March 12, 2009

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

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

Several migrants and returning breeding species have been reported in our area already. A couple of the more noteworthy early arrivals include: a WILSON'S PHALAROPE (Phalaropus tricolor) at Hornsby Bend on March 11th; 2 YELLOW-THROATED WARBLERS (Dendroica dominica) on March 7th, 1 NASHVILLE WARBLER (Vermivora ruficapilla) on March 10th, and a CLAY-COLORED SPARROW (Spizella pallida) on March 8th, all in the same subdivision in far northwest Austin (north of Anderson Mill & east of HWY 183).

A RED-NAPED SAPSUCKER (Sphyrapicus nuchalis) was studied near a neighborhood park in the Travis Country subdivision in southwest Austin on March 7th.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A pair of BLACK PHOEBES (Sayornis nigricans) are apparently nesting at Guadalupe River State Park. The birds can be seen along the river from the hiking trail that runs adjacent to the river from the picnic areas.

A female LONG-TAILED DUCK (Clangula hyemalis) was discovered on Lake Lady Bird (Town Lake) in Austin on February 15th. It has been photographed and seen by several folks thru at least March 1st. The bird is most readily seen on the water from either a kayak or canoe about halfway between Red Bud Island and the pedestrian bridge under MoPac. The bird has been seen from land a few times, either from the trails at Red Bud Island or the various access points near to where MoPac crosses the lake.

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 March 2nd.

An amazing 12 WESTERN BLUEBIRDS (Sialia mexicana) were photographed on Canyon Lake on January 24th, and were still present at least thru March 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.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A ZONE-TAILED HAWK (Buteo albonotatus) was seen near Wimberley on February 27th.

A female PURPLE FINCH (Carpodacus purpureus) was photogaphed at a backyard feeder at a private residence on Lake Travis the week of February 22nd.

A HUTTON'S VIREO (Vireo huttoni) was heard and seen well at private property a bit east of Natural Bridge Caverns in Comal County on February 24th.

Two ROSS'S GEESE (Chen rossii) visited the ponds at Hornsby Bend on February 23rd.

A ZONE-TAILED HAWK (Buteo albonotatus) was studied at Honey Creek SNA on Feburary 21st.

The first SCISSOR-TAILED FLYCATCHER (Tyrannus forficatus) for our area this spring was a bird photographed at Hornsby Bend on February 21st.

Early NORHTERN BOBWHITES (Colinus virginianus) were reported in the canyons around Barton Creek southwest of Austin the week of February 22nd.

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

March 5, 2009

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

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

A BLACK PHOEBE (Sayornis nigricans) was photographed along the river at Guadalupe River State Park on March 3rd.

A ZONE-TAILED HAWK (Buteo albonotatus) was seen near Wimberley on February 27th.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A female LONG-TAILED DUCK (Clangula hyemalis) was discovered on Lake Lady Bird (Town Lake) in Austin on February 15th. It has been photographed and seen by several folks thru at least March 1st. The bird is most readily seen on the water from either a kayak or canoe about halfway between Red Bud Island and the pedestrian bridge under MoPac. The bird has been seen from land a few times, either from the trails at Red Bud Island or the various access points near to where MoPac crosses the lake.

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 March 2nd .

An amazing 12 WESTERN BLUEBIRDS (Sialia mexicana) were photographed on Canyon Lake on January 24th, and were still present at least thru March 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.

A LONG-BILLED THRASHER (Toxostoma longirostre) continues at McKinney Falls State Park as of February 15th. 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 14th (as many as four of each have been present his winter).

A RINGED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle torquatus) was at Aquarena Springs in San Marcos on January 30th and was noted there again on February 14th.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A female PURPLE FINCH (Carpodacus purpureus) was photogaphed at a backyard feeder at a private residence on Lake Travis the week of February 22nd.

A HUTTON'S VIREO (Vireo huttoni) was heard and seen well at private property a bit east of Natural Bridge Caverns in Comal County on February 24th.

Two ROSS'S GEESE (Chen rossii) visited the ponds at Hornsby Bend on February 23rd.

A ZONE-TAILED HAWK (Buteo albonotatus) was studied at Honey Creek SNA on Feburary 21st.

The first SCISSOR-TAILED FLYCATCHER (Tyrannus forficatus) for our area this spring was a bird photographed at Hornsby Bend on February 21st.

Early NORHTERN BOBWHITES (Colinus virginianus) were reported in the canyons around Barton Creek southwest of Austin the week of February 22nd.

Two FERRUGINOUS HAWKS (Buteo regalis) were reported along HWY 130 (toll road) one-third and then two-thirds of the way between Hornsby Bend and the Manor area.

An early NORTHERN PARULA (Parula americana) was heard in western Bastrop County on February 18th.

A ZONE-TAILED HAWK (Buteo albonotatus) was studied in se. Williamson County along CR 438 on February 15th.

A GREEN-TAILED TOWHEE (Pipilo chlorurus) was discovered on February 13th on the north side of Canyon Lake, along a short trail where Hancock Road deadends into the lake. It was seen again (and photographed) on February 15th.

A PALM WARBLER (Dendroica palmarum) was seen again on February 15th at Commons Ford Park west of Austin. This bird has been observed on-and-off at this location for the past three winters.


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

February 26, 2009

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, February 26th, 2009:

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

A female PURPLE FINCH (Carpodacus purpureus) was photogaphed at a backyard feeder at a private residence on Lake Travis this week.

A HUTTON'S VIREO (Vireo huttoni) was heard and seen well at private property a bit east of Natural Bridge Caverns in Comal County on February 24th.

A lone ROSS'S GOOSE (Chen rossii) visited the ponds at Hornsby Bend on February 23rd.

A ZONE-TAILED HAWK (Buteo albonotatus) was studied at Honey Creek SNA on Feburary 21st.

The first SCISSOR-TAILED FLYCATCHER (Tyrannus forficatus) for our area this spring was a bird photographed at Hornsby Bend on February 21st.

Early NORTHERN BOBWHITES (Colinus virginianus) were reported in the canyons around Barton Creek southwest of Austin this week.

Two FERRUGINOUS HAWKS (Buteo regalis) were reported along HWY 130 (toll road) one-third and then two-thirds of the way between Hornsby Bend and the Manor area.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A female LONG-TAILED DUCK (Clangula hyemalis) was discovered on Lake Lady Bird (Town Lake) in Austin on February 15th. It has been photographed and seen by several folks thru at least February 22nd. The bird is most readily seen on the water from either a kayak or canoe about halfway betwen Red Bud Island and the pedestrian bridge under MoPac. The bird has been seen from land a few times, either from the trails at Red Bud Island or the various access points near to where MoPac crosses the lake.

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 15th. 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 14th (as many as four of each have been present his winter).

A RINGED KINGFISHER (Megaceryle torquatus) was at Aquarena Springs in San Marcos on January 30th and was noted there again on February 14th.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

An early NORTHERN PARULA (Parula americana) was heard in western Bastrop County on February 18th.

A ZONE-TAILED HAWK (Buteo albonotatus) was studied in se. Williamson County along CR 438 on February 15th.

A GREEN-TAILED TOWHEE (Pipilo chlorurus) was discovered on February 13th on the north side of Canyon Lake, along a short trail where Hancock Road deadends into the lake. It was seen again (and photographed) on February 15th.

A PALM WARBLER (Dendroica palmarum) was seen again on February 15th at Commons Ford Park west of Austin. This bird has been observed on-and-off at this location for the past three winters.

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).

--
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

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 15, 2007

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, November 15th, 2007:

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

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).

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A female BLACK-THROATED BLUE WARBLER (Dendroica caerulescens) discovered at the West Bouldin Greenbelt in Austin on October 30th was still present on November 4th. It was near the entrance at 1200 S. 6th
Street, at the intersection of the entrance trail and the trail that parallels the railroad tracks.

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 2nd.

The first sightings of BURROWING OWLS (Athene cunicularia) in the Granger area this fall came on October 14th with 2 birds at locations where birds spent the winter last year. One bird was along CR 124 on October 21st. More recent sightings include 2 birds along CR 354 on November 11th.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

Visits to Hornsby Bend have been productive as of late. A female HOODED MERGANSER (Lophodytes cucullatus) was on the ponds on November 7th, a SAY'S PHOEBE (Sayornis saya) was just north of the entrance to the pond on November 6th, and a SHORT-EARED OWL (Asio flammeus) was over the fields on November 4th.

An immature ANNA'S HUMMINGBIRD (Calypte anna) was photographed at a private residence near Dripping Springs on November 5th, and was still present as of November 6th.

An immature BALD EAGLE (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) was just north of Shipp Lake (Bastrop County) on November 4th.

The Granger area was productive on November 4th with a HOODED MERGANSER (Lophodytes cucullatus) on the lake, a VIRGINIA RAIL (Rallus limicola) in the marsh below the spillway, and one LARK BUNTING
(Calamospiza melanocorys) in Bell County near the intersection of Holt and Round Hall Roads (between Holland and Bartlett).

A LARK BUNTING (Calamospiza melanocorys) was in a mixed sparrow flock along Dawnview Road northwest of Dripping Springs on November 3rd.

Two female PURPLE FINCHES (Carpodacus purpureus) were reported from the Pedernales State Park birding blind on November 3rd. At least one bird stayed (and was photographed) at this location last winter.

An AMERICAN WOODCOCK (Scolopax minor) was at the Rocky Hill Ranch near Bastrop State Park on October 30th. Another was seen off of HWY 71 just southeast of Austin on October 31st.

At Union Grove WMA on Stillhouse Hollow Reservoir on October 27th, a heard-only KING RAIL (Rallus elegans) was in marshy area around the lake and there was an AMERICAN WOODCOCK (Scolopax minor) flushed near a group of willow trees.

A ZONE-TAILED HAWK (Buteo albonotatus) was in far eastern Travis County near Webberville Park on October 27th.

Another AMERICAN WOODCOCK (Scolopax minor) was northwest of the Arboretum in northwest Austin on October 26th.

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

FAQ

November 8, 2007

The Austin-Area Rare Bird Alert is a service of the Travis Audubon Society. This update is as of 9.00am, November 8th, 2007:

--- RARITIES FOUND THIS PAST WEEK---

Visits to Hornsby Bend have been productive this week. A female HOODED MERGANSER (Lophodytes cucullatus) was on the ponds on November 7th, a SAY'S PHOEBE (Sayornis saya) was just north of the entrance to the pond on November 6th, and a SHORT-EARED OWL (Asio flammeus) was over the fields on November 4th.

An immature ANNA'S HUMMINGBIRD (Calypte anna) was photographed at a private residence near Dripping Springs on November 5th, and was still present as of November 6th.

An immature BALD EAGLE (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) was just north of Shipp Lake (Bastrop County) on November 4th.

The Granger area was productive on November 4th with a HOODED MERGANSER (Lophodytes cucullatus) on the lake, a VIRGINIA RAIL (Rallus limicola) in the marsh below the spillway, and one LARK BUNTING
(Calamospiza melanocorys) in Bell County near the intersection of Holt and Round Hall Roads (between Holland and Bartlett).

A LARK BUNTING (Calamospiza melanocorys) was in a mixed sparrow flock along Dawnview Road northwest of Dripping Springs on November 3rd.

Two female PURPLE FINCHES (Carpodacus purpureus) were reported from the Pedernales State Park birding blind on November 3rd. At least one bird stayed (and was photographed) at this location last winter.

--- CONTINUING BIRDS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

A female BLACK-THROATED BLUE WARBLER (Dendroica caerulescens) discovered at the West Bouldin Greenbelt in Austin on October 30th was still present on November 4th. It was near the entrance at 1200 S. 6th
Street, at the intersection of the entrance trail and the trail that parallels the railroad tracks.

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 2nd.

BALD EAGLES (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) have been seen on-and-off at Lake Belton (Bell County) with the latest report of one bird seen on October 22nd.

The first sightings of BURROWING OWLS (Athene cunicularia) in the Granger area this fall came on October 14th with 2 birds at locations where birds spent the winter last year. One bird was along CR 124 on October 21st. More recent sightings include 3 birds at 2 locations along CR 354 on November 4th.

--- RARE SIGHTINGS FROM PREVIOUS WEEKS ---

An AMERICAN WOODCOCK (Scolopax minor) was at the Rocky Hill Ranch near Bastrop State Park on October 30th. Another was seen off of HWY 71 just southeast of Austin on October 31st.

At Union Grove WMA on Stillhouse Hollow Reservoir on October 27th, a heard-only KING RAIL (Rallus elegans) was in marshy area around the lake and there was an AMERICAN WOODCOCK (Scolopax minor) flushed near a group of willow trees.

A ZONE-TAILED HAWK (Buteo albonotatus) was in far eastern Travis County near Webberville Park on October 27th.

Another AMERICAN WOODCOCK (Scolopax minor) was northwest of the Arboretum in northwest Austin on October 26th.

A late WILSON'S WARBLER (Wilsonia pusilla) was at a private residence near Utley on October 25th.

An AMERICAN WOODCOCK (Scolopax minor) was flushed at a private residence near Stillhouse Hollow Reservoir on October 23rd.

A BALD EAGLE (Haliaeetus leucocephalus), a BLACK-NECKED STILT (Himantopus mexicanus), and a MARBLED GODWIT (Limosa fedoa) were near Utley (w. Bastrop County) on October 22nd.

A RED-NAPED SAPSUCKER (Sphyrapicus nuchalis) was photographed on private property near Utley (w. Bastrop County) on October 21st.

A partial specimen of an AMERICAN WOODCOCK (Scolopax minor) was picked up near Utley on October 20th.

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

FAQ