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

April 10, 2008

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, April 10th, 2008:

--- Exceptional Sightings ---

A COMMON BLACK-HAWK (Buteogallus anthracinus) was studied just north of RM 1431 at Vista Rock on April 2nd. There are very few documented records of this species in the Austin area.

Two HOODED ORIOLES (Icterus cucullatus) were photographed at a private residence southeast of the intersection of HWY 183 and RM 620 on March 28th, providing one of only a handful of solid records for this species in the last several years.

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

A LAZULI BUNTING (Passerina amoena) was near Spring Branch in Blanco County on April 6th.

A MAGNOLIA WARBLER (Dendroica magnolia) was in south Austin on April 5th.

A SCOTT'S ORIOLE (Icterus parisorum) was found in West Lake Hills on April 3rd.

A ROSS'S GOOSE (Chen rossii) was studied near loop 360 and Bee Caves in west Austin on April 3rd.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A pair of SCOTT'S ORIOLES (Icterus parisorum) are present northwest of Dripping Springs, last reported on April 6th.

A PALM WARBLER (Dendroica palmarum) was photographed at Commons Ford Park on the west side of Austin on March 9th and was still present as of March 22nd.

A GRAY CATBIRD (Dumetella carolinensis) has been present much of the winter at the Schaezler's Warbler Woods property near Cibolo. It was last reported there on March 24th. In addition, both COMMON PAURAQUE (Nyctidromus albicollis) and LONG-BILLED THRASHER (Toxostoma longirostre) have been seen as recently as March 20th.

LEAST GREBES (Tachybaptus dominicus) continue at Hornsby Bend where at least a pair of birds has been present for several months. The latest sighting of these birds was on March 25th.

A pair of RINGED KINGFISHERS (Megaceryle torquatus) has been present along the river at Pedernales Falls State Park, with the last report as of March 9th. Another pair is present around Hornsby Bend, with the last report of those birds on March 9th.

--- Rare sightings from previous weeks ---

Two YELLOW-THROATED WARBLERS (Dendroica dominica) were near Utley on March 31st and April 1st.

Two SCOTT'S ORIOLES (Icterus parisorum) were seen in Lago Vista on April 1st.

A SWALLOW-TAILED KITE (Elanoides forficatus) was near Utley on March 30th and it, or another, was seen again on April 3rd.

A BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAK (Pheucticus melanocephalus) was present (and photographed) near Spring Branch in Blanco County on March 29th and 30th.

Unusual for the spring, a TRICOLORED HERON (Egretta tricolor) was along the shore of Granger Lake on March 29th.

Interesting birds seen on Lake Buchanan on March 29th include 5 COMMON LOON (Gavia immer), 7 WESTERN GREBES (Aechmophorus occidentalis), and at least 30 BONAPARTE'S GULLS (Larus philadelphia).

In Williamson County, a SPRAGUE'S PIPIT (Anthus spragueii) along CR 192 and a CHESTNUT-COLLARED LONGSPUR (Calcarius ornatus) along CR 360 on March 29th were nice finds.

A BLACK-BELLIED PLOVER (Pluvialis squatarola) was near Utley on March 29th.

Three WHITE-BREASTED NUTHATCHES (Sitta carolinensis) were along Sunshine Road near the Little River crossing between Holland and Rogers on March 29th.

An early WILSON'S WARBLER (Wilsonia pusilla) was at the Capitol Grounds in Austin on March 29th.

Two WOOD THRUSH (Hylocichla mustelina) was at the Schaezler's Warbler Woods property near Cibolo on March 27th.

A LAZULI BUNTING (Passerina amoena) was studied near Wimberley on March 23rd.

A ZONE-TAILED HAWK (Buteo albonotatus) was near Hamilton Pool on March 23rd.

Another ZONE-TAILED HAWK (Buteo albonotatus) flew over the Schaezler's Warbler Woods property near Cibolo on March 22nd.

An early KENTUCKY WARBLER (Oporornis formosus) was near Utley on March 22nd.

A GREEN HERON (Butorides virescens) was along Town Lake near Barton Springs on March 21st.

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

March 27, 2008

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, March 27th, 2008:

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

A LAZULI BUNTING (Passerina amoena) was studied near Wimberly on March 23rd.

A ZONE-TAILED HAWK (Buteo albonotatus) was near Hamilton Pool on March 23rd.

Another ZONE-TAILED HAWK (Buteo albonotatus) flew over the Schaezler's Warbler Woods property near Cibolo on March 22nd.

An early KENTUCKY WARBLER (Oporornis formosus) was near Utley on March 22nd.

A GREEN HERON (Butorides virescens) was along Town Lake near Barton Springs on March 21st.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A GREEN-TAILED TOWHEE (Pipilo chlorurus) photographed at Southeast Metro Park on January 20th was still being seen as of March 17th. The park is off HWY 71 just east of FM 973 and HWY 45. The bird has been found off the northwest portion of the parking lot where the trailhead for the Primitive Trail is located, which is north of the ball fields.

A PALM WARBLER (Dendroica palmarum) was photographed at Commons Ford on the west side of Austin on March 9th and was still present as of March 22nd.

A GRAY CATBIRD (Dumetella carolinensis) has been present much of the winter at the Schaezler's Warbler Woods property near Cibolo. It was last reported there on March 24th. In addition, both COMMON PAURAQUE (Nyctidromus albicollis) and LONG-BILLED THRASHER (Toxostoma longirostre) have been seen as recently as March 20th.

A BROAD-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD (Selasphorus platycercus) first seen at a private residence near Bee Caves and 360 in southwest Austin on August 27th was still being seen as of March 15th.

LEAST GREBES (Tachybaptus dominicus) continue at Hornsby Bend where at least a pair of birds has been present for several months. The latest sighting of these birds was on March 25th.

A pair of RINGED KINGFISHERS (Megaceryle torquatus) has been present along the river at Pedernales Falls State Park, with the last report as of March 9th. Another pair is present around Hornsby Bend, with the last report of those birds on March 9th.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A pair of COMMON GOLDENEYES (Bucephala clangula) were at Walnut Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant on the east side of Austin on March 18th.

An early PROTHONOTARY WARBLER (Protonotaria citrea) and a couple of YELLOW-THROATED WARBLERS (Dendroica dominica) were noted near Utley in eastern Bastrop County on March 16th.

A GREEN HERON (Butorides virescens) was in northwest Austin on March 9th and again on March 16th.

The first report of WHIP-POOR-WILL (Caprimulgus vociferus) this spring was a rather early one near Utley on March 15th.

Four GREATER SCAUP (Aythya marila) were on Meadow Lake in Round Rock on March 10th.

Early FRANKLIN'S GULLS (Larus pipixcan) include 3 on Lake Walter E. Long on March 9th and 3 at Granger Lake on March 10th.

A LEAST GREBE (Tachybaptus dominicus) was at Mills Pond near Wells Branch on March 8th and March 9th.

A SAY'S PHOEBE (Sayornis saya) was seen at Tejas Camp on Lake Georgetown on March 8th.

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

March 20, 2008

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, March 20, 2008:


--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

A pair of COMMON GOLDENEYES (Bucephala clangula) were at Walnut Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant on the east side of Austin on March 18th.

An early PROTHONOTARY WARBLER (Protonotaria citrea) and a couple of YELLOW-THROATED WARBLERS (Dendroica dominica) were noted near Utley in eastern Bastrop County on March 16th.

A GREEN HERON (Butorides virescens) was in northwest Austin on March 9th and again on March 16th.

The first report of WHIP-POOR-WILL (Caprimulgus vociferus) this spring was a rather early one near Utley on March 15th.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A GREEN-TAILED TOWHEE (Pipilo chlorurus) photographed at Southeast Metro Park on January 20th was still being seen as of March 17th. The park is off HWY 71 just east of FM 973 and HWY 45. The bird has been found off the northwest portion of the parking lot where the trailhead for the Primitive Trail is located, which is north of the ball fields.

A PALM WARBLER (Dendroica palmarum) was photographed at Commons Ford Park on the west side of Austin on March 9th and was still present as of March 16th.

A GRAY CATBIRD (Dumetella carolinensis) has been present much of the winter at the Schaezler's Warbler Woods property near Cibolo. It was last reported there on March 13th. In addition, both COMMON PAURAQUE (Nyctidromus albicollis) and LONG-BILLED THRASHER (Toxostoma longirostre) have been seen as recently as March 13th.

A BROAD-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD (Selasphorus platycercus) first seen at a private residence near Bee Caves and 360 in southwest Austin on August 27th was still being seen as of March 15th.

LEAST GREBES (Tachybaptus dominicus) continue at Hornsby Bend where at least a pair of birds has been present for several months. The latest sighting of these birds was on March 18th.

A pair of RINGED KINGFISHERS (Megaceryle torquatus) has been present along the river at Pedernales State Park, with the last report as of March 9th. Another pair is present around Hornsby Bend, with the last report of those birds on March 9th.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

Four GREATER SCAUP (Aythya marila) were on Meadow Lake in Round Rock on March 10th.

Early FRANKLIN'S GULLS (Larus pipixcan) include 3 on Lake Walter E. Long on March 9th and 3 at Granger Lake on March 10th.

A LEAST GREBE (Tachybaptus dominicus) was at Mills Pond near Wells Branch on March 8th and March 9th.

A SAY'S PHOEBE (Sayornis saya) was seen at Tejas Camp on Lake Georgetown on March 8th.

An ANHINGA (Anhinga anhinga) was over Commerce Park in Round Rock on March 2nd.

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

March 13, 2008

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, March 13, 2008:

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

Four GREATER SCAUP (Aythya marila) were on Meadow Lake in Round Rock on March 10th.

A PALM WARBLER (Dendroica palmarum) was photographed at Commons Ford Park on the west side of Austin on March 9th.

A GREEN HERON (Butorides virescens) was in northwest Austin on March 9th.

Early FRANKLIN'S GULLS (Larus pipixcan) include 3 on Lake Walter E. Long on March 9th and 3 at Granger Lake on March 10th.

A LEAST GREBE (Tachybaptus dominicus) was at Mills Pond near Wells Branch on March 8th and March 9th.

A SAY'S PHOEBE (Sayornis saya) was seen at Tejas Camp on Georgetown Lake on March 8th.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A GREEN-TAILED TOWHEE (Pipilo chlorurus) photographed at Southeast Metro Park on January 20th was still being seen as of March 2nd. The park is off HWY 71 just east of FM 973 and HWY 45. The bird has been found off the northwest portion of the parking lot where the trailhead for the Primitive Trail is located, which is north of the ball fields.

A GRAY CATBIRD (Dumetella carolinensis) has been present much of the winter at the Schaezler's Warbler Woods property near Cibolo. It was last reported there on March 5th.

A BROAD-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD (Selasphorus platycercus) first seen at a private residence near Bee Caves and 360 in southwest Austin on August 27th was still being seen as of February 24th. It reappeared on November 21st after not having been seen since November 2nd.

LEAST GREBES (Tachybaptus dominicus) continue at Hornsby Bend where at least a pair of birds has been present for several months. The latest sighting of these birds was on March 8th.

A pair of RINGED KINGFISHERS (Megaceryle torquatus) has been present along the river at Pedernales Falls State Park, with the last report as of March 9th. Another pair is present around Hornsby Bend, with the last report of those birds on March 9th.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

An ANHINGA (Anhinga anhinga) was over Commerce Park in Round Rock on March 2nd.

A PEREGRINE FALCON (Falco peregrinus) was on the University of Texas tower on February 25th, and has been frequenting that area and other locations in downtown Austin since January.

A YELLOW-THROATED WARBLER (Dendroica dominica) was on private property at Sunrise Beach on Lake LBJ on February 24th.

Six ANHINGA (Anhinga anhinga) were over Cherry Springs Ranch in southeast Burnet County on February 23rd.

An early SCISSOR-TAILED FLYCATCHER (Tyrannus forficatus) was at Hornsby Bend on February 23rd.

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

March 6, 2008

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, March 6, 2008:

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

An ANHINGA (Anhinga anhinga) was over Commerce Park in Round Rock on March 2nd.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A GREEN-TAILED TOWHEE (Pipilo chlorurus) photographed at Southeast Metro Park on January 20th was still being seen as of March 2nd. The park is off HWY 71 just east of FM 973 and HWY 45. The bird has been found off the northwest portion of the parking lot where the trailhead for the Primitive Trail is located, which is north of the ball fields.

A GRAY CATBIRD (Dumetella carolinensis) has been present much of the winter at the Schaezler's Warbler Woods property near Cibolo. It was last reported there on March 5th.

A BROAD-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD (Selasphorus platycercus) first seen at a private residence near Bee Caves and 360 in southwest Austin on August 27th was still being seen as of February 24th. It reappeared on November 21st after not having been seen since November 2nd.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A PEREGRINE FALCON (Falco peregrinus) was on the University of Texas tower on February 25th, and has been frequenting that area and other locations in downtown Austin since January.

A YELLOW-THROATED WARBLER (Dendroica dominica) was on private property at Sunrise Beach on Lake LBJ on February 24th.

Six ANHINGA (Anhinga anhinga) were over Cherry Springs Ranch in southeast Burnet County on February 23rd.

An early SCISSOR-TAILED FLYCATCHER (Tyrannus forficatus) was at Hornsby Bend on February 23rd.

A BLACK-AND WHITE WARBLER (Mniotilta varia) was near Utley on February 19th.

A GREAT CRESTED FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus crinitus) in nw. Austin on February 20th was very unusual.

A SAY'S PHOEBE (Sayornis saya) was observed on the east side of the old Robert Mueller Airport in Austin on February 6th and was seen again as recently as February 19th.


--
Eric Carpenter

Rare Bird Alert Compiler, Travis Audubon Society

February 21, 2008

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, February 21, 2008:

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

A BLACK-AND WHITE WARBLER (Mniotilta varia) was near Utley on February 19th.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A GREEN-TAILED TOWHEE (Pipilo chlorurus) photographed at Southeast Metro Park on January 20th was still being seen as of February 18th. The park is off HWY 71 just east of FM 973 and HWY 45. The bird has been found off the northwest portion of the parking lot where the trailhead for the Primitive Trail is located, which is north of the ball fields.

A BROAD-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD (Selasphorus platycercus) first seen at a private residence near Bee Caves and 360 in southwest Austin on August 27th was still being seen as of February 20th. It reappeared on November 21st after not having been seen since November 2nd.

A PRAIRIE FALCON (Falco mexicanus) discovered along Cow Creek Road in w. Travis County on February 2nd was still present as of February 12th. It has been seen near the south end of the road, between the first and second water crossings.

A GREEN HERON (Butorides virescens) was in far northwest Austin on February 3rd and was still present as of February 10th.

A GRAY CATBIRD (Dumetella carolinensis) first noted at the Shaezler's Warbler Woods property near Cibolo on January 13th was still being seen as of Febuary 3rd.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A SAY'S PHOEBE (Sayornis saya) was observed on the east side of the old Robert Mueller Airport in Austin on February 6th and was seen again as recently as February 19th.

A PEREGRINE FALCON (Falco peregrinus) is being seen in downtown Austin at the southeast corner of Congress and 6th street as of February 4th.

In the northeast corner of Travis County on Febuary 4th, there was both a BURROWING OWL (Athene cunicularia) along Werchan Lane and a SHORT-EARED OWL (Asio flammeus) along Melber Lane.

Two CLAY-COLORED SPARROWS (Spizella pallida) were present (and photographed) in eastern Burnet County at Peaceful Springs Nature Preserve on February 2nd & 3rd.

--

Eric Carpenter
Rare Bird Alert Compiler, Travis Audubon Society

February 7, 2008

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, February 7, 2008:

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

A SAY'S PHOEBE (Sayornis saya) was observed on the east side of the old Robert Mueller Airport in Austin on February 6th.

A PEREGRINE FALCON (Falco peregrinus) is being seen in downtown Austin at the southeast corner of Congress and 6th street as of February 4th.

In the northeast corner of Travis County on Febuary 4th, there was both a BURROWING OWL (Athene cunicularia) along Werchan Lane and a SHORT-EARED OWL (Asio flammeus) along Melber Lane.

A PRAIRIE FALCON (Falco mexicanus) discovered along Cow Creek Road in w. Travis County on February 2nd was still present as of February 3rd. It has been seen near the south end of the road, between the first and second water crossings.

A GREEN HERON (Butorides virescens) was in far northwest Austin on February 3rd.

Two CLAY-COLORED SPARROWS (Spizella pallida) were present (and photographed) in eastern Burnet County at Peaceful Springs Nature Preserve on February 2nd & 3rd.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A GREEN-TAILED TOWHEE (Pipilo chlorurus) photographed at Southeast Metro Park on January 20th was still being seen as of January 28th. The park is off of HWY 71 just east of FM 973 and HWY 45. The bird has been found off the northwest portion of the parking lot where the trailhead for the Primitive Trail is located, which is north of the ball fields.

A BROAD-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD (Selasphorus platycercus) first seen at a private residence near Bee Caves and 360 in southwest Austin on August 27th was still being seen as of February 6th. It reappeared on November 21st after not having been seen since November 2nd.

LONG-BILLED THRASHERS (Toxostoma longirostre) continue at the Schaezler's Warbler Woods property near Cibolo with two birds present as of January 27th.

A GRAY CATBIRD (Dumetella carolinensis) first noted at the Shaezler's Warbler Woods property near Cibolo on January 13th was still being seen as of Febuary 3rd.

A few CAVE SWALLOWS (Petrochelidon fulva) are lingering in our area with several reports at different locations, with recent reports of a five birds in northeast Austin, several birds seen at Shipp Lake near Smithville on January 20th, and 50+ birds over Lake Bastrop on January 24th.

Recent wintering WHITE-EYED VIREO (Vireo griseus) sightings include a handful of other sightings around Austin during the month of January.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

An adult CALIFORNIA GULL (Larus californicus) was studied at the BFI Landfill (viewed from Blue Goose Road) in northeast Austin on January 30th.

A VERMILION FLYCATCHER (Pyrocephalus rubinus) was photographed at Austin's The Colony on January 27th.

A BLACK-AND-WHITE WARBLER (Mniotilta varia) was in Pflugerville at Gilleland Creek Park on January 27th, and is a bird that has likely been present all winter.

The Granger area was productive on January 27th with the following highlights: two BURROWING OWLS (Athene cunicularia) with one along CR 124 & another on CR 354, and a SAY'S PHOEBE (Sayornis saya) along CR 438.

A good number of geese were near Rogers on January 26th, including 63 CACKLING GEESE (Branta hutchinsii) and a lone ROSS'S GOOSE (Chen rossii).

On January 26th, 3 COMMON GOLDENEYES (Bucephala clangula) were at the sewage lagoons south of Rogers on FM 437, while another one was at the Holland sewage ponds.

A MOUNTAIN BLUEBIRD (Sialia currucoides) was photographed at Comal Park on the south side of Canyon Lake on January 26th. The park is officially closed for the winter.

A GREEN HERON (Butorides virescens) was along Lake Lady Bird near Shoal Creek on January 26th.

A PALM WARBLER (Dendroica palmarum) was studied at Commons Ford Park on January 26th.

A PURPLE FINCH (Carpodacus purpureus) was along Powell Road near Bastrop & Buescher State Park on January 24th. A BLACK-THROATED GREEN WARBLER (Dendroica virens) was studied along Austin's Lake Lady Bird near Shoal Creek on January 21st.

A SAY'S PHOEBE (Sayornis saya) was in northeast Travis County on January 19th. The bird was present off Skog Ln., 0.5 miles north of Lund Carlson Rd.

A NEOTROPIC CORMORANT (Phalacrocorax brasilianus) was on Shipp Lake near Smithville on January 20th.

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

January 31, 2008

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, January 31st, 2008:

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

A VERMILION FLYCATCHER (Pyrocephalus rubinus) was photographed at Austin's The Colony on January 27th.

A BLACK-AND-WHITE WARBLER (Mniotilta varia) was in Pflugerville at Gilleland Creek Park on January 27th, and is a bird that has likely
been present all winter.

The Granger area was productive on January 27th with the following highlights: two BURROWING OWLS (Athene cunicularia) with one along CR 124 & another on CR 354, and a SAY'S PHOEBE (Sayornis saya) along CR 438.

A good number of geese were near Rogers on January 26th, including 63 CACKLING GEESE (Branta hutchinsii) and a lone ROSS'S GOOSE (Chen rossii).

On January 26th, 3 COMMON GOLDENEYES (Bucephala clangula) were at the sewage lagoons south of Rogers on FM 437, while another one was at the Holland sewage ponds.

A MOUNTAIN BLUEBIRD (Sialia currucoides) was photographed at Comal Park on the south side of Canyon Lake on January 26th. The park is officially closed for the winter.

A GREEN HERON (Butorides virescens) was along Lady Bird Lake near Shoal Creek on January 26th.

A PALM WARBLER (Dendroica palmarum) was studied at Commons Ford Park on January 26th.

A PURPLE FINCH (Carpodacus purpureus) was along Powell Road near Bastrop & Beuscher State Parks on January 24th.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A GREEN-TAILED TOWHEE (Pipilo chlorurus) photographed at Southeast Metro Park on January 20th was still being seen as of January 28th. The park is off of HWY 71 just east of FM 973 and HWY 45. The bird has been found off the northwest portion of the parking lot where the trailhead for the Primitive Trail is located, which is north of the ball fields.

A BROAD-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD (Selasphorus platycercus) first seen at a private residence near Bee Caves and 360 in southwest Austin on August 27th was still being seen as of January 30th. It reappeared on November 21st after not having been seen since November 2nd.

LONG-BILLED THRASHERS (Toxostoma longirostre) continue at the Schaezler's Warbler Woods property near Cibolo with two birds present as of January 27th.

A GRAY CATBIRD (Dumetella carolinensis) first noted at the Shaezler's Warbler Woods property near Cibolo on January 13th was still being seen as of January 18th.

A YELLOW-THROATED WARBLER (Dendroica dominica) that wintered at a residence on Lake LBJ last year has returned again this winter and was still present as of January 17th.

A few CAVE SWALLOWS (Petrochelidon fulva) are lingering in our area with several reports at different locations, with recent reports of a five birds in northeast Austin, several birds seen at Shipp Lake near Smithville on January 20th, and 50+ birds over Lake Bastrop on January 24th.

Recent wintering WHITE-EYED VIREO (Vireo griseus) sightings include a handful of other sightings around Austin during the month of January.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A BLACK-THROATED GREEN WARBLER (Dendroica virens) was studied along Austin's Lady Bird Lake near Shoal Creek on January 21st.

A SAY'S PHOEBE (Sayornis saya) was in northeast Travis County on January 19th. The bird was present off Skog Ln., 0.5 miles north of Lund Carlson Rd.

A NEOTROPIC CORMORANT (Phalacrocorax brasilianus) was on Shipp Lake near Smithville on January 20th.

A PURPLE FINCH (Carpodacus purpureus) was observed near Old Manor Rd and Springdale Rd in northeast Austin on January 15th.

McKinney Roughs held a CASSIN'S VIREO (Vireo cassinii) as well as a BLACK-AND-WHITE WARBLER (Mniotilta varia) on January 15th.

A WHITE-TAILED KITE (Elanus leucurus) was along FM 969 in eastern Bastrop County on January 15th.

One ANHINGA (Anhinga anhinga) and one GRAY CATBIRD (Dumetella carolinensis) were at Hornsby Bend on January 12th.

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

January 24, 2008

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, January 24th, 2008:

--- EXCEPTIONAL SIGHTINGS---

An adult LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL (Larus fuscus) was present (and photographed) on Meadow Lake in Round Rock late the afternoon of January 2nd and has been seen there or on private property nearby as of January 6th. There are only a handful of Austin area records for this species, and none in the last couple of years. Meadow Lake is off of Settlement Drive, a quarter mile so north of its intersection with Old Settlers Drive. The small lake does not usually hold any gulls though there were hundreds there when the Lesser Black-backed was initially seen.

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

A GREEN-TAILED TOWHEE (Pipilo chlorurus) photographed at Southeast Metro Park on January 20th was still being seen as of January 23rd. The park is off of HWY 71 just east of FM 973 and HWY 45. The bird has been found off the northwest portion of the parking lot where the trailhead for the Primitive Trail is located, which is north of the ball fields.

A BLACK-THROATED GREEN WARBLER (Dendroica virens) was studied along Austin's Lady Bird Lake near Shoal Creek on January 21st.

A SAY'S PHOEBE (Sayornis saya) was in northeast Travis County on January 19th. The bird was present off Skog Ln., 0.5 miles north of Lund Carlson Rd.

A NEOTROPIC CORMORANT (Phalacrocorax brasilianus) was on Shipp Lake near Smithville on January 20th.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A BROAD-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD (Selasphorus platycercus) first seen at a private residence near Bee Caves and 360 in southwest Austin on August 27th was still being seen as of January 23rd. It reappeared on November 21st after not having been seen since November 2nd.

A RUBY-THROATED HUMMINGBIRD (Archilochus colubris) has been present (still being seen as of January 22nd) at a residence in West Lake Hills.

A GRAY CATBIRD (Dumetella carolinensis) first noted at the Shaezler's Warbler Woods property near Cibolo on January 13th was still being seen as of January 18th.

A YELLOW-THROATED WARBLER (Dendroica dominica) that wintered at a residence on Lake LBJ last year has returned again this winter and was still present as of January 17th.

A CHESTNUT-SIDED WARBLER (Dendroica pensylvanica) reported from the New Braunfels CBC on December 30th was still present as of January 5th. This bird is being seen in Hinman Island Park in New Braunfels.

A few CAVE SWALLOWS (Petrochelidon fulva) are lingering in our area with several reports at different locations, with recent reports of a five birds in northeast Austin, and several birds seen at Shipp Lake near
Smithville on January 20th.

Recent wintering WHITE-EYED VIREO (Vireo griseus) sightings include a handful of other sightings around Austin during the month of January.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A PURPLE FINCH (Carpodacus purpureus) was observed near Old Manor Rd and Springdale Rd in northeast Austin on January 15th.

McKinney Roughs held a CASSIN'S VIREO (Vireo cassinii) as well as a BLACK-AND-WHITE WARBLER (Mniotilta varia) on January 15th.

A WHITE-TAILED KITE (Elanus leucurus) was along FM 969 in eastern Bastrop County on January 15th.

The Schaezler's Warbler Woods near Cibolo held a LONG-BILLED THRASHER (Toxostoma longirostre) on January 13th.

One ANHINGA (Anhinga anhinga) and one GRAY CATBIRD (Dumetella carolinensis) were at Hornsby Bend on January 12th.

Unusual for winter, a NASHVILLE WARBLER (Vermivora ruficapilla) was at a private residence near Smithville on January 7th.

Two ANHINGAS (Anhinga anhinga) were at Meadow Lake in Round Rock on January 6th.

An OVENBIRD (Seiurus aurocapilla) was reported along the Blanco River in se. Blanco County on January 5th.
A birding/kayaking survey of the Colorado River between the 183/Montopolis Bridge and Hornsby Bend on January 5th produced the following highlights: 2 ANHINGA (Anhinga anhinga), a RINGED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle torquatus), and a WHITE-EYED VIREO (Vireo griseus).

The Granger CBC was held on January 5th with birding highlights that included ANHINGA (Anhinga Anhinga), several VIRGINIA RAILS (Rallus limicola), a BURROWING OWL (Athene cunicularia), SAY'S PHOEBES (Sayornis saya), WHITE-EYED VIREO (Vireo griseus) and LARK BUNTINGS (Calamospiza melanocorys).

The Balcones Canyonland CBC on January 4th had exciting birds including ASH-THROATED FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus cinerascens) and GRAY CATBIRD (Dumetella carolinensis).

A visit to the Gonzales area on January 4th was very productive with several great finds: an ANHINGA (Anhinga anhinga) at Woods Lake, 4 HARRIS'S HAWKS (Parabuteo unicinctus), a SAY'S PHOEBE (Sayornis saya), a PLUMBEOUS VIREO (Vireo plumbeus), 3 WHITE-EYED VIREOS (Vireo griseus), 18 YELLOW-HEADED BLACKBIRDS (Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus), and 14 PURPLE FINCHES (Carpodacus purpureus).

--
Eric Carpenter

Rare Bird Alert Compiler, Travis Audubon Society

January 17, 2008

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, January 17th, 2008:

--- EXCEPTIONAL SIGHTINGS---

A GREAT KISKADEE (Pitangus sulphuratus) was photographed near the entrance to
Willis Creek Park on Granger Lake on January 3rd. The bird has been looked for since but not yet relocated.

An adult LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL (Larus fuscus) was present (and photographed) on Meadow Lake in Round Rock late the afternoon of January 2nd and has been seen there or on private property nearby as of January 6th. There are only a handful of Austin area records for this species, and none in the last couple of years. Meadow Lake is off of Settlement Drive, a quarter mile so north of its intersection with Old Settlers Drive. The small lake does not usually hold any gulls though there were hundreds there when the Lesser Black-backed was initially seen.

A female BLACK SCOTER (Melanitta nigra) has been present at Lake Pflugerville. First found (and photographed) on November 17th, it was still being seen as of December 30th. Lake Pflugerville is at the intersection of Jesse Bohls and Weiss Lanes on the east side of Pflugerville.

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

A PURPLE FINCH (Carpodacus purpureus) was observed near Old Manor Rd and Springdale Rd in northeast Austin on January 15th.

McKinney Roughs held a CASSIN'S VIREO (Vireo cassinii) as well as a BLACK-AND-WHITE WARBLER (Mniotilta varia) on January 15th.

A WHITE-TAILED KITE (Elanus leucurus) was along FM 969 in eastern Bastrop County on January 15th.

The Schaezler's Warbler Woods near Cibolo held a LONG-BILLED THRASHER (Toxostoma longirostre) and a GRAY CATBIRD (Dumetella carolinensis) on January 13th.

One ANHINGA (Anhinga anhinga) and one GRAY CATBIRD (Dumetella carolinensis) were at Hornsby Bend on January 12th.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A BROAD-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD (Selasphorus platycercus) first seen at a private residence near Bee Caves and 360 in southwest Austin on August 27th was still being seen as of January 17th. It reappeared on November 21st after not having been seen since November 2nd.

A CHESTNUT-SIDED WARBLER (Dendroica pensylvanica) reported from the New Braunfels CBC on December 30th was still present as of January 5th. This bird is being seen in Hinman Island Park in New Braunfels.

An ANNA'S HUMMINGBIRD (Calypte anna) was photographed visiting a feeder on private property in Spring Branch (Blanco County) on December 19th, and was still present as of January 1st.

Six SCISSOR-TAILED FLYCATCHERS (Tyrannus forficatus) were along Old Settler's Blvd. in Round Rock as recently as January 1st.

A few CAVE SWALLOWS (Petrochelidon fulva) are lingering in our area with several reports at different locations, with recent reports of a single bird on the Bell County CBC as well as multiple birds in multiple locations on the Austin CBC, both counts being held on December 15th. Fifteen or more were present near Peaceable Kingdom (Bell County) on December 23rd. At least 5 birds continue in northeast Austin.

Recent wintering WHITE-EYED VIREO (Vireo griseus) sightings include one at the Schaezler's Warbler Woods property near Cibolo on January 1st and a handful of other sightings around Austin during the month of January.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

Unusual for winter, a NASHVILLE WARBLER (Vermivora ruficapilla) was at a private residence near Smithville on January 7th.

Two ANHINGAS (Anhinga anhinga) were at Meadow Lake in Round Rock on January 6th.

An OVENBIRD (Seiurus aurocapilla) was reported along the Blanco River in se. Blanco County on January 5th.

A birding/kayaking survey of the Colorado River between the 183/Montopolis Bridge and Hornsby Bend on January 5th produced the following highlights: 2 ANHINGA (Anhinga anhinga), a RINGED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle torquatus), and a WHITE-EYED VIREO (Vireo griseus).

The Granger CBC was held on January 5th with birding highlights that included ANHINGA (Anhinga Anhinga), several VIRGINIA RAILS (Rallus limicola), a BURROWING OWL (Athene cunicularia), SAY'S PHOEBES (Sayornis saya), WHITE-EYED VIREO (Vireo griseus) and LARK BUNTINGS (Calamospiza melanocorys).

The Balcones Canyonland CBC on January 4th had exciting birds including ASH-THROATED FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus cinerascens) and GRAY CATBIRD (Dumetella carolinensis).

A visit to the Gonzales area on January 4th was very productive with several great finds: an ANHINGA (Anhinga anhinga) at Woods Lake, 4 HARRIS'S HAWKS (Parabuteo unicinctus), a SAY'S PHOEBE (Sayornis saya), a PLUMBEOUS VIREO (Vireo plumbeus), 3 WHITE-EYED VIREOS (Vireo griseus), 18 YELLOW-HEADED BLACKBIRDS (Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus), and 14 PURPLE FINCHES (Carpodacus purpureus).

A RED-NAPED SAPSUCKER (Sphyrapicus nuchalis) was near Bastrop & Buescher State Park on January 2nd.

A ZONE-TAILED HAWK (Buteo albonotatus) first found near Spring Branch (Blanco County) on December 27th was still being seen as of January 1st.

A BLACK-AND-WHITE WARBLER (Mniotilta varia) was near La Grange on December 30th.

Two ZONE-TAILED HAWKS (Buteo albonotatus) were over Lake Austin near City Park on December 29th.

A PALM WARBLER (Dendroica palmarum) was in Tahitian Village in Bastrop on December 29th.

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

January 10th, 2008

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, January 10th, 2008:

--- Exceptional Sightings---

A GREAT KISKADEE (Pitangus sulphuratus) was photographed near the entrance to Willis Creek Park on Granger Lake (map) on January 3rd. The bird has been looked for since but not yet relocated.

An adult LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL (Larus fuscus) was present (and photographed) on Meadow Lake in Round Rock late the afternoon of January 2nd and has been seen there or on private property nearby as of January 6th. There are only a handful of Austin area records for this species, and none in the last couple of years. Meadow Lake is off of Settlement Drive, a quarter mile so north of its intersection with Old Settlers Drive. The small lake does not usually hold any gulls though there were hundreds there when the Lesser Black-backed was initially seen.

A female BLACK SCOTER (Melanitta nigra) has been present at Lake Pflugerville. First found (and photographed) on November 17th, it was still being seen as of December 30th. Lake Pflugerville is at the intersection of Jesse Bohls and Weiss Lanes on the east side of Pflugerville.

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

Unusual for winter, a NASHVILLE WARBLER (Vermivora ruficapilla) was at a private residence near Smithville on January 7th.

Two ANHINGAS (Anhinga anhinga) were at Meadow Lake in Round Rock on January 6th.

An OVENBIRD (Seiurus aurocapilla) was reported along the Blanco River in se. Blanco County on January 5th.

A birding/kayaking survey of the Colorado River between the 183/Montopolis Bridge and Hornsby Bend on January 5th produced the following highlights: 2 ANHINGA (Anhinga anhinga), a RINGED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle torquatus), and a WHITE-EYED VIREO (Vireo griseus).

The Granger CBC was held on January 5th with birding highlights that included ANHINGA (Anhinga Anhinga), several VIRGINIA RAILS (Rallus limicola), a BURROWING OWL (Athene cunicularia), SAY'S PHOEBES (Sayornis saya), WHITE-EYED VIREO (Vireo griseus) and LARK BUNTINGS (Calamospiza melanocorys).

The Balcones Canyonland CBC on January 4th had exciting birds including ASH-THROATED FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus cinerascens) and GRAY CATBIRD (Dumetella carolinensis).

A visit to the Gonzales area on January 4th was very productive with several great finds: an ANHINGA (Anhinga anhinga) at Woods Lake, 4 HARRIS'S HAWKS (Parabuteo unicinctus), a SAY'S PHOEBE (Sayornis saya), a PLUMBEOUS VIREO (Vireo plumbeus), 3 WHITE-EYED VIREOS (Vireo griseus), 18 YELLOW-HEADED BLACKBIRDS (Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus), and 14 PURPLE FINCHES (Carpodacus purpureus).


--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A BROAD-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD (Selasphorus platycercus) first seen at a private residence near Bee Caves and 360 in southwest Austin on August 27th was still being seen as of January 8th. It reappeared on November 21st after not having been seen since November 2nd.

A CHESTNUT-SIDED WARBLER (Dendroica pensylvanica) reported from the New Braunfels CBC on December 30th was still present as of January 5th. This bird is being seen in Hinman Island Park in New Braunfels.

An ANNA'S HUMMINGBIRD (Calypte anna) was photographed visiting a feeder on private property in Spring Branch (Blanco County) on December 19th, and was still present as of January 1st.

As many as three COMMON GOLDENEYES (Bucephala clangula) have been seen at Hornsby Bend recently. They were first noted on December 1st and were seen as recently as December 25th.

Six SCISSOR-TAILED FLYCATCHERS (Tyrannus forficatus) were along Old Settler's Blvd. in Round Rock as recently as January 1st.

A few CAVE SWALLOWS (Petrochelidon fulva) are lingering in our area with several reports at different locations, with recent reports of a single bird on the Bell County CBC as well as multiple birds in multiple locations on the Austin CBC, both counts being held on December 15th. Fifteen or more were present near Peaceable Kingdom (Bell County) on December 23rd. At least 5 birds continue in northeast Austin.

Recent wintering WHITE-EYED VIREO (Vireo griseus) sightings include one at the Schaezler's Warbler Woods property near Cibolo on January 1st.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A RED-NAPED SAPSUCKER (Sphyrapicus nuchalis) was near Bastrop & Buescher State Park on January 2nd.

A ZONE-TAILED HAWK (Buteo albonotatus) first found near Spring Branch (Blanco County) on December 27th was still being seen as of January 1st.

A BLACK-AND-WHITE WARBLER (Mniotilta varia) was near La Grange on December 30th.

Two ZONE-TAILED HAWKS (Buteo albonotatus) were over Lake Austin near City Park on December 29th.
A PALM WARBLER (Dendroica palmarum) was in Tahitian Village in Bastrop on December 29th.

A GRAY CATBIRD (Dumetella carolinensis) was in far northwest Austin on December 27th.

Single BROAD-TAILED HUMMINGBIRDS (Selasphorus platycercus) were noted at two private residences around Austin this past week: one near Shoal Creek on December 23rd, and the other on the west side of Austin between Commons Ford and Emma Long Parks on December 24th.

A NASHVILLE WARBLER (Vermivora ruficapilla) was studied at Hornsby Bend on December 23rd.

A visit to the Granger area was productive on December 23rd with the following highlights: a PRAIRIE FALCON (Falco mexicanus) over Sore Finger WMA, a BURROWING OWL (Athene cunicularia) along CR 354, and a SAY'S PHOEBE (Sayornis saya) along CR 345.

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

FAQ

January 3, 2008

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, January 3rd, 2008:

--- EXCEPTIONAL SIGHTINGS---

An adult LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL (Larus fuscus) was present (and photographed) on Meadow Lake in Round Rock late the afternoon of January 2nd. There are only a handful of records in the Austin area for this species, and none in the last couple of years. Meadow Lake is off of Settlement Drive, a quarter mile so north of its intersection with Old Settlers Drive. The small lake does not usually hold any gulls though there were hundreds there when the Lesser Black-backed was seen.

During the Austin CBC on December 15th, a TROPICAL PARULA (Parula pitiayumi) was carefully studied near the Austin Rowing Club on the north side of Lake Lady Bird (map) [formerly called Town Lake] in Austin. It has been seen consistently thru December 30th again frequenting the live oaks at this spot. The Austin Rowing Club is along the hike-and-bike trail a few hundred feet east of the Congress Avenue Bridge.

A female BLACK SCOTER (Melanitta nigra) has been present at Lake Pflugerville (map). First found (and photographed) on November 17th, it was still being seen as of December 30th. Lake Pflugerville is at the intersection of Jesse Bohls and Weiss Lanes on the east side of Pflugerville.

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

A RED-NAPED SAPSUCKER (Sphyrapicus nuchalis) was near Bastrop & Buescher State Park on January 2nd.

A ZONE-TAILED HAWK (Buteo albonotatus) first found near Spring Branch (Blanco County) on December 27th was still being seen as of January 1st.

A BLACK-AND-WHITE WARBLER (Mniotilta varia) was near La Grange on December 30th.

A CHESTNUT-SIDED WARBLER (Dendroica pensylvanica) was reported from the Comal County Christmas Bird Count on December 30th.

Two ZONE-TAILED HAWKS (Buteo albonotatus) were over Lake Austin near City Park on December 29th.
A PALM WARBLER (Dendroica palmarum) was in Tahitian Village in Bastrop on December 29th.

A GRAY CATBIRD (Dumetella carolinensis) was in far northwest Austin on December 27th.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A BROAD-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD (Selasphorus platycercus) first seen at a private residence near Bee Caves and 360 in southwest Austin on August 27th was still being seen as of January 2nd. It reappeared on November 21st after not having been seen since November 2nd.

An ANNA'S HUMMINGBIRD (Calypte anna) was photographed visiting a feeder on private property in Spring Branch (Blanco County) on December 19th, and was still present as of January 1st.

As many as three COMMON GOLDENEYES (Bucephala clangula) have been seen at Hornsby Bend recently. They were first noted on December 1st and were seen as recently as December 25th.

Six SCISSOR-TAILED FLYCATCHERS (Tyrannus forficatus) were along Old Settler's Blvd. in Round Rock as recently as January 1st.

A few CAVE SWALLOWS (Petrochelidon fulva) are lingering in our area with several reports at different locations, with recent reports of a single bird on the Bell County CBC as well as multiple birds in multiple locations on the Austin CBC, both counts being held on December 15th. Fifteen or more were present near Peaceable Kingdom (Bell County) on December 23rd.

Recent RINGED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle torquatus) reports include one bird along the Colorado River at Hornsby Bend during the Austin CBC on December 15th.

Recent wintering WHITE-EYED VIREO (Vireo griseus) sightings include one at the Schaezler's Warbler Woods property near Cibolo on January 1st.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

Single BROAD-TAILED HUMMINGBIRDS (Selasphorus platycercus) were noted at two private residences around Austin this past week: one near Shoal Creek on December 23rd, and the other on the west side of Austin between Commons Ford and Emma Long Parks on December 24th.

A NASHVILLE WARBLER (Vermivora ruficapilla) was studied at Hornsby Bend on December 23rd.

A visit to the Granger area was productive on December 23rd with the following highlights: a PRAIRIE FALCON (Falco mexicanus) over Sore Finger WMA, a BURROWING OWL (Athene cunicularia) along CR 354, and a SAY'S PHOEBE (Sayornis saya) along CR 345.

Two COMMON GOLDENEYES (Bucephala clangula) were discovered on Slough Pond in Temple on December 15th, with at least one bird still present as of December 19th.

A ZONE-TAILED HAWK (Buteo albonotatus) was reported from Palmetto State Park on December 18th.

A GRAY CATBIRD (Dumetella carolinensis) was at the Schaezler's Warbler Woods property near Cibolo on December 16th.

Two COUCH'S KINGBIRDS (Tyrannus couchii) are present at Roy Guerrero River Park just down river from Longhorn Dam on the east side of Austin. First located on December 4th, they have been seen again on December 13th and December 15th.

Highlights from the Bell County CBC held on December 15th include 14 BLACK-BELLIED WHISTLING-DUCK (Dendrocygna autumnalis) and 16 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE (Anser albifrons).

A single BANK SWALLOW (Riparia riparia) and a few NORTHERN ROUGH-WINGED SWALLOWS (Stelgidopteryx serripennis) were reported during the Austin CBC on December 15th east of the Austin airport.

Another COMMON GOLDENEYE (Bucephala clangula) was present on a golf course near McKinney Falls State Park on December 15th.

A CLAY-COLORED SPARROW (Spizella pallida) was carefully studied on private property near Elroy on December 15th.

Six SCISSOR-TAILED FLYCATCHERS (Tyrannus forficatus) were along McKinney Falls Parkway in southwest Austin on December 14th

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

FAQ

December 27, 2007

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, December 27th, 2007:

--- EXCEPTIONAL SIGHTINGS---

During the Austin CBC on December 15th, a TROPICAL PARULA (Parula pitiayumi) was carefully studied near the Austin Rowing Club on the north side of Lake Lady Bird [foremerly Town Lake] in Austin. It was seen again as recently as December 25th again frequenting the live oaks at this spot. The Austin Rowing Club is along the hike-and-bike trail a few hundred feet east of the Congress Avenue Bridge.

A female BLACK SCOTER (Melanitta nigra) has been present at Lake Pflugerville. First found (and photographed) on November 17th, it was still being seen as of December 18th. Lake Pflugerville is at the
intersection of Jesse Bohls and Weiss Lanes on the east side of Pflugerville.

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

Single BROAD-TAILED HUMMINGBIRDS (Selasphorus platycercus) were noted at two private residences around Austin this past week: one near Shoal Creek on December 23rd, and the other on the west side of Austin between Commons Ford and Emma Long Parks on December 24th.

A NASHVILLE WARBLER (Vermivora ruficapilla) was studied at Hornsby Bend on December 23rd.

A visit to the Granger area was productive on December 23rd with the following highlights: a PRAIRIE FALCON (Falco mexicanus) over Sore Finger WMA, a BURROWING OWL (Athene cunicularia) along CR 354, and a SAY'S PHOEBE (Sayornis saya) along CR 345.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

An ANNA'S HUMMINGBIRD (Calypte anna) was photographed visiting a feeder on private property in Spring Branch (Blanco County) on December 19th, and was still present as of December 22nd.

As many as three COMMON GOLDENEYES (Bucephala clangula) have been seen at Hornsby Bend recently. They were first noted on December 1st and were seen as recently as December 25th.

A BROAD-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD (Selasphorus platycercus) first seen at a private residence near Bee Caves and 360 in southwest Austin on August 27th was still being seen as of December 26th. It reappeared on November 21st after not having been seen since November 2nd.

Six SCISSOR-TAILED FLYCATCHERS (Tyrannus forficatus) were along Old Settler's Blvd. in Round Rock as recently as December 23rd.

A few CAVE SWALLOWS (Petrochelidon fulva) are lingering in our area with several reports at different locations, with recent reports of a single bird on the Bell County CBC as well as multiple birds in multiple locations on the Austin CBC, both counts being held on December 15th. Fifteen or more were present near Peaceable Kingdom (Bell County) on December 23rd.

Recent RINGED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle torquatus) reports include one bird along the Colorado River at Hornsby Bend during the Austin CBC on December 15th.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

Two COMMON GOLDENEYES (Bucephala clangula) were discovered on Slough Pond in Temple on December 15th, with at least one bird still present as of December 19th.

A ZONE-TAILED HAWK (Buteo albonotatus) was reported from Palmetto State Park on December 18th.

A GRAY CATBIRD (Dumetella carolinensis) was at the Schaezler's Warbler Woods property near Cibolo on December 16th.

Two COUCH'S KINGBIRDS (Tyrannus couchii) are present at Roy Guerrero River Park just down river from Longhorn Dam on the east side of Austin. First located on December 4th, they have been seen again on December 13th and December 15th.

Highlights from the Bell County CBC held on December 15th include 14 BLACK-BELLIED WHISTLING-DUCK (Dendrocygna autumnalis) and 16 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE (Anser albifrons).

A single BANK SWALLOW (Riparia riparia) and a few NORTHERN ROUGH-WINGED SWALLOWS (Stelgidopteryx serripennis) were reported during the Austin CBC on December 15th east of the Austin airport.

Another COMMON GOLDENEYE (Bucephala clangula) was present on a golf course near McKinney Falls State Park on December 15th.

A CLAY-COLORED SPARROW (Spizella pallida) was carefully studied on private property near Elroy on December 15th.

Six SCISSOR-TAILED FLYCATCHERS (Tyrannus forficatus) were along McKinney Falls Parkway in southwest Austin on December 14th.

On December 9th, Lake Buchanan held 11 WESTERN/CLARK'S GREBES as well as 15+ HORNED GREBES (Podiceps auritus).

Six HORNED GREBES (Podiceps auritus) were on Stillhouse Hollow Reservoir (Bell County) on December 8th.

A SOLITARY SANDPIPER (Tringa solitaria) was found along the river at Hornsby Bend on December 8th.

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

FAQ