December 24, 2009

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, December 24th, 2009:

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

A SCISSOR-TAILED FLYCATCHER (Tyrannus forficatus) was at the Schaezler's Warbler Woods property near Cibolo on December 23rd.

The Granger Lake area was productive on December 20th, with 2 ROSS'S GEESE (Chen rossii), a BURROWING OWL (Athene cunicularia) along CR 124, and a WHITE-BREASTED NUTHATCH (Sitta carolinensis) in the pecan grove along CR 366.

The Austin Christmas Bird Count held on December 19th produced some interesting finds: several NEOTROPIC CORMORANTS (Phalacrocorax brasilianus), a first-year TRICOLORED HERON (Egretta tricolor), a WHITE-FACED IBIS (Plegadis chihi), 2 Red-tailed HARLAN'S HAWKS, a VERMILION FLYCATCHER (Pyrocephalus rubinus), several COUCH'S KINGBIRDS (Tyrannus couchii) seen by multiple groups, a SCISSOR-TAILED FLYCATCHER (Tyrannus forficatus), BLACK-THROATED GREEN WARBLER (Dendroica virens), a WILSON'S WARBLER (Wilsonia pusilla), two CASSIN'S SPARROWS (Aimophila cassinii) and a LARK BUNTING (Calamospiza melanocorys).

A female SUMMER TANAGER (Piranga rubra) was photographed during its visits to a feeder at a nw. Austin residence (southwest of 360 & Spicewood Springs) on December 17th and 18th.

A YELLOW-THROATED WARBLER (Dendroica dominica) showed up at a private residence off of Lake LBJ on December 18th, marking the 4th consecutive winter it has appeared at this location.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A SURF SCOTER (Melanitta perspicillata) has been present (and photographed) on Pond 1East at Hornsby Bend since December 3rd, with the latest sightings as of December 16th. Multiple COMMON GOLDENEYE (Bucephala clangula) are also being seen on the ponds (as recently as December 19th).

Small numbers of COUCH'S KINGBIRDS (Tyrannus couchii) may be attempting to winter in the area. As many as 5 or 6 birds have been seen at Aquarena Springs in San Marcos (last reported December 18th). Four or more birds are along the Colorado River between Longhorn Dam and Hornsby Bend (last reported December 19th).

A lone RED CROSSBILL (Loxia curvirostra) was heard by an experienced birder on private property along Cottletown Road between Bastrop and Buescher State Parks on November 13th. It has been seen once and heard a couple other times since, most recently on December 4th. Folks should be on the look out for this species in and near the parks.

A SAY'S PHOEBE (Sayornis saya) was found north of Bertram on November 27th on FM 1174, two miles south of FM 963. It was seen again on December 13th.

RINGED KINGFISHERS (Megaceryle torquatus) have been present at a few spots around Austin. Individual birds have been present along the river at Hornsby Bend and also along the river at Commons Ford Park (in west Austin off Commons Ford Rd which runs off of Cuernavaca about 1/2 mile from its intersection with Bee Caves/2244) on-and-off for the past few weeks. Another one was seen along the river at Reimer's Ranch Park (off of Hamilton Pool road) and, more recently, closer to Hamilton Pool. There has also been one seen around (Big) Webberville Park. Further west, a male was seen and heard at Johnson Park in Marble Falls on December 13th.

As has been the trend in recent years, small number of LITTLE BLUE HERONS (Egretta caerulea) and SNOWY EGRETS (Egretta thula) are lingering into the winter. Both species have been reported at Hornsby Bend, the Montopolis Bridge area, and elsewhere along the Colorado River, as recently as December 19th, and at the Walnut Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant pond, as recently as December 12th.

Small numbers of CAVE SWALLOWS (Petrochelidon fulva) are also around this winter. They can be found regularly at Hornsby Bend and should be looked for at other area ponds and lakes.


--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A great find on the Balcones Canyonland Christmas Bird Count held on December 14th was a HUTTON'S VIREO (Vireo huttoni) found on the refuge north of the headquarters. Two SAGE THRASHERS (Oreoscoptes montanus) were also studied (and photographed) during the count on Peaceful Springs Nature Preserve.

A male BROAD-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD (Selasphorus platycercus) was seen at a private residence in the Great Hills area of northwest Austin on December 14th.

As many as 6 SCISSOR-TAILED FLYCATCHERS (Tyrannus forficatus) are lingering in Round Rock ner exit 254 off of I-35. The most recent report is from December 14th.

A PEREGRINE FALCON (Falco peregrinus) was seen at Reimer's Ranch in western Travis County on December 13th.

A LOUISIANA WATERTHRUSH (Seiurus motacilla) was studied on December 12th in Sequin along a stream at the Outdoor Learning Center.

A NEOTROPIC CORMORANT (Phalacrocorax brasilianus) was photographed on December 9th at Aquarena Springs in San Marcos.

Hornsby Bend continiues to host some unusual birds. A lone ROSS'S GOOSE (Chen rossii) has been present on both Pond 1East and Pond 1West since December 4th (still present as of December 8th) and a COUCH'S KINGBIRD (Tyrannus couchii) was on the wires between Pond 2 (the big pond) and the greenhouse on December 8th.

A GREEN HERON (Butorides virescens) was near Deep Eddy on Lady Bird Lake in Austin on December 6th.

A BURROWING OWL (Athene cunicularia) was in ne. Travis County on December 5th. It was seen near the culvert on Wells Lane, 0.4 miles northeast of its intersection with Wells School Road.

A ZONE-TAILED HAWK (Buteo albonotatus) was over Seguin on December 4th.

--
Eric Carpenter
Rare Bird Alert Compiler, Travis Audubon Society

December 10, 2009

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, December 10th, 2009:

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

Hornsby Bend continiues to host some unusual birds. A lone ROSS'S GOOSE (Chen rossii) has been present on both Pond 1East and Pond 1West since December 4th (still present as of December 8th) and a COUCH'S KINGBIRD (Tyrannus couchii) was on the wires between Pond 2 (the big pond) and the greenhouse on December 8th. Multiple COMMON GOLDENEYE (Bucephala clangula) are also being seen on the ponds (as recently as December 9th).

A GREEN HERON (Butorides virescens) was near Deep Eddy on Lady Bird Lake in Austin on December 6th.

A BURROWING OWL (Athene cunicularia) was in ne. Travis County on December 5th. It was seen near the culvert on Wells Lane, 0.4 miles northeast of its intersection with Wells School Road.

A ZONE-TAILED HAWK (Buteo albonotatus) was over Seguin on December 4th.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A SURF SCOTER (Melanitta perspicillata) has been present (and photographed) on Pond 1East at Hornsby Bend since December 3rd, with the latest sightings as of December 9th.

A lone RED CROSSBILL (Loxia curvirostra) was heard by an experienced birder on private property along Cottletown Road between Bastrop and Buescher State Parks on November 13th. It has been seen once and heard a couple other times since, most recently on December 4th. Folks should be on the look out for this species in and near the parks.

An immature male CALLIOPE HUMMINGBIRD (Stellula calliope) was photographed on private property near Dripping Springs on November 20th and was present there thru November 30th.

RINGED KINGFISHERS (Megaceryle torquatus) have been present at a few spots around Austin. Individual birds have been present along the river at Hornsby Bend and also along the river at Commons Ford Park (in west Austin off Commons Ford Rd which runs off of Cuernavaca about 1/2 mile from its intersection with Bee Caves/2244) on-and-off for the past few weeks. Another one was seen along the river at Reimer's Ranch Park (off of Hamilton Pool road) and, more recently, closer to Hamilton Pool. There has also been one seen around (Big) Webberville Park.

A COMMON MOORHEN (Gallinula chloropus) has been lingering at the pond in the Triangle delevopment area near the northwest corner of 45th and Guadalupe Streets in Austin. It has been seen at least through November 19th. As many as 7 individuals are lingering at a small pond near the intersection of McKinney Falls Parkway and Aspen Glenn (last report on November 14th), while 2 more are at a pond near the intersection of Hwy 183 and Metropolitan (last report on November 14th).

As has been the trend in recent years, small number of LITTLE BLUE HERONS (Egretta caerulea) and SNOWY EGRETS (Egretta thula) are lingering into the winter. Both species have been reported at Hornsby Bend, as recently as November 29th, and at the Walnut Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant pond, as recently as December 3rd. Eight Snowy Egrets were on Lake Buchanan on November 27th.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

Some interesting birds found at Hornsby Bend the past few weeks include: a WHOOPING CRANE (Grus americana) was a slow fly-over on November 27th, a CACKLING GOOSE (Branta hutchinsii) was photographed on Pond 2 on November 28th and has been present on-and-off around the ponds through December 2nd, and 2 NEOTROPIC CORMORANTS (Phalacrocorax brasilianus) were near Platt Pond on November 29th. As many as 3 or 4 GREATER SCAUP (Aythya marila) have been present on Pond 1East, last reported on December 3rd. Four WESTERN SANDPIPERS (Calidris mauri) have been present amongst the numerous Least Sandpipers either on Pond 1East or in the dryin basins (last reported on November 29th).

A WILSON'S WARBLER (Wilsonia pusilla) put in an appearance at a residence in southwest Austin (Travis Country subdivision) on November 29th.

A VIRGINIA RAIL (Rallus limicola) was photographed at Aquarena Springs in San Marcos on November 27th.

An ANHINGA (Anhinga anhinga) was seen flying upriver at Inks Lake Fish Hatchery on November 27th.

Seventeen WESTERN GREBES (Aechmophorus occidentalis) were seen on Lake Buchanan from Black Rock Park on November 27th.

A SAY'S PHOEBE (Sayornis saya) was along FM 1174 north of Bertram on November 27th.

On November 24th, a VERMILION FLYCATCHER (Pyrocephalus rubinus) was at (Big) Webberville Park while a COUCH'S KINGBIRD (Tyrannus couchii) was noted across the street from Little Webberville Park.

A ZONE-TAILED HAWK (Buteo albonotatus) was observed over FM 969 in western Bastop County on November 24th; it is perhaps the same bird observed near there on November 22nd.

Three WESTERN GREBES (Aechmophorus occidentalis) were well studied (and photographed) on Pond 2 at Hornsby Bend on November 21st. Two of the birds were relocated on nearby Walter E. Long Lake (Decker Lake) on November 22nd.

A GREATER SCAUP (Aythya marila) was at the sewage aeration ponds in Rogers (Bell County) on November 22nd.

Three HORNED GREBES (Podiceps auritus) was a good number on November 21st at Union Grove WMA on Stillhouse Hollow Reservoir.

A lone CACKLING GOOSE (Branta hutchinsii) was in with other waterfowl on November 15th (and again on November 22nd) on Lake Rogers south of the town of Rogers, on the edge of Bell County.

--
Eric Carpenter
Rare Bird Alert Compiler, Travis Audubon Society

TEXBIRDS help file and Texas birding links at: http://moonmountaingroup.com/texbirds

December 3, 2009

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00pm, December 3rd, 2009:

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

Hornsby Bend has attracted some good birds as of late: a SURF SCOTER (Melanitta perspicillata) present on Pond 1East on December 3rd, a WHOOPING CRANE (Grus americana) was a slow fly-over on November 27th, a CACKLING GOOSE (Branta hutchinsii) was photographed on Pond 2 on November 28th and has been present on-and-off around the ponds through December 2nd, and 2 NEOTROPIC CORMORANTS (Phalacrocorax brasilianus) were near Platt Pond on November 29th. As many as 3 or 4 GREATER SCAUP (Aythya marila) have been present on Pond 1East, last reported on December 3rd. Four WESTERN SANDPIPERS (Calidris mauri) have been present amongst the numerous Least Sandpipers either on Pond 1East or in the dryin basins (last reported on November 29th).

A WILSON'S WARBLER (Wilsonia pusilla) put in an appearance at a residence in southwest Austin (Travis Country subdivision) on November 29th.

A VIRGINIA RAIL (Rallus limicola) was photographed at Aquarena Springs in San Marcos on November 27th.

An ANHINGA (Anhinga anhinga) was seen flying upriver at Inks Lake Fish Hatchery on November 27th.

Seventeen WESTERN GREBES (Aechmophorus occidentalis) were seen on Lake Buchanan from Black Rock Park on November 27th.

A SAY'S PHOEBE (Sayornis saya) was along FM 1174 north of Bertram on November 27th.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

An immature male CALLIOPE HUMMINGBIRD (Stellula calliope) was photographed on private property near Dripping Springs on November 20th and was present there thru November 30th.

RINGED KINGFISHERS (Megaceryle torquatus) have been present at a few spots around Austin. Individual birds have been present along the river at Hornsby Bend and also along the river at Commons Ford Park (in west Austin off Commons Ford Rd which runs off of Cuernavaca about 1/2 mile from its intersection with Bee Caves/2244) on-and-off for the past few weeks. Another one was seen along the river at Reimer's Ranch Park (off of Hamilton Pool road) and, more recently, closer to Hamilton Pool. There has also been one seen around (Big) Webberville Park.

A COMMON MOORHEN (Gallinula chloropus) has been lingering at the pond in the Triangle delevopment area near the northwest corner of 45th and Guadalupe Streets in Austin. It has been seen at least through November 19th. As many as 7 individuals are lingering at a small pond near the intersection of McKinney Falls Parkway and Aspen Glenn (last report on November 14th), while 2 more are at a pond near the intersection of Hwy 183 and Metropolitan (last report on November 14th).

As has been the trend in recent years, small number of LITTLE BLUE HERONS (Egretta caerulea) and SNOWY EGRETS (Egretta thula) are lingering into the winter. Both species have been reported at Hornsby Bend, as recently as November 29th, and at the Walnut Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant pond, as recently as December 3rd. Eight Snowy Egrets were on Lake Buchanan on November 27th.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

On November 24th, a VERMILION FLYCATCHER (Pyrocephalus rubinus) was at (Big) Webberville Park while a COUCH'S KINGBIRD (Tyrannus couchii) was
noted across the street from Little Webberville Park.

A ZONE-TAILED HAWK (Buteo albonotatus) was observed over FM 969 in western Bastop County on November 24th; it is perhaps the same bird observed near there on November 22nd.

Three WESTERN GREBES (Aechmophorus occidentalis) were well studied (and photographed) on Pond 2 at Hornsby Bend on November 21st. Two of the birds were relocated on nearby Walter E. Long Lake (Decker Lake) on November 22nd.

A GREATER SCAUP (Aythya marila) was at the sewage aeration ponds in Rogers (Bell County) on November 22nd.

Three HORNED GREBES (Podiceps auritus) was a good number on November 21st at Union Grove WMA on Stillhouse Hollow Reservoir.

A trip to the Granger Lake area on November 15th yielded 2 SAY'S PHOEBES (Sayornis saya), with one along Aubrey Messer Road (Bell County) and another along CR 435 (Williamson County).

A lone CACKLING GOOSE (Branta hutchinsii) was in with other waterfowl on November 15th (and again on November 22nd) on Lake Rogers south of the town of Rogers, on the edge of Bell County.

A lingering BLACK-THROATED GREEN WARBLER (Dendroica virens) was at the Zilker Nature Preserve on November 15th.

A lone RED CROSSBILL (Loxia curvirostra) was heard by an experienced birder along Cottletown Road between Bastrop and Buescher State Parks
on November 13th.

--
Eric Carpenter
Rare Bird Alert Compiler, Travis Audubon Society

November 19, 2009

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, November 19th, 2009:

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

A trip to the Granger Lake area on November 15th yielded 2 SAY'S PHOEBES (Sayornis saya), with one along Aubrey Messer Road (Bell County) and another along CR 435 (Williamson County).

A lingering BLACK-THROATED GREEN WARBLER (Dendroica virens) was at the Zilker Nature Preserve on November 15th.

A lone RED CROSSBILL (Loxia curvirostra) was heard by an experienced birder along Cottletown Road between Bastrop and Buescher State Parks on November 13th.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

RINGED KINGFISHERS (Megaceryle torquatus) have been present at a few spots around Austin. Individual birds have been present along the river at Hornsby Bend and also along the river at Commons Ford Park (in west Austin off Commons Ford Rd which runs off of Cuernavaca about 1/2 mile from its intersection with Bee Caves/2244) on-and-off for the past few weeks. Another one was seen along the river at Reimer's Ranch Park (off of Hamilton Pool road) and, more recently, closer to Hamilton Pool. There has also been one seen around (Big) Webberville Park.

A male CALLIOPE HUMMINGBIRD (Stellula calliope) was discovered (and photographed) on September 16th on the northwest side of the Garden Center building at Zilker Botanical Gardens in Austin (see http://www.zilkergarden.org/about/index.html) and has been seen sporadically there since then (last report on October 31st). It can be looked for attending to the lone hummingbird feeder and also perched up high in the nearby oaks.

A COMMON MOORHEN (Gallinula chloropus) has been lingering at the pond in the Triangle delevopment area near the northwest corner of 45th and Guadalupe Streets in Austin. It has been seen at least through November 14th. As many as 7 individuals are lingering at a small pond near the intersection of McKinney Falls Parkway and Aspen Glenn (last report on November 14th), while 2 more are at a pond near the intersection of Hwy 183 and Metropolitan (last report on November 14th).

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

An AMERICAN WOODCOCK (Scolopax minor) was flushed on private property near Utley on November 11th.

A LARK BUNTING (Calamospiza melanocorys) was along Lindemann Road southwest of Holland on November 8th.

An OVENBIRD (Seiurus aurocapilla) was present on private property near Utley on November 7th and 8th.

A BROAD-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD (Selasphorus platycercus) was at a private residence near Spring Branch (Blano County near the Comal County line) on November 1st.

A lingering ASH-THROATED FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus cinerascens) was at the Canyon of the Eagles park on Lake Buchanan on October 31st.

--
Eric Carpenter
Rare Bird Alert Compiler, Travis Audubon Society

November 12, 2009

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, November 12th, 2009:

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

An AMERICAN WOODCOCK (Scolopax minor) was flushed on private property near Utley on November 11th.

A LARK BUNTING (Calamospiza melanocorys) was along Lindemann Road southwest of Holland on November 8th.

An OVENBIRD (Seiurus aurocapilla) was present on private property near Utley on November 7th and 8th.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

RINGED KINGFISHERS (Megaceryle torquatus) have been present at a few spots around Austin. Individual birds have been present along the river at Hornsby Bend and also along the river at Commons Ford Park (in west Austin off Commons Ford Rd which runs off of Cuernavaca about 1/2 mile from its intersection with Bee Caves/2244) on-and-off for the past few weeks. Another one was seen along the river at Reimer's Ranch Park (off of Hamilton Pool road). There has also been one seen around (Big) Webberville Park.

A male CALLIOPE HUMMINGBIRD (Stellula calliope) was discovered (and photographed) on September 16th on the northwest side of the Garden Center building at Zilker Botanical Gardens in Austin (see http://www.zilkergarden.org/about/index.html) and has been seen sporadically there since then (last report on October 31st). It can be looked for attending to the lone hummingbird feeder and also perched up high in the nearby oaks.

A COMMON MOORHEN (Gallinula chloropus) has been lingering at the pond in the Triangle delevopment area near the northwest corner of 45th and Guadalupe Streets in Austin. It has been seen at least through October 31st.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A BROAD-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD (Selasphorus platycercus) was at a private residence near Spring Branch (Blano County near the Comal County line) on November 1st.

A lingering ASH-THROATED FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus cinerascens) was at the Canyon of the Eagles park on Lake Buchanan on October 31st.

An AMERICAN REDSTART (Setophaga ruticilla) was a nice find on October 27th along the West Bouldin Creek greenbelt in south Austin. It was still in the area as of November 2nd.

A SAGE THRASHER (Oreoscoptes montanus) was studied on October 23rd along the rocks on the Dam at Stillhouse Hollow Reservoir (Bell County), roughly 100 yards north of the spillway.

--
Eric Carpenter
Rare Bird Alert Compiler, Travis Audubon Society

October 30, 2009

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, October 30th, 2009:

--- Exceptional Sightings---

A juvenile RED PHALAROPE (Phalaropus fulicarius) was discovered on Pond 2 at Hornsby Bend on October 17th. This great find has been photographed and viewed by many through at October 22nd. There are precious few area records and this is the first for Travis County since 1980.

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

An AMERICAN REDSTART (Setophaga ruticilla) was a nice find on October 27th along the West Bouldin Creek greenbelt in south Austin.

A SAGE THRASHER (Oreoscoptes montanus) was studied on October 23rd along the rocks on the Dam at Stillhouse Hollow Reservoir (Bell County), roughly 100 yards north of the spillway.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

RINGED KINGFISHERS (Megaceryle torquatus) have been present at a few spots around Austin. Individual birds have been present along the river at Hornsby Bend and also along the river at Commons Ford Park (in west Austin off Commons Ford Rd which runs off of Cuernavaca about 1/2 mile from its intersection with Bee Caves/2244) on-and-off for the past few weeks. Another one was seen along the river at Reimer's Ranch Park (off of Hamilton Pool road).

A male CALLIOPE HUMMINGBIRD (Stellula calliope) was discovered (and photographed) on September 16th on the northwest side of the Garden Center building at Zilker Botanical Gardens in Austin (see http://www.zilkergarden.org/about/index.html) and has been seen sporadically there since then (last report on October 14th). It can be looked for attending to the lone hummingbird feeder and also perched up high in the nearby oaks.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A COMMON MOORHEN (Gallinula chloropus) has been lingering at the pond in the Triangle delevopment area near the northwest corner of 45th and Guadalupe Streets in Austin. It has been seen at least through October 19th.

A WHITE-BREASTED NUTHATCH (Sitta carolinensis) was at the Little River crossing along Sunshine Road, between Holland and Rogers in Bell County on October 18th. As many as three birds had been seen in the same general area on October 3rd.

An immature BROWN PELICAN (Pelecanus occidentalis) was seen again on October 17th on the northern portions of Lake Buchanan.

A PRAIRIE FALCON (Falco mexicanus) was seen migrating over Sequin on October 16th.

A migrating FERRUGINOUS HAWK (Buteo regalis) was studied on October 16th as it flew over Nolanville (Bell County).

--
Eric Carpenter
Rare Bird Alert Compiler, Travis Audubon Society

October 8, 2009

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, October 8th, 2009:

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

(Big) Webberville Park in far eastern Travis County was productive on October 7th with a YELLOW-THROATED VIREO (Vireo flavifrons), a BROWN CREEPER (Certhia americana) and a YELLOW-THROATED WARBLER (Dendroica dominica).

An immature BROWN PELICAN (Pelecanus occidentalis) was photographed on October 3rd on Lake Buchanan from CR 225/Shaw Island Road.

Three WHITE-BREASTED NUTHATCHES (Sitta carolinensis) were studied on October 3rd along Sunshine Road, between Holland and Rogers in Bell County. Two of the birds were at the Little River crossing and one more was about a mile west of that location.

A RINGED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle torquatus) was spotted at Commons Ford Park on October 3rd. The park is in far west Austin off of Cuernavaca about a half-mile from its intersection with Bee Caves/2222.

Another RINGED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle torquatus) was seen along the river at Hornsby Bend on October 3rd.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A male CALLIOPE HUMMINGBIRD (Stellula calliope) was discovered (and photographed) on September 16th on the northwest side of the Garden Center building at Zilker Botanical Gardens in Austin (see http://www.zilkergarden.org/about/index.html) and has been seen sporadically there since then (last report on October 6th). It can be looked for attending to the lone hummingbird feeder and also perched up high in the nearby oaks.

LONG-BILLED THRASHERS (Toxostoma longirostre) are being seen regularly at the Schaezler's Warbler Woods property near Cibolo. The most recent report is from September 26th.

Two MOTTLED DUCKS (Anas fulvigula) have been present on-and-off on the ponds at Hornsby Bend since the spring. The most recent sighting was from October 4th.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A ZONE-TAILED HAWK (Buteo albonotatus) was along Cypress Creek just off Hamilton Pool Road near the Blanco/Travis county line on September 30th.

A RINGED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle torquatus) was spotted at Commons Ford Park on September 20th. The park is in far west Austin off of Cuernavaca about a half-mile from its intersection with Bee Caves/2222.

Another RINGED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle torquatus) was seen along the river at Hornsby Bend on September 19th.

A ZONE-TAILED HAWK (Buteo albonotatus) was over Lake Austin between Emma Long and Commons Ford Parks on September 19th and 20th.

A trip to Lake Buchanan on September 19th was productive with a MARBLED GODWIT (Limosa fedoa) seen from Paradise Point plus an early WESTERN GREBE (Aechmophorus occidentalis) and a ZONE-TAILED HAWK (Buteo albonotatus) seen from County Road 225/Shaw Island Road.

A SWAINSON'S THRUSH (Catharus ustulatus) was seen on September 19th in far northwest Austin (near 620 & 183).

--
Eric Carpenter
Rare Bird Alert Compiler, Travis Audubon Society

October 1, 2009

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, October 1st, 2009:

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

A ZONE-TAILED HAWK (Buteo albonotatus) was along Cypress Creek just off Hamilton Pool Road near the Blanco/Travis county line on September 30th.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A male CALLIOPE HUMMINGBIRD (Stellula calliope) was discovered (and photographed) on September 16th on the northwest side of the Garden Center building at Zilker Botanical Gardens in Austin (see
http://www.zilkergarden.org/about/index.html) and has been seen sporadically there since then (last report on September 27th). It can be looked for attending to the lone hummingbird feeder and also perched up high in the nearby oaks.

LONG-BILLED THRASHERS (Toxostoma longirostre) are being seen regularly at the Schaezler's Warbler Woods property near Cibolo. The most recent report is from September 26th.

Two MOTTLED DUCKS (Anas fulvigula) have been present on-and-off on the ponds at Hornsby Bend since the spring. The most recent sighting was from September 26th.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A RINGED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle torquatus) was spotted at Commons Ford Park on September 20th. The park is in far west Austin off of Cuernavaca about a half-mile from its intersection with Bee Caves/2222.

Another RINGED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle torquatus) was seen along the river at Hornsby Bend on September 19th.

A ZONE-TAILED HAWK (Buteo albonotatus) was over Lake Austin between Emma Long and Commons Ford Parks on September 19th and 20th.

A trip to Lake Buchanan on September 19th was productive with a MARBLED GODWIT (Limosa fedoa) seen from Paradise Point plus an early WESTERN GREBE (Aechmophorus occidentalis) and a ZONE-TAILED HAWK (Buteo albonotatus) seen from County Road 225/Shaw Island Road.

A SWAINSON'S THRUSH (Catharus ustulatus) was seen on September 19th in far northwest Austin (near 620 & 183).

Two juvenile RED-NECKED PHALAROPES (Phalaropus lobatus) were found (and photographed) on September 12th on Pond 2 (the biggest pond) at Hornsby Bend. One of these birds continued at the ponds thru at least September 17th, alternating between Pond 2 and Pond 1East (the first pond as you enter).

A male BROAD-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD (Selasphorus platycercus) has been frequenting feeders at private residence near Lake Austin, upstream from Commons Ford Park since September 13th (last reported September 16th).

A WHITE-TAILED KITE (Elanus leucurus) was seen September 15th along Post Oak Road in far eastern Travis County. This area is off of FM 969 just before you reach (Big) Webberville Park.

An early MOUNTAIN PLOVER (Charadrius montanus) was found on September 12th at the County Road 352 "megafield" north of Granger Lake.

A CASPIAN TERN (Hydroprogne caspia) and an early LARK BUNTING (Calamospiza melanocorys) were seen on September 12th at Union Grove WMA on Stillhouse Hollow Lake (Bell County).

A juvenile REDDISH EGRET (Egretta rufescens) was discovered on September 12th a couple miles south of San Marcos, near the Hays/Guadalupe County line. It was seen at a pond on the east side of Old Bastrop Highway after it crosses CR 266 and before you reach Hwy 123. It was reported there again on September 13th.

--
Eric Carpenter
Rare Bird Alert Compiler, Travis Audubon Society

September 17, 2009

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, September 17th, 2009:

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

A male CALLIOPE HUMMINGBIRD (Stellula calliope) was discovered (and photographed) on September 16th on the northwest side of the Garden Center building at Zilker Botanical Gardens in Austin (see http://www.zilkergarden.org/about/index.html). It can be looked for attending to the lone hummingbird feeder and also perched up high in the nearby oaks.

Two juvenile RED-NECKED PHALAROPES (Phalaropus lobatus) were found (and photographed) on September 12th on Pond 2 (the biggest pond) at Hornsby Bend. One of these birds continues at the ponds thru at least September 16th, alternating between Pond 2 and Pond 1East (the first pond as you enter).

A male BROAD-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD (Selasphorus platycercus) has been frequenting feeders at private residence near Lake Austin, upstream from Commons Ford Park since September 13th (last reported September 16th).

A WHITE-TAILED KITE (Elanus leucurus) was seen September 15th along Post Oak Road in far western Travis County. This area is off of FM 969 just before you reach (Big) Webberville Park.

An early MOUNTAIN PLOVER (Charadrius montanus) was found on September 12th at the County Road 352 "megafield" north of Granger Lake.

A CASPIAN TERN (Hydroprogne caspia) and an early LARK BUNTING (Calamospiza melanocorys) were seen on September 12th at Union Grove WMA on Stillhouse Hollow Lake (Bell County).

A juvenile REDDISH EGRET (Egretta rufescens) was discovered on September 12th a couple miles south of San Marcos, near the Hays/Guadalupe County line. It was seen at a pond on the east side of Old Bastrop Highway after it crosses CR 266 and before you reach Hwy 123. It was reported there again on September 13th.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

LONG-BILLED THRASHERS (Toxostoma longirostre) are being seen regularly at the Schaezler's Warbler Woods property near Cibolo. The most recent report is from August 30th.

Two MOTTLED DUCKS (Anas fulvigula) have been present on-and-off on the ponds at Hornsby Bend since the spring. The most recent sighting was from September 16th.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A BUFF-BELLIED HUMMINGBIRD (Amazilia yucatanensis) put in an appearance on September 7th at a private residence near Commons Ford Park in far west Austin.

A MARBLED GODWIT (Limosa fedoa) was studied on September 7th along the upper reaches of Lake Buchanan, from both Canyon of the Eagles and also from the Cedar Park Recreational area near Tow.

The REDDISH EGRET (Egretta rufescens) found a couple weeks ago at Granger Lake was seen again on September 5th and September 10th. It has been seen out on a spit that can be seen with a scope from either Friendship Park or the dam.

A LAUGHING GULL (Leucophaeus atricilla) was present on Granger Lake September 5th and was still there on September 7th.

Another REDDISH EGRET (Egretta rufescens) was near the causeway at Canyon Lake on September 5th.

A NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH (Seiurus noveboracensis) was near the Riata Pond area in far northwest Austin on September 1st.

A MARBLED GODWIT (Limosa fedoa) (Willis Creek Park), a LEAST TERN (Sternula antillarum) (near Friendship Park), and a BROWN-CRESTED FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus tyrannulus) (San Gabriel WMA) were reported from the Granger Lake area on August 29th.

A SWALLOW-TAILED KITE (Elanoides forficatus) was reported near Brodie Lane and William Cannon Drive in south Austin on August 29th.

--------------

Reports for the Austin area RBA cover a 60-mile radius centered in downtown Austin. This circle extends north to Belton Lake (Bell County), south to Leesville (Gonzales County), east to Somerville WMA (Lee/Burleson County), and west to Blumenthal (Gillespie County).

Bird sightings mentioned here have been filtered & scrutinized by the compiler and are believed to be genuine. When documentation or photographs were provided, that is mentioned along with the other information about the bird(s) being seen.

The most recent update can always be found at:

http://www.travisaudubon.org/rba.html

Visit Travis Audubon online at:

http://www.travisaudubon.org

--------------
For questions or updates about birds mentioned here or to report rare or unusual bird sightings in the Austin area, please send an e-mail to
ecarpe@gmail.com.

--
Eric Carpenter
Rare Bird Alert Compiler, Travis Audubon Society

TEXBIRDS help file and Texas birding links at: http://moonmountaingroup.com/texbirds

September 11, 2009

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, September 11th, 2009:

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

A BUFF-BELLIED HUMMINGBIRD (Amazilia yucatanensis) put in an appearance on September 7th at a private residence near Commons Ford Park in far west Austin.

A MARBLED GODWIT (Limosa fedoa) was studied on September 7th along the upper reaches of Lake Buchanan, from both Canyon of the Eagles and also from the Cedar Park Recreational area near Tow.

The REDDISH EGRET (Egretta rufescens) found a couple weeks ago at Granger Lake was seen again on September 5th and September 10th. It has been seen out on a spit that can be seen with a scope from either Friendship Park or the dam.

A LAUGHING GULL (Leucophaeus atricilla) was present on Granger Lake September 5th and was still there on September 7th.

Another REDDISH EGRET (Egretta rufescens) was near the causeway at Canyon Lake on September 5th.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

LONG-BILLED THRASHERS (Toxostoma longirostre) are being seen regularly at the Schaezler's Warbler Woods property near Cibolo. The most recent report is from August 30th.

A YELLOW-THROATED VIREO (Vireo flavifrons) was at Commons Ford Park in far west Austin on August 15th while two were present there on August 23rd.

Two MOTTLED DUCKS (Anas fulvigula) have been present on-and-off on the ponds at Hornsby Bend since the spring. The most recent sighting was from September 7th.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH (Seiurus noveboracensis) was near the Riata Pond area in far northwest Austin on September 1st.

A MARBLED GODWIT (Limosa fedoa) (Willis Creek Park), a LEAST TERN (Sternula antillarum) (near Friendship Park), and a BROWN-CRESTED FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus tyrannulus) (San Gabriel WMA) were reported from the Granger Lake area on August 29th.

A SWALLOW-TAILED KITE (Elanoides forficatus) was reported near Brodie Lane and William Cannon Drive in south Austin on August 29th.

An AMERICAN REDSTART (Setophaga ruticilla) was at the Schaezler's Warbler Woods property near Cibolo on August 27th.

Lake Buchanan continues to be a hotspot this fall. The lake is likely at record-low water levels and there are some large areas of exposed mudflats, particularly around Cedar Point Recreation Area (off RR 3014 just east of RR 2241 intersection south of Tow), also accessible from the Burnet County side at Canyon of the Eagles park ($4 per person). Good finds this past week on the lake include a juvenile BROWN PELICAN (Pelecanus occidentalis) on August 21st, and early PEREGRINE FALCON (Falco peregrinus) on August 23rd, and 3 LAUGHING GULLS (Leucophaeus atricilla) on August 23rd.

A WHITE-TAILED KITE (Elanus leucurus) has been present in far western Bastrop County along FM 969 about a mile or so east of the Travis County line. The bird was last reported on August 26th.

A juvenile PIPING PLOVER (Charadrius melodus) was studied at Union Grove WMA on Stillhouse Hollow Reservoir on August 25th.

A NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH (Seiurus noveboracensis) put in an appearance on August 25th at Nicholas Dawson Park in south Austin (Gibson Street at South 1st Street).

Early NORTHERN PINTAILS (Anas acuta) include 2 at Hornsby Bend on August 22nd, 2 at Granger Lake on August 22nd, and 6 on Lake Buchanan (near Canyon of the Eagles) on August 23rd.

Granger Lake held a juv. REDDISH EGRET (Egretta rufescens) and 3 RING-BILLED GULLS (Larus delawarensis) on August 22nd.

Six RING-BILLED GULLS (Larus delawarensis) and 2 LEAST TERNS (Sternula antillarum) were at Union Grove WMA on Stillhouse Hollow Lake on August 22nd.

A female CERULEAN WARBLER (Dendroica cerulea), quite rare for the Austin area in the fall, was studied at (Big) Webberville Park on August 21st. A female AMERICAN REDSTART (Setophaga ruticilla) was also present.

An early CINAMMON TEAL (Anas cyanoptera) was photographed on August 19th on the ponds at Hornsby Bend and seen again on August 21st.

--------------

Reports for the Austin area RBA cover a 60-mile radius centered in downtown Austin. This circle extends north to Belton Lake (Bell County), south to Leesville (Gonzales County), east to Somerville WMA (Lee/Burleson County), and west to Blumenthal (Gillespie County).

Bird sightings mentioned here have been filtered & scrutinized by the compiler and are believed to be genuine. When documentation or photographs were provided, that is mentioned along with the other information about the bird(s) being seen.

The most recent update can always be found at:

http://www.travisaudubon.org/rba.html

Visit Travis Audubon online at:

http://www.travisaudubon.org

--------------
For questions or updates about birds mentioned here or to report rare or unusual bird sightings in the Austin area, please send an e-mail to
ecarpe@gmail.com.

--
Eric Carpenter
Rare Bird Alert Compiler, Travis Audubon Society

TEXBIRDS help file and Texas birding links at: http://moonmountaingroup.com/texbirds

September 4, 2009

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, September 4th, 2009:

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

A NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH (Seiurus noveboracensis) was near the Riata Pond area in far northwest Austin on September 1st.

A MARBLED GODWIT (Limosa fedoa) (Willis Creek Park), a LEAST TERN (Sternula antillarum) (near Friendship Park), and a BROWN-CRESTED FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus tyrannulus) (San Gabriel WMA) were reported from the Granger Lake area on August 29th.

A SWALLOW-TAILED KITE (Elanoides forficatus) was reported near Brodie Lane and William Cannon Drive in south Austin on August 29th.

An AMERICAN REDSTART (Setophaga ruticilla) was at the Schaezler's Warbler Woods property near Cibolo on August 27th.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

LONG-BILLED THRASHERS (Toxostoma longirostre) are being seen regularly at the Schaezler's Warbler Woods property near Cibolo. The most recent report is from August 30th.

A YELLOW-THROATED VIREO (Vireo flavifrons) was at Commons Ford Park in far west Austin on August 15th while two were present there on August 23rd.

Two MOTTLED DUCKS (Anas fulvigula) have been present on-and-off on the ponds at Hornsby Bend since the spring. The most recent sighting was from September 2nd.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

Lake Buchanan continues to be a hotspot this fall. The lake is likely at record-low water levels and there are some large areas of exposed mudflats, particularly around Cedar Point Recreation Area (off RR 3014 just east of RR 2241 intersection south of Tow), also accessible from the Burnet County side at Canyon of the Eagles park ($4 per person). Good finds this past week on the lake include a juvenile BROWN PELICAN (Pelecanus occidentalis) on August 21st, and early PEREGRINE FALCON (Falco peregrinus) on August 23rd, and 3 LAUGHING GULLS (Leucophaeus atricilla) on August 23rd.

A WHITE-TAILED KITE (Elanus leucurus) has been present in far western Bastrop County along FM 969 about a mile or so east of the Travis County line. The bird was last reported on August 26th.

A juvenile PIPING PLOVER (Charadrius melodus) was studied at Union Grove WMA on Stillhouse Hollow Reservoir on August 25th.

A NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH (Seiurus noveboracensis) put in an appearance on August 25th at Nicholas Dawson Park in south Austin (Gibson Street at South 1st Street).

Early NORTHERN PINTAILS (Anas acuta) include 2 at Hornsby Bend on August 22nd, 2 at Granger Lake on August 22nd, and 6 on Lake Buchanan (near Canyon of the Eagles) on August 23rd.

Granger Lake held a juv. REDDISH EGRET (Egretta rufescens) and 3 RING-BILLED GULLS (Larus delawarensis) on August 22nd.

Six RING-BILLED GULLS (Larus delawarensis) and 2 LEAST TERNS (Sternula antillarum) were at Union Grove WMA on Stillhouse Hollow Lake on August 22nd.

A female CERULEAN WARBLER (Dendroica cerulea), quite rare for the Austin area in the fall, was studied at (Big) Webberville Park on August 21st. A female AMERICAN REDSTART (Setophaga ruticilla) was also present.

Lake Buchanan is likely at record-low water levels and there are some large areas of exposed mudflats, particularly around Cedar Point Recreation Area (off RR 3014 just east of RR 2241 intersection south of Tow). Good finds on the lake include a juvenile BROWN PELICAN (Pelecanus occidentalis) on August 18th, a MARBLED GODWIT (Limosa haemastica) on August 16th, and a first-year LAUGHING GULL (Leucophaeus atricilla) on August 16th.

Seven MARBLED GODWITS (Limosa haemastica) were heard and seen flying over the Utley area (western Bastrop County) on August 19th.

An early CINAMMON TEAL (Anas cyanoptera) was photographed on August 19th on the ponds at Hornsby Bend and seen again on August 21st.

A juvenile PIPING PLOVER (Charadrius melodus) was photographed on August 14th at Granger Lake, at San Gabriel WMA where the river runs into the lake.

--------------

Reports for the Austin area RBA cover a 60-mile radius centered in downtown Austin. This circle extends north to Belton Lake (Bell County), south to Leesville (Gonzales County), east to Somerville WMA (Lee/Burleson County), and west to Blumenthal (Gillespie County).

Bird sightings mentioned here have been filtered & scrutinized by the compiler and are believed to be genuine. When documentation or photographs were provided, that is mentioned along with the other information about the bird(s) being seen.

The most recent update can always be found at:

http://www.travisaudubon.org/rba.html

Visit Travis Audubon online at:

http://www.travisaudubon.org

--------------
For questions or updates about birds mentioned here or to report rare or unusual bird sightings in the Austin area, please send an e-mail to
ecarpe@gmail.com.

--
Eric Carpenter
Rare Bird Alert Compiler, Travis Audubon Society

TEXBIRDS help file and Texas birding links at: http://moonmountaingroup.com/texbirds

August 27, 2009

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, August 27th, 2009:

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

Lake Buchanan continues to be a hotspot this fall. The lake is likely at record-low water levels and there are some large areas of exposed mudflats, particularly around Cedar Point Recreation Area (off RR 3014 just east of RR 2241 intersection south of Tow), also accessible from the Burnet County side at Canyon of the Eagles park ($4 per person). Good finds this past week on the lake include a juvenile BROWN PELICAN (Pelecanus occidentalis) on August 21st, and early PEREGRINE FALCON (Falco peregrinus) on August 23rd, and 3 LAUGHING GULLS (Leucophaeus atricilla) on August 23rd.

A WHITE-TAILED KITE (Elanus leucurus) has been present in far western Bastrop County along FM 969 about a mile or so east of the Travis County line. The bird was last reported on August 26th.

A juvenile PIPING PLOVER (Charadrius melodus) was studied at Union Grove WMA on Stillhouse Hollow Reservoir on August 25th.

A NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH (Seiurus noveboracensis) put in an appearance on August 25th at Nicholas Dawson Park in south Austin (Gibson Street at South 1st Street).

Early NORTHERN PINTAILS (Anas acuta) include 2 at Hornsby Bend on August 22nd, 2 at Granger Lake on August 22nd, and 6 on Lake Buchanan (near Canyon of the Eagles) on August 23rd.

Granger Lake held a juv. REDDISH EGRET (Egretta rufescens) and 3 RING-BILLED GULLS (Larus delawarensis) on August 22nd.

Six RING-BILLED GULLS (Larus delawarensis) and 2 LEAST TERNS (Sternula antillarum) were at Union Grove WMA on Stillhouse Hollow Lake on August 22nd.

A female CERULEAN WARBLER (Dendroica cerulea), quite rare for the Austin area in the fall, was studied at (Big) Webberville Park on August 21st. A female AMERICAN REDSTART (Setophaga ruticilla) was also present.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A YELLOW-THROATED VIREO (Vireo flavifrons) was at Commons Ford Park in far west Austin on August 15th while two were present there on August 23rd.

Two MOTTLED DUCKS (Anas fulvigula) have been present on-and-off on the ponds at Hornsby Bend since the spring. The most recent sighting was from August 22nd.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

Lake Buchanan is likely at record-low water levels and there are some large areas of exposed mudflats, particularly around Cedar Point Recreation Area (off RR 3014 just east of RR 2241 intersection south of Tow). Good finds on the lake include a juvenile BROWN PELICAN (Pelecanus occidentalis) on August 18th, a MARBLED GODWIT (Limosa haemastica) on August 16th, and a first-year LAUGHING GULL (Leucophaeus atricilla) on August 16th.

Seven MARBLED GODWITS (Limosa haemastica) were heard and seen flying over the Utley area (western Bastrop County) on August 19th.

An early CINAMMON TEAL (Anas cyanoptera) was photographed on August 19th on the ponds at Hornsby Bend and seen again on August 21st.

A juvenile PIPING PLOVER (Charadrius melodus) was photographed on August 14th at Granger Lake, at San Gabriel WMA where the river runs into the lake.

Early SANDERLINGS (Calidris alba) include 1 off of Cedar Point Recreation Area (off RR 3014 just east of RR 2241 intersection south of Tow) at Lake Buchanan on August 12th and 2 more on private property near Utley in western Bastrop County on August 13th.

Three SWALLOW-TAILED KITES (Elanoides forficatus) were found on August 12th off private property near Utley in western Bastrop County. One
bird was still present in the area on August 13th.

A rather early MERLIN (Falco columbarius) was studied near Slough Pond off Shallow Ford Road in Temple on August 12th.

A bit early was an AMERICAN REDSTART (Setophaga ruticilla) at (Big) Webberville Park in far eastern Travis County on August 9th.

--------------

Reports for the Austin area RBA cover a 60-mile radius centered in downtown Austin. This circle extends north to Belton Lake (Bell County), south to Leesville (Gonzales County), east to Somerville WMA (Lee/Burleson County), and west to Blumenthal (Gillespie County).

Bird sightings mentioned here have been filtered & scrutinized by the compiler and are believed to be genuine. When documentation or photographs were provided, that is mentioned along with the other information about the bird(s) being seen.

The most recent update can always be found at:

http://www.travisaudubon.org/rba.html

Visit Travis Audubon online at:

http://www.travisaudubon.org

--------------
For questions or updates about birds mentioned here or to report rare or unusual bird sightings in the Austin area, please send an e-mail to
ecarpe@gmail.com.

--
Eric Carpenter
Rare Bird Alert Compiler, Travis Audubon Society

TEXBIRDS help file and Texas birding links at: http://moonmountaingroup.com/texbirds

August 21, 2009

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, August 21st, 2009:

--- EXCEPTIONAL SIGHTINGS---

An immature GREEN-BREASTED MANGO (Anthracothorax prevostii) was photographed at a private residence roughly 5 miles northeast of Camp Ben McCollough during its short stay there on August 1st and 2nd. This is the first Austin-area record of this species.

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

Lake Buchanan continues to be a hotspot this fall. The lake is likely at record-low water levels and there are some large areas of exposed mudflats, particularly around Cedar Point Recreation Area (off RR 3014 just east of RR 2241 intersection south of Tow). Good finds this past week on the lake include a juvenile BROWN PELICAN (Pelecanus occidentalis) on August 18th, a MARBLED GODWIT (Limosa haemastica) on August 16th, and a first-year LAUGHING GULL (Leucophaeus atricilla) on August 16th.

Seven MARBLED GODWITS (Limosa haemastica) were heard and seen flying over the Utley area (western Bastrop County) on August 19th.

An early CINAMMON TEAL (Anas cyanoptera) was photographed on August 19th on the ponds at Hornsby Bend.

A YELLOW-THROATED VIREO (Vireo flavifrons) was at Commons Ford Park in far west Austin on August 15th.

A juvenile PIPING PLOVER (Charadrius melodus) was photographed on August 14th at Granger Lake, at San Gabriel WMA where the river runs into the lake.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

Two MOTTLED DUCKS (Anas fulvigula) have been present on-and-off on the ponds at Hornsby Bend since the spring. The most recent sighting was from August 19th.

A pair of SCOTT'S ORIOLES (Icterus parisorum) have been present at a private residence near Volente on Lake Travis since early July, last reported on August 3rd.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

Early SANDERLINGS (Calidris alba) include 1 off of Cedar Point Recreation Area (off RR 3014 just east of RR 2241 intersection south of Tow) at Lake Buchanan on August 12th and 2 more on private property near Utley in western Bastrop County on August 13th.

Three SWALLOW-TAILED KITES (Elanoides forficatus) were found on August 12th off private property near Utley in western Bastrop County. One bird was still present in the area on August 13th.

A rather early MERLIN (Falco columbarius) was studied near Slough Pond off Shallow Ford Road in Temple on August 12th.

A bit early was an AMERICAN REDSTART (Setophaga ruticilla) at (Big) Webberville Park in far eastern Travis County on August 9th.

A female BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAK (Pheucticus melanocephalus) was photographed on August 3rd at a private residence in Kingsland.

A VIOLET-GREEN SWALLOW (Tachycineta thalassina) was studied briefly at the Hornsby Bend ponds on August 2nd.

--------------

Reports for the Austin area RBA cover a 60-mile radius centered in downtown Austin. This circle extends north to Belton Lake (Bell County), south to Leesville (Gonzales County), east to Somerville WMA (Lee/Burleson County), and west to Blumenthal (Gillespie County).

Bird sightings mentioned here have been filtered & scrutinized by the compiler and are believed to be genuine. When documentation or photographs were provided, that is mentioned along with the other information about the bird(s) being seen.

The most recent update can always be found at:

http://www.travisaudubon.org/rba.html

Visit Travis Audubon online at:

http://www.travisaudubon.org

--------------
For questions or updates about birds mentioned here or to report rare or unusual bird sightings in the Austin area, please send an e-mail to
ecarpe@gmail.com.

--
Eric Carpenter
Rare Bird Alert Compiler, Travis Audubon Society

TEXBIRDS help file and Texas birding links at: http://moonmountaingroup.com/texbirds

August 14, 2009

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, August 14th, 2009:

--- EXCEPTIONAL SIGHTINGS---

An immature GREEN-BREASTED MANGO (Anthracothorax prevostii) was photographed at a private residence roughly 5 miles northeast of Camp Ben McCollough during its short stay there on August 1st and 2nd. This is the first Austin-area record of this species.

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

Early SANDERLINGS (Calidris alba) include 1 off of Cedar Point Recreation Area (off RR 3014 just east of RR 2241 intersection south of Tow) at Lake Buchanan on August 12th and 2 more on private property near Utley in western Bastrop County on August 13th.

Three SWALLOW-TAILED KITES (Elanoides forficatus) were found on August 12th off private property near Utley in western Bastrop County. One bird was still present in the area on August 13th.

A rather early MERLIN (Falco columbarius) was studied near Slough Pond off Shallow Ford Road in Temple on August 12th.

A bit early was an AMERICAN REDSTART (Setophaga ruticilla) at (Big) Webberville Park in far eastern Travis County on August 9th.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

Two MOTTLED DUCKS (Anas fulvigula) have been present on-and-off on the ponds at Hornsby Bend since the spring. The most recent sighting was from August 11th.

A pair of SCOTT'S ORIOLES (Icterus parisorum) have been present at a private residence near Volente on Lake Travis since early July, last reported on August 3rd.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A female BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAK (Pheucticus melanocephalus) was photographed on August 3rd at a private residence in Kingsland.

A VIOLET-GREEN SWALLOW (Tachycineta thalassina) was studied briefly at the Hornsby Bend ponds on August 2nd.

An immature REDDISH EGRET (Egretta rufescens) was present on July 25th on the water along the east side of the causeway at Canyon Lake.

A RINGED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle torquatus) was seen on July 25th at Commons Ford Park in west Austin.

--------------

Reports for the Austin area RBA cover a 60-mile radius centered in downtown Austin. This circle extends north to Belton Lake (Bell County), south to Leesville (Gonzales County), east to Somerville WMA (Lee/Burleson County), and west to Blumenthal (Gillespie County).

Bird sightings mentioned here have been filtered & scrutinized by the compiler and are believed to be genuine. When documentation or photographs were provided, that is mentioned along with the other information about the bird(s) being seen.

The most recent update can always be found at:

http://www.travisaudubon.org/rba.html

Visit Travis Audubon online at:

http://www.travisaudubon.org

--------------
For questions or updates about birds mentioned here or to report rare or unusual bird sightings in the Austin area, please send an e-mail to
ecarpe@gmail.com.

--
Eric Carpenter
Rare Bird Alert Compiler, Travis Audubon Society

TEXBIRDS help file and Texas birding links at: http://moonmountaingroup.com/texbirds

August 9, 2009

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, August 9th, 2009:

--- EXCEPTIONAL SIGHTINGS---

An immature GREEN-BREASTED MANGO (Anthracothorax prevostii) was photographed at a private residence roughly 5 miles northeast of Camp Ben McColloutgh during its short stay there on August 1st and 2nd. This is the first Austin-area record of this species.

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

A bit early was an AMERICAN REDSTART (Setophaga ruticilla) at (Big) Webberville Park on August 9th.

A female BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAK (Pheucticus melanocephalus) was photographed on August 3rd at a private residence in Kingsland.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

Two MOTTLED DUCKS (Anas fulvigula) have been present on-and-off on the ponds at Hornsby Bend since the spring. The most recent sighting was from August 8th.

A pair of SCOTT'S ORIOLES (Icterus parisorum) have been present at a private residence near Volente on Lake Travis since early July, last reported on August 3rd.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A VIOLET-GREEN SWALLOW (Tachycineta thalassina) was studied briefly at the Hornsby Bend ponds on August 2nd.

An immature REDDISH EGRET (Egretta rufescens) was present on July 25th on the water along the east side of the causeway at Canyon Lake.

A RINGED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle torquatus) was seen on July 25th at Commons Ford Park in west Austin.

--------------

Reports for the Austin area RBA cover a 60-mile radius centered in downtown Austin. This circle extends north to Belton Lake (Bell County), south to Leesville (Gonzales County), east to Somerville WMA (Lee/Burleson County), and west to Blumenthal (Gillespie County).

Bird sightings mentioned here have been filtered & scrutinized by the compiler and are believed to be genuine. When documentation or photographs were provided, that is mentioned along with the other information about the bird(s) being seen.

The most recent update can always be found at:

http://www.travisaudubon.org/rba.html

Visit Travis Audubon online at:

http://www.travisaudubon.org

--------------
For questions or updates about birds mentioned here or to report rare or unusual bird sightings in the Austin area, please send an e-mail to
ecarpe@gmail.com.

--
Eric Carpenter
Rare Bird Alert Compiler, Travis Audubon Society

TEXBIRDS help file and Texas birding links at: http://moonmountaingroup.com/texbirds

June 25, 2009

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, June 25th, 2009:

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

A visit to the Gonzales area on June 23rd was very productive with the following highlights: 1 ANHINGA (Anhinga anhinga), 2 early WOOD STORKS (Mycteria americana), 1 BUFF-BELLIED HUMMINGBIRD (Amazilia yucatanensis), 4 COUCH'S KINGBIRDS (Tyrannus couchii), 3 BROWN-CRESTED FLYCATCHERS (Myiarchus tyrannulus), 1 heard-only LONG-BILLED THRASHER (Toxostoma longirostre) and a YELLOW-THROATED WARBLER (Dendroica dominica).

A small number of BULLOCK'S ORIOLES (Icterus bullockii) appear to be summering around the community of Turnersville between Buda and Creedmore. At least 2 adult males and 1 first-year male have been seen in the area as recently as June 21st, with the first-year male having constructed a nest. The birds should be looked for along N. Turnersville Road (Hays County) and nearby areas.

Also near the Turnersville community, 2 early immature ROSEATE SPOONBILLS (Platalea ajaja) were present on June 20th and June 21st in the pond along FM 2001 just northwest of where that road intersects Williamson Road.

An ANHINGA (Anhinga anhinga) has been seen sporadically at Hornsby Bend, with the most recent sightings on June 20th and June 22nd.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A PURPLE GALLINULE (Porphyrio martinica) has been present May 18th thru at least June 8th at the pond in the Triangle devleopment area near the northwest corner of 45th and Guadalupe Streets in Austin.

A BUFF-BELLIED HUMMINGBIRD (Amazilia yucatanensis) has been present near Rosanky for several months, most recently seen as of June 18th.

An immature WHITE IBIS (Eudocimus albus) was seen at Hornsby Bend on May 27th and was still present as of June 13th.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A COMMON PAURAQUE (Nyctidromus albicollis) was heard calling on June 13th at the Schaezler's Warbler Woods property near Cibolo.

A BROWN-CRESTED FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus tyrannulus) was photographed on June 13th near Utley in western Bastrop County. A CASSIN'S SPARROW (Aimophila cassinii) was also found in the western Bastrop/eastern Travis county area that day.

A male YELLOW WARBLER (Dendroica petechia) has been present and singing in a sw. Copperas Cove neighborhood as late as June 12th.

A rather vocal AMERICAN KESTREL (Falco sparverius) was heard and seen near the power plant off of Holly Street in east Austin on June 11th.

Two FULVOUS WHISTLING-DUCKS (Dendrocygna bicolor) were present in the middle of Pond 1West at Hornsby Bend on June 10th.

An ANHINGA (Anhinga anhinga) was seen over the ponds at Hornsby Bend on June 9th.

A late GRAY CATBIRD (Dumetella carolinensis) visited a west Austin yard near Commons Ford Park on June 6th.

Late migrants seen at Hornsby Bend include 3 BLACK TERNS (Chlidonias niger) on June 5th and 4 FRANKLIN'S GULLS (Leucophaeus pipixcan) there on June 6th.

--------------

Reports for the Austin area RBA cover a 60-mile radius centered in downtown Austin. This circle extends north to Belton Lake (Bell County), south to Leesville (Gonzales County), east to Somerville WMA (Lee/Burleson County), and west to Blumenthal (Gillespie County).

Bird sightings mentioned here have been filtered & scrutinized by the compiler and are believed to be genuine. When documentation or photographs were provided, that is mentioned along with the other information about the bird(s) being seen.

The most recent update can always be found at:

http://www.travisaudubon.org/rba.html

Visit Travis Audubon online at:

http://www.travisaudubon.org

--------------
For questions or updates about birds mentioned here or to report rare or unusual bird sightings in the Austin area, please send an e-mail to
ecarpe@gmail.com.

--
Eric Carpenter
Rare Bird Alert Compiler, Travis Audubon Society

TEXBIRDS help file and Texas birding links at: http://moonmountaingroup.com/texbirds

June 19, 2009

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, June 19th, 2009:

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

A COMMON PAURAQUE (Nyctidromus albicollis) was heard calling on June 13th at the Schaezler's Warbler Woods property near Cibolo.

A BROWN-CRESTED FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus tyrannulus) was photographed on June 13th near Utley in western Bastrop County. A CASSIN'S SPARROW (Aimophila cassinii) was also found in the western Bastrop/eastern Travis county area that day.

A male YELLOW WARBLER (Dendroica petechia) has been present and singing in a sw. Copperas Cove neighborhood as late as June 12th.

A rather vocal AMERICAN KESTREL (Falco sparverius) was heard and seen near the power plant off of Holly Street in east Austin on June 11th.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A PURPLE GALLINULE (Porphyrio martinica) has been present May 18th thru at least June 8th at the pond in the Triangle devleopment area near the northwest corner of 45th and Guadalupe Streets in Austin.

Another PURPLE GALLINULE (Porphyrio martinica) has been hanging out at the water retention pond off Ernest Robles Way (near Brodie Lane) in
Sunset Valley (south Austin). It was first reported on May 22nd and continues thru at least May 29th.

A BUFF-BELLIED HUMMINGBIRD (Amazilia yucatanensis) has been present near Rosanky for several months, most recently seen as of June 18th.

Two MOTTLED DUCKS (Anas fulvigula) were photographed on the ponds at Hornsby Bend on April 30th and were still present there as of June 3rd.

An immature WHITE IBIS (Eudocimus albus) was seen at Hornsby Bend on May 27th and was still present as of June 13th.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

Two FULVOUS WHISTLING-DUCKS (Dendrocygna bicolor) were present in the middle of Pond 1West at Hornsby Bend on June 10th.

AnANHINGA (Anhinga anhinga) was seen over the ponds at Hornsby Bend on June 9th.

A late GRAY CATBIRD (Dumetella carolinensis) visited a west Austin yard near Commons Ford Park on June 6th.

Late migrants seen at Hornsby Bend include 3 BLACK TERNS (Chlidonias niger) on June 5th and 4 FRANKLIN'S GULLS (Leucophaeus pipixcan) there
on June 6th.

Several species of shorebirds remain at the ponds at Hornsby bend thru the first week of June. Unexpected was a single LEAST SANDPIPER (Calidris minutilla) on June 3rd and up to 3 BAIRD'S SANDPIPERS (Calidris bairdii) on June 2nd and June 3rd.

A BUFF-BELLIED HUMMINGBIRD (Amazilia yucatanensis) was at a private residence in Seguin on May 30th and May 31st.

An ANHINGA (Anhinga anhinga) was soaring over the river at Big Webberville Park in far eastern Travis County on May 31st.

CASSIN'S SPARROWS (Aimophila cassinii) were reported on May 31st at the Schaezler's Warbler Woods property near Cibolo.

A SOLITARY SANDPIPER (Tringa solitaria) at Hornsby Bend on May 29th was getting late.

A BUFF-BELLIED HUMMINGBIRD (Amazilia yucatanensis) was present at a private residence near Utley on May 28th.

--------------

Reports for the Austin area RBA cover a 60-mile radius centered in downtown Austin. This circle extends north to Belton Lake (Bell County), south to Leesville (Gonzales County), east to Somerville WMA (Lee/Burleson County), and west to Blumenthal (Gillespie County).

Bird sightings mentioned here have been filtered & scrutinized by the compiler and are believed to be genuine. When documentation or photographs were provided, that is mentioned along with the other information about the bird(s) being seen.

The most recent update can always be found at:

http://www.travisaudubon.org/rba.html

Visit Travis Audubon online at:

http://www.travisaudubon.org

--------------
For questions or updates about birds mentioned here or to report rare or unusual bird sightings in the Austin area, please send an e-mail to
ecarpe@gmail.com.

--
Eric Carpenter
Rare Bird Alert Compiler, Travis Audubon Society

TEXBIRDS help file and Texas birding links at: http://moonmountaingroup.com/texbirds

June 11, 2009

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, June 11th, 2009:

--- Exceptional Sightings---

A vocalizing WESTERN WOOD-PEWEE (Contopus sordidulus) was studied near the birding shelter at Hornsby Bend on May 29th though attempts to record the bird were unsuccessful. Solid records of this species in the Austin area are few.

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

Two FULVOUS WHISTLING-DUCKS (Dendrocygna bicolor) were present in the middle of Pond 1West at Hornsby Bend on June 10th.

An ANHINGA (Anhinga anhinga) was seen over the ponds at Hornsby Bend on June 9th.

A late GRAY CATBIRD (Dumetella carolinensis) visited a west Austin yard near Commons Ford Park on June 6th.

Late migrants seen at Hornsby Bend include 3 BLACK TERNS (Chlidonias niger) on June 5th and 4 FRANKLIN'S GULLS (Leucophaeus pipixcan) there
on June 6th.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A PURPLE GALLINULE (Porphyrio martinica) has been present May 18th thru at least May 23rd at the pond in the Triangle devleopment area near the northwest corner of 45th and Guadalupe Streets in Austin.

Another PURPLE GALLINULE (Porphyrio martinica) has been hanging out at the water retention pond off Ernest Robles Way (near Brodie Lane) in Sunset Valley (south Austin). It was first reported on May 22nd and continues thru at least May 29th.

A BUFF-BELLIED HUMMINGBIRD (Amazilia yucatanensis) has been present (and photographed) at a private residence in Bastrop. The bird has been present since early May and continues thru at least May 27th.

Two MOTTLED DUCKS (Anas fulvigula) were photographed on the ponds at Hornsby Bend on April 30th and were still present there as of June 3rd.

An immature WHITE IBIS (Eudocimus albus) was seen at Hornsby Bend on May 27th and was still present as of June 3rd.

Up to 6 CASSIN'S SPARROWS (Aimophila cassinii) have been seen/heard in the Mueller Development area (Austin), north and northwest of the old air traffic control tower as recently as May 23rd.

LONG-BILLED THRASHERS (Toxostoma longirostre) are seen often at the Schaezler's Warbler Woods property near Cibolo. The most recent report of one there is from May 20th.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

Several species of shorebirds remain at the ponds at Hornsby bend thru the first week of June. Unexpected was a single LEAST SANDPIPER (Calidris minutilla) on June 3rd and up to 3 BAIRD'S SANDPIPERS (Calidris bairdii) on June 2nd and June 3rd.

A BUFF-BELLIED HUMMINGBIRD (Amazilia yucatanensis) was at a private residence in Seguin on May 30th and May 31st.

An ANHINGA (Anhinga anhinga) was soaring over the river at Big Webberville Park in far eastern Travis County on May 31st.

CASSIN'S SPARROWS (Aimophila cassinii) were reported on May 31st at the Schaezler's Warbler Woods property near Cibolo.

A SOLITARY SANDPIPER (Tringa solitaria) at Hornsby Bend on May 29th was getting late.

A BUFF-BELLIED HUMMINGBIRD (Amazilia yucatanensis) was present at a private residence near Utley on May 28th.

CASSIN'S SPARROWS (Aimophila cassinii) continue to make a strong showing in our area this spring/summer. A number of birds were heard/seen on May 23rd in areas of Bell County including along FM 1123 between Holland and Belton, and off of Dillard Road near I-35 just east of Stillhouse Hollow Reservoir. Eleven individuals were tallied on May 25th as part of a breeding bird survey run near the community of Walburg (Williamson County). Two additional singing birds were heard/seen on May 25th along Post Oak Road just west of (Big) Webberville Park.

Two GOLDEN-WINGED WARBLERS (Vermivora chrysoptera) were photographed at Southeast Metro Park (off Hwy 71 east of Bergstrom Airport) on May 23rd.

A MACGILLIVRAY'S WARBLER (Oporornis tolmiei) was studied along Shoal Creek just north of 34th Street in Austin on May 23rd.

A PURPLE GALLINULE (Porphyrio martinica)) was sighted on May 22nd around the gazebo at Landa Park in New Braunfels.

--------------
For questions or updates about birds mentioned here or to report rare
or unusual bird sightings in the Austin area, please send an e-mail to
ecarpe@gmail.com.

--
Eric Carpenter
Rare Bird Alert Compiler, Travis Audubon Society

June 5, 2009

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, June 5th, 2009:

--- Exceptional Sightings---

A vocalizing WESTERN WOOD-PEWEE (Contopus sordidulus) was studied near the birding shelter at Hornsby Bend on May 29th though attempts to record the bird were unsuccessful. Solid records of this species in the Austin area are few.

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

Several species of shorebirds remain at the ponds at Hornsby bend thru the first week of June. Unexpected was a single LEAST SANDPIPER (Calidris minutilla) on June 3rd and up to 3 BAIRD'S SANDPIPERS (Calidris bairdii) on June 2nd and June 3rd.

A BUFF-BELLIED HUMMINGBIRD (Amazilia yucatanensis) was at a private residence in Seguin on May 30th and May 31st.

An ANHINGA (Anhinga anhinga) was soaring over the river at Big Webberville Park in far eastern Travis County on May 31st.

CASSIN'S SPARROWS (Aimophila cassinii) were reported on May 31st at the Schaezler's Warbler Woods property near Cibolo.

A SOLITARY SANDPIPER (Tringa solitaria) at Hornsby Bend on May 29th was getting late.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A PURPLE GALLINULE (Porphyrio martinica) has been present May 18th thru at least May 23rd at the pond in the Triangle devleopment area near the northwest corner of 45th and Guadalupe Streets in Austin.

Another PURPLE GALLINULE (Porphyrio martinica) has been hanging out at the water retention pond off Ernest Robles Way (near Brodie Lane) in Sunset Valley (south Austin). It was first reported on May 22nd and continues thru at least May 29th.

A BUFF-BELLIED HUMMINGBIRD (Amazilia yucatanensis) has been present (and photographed) at a private residence in Bastrop. The bird has been present since early May and continues thru at least May 27th.

Two MOTTLED DUCKS (Anas fulvigula) were photographed on the ponds at Hornsby Bend on April 30th and were still present there as of June 3rd.

An immature WHITE IBIS (Eudocimus albus) was seen at Hornsby Bend on May 27th and was still present as of June 3rd.

Up to 6 CASSIN'S SPARROWS (Aimophila cassinii) have been seen/heard in the Mueller Development area (Austin), north and northwest of the old air traffic control tower as recently as May 23rd.

LONG-BILLED THRASHERS (Toxostoma longirostre) are seen often at the Schaezler's Warbler Woods property near Cibolo. The most recent report of one there is from May 20th.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A BUFF-BELLIED HUMMINGBIRD (Amazilia yucatanensis) was present at a private residence near Utley on May 28th.

CASSIN'S SPARROWS (Aimophila cassinii) continue to make a strong showing in our area this spring/summer. A number of birds were heard/seen on May 23rd in areas of Bell County including along FM 1123 between Holland and Belton, and off of Dillard Road near I-35 just east of Stillhouse Hollow Reservoir. Eleven individuals were tallied on May 25th as part of a breeding bird survey run near the community of Walburg (Williamson County). Two additional singing birds were heard/seen on May 25th along Post Oak Road just west of (Big) Webberville Park.

Two GOLDEN-WINGED WARBLERS (Vermivora chrysoptera) were photographed at Southeast Metro Park (off Hwy 71 east of Bergstrom Airport) on May 23rd.

A MACGILLIVRAY'S WARBLER (Oporornis tolmiei) was studied along Shoal Creek just north of 34th Street in Austin on May 23rd.

A PURPLE GALLINULE (Porphyrio martinica)) was sighted on May 22nd around the gazebo at Landa Park in New Braunfels.

A female GOLDEN-WINGED WARBLER (Vermivora chrysoptera) was studied at Nicholas Dawson Park in south Austin on May 21st.

An immature WHITE IBIS (Eudocimus albus) was in Temple on May 21st.

A lingering ANHINGA (Anhinga anhinga) has been present along Brushy Creek in Round Rock, with the latest sighting on May 20th.

A SANDERLING (Calidris alba) was photographed at the ponds at Hornsby Bend on May 17th and was still present as of May 19th.

A TRICOLORED HERON (Egretta tricolor0 was seen at Hornsby Bend on May 19th.

A BLACKPOLL WARBLER (Dendroica striata) was present at a private residence in the Hyde Park neighborhood in Austin on May 18th. Another one was seen that same day in far nw. Austin near Anderson Mill and Hwy 183.

A late HERMIT THRUSH (Catharus guttatus) was at a private residence in far w. Austin between Commons Ford and Emma Long Parks on May 18th.

Quite an outstanding number for the spring, 25 WHITE IBIS (Eudocimus albus) were at Shipp Lake in eastern Bastrop County on May 17th.

On May 17th, Temple Park on Belton Lake held 1 RUDDY TURNSTONE (Arenaria interpres) and 7 SANDERLINGS (Calidris alba).

A BLACK-BILLED CUCKOO (Coccyzus erythrophthalmus) was a great find in far nw. Austin on May 16th.

A LEAST TERN (Sternula antillarum) stopped over in Temple at Slough pond on May 16th.

--------------
For questions or updates about birds mentioned here or to report rare
or unusual bird sightings in the Austin area, please send an e-mail to
ecarpe@gmail.com.

--
Eric Carpenter
Rare Bird Alert Compiler, Travis Audubon Society