February 11, 2009

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

--- Exceptional Sightings---

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

A ZONE-TAILED HAWK (Buteo albonotatus) was spotted over Seguin on February 11th.

A WOOD THRUSH (Hylocichla mustelina) was present near Utley in western Bastrop County February 5th thru February 8th. This bird was seen in the same area in early December.

A LESSER YELLOWLEGS (Tringa flavipes) was on the ponds at Hornsby Bend on February 8th.

A kayaking trip down the Colorado River between the 183/Montopolis Bridge and Hornsby Bend on February 7th was productive with 2 ANHINGA (Anhinga anhinga), 1 GREATER SCAUP (Aythya marila), 1 ASH-THROATED FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus cinerascens), 2 NORTHERN ROUGH-WINGED SWALLOWS (Stelgidopteryx serripennis) and 1 RUSTY BLACKBIRD (Euphagus carolinus).

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A female BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAK (Pheucticus melanocephalus) has been present (and photographed) at a private residence in nw. Austin near the Arboretum from January 18th thru February 8th.

An amazing 12 WESTERN BLUEBIRDS (Sialia mexicana) were photographed on Canyon Lake on January 24th, and were still present at least thru February 2nd. These birds are located at Cranes Mill Park on the southside of the lake, about two-thirds of the way from the entrance to the end of the peninsula there.

Up to 3 FERRUGINOUS HAWKS (Buteo regalis) continue in the fields between FM 1625 and HWY 183 south of McKenzie Road as of Feburary 4th. These birds were first seen on the Austin Christmas Bird Count on December 20th.

A LONG-BILLED THRASHER (Toxostoma longirostre) continues at McKinney Falls State Park as of February 1st. This bird was also first located during the Austin CBC on December 20th.

At least one COMMON GOLDENEYE (Bucephala clangula) and at least one VIRGINIA RAIL (Rallus limicola) continue on and around the ponds at Hornsby Bend as of February 8th (as many as four of each have been present his winter).

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A COUCH'S KINGBIRD (Tyrannus couchii) was photographed at Bastrop State Park on February 4th.

Eleven HORNED GREBES (Podiceps auritus) were tallied on Stillhouse Hollow Lake at Union Grove WMA on January 31st.

A RINGED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle torquatus) was at Aquarena Springs in San Marcos on January 30th.

A GREEN HERON (Butorides virescens) was along Shoal Creek near where it runs into Lake Lady Bird in Austin on January 23rd.

Single ZONE-TAILED HAWKS (Buteo albonotatus) were noted on January 22nd in two locations. One was near the intersection of FM 969 and FM 1209 in western Bastrop County and the other was studied in Hays County near the intersection of FM 2327 and Red Hawk Road near Wimberley.

A WILSON'S WARBLER (Wilsonia pusilla) was studied at Palmetto State Park on January 18th and again on January 23rd.

--

Eric Carpenter

Rare Bird Alert Compiler, Travis Audubon Society

February 5, 2009

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

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

Eleven HORNED GREBES (Podiceps auritus) were tallied on Stillhouse Hollow Lake at Union Grove WMA on January 31st.

A RINGED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle torquatus) was at Aquarena Springs in San Marcos on January 30th.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

An amazing 12 WESTERN BLUEBIRDS (Sialia mexicana) were photographed on Canyon Lake on January 24th, and were still present at least thru February 2nd. These birds are located at Cranes Mill Park on the southside of the lake, about two-thirds of the way from the entrance to the end of the peninsula there.

Up to 3 FERRUGINOUS HAWKS (Buteo regalis) continue in the fields between FM 1625 and HWY 183 south of McKenzie Road as of Feburary 4th. These birds were first seen on the Austin Christmas Bird Count on December 20th.

A LONG-BILLED THRASHER (Toxostoma longirostre) continues at McKinney Falls State Park as of February 1st. This bird was also first located during the Austin CBC on December 20th.

At least one female COMMON GOLDENEYE (Bucephala clangula) and at least one VIRGINIA RAIL (Rallus limicola) continue on and around the ponds at Hornsby Bend as of February 3rd (as many as of each have been present his winter).

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A GREEN HERON (Butorides virescens) was along Shoal Creek near where it runs into Lake Lady Bird in Austin on January 23rd.

Single ZONE-TAILED HAWKS (Buteo albonotatus) were noted on January 22nd in two locations. One was near the intersection of FM 969 and FM 1209 in western Bastrop County and the other was studied in Hays County near the intersection of FM 2327 and Red Hawk Road near Wimberley.

A female BLACK-HEADED GROSBEAK (Pheucticus melanocephalus) has been present (and photographed) at a private residence in nw. Austin near the Arboretum from January 18th thru January 20th.

A WILSON'S WARBLER (Wilsonia pusilla) was studied at Palmetto State Park on January 18th and again on January 23rd.

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

December 25, 2008

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, December 25th, 2008:

--- Exceptional Sightings---

A COSTA'S HUMMINGBIRD (Calypte costae) was present (and photographed) at a private residence in Dripping Springs on November 17th, and was still being seen as of December 15th. The Austin-area checklist shows only one prior record for this species from 1974.

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

Twenty two Aechmorphorus (Western/Clarke's) grebes were noted on Lake Buchanan on December 23rd.A GOLDEN EAGLE (Aquila chrysaetos) was studied as it flew thru northwest Austin (near Cameron Rd & HWY 183).

A YELLOW-THROATED WARBLER (Dendroica dominica) was seen on December 22nd at a private residence on Lake LBJ. This marks the third year that this individual has wintered at this location.

The Austin Christmas Bird Count was held on December 20th with an unofficial total of 140 species tallied. The best birds of the day were 3 FERRUGINOUS HAWKS (Buteo regalis) videotaped over the fields between FM 1625 and HWY 183 south of McKenzie Road, and a LONG-BILLED THRASHER (Toxostoma longirostre) studied at McKinney Falls State Park. Both of these great finds were seen again the following day, when the thrahser was photographed. Please contact me for more specific directions to the Long-billed Thrasher.

Other good finds from the Austin CBC on December 20th include 4 COMMON GOLDENEYES (Bucephala clangula) , 4 heard-only VIRGINIA RAILS (Rallus limicola), a RINGED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle torquatus), a late SCISSOR-TAILED FLYCATCHER (Tyrannus forficatus) - all at Hornsby Bend - and a BLACK-THROATED GREEN WARBLER (Dendroica virens) in south Austin as well as YELLOW-HEADED BLACKBIRD (Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus) photographed near Elroy.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

An ANNA'S HUMMINGBIRD (Calypte anna) has been present at a private residence in the Spring Branch area (Blanco Co.) since November 22nd, last reported on December 6th.

A HORNED GREBE (Podiceps auritus) first found on Lake Pflugerville on November 22nd was still present as of December 5th.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

Thirteen MOUNTAIN BLUEBIRDS (Sialia currucoides) were seen on the Balcones Canyonland CBC on December 15th. The birds were seen near Hopewell Cemetery on HWY 285 in Williamson County and were still present in the area on December 16th.

A PALM WARBLER (Dendroica palmarum) was photographed at Hornsby Bend (along Pond 1W) on December 13th.

A lone SCISSOR-TAILED FLYCATCHER (Tyrannus forficatus) was still lingering at Hornsby Bend as of December 13th.

A RINGED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle torquatus) was seen along the Colorado River near the FM 973 bridge at Hornsby Bend on December 13th.

An adult male BROAD-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD (Selasphorus platycercus) was photographed at a private residence in the Great Hills area of northwest Austin on December 7th.

A PALM WARBLER (Dendroica palmarum) was photographed at Commons Ford Park on the west side of Austin on December 7th. This is likely a returning bird that has been present in the park two of the last three winters.

Seven HORNED GREBES (Podiceps auritus) were on Stillhouse Hollow Lake at Union Grove WMA on December 7th.

A RED-NAPED SAPSUCKER (Sphyrapicus nuchalis) was photographed in a northwest Austin neighborhood near 183/620 on December 6th.

A WOOD THRUSH (Hylocichla mustelina) was photographed at a private residence in Utley (western Bastrop County) on December 4th.

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

December 18, 2008

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, December 18th, 2008:

--- Exceptional Sightings---

A COSTA'S HUMMINGBIRD (Calypte costae) was present (and photographed) at a private residence in Dripping Springs on November 17th, and is still being seen as of December 15th. The Austin-area checklist shows only one prior record for this species from 1974.

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

Thirteen MOUNTAIN BLUEBIRDS (Sialia currucoides) were seen on the Balcones Canyonland CBC on December 15th. The birds were seen near Hopewell Cemetery on HWY 285 in Williamson County and were still present in the area on December 16th.

A PALM WARBLER (Dendroica palmarum) was photographed at Hornsby Bend (along Pond 1W) on December 13th.

A lone SCISSOR-TAILED FLYCATCHER (Tyrannus forficatus) was still lingering at Hornsby Bend as of December 13th.

A RINGED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle torquatus) was seen along the Colorado River near the FM 973 bridge at Hornsby Bend on December 13th.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

An ANNA'S HUMMINGBIRD (Calypte anna) has been present at a private residence in the Spring Branch area (Blanco Co.) since November 22nd, last reported on December 6th.

A HORNED GREBE (Podiceps auritus) first found on Lake Pflugerville on November 22nd was still present as of December 5th.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

An adult male BROAD-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD (Selasphorus platycercus) was photographed at a private residence in the Great Hills area of northwest Austin on December 7th.

A PALM WARBLER (Dendroica palmarum) was photographed at Commons Ford Park on the west side of Austin on December 7th. This is likely a returning bird that has been present in the park two of the last three winters.

Seven HORNED GREBES (Podiceps auritus) were on Stillhouse Hollow Lake at Union Grove WMA on December 7th.

A RED-NAPED SAPSUCKER (Sphyrapicus nuchalis) was photographed in a northwest Austin neighborhood near 183/620 on December 6th.

A WOOD THRUSH (Hylocichla mustelina) was photographed at a private residence in Utley (western Bastrop County) on December 4th.

A GREATER SCAUP (Aythya marila) was studied at Hornsby Bend on November 30th.

A lingering BLACK-BELLIED PLOVER (Pluvialis squatarola) was along the Granger Lake Dam on November 29th.

A WHITE-BREASTED NUTHATCH (Sitta carolinensis) was seen along FM 486 in the pecan bottom along Little River in Milam County on November 29th.

Two SCISSOR-TAILED FLYCATCHERS (Tyrannus forficatus) were still present in Round Rock at the Toyota Dealership along I-35 (Exit 254) on November 29th.

Four HORNED GREBES (Podiceps auritus) were on Stillhouse Hollow Lake at Union Grove WMA on November 28th.

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

December 11, 2008

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, December 11th, 2008:

--- Exceptional Sightings---

A COSTA'S HUMMINGBIRD (Calypte costae) was present (and photographed) at a private residence in Dripping Springs on November 17th, and is still being seen as of December 1st. The Austin-area checklist shows only one prior record for this species from 1974.

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

An adult male BROAD-TAILED HUMMINGBIRD (Selasphorus platycercus) was photographed at a private residence in the Great Hills area of northwest Austin on December 7th.

A PALM WARBLER (Dendroica palmarum) was photographed at Commons Ford Park on the west side of Austin on December 7th. This is likely a returning bird that has been present in the park two of the last three winters.

Seven HORNED GREBES (Podiceps auritus) were on Stillhouse Hollow Lake at Union Grove WMA on December 7th.

A RED-NAPED SAPSUCKER (Sphyrapicus nuchalis) was photographed in a northwest Austin neighborhood near 183/620 on December 6th.

A WOOD THRUSH (Hylocichla mustelina) was photographed at a private residence in Utley (western Bastrop County) on December 4th.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

An ANNA'S HUMMINGBIRD (Calypte anna) has been present at a private residence in the Spring Branch area (Blanco Co.) since November 22nd, last reported on December 6th.

A HORNED GREBE (Podiceps auritus) first found on Lake Pflugerville on November 22nd was still present as of December 5th.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A GREATER SCAUP (Aythya marila) was studied at Hornsby Bend on November 30th.

A lingering BLACK-BELLIED PLOVER (Pluvialis squatarola) was along the Granger Lake Dam on November 29th.

A WHITE-BREASTED NUTHATCH (Sitta carolinensis) was seen along FM 486 in the pecan bottom along Little River in Milam County on November 29th.

Two SCISSOR-TAILED FLYCATCHERS (Tyrannus forficatus) were still present in Round Rock at the Toyota Dealership along I-35 (Exit 254) on November 29th.

Four HORNED GREBES (Podiceps auritus) were on Stillhouse Hollow Lake at Union Grove WMA on November 28th.

A SAY'S PHOEBE (Sayornis saya) was reported from Lake Travis off of Hurst Creek Road on November 26th.

A BLACK-BELLIED PLOVER (Pluvialis squatarola) was seen on a private ranch between Belton and Temple on November 25th.

A RINGED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle torquatus) has been along the river at Hornsby Bend as recently as November 23rd.

A rather late BALTIMORE ORIOLE (Icterus galbula) was at private residence near Utley (w. Bastrop County) on November 22nd.

A ZONE-TAILED HAWK (Buteo albonotatus) was studied in the Spring Branch area (Blanco Co.) on November 22nd.

Union Grove WMA at Stillhouse Hollow Lake held 4 HORNED GREBES (Podiceps auritus) and a late BLACK-BELLIED PLOVER (Pluvialis squatarola) on November 22nd.

Eight SCISSOR-TAILED FLYCATCHERS (Tyrannus forficatus) were still lingering in Round Rock along Old Settler's Blvd. as of November 21st.

--

Eric Carpenter

Rare Bird Alert Compiler,

Travis Audubon Society

December 4, 2008

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, December 4th, 2008:

--- Exceptional Sightings---

A COSTA'S HUMMINGBIRD (Calypte costae) was present (and photographed) at a private residence in Dripping Springs on November 17th, and is still being seen as of December 1st. The Austin-area checklist shows only one prior record for this species from 1974.

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

A GREATER SCAUP (Aythya marila) was studied at Hornsby Bend on November 30th.

A lingering BLACK-BELLIED PLOVER (Pluvialis squatarola) was along the Granger Lake Dam on November 29th.

A WHITE-BREASTED NUTHATCH (Sitta carolinensis) was seen along FM 486 in the pecan bottom along Little River in Milam County on November 29th.

Two SCISSOR-TAILED FLYCATCHERS (Tyrannus forficatus) were still present in Round Rock at the Toyota Dealership along I-35 (Exit 254) on November 29th.

Four HORNED GREBES (Podiceps auritus) were on Stillhouse Hollow Lake at Union Grove WMA on November 28th.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

An ANNA'S HUMMINGBIRD (Calypte anna) has been present at a private residence in the Spring Branch area (Blanco Co.) since November 22nd, last reported on November 29th.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A SAY'S PHOEBE (Sayornis saya) was reported from Lake Travis off of Hurst Creek Road on November 26th.

A BLACK-BELLIED PLOVER (Pluvialis squatarola) was seen on a private ranch between Belton and Temple on November 25th.

A RINGED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle torquatus) has been along the river at Hornsby Bend as recently as November 23rd.

A rather late BALTIMORE ORIOLE (Icterus galbula) was at private residence near Utley (w. Bastrop County) on November 22nd.

A ZONE-TAILED HAWK (Buteo albonotatus) was studied in the Spring Branch area (Blanco Co.) on November 22nd.

Union Grove WMA at Stillhouse Hollow Lake held 4 HORNED GREBES (Podiceps auritus) and a late BLACK-BELLIED PLOVER (Pluvialis squatarola) on November 22nd.

A HORNED GREBE (Podiceps auritus) was at Lake Pflugerville on November 22nd.

Eight SCISSOR-TAILED FLYCATCHERS (Tyrannus forficatus) were still lingering in Round Rock along Old Settler's Blvd. as of November 21st.

--

Eric Carpenter

Rare Bird Alert Compiler, Travis Audubon Society

December 20, 2007

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, December 20th, 2007:

--- Exceptional Sightings---

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.

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 in Austin. It was seen again on December 16th 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.

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

An ANNA'S HUMMINGBIRD (Calypte anna) was photographed visiting a feeder on private property in Spring Branch (Blanco County) on December 19th.

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.

Three SCISSOR-TAILED FLYCATCHERS (Tyrannus forficatus) were along Old Settler's Blvd. in Round Rock as of December 17th.

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.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

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 16th.

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 19th. It reappeared on November 21st after not having been seen since November 2nd.

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.

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 ---

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.

A CHESTNUT-SIDED WARBLER (Dendroica pensylvanica) and a PURPLE FINCH (Carpodacus purpureus) were both in the Fairview Cemetery on the east side of Bastrop on December 3rd.

Quite rare for our area, a first-year female TOWNSEND'S WARBLER (Dendroica townsendi) was photographed December 2nd at the Pedernales Falls State Park bird blind.

A ZONE-TAILED HAWK (Buteo albonotatus) was over Commons Ford Park on the west side of Austin on December 1st. The park is located on Commons Ford Road, off of Cuernavaca Rd near Bee Caves Road.

Fifteen or more SCISSOR-TAILED FLYCATCHERS (Tyrannus forficatus) were roosting off of Mays Street in Round Rock as of November 30th.

--

Eric Carpenter
Rare Bird Alert Compiler, Travis Audubon Society

FAQ

December 13, 2007

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, December 13th, 2007:

--- Exceptional Sightings---

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 9th. Lake Pflugerville is at the
intersection of Jesse Bohls and Weiss Lanes on the east side of Pflugerville.

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

A few CAVE SWALLOWS (Petrochelidon fulva) are lingering in our area with recent reports of up to 15 just northeast of HWY 183/Cameron Road as of December 12th, one or more at Lake Pflugerville as of December
8th, and at least 45 over Hornsby Bend on December 8th.

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.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

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 8th.

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 13th. It reappeared on
November 21st after not having been seen since November 2nd.

Recent sightings of BURROWING OWLS (Athene cunicularia) in the Granger area include one bird along CR 354 on November 17th.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A CHESTNUT-SIDED WARBLER (Dendroica pensylvanica) and a PURPLE FINCH (Carpodacus purpureus) webe both in the Fairview Cemetery on the east side of Bastrop on December 3rd.

Quite rare for our area, a first-year female TOWNSEND'S WARBLER (Dendroica townsendi) was photographed December 2nd at the Pedernales Falls State Park bird blind.

A ZONE-TAILED HAWK (Buteo albonotatus) was over Commons Ford Park on the west side of Austin on December 1st. The park is located on Commons Ford Road, off of Cuernavaca Rd near Bee Caves Road.

Fifteen or more SCISSOR-TAILED FLYCATCHERS (Tyrannus forficatus) were roosting off of Mays Street in Round Rock as of November 30th.

A CASSIN'S VIREO (Vireo cassinii) was carefully observed at McKinney Roughs Natural Area on November 29th. Also at this location was a GRAY CATBIRD (Dumetella carolinensis).

A lingering OVENBIRD (Seiurus aurocapilla) visited a private residence near Utley on November 29th.

A "WESTERN"-TYPE FLYCATCHER was studied at McKinney Roughs Natural Area, along the Coyote Trail, on November 28th.

A lingering SCISSOR-TAILED FLYCATCHER (Tyrannus forficatus) was in Belton on November 27th.

A YELLOW-HEADED BLACKBIRD (Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus) was along Lund Road in eastern Travis County on November 26th.

Birding on Lake Buchanan on November 24th was excellent with the following outstanding finds: 2 PACIFIC LOONS (Gavia pacifica) were in the cove along HWY 261; 6 HORNED GREBES (Podiceps auritus) were off CR 225; a lingering SOLITARY SANDPIPER (Tringa solitaria) on a stock pond at the intersection of FM 2900/FM 2233; and the area around the Llano County Boat Ramp off HWY 261 held 3 AMERICAN AVOCETS (Recurvirostra americana), an adult CALIFORNIA GULL (Larus californicus), and three HERRING GULLS (Larus argentatus). All of these birds were photographed.

A MOUNTAIN BLUEBIRD (Sialia currucoides) was photographed near LBJ State Park on November 24th. The bird was seen along HWY 290 about .5 miles west of the Park Road 1 intersection, still in Blanco County.

A BLACK-THROATED GREEN WARBLER (Dendroica virens) was lingering near Utley (Bastrop County) on November 23rd.

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

FAQ

December 6, 2007

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, December 6th, 2007:

--- EXCEPTIONAL SIGHTINGS---

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 5th. Lake Pflugerville is at the intersection of Jesse Bohls and Weiss Lanes on the east side of Pflugerville.

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

A CHESTNUT-SIDED WARBLER (Dendroica pensylvanica) and a PURPLE FINCH (Carpodacus purpureus) were both in the Fairview Cemetery on the east side of Bastrop on December 3rd.

Quite rare for our area, a first-year female TOWNSEND'S WARBLER (Dendroica townsendi) was photographed December 2nd at the Pedernales Falls State Park bird blind.

A ZONE-TAILED HAWK (Buteo albonotatus) was over Commons Ford Park on the west side of Austin on December 1st. The park is located on Commons Ford Road, off of Cuernavaca Rd near Bee Caves Road.

Fifteen or more SCISSOR-TAILED FLYCATCHERS (Tyrannus forficatus) were roosting off of Mays Street in Round Rock as of November 30th.

A CASSIN'S VIREO (Vireo cassinii) was carefully observed at McKinney Roughs Natural Area on November 29th. Also at this location was a GRAY CATBIRD (Dumetella carolinensis).

A lingering OVENBIRD (Seiurus aurocapilla) visited a private residence near Utley on November 29th.

--- 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 December 2nd. It reappeared on November 21st after not having been seen since November 2nd.

Recent sightings of BURROWING OWLS (Athene cunicularia) in the Granger area include one bird along CR 354 on November 17th.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A "WESTERN"-TYPE FLYCATCHER was studied at McKinney Roughs Natural Area, along the Coyote Trail, on November 28th.

A lingering SCISSOR-TAILED FLYCATCHER (Tyrannus forficatus) was in Belton on November 27th.

A YELLOW-HEADED BLACKBIRD (Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus) was along Lund Road in eastern Travis County on November 26th.

Birding on Lake Buchanan on November 24th was excellent with the following outstanding finds: 2 PACIFIC LOONS (Gavia pacifica) were in the cove along HWY 261; 6 HORNED GREBES (Podiceps auritus) were off CR 225; a lingering SOLITARY SANDPIPER (Tringa solitaria) on a stock pond at the intersection of FM 2900/FM 2233; and the area around the Llano County Boat Ramp off HWY 261 held 3 AMERICAN AVOCETS (Recurvirostra americana), an adult CALIFORNIA GULL (Larus californicus), and three HERRING GULLS (Larus argentatus). All of these birds were photographed.

A MOUNTAIN BLUEBIRD (Sialia currucoides) was photographed near LBJ State Park on November 24th. The bird was seen along HWY 290 about .5 miles west of the Park Road 1 intersection, still in Blanco County.

A BLACK-THROATED GREEN WARBLER (Dendroica virens) was lingering near Utley (Bastrop County) on November 23rd.

An immature SURF SCOTER (Melanitta perspicillata) was seen on Lake Pflugerville on November 18th.

A SHORT-EARED OWL (Asio flammeus) was cruising over the fields just north of Shipp Lake (eastern Bastrop County) on November 18th.

A visit to the Granger Lake area on November 17th was productive, with some of the highlights being: 3 ANHINGAS (Anhinga Anhinga) circling over the lake, 1 PRAIRIE FALCON (Falco mexicanus) over Willis Creek Park, and a lone LARK BUNTING (Calamospiza melanocorys) along CR 354 just east of CR 350.

A VIRGINIA RAIL (Rallus limicola) was spotted at the Union Grove Wildlife area on Stillhouse Hollow Lake (Bell County) on November 16th.

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

FAQ

November 29, 2007

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, November 29th, 2007:

--- Exceptional Sightings---

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 November 25th. Lake Pflugerville is at the
intersection of Jesse Bohls and Weiss Lanes on the east side of Pflugerville.

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

A "WESTERN"-type FLYCATCHER was studied at McKinney Roughs Natural Area, along the Coyote Trail, on November 28th.

A lingering SCISSOR-TAILED FLYCATCHER (Tyrannus forficatus) was in Belton on November 27th.

A YELLOW-HEADED BLACKBIRD (Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus) was along Lund Road in eastern Travis County on November 26th.

Birding on Lake Buchanan on November 24th was excellent with the following outstanding finds: 2 PACIFIC LOONS (Gavia pacifica) were in the cove along HWY 261; 6 HORNED GREBES (Podiceps auritus) were off CR 225; a lingering SOLITARY SANDPIPER (Tringa solitaria) on a stock pond at the intersection of FM 2900/FM 2233; and the area around the Llano County Boat Ramp off HWY 261 held 3 AMERICAN AVOCETS (Recurvirostra americana), an adult CALIFORNIA GULL (Larus californicus), and three
HERRING GULLS (Larus argentatus). All of these birds were photographed.

A MOUNTAIN BLUEBIRD (Sialia currucoides) was photographed near LBJ State Park on November 24th. The bird was seen along HWY 290 about .5 miles west of the Park Road 1 intersection, still in Blanco County.

A BLACK-THROATED GREEN WARBLER (Dendroica virens) was lingering near Utley (Bastrop County) on November 23rd.

--- 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 November 28th. It reappeared on November 21st after not having been seen since November 2nd.

Recent sightings of BURROWING OWLS (Athene cunicularia) in the Granger area include one bird along CR 354 on November 17th.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

An immature SURF SCOTER (Melanitta perspicillata) was seen on Lake Pflugerville on November 18th.

A SHORT-EARED OWL (Asio flammeus) was cruising over the fields just north of Shipp Lake (eastern Bastrop County) on November 18th.

A visit to the Granger Lake area on November 17th was productive, with some of the highlights being: 3 ANHINGAS (Anhinga Anhinga) circling over the lake, 1 PRAIRIE FALCON (Falco mexicanus) over Willis Creek Park, and a lone LARK BUNTING (Calamospiza melanocorys) along CR 354 just east of CR 350.

A VIRGINIA RAIL (Rallus limicola) was spotted at the Union Grove Wildlife area on Stillhouse Hollow Lake (Bell County) on November 16th.

A SAY'S PHOEBE (Sayornis saya) was near the main parking lot at Lake Pflugerville on November 12th.

On November 11th, the area around Granger held a few interesting birds including a SAY'S PHOEBE (Sayornis saya) along the Granger Lake Dam, and the following birds all along CR 438 southeast of Thrall: an
ASH-THROATED FLYCATCHER (Myiarchus cinerascens), a GREEN-TAILED TOWHEE (Pipilo chlorurus), a LARK BUNTING (Calamospiza melanocorys) and a rather late DICKCISSEL (Spiza Americana).

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

FAQ