Schreck, Harry Glasgow, Neil Common Nighthawks seen in a single (BB) and Arlington 22 Oct (NVBC); Heinekamp, Steve Hersey, Ben Jessup, day in Fairfax 1 Sep (PK) gave some yellow-throateds in Culpeper (MAK); Thomas Jones, Phil Kenny, Mary Alice impression of the abundance for which and a scattering of Philadelphias in Koeneke, David Larsen, Daniel Lebbin, the species used to be famous. Large Prince William 11 Sep (PK), Fairfax James Lewis, Richard Margulieux, numbers of migrating Chimney Swifts 18 Sep (MV), Loudoun 24 Sep (SC), Larry Meade, Elton Morel, Nicholas were seen; 300 in Arlington 28 Sep (TB) and Arlington 29 Sep (PR). A pair Newberry, Northern Virginia Bird and 500 in Fairfax 7 Oct (SB). Ruby- of Blue-winged Warblers was seen Club, Amy Phelan, Marshall Rawson, throated Hummingbirds were plentiful at Smith 10 Sep (LB). There were Leighton Reed, Peter Ross, Jane Starkey, in Fairfax 14 Aug, with 33 individuals a surprising number of reports of Sherman Suter, Russell Taylor, and seen. Four Eastern Wood-Pewees was Tennessee Warblers from 3 Sep–16 Martha Vandervoort. the high count from Culpeper 9 Sep Oct in Madison (DLe), Fairfax (AD), (FA). Three species of flycatcher were Prince William (NVBC), Loudoun reported this fall: Yellow-bellied in (VA), Arlington (EM), and Fauquier Leesylvania State Park, Prince William (SB). Orange-crowned Warblers were 3 Sep (MAK) and Smith, 29 Sep (PR); spotted in migration through Prince

Virginia Birds Volume 8 • Number 2 Page 7 Editor—Clyde Kessler P.O. Box 3612 West Radford, VA 24141 [email protected] Frederick, Clarke, Warren, Shenandoah, Page, Rocking- ham, Augusta, Highland, Bath Rockbridge, Botetourt Alleghany, Craig, Giles, Roanoke, Montgomery and Pulaski Counties.

Abbreviations: Fenwick (Fenwick of the month. Four Black-crowned Airport, Pulaski 28 Nov (SB & MB). Mines, Craig); Claytor (Claytor Lake, Night-Herons were in Waynesboro, Fall warbler sightings included: a Pulaski). Augusta 14 August (AL). A Common Nashville Warbler in Wildwood Gallinule was seen a few times from 3 Park, Radford 5 Oct and a Mourning WATERFOWL—SANDPIPERS – 31 Aug in Waynesboro ( AL & WL). Warbler there 6 Oct (CK); single Observations at several Augusta lakes A Baird’s Sandpiper was with six Least Wilson’s Warblers at Fenwick 3 Sep and ponds produced a new local Sandpipers at a retention pond on the (WT), by Greenfield Lake, Botetourt fall peak count of 66 Gadwall 16 Virginia Tech Campus, Montgomery 13 13 Sep and at Mill Mountain Park, November (AL). Two female Northern Aug (JW). A Sora was found skulking Roanoke 20 Sep (WT) and two observed Shovelers were photographed at Claytor along the edge of the same pond 14 Aug in Wildwood Park, Radford 1 Oct 25 Nov and a single Common Loon (JW). (CK). One Summer Tanager was was there that same day (SB). An noted at Fenwick 6 Sep (WT) and one Eared Grebe was at the Waste Water OWLS—SPARROWS was photographed at Claytor 18 Sep Treatment Plant in Stuarts Draft, A Long-eared Owl in Waynesboro, (MM). A Clay-colored Sparrow was Augusta 16–17 November (AL & Augusta 29 Sep furnished a first fall also photographed at Claytor 22 Sep GM). The Rockfish Gap Hawkwatch, record for that county (EC). One (MM). A Lincoln’s Sparrow was found Augusta tallied 100 Double-crested Olive-sided Flycatcher was observed at at Fenwick 4 Oct (WT). Cormorants on 4 Nov (m.ob.). On Fenwick 6 Sep (WT). A Philadelphia 3 Aug two White Ibis were found Vireo was seen and heard singing at Contributers: Bob Abraham, Mary along the New River near Parrott, Fenwick 4 Oct (WT) and another was Ann Bentley, Stan Bentley, Elaine Pulaski (BA) and one was also seen seen on the Virginia Tech campus, Carwile, Clyde Kessler, Allen Larner, near Hiwassee, Pulaski (SB & MM). Montgomery 6 Oct (CK). A Loggerhead William Leigh, Gabriel Mapel, Mark The two at Parrott stayed for most Shrike was observed near the NRV Mullins, West Teets, JD Willson.

Page 8 Virginia Birds Volume 8 • Number 2 Editor—C. Michael Stinson 437 Wildflower Lane Central Dillwyn, VA 23936 [email protected] Albemarle, Amherst, Bedford, Campbell, Caroline, Fluvanna, Goochland, Greene, Hanover, Louisa, Nel- son, Orange, Powhatan, and Spotsylvania Counties; and the cities of Charolttesville, Fredericksburg, and Lynchburg. Major excitement this fall was pro- vided by the passage of Hurricane Irene to our east and the presence of two species of kites, Swallow-tailed and Mississippi, that were enjoyed by many observers in Campbell. Aside from these highlights, an assortment of fall migrants was reported across the Region, but passerine reports were relatively few and the total number of observations reported was, as for the summer season, still fairly low. DUCKS—KITES An early Green-winged teal was at Two Swallow-tailed Kites in Campbell County were seen and photographed by Lickinghole Cr. Pond, Albemarle, 2 many birders from mid-August to early September. Sept (SM). On 17 Nov at Mill Cr. L., Photograph by Adam D'Onofrio Amherst a group of approximately 300 ducks included several Redhead, 5 Lynchburg/Campbell border, three days for the attractiveness of this spot to Surf Scoters, and one Common of counts 16-18 Sep yielded 222 broad- multiple kites has been offered. Goldeneye, all uncommon to rare in wingeds, an average of 18.5 per hour of the Region, along with more numer- observation. And in downtown Char- RAILS—HUMMINGBIRD ous Lesser Scaup, Bufflehead, and lottesville, 844 broad-wingeds were ob- Reports of rails were scarce as usual; American Wigeon (MJ). A group of served passing overhead during a sin- a Virginia Rail calling 9 Oct at King about two dozen Horned Grebes, also gle day count 17 Sept (DS). On 13 Aug Family Vineyard, Albemarle (PM) and at Mill Cr. L. 17 Nov, was the most a SWALLOW-TAILED KITE was two Soras calling 4 Oct at Bentivar significant report of this species (MJ). reported at a farm near Gladys, Camp- Marsh, Albemarle (SM) were thus note- Though the species has become more bell (Dave Dawson, fide TD), and on 15 worthy. A rare Piedmont migrant, the common coastally in Virginia, White Aug two individuals were found there, Red-necked Phalarope near Benti- Ibis is still rare inland, so two reports with two seen repeatedly until 24 Aug var, Albemarle 7 Sep provided only the of this species present at the same (m.ob.) and a single bird remaining second county record (SM, ph. PM). time are of note. On 13 Aug an imm. until at least 4 Sept (DS, ES). Observ- A Lesser Black-backed Gull found 27 was seen at Collins Pond in Caroline ers soon noticed that one of the kites Aug at N. Anna Power Station on L. (NR, BP), while two imms. were seen was wearing an antenna, leading to its Anna, Lousia was the most notable gull on the S. Rivanna Res., Albemarle on identification as one of several that had report (MB). This bird was recorded several dates from early Aug-15 Aug been tagged as nestlings by researchers along with several other species ap- (Leigh Surkudowski et al., fide SM). in South Carolina in June 2009. As if parently displaced by Hurricane Irene, At Harvey’s Knob, on the Blue Ridge the Swallow-tailed Kites were not ex- though Lesser Black-backed Gulls have Parkway along the Bedford/Botetourt citing enough, they were often joined been seen at L. Anna on previous oc- border, 10226 Broad-winged Hawks by one, two, or even three Mississippi casions. Other birds found at the same were counted beginning 16 Aug, with Kites from 18 Aug until 4 Sept (m.ob.). location as Irene’s center passed to the a peak count of 3840 on 28 Sept and Both species were repeatedly photo- southeast were, most notably, 2 ad. final, single stragglers on 17 and 26 graphed. No satisfactory explanation SOOTY TERNS, 5 Caspian Terns, Oct. At Candlers Mountain, near the Virginia Birds Volume 8 • Number 2 Page 9 35 Common Terns, and one Royal SM). Seldom reported in the Region, 5 Sept (WE). Two Dickcissels were Tern (all MB). Also, 6 Forster’s Terns though presumably a regular migrant, found 19 Aug in s. Albemarle near the were seen the afternoon of 27 Aug a Marsh Wren was at Bentivar Marsh, area where they apparently nested in over downtown Charlottesville as Hur- Albemarle 4 Oct (SM). Notable reports the spring (SM). ricane Irene passed (DS). The latest of migrant warblers were few, though Contributors: Michael Boatwright, Ruby-throated Hummingbirds were several species were reported within Rexanne Bruno, Thelma Dalmas, Wen- reported 9 Oct in both n. Bedford (RB) expected migration dates. Interesting dy Ealding, Mark Johnson, Stauffer and Powhatan (WE). reports included Golden-winged War- Miller, Bill Portlock, Nancy Raybin, blers at Ivy Cr. Natural Area, Charlot- David Shoch, David Spears, Evan FLYCATCHERS—DICKCISSEL tesville 2 Sept (P. Brask, fide SM) and Spears. An Olive-sided Flycatcher, a scarce Stoney Point Pass, ne. Albemarle, 4 Sept migrant, was photographed at Mint (SM), and a Chestnut-sided Warbler Springs Park, Albemarle 2 Sept (ph. in Powhatan, where seldom reported, Central Region Summer Report June–July 2011

This report covering the summer period, June 2011-July 2011, was unintentionally left out of the last issue of Virginia Birds. We apologize to the editor and our readers.

The breeding season was hotter than average, especially July and rain was scattered. Whether the weather discouraged bird- er activity or unusual birds were scarce is not clear, but few reports were received with a smattering of late migrants and vagrants providing the most noteworthy observations. Powhatan, 4 Jun, was white-lored (WE WATERFOWL–SANDPIPERS FLYCATCHERS–WARBLERS et al.). Such individuals are often iden- Two late Buffleheads were at Lake At least one Willow Flycatcher was tified as subspecies albilora and are less Anna SP, Spotsylvania, 7 Jun (AD et calling at The Summit, a residential expected here than yellow-lored indi- al.); otherwise no reports of unusual community in Lynchburg, on 11 Jun viduals, though the true significance waterfowl were received. A WOOD (MJ) and 12 Jun (MS). Purple Mar- of these differences is not fully under- STORK was video recorded on a tins, at nests and feeding young, and stood and recent research suggests that private property in w. Albemarle on 21 Tree Swallows, probably breeding, supraloral color is not an adequate Jun (fide DS). The bird was searched were among other species also found basis for subspecific distinctions in this for, but not seen, on subsequent days. there on those dates (MJ, MS). Cliff species. A Northern Harrier at Rivanna Dam, Swallows nested along the James R. Albemarle 29 June was a surprise (PM); near Gladstone and Wingina on the Contributors: Andrew Dolby, Wendy the species is not expected there in Nelson border (MS) and were present Ealding, Mark Johnson, Pete Myers, summer. Solitary Sandpiper, Lesser from the beginning of the season until David Shoch, Mike Stinson. Yellowlegs, and Least Sandpiper, one at least mid-Jul. The species now nests of each species, were at King Family at scattered locations along the James Vineyards, Albemarle, 29 Jul (PM); from the Blue Ridge downstream presumably fall migrants, they were almost to Richmond. A well-seen the only ones reported this season. Yellow-throated Warbler at Belmead,

Page 10 Virginia Birds Volume 8 • Number 2 Editor—Fred Atwood Flint Hill School, 10409 Academic Drive East Oakton, VA 22124 [email protected] Essex, Gloucester, King George, King William, King and Queen, Matthews, Middlesex, Northumberland, Richmond, and Westmoreland Counties. Note that the northern and eastern shores of the Northern Neck overlook Maryland waters.

Guest Editors: Jacob Barkett, Sayed as an intern for a Smithsonian warm to the north, waterfowl and Malawi, and Nicholas Newberry. researcher studying Song Sparrows. He winter sparrows tended to arrive later went to VENT’s Camp Chiriquahua and in smaller numbers that usual. Meet the Guest Editors a few summers ago and spent his Hurricane Irene brought many terns sophomore year in Switzerland. He is and shorebirds further inland than Jacob Barkett is a senior at Pope an avid eBirder and adopted the local normal and Tropical Storm Lee, a week John Paul the Great and has been very Difficult Run Stream Valley Park as his and a half later, dropped 29 inches of interested in birds since before he local patch. rain in 60 hours in some parts of the moved here from North Carolina as a Region. freshman. He has participated in the Abbreviations: Beaverdam (Beaverdam Birders tallied an impressive list of Cornell Young Birders Program, has Park, Gloucester); Bethel (Bethel Beach 231 species during the season. The helped with several waterfowl surveys Natural Area Preserve, Mathews); most remarkable highlights included and Christmas Bird Counts, and is Beulahville (upper King William); Greater White-fronted Goose, Eared usually the record keeper on the teen Birthplace (George Washington’s Grebe, Mississippi Kite, Golden bird club field trips. He has avidly Birthplace National Monument, Eagle, Cattle Egret, Marbled Godwit, birded his campus as his “local patch” Westmoreland); Caledon (Caledon American Avocet, Stilt Sandpiper, Black and has been trying to get his school- Natural Area, King George), Dameron Skimmer, Common Gallinule, Olive- friends interested in birding. (Dameron Marsh Natural Area sided Flycatcher, Common Raven, Preserve, Northumberland); Dogue Blue-winged Warbler, Orange-crowned Sayed Malawi is a junior at Thomas (Cleve Rd area, King George); Warbler, Clay-colored Sparrow, and Jefferson High School of Science Guinea Marsh (Gloucester); Hughlett Yellow-headed Blackbird. and Technology (TJ) and has been (Hughlett Point Natural Area Preserve, interested in birds ever since he saw a Northumberland); K. G. Ponds (ponds WATERFOWL—GREBES Short-eared Owl in middle school. He along route 3 near Sealston, King The first Tundra Swans, a group of spent a year in Qatar where he started George); Leedstown (Westmoreland); four, arrived 23 Oct at Beaverdam filming birds and has set up a YouTube Maryus-Guinea (Maryus-Guinea Loop, (GH); the largest group of the season channel http://www.youtube.com/user/ Gloucester); Mulberry (Mulberry Island consisted of 39 birds, on the small Owler2010?feature=mhum. He went to Private Hunting Preserve Richmond); side for the season high count. Forty the National Audubon Society Hog Muse (end of Muse Rd, Rte 624 Snow Geese (only four white) flew Island Teen Camp last summer, and this overlooking the Potomac R.); New over Warsaw, Richmond 15 Nov (LA) summer he went to the Cornell Young Point Comfort (New Point Comfort and two blue morphs were found Birders Program. Natural Area Preserve, Mathews); among many Canada Geese at K.G. The Pocket (in Pamunkey Indian Ponds 14 Nov (TC, ph). A Greater Nick Newberry is a senior at Oakton Reservation along Pamunkey River, White-fronted Goose, most likely of High School. His interest in birds King William); Scout’s Pt (Fletcher’s the Greenland race, was at K.G. Ponds was greatly nourished by his teacher Chapel area, King George); South Haven from 13 Nov to 30 Nov (FA, m. ob.). Sean Duffy at Waples Mill Elementary (South Haven Beach, Mathews); Wilna Completing the four-goose season, School. He has become quite (Wilna Tract of Rappahannock River were two Cackling Geeseat K.G. experienced in bird banding, has helped Valley NWR, Richmond); Woodbury Ponds on 30 Nov (GM). The high with ASNV’s breeding bird survey and (Woodbury Rd, off Walkerton Rd, King count of 150 Green-winged Teal in several Christmas Bird Counts and William). Leedstown 25 Sep was low compared to waterfowl surveys and has volunteered the expected number of several hundred Because the temperatures stayed so

Virginia Birds Volume 8 • Number 2 Page 11 often seen at this time of year (FA). The of 41 for the area. Fifteen Horned high count for Ring-necked Ducks was Grebes, though not as spectacular approximately 4000 at K.G. Ponds 20 as their aforementioned cousin, was Nov (NVTBC), one of the only counts still a decent showing for this species. of waterfowl on par with, or in this Certainly one of the more exciting and case exceeding, the expected seasonal rare birds reported, a photographed highs. A striking trend of late waterfowl EARED GREBE, was a one- arrivals was shown by the following day wonder at K. G. Ponds 19 Aug species: 6 Gadwall 23 Oct Dogue (FA); (FA,TC). 2 Northern Pintail 25 Sep K.G. Ponds (FA); 35 Hooded Merganser 13 Nov HERONS—GULLS Singerly, Richmond (FA); one Ruddy The high count for Great Egret this Duck 8 Oct Beaverdam (GG); and season was nine at Elsing Green, King An eared grebe at K.G. Ponds, King 5 Canvasback 14 Nov K. G. Ponds William 6 Nov (FA); the last sighting George was only there for a single (TC). However, 3 Northern Shovelers was of three on 27 Nov at Maryus- day. Photograph by Frederick Atwood at South Haven on 28 Aug (RM) and Guinea (MB). Three Snowy Egrets were a single American Wigeon at Dogue recorded from Maryus-Guinea 23 Oct for the Region. American Coot count on 25 Sep (FA) broke the trend with (MB), both the highest and final count peaked at 2000 at Beaverdam 28 Nov rather early arrivals. The only two Blue- of the season. The only Little Blue (G&RH). The high count of Black- winged Teal of the fall were observed at Heron of the fall was seen at Hughlett bellied Plover was 13 in Mathews 8 Oct Hughlett 11 Sep (KB). Greater Scaup 11 Sept (KB). A lone Cattle Egret was (AB). American Golden-Plover was were hard to come by with only four recorded from Fickle Fen 24 Nov (MS). recorded three times: one at Leedstown sightings and a maximum count of Night-heron reports were few and far 28 Aug (FA), one at Woodbury 10 two at Beaverdam 18 Nov (G&RH) apart, with the last Black-crowned Sep (FA), and two more at Leedstown and K.G. Ponds 14 Nov (TC). A high Night-Heron at Mulberry 13 Nov (FA) 10 Sep (FA). Fifty-five Semipalmated of 1600 Surf Scoters at Hughlett on and the only Yellow-crowned Night- Plovers were seen 21 Aug at Bethel 20 Nov was a phenomenal count for Heron at South Haven 28 Aug (RM). (FA). Killdeer gathered en masse at this species, which very rarely exceeds The last Osprey left Gloucester 23 Oct Leedstown, with 480 seen 19 Aug 1000 (TS). Black Scoter, always a good (MB). A MISSISSIPPI KITE was a (FA); this is the highest count in eBird sighting and not reported here every fall, great find 10 Sep at Scout’s Point (TC) for the Region. American Avocet was was represented by five birds at Vir-Mar and furnished the first eBird report of seen twice, with seven at South Haven Beach, Northumberland on 8 Oct (LC). the species for this Region. The only 28 Aug (RM), an eBird Region high, The only Common Goldeneye reported Golden Eagle of the season was another and four at Bethel 10 Oct (DL). Two was one at K. G. Ponds 23 Nov (FA). exciting find at Beaverdam 13 Nov Marbled Godwits were recorded Four Red-breasted Mergansers at (G&RH). The high count of 53 Black from Bethel 29 Aug (G&RH). Also at Dameron on 25 Nov were the only ones Vultures at K. G. Ponds was lower Bethel were a high of 35 Sanderlings seen and no Common Mergansers than expected 20 Nov (m. obs). Merlin on 31 Oct (G&RH) and 5 Nov (EO). were reported. The 975 Ruddy Ducks was reported three times: single birds Forty-nine Semipalmated Sandpipers at K. G. Ponds 14 Nov was a very at Leedstown 23 Oct (FA), New Point were at Bethel 21 Aug (FA). Western strong showing for this species (TC). Comfort 5 Nov (m. obs), and Mulberry Sandpipers were seen three times: Twenty-five Wild Turkeys were 13 Nov (FA). A Peregrine Falcon two at Bethel 23 Aug (G&RH), two reported at five locations (FA, NF, at Bethel , 5 Sep (MB) was the only at Woodbury 10 Sep (FA), and three G&RH) throughout the period. report for the season. Mathews once at The Pocket 25 Nov (FA). Single Northern Bobwhites are still again had the high count for Clapper White-rumped Sandpipers were maintaining a toehold in the Region Rail with 22 on 21 Aug at Bethel (FA). recorded from Bethel 21 Aug (FA) with seven reports from five locations Six Virginia Rails were noted from and 5 Sep (MB), Dogue 25 Sep (FA), and a maximum count of seven birds Guinea Marsh, Gloucester 18 Oct (JS, and Leedstown 25 Sep (FA); four at at Fickle Fen 20 Nov (MS). Three NT). It was a strong year for Sora with Woodbury 10 Sep was an unusually Red-throated Loons were reported 26 and 17 reported on 25 Sep and 23 high number (FA). Baird’s Sandpipers at two locations, Dameron 25 Nov Oct, respectively, at Leedstown (FA). were observed three times: one at (TS) and Bethel 28 Nov (G&RH). One Common Gallinule, found at Leedstown 28 Aug and 10 Sep (FA) and An exceptional count of 56 Pied- the pond across the street from Frog two at Woodbury 10 Sep (FA). The high billed Grebes at K. G. Ponds on 14 Hollow Sod Farm, King William 10 Sep count of 17 Pectoral Sandpiper was at Nov, eclipsed the previous high count (FA), furnished the fourth eBird report Leedstown 28 Aug (FA) another new

Page 12 Virginia Birds Volume 8 • Number 2 high eBird count for the Region; two Regional highs were set at Bethel with 15 Brown-headed Nuthatches were were also recorded at Walkerton Bridge, 315 on 5 Sep (MB) and 518 on 10 Oct seen 5 Nov (DY). Carolina Wren, King and Queen 6 Nov (FA) the latest (G&RH). House Wren, Winter Wren, and Marsh eBird Region date. Stilt Sandpiper Wren were all reported. The last House was seen twice, with one at Bethel 23 DOVES—WAXWINGS Wren was seen 25 Nov at Dameron Aug (G&RH) and two at Woodbury The Mourning Dove high count was (TS). Winter Wrens arrived 5 Nov (m. 10 Sep (FA). The high count of Short- 150 in King and Queen 3 Sep (RM), obs). The last Marsh Wren was 13 Nov billed Dowitcher was 32 at Bethel 10 the first day of dove hunting season. at Mulberry (FA). One Ruby-crowned Sep (FA). American Woodcock was Only three species of owls were seen: Kinglet arrived a couple of days before recorded on 20 and 29 Nov on Fickle Barred Owl, Great Horned Owl, usual, 2 Oct, at Scout’s Pt. (TC). A Fen (MS). and Eastern Screech-Owl with a high late Blue-Gray Gnatcatcher was seen count of three at Beaverdam 30 Sep at Beaverdam 15 Oct (GH). A Veery Hurricane Irene displaced a large (G&RH). The sole record of Common was observed eating Dogwood berries number and variety of terns and Nighthawk was from Leedstown 10 at close view at Scout’s Pt. 5 Oct (TC). shorebirds on 28 and 29 Aug. Notable Sep (FA). Two female Ruby-throated Both a Gray-cheeked Thrush and a shorebird sightings were the afore- Hummingbirds persisted until 12 Swainson’s Thrush were at Caledon 8 mentioned 17 Pectoral Sandpipers Oct in Westmoreland (P&JN). The first Oct (LC). American Robin numbers at Leedstown, 2 Marbled Godwits Yellow-bellied Sapsucker was seen at were very low with the highest count at Bethel, and 7 American Avocets Beaverdam 7 Oct along with a single being 150 at Haynes Millpond, at South Haven. However, it was the Olive-sided Flycatcher (G&RH), Gloucester 10 Nov (G&RH). Likewise, influx of terns that demonstrated the exceeding the previous extreme date Cedar Waxwings were present in fairly effect of the hurricane. Many terns were of 30 Sep for the flycatcher. The only low numbers; the highcount was 125 found much further inland than usual, Acadian Flycatcher was heard calling at Scout’s Pt 10 Nov (TC). A late Gray notably at K. G. Ponds and far up the at Leedstown 25 Sep, a bit later than Catbird stayed at Maryus-Guinea until Rappahannock in Leedstown. Three usual, and an early Yellow-bellied 27 Nov (MB). Least Terns were at K. G. Ponds 28 Aug Flycatcher was seen at Beulahville 21 (FA) and the largest count of Caspian Aug (FA). In fifteen reports for Eastern WARBLERS—FINCHES Tern there was 13 on 28 Aug (FA); two Kingbird from 19 Aug-9 Sep, 73 Thirty species of warblers were observed: Caspian Tern were also at Bethel 29 individuals were seen, and 32 of them at A Blue-winged Warbler, rare in Aug (G&RH). Many Black Terns were Leedstown 28 Aug, the second highest the Region, was at Mastons Wharf, blown inland as well, with six at K. G. Region count on eBird (FA). Could Lancaster 11 Sep (KB). Other Vermivora Ponds (FA) and two at Leedstown, (FA), this concentration have been related seen were Tennessee Warbler at all on Aug 28. Common Tern sightings to Hurricane Irene? A late White-eyed Beaverdam (G&RH); Nashville included five at Leedstown 28 Aug (FA), Vireo was seen 13 Nov at Dogue (FA). Warbler at King George 5 Oct (TC); and four at Bethel 29 Aug (G&RH). Other vireos include the less common Orange-crowned Warbler 15 Oct at The largest count of Forster’s Tern was Blue-headed Vireo, one at Dogue Beaverdam (G&RH) and 25 Nov at a shocking 247, ten times the usual high and two at Leedstown 23 Oct (FA), a The Pocket (FA). Warblers that were count, Leedstown 28 Aug, (FA). Royal Warbling Vireo at Beaverdam 5 Oct reported later than the average dates Terns were prevalent as well, recorded (G&RH), and a Philadelphia Vireo were: Northern Parula 25 Oct, Yellow in three counties; sightings included 12 25 Sep at Muse (FA). Surprisingly, the Warbler and Cape May Warbler 27 at K. G. Ponds and 29 at Leedstown highest count for American Crow was a Oct Gloucester (JS); Chestnut-sided 28 Aug (FA), and 29 at Bethel 29 Aug mere 15 at Beaverdam 3 Sep (G&RH). Warbler 9 Oct Gloucester (G&RH); (G&RH). Two Sandwich Terns were But the high of 145 Fish Crows in Black-throated Blue Warbler and Bay- recorded from South Haven 28 Aug Leedstown 19 Aug (FA) far exceeded breasted Warbler 22 Oct Gloucester (RM). Irene also brought in the only the Region’s previous eBird high of 15. (G&RH); Blackburnian Warbler sighting of Black Skimmer this fall, Two COMMON RAVENS spotted 14 Oct Gloucester (G&RH); Yellow- with three at Bethel 29 Aug (G&RH). vocalizing and intermixing with eagles throated Warbler Beaverdam 3 Sep There are only three previous eBird and crows At K. G. Ponds 21 Nov (G&RH); Pine Warbler New Point reports of skimmers in the Region. Gull furnished the first report of the species Comfort 5 Nov (EO); Prairie Warbler sightings were relatively normal, with for the Region (PN). The highest count Beaverdam 6 Oct (GG); Blackpoll the high count of Bonaparte’s Gull of Purple Martin was a dreary 14 at Warbler Gloucester 27 Oct (G&RH), being eight at K. G. Ponds 13 Nov Walkerton 21 Aug (FA); but there were and Kentucky Warbler and Hooded (FA). Great Black-backed Gulls usually no reports from last year’s roost on the Warbler Scout’s Pt. 19 Sep (TC). The peak at this time of year but new eBird Pamunkey R. At New Point Comfort, highest count of the season by far for

Virginia Birds Volume 8 • Number 2 Page 13 Black-and-white Warbler was seven highest count for American Goldfinch at Hills Quarter Lancaster (FS) and came from King and Queen numbering the last Black-and-White Warbler left 50 on 3 Sep (RM). Gloucester 21 Oct (G&RH). Thirty-four American Redstarts were recorded in Observers: Frederick Atwood, Lee 10 reports from 24 Aug–15 Oct with Adams, Kathy Bearden, Arun Bose, the highest count being 17 flocked in Meredith Bell, Linda Chittum, a pecan tree at Beaverdam 6 Oct (m. Tiffany Corsello, Nicholas Flanders, obs). The first Yellow-rumped Warbler Fredericksburg Bird Club (FBC), was seen 2 Oct at Scout’s Pt. (TC) Geoffrey Giles; George and Rosemarie with the highest count of the season Harris; Diane Lepkowski, Jan 270 at Bethel 31 Oct (G&RH). Three Lockwood; Gabriel Mapel; Robert Northern Waterthrush were seen at McLemore; Pam and John Narney, Beulahville 10 Sep (FA). A Wilson’s Northern Virginia Teen Bird Club Warbler was spotted at Dogue 25 Sep (NVTBC), Ellison Orcutt, Tom (FA). A Canada Warbler was seen at Saunders, Frank Shaff, Mark Sopko, Scout’s Pt. 24 Aug (TC). Joshua Stone, Nicole Trimmer, David Five late Summer Tanagers were seen 3 Wilcox, David Youker Oct at Scout’s Pt. fighting with catbirds and cardinals to eat dogwood berries (TC). Thirteen species of sparrow were reported. Highlights included one Clay-colored Sparrow at Scout’s Pt. 28 Oct (TC); one Seaside Sparrow 27 Nov at Maryus-Guinea (MB); one Fox Sparrow 5 Nov at New Point Comfort (GG, JL); 5 Lincoln’s Sparrows at three locations single birds in Dogue and Leedstown 23 Oct (FA) and three at K. G. Ponds 14 Nov (TC); and 102 Swamp Sparrow at Leedstown 23 Oct (FA). White-throated Sparrows arrival was noted 8 Oct at Scout’s Pt. (TC). The first White-crowned Sparrows were not seen until 23 Oct at Leedstown (FA). The first report of Dark-eyed Juncos was of six birds at Maryus-Guinea (MB) 23 Oct, a month later than expected. Five Rose- breasted Grosbeaks were seen at Hills Quarter, Lancaster 28 Sep (FS). A single Dickcissel at Wilna 2 Aug, was the only report of the season (NF). A season- high of 104 Bobolink was tallied 9 Sep at King George (TC) and the last report was from Mathews 8 Oct (AB). A first winter/immature YELLOW-HEADED BLACKBIRD was spotted near Naylor’s Beach, Richmond in a large flock of Red-winged Blackbirds and starlings 6 Nov (PN, FBC). The only Orchard Oriole reported was one at Wilna 5 Aug (NF). A Baltimore Oriole was at Scout’s Pt. 30 Sep (TC). The

Page 14 Virginia Birds Volume 8 • Number 2 Editor—Roger and Lynda Mayhorn HC Box 44A Southwest Pilgrims Knob, VA 24634 [email protected] Bland, Buchanan, Carroll, Dickenson, Floyd, Grayson, Lee, Russell, Scott, Smyth, Tazewell, Washington, Wise and Wythe Counties.

he weather for Southwest WB, CC, WC, LC, GE, DK, RL, MS). Rails—Blackbirds Virginia during the four month FOS Eared Grebes returned for their A Sora was discovered in the wetlands period was relatively mild with 18th year to their wintering area at of Sugar Hollow Park, Washington 30 TAugust having an average temperature SHL. One was discovered 11 Oct (RK) Aug (DR, SR). A second was found of 75° F, September 68°, October 56° and four were in the same area 14 Oct on a farm near Galax in Grayson 23 and November 51°. There were seven (Ri K et al). A late report and a photo Sep (WD). Five-hundred American days of precipitation in August, 10 of a possible WESTERN GREBE in Coots were discovered on Falls Mill L., in September, six days in October Washington in March 2011 was made Tazewell 11 Nov (J&J P) and 75 were including an early snow and 11 days public. The bird was found on a small observed at Clear Crk. L., Washington in November. Interesting sightings for pond near the Middle Fork Holston R. 17 Nov (MS). During the Mendota the period included White-winged and (DA). A Black-crowned Night Heron Hawk Watch in Russell a Sandhill Surf Scoters; Eared Grebes returning to and a Double-crested Cormorant were Crane was observed flying south over their wintering waters for the18th year; observed at RRL 16 Aug. (JM). An Mendota Valley 10 Sep (RH, JMe). 101 Wilson’s Phalaropes; Bald Eagles in Osprey, an imm Bald Eagle and 41 Twenty-four Dunlin were observed six counties; Golden Eagle; Peregrine Broad-winged Hawks were observed in at a pond on Lake Rd. near SHL Falcon; Sandhill Crane; Eurasian Breaks Community, Buchanan 19 Sep 16 Nov (WC). Three Black-bellied Collared-Dove; and Wilson’s Warbler (DR). An Osprey was on the Clinch Plovers, one Semipalmated Plover, A late report and a photo from March R. in Scott 9 Oct (BC). Other Bald and 101 Wilson’s Phalaropes were 2011of a possible Western Grebe in Eagle observations included one at among a flock of birds at Spring Crk., Washington was made public. SHL 18 Aug (WC, MS), two there 27 Washington 5 Sep (RC). A FOS Black Aug (RB et.al), and another on 5 Sep Tern was observed at Spring Crk. Abbreviations: BP (Breaks Interstate (WC, RC, RL); one on the Clinch R. 11 Aug (WC). The rare sighting of a Park, Dickenson); RRL (Rural Retreat near Clinchport, Scott 8 Oct (BC); an Eurasian Collared Dove in Russell Lake); SHL ( South Holston Lake, immature flying overhead at Breaks, occurred 24 Sep (TH). Two FOS Washington ) Buchanan 3 Oct (DR); one observed Common Nighthawks were observed flying up the Levisa R. near Grundy 6 over Compton Mt., Buchanan 19 Waterfowl—Raptors Oct (N&C D); a basic III transition Aug (RM). At a farm near Galax 906 Two Green-winged Teal and 9 Ring- immature found at Clifton Farms, Common Nighthawks were counted necked Ducks were found at the Falls Russell 16 Nov (TH); and an adult 26 Aug (WD). There was a late Mill L. in Tazewell 11 Nov along with 2 observed arranging sticks in a nest at report of the discovery of a Ruby- Hooded Mergansers and 2 Common Burkes Garden, Tazewell 19 Nov (SB), throated Hummingbird nest with Mergansers (J&J P). Eleven Common where they have nested for at least 3 two nestlings in a White Oak tree on Goldeneyes, Six White-winged Scoters years. A Golden Eagle was seen from Rt Round Mt., Bland 14 Jul (RyM, TW). and 2 Surf Scoters, uncommon but 80 in Russell 17 Sep (RCBC). A single A Loggerhead Shrike was found at not rare visitors, appeared on SHL Peregrine Falcon was over the canyon Forty Foot Bridge in Elk Garden of at Washington County Park 17 Nov in the BP 14 Aug (LM, RM, EKIII, Russell 16 Nov (TH, LH). Several FOS (WC, MS). Eight Lesser Scaup and NW). One was seen diving on a Black Swainson’s Thrusheswere discovered 19 Horned Grebes were observed on Tern near Spring Crk., Washington 25 on a baywood farm in Grayson 5 Sep Clear Creek L. in Washington 17 Nov Aug (MS) and another was found at (MD). A male Wilson’s Warbler, (MS). A FOS Pied-billed Grebe and a Spring Crk. 5 Sep (WC, RC, RL). unusual for the area, was observed in FOS Sanderling were found at Musick’s a stand of giant ragweed in Breaks of Campground on SHL 27 Aug (RB, Buchanan 11 Sep (DR). The annual

Virginia Birds Volume 8 • Number 2 Page 15 fall migration count on Compton Mt., (SJR). Also in Grayson FOS Swamp, Wilma Boy, Bill Cawood, Carolyn Buchanan occurred between 23 Aug and White-throated and White-crowned Coffey, Wallace Coffey, Lois Cox, 15 Oct with 41 actual counting days. Sparrows came to a baywood farm near Rack Cross, Nick & Camelia Davis, (RM). A total of 66 species and 2036 Galax 6 Oct (MD). Two FOS Lincoln’s Margaret Dunson, William Dunson, birds passed through with 24 species Sparrows appeared at the same farm 9 Glen Eller, Ron Harrington, Laverne of warblers. The top 10 warbler species Oct (MD). Over 100 Bobolinks were Hunter, Tom Hunter, Emerson Kirby counted in order of abundance were in a weedy field there 23 Sep (MD). A III, David Kirschke, Rick Knight (Ri Tennessee Warbler - 23, Cape May lone Rusty Blackbird came to a field K), Roy Knispel, Roger Lemaster, Lynda Warbler - 61, Yellow-rumped Warbler in the Breaks Community, Buchanan Mayhorn, Roger Mayhorn, Ryan Mays - 52, Magnolia Warbler - 39, Yellow- 22 Oct. (DR). A second rusty appeared (RyM), Jennifer Meade (JMe), Jim throated Warbler - 29, Worm-eating at the same home 29 Nov (DR). An Minick, Jim and Judy Phillips, David Warbler - 21, Black-throated Green estimated 100 were observed in a Burkes Raines, Susan Raines, Scott Jackson- Warbler - 16, American Redstart - Garden cornfield, Tazewell 19 Nov (SB, Ricketts, Russell County Bird Club, 14, Blackburnian Warbler- 14, and MAB). Mike Sanders, Nicholas Wimmer, Tom Palm Warbler - 11 (RM). A FOS Fox Wieboldt. Sparrow was discovered at a feeder Contributors: Dennis Austin, Mary in Independence, Grayson 13 Nov Ann Bentley, Stan Bentley, Rob Biller,

Page 16 Virginia Birds Volume 8 • Number 2 Editor—Wendy Ealding 1384 Palmore Road South Central Powhatan, VA 23139 [email protected] Patrick, Henry, Franklin, Pittsylvania, Halifax, Char- lotte, Appomattox, Buckingham, Cumberland, Amelia, Prince Edward, Nottoway, Dinwiddie, Lunenburg, Mecklenburg, Brunswick, and Greensville Counties, and the cities of Danville, Emporia, and Martinsville.

he story of the season was immature White Ibis from around were at this location 28 Aug (MS). Hurricane Irene, which the Region. Three juveniles were Present at Kerr 28 Aug were 3 brought a number of seen by observers canoeing at Bell Caspian Terns, 5 Black Terns, Tinteresting species to the Region. Branch Watershed, Buckingham one Common Tern, 3 Forster’s Thorough reporting by the observers (providing a third county record) Terns and 4 Royal Terns († AD, along with prompt action by 1 Aug (ES). There were numerous PG). Not hurricane associated were VARCOM has led to a number of reports from SVP 7 Aug through 10 19 Black Terns at SRSP 25 Aug new accepted records. Along with Sep (m. obs.), and a minimum of 44 (PG, BR) and 18 Forster’s Terns at the rest of the state, the Region saw were at SRSP 13 Aug (PG). One was Smith Mountain Lake, Franklin 18 a significant influx of juvenile White on private property in Pittsylvania Aug (GW). A first for Buckingham, Ibis in post-breeding dispersal. 9 Sep (MF). A Marbled Godwit a single adult Black Tern in non- Once again, the upper reaches of was reported from SRSP 12 Aug breeding plumage was at the the Staunton River attracted a large (FD) and was subsequently seen at impoundment on Hatcher Creek 4 variety of wading birds and migrant SVP through 28 Aug (JB, WE, PE, Sep (DS). shorebirds. PG, BR). Eight Pectoral Sandpipers were at SVP 7 Aug (PG) and two PASSERINES Abbreviations: SVP (Staunton View Stilt Sandpipers were there 28 A Black-billed Cuckoo at Wilck’s Park, Mecklenburg); SRSP (Staunton Aug († AD, PG). Buff-breasted Lake, Prince Edward 18 Sep (DS, River State Park, Halifax); Kerr (Kerr Sandpipers were reported from ES) may be only the second recorded Mecklenburg Reservoir, ); Dick Cross this location post-Hurricane Irene for the county. A late Black-billed (Dick Cross WMA, Mecklenburg); 28 Aug through 9 Sep (RK, AD, Cuckoo was at Dick Cross 22 Lawson’s Creek (Lawson’s Creek WMA, PG, † BR) with nine reported 5 Halifax); Sandy River (Sandy River Oct (AD, PG, BR). A Northern Reservoir, Prince Edward) Sep – furnishing a record high count Saw-whet Owl was heard 23 Nov for the Piedmont (PG, HG, ph. at White Oak Mountain WMA, QUAIL—TERNS RK, BR). Three very early juvenile Pittsylvania (MF). An ASH- Bonaparte’s Gull  A Northern Bobwhite, an were sighted at THROATED FLYCATCHER increasingly scarce species, was heard SVP 3 Sep (PG). Fairly rare in this was reported in Amelia 24 Nov († calling in Keysville, Charlotte 2 Aug part of the Piedmont, a first winter DB) – if confirmed this will provide Laughing Gull (PE), and two were reported from was at Kerr 20 the third Piedmont record. Two SVP 7 Aug (PG). An immature Nov (AD, MF, PG, BR). Any tern Winter Wrens were at Chase City, Little Blue Heron was at SVP 7 Aug is unusual in the South-Central Mecklenburg 23 Sep, somewhat early (PG) and one was at Sandy River Piedmont, and this fall produced for the season (GM). Late for the 27-28 Aug (MS); a juv. Tricolored reports of some interesting species. season, a juvenile Prothonotary Heron was at SVP 14 Aug († AD, There were several reports of coastal/ Warbler was still being fed by its FD, PG, BR). An immature Yellow- pelagic tern species displaced by parents at SVP 7 Aug (PG). Fall crowned Night-Heron was at Bear Hurricane Irene: an adult and an warblers of note included a second SOOTY TERN were Creek Lake SP, Cumberland 29 immature county sighting of Magnolia at Sandy River 27 Aug (MS, † ph. Aug (WE) and 31 Aug (PE, MW). Warbler 26 Sep (WE, PE), a first DS, ES) and two ROYAL TERNS There were numerous reports of winter female Blackburnian, and a

Virginia Birds Volume 8 • Number 2 Page 17 first winter female Chestnut-sided BLACK-THROATED GRAY Day, Adam D’Onofrio, Wendy at Amelia WMA, Amelia 11 Sep WARBLER was reported 8 Oct Ealding, Jim Elder, Patty Elton, (WE) – the latter being a likely first from Concord, Appomattox († RB, Mary Foster, Hannah Glass, county observation of the species. JE, PL). Uncommon in the county, Paul Glass, Ryan Kelly, Peggy Also likely county records were a juvenile White-crowned Sparrow Lyons, Grace McCrowell, Bruce Connecticut and Chestnut-sided was at Lawson’s Creek 30 Oct (MF, Richardson, David Spears, Evan Warbler found by the Margaret PB, BR) Spears, Mike Stinson, George Watson Bird Club field trip at High Wheaton, Mary Anna Wilcox Bridge Trail SP, Cumberland 18 Sep Contributors: Dan Bieker, Jeff (ES). A potential first Piedmont Blalock, Rexanne Bruno, Fenton

Editor—Adam D'Onofrio 25118 Smith Grove Road Southeast Petersburg, VA 23803 [email protected] Henrico, Charles City, Chesterfield, James City, New Kent, Prince George, Sussex, Surrey, Southampton, Isle of Wight, and York Counties, and the cities of Rich- mod, Hopewell, Colonial Heights, and Petersburg.

emperatures were above Franklin’s Gull and Clay-colored was at Hog 4 Aug (AD). A late Green normal during all four months Sparrow. Heron was noted at Greensprings 30 of the period averaging 2.6 Oct (BW). A Black-crowned Night- Tdegrees above the long term mean. Abbreviations: Crewes (Crewes Heron was reported from Henricus/ Precipitation was above average for Channel, Henrico); Dutch Gap (Dutch Dutch Gap 27 Nov (JS). Imm. White three out of the four months with only Gap Conservation Area, Chesterfield); Ibis were seen frequently in the September recording lower than average Greensprings (Greensprings Greenway Region in August with most sightings precipitation. Hurricane Irene made a Trail, James City); Henricus (Henricus coming from Crewes (m.obs.). The violent landfall in Virginia on August Park, Chesterfield), Hog (Hog Island highest count was a group of seven 27 bringing with it damaging winds W.M.A., Surry); J.R.P. (James River individuals 21 Aug (ABr). A sub-ad./ and heavy rain. Remarkably, no unusual Park System, Richmond); Ragged Island juv. SWAINSON’S HAWK was sightings attributed to this storm were (Ragged Island W.M.A., Isle of Wight); observed and photographed feeding recorded in the region. Roxbury (Roxbury, Charles City); in the corn fields and grassy fields at Fall migration was characterized by late Shirley (Shirley Plantation, Charles Malvern Hill National Battlefield Park, passerines. By late October when most City). Henrico 18 Sep (ABr). A Virginia migrants, especially warblers, should TEAL—TERNS Rail was found dead in Careytown, have already passed through, there were A late f. Blue-winged Teal was noted Richmond, probably the result of a numerous sightings of multiple species in the marsh at Henricus 28 Nov (AD). building collision 20 Oct (fide AB). sometimes in numbers normally seen in An early f. Northern Shoveler was at Three Soras, very much alive, were late summer and early fall. Shorebirds, Hog 5 Aug (AD). Two f. Northern reported from Charles City 9 Oct (AB). on the other hand, were scarce at Hog Shovelers were at Drummond’s Field, Another Sora was seen walking around Island in Surry County this season James City 25 Sep-18 Nov (BW). An the marsh at Ragged Island 26 Sep due to high water levels that persisted early Ring-necked Duck was seen at (NF). An American Coot, discovered throughout the period leaving little Boat Lake, Richmond 22 Sep (EO). at Hog 4 Aug, was either exceptionally to no mud flats or edges for foraging An ANHINGA was spotted flying early or a bird that over-summered (AD, shorebirds. low across I-95 in Prince George 29 SD, AB). Twelve American Golden- The bird of the season was most Oct (EE). An American Bittern was Plovers flew over Greensprings 2 Oct certainly the MacGillivray’s Warbler seen feeding on the bank across the (BW). Four American Avocets, rare discovered in Hopewell. Other rarities road from the Henricus marsh 31 Oct inland, were found at Crewes 18 Aug included Anhinga, Swainson’s Hawk, (B&BS). A juv. Tricolored Heron (ph. BH) and remained there until at

Page 18 Virginia Birds Volume 8 • Number 2 least 23 Aug (m.ob.). Another American An American Avocet was viewed at a private pond Coot, at Hog at an undisclosed location in either Island 4 August, Henrico or Charles City 21 Aug (ABr). was either an An Upland Sandpiper, a rare transient, was seen along the entrance road into exceptionally Shirley 3 Sep (MI). A Marbled Godwit, early migrant or rare inland, was photographed in had stayed the Charles City 15 Aug (AB). A Pectoral summer. Photo- Sandpiper was at Drummond’s Field, graph by Adam James City 16 Nov (BW). A Stilt D'Onofrio Sandpiper was at Crewes 19 Aug (AD). A first cycle FRANKLIN’S GULL was an excellent find among the thousands of gulls at the Hopewell City Marina 26 Nov (ph. ABr). A new state high count of 832 Caspian Terns was made at Hog 26 Sep-9 Oct (AB, ABr). Huge numbers (WE). A Prairie Warbler in Chester 9 Sep besting the previous high count of of Purple Martins once again used the 23 Oct was very late (JK). Blackpoll 811 from August 23, 2011 at this same Bradford Pear trees in Shockoe Bottom, Warblers were still numbering in the location (BT). Two Common Terns Richmond as a pre-migratory roost teens during both days of birding were observed from the Jamestown this season. The high count was 28,100 Hopewell and Henrico 22-23 Oct (ABr). Ferry 9 Sep (BT) and 6 ad. Black Terns birds on 13 Aug (JF). Red-breasted A late American Redstart was also seen were observed from the Ferry 14 Aug Nuthatches have been scarce this fall in these areas 23 Oct (ABr). An imm.  (AB). so a report of one from Greensprings f. MACGILLIVRAY’S WARBLER 20 Nov was noteworthy (DC). Ninety was found and photographed in thick four Veerys, a new local high count, vegetation along Station St. in Hopewell FLYCATCHERS—SPARROWS passed over Greensprings predawn 25 20 Nov (ph. ABr, AB). If accepted Yellow-bellied Flycatcher A , a rare Sep (BW). Twenty four Veerys were by VARCOM, this sighting would transient, was near Roxbury 20 Sep heard near Roxbury 4 Oct (BW). represent the second state record. A Least Flycatcher (BW). A calling was Twenty three Gray-cheeked Thrushes male Wilson’s Warbler was observed in studied closely at Chub Sandhill Natural were counted as predawn flyovers near Charles City 18 Sep (ABr) and a female Sussex Area Preserve, 13 Sep (NF). Roxbury 4 Oct (BW). A late Gray- was seen in the Wetlands section of Another Least Flycatcher on Jamestown cheeked Thrush was at Rockwood Park, J.R.P. 4 Oct (AB). A CLAY-COLORED James City Island, 16 Sep established Chesterfield 28 Oct (WE). A Bicknell’s SPARROW, rare away from the coast in only the third local record (BW). A Thrush, identified by nocturnal flight fall, was at Mainland Farm, James City Warbling Vireo was at City Point, call, passed over Greensprings 9 Oct 25 Sep furnishing a second local record Hopewell 9 Oct (AB). At least four (BW). Two more Bicknell’s Thrushes (BW). A latish Grasshopper Sparrow Philadelphia Vireos were reported from were heard near Roxbury 4 Oct (BW). was at the Wetlands section of J.R.P. Forty Swainson’s Thrusheswere 23 Oct (AB). Up to three Nelson’s predawn flyovers near Roxbury 4 Oct Sparrows were found at Ragged Island (BW). Eight late Swainson Thrushes 10-14 Oct (ph. by KK, NF, EE). Single were heard at Greensprings 23 Oct Saltmarsh Sparrows were noted at (BW). Five Tennessee Warblers were Ragged Island 26 Sep & 10 Oct (NF, counted in Hopewell and Henrico 22 EE). At least three Lincoln’s Sparrows Oct (ABr). Four Orange-crowned were found in the Region this season Warblers were observed in Hopewell (ph. ABr, AB). 24 Nov, a new high count for the area (AB, ABr). A late Nashville Warbler Contributors: Paul Bedell, Arun Bose, was reported from the Harrison Lake Allen Bryan (ABr), David Clark, Shirley National Fish Hatchery, Charles City 30 Devan, Adam D’Onofrio, Wendy Oct (PB). Several lingering Northern Ealding, Elisa Enders, Nick Flanders, A Marbled Godwit in Charles City Parulas were noted from Hopewell Janice Frye, Barbara Houston, Julie and Henrico 22-23 Oct (ABr). A late Kacmarcik, Karen Kearney, Ellison County was unusual so far inland. Black-throated Blue Warbler was at Orcutt, Ben & Betsy Saunders, James Photograph by Arun Bose Rockwood Park, Chesterfield 28 Oct Shelton, Brian Taber, Bill Williams.

Virginia Birds Volume 8 • Number 2 Page 19 Editor—Bill Williams, Center for Conservation Biology, College of William and Mary Coastal P.O. Box 8795 Williamsburg, VA 23197 [email protected] Accomack and Nothampton Counties; Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel; Pelagic area; and the cities of Chesa- peake, Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk, Poquoson, Portsmouth, Suffolk, and Virginia Beach.

he contextual subplots for this Virginia Wildlife Observatory Waterfowl—American Coot season’s bird-life narrative were supported project since 1996, TheBLACK-BELLIED WHISTLING as complex and varied as the operated for its 49th consecutive fall DUCK at Chinc.16-26 Jul (ph. Tavian taxa chronicled below. The four 15 August–22 November. By season’s EEd, JE, MR) remained thru at least month period was comparatively warm end 10,036 birds of 99 species were 3 Aug (MR). An assemblage of over and mild throughout, ending with banded in 15,992 net hours, a rate of 63 300 Wood Ducks was off Blackwater an annual rainfall surplus at Norfolk birds/100 net hours. Back Bay National Road, Virginia Beach 29 Sep (EE). A about six inches above normal. One can Wildlife Refuge/False Cape State Park male Eurasian Wigeon was at Cape readily tease out the Indian summer and Craney Island surveys continued Charles 4 Nov (NB); another was in bird distribution effects from the wide to contribute to the understandings of Snow Goose Pool, Chinc. 13 Nov (SB, range of late/extreme dates reported changing bird populations. LM et al.). An American Black Duck herein. Among five truly Atlantic coast List popping rarities were numerous, with a single downy chick was at South cyclonic events yet another storm of the with many all too ephemeral. Among Point Marsh, Accomack 2 Aug (DB “I”, this one Hurricane Irene, tracked the best of the best of these were Black- fide HA). The season’s highest reported across the North Carolina Outer Banks bellied Whistling Duck, Swainson’s Northern Shoveler count was 2738 at then just off the Virginia capes 27–28 Hawk, Yellow Rail, Long-billed Curlew, Craney 10 Nov (SD, BT, BW). A King August. It left its mark on Virginia’s Red Phalarope, Glaucous Gull, Sooty, Eider was off Bay Creek, Cape Charles ornithological record with potentially a Birdled, and Arctic terns, Western 25 Nov (NB). There were 180 Pied- new species. Wood-Pewee, Say’s Phoebe, Fork-tailed billed Grebes at Back Bay 26 Oct (BA, A 4 August lightning-ignited Dismal Flycatcher, Brown-chested Martin, Cave SDa). A Red-necked Grebe was in the Swamp fire charred more than 6000 Swallow, and Townsend’s Warbler. James River off Mariner’s Museum Park, acres and blanketed the Region often Newport News 30 Oct (DY); another with dense smoke into early September, Abbreviations: ABA (American was off Cape Charles 13 Nov (AD, before it was largely extinguished Birding Association); Back Bay (Back PG, TTr). An Eared Grebe was off by residual rains from Gulf Coast- Bay NWR, Virginia Beach); Cape Cape Charles 24 Oct (NB). Reports of originating Tropical Storm Lee 6–8 Charles (town of Cape Charles, American White Pelicans included one September. Certainly this influenced Northampton); CBC (Christmas Bird at Chinc. 6 Oct (EO), one to two off resident and migrant birds but to what Count); CBBT (Chesapeake Bay Bridge KSP 15 Oct (KW, BC) and singles there extent is conjectural. Sustained hot, Tunnel s. of Northampton); Chinc. 2 & 16 Nov (KW). An active two-egg dry conditions across the continent’s (Chincoteague NWR, Accomack); Brown Pelican nest was on South Point southwest and Great Plain likely Craney (Craney Island dredge spoil Marsh, Accomack 2 Aug as researchers determined the west to east vagrancy site, Portsmouth); Dismal (Dismal were banding 553 pelican young (DB, of several extra-limital flycatchers and Swamp NWR, Chesapeake/Suffolk); HA et al.); an adult captured that day at least one warbler species within the ESVNWR (Eastern Shore of Virginia on Shanks Island, Accomack had been Region. Predictions that the “excellent” NWR, Northampton); False Cape banded in North Carolina in 1987(JW and “extensive” cone crop “across much (False Cape SP, Virginia Beach); fide HA). A tardy Green Heron was at of the boreal forest and the Northeast” FINWR (Fisherman Island NWR, the ESVNWR Ramp Road 12 Nov (SB, would result in limited numbers of Northampton); KHW (Kiptopeke Hawk LM et al.). A Least Bittern reported irruptive finches proved to be correct. Watch at KSP); KSP (Kiptopeke SP, off Bluebill Ln., near Chesconessex, Always the hallmark of every season Northampton); Sunset Beach (Sunset Accomack 6 Oct (LG) was 16 days are the Region’s outstanding research Beach Resort, Northampton) beyond the species’ 20 Sep late date. A and monitoring efforts. The Kiptopeke new state peak count 674 White Ibis Songbird Banding Station, a Coastal passed through the ESVNWR during

Page 20 Virginia Birds Volume 8 • Number 2 a 45 min. period 9 Sep (CB). The from a nearby captive breeding site 4672 at Craney 11 Aug (RB et al). Of former record of 428 was set 23 Sep (fide MR). An aerial survey count four Buff-breasted Sandpiperreports 2009 at Bull’s Landing, Northampton of 11,619 American Coots at Back the most encountered was two near (ZP) then tied 22 Sep 2010 at the Bay 30 Nov (JG) recalled the species’ Townsend, Northampton 1 Oct (HA, ESVNWR (CB). An adult Mississippi former abundance there before the BAn, TT). Wilson’s Phalaropes were Kite was at the Red Wing Golf Course, avian cholera die-offs of the early to mid recorded weekly at Craney 4 Aug–8 Sep Virginia Beach 8 Aug (ph. K&TB, JM, 1970s. with a peak count of eight there 8 Sep AMc). The 35th consecutive fall KHW (RB, AM, BT, BW); one was at Chinc. documented 22,921 diurnal raptors in Shorebirds—Owls 7 Aug (WH) with two there 25 Aug 764.25 hours over 88 of 91 possible The season’s highest reported Black- (JB). Weekly Red-necked Phalarope count days 1 Sep-30 Nov. Species totals bellied Plover count was 1610 on south counts at Craney 4 Aug–22 Sep reached for the season were: 2016 Ospreys; end of Wreck Island, Northampton 7 a high mark of 21 on 8 Sep (RB, AM, 301 Bald Eagles; 534 Northern Oct (HA et al.). American Golden- BT, BW); one was in Taylor Pond Harriers; 9842 Sharp-shinned Hawks; Plovers were detected at several at KSP 5 Oct (LD). The male RED 2055 Cooper’s Hawks; 2 Northern locations 28 Aug–1 Oct. Notable PHALAROPE at Craney 28 Jul (BT Goshawks; 55 Red-shouldered counts were: six along Arlington Rd., et al.) remained through at least 4 Aug Hawks; 1340 Broad-winged Hawks; Northampton 29 Aug (NB); two at (RB et al.). Subsequently, four were 2 Swainson’s Hawks; 390 Red-tailed Chinc. 1 Sep (BH); 10 at Craney at Craney 6 Oct (BW et al., ph. BR) Hawks; 7 Golden Eagles; 4093 15 Sep (BW, RB, SD); and two and 170 were off the Norfolk Canyon American Kestrels; 1416 Merlins; 771 near Townsend, Northampton 1 Oct shelf about 80 miles east of southern Peregrine Falcons; 97 unidentified (HA, BAn, TT). A lone Wilson’s Northampton 8 Nov (CV). Also on (KW). The peak count day, 28 Sep, Plover frequented a plowed field near 8 Nov 12 Black-legged Kittiwakes totaled 1459 raptors including 110 Townsend, Northampton 24 Sep (PD). were near Norfolk Canyon about 50 Ospreys, 809 Sharp-shinned Hawks, The peak reported Black-necked Stilt miles east of FINWR (CV). Some 95 Cooper’s Hawks, 247 American count was 40 at Craney 11 Aug (RB et impressive Back Bay/False Cape Lesser Kestrels, 69 Merlins, and 72 Peregrine al.); one was there 22 Sep (RB et al.). Black-backed Gull counts were 420 Falcons (KW). Both of the season’s A season high 78 American Avocets (263/157) on 5 Aug (DH, SDa, KM, Northern Goshawks were recorded 5 were at Craney 8 Sep (RB, AM, BT, LT), 255 (131/124) on 15 Aug (DH, Nov (KW), one of which was likely BW); one was in Burton’s Bay, near GM), and 212 (145/67) on 14 Oct noted later that day at the ESVNWR Wachapreague, Accomack 9 Oct (RK); (DH, SDa). The second cycle Glaucous (NB). Two late-departing Broad-winged one was at the ESVNWR Ramp Road Gull found at Craney 12 May (RB et Hawks passed the watch site 27 Nov 16 Oct (SD, RB); six remained at al.) was last seen 25 Aug (RB et al.). An (KW). The count’s initial Swainson’s Craney thru 10 Nov (SD, BT, BW). enigmatic “white” gull at Craney 26 Hawk, a light morph recorded 19 Sep An Eastern Willet was among a flock May-20 Oct suggested Herring Gull (KW, ph. BT), was subsequently seen of 8 Western Willets at Sunset Beach x Iceland Gull parentage (RB et al., that day at Sunset Beach then at the 11 Oct (BW) and a Spotted Sandpiper m. obs.). A total of 6 Sooty Terns were ESVNWR (MB et al). The second was at Craney 10 Nov (BT, SD, BW). reported in the wake of Hurricane Irene; Swainson’s Hawk passed the watch A leg-tagged Ruddy Turnstone at a dead ad. was on the Captain’s Cove platform 1 Nov (KW). The amalgam Chinc. 3 Sep had been banded on Golf Course, Chincoteague, Accomack of Golden Eagle reports 27 Sep (BAn Cooks Beach, NJ 30 May 2009 (ph. 28 Aug (ph. JBf, CM); one was off fide KW) thru 25 Nov (KW), all from BH). An orange-flagged Red Knot Sunset Beach (NB) and four (two ads., lower Northampton, had a peak count of at Chinc. 1 Sep had been marked in two juvs.) were off the CBBT 28 Aug three at the ESVNWR 3 Nov (BP fide Argentina in late 1999/early 2000 (ph. (DS, BAn, NB). Irene also delivered one NB). Hardly a garden-variety species, BH fide FS); another had been color- juv. and one sub ad. Bridled Tern to  a Yellow Rail was being stalked by tagged on the west coast of Florida. Oyster , Northampton 27 Aug and one a cat in a Cape Charles flower bed 16 There were two Upland Sandpiper to Sunset Beach 28 Aug (NB). There Oct (NB).Hundreds of Clapper Rails reports; singles were at Craney 20 Aug were 874 Least Terns at Craney 11 Aug were encountered by hunters 28 Oct (RBr, AD) and near KSP 31 Aug (NB). (RB et al.) and a remarkable 457 Black as northeast winds caused significant For a 4th consecutive year (fide RK) a Terns there 8 Sep (RB, AM, BT, BW). inundation of lower Northampton LONG-BILLED CURLEW was Hurricane Irene’s approach brought seaside marshes (fide NB). Two Sandhill in Burton’s Bay near Wachapreague, an ad. Arctic Tern to Cape Charles 27  Cranes in Miflin’s Marsh off Deep Accomack 8 Oct (RK, ph. PM) with two Aug (NB). Two Pomarine Jaegers were Hole Rd., Chincoteague, Accomack there 9 Oct (RK). The highest reported off the CBBT 28 Aug (NB, BAn, DS) 22 Sep (MH) were suspected to be Semipalmated Sandpiper count was and one was off Cape Charles 17 Oct

Virginia Birds Volume 8 • Number 2 Page 21 A casualty of Hurricane Irene, this Sooty Tern was found in Accomack County on August 28, 2011 after the passage of the storm up the East Coast. Photographed by Joelle Buffa and Clyde Morris. (NB). A Parasitic Jaeger was off Cape An exceptionally early Yellow-bellied (NB), four there 16 Sep (NB), one Charles 26 Oct (NB). Three Eurasian Sapsucker was at KSP 1 Sep (KW) banded at KSP 16 Sep (CB), one at Collared-Doves were at Magotha Road, almost three weeks ahead of the Region’s Chinc. 17 Sep (BAk et al.), and one Northampton 3 Sep (RBr); one was at previous 20 Sep extreme date. The at the KHW 30 Sep (KW). A color- KSP 5 Oct (KW). A White-winged highest volume lower Northampton banded Loggerhead Shrike in the Dove was at the junc. of Sandpiper Northern Flicker flight occurred 5 Ashville, Virginia Beach development Rd. and Swordfish Rd., Sandbridge, Oct with 1386 at Sunset Beach (NB) 19–28 Nov (EE, JB, T&KB, PM, Virginia Beach 26 Oct (JMa). Single and 812 at KSP (HA). A WESTERN D&KS) was almost certainly the same Black-billed Cuckoos were at Sunset WOOD-PEWEE banded at KSP individual that was at this site 21 Nov Beach 29 Aug (NB) and at Chinc. 17 21 Oct (CB) provided the state’s 2010–21 Feb 2011 (DC, m. ob.). The Sep (fideMB). A male Barn Owl was second record; one was banded at Little color-band combination showed it at the junc. of Rte. 600 and Jones Cove Island City Park, Virginia Beach 12 had been banded as a second-year bird Rd., Northampton 14 Nov (CB, JR). A Oct 2003. An Olive-sided Flycatcher at a captive population field breeding Northern Saw-whet Owl was rescued was a post-Hurricane Irene flyby off site in Carden, Ontario, Canada 30 from an attack by 4 American Crows the CBBT 28 Aug (NB). The season’s May 2011(fide TI). This was the third on the Eastern Virginia Medical School first significant cold front brought an Ontario Loggerhead Shrike to have campus, Norfolk 26 Nov (TJ, BL fide Alder Flycatcher to Sunset Beach 16 been confirmed in the US. Potentially RH). Sep (NB). A Western Kingbird was off Virginia’s first, and the ABA area’s th7 , Rte. 600 at Bull’s Lane, Northampton BROWN-CHESTED MARTIN NIGHTHAWK—ICTERIDS 10 Sep (ph. AB). The Region’s all-time was at Wise Point, Northampton/ Common Nighthawks were reported Eastern Phoebe peak count for any FINWR 28 Aug (NB). A Northern 20 Aug–21 Oct, all from lower season was reset 5 Oct with 66 at the Rough-winged Swallow was at KSP Northampton, with a peak count of CBBT office complex, Northampton 16 Nov (KW). A Bank Swallow at eight at the KHW 22 Sep (KW). (NB). The former high count was 60 on Craney 20 Oct (BW) was well past the An estimated two dozen Chimney the 27 Dec 1998 Cape Charles CBC. species’ 25 Sep late date. Single CAVE  Swifts were at KSP 26–28 Oct (KW). A SAY’S PHOEBE at Maplewood SWALLOWS were at Magotha Road, A Newport News Ruby-throated Gardens, Northampton 7 Oct (ph. JBz Northampton 17 Nov (CB) and at KSP Hummingbird was feeding young in fide NB) was as ephemeral as a FORK- 19 Nov (KW). A Barn Swallow was at the nest 21 Aug (ph. V&GB, JF); one TAILED FLYCATCHER that was at KSP 30 Oct (KW). An estimated 500 visited the KHW feeder 21 Nov (KW). KSP 1 Oct (LD). A White-eyed Vireo Golden-crowned Kinglets were at KSP A Selasphorus rufus/sasin hummingbird was at Washington Ditch, Dismal 25 28 Oct (KW). Blue-gray Gnatcatchers was at the KHW feeder 26 Sep (NB). Nov (EE). Philadelphia Vireo reports were at KSP through at least 16 Oct included one at Sunset Beach 31 Aug

Page 22 Virginia Birds Volume 8 • Number 2 (KW). Six Bicknell’s Thrushes were was at the Noland Trail, Newport banded at KSP, two each day 4, 5, & 6 News 30 Aug (NF). Possibly the same Contributors: Bob Ake, Bill Akers Oct, respectively (CB). A predawn flight bird was at that location 16 Sep (DY) (BAk), Bob Anderson (BAn), Harry of about100 Swainson’s Thrushes and coincidental with one at Chinc. (MF). Armistead, Scott Barnes, John Bazuin 240 Hermit Thrushes passed over Cape Blackpoll Warblers were present in (JBz), Karen & Tom Beatty, Jane Charles 22 Oct (NB). A Swainson’s lower Northampton through at least 4 Beavers, Ruth Beck, Meredith Bell, Thrush window-killed in Norfolk 28 Nov (NB). A Lapland Longspur at Arun Bose, Virginia and George Boyles, Oct (BA) was six days past the species’ Back Bay 4 Oct (BA) was just inside Calvin Brennan, Dave Brinker, Ned previous 22 Oct extreme date. Also late the species’ 30 Sep extreme date. Two Brinkley, Rexanne Bruno (RBr), Joelle was a Wood Thrush banded at KSP Snow Buntings were at Back Bay 7 Nov Buffa (JBf), Bob Chapman, David 12 Nov (CB), six days beyond that (BA); one was at the KSP pier 14 Nov Clark, Tiffany Corsello, Lynn Davidson, species’ previous 6 Nov extreme date. A (SP) and one was at 12th St. and Atlantic Sarah Davis (SDa), Shirley Devan, high diversity passerine flight at Sunset Ave., Virginia Beach 19 Nov (ph. Peter Doherty, Adam D’Onofrio, Ed Beach 16 Sep was bolstered numerically K&TB). Among Clay-colored Sparrow Edner (EEd), Jennifer Elmer, Elisa by 535 Common Yellowthroats, 597 reports were an ad. on #1 CBBT 10 Sep Enders, Nick Flanders, Betsy Foster, American Redstarts, 175 Northern (ph. AB), one at Chinc. 18 Sep (ph. Mary Foster, Jane Frigo, John Gallegos, Parulas, and 304 Magnolia Warblers FM, TC) and singles at KSP 5 (LD) Lynn Gillingham, Paul Glass, Bill (NB). A “Lawrence’s” Warbler was & 7 Oct (fide NB) then 3 & 26 Nov Hohenstein, Mariannis Houff, Renn banded at KSP 23 Sep (CB). There were (KW). Two Lark Sparrows were near Hudgins, David Hughes, Tara Imlay, 10 Connecticut Warblers banded at the ESVNWR entrance 8 Sep (CB); Terry Jenkins, Rick Kellam, Josh KSP 30 Sep–20 Oct with a peak of four another was at Bay View Elementary Kreitzer, Bob Loomis, Linda Mack, on 3 Oct (CB); another was at Sunset School, Norfolk 2 Nov (JK). Single Jim Marcum (JMa), Ken Markley, Beach 5 Oct (NB). One Mourning Lincoln’s Sparrows were banded at KSP Frank Marenghi, Paul McCroskey, Warbler was banded at KSP 17 Aug 6, 10, & 16 Oct (CB). Other reports Ann McDowell (AMc), Alex Minarik, (CB) and one was at the KHW 10 Sep involved one at Chinc. 7 Oct (EM), Maryella Mitchell, Geralyn Mireles, (KW). A Northern Parula banded at one at Cape Charles 23 Oct (NB), one Pamela Monahan, Elton Morel, Clyde KSP 12 Nov (CB) was 12 days past the at the KHW 26 Oct (KW), and one at Morris, Jayne Munoz, Ellison Orcutt, species’ 31 Oct extreme date. An adult KSP 7 Nov (KW). An estimated 500 Bart Paxton, Susan Powell, Bruce male TOWNSEND’S WARBLER Dark-eyed Juncos passed the KHW in Richardson, Jim Roberts, Marv Rubin, sang at least four times during its 15 min. after fog lifted 16 Nov (KW). Debbie and Kurt Schroeder, David brief stop at KSP 22 Oct (NB, BAn, Dickcissel reports included one at Shoch, Fletcher Smith, Brian Taber, BF, ST). A Yellow-rumped Warbler Sunset Beach 29 Aug (NB), one at KSP Steve Thornhill, Thuy Tran, Lisa Trapp, banded at KSP 24 Aug (CB) eclipsed 3 Sep (BT), one at Sunset Beach 16 Sep Tina Trice (TTr), Chris Vogel, John the species’ 2 Sep Coastal Plain extreme (NB), and one in a Norfolk birdbath Weske, Bill Williams, Kyle Wright, date by nine days. A Yellow-throated 12 Nov (BA). An imm. male Yellow- Dave Youker Warbler visited a Chesapeake bird bath headed Blackbird was at KSP 11 Nov 27 Nov (MM). A Wilson’s Warbler (KW).

Virginia Birds Volume 8 • Number 2 Page 23 THE VIRGINIA SOCIETY OF ORNITHOLOGY PO Box 5994 Williamsburg, VA 23188

VSO Officers VSO Board of Directors President: Andrew Dolby, Fredricksburg Terms Expire 2013 Past President: Rexanne Bruno, Lynchburg Elisa Enders, Portsmith Vice President: Joe Coleman David Hannah, Charlottesville Secretary: Alyce Quinn, Roanoke Larry Meade, Vienna Treasurer: Sue Thrasher, Lynchburg Terms Expire 2014 Raven Editor, Wes Brown, Parksley Tiffany Corsello, King George County Newsletter Editors: Linda Fields & Alan Schreck, Mark Fink, Farmville Arlington Jerry Thornhill, Elk Garden Membership Secretary, Thelma Dalmas, Evington Terms Expire 2015 Joelle Buffa, Greenbackville Keith Carson, Blue Grass Russell Taylor, Vienna