Bird
Reports
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| Northern Flicker
(yellow-shafted); photo by Peggy Harding |
Northeast Texas Bird Report, May 2008
by Peter Barnes
Despite relatively few cold fronts and rain to hold up migrants, the month was notable for unusual numbers and variety of migrant warblers, with quite spectacular concentrations of passerine migrants at Lake Tawakoni in early and mid-May.
Two Anhingas and a Common Moorhen were at Gus Engeling WMA on March 3 (DC, DL). Migrant raptors included one Mississippi Kite at Lake Tyler on May 3 (AR, JMu), 3 in Smith Co. on May 10 (PB, DS, AR), and a Peregrine Falcon in Rains Co. on May 11 (RBa). Shorebird reports were few, as water levels were high, limiting habitat in accessible areas. Seven White-rumped Sandpipers were in Anderson Co. on May 3 (DC, DL). Twenty-five Franklin’s Gulls were south of Tyler on May 8 (PB), and a Least Tern was at Richland Creek WMA, Navarro Co., on May 25 (DC, DL). A Greater Roadrunner was in Cherokee Co. on May 1 (JPu). A Bank Swallow was in Henderson Co. on May 3 (DC, DL) and 2 were at Camp Tyler on May 15 (PB).
Lake Tawakoni
State Park had amazing numbers of migrant flycatchers on May 7, with 12
Alder, 6 Willow, 36 Least and 1 Yellow-bellied Flycatcher on May 7 (all RK).
An Alder/Willow Flycatcher was south of Tyler on May 15 (PB), an Alder
Flycatcher was in Canton on May 16 (DOh) and a Yellow-bellied Flycatcher was
at Lake Tawakoni State Park in May 16 (RK). Five Olive-sided Flycatchers
were more than usual for May, with 2 at Camp Tyler on May 15 (PB), 2 in
Canton on May 16 (DOh), and one at Lake Tawakoni State Park on May 16 (RK).
A Veery was observed at Lake Tawakoni, Van Zandt Co., on May 12-13 and a
Gray-cheeked Thrush was there on May 13 (RK). Single Warbling Vireos were at
Camp Tyler on May 3 (AR, JMu) and south of Tyler on May 15 (PB). Two
Philadelphia Vireos were south of Tyler on May 8 and one was at Bellwood
Lake on May 16 (all PB). Lake Tawakoni State Park hosted a good
concentration of 12 Warbling, 2 Philadelphia and 4 Blue-headed Vireos on May
16 (all RK).
Migrant warblers were the highlight of the month, with good variety and
numbers of common and less common species. Lake Tawakoni, Van Zandt Co. held
an astounding number of warbler migrants on May 16, including hundreds of
Yellow and Wilson’s Warblers, 6 Chestnut-sided, 2 Magnolia, 3 Blackburnian,
3 Bay-breasted and 2 Canada Warblers, as well as a Blackpoll and 8 American
Redstarts (all RK). Of the more common species, a total of 15 Chestnut-sided
Warblers were reported this month, including single birds at Bellwood Lake
on May 1 (AR, JMu), Tyler State Park on May 2 (fide BS), Camp Tyler on May 4
(JDa, AB), Canton on May 17 (DOh), 2 at Lake Tawakoni State Park on May 13 (RK),
and 3 at Rose Rudman Park in Tyler on May 16 (EF). Eleven Magnolia Warblers
were seen, including single birds at Tyler State Park on May 2 (fide BS),
Gus Engeling WMA on May 3 (DC, DL), south of Tyler on May 12 and 15 (PB),
Gregg Co. on May 15 (DnW), Canton on May 17 (DOh), and 3 at Tyler State Park
on May 6 (BS). Eleven Blackburnian Warblers were an unusually high number,
with single birds at Tyler State Park on May 2 (fide BS), Lake Tawakoni
State Park on May 7 (RK), Canton on May 17 (DOh), 2 in Smith Co. on May 6 (PB,
JDa), and 3 at Lake Tawakoni, Van Zandt Co., on May 13 (RK). An Ovenbird was
at Lake Tawakoni State Park on May 7 (RK) and a Bay-breasted Warbler was at
Tyler State Park on May 2 (fide BS). Canada, Golden-winged Warblers and
Blackpolls are among our least common regular migrants, so it was notable
that a total of 5 Canada Warblers were reported, including 2 at Camp Tyler
on May 4 (JDa, AB) and 1 at Lake Tawakoni State Park on May 3 (RK), 2
Golden-winged Warblers were seen, one at Lake Tawakoni State Park on May 3 (RK)
and one south of Tyler on May 7 (PB), and 3 Blackpolls were reported,
including one at Lake Tawakoni State Park on May 7 (RK) and another at Camp
Tyler on May 15 (PB). Numbers of the later migrants, Wilson’s and Mourning
Warblers, were about average, with 2 Wilson’s Warblers at Camp Tyler on May
10 (JDa, PB), 3 in Smith Co. on May 15 (PB), and 2 in Canton on May 16 (DOh).
One Mourning Warbler was at Lake Tawakoni State Park on May 3 (MW) and 2
were at Lake Tawakoni, Van Zandt Co., on May 13 (RK). Of our less common
breeding warblers, 2 Swainson’s Warblers were at Gus Engeling WMA on May 3
(DC, DL), and a Louisiana Waterthrush was at the Old Sabine Bottom WMA on
May 2 (AR, JMu).
A
Clay-colored Sparrow was in Fannin Co. on May 3 and a Bachman’s Sparrow was
singing in Lamar Co. on May 2 (both MW). Two Grasshopper Sparrows were in
Anderson Co. on May 3 (DC, DL). A total of at least 10 Rose-breasted
Grosbeaks were reported, which is more than average. One was at the Mineola
Preserve on May 2 (AR, JMu), 3 were at Camp Tyler on May 3, 2 were near Camp
Tyler on May 4 and 6 (all JDa), 2 were at Lake Tawakoni State Park on May 7
(RK), and 2 were in Cherokee Co. on May 7 (JPu). Lazuli Buntings are rare
spring migrants in northeast Texas, so three reports of this species birds
were notable, with single birds in Hunt Co. on May 3 (JMa), Lake Tawakoni
State Park on May 7 (RK), and Smith Co. on May 2 (LBe). Delta Co. had an
impressive count of 15-20 Bobolinks on May 2 and Fannin Co. hosted 8 birds
on May 3 (both MW). Two Baltimore Orioles were at Camp Tyler on May 3 and
one was there on May 4, and 3 were near Camp Tyler on May 1-3 (all JDa). A
Baltimore Oriole was at the Old Sabine Bottom WMA on May 2 (AR, JMu). Lake
Tawakoni State Park had an amazing 136 Orchard Orioles and 85 Baltimore
Orioles on May 7 (RK).
Counties & Locations:
Anderson County: Gus Engeling WMA
Hunt County: Lake Tawakoni State Park
Smith County: Bellwood Lake, Camp Tyler, Lake Tyler, Old Sabine
Bottom WMA, Tyler, Tyler State Park
Van Zandt County: Canton
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Observers: |
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RBa
Ron Baltzegar EF Elizabeth Farley |
RK Richard Kinney |
JPu Jane Purtle
AR Alice Rhodes
DS Dennis Scott |
Northeast Texas Bird Report, March 2008
by Peter Barnes
Wintering waterbirds are departing in March and passerines, such as some vireos and warblers, are beginning to migrate north or to set up breeding territories. We had a wet early spring, and some productive birding locations, such as Richland Creek and Old Sabine WMAs, were largely under water, limiting bird observation there.
Two Pacific Loons, one in alternate plumage, were at Lake O’ the Pines, Marion Co., on March 14 (TF) and 16 (PB), and a Red-throated Loon was there on March 14 (TF). Twenty Black-bellied Whistling Ducks were in Franklin Co. on March 25 (fide BS), and 9 were in Smith Co. on March 30 (GR). Richland Creek WMA, Freestone Co., hosted 2 Snow Geese, 3 Cinnamon Teal and a Solitary Sandpiper on March 22 (Tyler Audubon Society).
The wintering female Selasphorus (presumably Rufous) Hummingbird at Lake Cherokee remained until April 1 (DO). The remnants of the winter Red-breasted Nuthatch invasion lingered, with single birds still present in Henderson Co. on March 8 (DC, DL), in Tyler throughout the month until March 26 (AR), and at Lake Cherokee through March 30 (DO). The first Scissor-tailed Flycatcher was reported, right on schedule, on March 16 in Rusk Co. (CT), and a Blue-headed Vireo was spotted at Richland Creek WMA, Freestone Co., on March 22 (Tyler Audubon Society).
Most of the typical early-arriving warblers were reported, except for Prothonotary and Hooded Warblers. The first Black-and-White Warbler was spotted on March 9 in Henderson Co. (DC, DL), and the first Yellow-throated Warblers and Northern Parulas were heard at Caddo Lake, Harrison Co., on March 16 (DM, BM). A Louisiana Waterthrush was at Richland Creek WMA, Freestone Co., on March 22 (Tyler Audubon Society), and the first Black-throated Green Warbler was at the UT Health Center at Tyler on March 26 (PB).
A LeConte’s Sparrow was at Richland Creek WMA, Freestone Co., on March 22 (Tyler Audubon Society). Three Rose-breasted Grosbeak were remarkably early on March 16 at the Mineola Preserve (CT, LE, PH, BC). They usually don’t arrive in northeast Texas until mid-April. Pine Siskins visited Jim Day’s feeders in Smith Co. throughout March, with a high count of 18 on March 27, four were present elsewhere in Smith Co. on March 25 (PB), and one was at Lake Cherokee from March 18 through April 1. A Purple Finch was in Smith Co. on March 9 (PB), another was at the Mineola Preserve on March 16 (CT, LE, PH, BC), and up to 6 were at Lake Cherokee from March 11-25 (DO).
Counties & Locations:
Rusk County: Lake
Cherokee
Smith
County: UT Health Center at Tyler
Wood County: Mineola Preserve
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Observers: |
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PB Peter Barnes LE Lisa Evers |
DL Dell Little DM Dorothy Metzler |
DO Donna Orr AR Alice Rhodes GR Gloria Rognlie BS Boyd Sanders CT Candy Troop |
Northeast Texas Bird Report, February 2008
by Peter Barnes, edited by Mike Dillon
February was marked by the unusually early appearance of some herons, swallows and passerines, perhaps related to the mild winter and global warming. The Arctic Loon at Lake Tawakoni, Van Zandt Co., was seen again on Feb 10-19, together with a Pacific Loon, and a Red-throated Loon on Feb 14 and 19 (all MW). Several species of large wading birds that usually arrive in March and April were spotted at Richland Creek WMA, Navarro Co., including single Tricolored Herons on Feb 9 (Tyler Audubon field trip) and 24 (DC, DL), a Little Blue Heron on Feb 9 (Tyler Audubon field trip), 3 Snowy Egrets on Feb 9 (Tyler Audubon field trip) and 2 on Feb 24 (DC, DL), 30 White Ibis on Feb 9 (Tyler Audubon field trip) and 44 White and one White-faced Ibis on Feb 24 (DC, DL). Richland Creek WMA, Navarro Co., also had 7 Cinnamon Teal on Feb 9 (Tyler Audubon field trip), and 21 Greater White-fronted Geese, 1 Cinnamon Teal, 250 Northern Pintails and 15 Redheads on Feb 24 (DC, DL). Eleven Cackling Geese were in Henderson Co. on Feb 23 and a Ross’ Goose was in Navarro Co. on Feb 24 (all DC, DL). Twelve Hooded Mergansers were observed in Rusk Co. on Feb 10 (PH, HK, BC). A Common Moorhen, a rare breeder in northeast Texas, and almost never seen in winter, was observed in Rusk Co. on Feb 10 (PH, HK, BC).
Two Ospreys were over Texas Eastman in Longview on Feb 7 (DB) and one
was at Richland Creek WMA, Freestone Co., on Feb 9 (Tyler Audubon field
trip). A Harlan’s Red-tailed Hawk was at Gus Engling WMA on Feb 16
(DC, DL). A Bald Eagle nest containing a downy youngster was found at
Lake Tawakoni, Hunt Co., on Feb. 25 (MW). A Crested Caracara was in
Henderson Co. on Feb 16 and a Merlin was at Richland Creek WMA on Feb
24 (both DC, DL). Five Soras (4 in Freestone, 1 in Navarro Co.) were
a good number at Richland Creek WMA on Feb 9 (Tyler Audubon field trip).
Forty Long-billed Dowitchers were at Richland Creek WMA, Navarro Co.,
on Feb 9 (Tyler Audubon field trip), and 80 were there on Feb 24 (DC, DL).
Thirteen Greater Yellowlegs were a good number in Rusk Co. on Feb 10
(PH, HK, BC). A Greater Roadrunner was in Cherokee Co. on Feb 28 (JPu).
Cave Swallows continue to expand northward, with two in Henderson Co.
on Feb 23, and one at Richland Creek WMA, Freestone Co., on Feb 24 (both DC,
DL). Other Cave Swallows were suspected of wintering around Lake Tawakoni
this year, so it is not clear if these are wintering birds. The first
Tree Swallows (7) and Cliff Swallows (8) of the spring were
spotted at Richland Creek WMA, Freestone Co., on Feb 24 (both DC, DL). The
February date is unusually early for Cliff Swallows.
Fish Crows continue to expand their range in northeast Texas, and one was observed in Hunt Co. from Feb 21-28, with two more birds in Hunt Co. on Feb 28 (all MW). A Red-breasted Nuthatch was in Henderson Co. on Feb 16 and 23 (DC, DL) and one was in Cherokee Co. until Feb 24 (JPu). Two Bewick’s Wrens were at Gus Engling WMA on Feb 16 (DC, DL). A White-eyed Vireo was very early at Lake Wright Patman, Bowie Co., on Feb 17 (MD), as they are not usually here until early March. A Gray Catbird was banded in Marion Co. on Feb 2 (JI), and a Summer Tanager was an unusual find in Rose Rudman Park in Tyler on Feb 5 (EF).
An early Lark Sparrow was in Anderson Co. on Feb 23 (DC, DL). Two Purple Finches were at Richland Creek WMA, Navarro Co., on Feb 9 (Tyler Audubon field trip), one was in Henderson Co. on Feb 23 (DC, DL), and up to 7 birds visited Jane Purtle’s feeders in Cherokee Co. until Feb 27. A Lesser Goldfinch was photographed visiting a feeder in Hunt Co. on Feb 22 (MW), where it has been present irregularly from mid-January. Five hundred and fifty Rusty Blackbirds were roosting in Hunt Co. on Feb 24 (MW), and 5 Brewer’s Blackbirds were in Anderson Co. on Feb 23 (DC, DL).
Counties & Locations:
Anderson County: Gus Engling WMA
Harrison County: Texas Eastman in Longview
Smith County: Tyler
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Observers: |
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DB
David Brotherton |
JI James Ingold HK Happy King |
MW Matt White |
Northeast Texas Bird Report, January 2008
by Peter Barnes
The Tyler CBC on Jan 5 tallied 106 species, 6 more than the 10-year median, and only two shy of the record of 108. The Tenaha CBC on Jan 1 netted 100 species, close to the 10 year average of 100.5.
The bird of the winter was an immature basic-plumaged Arctic Loon at Lake Tawakoni, Van Zandt Co., on Jan 13 through 21 (MW, DOh, MD). If accepted by the Texas Bird Records Committee, this would represent a first record for the state. Three Eared Grebes were in Trinidad on Jan 26 (Tyler Audubon field trip). Two Neotropic Cormorants (DC, DL, AB, DR) and 6 Greater Scaup were spotted on the Tyler CBC (PB, DB, DS). Three hundred Snow Geese and 1 Ross’ Goose were in Trinidad on Jan 26 (Tyler Audubon field trip). Diving duck numbers were low on the Tyler CBC, with an abysmal tally of only 3 Ruddy Ducks (DC, DL; 10 year median 48), and only 26 Lesser Scaup and 20 Ring-necked Ducks (10 year medians of 59 for both species). In contrast, high counts of 337 Lesser Scaup and 132 Bufflehead were tallied on the Tenaha CBC. Four Redheads were in Titus Co. on Jan 12 (DB, LB), and 3 Red-breasted Mergansers were spotted on the Tenaha CBC (CT, LE, HK, BC). An Osprey was observed on the Tyler CBC (PB, JCa, JHa) and one was at Texas Eastman in Longview on Jan 24 (DB). One hundred and forty-five Red-breasted Mergansers were a good number at Lake Tawakoni, Rains Co., on Jan 12 (DB, LB). A Green Heron was an unusual winter bird in Tyler on Jan 7 (JKa). Three Plegadis ibis were at Lake Tawakoni, Hunt Co., on Jan 12 (MW). An American Woodcock near Camp Tyler was notable for the Tyler CBC (AB, JDa, DR). A Greater Yellowlegs was at Texas Eastman in Longview on Jan 2 (DB), 2 were observed on the Tenaha CBC (DB, WBr) and a Spotted Sandpiper was at Lake Tawakoni, Rains Co., on Jan 15 (MW). A Sora in Tyler was an unexpected addition for the Tyler CBC (DC, DL). A Herring Gull was unusual on the Tenaha CBC (PH, BG), and an adult Little Gull was at Lake Tawakoni, Rains Co., on Jan 15 (MW).
Twenty-one Eastern Screech Owls were a new high on the Tyler CBC (AB, JDa, DR). A Greater Roadrunner was at Lake Tyler on Jan 3 (JoM). Eight Cave Swallows, presumably wintering birds but possibly early migrants, were at Lake Tawakoni, Rains Co., on Jan 17 (MW). Throughout the month, 3 Red-breasted Nuthatches were in Peggy Harding’s yard in Rusk Co. and one was at Jane Purtle’s feeders in Cherokee Co. The Ash-throated Flycatcher, first located in December, was still in Van Zandt Co. on Jan 17 (MW, PB, MD). A Marsh Wren was observed at Lake Bob Sandlin on Jan 12 (DB, LB) and 2 were in Trinidad on Jan 26 (Tyler Audubon field trip). A Bewick’s Wren was notable for Smith Co. on Jan 22 and 25 (JDa), and one was in Henderson Co. on Jan 26 (Tyler Audubon field trip). A Blue-Gray Gnatcatcher was only the second sighting in the past 10 years on the Tyler CBC (TH, AC), and one was observed on the Tenaha CBC (PH, BG). A Gray Catbird was observed in Hunt Co. from late December through Jan 17 (MW), and 2 were tallied on the Tenaha CBC (DW).
A Yellow-throated Warbler in Hopkins Co. on Jan 9-10 (MW) was a first winter record of this species for north-east Texas A Common Yellowthroat was a good find on the Tyler CBC (DC, DL) and another was in Trinidad on Jan 26 (Tyler Audubon field trip). Two LeConte’s Sparrows were spotted on the Tyler CBC (DB, AB, DR, DS). A Lark Sparrow was in Smith Co. on Jan 4 (CB, JPu) and 20 Harris’ Sparrows were in Henderson Co. on Jan 26 (Tyler Audubon field trip). The Tyler CBC tallied 5 Purple Finches and 5 Pine Siskins, both of which were 10-year highs. Other Purple Finch reports were of 1-2 near Camp Tyler until Jan 3 (JDa), 1-2 in Rusk Co. on Jan 18-19 (PH), 11 in Henderson Co. on Jan 6 (DC, DL), 15 in Morris Co. on Jan 16 (DB, LB), and three pairs visiting Jane Purtle’s feeders in Cherokee Co. throughout the month. Two hundred American Goldfinches were an impressive concentration in Rusk Co. on Jan 18 and 10 (PH). A Western Meadowlark was a new bird for the Tenaha CBC (DW). Six Brewer’s Blackbirds near Camp Tyler on Jan 12 were the first reported in Smith Co. in several years (JDa). Only 75 Common Grackles (10 year median 1449) and 38 Brown-headed Cowbirds (10 year median 146) were observed on the Tyler CBC, and only 57 Common Grackles were spotted on the Tenaha CBC (10 year median 1617). The only reports of Rusty Blackbirds were of two at Lake Tyler on the Tyler CBC (PB, JHa, JCa) and 2 in Henderson Co. on Jan 26 (Tyler Audubon field trip).
Counties & Locations:
Harrison County: Texas Eastman in Longview
Henderson County: Trinidad
Smith County: Camp Tyler, Lake Tyler, Tyler
Titus County: Lake Bob Sandlin
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Observers: |
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PB Peter Barnes CB Cheryle Beck DB
David Brotherton AB Alan Byboth JCa Jamie Cantrell BC Barbara Cavin DC D. D. Currie |
MD Mike Dillon
LE Lisa Evers JHa JB Hanlon PH Peggy Harding TH Tim Hunkapiler JKa Jerry Kassaw
HK Happy King |
DR David Ringer
DW David Weaver |
Northeast Texas Bird Report, December 2007
by Peter Barnes, edited by Mike Dillon
One hundred and six species were observed on the Caddo Lake Winter Bird Count on Dec 1, close to the average of 107 species. The Caddo count circle includes areas in Louisiana, and birds noted on this count were observed in Texas unless otherwise specified. One hundred and ten species were tallied by the Longview Christmas Bird Count (CBC) on Dec 15, and the Lake O’ the Pines CBC on Dec 29 netted 108 species. These totals were two and three less than their respective 10-year averages. The Lake Tawakoni CBC on Dec 29 yielded 138 species.
A Red-throated Loon was at Lake Tawakoni, Hunt Co., on Dec 23 (MW), and 2 Pacific Loons were observed on the Lake Tawakoni CBC, one at Holiday Marina and the other at Lake Tawakoni State Park. More reports of Neotropic Cormorants were received than usual. Eighteen were at Richland Creek WMA, Navarro Co., on Dec 23 (DC, DL), two were observed at Lake Cherokee on Dec 15 (PB, CB), 5 were at Big Creek Lake on Dec 27 (MW), and 17 were spotted on the Lake Tawakoni CBC. American White Pelicans were at Lake Tyler for the second half of December, with a high count of 12 birds on Dec 18 (JDa). A Black-crowned Night Heron was seen in Rains Co. on the Lake Tawakoni CBC. A Snowy Egret, rare in winter, was at Texas Eastman in Longview on Dec 15 (DB, SB), and a Cattle Egret and a remarkably high number of 32 White-faced Ibis were also unusual in Hunt Co. on Dec 23 (MW). Three Greater White-fronted Geese (BC, PH, HK) and 110 Snow Geese (70 in Texas) were spotted on the Caddo Lake count, and a Northern Pintail (DM, TW), 8 Cackling Geese (all in Louisiana) and an American Bittern (DR, JP) were all new species for the Caddo Lake count. A Cackling Goose was at Greenville City Lakes on Dec 21 (MW).
Six Black-bellied Whistling Ducks were on Lake Palestine, Smith Co. on Dec 27 (JM), and one was at Cooper Lake on Dec 6 (MW). Gadwalls were missed and only single Lesser Scaup and Ruddy Duck (both in Louisiana) were noted on the Caddo Lake count. In contrast, 500 Lesser Scaup and 25 Greater Scaup were at Big Creek Lake on Dec 27 (MW). Two male Common Mergansers were an outstanding rarity at Lake Tawakoni, Hunt Co., on Dec 27 (MW). The Longview CBC netted a Blue-winged Teal in Rusk Co. (PB, CB), a Greater Scaup at Texas Eastman in Longview (DB, SB), 16 Redheads and a 10-year-high count of 120 Buffleheads. The Lake O’ the Pines CBC produced a high count of 384 Ruddy Ducks and 338 Redheads. A Blue-winged Teal was in Smith Co. on Dec 25 (JC), and a Sora was at Big Creek Lake on Dec 17 (MW).
Two Ospreys (1 in Texas) were spotted on the Caddo Lake count, two were observed on the Lake O’ the Pines CBC (ME, HK, LE, WB), and single birds were at Texas Eastman in Longview on Dec 13 and 15 (DB), Lake Tyler on Dec 22 (PB) and Chapel Hill on Dec 24 (PB, DS). Two Bald Eagles were observed on the Longview CBC (DB, SB, BM), and a Northern Harrier was a good bird on the Lake O’ the Pines CBC (DB, LB). The Merlin first found in November was seen again at the Lake Tyler concession area on Dec 13 (JDa), and another Merlin (BC, PH, HK) was spotted on the Caddo Lake count. Eleven Crested Caracaras were a high total for the Lake Tawakoni CBC. The most remarkable raptor sighting this winter was a Prairie Falcon, a new species on the Caddo Lake count (BC, PH, HK) and perhaps the first record for the pineywoods.
Wilson’s Snipe and American Woodcock were notably absent on the Lake O’ the Pines and Caddo Lake counts, respectively, but one American Woodcock was spotted in Smith Co. on Dec 24 (PB). A Semipalmated Plover, very rare in winter, was observed at Lake Tyler on Dec 25 (JC). Spotted Sandpipers are regular winter visitors in our southern counties, but one at Cooper Lake on Dec 20 (MW) and 2 on the Lake O’ the Pines CBC (CB, DLu) were notable. A second year California Gull, unexpectedly of the darker-backed californicus subspecies, rather than the expected albertaensis, was photographed at Lake Bob Sandlin on Dec 11 (MW). The Caddo Lake count had an all-time high 443 Ring-billed Gulls (231 in Louisiana). A Black-headed Gull was at Big Creek Lake on Dec 17 and the same bird was at Cooper Lake on Dec 27 (both MW). A Little Gull was at Lake Tawakoni, Hunt Co., on Dec 13 and 29 (MW), and two late Franklin’s Gulls were at Greenville City Lakes on Dec 21 (MW).
One hundred Eastern Screech Owls were a remarkable tally on the Lake O’ the Pines CBC (DB, LB, SB, DW). Two Greater Roadrunners were the first seen on the Lake O’ the Pines CBC in the past 10 years (LE, HK, WB), and one was in Hunt Co. on Dec 27 (TBr). A female Selasphorus Hummingbird visited a feeder at Lake Cherokee in mid-December at least till Dec 15 (DO). Hummingbirds of the Selasphorus genus include Rufous and Allen’s Hummingbirds, and females are extremely difficult to separate in the field. Rufous Hummingbird would be the expected species in north-east Texas. Five Red-headed Woodpeckers were an unusual concentration at Lake Tyler on Dec 18 (JDa), and the Lake O’ the Pines count tallied a 10-year high of 17 birds. Three Cave Swallows were an interesting find at Lake Bonham in Fannin Co. on Dec 14 (MW). This species has been expanding into north-east Texas in the spring for several years, but this represents the first winter record. The Red-breasted Nuthatch invasion continued, with 4 birds tallied on the Longview CBC, 7 on the Lake O’ the Pines CBC (DW, DB, LB), 6 on the Lake Tawakoni CBC, one in Tyler on Dec 19 (TP), one in Henderson Co. on Dec 23 (DC, DL) and two at Jane Purtle’s feeders in Cherokee Co. throughout the month. A Fish Crow was at Lake Bob Sandlin on Dec 11 (MW). Two Marsh Wrens were notable on the Lake O’ the Pines CBC (PH, CT) and A Bewick’s Wren was observed on the Longview CBC (DW). Two Rock Wrens were observed at Lake Tawakoni, Van Zandt Co., on Dec 28 and 31 (MW). Matt observed a remarkable seven wren species on Dec 28, perhaps a first for north-east Texas. A late Scissor-tailed Flycatcher was at Texas Eastman in Longview on Dec 3 (DB), and a Vermilion Flycatcher was a nice find on the Caddo Lake count (BC, PH, HK). Perhaps the most remarkable sighting this month was of an Ash-throated Flycatcher, first found on the Lake Tawakoni CBC in Van Zandt Co. on Dec 29, then photographed on Dec 30 and 31 (MW). This bird is rare anywhere in Texas in winter, and the only prior record of this species in the NETFO database is from the spring of 1996 at Caddo Lake.
A Blue-Gray Gnatcatcher was spotted on the Caddo Lake count (BC, PH, HK), and two were at Lake Tawakoni, Rains Co., on Dec 13 (MW). Five Blue-headed Vireos were tallied on the Lake Tawakoni CBC. The Caddo Lake count recorded an all-time high 61 American Pipits (60 in Louisiana). Only one Loggerhead Shrike was found on the Caddo Lake count. The Longview CBC had 10-year-high counts of 405 Eastern Bluebirds and 1,791 Cedar Waxwings. A Gray Catbird was notable for Lake Tawakoni, Hunt Co., on Dec 23 (MW) and one was tallied on the Lake O’ the Pines CBC (DW).
Pine Warblers are common in the pineywoods, but not in the Blackland Prairie, so one at Big Creek Lake on Dec 17 (MW) was notable. Three Common Yellowthroats (2 in Louisiana) were observed on the Caddo Lake count. Only one LeConte’s Sparrow (Louisiana) was found on the Caddo Lake count, they were missed on the Lake O’ the Pines CBC, and numbers were low on the Lake Tawakoni CBC. Five Harris’ Sparrows were a good number for Smith Co. on Dec 22 and 29 (PB, Tyler Audubon field trip). White-crowned Sparrows have been more common in Smith Co. than usual, with up to 25 birds on Dec 22 and 29 (PB, Tyler Audubon field trip). The Lake Tawakoni CBC netted 3 Grasshopper Sparrows, the first recorded in 10 years, as well as 10 year highs of 37 Purple Finches and 45 Pine Siskins. Winter finches were otherwise sparse, with 1-2 Purple Finches near Camp Tyler for most of the month (JDa), two in Canton on Dec 13 (DOh), 5 in Daingerfield on Dec 16 (DB), one in Hunt Co. on Dec 26 (MW), and three on the Lake O’ the Pines CBC (DW, DB, LB). Two Pine Siskins were seen on the Caddo Lake count, 3 were in Canton from Nov 26 through Dec 2, and 1 was there on Dec 19 (all DOh), and none were observed on the Lake O’ the Pines CBC, where they are usually regular. Very few Brown-headed Cowbirds (2, Louisiana), House Finches (2, Louisiana) and House Sparrows (2, Louisiana) were observed on the Caddo Lake count. A late Lark Sparrow was at Cooper Lake on Dec 1 (MW). Thirty Eastern Meadowlarks were a 10-year high for the Lake O’ the Pines CBC. The only report of Rusty Blackbirds was of 17 around Lake Tyler on Dec 29 (Tyler Audubon field trip).
Counties & Locations:
Delta County: Big Creek Lake, Cooper Lake
Gregg County: Lake Cherokee
Harrison County: Texas Eastman in Longview
Hunt County: Greenville City Lakes, Lake Tawakoni State Park
Smith County: Camp Tyler, Chapel Hill, Lake Tyler
Titus County: Lake Bob Sandlin
Van Zandt County: Canton, Holiday Marina
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Observers: |
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PB Peter Barnes WB
Wanda Bosmans JDa Jim Day |
HK Happy King |
TW Tom Walker |
Northeast Texas Bird Report, November 2007
by Peter Barnes
It was a slow month with few reports of notable concentrations of winter visitors, but continuing reports of boreal forest seedeaters such as Red-breasted Nuthatches and Purple Finch.
Two Snow Geese were at Lake Tawakoni State Park on Nov 2 (RK). Sixty Snow Geese were spotted in Henderson Co. on Nov 2 and Nov 23, and 30 were in Freestone Co. on Nov 24 (all DC, DL). One hundred and twenty five American White Pelicans were an impressive sight at Texas Eastman in Longview on Nov 5 (DB). Twenty-eight Hooded Mergansers and 90 Buffleheads were good numbers at Texas Eastman in Longview on Nov 20 (DB, ME), and 6 Red-breasted Mergansers were notable for Smith Co. on Nov 25 (PB). Five Northern Harriers were at the Sabine Mining Company land on Nov 28 (ER), a Merlin was a good find at the Lake Tyler concession area on Nov 10 (Tyler Audubon field trip), and a Crested Caracara was in Anderson Co. on Nov 16 (DC, DL). Nineteen American Avocets were a good number at Texas Eastman in Longview on Nov 2 (DB). A first-year Sabine’s Gull was at Lake Tawakoni, Hunt Co., on Nov 2 and 3 (MW), and a Herring Gull was in Anderson Co. on Nov 23 (DC, DL). Two Caspian Terns were at Lake Tawakoni, Rains Co., on Nov 3 (RK).
Two Short-eared Owls were spotted on Nov 26 and one was present on Nov 28 at the Sabine Mining Company land (ER). This is the first time that they have been seen here since the winter of 2005-6. The Red-breasted Nuthatch invasion continues, with 3-4 birds visiting feeders in Rusk Co. throughout the month (PH), 2 at feeders in Tyler 5-7 times (AR) and 2 more at a Cherokee Co. feeder all month (JPu). Single birds were also seen in Henderson Co. on Nov 16 (DC, DL), Morris Co. on Nov 18 (DB) and Rusk Co. from Nov 21 to 28 (DO). Inca Doves were reported in Longview this month (CT). A remarkably late Eastern Kingbird was observed on Nov 20 at Texas Eastman in Longview (DB, ME). This species is usually gone by the end of September. Two Scissor-tailed Flycatchers were still in Smith Co. on Nov 10 (Tyler Audubon field trip). A late Nashville Warbler was at Lake Tawakoni State Park on Nov 3 (RK), and a Palm Warbler was a great find there on Nov 10 (RK). A Purple Finch was in Henderson Co. on Nov 23 (DC, DL) and one was in Cherokee Co. on Nov 23 and 25 (JPu). 300+ Brewer’s Blackbirds were an impressive number in Anderson Co. on Nov 16 (DC, DL).
Counties & Locations:
Harrison County: Sabine Mining Company land, Texas Eastman in Longview
Hunt County: Lake Tawakoni State Park
Smith County: Tyler, Lake Tyler
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Observers: |
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PB Peter Barnes DB
David Brotherton
ME Mark Edmund |
RK Richard Kinney |
MW Matt White |
Northeast Texas Bird Report, October 2007
by Peter Barnes with thanks to Mike Dillon for his editing
October is usually a slow month, as fall migrants have largely departed, and most winter residents have not yet arrived. The mild weather this year made for fewer migrants than usual and delayed the arrival of wintering waterfowl and other birds.
An Anhinga was spotted in Henderson Co. on Oct 5 (DC, DL). Forty-six American White Pelicans were the highest total reported this fall on Oct 18 at Texas Eastman in Longview (DB). Perhaps because of the mild warm weather, 2 Roseate Spoonbills, a Wood Stork, and 3 Tricolored Herons were still at Richland Creek WMA, Freestone Co., on Oct 13 (Tyler Audubon field trip). Six Black-bellied Whistling Ducks were also there that day (Tyler Audubon field trip). Twelve Greater White-fronted Geese were over Lake Tawakoni, Rains Co., on Oct 3 (RK). The first 15 Ruddy Ducks were reported from Texas Eastman in Longview on Oct 25 (DB). A Merlin and the first Northern Harrier of the fall were at Richland Creek WMA, Navarro Co., on Oct 13 (Tyler Audubon field trip). Twelve Swainson’s Hawks and an impressive 232 Broad-winged Hawks were observed over Lake Tawakoni, Rains Co., on Oct 5 (RK), and a Crested Caracara was there on Oct 4 (RK). An Osprey was at Texas Eastman in Longview on Oct 25 (DB).
A Sora was at Grand Saline salt marsh on Oct 10 (RK). Lake Tawakoni, Rains Co., hosted 12 Long-billed Dowitchers and 4 Stilt Sandpipers on Oct 3, 22 Long-billed Dowitchers and a Stilt Sandpiper on Oct 5, and a Black-bellied Plover, 65 American Avocets and 100 Long-billed Dowitchers on Oct 10 (all RK). Three American Avocets were at Texas Eastman in Longview on Oct 18 (DB). Single Great Horned Owls were heard in Morris Co. on Oct 25 (DB, LB) and in Smith Co. on Oct 30 (PB). Two Greater Roadrunners were in Titus Co. on Oct 11 (LB). The last Ruby-throated Hummingbirds were reported from Morris Co. on Oct 9 (LB). A Red-headed Woodpecker, uncommon in the western edge of our region, was at Lake Tawakoni State Park on Oct 30 (RK). A Scissor-tailed Flycatcher was still present at the Mineola Preserve on Oct 27 (PB).
The birding event of the fall was the invasion of Red-breasted Nuthatches in many parts of Texas, and 15 birds were reported this month, two in Cherokee Co. throughout the month (JPu), two in Tyler on Oct 9 (TP), one at Lake Tawakoni State Park on Oct 9, two in Van Zandt Co. on Oct 10 (both RK), one at Lake O’ the Pines, Marion Co., on Oct 13 (NETFO field trip), 2 at Lake Tawakoni, Hunt Co., on Oct 21 (RK, RBa), 2 in Smith Co. on Oct 24 (AR), one in Van Zandt Co. on Oct 30, and two at Lake Tawakoni, Van Zandt Co., on Oct 31 (both RK). This is the highest monthly total for the fall since 27 birds were tallied by NETFO observers in September 1995.
10+ Brown Creepers were notable in Hunt Co. on Oct 28 (TBr). Single Sprague’s Pipits were over Lake Tawakoni State Park and West Tawakoni on Oct 30 (RK). A Warbling Vireo was at Lake Tawakoni State Park on Oct 3 (RK), and a late White-eyed Vireo was at Lake Tawakoni, Van Zandt Co., on Oct 31 (RK). The first Hermit Thrush was spotted at Texas Eastman in Longview on Oct 25 (DB). A Canada Warbler, rare in the fall, was spotted at Lake Tawakoni, Rains Co., on Oct 3 (RK). A Clay-colored Sparrow was seen in Tyler on Oct 9 (TP). Ten Pine Siskins were at Lake Tawakoni State Park on Oct 20 (RK), perhaps an indicator that there will be an irruption of this species this winter. A late Orchard Oriole was near Camp Tyler on Oct 2 (JDa), and a Baltimore Oriole was at Lake Tawakoni State Park on Oct 3 (RK).
Counties & Locations:
Harrison County: Texas Eastman in Longview
Hunt County: Lake Tawakoni State Park, West Tawakoni
Smith County: Tyler
Van Zandt County: Grand Saline salt marsh
Wood County: Mineola Preserve
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Observers: |
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RBa Ron Baltzegar PB Peter Barnes TBr Tyson Brennan DB David Brotherton |
DC D. D. Currie JDa Jim Day RK Richard Kinney |
AR Alice Rhodes |
Northeast Texas Bird Report, September 2007
by Peter Barnes and Matt White with thanks to Mike Dillon for his editing
The absence of rain or cold fronts this month resulted in few sightings of fall migrant passerines, and the high water levels at local lakes made shorebirds hard to come by. Two Wood Storks were seen over Lake Tawakoni, Rains Co., on Sept 14, one was there on Sept 19, and 20 White-faced Ibis, unusually scarce this year, were there on Sept 29 (all RK). Twenty-five Black-bellied Whistling Ducks were spotted over Hunt Co. on Sept 21 (MW), and Lake Tawakoni, Rains Co., hosted 2 Cinnamon Teal, uncommon in the fall, on Sept 29, and 6 early Northern Pintails and 2 Northern Shovelers on Sept 14 (all RK).
An Osprey was at Texas Eastman in Longview on Sept 11 and 27 (DB), and a Bald Eagle was there on Sept 20 (CT). The NETFO hawkwatch at Daingerfield on Sept 22 netted 85 Broadwinged Hawks. A Common Moorhen on the Sabine River on Sept 3 (PB) was the first one seen in Smith Co. in more than 10 years. The few shorebird reports were mostly from Lake Tawakoni, Rains Co., where the first Wilson’s Snipe of the fall was seen on Sept 19, and 3 Long-billed Dowitchers and a Black-bellied Plover were observed on Sept 29 (all RK). A Wilson’s Phalarope was at Texas Eastman in Longview on Sept 7 (ME). Fall is the time to look for jaegers on our large lakes and a probable juvenile Parasitic Jaeger was at Lake Tawakoni State Park on Sept 15 (GC, DC, DL). A Sabine’s Gull was also there that day (RR). Seventy-five Black Terns and 2 Caspian Terns were at Lake Tawakoni, Rains Co., on Sept 9, and 3 Black Terns were at the Holiday Marina on Sept 19 (all RK). Eight Black Terns were at Texas Eastman in Longview on Sept 6 and 6 were there on Sept 7 (ME).
More than 40 Ruby-throated Hummingbirds visited Peggy Harding’s feeders in Rusk Co. in the first half of September, with 8 still present at the end of the month. An Inca Dove was in Cherokee Co. on Sept 22 (JPu). Six Bank Swallows were at Lake Tawakoni, Rains Co., on Sept 29 (RK). Red-breasted Nuthatches look set for an invasion year, as they have been seen in several parts of Texas, as well as in our region, with one bird at Lake Tawakoni, Rains Co., on Sept 19 (RK), one in Cherokee Co. on Sept 22 (JPu), and another in Rusk Co. on Sept 29 (PH). Gray Catbirds were more evident than usual, with one at the Mineola Preserve on Sept 23 (PB), one in Rusk Co. on Sept 29 (PH) and another at Camp Tyler the same day (Tyler Audubon field trip). A Blue-headed Vireo was spotted in Cherokee Co. on Sept 22 (JPu) and a Warbling Vireo was at Camp Tyler on Sept 29 (Tyler Audubon field trip). The first Ruby-crowned Kinglet was reported in Henderson Co. on Sept 28 (DC, DL). A Swainson’s Warbler was still singing at the Mineola Preserve on Sept 3 (PB), a Blackburnian Warbler was at Lake Tawakoni State Park on Sept 9 (RK), a Yellow-throated Warbler was in Smith Co. on Sept 26 (JDa), and 2 Wilson’s Warblers were at Camp Tyler on Sept 29 (Tyler Audubon field trip). Single Yellow-breasted Chats were at Camp Tyler (Tyler Audubon field trip) and in Rusk Co. (PH) on Sept 29.
An early American Goldfinch was over UT Tyler on Sept 2 (PB) and one was near Camp Tyler on Sept 20 (JDa). Three Lark Sparrows were observed in Cherokee Co. on Sept 21 (JPu) and 2 were at the Mineola Preserve on Sept 22 (PB, JCo, EF). Dickcissels are common fall migrants overhead, but they are rarely seen on the ground, so a cooperative perched bird at Camp Tyler on Sept 29 (Tyler Audubon field trip) was notable. Two Baltimore Orioles were at Camp Tyler on Sept 15 (Tyler Audubon field trip).
Counties & Locations:
Harrison County: Texas Eastman in Longview
Hunt County: Lake Tawakoni State Park
Morris County: Daingerfield
Smith County: Camp Tyler, UT Tyler
Van Zandt County: Holiday Marina
Wood County: Mineola Preserve
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Observers: |
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PB Peter Barnes GC Greg Cook
DB David Brotherton |
ME Mark Edmund
PH Peggy Harding |
RR Ross Rassmusen CT Candra Troop MW Matt White |
Northeast Texas Bird Report, August 2007 by Peter Barnes and Matt White
The very wet June and July raised local lake levels, markedly reducing habitat for shorebirds, so few were reported in August. One Anhinga was spotted in Anderson Co. on Aug 11 (DC, DL) and two were at Richland Creek WMA, Freestone Co., on Aug 26 (PB, DC, DL). A Black-bellied Whistling Duck was only the second recorded at Richland Creek WMA, Freestone Co., on Aug 26 (PB, DC, DL). The largest concentrations of Wood Storks were reported from Richland Creek WMA, Navarro Co., which held 100 birds on Aug 11 (DC, DL) and 50 on Aug 26 (PB, DC, DL). Wood Storks were also present at Lake Tawakoni, in Van Zandt (10 birds) and Rains (7 birds) Cos. on Aug 12 (RBa), with 8 birds in Hunt Co. and 2 in Rains Co. on Aug 28 (RK). Richland Creek WMA, Navarro Co., hosted 14 Roseate Spoonbills, a Tricolored Heron and 150 Great Egrets on Aug 11 (DC, DL), 15 Roseate Spoonbills, single Least Bitterns and Tricolored Herons, 300 Great Egrets and 100 Snowy Egrets on Aug 26 (PB, DC, DL). A Tricolored Heron was in the Freestone Co. section of Richland Creek WMA on Aug 11 (DC, DL). A Roseate Spoonbill was notable in Gregg Co. on Aug 21 (DB). Plegadis ibis were very scarce this spring and summer, the only report being a White-faced Ibis at Richland Creek WMA, Navarro Co., on Aug 26 (PB, DC, DL).
An adult Bald Eagle was at Texas Eastman in Longview on Aug 6 (DB), and an Osprey was at Richland Creek WMA, Navarro Co., on Aug 11 (DC, DL). Up to 5 Mississippi Kites were observed in Rusk Co. from mid-July through Aug 25 (PH). Two Common Moorhens were in Anderson Co. on Aug 11 (DC, DL). The few shorebird reports came primarily from Richland Creek WMA, which held a Willet and a Black-bellied Plover (both in Navarro Co.) on Aug 11 (DC, DL), and 7 Solitary Sandpipers (6 in Freestone Co., 1 in Navarro Co.) on Aug 26 (PB, DC, DL). Two Willets flew over Cedar Creek Lake, Navarro Co., on Aug 26 (DC, DL), and an American Avocet and an impressive 11 Spotted Sandpipers were at Texas Eastman in Longview on Aug 30 (DB, ME). Thirty-two Black Terns were at Lake Bob Sandlin on Aug 18 (DB, LB), and 2 Least Terns were at the Holiday Marina on Aug 31 (RK).
A Great Horned Owl was heard throughout the month in Hunt Co. (TBr). A remarkable 9 Greater Roadrunners, including a group of 4 birds, were spotted in Hunt Co. on Aug 28 (MW). A Greater Roadrunner was also seen in Cherokee Co. throughout the month (JPu). An Olive-sided Flycatcher was at Richland Creek WMA, Freestone Co., on Aug 26 (PB, DC, DL), and one was at Lake Tawakoni State Park with an Alder Flycatcher on Aug 28 (RK). A Swainson’s Warbler was still singing at Richland Creek WMA, Freestone Co., on Aug 26 (PB, DC, DL). Eight Baltimore Orioles were at Lake Tawakoni State Park on Aug 28 (RK).
Counties & Locations:
Harrison County: Texas Eastman in Longview
Hunt County: Lake Tawakoni State Park
Titus County: Lake Bob Sandlin
Van Zandt County: Holiday Marina
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Observers: |
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PB Peter Barnes
DB David Brotherton |
TBr Tyson Brennan
DC D. D. Currie |
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Northeast Texas Bird Report, June-July 2007 by Peter Barnes and Matt White
Twenty-four American White Pelicans, unusual in the summer, were spotted at Lake Bob Sandlin on June 24 (LA). A Black-bellied Whistling Duck was observed in Morris Co. on July 2 (LB), two were at Lake Fork, Wood Co., on July 25 (DB, SB), and two were in Henderson Co. on July 15 (DC, DL). An Osprey, very unusual here in the summer, was at Texas Eastman in Longview on 4 occasions from June 12 through July 26 (DB, ME). They are apparently nesting at Lake Millwood in southwestern Arkansas not too far from here (fide MD). Single Bald Eagles were at Texas Eastman in Longview on June 28 (DB) and in Henderson Co. on July 15 (DC, DL). A Mississippi Kite, a localized breeding bird in north-east Texas, was observed in Morris Co. on June 24 (DB), and others have been over Marshall all summer (MD). A Crested Caracara was in Henderson Co. on July 15 (DC, DL). An early fall migrant Spotted Sandpiper was at Texas Eastman in Longview on July 17 (DB, ME). A Northern Bobwhite was heard in David Brotherton’s yard in Morris Co. on June 23 and July 2.
A Greater Roadrunner was observed in Smith Co. on July 20 (JPu). Inca Doves nested in Truman Powell’s yard in Tyler, and a fledgling was observed on June 25 (TP). Four adult and three fledged Tree Swallows were at their usual breeding location at Texas Eastman in Longview on June 19 (DB, ME), and one was at Lake Fork, Wood Co., on July 25 (DB, SB). Ten singing Wood Thrushes were heard in Daingerfield State Park on July 2 (DB, LB). Four Prairie Warblers and a Swainson’s Warbler were singing in south-east Anderson Co. on June 16 (DC, DL), and a Prairie Warbler was at Texas Eastman in Longview on June 19 (DB, ME). A Swainson’s Warbler was still singing in southern Smith Co. on June 30 (PB). Fledged Lark Sparrows were observed in Cherokee Co. in July (JPu).
Counties & Locations:
Harrison County: Marshall, Texas Eastman in Longview
Smith County: Tyler
Titus County: Lake Bob
Sandlin
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Observers: |
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LA Linda Ainsworth
PB Peter Barnes |
SB Sarah Brotherton |
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Northeast Texas Bird Report, May 2007 by Peter Barnes and Matt White
It was a fairly lackluster spring, with fewer sightings than usual of most shorebird and passerine migrants, with most reports coming from Lake Tawakoni. Lingering ducks included a late Red-breasted Merganser at Lake Tawakoni, Van Zandt Co., on May 13 (RBa), and 2 Gadwall and a Lesser Scaup at Richland Creek WMA on May 31 (HH, CS). Eight Fulvous Whistling Ducks were a great find at Richland Creek WMA, Freestone Co., on May 19 (DC, DL). Hooded Mergansers are rare breeders in north-east Texas, and 3 young birds were at Texas Eastman in Longview on May 31 (DB, ME). A Least Bittern was notable at Lake Tawakoni, Rains Co., on May 28 (MW). 150 White Ibis were a good concentration at Richland Creek WMA, Freestone Co., on May 19, and 2 Bald Eagles were there that day (both DC, DL). Forty-three Mississippi Kites were an impressive number at Lake Tawakoni, Van Zandt Co., on May 4 (RK), and one was in Bowie Co. on May 12 (DB). A Peregrine Falcon flew over Camp Tyler on May 3 (PB), and a Swallow-tailed Kite was seen in Anderson Co. on May 25 (HH, CS).
Lake Tawakoni, Rains Co., held an impressive array of shorebirds, including 2 Ruddy Turnstones, 2 Black-bellied Plovers, 5 Hudsonian Godwits, 300 White-rumped Sandpipers, 1 Buff-breasted Sandpiper and 10 Wilson’s Phalaropes on May 9 (RK), a Hudsonian Godwit and 3 Marbled Godwits on May 12 (RK), a Hudsonian Godwit on May 13 (GC), 12 Baird’s Sandpipers on May 14 (RK), and 300+ White-rumped Sandpipers, 44 Dunlin, 14 Buff-breasted Sandpipers and 4 Wilson’s Phalaropes on May 16 (RK). Snowy Plovers are suspected of nesting at Lake Tawakoni, Rains Co., and 2-3 birds were reported there from May 9-16, and 1 was there on May 31 (RK). Three Baird’s Sandpipers were at Texas Eastman in Tyler on May 7 (PB). Two Least Terns were at Lake Tawakoni, Rains Co., on May 9 (RK), 4 were present on May 16 (RK), and a Caspian Tern was there on May 12 (RK). Sixty-five Black Terns were the first spotted this summer at Lake Tawakoni State Park on May 31 (RK).
The Rufous Hummingbird that spent much of the winter in Peggy Harding’s yard in Rusk Co. was last seen on April 16. An Inca Dove was observed in Smith Co. on May 30 (JDa), and a Cave Swallow was in Smith Co. on May 5 (PB). A remarkable 24 Least Flycatchers were at Lake Tawakoni State Park on May 4 (RK), an Alder Flycatcher was there on May 4, 5 and 16 (RK), 4 were there on May 19 (GC, BS) and another was at Richland Creek WMA on May 19 (DC, DL). A Yellow-bellied Flycatcher was at Lake Tawakoni State Park on May 14 (RK) and 19 (GC, BS), and an Olive-sided Flycatcher was there on May 16 (RK).
Single Philadelphia Vireos were in Smith Co. on May 3 and 5 (PB) and in Van Zandt Co. on May 4 (RK), 2 were in Smith Co. on May 10 (PB), and 1 was at Lake Tawakoni State Park on May 12 (RBa) and 19 (GC, BS). A Bell’s Vireo was at Lake Tawakoni State Park on May 4 (RK). More Cedar Waxwings were reported this May than usual, with 30 birds in Longview on May 21 (CT, LE), 15 at Bellwood Lake on May 22 (PB), 16 at UT Tyler on May 23 (RG), and 20 at Lake Tawakoni State Park on May 31 (RK). A Veery, a Gray-cheeked Thrush and 18 Swainson’s Thrushes were at Lake Tawakoni State Park on May 4 (RK), and a late Swainson’s Thrush was still in Henderson Co. on May 20 (DC, DL).
A Swainson’s Warbler was singing in Smith Co. on May 1 (PB) and 5 (Tyler Audubon field trip). Lake Tawakoni State Park was the site of most migrant warbler sightings, the most notable being single Golden-winged Warblers on May 4 (RK) and May 19 (GC, BS), single Bay-breasted Warblers on May 3 (RK) and 19 (GC, BS), single Blackburnian Warblers on May 4 and 15 (both RK), and 2 Blackburnian Warblers on May 19 (GC, BS). A Golden-winged Warbler was a great find at Texas Eastman in Longview on May 2 (DB, ME), a Bay-breasted Warbler was at Bellwood Lake on May 11 (PB), 1 Blackburnian Warbler at Bellwood Lake on May 9 (PB, RG), and 3 Blackburnian Warblers in Smith Co. on May 13 (JDa). Of the more common migrant warblers, single Chestnut-sided Warblers were at Lake Tawakoni State Park on May 3 (RK), Bellwood Lake on May 4 (PB), and 4 were at Lake Tawakoni State Park on May 19 (GC, BS). Two Magnolia Warblers were at Lake Tawakoni State Park on May 3 (RK), one was in Smith Co. from May 5-9 (PB), one was at Bellwood Lake on May 9 (RG, PB), 2 were in Van Zandt Co. on May 5 (RK), and 5 were at Lake Tawakoni State Park on May 19 (GC, BS).. Thirty-six Tennessee and 18 Yellow Warblers were good concentrations at Lake Tawakoni State Park on May 4 (RK). Single Mourning Warblers were at Lake Tawakoni State Park on May 4 (RK), Lake Tawakoni, Van Zandt Co., on May 4 (RK), 13 (RBa), 14 (RK) and 19 (GC, BS). Wilson’s Warblers are uncommon in the eastern part of our region, and single birds were at Bellwood Lake on May 9 (PB, RG) and in Rusk Co. on May 14 (PH).
Three Clay-colored Sparrows were at Lake Tawakoni State Park on May 4 (RK). Three Rose-breasted Grosbeaks were at Lake Tawakoni State Park on May 3 (RK), two were there on May 14 (RK), one was there on May 16 (RK) and one was in Smith Co. on May 2 (TT). A Nelson’s Sharp-tailed Sparrow, rare here in the spring, was at Lake Tawakoni, Rains Co., on May 28 (MW). A total of 8 Baltimore Orioles were observed in Smith Co. from May 1-9 (PB, RG, Tyler Audubon field trip) and a remarkable 36 were at Lake Tawakoni State Park on May 3 (RK). 100+ Orchard Orioles were at Lake Tawakoni State Park on May 14 (RK). Six Yellow-headed Blackbirds were at Lake Tawakoni, Rains Co., on May 14 and 3 were there on May 16 (RK). Increasing numbers of Great-tailed Grackles have been noted in Longview, and several fledglings and at least 10 nests were located there on May 24 (DM, BM). This is only the second location where breeding has been documented in Gregg Co., the other being the airport. A Pine Siskin lingered in Morris Co. until May 27 (DB, LB).
Locations:
Gregg County: Longview
Harrison County: Texas Eastman in Longview
Hunt County: Lake Tawakoni State Park
Smith County: Bellwood
Lake, UT Tyler
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Observers: |
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RBa Ron Baltzegar
PB Peter Barnes |
ME Mark Edmund PH Peggy Harding HH Hayden Haucke RK Richard Kinney DL Dell Little |
BM Bob Metzler DM Dorothy Metzler CS Cliff Shackelford BS Bob Stone CT Candy Troop TT Tracey Tullis
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Northeast Texas Bird Report, April 2007 by Peter Barnes and Matt White
Loons and other waterbirds lingered a little later than usual and shorebirding was good at Lake Tawakoni this month. Despite a few cold fronts with rain, relatively few passerine migrants, particularly warblers, were reported.
A Red-throated Loon was at Lake Tawakoni on April 14 (GC, BS), a Pacific Loon was there on April 15 (RK, RBa) and one was at Richland Chambers reservoir on April 17 (TP). An Anhinga was at Richland Creek WMA, Freestone Co., on April 21 (DC, DL). Two Black-bellied Whistling Duck were in Hunt Co. in early April (MW) and 1 was in Henderson Co. on April 21 (DC, DL). Lingering ducks included 2 Gadwall and 3 American Wigeon at Texas Eastman in Longview on April 25 (DB, ME), and a Lesser Scaup at Richland Creek WMA, Navarro Co., on April 29 (DC, DL, GC). Approximately 60 nesting Great Egrets were observed on Lake Cherokee on April 26 (DB, LB). A Northern Bobwhite, now a rare sight in north-east Texas, visited Jane Purtle’s yard in Cherokee Co. on April 20. Migrant raptors included 5-7 Ospreys at Lake Tawakoni on April 15 (RK, RBa), one over Truman Powell’s yard in Tyler on April 13, 4 Ospreys and 2 Mississippi Kites at Lake Tawakoni State Park on April 25 (RK), and a Mississippi Kite at Richland Creek WMA, Navarro Co., on April 29 (DC, DL, GC). A Bald Eagle was seen on its nest near Lake Bob Sandlin on April 11 and 13 (LB, DB), and a near-albino Red-tailed Hawk was photographed in Hunt Co. on April 16 (MW). Three Peregrine Falcons were an unusually high number for the spring, with single birds at Lake Tawakoni, Rains Co., on April 16 and 27 (MW), and one at Richland Creek WMA, Navarro Co., on April 21 (DC, DL). A Merlin was at Lake Tawakoni, Rains Co., on April 16 (MW), and 2 Crested Caracaras were at Richland Creek WMA, Navarro Co., on April 21 (DC, DL).
Lake Tawakoni, Rains Co., cornered the migrant shorebird market, hosting a Long-billed Curlew and 2 Marbled Godwits on April 14 (GC, BS), 2 Buff-breasted Sandpipers on April 15 (RK, RBa), a Ruddy Turnstone, a rare spring migrant, 2 Buff-breasted Sandpipers and 100-150 Baird’s Sandpipers on April 16 (all MW), a Willet and an unusually high number of 36 Semipalmated Plovers on April 25 (RK), and 3 Hudsonian Godwits and a Piping Plover on April 26 (both MW).Two Snowy Plovers were also there from April 10-30 (MW, GC, BS, RK), and 5 birds were present on April 26 (MW). Richland Creek WMA, Navarro Co., held 30 American Golden Plovers, 4 Semipalmated Plovers, 100 Lesser Yellowlegs and 50 Long-billed Dowitchers on April 21 (DC, DL), and a Black-bellied Plover, a Semipalmated Plover and the first 7 White-rumped Sandpipers of the spring on April 29 (DC, DL, GC). Seventeen Willets were at Texas Eastman in Longview on April 25 (DB, ME). A California Gull and a Caspian Tern were at Lake Tawakoni, Rains Co., on April 15 (RK, RBa). Single Caspian Terns were at Texas Eastman in Longview on April 25 (DB, ME) and at Lake Tawakoni, Rains Co., on April 26 (MW).
A Greater Roadrunner was at Texas Eastman in Longview on April 20 (DB), and a Fish Crow was there on April 3 (ME, DB). In Hunt Co., a Greater Roadrunner was spotted on April 30, an unusually late Yellow-bellied Sapsucker was present from April 10-30, and a red-shafted race of Northern Flicker was there from April 21-30 (all TBr). White-winged Doves continue to spread, with a bird spotted in Longview on April 13 and 14 (CT, LE). A late Brown Creeper was at the Villages on April 6 (RG) and a very late Red-breasted Nuthatch was at Camp Tyler on April 22 (JDa). A Bewick’s Wren was unusual in Tyler on April 13 (TP). Two Wood Thrushes were singing at the Villages on April 29 (RG). Two Warbling Vireos were at Camp Tyler on April 16 (PB) and 2 were in Van Zandt Co. on April 29 (DC, DL, GC). A Horned Lark was a surprise at Richland Creek WMA, Navarro Co., on April 21 (DC, DL). A Hooded Warbler, unusual in the western part of our region, was spotted at Lake Tawakoni in Van Zandt Co. on April 1 (RK, RBa). A Northern Waterthrush was a good yard bird in Cherokee Co. on April 29 (JPu). Other notable migrant warblers included single Blue-winged and Magnolia Warblers banded at Tom Walker’s farm in Marion Co. on April 28, a Magnolia Warbler in Henderson Co. on April 29 (DC, DL, GC), and a Canada Warbler at the Villages on April 29 (RG). A Swainson’s Warbler, presumably a migrant, was a surprising find at Bellwood Lake on April 24 (PB). A Rose-breasted Grosbeak and a very late Harris’ Sparrow were in Van Zandt Co. on April 24 (RK) Two Vesper Sparrows were still in Upshur Co. on April 1 (ME). The unseasonable snow on April 7 brought 12 Pine Siskins to Cheryle Beck’s feeders in Cherokee Co. The most exciting passerine spotted this month was a male Lazuli Bunting near Lake Tyler, which was well documented by photographs (JMi). A Baltimore Oriole was at Lake Tawakoni State Park and 2 were in Van Zandt Co. on April 29 (all DC, DL, GC).
Locations:
Freestone County: Richland Chambers reservoir
Gregg County: Lake Cherokee, Longview
Harrison County: Texas Eastman in Longview
Hunt County: Lake Tawakoni State Park
Smith County: Bellwood
Lake, The Villages, Tyler
Titus County: Lake Bob Sandlin
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Observers: |
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PB Peter Barnes RBa Ron Baltzegar CB
Cheryle Beck |
ME Mark Edmund DL Dell Little |
BS Bob Stone CT Candy Troop MW Matt White
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Northeast Texas Bird Report, March 2007 by Peter Barnes and Matt White
Continuing the trend from the winter, the weather in March was generally mild, Swallows trickled in a little later than usual in early March, followed by passerine migrants and breeders in mid-late March. Shorebird migrants began to arrive in the middle of the month.
The Holiday Marina at Lake Tawakoni hosted a Red-throated Loon (RK, RBa) and a good concentration of 45 Common Loons on March 25 (RK, RBa). Two Neotropic Cormorants were at Lake Tawakoni, Rains Co., on March 18 (MW). An adult and an immature Mute Swan were seen at Big Creek Lake on March 5, raising speculation that these could potentially be wild birds (MW). Approximately 20,000 Snow and Ross’ Geese were an impressive concentration at Cooper Lake, Delta Co., on March 2 (MW). A Cackling Goose was in Delta Co. on March 9 (MW), a rare immature blue morph of Ross’ Goose was in Delta Co. on March 10 (MW), and 2 Canada Geese were at Purtis Creek State Park, Van Zandt Co., on March 29 (RK). A Snow Goose and 250 American White Pelicans were at Lake O’ the Pines, Marion Co., on March 2 (DB), and 191 American White Pelicans were at Lake Bob Sandlin on March 10 (DB). Three Black-bellied Whistling Ducks were in Henderson Co. on March 11 (DC, DL) and 2 were on Lake Palestine, in Smith Co., on March 30 and 31 (fide GR). A Common Goldeneye was still at Richland Creek WMA, Freestone Co., on March 24 (Tyler Audubon Society field trip). The first Blue-winged Teal was reported at Big Creek Lake on March 6 (MW).
Notable raptors included an early Swainson’s Hawk at Lake Wright Patman, Bowie Co., on March 10 (MD), a Harlan’s Red-tailed Hawk in Delta Co. on March 10 (MW), 2 Crested Caracaras in Van Zandt Co. on March 18 (MW), and single Ospreys at Texas Eastman in Longview on March 7 (DB) and at Camp Tyler on March 21 (UTTBC). A Northern Harrier was notable for Cherokee Co. on March 8 (JPu). An American Woodcock was still in Bowie Co. on March 27 (MW). Six Pectoral Sandpipers were the first reported this spring, at Lake Bob Sandlin on March 10 (DB), extremely early single Snowy Plovers and Sanderling were spotted at Lake Tawakoni, Rains Co., on March 18 and 19, respectively (MW). The first Western Sandpiper was observed at Lake Tawakoni, Rains Co., on March 19 (MW), and 24 American Golden Plovers were seen in Fannin Co. on March 21 (RT). Eleven American Golden Plovers and 10 Long-billed Dowitchers were at Richland Creek WMA in Navarro Co. on March 24 (Tyler Audubon field trip), and 3 American Golden Plovers were at the Gregg Co. airport on March 31 (MWo). The first Franklin’s Gull was observed at Big Creek Lake on March 6 (MW) and 2 Herring Gulls were at Lake Bob Sandlin on March 10 (DB).
A Greater Roadrunner was observed in Titus Co. on March 3 (DB). The first Purple Martin was reported on the unusually late date of March 1 at Texas Eastman in Longview (DB). These are usually one of the first spring migrants and typically arrive in early to mid-February. Other swallows arriving were the first Northern Rough-winged Swallow and Tree Swallows at Texas Eastman in Longview on March 5 and 7, respectively (DB, ME), and the first Barn Swallow in Hopkins Co. on March 6 (MW). Also on March 6, many Tree Swallows were observed entering nesting cavities at Big Creek Lake and 75 Cliff Swallows were at Cooper Lake, Hopkins Co. (MW). Two Cave Swallows were noted at Lake Tawakoni, Rains Co., on March 18 (MW) and one provided a first record for Smith Co. on March 31 (PB). Two Rock Wrens were at Cooper Lake on March 2, and the two wintering at Lake Tawakoni State Park were still present on March 22, later than previous wintering birds (all MW). A Fish Crow was a little further west than usual at Cooper Lake, Delta Co., on March 10 (MW).
An early Yellow-billed Cuckoo was at Richland Creek WMA in Freestone
Co. on March 24 (PB). The wintering Rufous Hummingbird in Peggy Harding’s
yard in Rusk Co. was still present on March 31. The first Scissor-tailed
Flycatcher was observed in Tyler on March 13 (RG). Two hundred American
Pipits were a good concentration at Lake Bob Sandlin on March 3 (DB) and
single Sprague’s Pipits were seen in Fannin Co. on March 21 (RT) and in
Hunt Co. on March 29 (MW). The first Black-and-White Warbler, one of our
early migrant/breeding warblers, was seen in Henderson Co. on March 10 (DC, DL).
Other first-of-season reports for warblers that typically arrive in March
included Yellow-throated Warbler at Texas Eastman in Longview on March 20
(DB), Northern Parula at Camp Tyler on March 21 (UTTBC), Prothonotary
Warbler at Richland Creek WMA in Freestone Co. on March 24 (PB),
Louisiana Waterthrush at Cooper Lake, Hopkins Co. on March 24 (MW), 3
Nashville Warblers in Rusk Co. on March 25 (PH), and Black-throated Green
Warbler in Canton on March 28 (RK). An extraordinarily early Mourning
Warbler was reported in Rusk Co. on March 26 (PH). This is usually one of
the last warblers to pass through and typically arrives here in late April. Two
Western Meadowlarks were observed in Hopkins Co. on March 3, a singing
bird was in Titus Co. on March 24 (both DB), and an impressive concentration of
100 birds were in Delta Co. on March 9 (MW). The wintering Henslow’s Sparrow
was still at Texas Eastman in Longview on March 5 (DB, ME). Eight Pine
Siskins were still in Morris Co. on March 25 (DB, LB) and 2 were in Cherokee
Co. on March 9 (JPu). Singing Great-tailed Grackles were at the Gregg Co.
airport on March 17 and 31 (DWo, MWo) and are now widespread in Tyler.
Counties and Locations:
Delta County: Big Creek Lake, Cooper Lake State Park
Harrison County: Texas Eastman in Longview
Smith County: Camp Tyler, Tyler
Titus County: Lake Bob Sandlin
Van Zandt County: Canton, Holiday Marina at Lake Tawakoni, Lake Tawakoni State Park
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Observers: |
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PB Peter Barnes RBa Ron Baltzegar DB David Brotherton ME Mark Edmund |
RG Ron Gutberlet DL Dell Little GR Gloria Rognlie |
RT Randy Treadway UTTBC UT Tyler Birding Club MW Matt White DWo David Wolf MWo Mimi Wolf
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Northeast Texas Bird Report, February 2007 by Peter Barnes and Matt White
The relatively warm winter continued, accompanied by a dearth of reports of winter finches, such as Purple Finches and Pine Siskins. The 3 Tundra Swans reported in Clarksville last month, which were the first documented by photos in north-east Texas (MW), were last seen on Feb 15 (JSm). An estimated 1500-3000 Horned Grebes were an impressive, but fairly regular, concentration at Lake Tawakoni, Rains Co., on Feb 21 (RK). One hundred and eighty five Horned Grebes and 56 Common Loons were also good numbers at Lake O’ the Pines, Marion Co., on Feb 11 (DB). Ten Ross’ Geese, 2 Canada Geese and 690 Snow Geese were in Hopkins Co. on Feb 4 (DB), a Canada Goose was at the Lake Tyler concession area on Feb 21 (UTTBC), and 140 Snow Geese and 40 Greater White-fronted Geese were observed in Trinidad on Feb 24 (DC, DL). Lake O’ the Pines, Marion Co., hosted a Snow Goose on Feb 9 and 15 Red-breasted Mergansers on Feb 11 (both DB). A Crested Caracara was near Trinidad on Feb 24 (DC, DL), a Merlin was spotted at Texas Eastman in Longview on Feb 10 (NETFO/Tyler Audubon field trip), and an Osprey was seen there on Feb 14 (DB, ME). Four American Woodcocks were heard in Gregg Co. on Feb 3 (NETFO field trip) and two were observed in Titus Co. on Feb 4 (DB). Five Herring Gulls were at Lake O’ the Pines, Marion Co., on Feb 11 (DB).
Two Greater Roadrunners were observed in Fannin Co. on Feb 4 (DB) and one was at the same location in Cherokee Co. from Feb 4-7 (JPu). It is uncertain if this may represent unusually early breeding by this species, which usually starts nesting in early March. An immature Rufous Hummingbird visited Peggy Harding’s feeders in Rusk Co. from Feb 8-28. The rash of Rock Wrens continued, with one spotted at Cooper Lake State Park on Feb 10 (MD). A flock of 600 Cedar Waxwings was an impressive sight in Tyler on Feb 15 (PB). An almost pure white leucistic American Robin was photographed in Smith Co. during the first half of February (DG). A cooperative Henslow’s Sparrow was observed at Texas Eastman in Longview on Feb 10 (NETFO/Tyler Audubon field trip). More than 100 American Goldfinches visited Jim and Cherry Day’s yard near Camp Tyler daily in early February. Two Pine Siskins visited a feeder in Daingerfield on Feb 8, and 4 were there on Feb 9 (LB, DB). Twenty-five Rusty Blackbirds, uncommon this winter, were seen in Gregg Co. on Feb 3 (NETFO field trip) and 50 were at Camp Tyler on Feb 24 (PB).
Counties and Locations:
Delta County: Cooper Lake State Park
Harrison County: Texas Eastman in Longview
Henderson County: Trinidad
Red River County: Clarksville
Smith County: Camp Tyler, Tyler
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Observers: |
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PB Peter Barnes LB Luanne Brotherton DB David Brotherton |
DG Dan Guillotte RG Ron Gutberlet |
JSm Jim W. Smith UTTBC UT Tyler Birding Club MW Matt White |
Northeast Texas Bird Report, January 2007 by Peter Barnes and Matt White
The Tenaha Christmas Bird Count (CBC) on Jan 1 netted 101 species. A Pacific Loon was at the Holiday Marina on Jan 10 (RK). Three Tundra Swans, rare in north-east Texas, were spotted near Clarksville on Jan 25 (JSm), and were still present on Feb 4 (MW, DB, PB, MD, RG). Approximately 1500 Snow Geese were an impressive sight near Trinidad in Henderson Co. on Jan 26 (Tyler Audubon field trip). A Snow Goose was at Texas Eastman in Longview on Jan 11 (DB, ME), and a Greater White-fronted Goose, perhaps the same bird seen earlier this winter, was at Lake Tyler East on Jan 13 (Tyler Audubon field trip). Three Snow Geese and 1 Ross’ Goose were in Bowie Co. on Jan 21 (DB). Twenty-two Common Goldeneye and 3 Redheads in Panola Co. were notable for the Tenaha CBC (DB, WBr). An Osprey was at Texas Eastman in Longview on Jan 29 (DB, ME). Two Greater Yellowlegs and a Spotted Sandpiper in Panola Co. (both DB, WBr) were the first reported on the Tenaha CBC since 1989 and 1988, respectively, presumably because of low water levels at Lake Tenaha.
A Greater Roadrunner was in Hunt Co. on Jan 8 (TBr). Seventeen Red-headed Woodpeckers were a good number for the Tenaha CBC. The Rock Wren wintering at Lake Wright Patman was seen again in Cass Co. on Jan 7 and 21 (MD), and the two Rock Wrens at Lake Tawakoni State Park were still present on Jan 26 (RK). Five Loggerhead Shrikes, now a notable Christmas count bird, were observed on the Tenaha CBC. A Golden-crowned Kinglet was unusual for Richland Creek WMA in Freestone Co. on Jan 6 (DC, DL). A Blue-Gray Gnatcatcher in Panola Co. (DB, WBr) and a Gray Catbird in Shelby Co. (DW) were spotted on the Tenaha CBC.
At Lake Tawakoni, Rains Co., 4 Chestnut-collared Longspurs and a Lark Sparrow were observed on Jan 3 (MW), and an Indigo Bunting was a surprising find on Jan 10 (RK). Two Harris’ Sparrows were further east than usual on the Tenaha CBC (PH, BG), and 3 were near Quinlan in Hunt Co. on Jan 15 and 16 (TBr). A Henslow’s Sparrow was at Texas Eastman in Longview on Jan 29 (DB, ME). The warm winter has yielded few reports of winter finches, and the only report this month was of a Purple Finch and a Pine Siskin at Peggy Harding’s feeders in Rusk Co. on Jan 17 during a rare spell of cold weather. Twenty-two Rusty Blackbirds, which have also been scarce this winter, were noted on the Tenaha CBC (DB, WBr).
Counties and Locations:
Harrison County: Texas Eastman in Longview
Hunt County: Lake Tawakoni State Park
Red River County: Clarksville
Smith County:
Lake Tyler East
Van Zandt County: Holiday Marina
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Observers: |
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PB Peter Barnes TBr Tyson Brennan DB David Brotherton DC D. D. Currie |
ME Mark Edmund RG Ron Gutberlet PH Peggy Harding |
DW David Weaver MW Matt White |
Click here for Northeast Texas Bird Reports
November 2005 - December 2006
Reporting Bird Sightings
If you have interesting or unusual bird sightings to report, please E-mail your reports to peter.barnes(at)uthct.edu. Peter Barnes maintains an E-mail mailing list to which he sends reports about rare and interesting birds in the northeast Texas area. To be added to his E-mail list, send an E-mail to peter.barnes(at)uthct.edu. Each month Peter Barnes compiles our local bird sighting reports, which are then published on our website and forwarded to the Texas Ornithological Society and the American Birding Association for their monthly and quarterly bird report publications.
If you don't know which birds are common in Northeast Texas and which are not, be sure to consult the NETFO Bird Checklist (available at regular meetings of the Northeast Texas Field Ornithologists). Another valuable resource is Matt White's Birds of Northeast Texas. If you believe you have a truly rare sighting to report, immediately record on paper as many details about the bird as you can. Then call for possible confirmation by others. Try to get a photograph of the bird, if possible, and create a well-documented written account of your sighting. Bird review committees and other researchers will need this to verify or validate your claim. To help with submitting bird reports, the Texas Bird Records Committee offers a Rarity Report Form at http://www.texasbirds.org/tbrc/bird_rpt.htm.
Northern Flicker photo by Peggy Harding. Copyright © 1999-2007. All rights reserved.
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