Kentucky Rare Bird Alert

Past Updates: January - December 2001

December 26, 2001

The highlights of this update are:  the continued presence of a Rufous Hummingbird in Paris, a report of a Snowy Owl in Grant County, and highlights of the Bernheim Forest CBC.

The Rufous Hummingbird continues to visit a feeder in Paris, Bourbon County. The male individual was observed as recently as December 24th.  For those wishing to observe the bird, directions and procedures follow:  Birders are welcome and an advance call is not necessary, but afternoon is preferred for visits.  The bird was visiting the feeder every 10-15 minutes at last
report.  It is at the home of Vicky Sanders, 345 Kingsley Court in Paris. The directions below are for those traveling US 68 from Lexington.  Follow US 68 into Paris past the bypass, directly towards downtown.  Turn right on Winchester Road (KY 627); go around right curve, over the tracks and take the first right (Vine St).  Go a short distance and take the first left
(Kinsley Ct).  The Sanders' house is the last on the right (345) with white picket fence.  Park somewhere in front and walk back the drive.  Stand near the garage looking back at the feeder in front of the closest window.  If you want to call as a courtesy to the host, the number is 859-987-4440.

A Snowy Owl has again been reported in Grant County in the town of Dry Ridge.  This most recent report was made on December 25th, along Cherokee Trail in Dry Ridge.  Further details on this report are not available and this report is in need of further verification.

The Bernheim Forest Christmas Bird Count was held on December 23rd. Highlights of the count include:  a Ross's Goose, 3 Golden Eagles, 1 House Wren, 40 Red-breasted Nuthatches, and approximately 120 American Pipits.

Sandhill Cranes are continuing to migrate through Kentucky on their journey south.  On December 22nd, 20 - 25 Cranes were observed flying in Madison County.  On December 23rd, approximately 60 Sandhill Cranes were observed in flight in Pulaski County.  Finally, on December 25th, a small flock was observed in the air over Jefferson County.  Bald Eagles have been reported far from large bodies of water this week on 2 occasions.  On December 26th, a Bald Eagle was observed in Hardin County and another was observed in Caldwell County on the same date.

Security at Kentucky Dam is beginning to relax after 3 months of very limited access to the facility for birders.  The pull-offs on top of the dam are now open to the public again as is the parking lot on the east side of the Tennessee River below the dam.  The locks and the west parking lot remain closed to the public.  Birders in the dam area on December 26th tallied unspecified numbers of the expected species of gull and waterfowl.

Efforts to re-locate the Prairie Falcon in Fulton County proved to be unsuccessful on December 22nd.  However, birders were able to observe several American Pipits, Lapland Longspurs, and Horned Larks, as well as 3 Western Meadowlarks.

December 22, 2001

The highlights of this update are:  a Rufous Hummingbird in Paris, Glaucous Gull at Kentucky Dam, Red-throated Loon and Eared Grebe at Green River Reservoir, an Evening Grosbeak in Pulaski County, and highlights of early Christmas Bird Counts.

A Rufous Hummingbird has been located in Paris, Bourbon County.  The bird has apparently been coming to a feeder there for over a month and will likely stick around for a while.  However, birders who wish to see this individual should be cautioned that a pending cold front with sub-freezing temperatures might alter the status of the bird.  For those wishing to observe the bird, directions and procedures follow:  Birders are welcome and an advance call is not necessary, but afternoon is preferred for visits. The bird was visiting the feeder every 10-15 minutes at last report.  It is at the home of Vicky Sanders, 345 Kingsley Court in Paris.  The directions below are for those traveling US 68 from Lexington.  Follow US 68 into Paris past the bypass, directly towards downtown.  Turn right on Winchester Road (KY 627); go around right curve, over the tracks and take the first right (Vine St).  Go a short distance and take the first left (Kinsley Ct).  The Sanders' house is the last on the right (345) with white picket fence.  Park somewhere in front and walk back the drive.  Stand near the garage looking back at the feeder in front of the closest window.  If you want to call as a courtesy to the host, the number is 859-987-4440.

A first winter Glaucous Gull was observed on December 15th on the LBL CBC. The bird was observed below Kentucky Dam in the company of several hundred common gulls.  Other birds observed on the LBL CBC included 6 Lesser Black-backed Gulls, 43 Bald Eagles, 226 American White Pelicans, & 7 Forster's Terns.  A total of 91 species were observed.

The Louisville BCB, held on December 16th, was hampered by bad weather.  A total of 77 species were observed including 2 Eastern Phoebes and 1 House Wren.  The Warsaw CBC held on December 16th recorded 64 species including 8 Lapland Longspurs, 1 Pine Siskin, 2 Red-breasted Nuthatches, and a Pine Warbler.

Other birds of note reported this week include an Evening Grosbeak attending a feeder in Pulaski County.  This is apparently one individual and it is unknown if the bird is lingering in the area.  A Red-throated Loon and an Eared Grebe were observed at Green River Reservoir on December 21st.  Both birds were located in the area near the State Boat Dock.  Eight common
species of waterfowl were also observed, as were over 150 Sandhill Cranes in flight.

December 17, 2001

The highlights of this update are:  a single Glaucous Gull at Kentucky Dam, Lesser Black-backed Gulls in the lakes area, a Red-throated Loon at Barren River Reservoir, and lingering American White Pelicans on Lake Barkley.

A first year Glaucous Gull was observed on the Land Between the Lakes Christmas Bird Count on December 15th, below Kentucky Dam.  At the time of observation, the Gull was in the parking area below the dam on the west bank.  This area is currently closed to the public for security reasons, but the bird was also viewed by observers not participating in the CBC on the same date from the boat dock below the dam.  This facility remains open to the public and accessible to birders.

At exactly the same location and time, 4 Lesser Black-backed Gulls were observed.  Of these, 3 were first winter birds and 1 was an adult. Additionally, 2 adult Lesser Black-backed Gulls were observed at Barkley Dam.  Both were observed by CBC counters above the dam from locations closed to the public for security reasons.  1 of the birds was later observed below
the dam on the west side, just north of the locks.  This location is open to the public.  Still another Lesser Black-backed Gull was observed outside the CBC circle by a field trip near Kuttawa.  Over 200 Herring Gulls and several hundred Bonaparte's Gulls were observed at various locations on both Lakes on that date as well.

A Red-throated Loon continues to be reported on Barren River Reservoir as of December 14th.  The Loon was located between Bailey's Point and Sawyer's Landing on the 4th, but was also observed on December 12th between Skaggs
Creek and "The Narrows".

Over 150 American White Pelicans remain on Lake Barkley between Kuttawa and the dam.  These individuals were observed as a part of the Land Between the Lakes CBC on December 15th.  Of this total, approximately 80 were observed on an Island just south of Buzzard Rock and about 70 were seen across the lake from Boyd's Landing.  Others were observed moving in small groups.

There have been several other reports of interest this week.  Five species of waterfowl and the local Peregrine Falcon were observed above the Falls of the Ohio in Jefferson County of December 12th; a Pine Siskin has joined the Black-capped Chickadee that continues to be observed in Lawrence County; a Dunlin was observed on Barren River Reservoir, and "pleating" American Woodcocks were reported in 3 counties.  Dix Dam/Brown Power Plant Ash Basin is playing host to common waterfowl including Horned Grebe, Pied-billed Grebe, American Black Duck, and Green-winged Teal as well as
Double-crested Cormorant.

December 10, 2001

The highlights of this update are:  Snowy Owl, Prairie Falcon, Surf Scoter, Black Scoter, White-winged Scoter, and Red-throated Loon.

A Snowy Owl was observed on December 9th at the Sauerheber Unit of the Sloughs Wildlife Management Area in Henderson County.  The bird was observed just prior to sunset for approximately 10 minutes.  Unfortunately, the observation ended as the Owl took flight and disappeared into the horizon. This Snowy Owl is presumed to have relocated.  Other species of interest
observed at the Sloughs on December 9th, include 200+ Greater White-fronted Geese, 4 Snow Geese, 15 Least Sandpipers, 8 species of common duck, 104 Common Snipe.

The Prairie Falcon reported earlier in southwestern Fulton County continues to be observed sporadically in both Kentucky and Tennessee.  Most observations have been on or near State Line Road just west of KY 94.  The bird was last observed on December 9th, but was also missed by several observers that same day.  Those searching for this bird should be aware that
Northern Harriers tend to "mob" the bird and if often perches on plowed fields for long periods of time.  There are numerous Horned Larks and Lapland Longspurs on the area as well.

A flyover Red-throated Loon was observed on a Beckham Bird Club/KOS Field Trip to the Peabody Wildlife Management Area in Ohio County on December 8th. The Red-throated Loon was in the company of 7 Common Loons and was not
observed to land.  Its current location is unknown.  Seven to eight Short-eared Owls were also observed on the field trip.

A massive movement of waterfowl through Kentucky occurred on the evening of November 7th and 8th.  On the morning of November 8th, huge numbers of waterfowl were observed at several locations.  By the morning of November 9th, most of the birds had left the area.  On December 8th, Surf Scoters were observed at 4 locations on the Ohio River between Louisville and
Warsaw.  This included an impressive group of 27 individuals near Twelve Mile Island.  On the same date, 5 Black Scoters were observed at 3 locations, also on the Ohio River.  Other birds of interest observed in the same general area include:  300+ Redheads, 650 Lesser Scaup, 500 Red-breasted Mergansers, and 120+ Buffleheads.

Barren River Reservoir also reported huge numbers of waterfowl on December 8th.  11 species of waterfowl were observed including 125 Common Loons, about 1,000 Lesser Scaup, and 325 Red-breasted Mergansers.  In excess of 3,000 birds were estimated to be present.  By the next day, numbers had declined and only 16 Common Loons, 1 Red-breasted Merganser and a small numbers of common waterfowl.  The waterfowl bonanza was also noted further east at Lake Cumberland where 2 Surf Scoters, 200 Red-breasted Mergansers, 100 Redheads, 200 Lesser Scaup and 15 Common Loons were observed.  Freeman
Lake, in Elizabethtown, also reported around 1,000 common waterfowl on December 8th.  On December 9th, even though waterfowl numbers had declined markedly, a White-winged Scoter was observed on the Ohio River from downtown Louisville above the Falls of the Ohio.

Other birds of interest reported this week include an adult Thayer's Gull and 84 American White Pelicans on Kentucky Lake, several Forster's Terns on Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley, a Palm Warbler in Grant County, and a Gray Catbird.

December 4, 2001

The highlights of this update are a Snowy Owl in Grant County, a Plegadis Ibis in Henderson County, and winter gulls at Kentucky and Barkley Dams.

A Snowy Owl has been reported in Grant County about ½ mile from Grant County High School.  The Owl was observed this afternoon near Boltz Lake and flew in the direction of Grant County High.  Directions to the sight are as follows: Take Interstate 75 to the Dry Ridge exit.  Turn left off of the exit (for those coming from the south).  Turn right at the second stop light onto Warsaw Road.  Proceed out Warsaw Road for approximately 3/4th of a mile.  Turn right on Dry Ridge-Mt. Zion Road.  Any of the roads on the right hand side of the road will take you to cul-de-sacs that overlook Boltz Lake. The Snowy Owl was seen in the trees in the washout on the left hand side of Cherokee Trail.

This whole area is residential and birders should watch about trespassing on private property. The high school is just down Warsaw Road from the turnoff on Dry Ridge - Mt. Zion Road.  At this time, it is uncertain if this is the same Owl that was previously located or if it is a different individual.

The Plegadis Ibis in Henderson County remains just north east of the junction of KY 268 and Tram Road in Henderson County.  The Ibis has been in the general area since November 11th and has been at exactly the same location for at least 5 days.  The Ibis was last observed at 3:15 PM CST on Monday, December 3rd.  Efforts to identify the Ibis to species are
incomplete, but many observers feel that the bird may be a White-faced Ibis. To reach the Ibis location, take US 62 south from Henderson to KY 326.  Turn west on KY 326 and follow to Geneva.  In Geneva, turn right onto KY 268. Follow KY 268 until you see the Soughs WMS signs on the left and begin watching on the right for the Tram Road.  Turn right on the Tram Road and stop after about 100 yards.  The Ibis has been in the standing water in the field to the right of Tram Road.  The pool contains duck decoys and is being hunted regularly.  Avoid early morning or late afternoon hours to avoid the hunters.

A few other birds of note have been reported this week.  At the Sloughs Wildlife Management Area on December 2nd, were 350 - 500 Greater White-fronted Geese and 15 Snow Geese.  278 Greater White-fronted Geese and 25 Snow Geese were also observed on November 30th.  Also present there were 6 Common Snipe, 1 American Pipit, and numerous Mallards, Gadwall, Northern Shoveler and Green-winged Teal. Snow Geese have also been reported flying over Lake Barkley in Trigg County.

Rounding out reports since the last update include Rudy Ducks, Hooded Merganser, Ring-necked Ducks, and Red-breasted Nuthatches from Lake Peewee in Madisonville, a Black-crowned Night-Heron in Fayette County, and Chipping Sparrows in Jefferson County

On December 3rd, 1 Lesser Black-backed Gull and 2 Thayer's Gulls were observed below Barkley Dam.  On the same date, 1 Thayer's Gull was observed below Kentucky Dam as was another Lesser Black-backed Gull.  Above Kentucky Dam, a Glaucaus Gull and a 3rd Lesser Black-backed Gull were observed.

December 3, 2001

The highlights of this update are a Snowy Owl in Grant County and a Plegadis Ibis in Henderson County.

A Snowy Owl has just been reported in Grant County about ½ mile from Grant County High School.  The Owl was observed this afternoon (Dec. 3) near Boltz Lake and flew in the direction of Grant County High.  Directions to the site are as follows: Take Interstate 75 to the Dry Ridge exit.  Turn left off of the exit (for those coming from the south).  Turn right at the second stop light onto Warsaw Road.  Proceed out Warsaw Road for approximately 3/4th of a mile.  Turn right on Dry Ridge-Mt. Zion Road.  Any of the roads on the right hand side of the road will take you to cul-de-sacs that overlook Boltz Lake.  The Snowy Owl was seen in the trees in the washout on the left hand side of Cherokee Trail.

This whole area is residential and birders should watch about trespassing on private property. The high school is just down Warsaw Road from the turnoff on Dry Ridge - Mt. Zion Road.  At this time, it is uncertain if this is the same Owl that was previously located or if it is a different individual.

The Plegadis Ibis in Henderson County remains just north east of the junction of KY 268 and Tram Road in Henderson County.  The Ibis has been in the general area since November 11th and has been at exactly the same location for at least 5 days.  The Ibis was last observed at 3:20 PM CST on Sunday, December 2nd.  Efforts to identify the Ibis to species are incomplete, but many observers feel that the bird may be a White-faced Ibis. If identified to species, this bird would be either Kentucky's first record of a White-faced Ibis or second record of a Glossy Ibis.  To reach the Ibis location, take US 62 south from Henderson to KY 326.  Turn west on KY 326 and follow to Geneva.  In Geneva, turn right onto KY 268.  Follow KY 268 until you see the Soughs WMS signs on the left and begin watching on the right for the Tram Road.  Turn right on the Tram Road and stop after about 100 yards.  The Ibis has been in the standing water in the field to the right of Tram Road.  The pool contains duck decoys and is being hunted regularly.  Avoid early morning or late afternoon hours to avoid the hunters.

A few other birds of note have been reported this week.  At the Sloughs WMA on December 2nd, were 350 - 500 Greater White-fronted Geese and 15 Snow Geese.  278 Greater White-fronted Geese and 25 Snow Geese were also observed on November 30th.  Also present there were 6 Common Snipe 1 American Pipit and numerous Mallards, Gadwall, Northern Shoveler and Green-winged Teal.  Snow Geese have also been reported flying over Lake Barkley in Trigg County.

Rounding out reports since the last update include Rudy Ducks, Hooded Merganser, Ring-necked Ducks, and Red-breasted Nuthatches from Lake Peewee in Madisonville, a Black-crowned Night-Heron in Fayette County, and Chipping Sparrows in Jefferson County.

November 29, 2001

The highlights of this update are:  another report of a Plegadis Ibis in Henderson County, a Long-tailed Duck in Jefferson
County, a Red-throated Loon at Barren River Reservoir, and a probable Black-capped Chickadee in Lawrence County.

A Plegadis Ibis has been relocated near the Sauerheber Unit of the Sloughs Wildlife Management Area in Henderson County.
This is probably the same individual that was observed earlier on the 11th and the 21st or 22nd of this month.  This time the
Ibis was observed on the morning of November 28th just north of KY 268 just east of the Tram Road.  This location is just
west of Hardy Slough, which is known to many birders.  No further details are available at this time.

A Red-throated Loon was observed at Sawyer's Landing on Barren River Reservoir this afternoon, November 29th.  The bird
was apparently quite a distance away from the shore.  Other species observed at Barren River today include a few Common
Loons, several Red-breasted Mergansers, and small numbers of Lesser and Greater Scaup, Dunlin, and Bonaparte's Gull.  A
single Lapland Longspur was also observed.

A male Long-tailed Duck was observed on the Ohio River today, November 29th near Cox's Park in Louisville.  The bird was
flying downstream at the time of observation and could not be relocated.  Other species of waterfowl observed in that area
today include Horned Grebe, Greater Scaup, Northern Shoveler, and Red-breasted Merganser.

A probable Black-capped Chickadee has been frequenting a feeder at Blaine in Lawrence County off and on for a few days.
The bird has been well described and seems to be a Black-capped Chickadee rather than a Carolina. A definitive identification
is expected within the next few days.  Other birders and bird feeders, especially in northeastern Kentucky, should be on
the lookout for this species.

Shorebirds remain in the commonwealth at this late date, though in decidedly low numbers.  Highlighting the shorebird is the
continued presence of a record late Semipalmated Plover at Blood River mud flats in Calloway County. This individual was
observed last observed on November 24th.  On that same date, a Long-billed Dowitcher, a Pectoral Sandpiper, and a few
Dunlin and Least Sandpipers were observed at nearby Jonathan Creek in Marshall County. More than 50 Forster's Terns were
also observed a Jonathan Creek and over 300 Bonaparte's Gulls were observed at Blood River on the same day. Yatesville
Lake contributed 2 Greater Yellowlegs to Kentucky's late shorebird species tally on November 27th near the Arrington Branch
of that Reservoir.

A KOS field trip to Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley on November 24th yielded 2 adult Lesser Black-backed Gulls as the
trip highlight.  Other species of note included 20+ American White Pelicans, several Common Loons and several Horned
Grebes.  On the same date, a raft of about 1,000 common waterfowl including Mallard, Gadwall, Northern Pintail, and
American Wigeon were present on Lake Barkley at the WMA near Donnelson Bay in Trigg County.  Also present there were
2 Forster's Terns and 18 American White Pelicans.

On November 28th, 342 Red-breasted Mergansers were observed on Green River Reservoir.  Other birds observed at that
time included about 50 Common Loons and about 40 Horned Grebes as well as several Bonaparte's Gulls and 33 Sandhill
Cranes.

Other birds of interested reported since the last update on November 23rd include a possible Black-capped Chickadee and a
Red-breasted Nuthatch in Ashland, a Merlin at Raven Run in Fayette County, a Gray Catbird and Pine Warbler in Jefferson
County and a Hermit Thrush, a Fox Sparrow, and an Eastern Phoebe at Yahoo Falls in McCreary County.  Eastern Phoebes
were also observed at Blood River Embayment.

November 23, 2001

The highlights of this update are: a Plegadis Ibis in Henderson County, a Black-throated Blue Warbler in Madison County, a
White-winged Scoter in Jefferson County, a possible Black-capped Chickadee in Lawrence County, Sandhill Crane migrants,
an update on the Snowy Owl in Grant County, and other migrants and winter residents.

A Plegadis Ibis was located in the Ohio River floodplain of Henderson County near the Sauerheber Unit of the Sloughs Wildlife
Management Area on November 10th.  The observers identified the bird as a Glossy Ibis.  However, pending a review by the
Kentucky Bird Records Committee, a Plegadis Ibis is a more conservative and appropriate call on the identification at this
time.  This Ibis was observed again on November 22nd, but a search for the Ibis on November 23rd failed to locate the bird.

An adult male Black-throated Blue Warbler was observed on November 22nd in Berea, Madison County.  The bird made a
brief appearance of about 5 minutes in a back yard and has not been located since.  It is doubtful that this bird remains in the
area of its observation.  This appears to constitute a late fall record for Black-throated Blue Warbler in Kentucky.

On November 21st, a White-winged Scoter was observed on the Ohio River in Jefferson County opposite of Utica, Indiana.
The current status of the bird is unknown.  Other species of interest observed on the Ohio River that day include several
Bufflehead, 20 Lesser Scaup, and 15 Ring-necked Ducks on the River just upstream from the Falls of the Ohio.

A possible Black-capped Chickadee has been reported in Lawrence County at a feeder.  This bird has NOT been positively
identified, but is at one of the same feeders that definitely had the species in the winter of 1999-2000. Updates will be provided
on this individual as warranted.

Sandhill Crane migration is in full swing with reports from several locations across the state.  Reports of Sandhill Crane
movement since November 19th are as follows:

     200-300 flying over Otter Creek Park in Meade County on November 20th,
     A large number flying over Hart County, also on November 20th,
     30 flying over Calhoun in McLean County on November 21st, and
     42 flying over Burlington in Boone County on November 21st.

The Snowy Owl in Grant County has apparently been found dead in a farm field.  While a birder did not observe the dead bird
in hand, a local landowner described it fairly accurately.  There has been another report of a possible Snowy Owl in Grant
County.  This observation was not made by a known birder and cannot be considered reliable at this time.

On November 20th, 12 species of waterfowl and related species were observed on Lake Cumberland.  Highlights of these
observations include 1 Common Merganser, 38 Hooded Mergansers, 27 Redheads, and 4 Bonaparte's Gulls.  On
November 22nd, 7 Lapland Longspurs were observed in Logan County in a flock of about 250 Horned Larks.

November 19, 2001

The highlight of this update is a late fall record Semipalmated Plover.

A single Semipalmated Plover that continues to stay at Blood River Embayment mudflat has shattered the previous fall record
for this species.  The plover was last reported on November 18, far later than the previous late date of October 26th.  It should
be noted that each subsequent observation of this bird will establish yet another record for Semipalmated Plover in Kentucky.
Unspecified numbers of Eastern Bluebirds massing at the mud flat and American Pipits complete the report from Blood River.
Reports of other shorebirds in the state are essentially lacking this week and are confined to 3 Least Sandpipers at the Peabody
Ash Basin in Muhlenberg County as of November 18th.

Lapland Longspurs, Evening Grosbeaks, Pine Siskins, Red-breasted Nuthatches and Purple Finches are the most interesting
passerines reported since the last update.  Two (2) flocks of Pine Siskins were reported in Frankfort on November 16, one as
large as 15 to 20 birds.  Additional Pine Siskins were observed at the Falls of the Rough, near Rough River Reservoir, on
November 13th.  Three (3) Red-breasted Nuthatches were observed in the Sinclair Unit of the Peabody Wildlife Management
Area (SUPWMA) on November 18th in a thicket of Virginia Pines.  Additional Red-breasted Nuthatches and vocalizing
Evening Grosbeaks were observed at the Falls of the Rough on November 13th. Eight (8) Purple Finches were observed in
Jefferson County on November 18th as well.  Perhaps the most interesting passerine sighting was in Logan County. This
observation was of several Lapland Longspurs associating with numerous Horned Larks in fields containing corn stubble.  Nice
flocks of fifty (50) or more Cedar Waxwings were reported at Lexington Cemetery in Fayette County and also at the
SUPWMA in Muhlenberg County.  A single Hermit Thrush and a single Fox Sparrow were also observed on November 18th
at the SUPWMA.

There has been no report of the Snowy Owl in Grant County since Monday, November 12th.  The Owl has apparently left the
area where it was first observed.

November 14, 2001

Highlights of this update include the continued presence of a Snowy Owl in Grant County, a Semipalmated Plover at Blood River, and fly over events of Sandhill Cranes.

A Snowy Owl was observed on the campus of Grant County High School in Dry Ridge.  The owl was apparently in the area for several days, but hasn't been observed since about 4:30 p.m. EST on November 12.

Birders who attempt to see the Snowy Owl should be advised that they may not enter the campus of Grant County High School without permission.  Checking in at the school office and requesting permission to look for the owl MAY result in access.  Looking for the owl after school hours is not a problem. For assistance in finding the bird, contact at MIseral@grant.k12.ky.us, a teacher at Grant County High School.

To reach Grant County High School, take Interstate 75 to exit 159, Dry Ridge.  Turn west at the end of the exit ramp and right at the next stoplight onto Warsaw Road (Grant County Deposit Bank will be on your left as you turn).  Follow Warsaw Road for about 1 mile and you will pass Grant County High School on the left.  The OWL has been observed on the roof of the school and also on a "ledge" of the building.

Sandhill Crane migration seems to be entering high gear.  Reports from several locations have been received in the last 2 days.  These reports include 35 individuals over Warren County on November 13th, 12 groups of individuals totaling over 1,000 at Rough River on November 12th, 60 birds over Owensboro in Daviess County on November 12th, 2 flocks totaling 110 individuals over Barren and Warren counties on November 12th, and 9 individuals over a home in Jefferson County, also on November 12th.

Continue to watch the sky for the v-shape formation and listen for the call of this species for the next few weeks.  Pay particular attention when winds are northerly and skies are sunny to mostly sunny.

A very late Semipalmated Plover remains at Blood River Embayment mud flat in Calloway County.  This may be a late date for Semipalmated Plover in Kentucky.

Other species of note previously reported include a Northern Saw-whet Owl in Jefferson County, several American White Pelicans on Lake Barkley, a raft of about 2,000 ducks composed mostly of Lesser Scaup above Barkley Dam, and about 120 Common Loons on Kentucky Lake.

November 12, 2001

Highlights of this update include:  a report of a SNOWY OWL in Grant County, an Evening Grosbeak in Daviess County, a Northern Saw-whet Owl in Jefferson County, & reports of late migrants.

A SNOWY OWL has been reported and apparently observed repeatedly in Grant County at 2 locations.  One location is on private property and advance permission must be obtained to enter that property.  However, the bird is also being seen at Grant County High School, in Dry Ridge.  Visitors should not trespass on the School campus while school is in session.

Persons wishing to see the SNOWY OWL should take Interstate 75 to exit 159, Dry Ridge.  Turn west at the end of the exit ramp, then right at the next stoplight onto Warsaw Road (Grant County Deposit Bank will be on your left as you turn).  Follow Warsaw Road for about 1 mile and you will pass Grant County High School on the left.  The OWL has been observed on the roof of the school and also on a "ledge" of the building.

An Evening Grosbeak made an appearance in Daviess County on November 9th. The bird was reported in the morning and updates on its status are lacking. A single Northern Saw-whet Owl has been observed in eastern Jefferson County on November 10th.  This bird was a migrant and has most likely moved through the area by the time of this report.

Shorebird migration is well past peak, but small numbers of individuals of a few species continue to be reported.  The most significant of these is the observation of a Semipalmated Plover at Blood River in Calloway County. This individual was observed on November 7th and again on November 11th. Dunlins, Common Snipe, Pectoral Sandpiper, Greater Yellowlegs, Lesser Yellowlegs, Western Sandpiper, & Least Sandpiper have all been reported in low numbers across the state.  Locations reporting shorebird species include Blood River embayment in Calloway County, Jonathan Creek embayment in Marshall County, Smithland Dam in Livingston County, the Paradise Ash Basin in Muhlenberg County, Mosley's Pond in Logan County, and Guthrie Swamp in Todd County.  In addition to the birds above, an American Woodcock was flushed in southern Logan County.

Invasive species of passerine have been reported in Kentucky in addition the Evening Grosbeak.  Pine Siskins continue to be reported in a variety of locations.  Numbers are usually small, but Pine Siskins have been in Jefferson, Logan, Pulaski, and Warren counties.  Red-breasted Nuthatches are also being reported in good number so far this fall.  Reports of Red-breasted Nuthatches this week come from Daviess and Lyon counties.  A Purple Finch located in Pulaski County completes the reports of invasive species.

Several lingering summer residents or early migrants have been reported this week.  These include Ospreys in at Capertown Swamp in Jefferson County and at Lake Barkley, a Common Yellowthroat in Calloway County, a Palm Warbler in Grayson County, a Barn Swallow in Allen County, Henslow's Sparrows in Muhlenberg County, single Great Egrets at 3 locations, Wood Ducks in Grayson County, and a Rose-breasted Grosbeak in Jefferson County.

Eighteen species of waterfowl and other aquatic birds have been reported this week.  Some highlights of these include:  2 Groups of American White  Pelicans of about 50 birds each on Lake Barkley, 2,000 Lesser Scaup &10 Greater Scaup, along with small numbers of several species on Lake Barkley, 120 Common Loons and 1 Common Goldeneye on Kentucky Lake, 6 Snow Geese at the Minor Clark Fish Hatchery and about 100 flying over south Warren County, & a Red-breasted Merganser on Barren River Reservoir.

Several other species of interest have been reported this week.  On November 12th, the Peabody Wildlife Management area yielded 2-3 Le Conte's Sparrows, a Vesper Sparrow, 2 Sedge Wrens, 2 Marsh Wrens, more than12 Northern Harriers, and 6 Shore-eared Owls.  On November 9th, an adult Lesser Black-backed Gull was observed on Lake Barkley, 6 Black-crowned Night-Herons were observed at Barkley Dam. & 25 Rusty Blackbirds were seen at Yatesville Lake in Lawrence County.  Other birds of interest reported this week include 4 Sandhill Cranes at Barren River Reservoir, a Rough-legged Hawk in Wayne County, a Hermit Thrush in Grayson County, a Winter Wren at Capertown Swamp, and several American Pipits at Jonathan Creek and Thurston Pond.

November 12, 2001

Highlight of this update is a SNOWY OWL in Grant County.

A SNOWY OWL has been reported and observed repeatedly in Grant County at 2 locations.  One location is on private property and advance permission must be obtained to enter that property.  However, the bird is also being seen at Grant County High School in Dry Ridge.  Visitors should not trespass on the school campus while school is in session.

Persons wishing to see the SNOWY OWL should take Interstate 75 to exit 159, Dry Ridge.  Turn west at the end of the exit ramp, then right at the next stoplight (Grant County Deposit Bank will be on your left as you turn) onto Warsaw Road.  Follow Warsaw Road for about 1 mile and you will pass Grant County High School (715 Warsaw Road) on the left.  The OWL has been observed on the roof of the school and also on a “ledge” of the building.

November 5, 2001

Highlights of this update include: a White-winged Crossbill in Madison County, Red-throated Loons at 2 locations, & migrant waterfowl and other species.

A first year male White-winged Crossbill was observed in a back yard in Richmond on Saturday, November 3.  The bird was observed at about 1:00 p.m. and was present for less than 5 minutes before flying away. The bird has not been seen again.

Also on November 3, 2 Red-throated Loons were observed in different locations.  An immature bird was observed at the end of the Mt. Carmel/Holmes Road on the Green River Reservoir.  Another individual, an adult, was observed from Little Bear Creek Boat Ramp on Kentucky Lake in Marshall County.  This Loon may be the same individual that was reported in the area on October 31st.  A White-winged Scoter reported from Little Bear Creek Boat Ramp on October 31st, but it has not been reported since that time and may have left the area.

A good number of waterfowl and other water birds have been reported from the Kentucky Lake area as well as Barren River Reservoir.  Four (4) groups of American White Pelicans have been reported on Lake Barkley within the last week.  On October 31st, 32 individuals were observed, on Saturday, groups of 17 and 22 were observed just south of Barkley Dam and another group of about 40 birds was observed just north of the Tennessee State line.  Over 20 Common Loons have been observed from Little Bear Creek Boat Ramp on Kentucky Lake for over a week and Double Crested Cormorants seem to be everywhere. In addition, over 70 Forster's Terns were present at Jonathan Creek on November 3.

A raft of approximately 1,500 ducks has formed south of Barkley Dam.  Nearly all individuals in the raft are Lesser Scaup.  However, about 50 Buffleheads and small numbers of Greater Scaup, Canvasback, Gadwall, Ruddy Duck, Horned Grebe, Pied-billed Grebe, Northern Pintail, Redhead, Green-winged Teal and other species.  Smaller numbers of puddle ducks are also present at Jonathan Creek on Kentucky Lake.  Species observed at that location in the past week include Northern Shoveler, Mallard, Gadwall, Ruddy Duck, & Green-winged Teal.  Eleven (11) species of common waterfowl were observed on Barren River Reservoir on October 30.  Highlights of these included American Black Duck, American Wigeon, and Hooded Merganser.  On November 5, sic (6) species of waterfowl were observed on Barren River Reservoir including 1 Greater Scaup, 12 Lesser Scaup, 8 Redheads and 4 Hooded Mergansers.  Fly over Snow Geese have been reported in flocks of about 50 birds in Barren and Warren counties.

Pine Siskins continue to be reported in small numbers from various locations in the state.  Reports of Pine Siskins this week have come from Warren, Pike, Boone, Montgomery, & Kenton counties.  In addition, a Purple Finch was observed in Warren County, Red-breasted Nuthatches continue to be reported from across the state, a Blue-headed Vireo was observed at the Western Kentucky University Woods in Warren County on November 1, and a small number of Lapland Longspurs were observed in Union County on November 4.

Water has dropped and shorebirds have returned to Jonathan Creek and Blood River on Kentucky Lake.  Shorebirds observed on November 3 at Jonathan Creek included 16 Dunlins, about 20 Least Sandpipers, 2 Western Sandpipers, 1
Lesser Yellowlegs, & 5 Common Snipe.  Small numbers of these species and a Pectoral Sandpiper were observed on November 4th at Blood River, also on Kentucky Lake.  Four (4) Greater Yellowlegs were also observed below Smithland Dam on November 3rd.

October 31, 2001

Highlights of this update include: the presence of Pine Siskins across the state, an Evening Grosbeak, migrating Sandhill Cranes,
and other migrants and returning winter residents.

Pine Siskins have invaded Kentucky in spectacular fashion in the last few days.  Reports from locations from across the state in
small numbers have flooded the bird line.  Locations reporting Pine Siskins include Warren County, Jefferson County, Daviess
County, Lawrence County, Nicholas County, and others.  Most reports were of 5 birds or fewer individuals and nearly
all involved feeders or birdbaths, but 13 birds were observed at one Jefferson County location.

A single Evening Grosbeak was observed at a feeder in Lawrence County on October 30.  This observation is hopefully a
harbinger of more to come. Sandhill Cranes were reported in a fly over event on October 25 in northern Barren County.  The
number of birds was not reported, but is assumed to be a small flock.

Fourteen (14) species of migrant waterfowl were observed at the Sloughs Wildlife Management Area on October 27.
Highlights of these observations include 12 Greater White-fronted Geese, 1 Snow Goose, 12 Northern Pintail, 12
Green-winged Teal, 40 Northern Shovelers, 1 Redhead, 10 Ring-necked Ducks, and 2 Buffleheads.  Other species of interest
observed there were 1 Pectoral Sandpiper and an American Pipit.  Flocks of overhead Snow Geese were also reported in
Ohio and Trigg counties.

Reports from the Kentucky Lake area include 2 observations of American White Pelicans, and other water related species.
On October 24, 14 American White Pelicans were observed on Kentucky Lake while another observer noted 19 birds on
nearby Lake Barkley.  Other birds of interest from "the Lakes" include 25 Franklin's Gulls and a Lesser Black-backed Gull on
October 24.

On October 25th, birders observed a single Le Conte's sparrow, 1 Virginia Rail, and 3-4 Marsh Wrens in marshy areas of the
Peabody Wildlife Management Area in Ohio County.  Other reports of interest within the last week include Ruby-throated
Hummingbirds at feeders in Calloway and Jefferson counties and a report of migrants and winter residents in Warren County at
the Western Kentucky Woods.  Migrants and returning winter residents reported at that location include numerous
Yellow-rumped Warblers, 1 Black-throated Green Warbler, 3 Pine Warblers, 1 American Woodcock, 1 Eastern Phoebe, 1
Red-breasted Nuthatch, 6 Golden-crowned Kinglets, 4 Ruby-crowned Kinglets, 1 Brown Creeper, and 1 Hermit Thrush.

October 24, 2001

Highlights of this update include: late migrant warblers and similar species, late migrant shorebirds, a report on the KOS/BBC
Field trip to the Sloughs WMA, and other migrants.

Fall migration is now well past peak and only a handful of warbler and similar species have been reported recently from
scattered locations across the state.  A total of 9 species warbler have been reported from Warren and Caldwell counties
within the last week including Pine Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler, Tennessee Warbler, Nashville Warbler,
Orange-crowned Warbler, Cape May Warbler, Bay-breasted Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, and Yellow-rumped
Warbler.  Only Tennessee and Yellow-rumped Warbler remain present in number.  Other passerine and land bird migrants
and winter residents reported from across the state include Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Red-breasted Nuthatch, Eastern
Phoebe, Brown Creeper, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Golden-crowned Kinglet, Blue-headed Vireo, Hermit Thrush,
Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Lincoln's Sparrow, and other common sparrow species.  Ruby-throated Hummingbirds have been
reported from Mt. Prospect and Louisville.

Shorebirds have been reported in low numbers from Blood River, the Falls of the Ohio, Paradise Ash Basin, Fishing Creek,
and other locations. Highlights from these reports include Dunlin, Black-bellied Plover, and Least Sandpiper at Blood River,
Dunlin and Least Sandpiper at the Falls of the Ohio, Dunlin and American Golden Plover at Fishing Creek, and Stilt
Sandpiper, Least Sandpiper, and Dunlin at Paradise.

The annual KOS/BBC Field Trip to the Sloughs Wildlife Management Area in Henderson County was held on October 20.
Highlights of this trip include 7 Soras, 2 Virginia Rails, 2 Nelson's Sharp-tailed Sparrows, and several Marsh Wrens and Sedge
Wrens.

Water birds continue to migrate through the state this week.  Species reported this week include Common Loon, at Barren
River Reservoir, Bonaparte's Gull at Kentucky Lake, Pied-billed Grebe, Gadwall, Ruddy Duck, Ring-necked Duck, at Lake
Peewee in Hopkins County, and American White Pelican and thousands of Double-crested Cormorants on Lake Barkley.

Perhaps the most interested report of water birds was made on October 18, when over 40 Franklin's Gulls were observed in
migration on Kentucky Lake. At about the same time, 2 Lesser Black-backed Gulls were observed, as were 100+ Forster's
Terns.  On October 16, 1 American Bittern, 10+ Soras, a Virginia Rail, and a Nelson's Sharp-tailed Sparrow were observed
at a marsh in Southern Livingston County.  On at least 2 dates, Henslow's Sparrow, Grasshopper Sparrow, Le Conte's
Sparrow, or Nelson's Sharp-tailed Sparrow were observed in unspecified sections of the Peabody Wildlife Management
Area.

October 17, 2001

Highlights of this update include: a report of an American Bittern in Owensboro, a very late Snowy Egret in Pulaski County, fall migrants and lingering summer resident species.

An American Bittern was reported near Southeastern Parkway in Owensboro, Daviess County, on the afternoon of October 16.  The bird was located in a residential yard about at the time of the observation at 5:30 PM on the date in question.  There have been no further updates and additional information is lacking.

A Snowy Egret was observed briefly at Pump House Pond in Pulaski County on October 16.  This individual was observed to leave the area at approximately 6:30 PM.  Snowy Egrets are uncommon in the eastern half of the state at any season.  As of 1988, all known records were west of Louisville and the late fall date was September 17, according to the Annotated Checklist.  This observation might well be the latest fall date ever for this species in Kentucky.

The Northern Kentucky Bird Club field trip to East Bend Power Plan in Boone County on October 14, produced several species of late migrants and some common waterfowl.  Passerine migrants observed were Eastern Phoebe, Blue-headed Vireo, Tennessee Warbler, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Common Yellowthroat & Indigo Bunting.  Waterfowl and similar species observed included Pied-billed Grebe, Double-crested Cormorant, Wood Duck, Blue-winged Teal, Green-winged Teal, Northern Shoveler, and American Coot.

Other migrant passerines and land birds reported this week include Ruby-throated Hummingbird from 2 counties, Palm Warbler from Pike County, Blackburnian Warbler from Calloway County, Black-throated Green Warbler and Hooded Warbler from Whitely County, and Nashville and Magnolia Warblers from Warren County. Four late Tree Swallows were also observed on October 17 in Warren County and Dickcissels were observed in Fulton County on October 9.

Additional species of water birds reported from across the state include Black-crowned Night-Heron, Horned Grebe, American Wigeon and Forster's Tern at Blood River in Calloway County, a Snow Goose in Rowan County, and a Hooded Merganser in Fayette County.

Several species of shorebirds have been reported from at least 3 locations. Jonathan Creek and Blood River Embayments on Kentucky Lake combined to produce small numbers of Black-bellied Plover, Lesser Yellowlegs, Greater Yellowlegs, Sanderling, Semipalmated Sandpiper, Least Sandpiper, White-rumped Sandpiper, Pectoral Sandpiper, Dunlin, Stilt Sandpiper, Dowitcher species, and Common Snipe. Minor Clark Fish Hatchery in Rowan County produced small numbers of Lesser Yellowlegs, Pectoral Sandpipers, Dowitcher species, and Common Snipe.  Finally, Kentucky Bend yielded 6 species of shorebirds on October 9, including Dunlin and Sanderling.

Other birds of interest reported this week include a Peregrine Falcon at Blood River, 3 Soras flushed during Rice harvest in Fulton County, and 6 Eurasian Collared-Doves in Owensboro.

October 9, 2001

Highlights of this update include: a report from the fall Kentucky Ornithological Society Meeting and fall migrants.

The fall meeting of the Kentucky Ornithological Society was held at Kenlake State Resort Park in Calloway County on September 28th - 30th.  At least 127 species were observed in a cumulative list maintained by those in attendance.  Among the best species observed were the following:  Franklin's Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Common Tern, Olive-sided Flycatcher, Eastern Kingbird, Sedge Wren, Philadelphia Vireo, Blackburnian Warbler, & Cape May Warbler.

Fall migration as passed peak and winter residents are beginning to arrive. Late migrant warblers and shorebirds, as well as other species, have been reported recently from across the state.  Perhaps the most noteworthy are a White-rumped Sandpiper at Jonathan Creek, a Sora, a Nelson's Sharp-tailed, and 2 Le Conte's Sparrows at Peabody Wildlife Management Area, and an American Bittern, also at the Peabody Wildlife Management Area.

Warbler species reported since the last update include: Tennessee Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler, Black-and-White Warbler, Magnolia Warbler, Golden-winged Warbler, Palm Warbler, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Bay-breasted Warbler, American Redstart, Pine Warbler, Orange-crowned Warbler, Ovenbird, Common Yellowthroat for a total of 17 species.

Other passerine and land bird migrants reported in the last week include: Osprey, Merlin, Chimney Swift, Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Tree Swallow, Northern Rough-winged Swallow, Barn Swallow, Eastern Wood-Peewee, Acadian Flycatcher, Eastern Phoebe, House Wren, Marsh Wren, Sedge Wren, Gray Catbird, American Pipit, Swainson's Thrush, Blue-headed Vireo, Yellow-throated Vireo, White-eyed Vireo, Indigo Bunting, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Chipping Sparrow, Savannah Sparrow, Henslow's Sparrow, Dickcissel, & Lincoln's sparrow.

Migrant waterfowl and shorebird species reported since the last update include Blue-winged Teal, Green-winged Teal, Northern Pintail, American Black Duck, Gadwall, Northern Shoveler, American Wigeon, Semipalmated Plover, Stilt Sandpiper, Lesser Yellowlegs, Greater Yellowlegs, Pectoral Sandpiper, White-rumped Sandpiper, Least Sandpiper, Common Snipe, Forster's Tern & Sora.

Returning winter residents are beginning to be reported from across the state and in good number.  Returning winter residents reported this week include:  Pied-billed Grebe, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Red-breasted Nuthatch, Winter Wren, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Golden-crowned Kinglet, Hermit Thrush, White-throated Sparrow, White-crowned Sparrow, Swamp Sparrow, Dark-eyed Junco, & Purple Finch.

Finally, Eurasian Collared-Doves were reported in the 20th Kentucky location.  This report is of a single bird in Princeton (Caldwell County) from mid-September.  The Princeton bird is located on Main Street, a few blocks from the downtown area.

September 24, 2001

Highlights of this update include: continued reports of a Tricolored Heron in Hart County, migrant passerines, raptors, and water birds, and Eurasian Collared-Doves in another new location.

A single Tricolored Heron was again reported south of Horse Cave in Hart County on September 18.  The bird was observed in the same location as previously reported in the late afternoon.  On September 19 several birders searched unsuccessfully for the Tricolored Heron, but did manage 2 bobolinks and 4 Dickcissels among other species.  While in route to search for the Heron, one observer located 8 Eurasian Collared-Doves in and just north of Cave City in Barren County.  This represents the 19th location for that species in Kentucky since its “discovery” in 1999.

A joint Kentucky Ornithological Society/Kentucky State Nature Preserves Commission field trip to Bad Branch Nature Preserve in Letcher County produced 6 species of migrant raptors on September 22.  Raptor highlights included 97 Broad-winged Hawks, 1 Peregrine Falcon, 2 Sharp-shinned Hawks, a Cooper’s hawk, and a Bald Eagle.  Other highlights of the trip were 8 Black-throated Blue Warblers, 4 Common Ravens, 6 Chimney Swifts, and 1 Ruffed Grouse.  Peregrine Falcons were also reported in Henderson County, Jefferson County, and Logan County this week.

Twenty-three species of wood warbler were observed in Jefferson County on September 15 during the fall migration count for that county.  Other highlights of the count included 1 Buff-breasted Sandpiper, 1 American Golden Plover, 1 Whip-Poor-Will, 1 Black-billed Cuckoo, 1 Yellow-breasted Sapsucker, 1 Ruby-crowned Kinglet, 1 Barn Swallow, and 3 American Pipits.

Since the last update on September 18, 19 species of wood warbler have been reported from across the state.  The most abundant species reported are American Redstart, Magnolia Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler, Ovenbird, Bay-breasted Warbler, and Tennessee Warbler.  Other wood warbler species of note include Blackburnian Warbler from several locations, Hooded Warbler in Warren County, and Golden-winged Warbler in Jefferson and Warren counties.

Meanwhile, other passerine and land bird species are migrating through the state as well.  Perhaps most noteworthy are significant numbers of Red-breasted Nuthatches and Philadelphia Vireos in several locations throughout the state as well as 3 Sedge Wrens on a farm in eastern Jefferson County.   A couple of somewhat spectacular reports include 18 Rose-breasted Grosbeaks on a single farm in Jefferson county and 10 Scarlet Tanagers in the small Western Kentucky University Woods in Warren County.  Other migrants of note include numerous Rose-breasted Grosbeaks, Red-Eyed Vireos, Blue-headed Vireos, White-eyed Vireos, Veery, Swainson’s Thrush, Wood Thrush, Eastern Wood Peewee, Yellow-billed Cuckoo and Gray Catbird reported from various locations from around the state.

Water bird migration has been highlighted by increased numbers of gulls and terns.  On September 22 and 23, a Lesser Black-backed Gull was observed at Blood River embayment on Kentucky Lake in Calloway County.  On September 19, 400+ Ring-billed gulls, 50 Forster’s Terns, 1 Common Tern and several common shorebirds including 4 Stilt Sandpipers were observed at Jonathan Creek embayment on Kentucky Lake in Marshall County.  On Lake Barkley, approximately 1,000 Double-crested Cormorants have gathered near the power poles well south of the dam in Lyon County.  An additional Common Tern, 2 Forster’s Terns, and 2 Baird’s Sandpipers were observed at the Brown Power Plant in Mercer County on September 18.  On September 21, a White-rumped Sandpiper and common shorebirds were reported at the Sloughs Wildlife Management Area in Henderson County.

On a sad note, access to locations at Barkley Dam and Kentucky Dam have been restricted, apparently for security reasons in light of recent terrorist attacks in New York and Washington.  The locks and powerhouse of Kentucky Dam are no longer accessible to visitors including birders, and the locks and the earthen dam at Barkley are now off limits as well.  Please keep this change in status in mind when planning to bird in the area.  Any change in this status will be reported as the information is received.

September 18, 2001

Highlights of this update include: a new report of a Tricolored Heron in Hart County, harbingers of winter in the form of fall migrants, migrant shorebirds, passerines, and raptors, and 2 new locations for Eurasian Collared-Doves.

A report of a single Tricolored Heron has surfaced again in Hart County at the same location as previously reported.  This appears to be the same bird that was reported earlier and is reported to be an immature.  Apparently, the bird frequents several water holes in the area, including the small pond just south of Horse Cave where it was again observed on September 17.  To
reach this location, drive 0.7 mile south of the traffic light in Horse Cave (intersection of US 31-W and KY 218) on 31-W.  The pond is on the east side of 31-W.  Easy parking on weekdays is directly across the road from the pond. On weekends there is a flea market that may limit parking.  Use caution, as the road is quite busy.

Harbingers of winter have arrived in the form of migrant species that may also be winter residents.  These include American Pipits at the Minor Clark Fish Hatchery in Rowan County, at the Falls of the Ohio in Jefferson County, and at the Paradise Ash Basin in Muhlenberg County.  Individual Red-breasted Nuthatches were found this week at the Western Kentucky University Woods in Warren County and at Tom Sawyer State Park in Jefferson County and Cedar Waxwings were observed in Pike County.  In addition, a Pine Siskin was observed at Mt Sterling and a Ruby-crowned Kinglet was seen in Jefferson County.

Twenty species of migrant wood warbler have been reported since the last update on September 12.  The warbler species reported are:  American Redstart, Yellow-throated Warbler, Magnolia Warbler, Blackburnian Warbler, Cape May Warbler, Pine Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler, Palm Warbler, Tennessee Warbler, Hooded Warbler, Mourning Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Nashville Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Prairie Warbler, Black-and-White Warbler, Wilson's Warbler, Golden-winged Warbler, Ovenbird & Connecticut Warbler.  Warblers have been reported from Jefferson, Pike, Logan, Warren, & Carlisle counties.

Other passerine and land bird species are also in the process of migration. On September 13, over 100 Chimney Swifts were observed at the Falls of the Ohio and a Black-billed Cuckoo was noted in another Jefferson County location.  Other species reported since the last update include Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Summer Tanager, Scarlet Tanager, Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Red-eyed, White-eyed, Philadelphia, Yellow-throated and Blue-headed Vireo, Swainson's Thrush, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, Gray Catbird, Least Flycatcher, Eastern Kingbird, Barn Swallow, Bank Swallow, & Tree Swallow.

Sixteen species of shorebirds have been reported this week including an Upland Sandpiper at Kentucky Bend in Fulton County.  3 Black-bellied Plovers were also present at this location.  Other species of shorebird reported this week include highlights include a White-rumped Sandpiper and a Baird's Sandpiper at the Minor Clark Fish Hatchery, an American Golden Plover and a Buff-breasted Sandpiper at the Falls of the Ohio, a Stilt Sandpiper at the Paradise Ash Basin in Muhlenberg County, and 6 Buff-breasted Sandpipers and 2 Western Sandpipers at the Island # 1 sandbar complex in Carlisle County.
Other shorebird species reported this week include Least Sandpiper, Semipalmated Sandpiper, Pectoral Sandpiper, Sanderling, Spotted Sandpiper, and Semipalmated Plover.  Other locations reporting shorebirds include Fishing Creek in Pulaski County, Jonathan Creek Embayment in Marshall County and Lake # 9 in Fulton County.

Raptor migrants have joined the ranks of other birds and were reported in large numbers this week.  Single Peregrine Falcons were reported at Minor Clark Fish Hatchery, Fishing Creek, Island # 1, and the Falls of the Ohio. Ospreys were reported in small numbers around the state including Drakes Creek in Simpson County, Rough River Dam and on the Boone County Fall
Migration Count.  The Boone County Migration count also produced Red-tailed Hawk, Red-shouldered Hawk, Cooper's Hawk, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Broad-winged Hawk, and American Kestrel.  Spotters on Pine Mountain counted 972
Broad-winged Hawks in a 3-day period this week and a Merlin was observed at Kentucky Bend.

Eurasian Collared-Doves were located in 2 new locations.  The new locations should have been expected as they were near the first 2 locations for this invasive species.  On September 15, 5 Eurasian Collared-Doves were observed in the town of Clinton in Hickman County.  Clinton is about 15 miles from the first Kentucky report in 1999 in the town of Hickman in Fulton County. On September 16, 3 Eurasian Collared-Doves were located in Cunningham in northeastern Carlisle County.  This location as about 10 miles from La Center in Ballard County, the second location in which the species was confirmed in 1999.  This brings the total number of confirmed locations for Kentucky's newest invader to 18.  All but one of these observations are in counties along or east of Interstate 65.

September 12, 2001

Highlights of this update include: a Ruff at Island # 1 on the Mississippi River, a reported Tricolored Heron in Hart County, an Eared Grebe at Barren River Reservoir, plus Wilson’s Phalarope, Buff-breasted Sandpiper, Baird’s Sandpiper, and migrant passerines.

A juvenile Ruff was observed on September 7 at the north end of the Island # 1/Laketon sandbar complex.  The bird flew that day but returned on September 8 and was relocated by observers.  It remained into the late afternoon of September 8. There have been no further reports since that time.

A report of a Tricolored Heron was made on September 10 at a pond off US 31W, just south of Cave City in Hart County.  Later information indicates that the bird may have been present at this small pond since August 31.  The Tricolored Heron has not been observed since the date of the report.

An Eared Grebe was observed on Barren River Reservoir in Barren County on September 4.  The bird was located near the Bailey’s Point area of the lake.  There have been no further reports.

Several reports have been made from the Falls of the Ohio in Jefferson County.  Highlights of these reports include 1 Wilson’s Phalarope on September 11, 2 American Golden Plovers on September 9, 2 Buff-breasted Sandpipers on September 6, as well as 8 common shorebird species.  Additional highlights from the “Falls” include 31 Black-crowned Night-Herons, 15 Caspian Terns, and a single Peregrine Falcon.  Other shorebird highlights include 1 Baird’s Sandpiper in Pulaski County and 5 of the same at the Paradise Ash Basin in Muhlenberg County, an American Golden Plover at the Westvaco moist soils unit, and a Willet below Smithland Dam.

23 species of warblers have been reported since the last update.  Numbers of Magnolia Warbler, Black-and-White Warbler, American Redstart, Chestnut-sided Warbler, and Tennessee Warblers are now quite high across the state.  Other warbler highlights include Golden-winged Warblers in Warren and Edmonson Counties, Canada Warblers in Warren and Pulaski Counties, Northern Waterthrush in Jefferson County, and Mourning Warbler in Warren County.  Other passerine highlights include 4 Veery, 8 Swainson’s Thrush, over 20 Scarlet Tanagers, and a Yellow-bellied Flycatcher at Mammoth Cave National Park, an Olive-sided Flycatcher and 2 Rose-breasted Grosbeaks in Pulaski County and a Red-eyed Vireo in Jefferson County.  Blue-gray Gnatcatchers are currently common to abundant in most areas of the state.

Other bird notes of interest include the second ever report of Eurasian Collared Dove in Bowling Green.  This record was again of a single bird, and the first since June 1999.  Cattle Egrets have been observed in large flocks of 200 – 400 birds in pastures in Calloway and Livingston counties, and both Merlin and Broad-winged Hawk have been observed during the week.

September 7, 2001

The highlight of this update is a Ruff.

A single juvenile Ruff was observed this afternoon at the Island #1/Laketon Sandbar complex in Carlisle County.  The location
appears to be the northernmost access point to the sandbar complex and will require considerable walking along the riverbank
north from the dirt lane used to access the Mississippi River.

To reach this location from Laketon, proceed north on the gravel road just inland from the boat ramp until you reach a split in
the road with one branch proceeding straight ahead and one branch turning to the right.  On your left is a dirt lane that goes to
the river.  Take this dirt land to the left lane and curve right following it along the bank of the river until it ends.  Then walk up
the riverbank until you can access the sandbars near the wooded island searching for shorebirds in the wet sand areas.

The Ruff was in the company of a flock of shorebirds that flew away near the end of the observation.  It is possible the bird will
return tomorrow or at a later time.

September 4, 2001

Highlights of this update include: and Eared Grebe in Union County, wood warblers and other passerine migrants, and migrating shorebirds.

An Eared Grebe was located in an inaccessible mining area of Union County on September 1st.  Also present in the same
vicinity were 16 Buff-breasted Sandpipers.

Passerine migration has begun to pick up in advance of a probable peak on approximately 2-3 weeks.  Several species of
warblers have been reported from numerous counties including Jefferson, Pike, Fulton, Warren, and others.  Species of
warblers reported this week include:  Palm Warbler, Cape May Warbler, American Redstart, Yellow-throated Warbler,
Blue-winged Warbler, Hooded Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Prothonotary Warbler, Tennessee Warbler, Chestnut-sided
Warbler, Black-and-White Warbler, Magnolia Warbler, Ovenbird, Wilson’s Warbler, Northern Parula, Blackburnian
Warbler, Pine Warbler, Nashville Warbler, Golden-winged Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler, Canada Warbler, Yellow
Warbler, Yellow-breasted Chat, Worm-eating Warbler, Bay-breasted Warbler, Prairie Warbler & Kentucky Warbler.

Other passerines reported from across the state include Baltimore Oriole, Barn Swallow, Northern Rough-winged Swallow,
Bank Swallow, Cliff Swallow, Tree Swallow, Olive-sided Flycatcher, Least Flycatcher, Alder Flycatcher, Willow Flycatcher,
Blue-gray gnatcatcher, Bell’s Vireo, Yellow-throated Vireo, Red-eyed Vireo, Philadelphia Vireo, and Bobolinks.

Just as shorebird migration approaches its peak, habitat remains scarce in Kentucky.  Jonathan Creek, Blood River and other
embayments on Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley are largely under water.  Habitat exists on the Mississippi River, but not to
the same degree as is usual for this time of year.  The drought of recent years has impacted habitat negatively and management
practices at the Ballard WMA have resulted in the loss of habitat at Mitchell Lake.  Despite this diminished habitat, many
species of shorebirds were observed over the past week.  Highlights of these observations include the Buff-breasted
Sandpipers previously mentioned, 6 Baird’s Sandpipers at the Peabody Ash Basin, a Ruddy Turnstone at the Island #
1/Laketon Sandbar complex, a Willet at the Brown Power Plant Ash Basin, 5 Black-necked Stilts, 4 Short-billed Dowitchers,
1 Western Sandpiper, & 2 Wilson’s Phalaropes at Lake $ 9, and several common species in Daviess County, at the Falls of
the Ohio, and at Blood River Embayment.

Waterfowl numbers are beginning to build in some areas.  500+ Blue-winged Teal were observed at Lake # 9, and Northern
Shovelers, Green-winged Teal, Wood Ducks, and Mallards, were all reported from several locations this week.

Other reports of interest include 50 American White Pelicans at Island # 8 in Fulton County, 75 Caspian Terns at various
locations on Lake Barkley, a Sora in Jefferson County, Common Nighthawks in large numbers across the state, a Laughing
Gull at Kentucky Dam, and Forster’s Terns at Jonathan Creek.

August 27, 2001

Highlights of this update include: the continued presence of Black-necked Stilts at Lake # 9, 2 Olive-sided Flycatchers, building numbers of shorebird migrants, and early migrant wood warblers.

5 Black-necked Stilts were observed at lake # 9 in Fulton County on August 25 and again on August 26.  The 5 birds consist
of 2 adults and 3 immature individuals and are apparently the same individuals reported last weekend.  Other shorebird species
recorded at Lake # 9 over the weekend include:

• 1 Piping Plover flyover recorded on August 26,
• 100+ Least Sandpipers,
• 100+ Pectoral Sandpipers,
• 50+ Lesser Yellowlegs,
• 50+ Semipalmated Sandpipers,
• 20+ Semipalmated Plovers,
• 25+ Stilt Sandpipers, &
• 14 Short-billed Dowitchers.

Two additional areas in western Kentucky hosted good numbers of shorebirds this weekend.  Perhaps the largest single
accumulation is at the south end of the Island # 1 sandbars in Carlisle.  Species recorded here include:  2 American Golden
Plovers, 1 Common Snipe, 125+ Pectoral Sandpipers, 150+ Least Sandpipers, 100 Semipalmated Sandpipers, 8 Baird’s
Sandpipers, 18 Stilt Sandpipers, 8 Buff-breasted Sandpipers, 5 Short-billed Dowitchers, 5 Western Sandpipers and 7
Sanderlings.

The other area with good numbers of shorebirds is the Westvaco Moist Soils Unit in Hickman County were 350+ individuals
composed of mostly Least and Pectoral Sandpipers were present.  Other species observed at Westvaco include Lesser
Yellowlegs, Greater Yellowlegs, Semipalmated Sandpiper, Solitary Sandpiper, & Stilt Sandpiper.

Rounding out reports of shorebirds for this week are 2 Upland Sandpipers, 3 Buff-breasted Sandpipers, and 2 Common Snipe
at a private Union County location, 1 Black-bellied Plover at cottonwood bar near Ledbetter in Livingston County, 1
Buff-breasted Sandpiper and small numbers 6 additional species of shorebirds at the Falls of the Ohio in Jefferson County, and
1 Short-billed Dowitcher and small numbers of 4 additional species of shorebirds at the Minor Clark Fish Hatchery in Rowan
County.

Other birds of note from the Falls of the Ohio include 50+ Black-crowned Night-Herons, 1 Osprey, & 10 – 12 Caspian
Terns.  Additional species reported from Westvaco WMA include 4 Mississippi Kites, 2 Northern Shovelers, 14 Least Terns,
and small numbers of Fish Crows.

Two Olive-sided Flycatchers were observed in Western Kentucky this weekend.  The first report was on August 25 in
Hickman County between Columbus and the Westvaco WMA.  The second report was from Fulton County at the pump
station along the levee between Lake # 9 and Island # 8 Slough.  Least Flycatcher, Acadian Flycatcher, Willow Flycatcher,
and Alder Flycatcher were also observed at various locations in western Kentucky on August 25 and 26.

The Western Kentucky University Woods, southwest of Bowling Green in Warren County, hosted 7 species of wood
warblers.  Observed on August 26 were:  1 Blue-winged Warbler, 1 Golden-winged Warbler, 3 Chestnut-sided Warblers, 2
Magnolia Warblers, 5 Black-and-White Warblers, 1 American Redstart, & 1 Wilson's Warbler.  Other passerine species
observed there included 4 Baltimore Orioles, 1 Warbling Vireo, and 3 Ruby-throated Hummingbirds.

A count of Osprey nests and individuals on reported on August 22 at Lake Barkley, including Honker Bay produced 34 nests
and 89 individual birds.  46 of the individuals were adults and the others were all immature at various stages of development.
85 Caspian Terns were counted on Lake Barkley on the same date.

Other birds of interest reported within the last week include several Least Terns from many locations along the Ohio and
Mississippi Rivers, several Fish Crows in Hickman, Carlisle, and Fulton Counties, 2 Laughing Gulls at Smithland in Livingston
County, an Osprey at the Minor Clark Fish Hatchery, 1 Cooper’s Hawk at Westvaco WMA and another at the Western
Kentucky University Woods.
 

August 21, 2001

Highlights of this update include: Black-necked Stilt, Buff-breasted Sandpiper, Baird’s Sandpiper, Sanderling, other shorebird
migrants and the first reports of fall migrant passerines.

• 2 Black-necked Stilts were observed at Lake Number 9 in Fulton County on August 19.  One of the birds was an adult and the other was a juvenile.  Other species observed there included:  1 Buff-breasted Sandpiper in an adjacent soybean field, 75 Blue-winged Teal, 3 Green-winged Teal, 7 Stilt Sandpipers, 2 Short-billed Dowitchers and common shorebird species.
• 2 Buff-breasted Sandpipers were also observed at Laketon/Island Number 1 sandbar complex on the Mississippi River in Carlisle County on August 19.  Other species of note observed at the same location included 1 Sanderling, 1 American Golden Plover, and unspecified numbers of Least Sandpiper, Pectoral Sandpiper, Least Tern, and Black Tern.  Westvaco was reported to contain approximately 10 species of common shorebirds and a Peregrine Falcon on the same date.
• Baird’s Sandpipers were reported from at least 3 locations since the last update.  On August 18, 1 Baird’s, 6 Stilt Sandpipers, and a Willet were observed on a Peabody Coal Facility in Union County.  On August 16, 1 Baird’s Sandpiper, 12 Stilt Sandpipers, and 6 species of common shorebird were observed at Meng Pond in Warren County.  On August 18, 1 Baird’s Sandpiper and 5 additional species of shorebird were observed at the Brown Power Plant Ash Basin in Mercer County.

Migrating passerines have been reported from at least 4 counties.  On August 18, 2 Northern Parulas, 3 Black-and-White
Warblers, and 1 Hooded Warbler were located in the Western Kentucky University Woods in Warren County.  On August 20, an
American Redstart, 1 Hooded Warbler, and 1 Nashville Warbler were observed in Jefferson County.  Other migrants or probable
migrants include a Blue-winged Warbler in Harrison County and a Savannah Sparrow in Union County.

Other birds of interest reported since the last update include 2 Laughing Gulls at Kentucky Dam (Livingston/Marshall counties), 2
Henslow’s Sparrows in the Sinclair Unit of the Peabody Wildlife Management Area (Muhlenberg County), Henslow’s Sparrows
and Blue Grosbeaks in Pulaski County, and Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Yellow-throated Warbler, Red-eyed Vireo, and Scarlet Tanager in Pike County.

August 16, 2001

Highlights of this update include: a Wilson’s Phalarope at Lake Number 9, other migrant shorebirds, and waders of various
species.

A Wilson’s Phalarope was observed in the presence of several other shorebirds at Lake Number 9 in Fulton County on August
12th.  Also observed at that time were 5 Blue-winged Teal, 40 Lesser Yellowlegs, 30 Semipalmated Sandpipers, 10 Least
Sandpipers, 5 Pectoral Sandpipers, 5 Semipalmated Plovers, 2 Greater Yellowlegs, 2 Spotted Sandpipers, and 7 Stilt Sandpipers.
Waders were also present at the lake including several Great Blue Herons, about 10 Great Egrets, 30 Little Blue Herons, & 4
Snowy Egrets.

Cairo Sough also hosted several shorebirds on August 12th.  Present there were 23 Least Sandpipers, 26 Semipalmated
Sandpipers, 1 Stilt Sandpiper, 3 Semipalmated Plovers, 2 Solitary Sandpipers, and 5 Great Egrets.  On the same date, 25 Little Blue
Herons were present a Blango Slough in Ballard County and 25 Great Egrets and 4 Snowy Egrets were present on the waterfront
at Hickman in Fulton County.

The Paradise Ash Basin yielded only 2 species of shorebirds on August 15th, about 30 Least Sandpipers and about 30
Semipalmated Sandpipers.

Eurasian Collared-Doves were reported at 4 locations this week.  5 individuals were reported throughout the week at Russellville,
4 at Hickman and 3 in La Center on August 12th, and 1 at Gold City on August 13th.

Other birds of note included Mississippi Kites and Fish Crows in Ballard and Carlisle counties, Least Terns in Ballard, Livingston,
Carlisle, and Fulton counties, and Henslow’s Sparrows at the Peabody WMA.  3 were located on August 11th in Ohio County on
the Hopewell Unit and 5 were observed in Muhlenberg County on the Sinclair Unit on August 12th.

August 9, 2001

Highlights of this update include: a brief visit to Warren County by an American White Pelican, a Willet in Mercer County, and fall migrant shorebirds.

An American White Pelican made a brief visit to a farm pond along the Meng Road in Warren County on Augusts 1st and 2nd.
The bird is no longer in the area.  Meng Road is near the currently dry transient lake, McElroy Lake, near Woodburn.

Shorebirds have been reported in small numbers throughout the state over the past week.  Reports of shorebirds include the
following:

• On August 3rd, the Brown Power Plant Ash Basin/Pond was host to 1 Willet, 1 Spotted Sandpiper, 7 Black Terns, 1 Double-crested Cormorant, a Ruddy Duck and 2 species of common waders.  On the same date, Clifty Pond in Pulaski County hosted 7 Solitary Sandpipers and 3 Spotted Sandpipers.  4 Henslow’s Sparrows were also reported from Pulaski     County in August 1st.
• The Ash Basin at the Paradise Steam Plant in Muhlenberg County has also produced a few shorebirds and other species.  On August 5th, 11 Semipalmated Sandpipers, 5 Least Sandpipers, and 1 Greater Yellowlegs were present.  10    Double-crested Cormorants were also observed on the adjacent lake.  On August 3rd, the Ash Basin produced 20+ Least Sandpipers, 25 Semipalmated Sandpipers, 2 Stilt Sandpipers, and 4 Caspian Terns.
• Lake Number 9 in Fulton County currently contains water.  On August 3rd, a total of about 100 shorebirds were observed there included this following species:  Least Sandpiper, Semipalmated Sandpiper, Pectoral Sandpiper, Lesser Yellowlegs,    Greater Yellowlegs, and Semipalmated Plover.  Scattered waders including Little Blue Herons, Snowy Egrets, and Black-crowned Night-Herons along with about 20 Mississippi Kites were also present at various locations in Fulton, Carlisle, & Hickman counties.
• At Cairo Slough in Ballard County, about 90 – 100 Shorebirds were present on August 4th.  Species comprising the mix included Semipalmated Plover, Least Sandpiper, Semipalmated Sandpiper, Pectoral Sandpiper, Solitary Sandpiper, Spotted Sandpiper,  & Lesser and Greater Yellowlegs.  Other birds reported from various locations in west Kentucky on that date  included Fish Crows and Least Terns at scattered locations.  Highlights of the Least Terns reported include 22 at Cairo Sough, 12 at Chalk Bluff bar in Hickman County, and 18+ at the Wesvaco WMA in Hickman & Carlisle counties.

The Swallow-tailed Kite reported from the Central Kentucky Wildlife Management Area on July 31st, has not been re-located and is presumed to have moved on to another location.

August 1, 2001

Highlights of this update include: a SWALLOW-TAILED KITE in Madison County and returning shorebird migrants.

A SWALLOW-TAILED KITE was observed in the Central Kentucky Wildlife Management Area, on July 31st at about
10:30 AM EDT.  The Kite was spotted flying over southern end of Wildlife Management Area by the property border where
Muddy Creek Road leaves the Management Area.  Right before Muddy Creek Road leaves the management area there is a
gravel road on the right that takes you to a barn.  Before you get to the barn there is a large field on your left.  This is the field
the Kite was spotted in.  The kite proceeded to fly to the north.  AN AFTERNOON ATTEMPT TO RELOCATE THE
KITE FAILED. No further information is available at this time, HOWEVER, THE KITE COULD STILL BE IN THE AREA.

To get to the area where the Kite was observed, follow these directions: Take exit 87 east (Richmond) off of Interstate 75 onto
KY 876 and drive 2.8 miles to US 421/25 (Kroger will be on your right).  Turn right onto   US 421/25 and travel 3.5 miles to
the split of 421/25.  Bear left onto US 421 and drive 3.2 miles to Dreyfus Road. Turn left onto Dreyfus road.   After you pass
the CKWMA office (On your right) you will turn right at the stop sign just past the office onto Muddy Creek Road.  Do not
curve to the left after the CKWMA office.  If you do you will miss the stop sign.  On Muddy Creek Road you will pass two
small grass/dirt parking areas on your right.  The next area you can turn into on your right will be a gravel road.  Turn right onto
the gravel road and follow the road till you reach a tobacco barn.  The field on your left when you are on the gravel road is
where the Kite was observed.

ANYONE SPOTTING THE SWALLOW-TAILED KITE should promptly report an update to the Kentucky Bird Line
and/or post update information on “birdky”.  Information on failed attempts to spot the Kite would also be helpful.  Any
documentation of observations should be sent to the Kentucky Bird Records Committee.

Fall Shorebird migration has begun in Kentucky with several observations of common species, mostly in small numbers.
Shorebirds have been observed at the Paradise Steam Plant Ash Basin in Muhlenberg County on a variety of dates.  A
summary of observations is below:

• On July 29th, 4 Stilt Sandpipers, approximately 20 Least Sandpipers, approximately 10 Semipalmated Sandpipers, 3 Pectoral Sandpipers, & 2 Semipalmated Plovers were observed,
• On July 26th, 27 Least Sandpipers, 8 Semipalmated Sandpipers, 2 Stilt Sandpipers, 1 Pectoral Sandpiper, 2 Spotted Sandpipers & , 1 Short-billed Dowitcher were seen., and
• On July 16th, 13 Least Sandpipers, 1 Pectoral Sandpiper, & 2 Lesser Yellowlegs were observed.

Other species of note reported recently included Least Bitterns, Henslow’s Sparrows, Bell’s Vireos, Mississippi Kites, and
Northern Harriers, at the Peabody Wildlife Management Area, Great Egrets, and Snowy Egrets from Fulton County, Caspian,
Forster’s, and Least Terns from Smithland Dam in Livingston County and numerous species of warblers and passerines from
across the state.

1 – 2 Eurasian Collared Doves were located in yet another new location on July 21st when the species was located at Dot, in
South Central Logan County.  These birds were found in a strictly agricultural setting, and not near in a small town or city as
has been the case with most other sightings.  It is obvious that the Eurasian Collared-Dove is spreading rapidly across the
western third of the state and is becoming established throughout that area.  Reports of new locations of Eurasian
Collared-Doves should be reported to the bird line.

July 9, 2001

The highlights of this update are: a Least Flycatcher on Big Black Mountain, the continued presence of Least Bitterns in
Muhlenberg County, a Eurasian Collared-Dove near Corbin, and Least Terns and wading species at several locations.

Big Black Mountain, the highest peak in Kentucky, produced a single Least Flycatcher at the summit on June 7th.  At over
4,000 ft. in elevation Big Black Mountain hosts several species of summering birds that are unknown to very rare in other
locations.  Also observed on the Mountain were 3 Rose-breasted Grosbeaks, 6 Veeries, several Dark-eyed Juncos including
fledglings, and unspecified numbers of Blue-headed Vireos and Black-throated Blue Warblers.  A Common Raven was also
heard on the Mountain on both July 6th and 7th.

Least Bitterns were again located at Sinclair Lake (henceforth to be called “H & R Haul Road Lake”) on July 7th in the Sinclair
Unit of the Peabody WMA.  Directions to the site were posted on the July 4th update and are available on the KOS web site.
Again, fledglings and adult Least Bitterns were observed.

A single Eurasian Collared-Dove was observed on July 6th just east of Corbin on US highway 25E.  The exact location is not
clear, but the bird was seen east of Corbin and west of Gray, in Knox County.  This is by far the eastern most record of
Eurasian Collared-Dove in Kentucky.  Prior to this record, the only other record east of Interstate 65 was in Simpson County,
at least 120 miles to the west.

Least Terns, a variety of wading birds, and a few shorebirds have been reported from a variety of locations.  A summary of
these observations is below:

• 5 Least Terns were observed at Smithland in Livingston County on July 7th and 6 at Swan Lake in Ballard County on July 9th,
• 20 Least Sandpipers were observed at the Paradise Ash Basin on June 20th with 10 remaining on July 9th and 2 others were seen at Obion Creek WMA in Fulton County on July 4th.
• 1 Spotted Sandpiper, 1 Solitary Sandpiper, 65 Great Egrets, and 1 Snowy Egret were observed at Obion Creek WMA on July 4th,
• 6 Little Blue Herons, 2 Great Egrets, were seen at Kuttawa in Lyon County on July 7th, 2 Great Egrets were observed in Warren County on July 8th and good numbers of Great Egrets were at Swan Lake on July 9th.

July 4, 2001

The highlight of this update is the presence of Least Bitterns in Muhlenberg County.

On June 20th, 6 Least Bitterns, including 2 fledglings, were observed at Sinclair Lake within the Sinclair Unit of the Peabody
Wildlife Management Area in Muhlenberg County.  This location has previously hosted nesting Least Bitterns.  The lake is on
the northeast side of KY 176 that runs through the Management Area and may be accessed by following these directions.
Take KY 176 northeast from Drakesboro past Goose Lake on the right.  Just past Goose Lake, turn right onto a coal haul
road and then make 2 quick lefts and cross over KY 176.  Proceed on this haul road until you approach a significant wooden
bridge.  Take the left gravel/dirt drive just preceding the bridge.  From the end of this short road, you can scan the lake.
However, in order to reach the Bitterns, you must have a canoe and you must be willing to navigate through an area of thick
cattails.  A permit is required to enter the Peabody Wildlife Management Area.

On June 22nd, Least Tern nest sites were examined by state personnel and found to contain birds, despite the high river levels.
These sites are on various sandbars in the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers.  Various heron/egret rookeries were also observed on
that date.

Purple Martins are reported to have begun staging in the Blood River area of Calloway County in preparation for their journey
south.  Swallows of various species should begin to build in numbers over the coming weeks in areas close to abundant food
supplies, particularly near bodies of water.  Large numbers of swallows of various species should continue to build into August.

June 27, 2001

Highlights of this update are reports of common summer residents.

Perhaps the most interesting report is that of 12 Cedar Waxwings on a BBS route run on June 9th in Daviess & Ohio
Counties.  It is presumed that this represents a total from several stops as more specific information was lacking.  On June 13th,
another BBS route in Monroe and Cumberland Counties produced 34 Red-eyed Vireos and 8 Acadian Flycatchers.

A report from Peabody WMA in Muhlenberg and Ohio Counties produced 5 Northern Harriers and unspecified numbers of
Henslow’s Sparrows, Bell’s Vireos, Willow Flycatchers, as well as a single White-rumped Sandpiper at the Paradise Ash
Basin on June 17th.  Another birder reported unspecified numbers of Yellow-breasted Chats, Prairie Warblers, Kentucky
Warblers, Prothonotary Warblers, Orchard Orioles, Blue Grosbeaks, Red-shouldered Hawks, Cooper’s Hawks, and
Red-eyed, White-eyed, Warbling, and Yellow-throated Vireos from various locations in Barren County on June 21st.  On the
same date, fledgling Blue Grosbeaks were reported from Harrison County.

On June 17th, Yellow-throated Warblers were reported singing in Pike County and a single Ovenbird was also noted.  On
June 27th, at Natural Bridge State Park, a single Northern Parula and Black-and-White Warbler were noted, as were several
Black-throated Green Warblers.

June 16, 2001

The highlights of this update are a late report of a Common Moorhen at Minor Clark Fish Hatchery, a Bewick’s Wren in
Warren County, Swainson’s Warblers in 2 counties, and reports from Breeding Bird Surveys and summer residents from
across the state.

A Common Moorhen was belatedly reported from the Minor Clark Fish Hatchery in the area of the Oxbow Lake on May
23rd.  Further details of this report and not available.  A single Bewick’s Wren was observed in rural northern Warren County
on June 1.  A few Henslow’s Sparrows were also observed nearby on the same day in a hay field.  4 (2 pair) of Swainson’s
Warblers were observed at Bad Branch Nature Preserve on June 8th.  Other birds observed in the Preserve included 5
Black-throated Blue Warblers and several of the following species: Hooded Warblers, Worm-eating Warblers,
Black-and-White Warblers, Ovenbirds, Black-throated Green Warblers, and Blue-headed Vireos.  Bad Branch Nature
Preserve is located in eastern Kentucky in Letcher County.  At least 1 Swainson’s Warbler and a Chestnut-sided Warbler
were located on a Breeding Bird Survey route in McCreary County on June 11th.

2 Breeding Bird Surveys in Mammoth Cave National Park combined to produce impressive numbers of several interesting
forest passerines last week.  Totals from the routes included 54 Red-eyed Vireos, 50 Scarlet Tanagers, 48 Kentucky
Warblers, 46 Wood Thrushes, 29 Ovenbirds, and 9 Worm-eating Warblers.  Another Breeding Bird survey in
Whitley/McCreary Counties produced 2 Song Sparrows, 1 Pine Warbler, 18 Cerulean Warblers, and 2 Blue-headed Vireos.

Interesting reports from Pike County on June 14th and June 8th include observations of fledging Vesper Sparrows, Savannah
Sparrows, and Ruffed Grouse.  Other species reported in Pike County include unspecified numbers of Cerulean Warblers,
Blue-winged Warblers, Black-and-White Warblers, Ovenbirds, American Redstarts, Scarlet Tanagers, Baltimore Orioles,
Wood Thrushes, and a Willow Flycatcher.

Other birds of interest reported since the last update on June 4th include:

• 1 Little Blue Heron on Honker Bay in the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area,
• An Acadian Flycatcher and nest in Pulaski County,
• A Peregrine Falcon and now empty nest on the Irontown Bridge over the Ohio River in Boyde County,
• A Black-Crowned Night-Heron at Yatesville Lake in Lawrence County,
• Unspecified numbers of Henslow’s Sparrows in northern Christian County,
• And 1 Eurasian Collared-Dove just north of the Country Club in Russellville, Logan County.

June 4, 2001

The highlight of this update is a Black-necked Stilt in Fayette County.

A Black-necked Stilt was found on the morning of June 3rd at the University of Kentucky’s Spindletop Farm on the north side of Lexington in Fayette County.  The bird was relocated the morning of June 4th, but was not found in the afternoon.  The Stilt could still be present in the area.  For directions to try to find the Black-necked Stilt, contact Jim Williams at williamsjm@aol.com or at 859-269-3915.

Reports of straggling migrants this week were few in number.   A single Snow Goose was reported at Basil Griffin Park in
Bowling Green, Warren County, on June 1st, a Pine Siskin was reported on May 29th in Murray, Calloway County, and Vesper and Savannah Sparrows in were reported in Pike County on June 4th.

All other reports this week have been of summer residents.  Some highlights of those reports include 2 Eurasian Collared Doves in Trenton, Todd County and 2 Cattle Egrets and a single Hooded Warbler in rural Todd County.  Several species of woodland passerines have also been reported from Pike County including Scarlet Tanager, Magnolia Warbler, American Redstart, Cerulean Warbler and many others.

May 28, 2001

Highlights of this update include: a possible King Rail, Nelson’s Sharp-tailed Sparrow, Connecticut Warbler, and late spring
migrants.

The highlight of a KOS/BBC field trip to Western Kentucky was a possible King Rail located on the Long Point Unit of the
Reelfoot Wildlife Refuge in Fulton County on May 26th.  Other species observed in the area included several Mississippi Kites,
Loggerhead Shrikes, and numerous Dickcissels.  Other highlights of the trip included 8 Franklin’s Gulls & 2 Laughing Gulls at
Kentucky Dam and 6 species of shorebirds at the Paradise Ash Basin in Muhlenberg County.  Species observed at the Ash Basin included 1 Black-bellied Plover, 4 Semipalmated Plovers, 38 White-rumped Sandpipers, several Semipalmated Sandpipers, and 2 Least and Pectoral Sandpipers.  Smaller numbers of most of the same species plus 2 Spotted Sandpipers were observed on May 28th at the Paradise Ash Basin.

A rare spring observation of a Nelson’s Sharp-tailed Sparrow at the River Queen Unit of the Peabody Wildlife Management Area in Muhlenberg County occurred on May 27th.  Further details of this observation are not available at this time.  On May 28th, the Sinclair Unit of the Peabody Wildlife Management Area yielded 14 Bell’s Vireos, 4 Willow Flycatchers, 4 Henslow’s Sparrows, and 1 Northern Harrier.  Most of these individuals were located along road S-5.

Connecticut Warblers were reported in 2 locations this week.  On May 23rd, 2 birds were observed in Jefferson County and on May 25th, a single male was seen in Warren County.  A late Magnolia Warbler in Pike County and a similarly late American
Redstart in Lexington, round out the migrant warblers reported for the week.  A Least Flycatcher was also observed in Lexington on the same date.

Finally, the Brown Power Plant Ash Basin produced 1 Least Tern, 16 Black Terns, & 2 Caspian Terns on May 22.

May 21, 2001

Highlights of this update include reports of late spring migrants and Swainson’s Warblers in Pulaski County and at Breaks
Interstate Park.

Passerine migration is essentially over and shorebird migration is well past peak.  Since the last update most reports of migrants
have been of late species of warblers, flycatchers, and shorebirds.

Birds reported from the Falls of the Ohio in Jefferson County on May 17th and May 18th include 1 Common Loon, 10-12
Semipalmated Plovers, 1 Black-bellied Plover, 10 Least Sandpipers, 3 Rudy Turnstones, 3 Semipalmated Sandpipers, 4 Spotted Sandpipers 1 Franklin’s Gull, 2 Forster’s Terns, 1 Caspian Tern, 1 Least Flycatcher, and 1 Blackpoll Warbler.  Other birds reported in Jefferson County this week include Alder Flycatcher, Mourning Warbler, Canada Warbler, Magnolia Warbler, Bay-breasted Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Wilson’s Warbler, Connecticut Warbler, Philadelphia Vireo, Yellow-bellied Flycatcher, Golden-winged Warbler, Cape May Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler, American Redstart, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, and Swainson’s Thrush.

On May 18th, the Paradise Steam Plant Ash Basin in Muhlenberg County yielded unspecified numbers of Semipalmated Plovers, Semipalmated Sandpipers, and Least Sandpipers as well as 1 White-rumped Sandpiper, 1 Spotted Sandpiper, and a Snowy Egret. Further east in Mercer County, the E. W. Brown Ash Basin produced approximately 10 Semipalmated Sandpipers, 10 Semipalmated Plovers, 3 Least Sandpipers, & 2 White-rumped Sandpipers.

On May 19th, 11 species of shorebirds were observed in a single “wet spot” in Fulton County including Black-bellied Plovers,
Dunlin, and Short-billed Dowitchers.  It is likely that this location is now dry and, unfortunately, the Falls of the Ohio are now
covered by water from the rising Ohio River.

Several species of migrants were also reported from Lexington’s McConnell Springs on May 8th.  Species observed there include Philadelphia Vireo, Blue-headed Vireo, Canada Warbler, Bay-breasted Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Magnolia Warbler, Hooded Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler, Swainson’s Thrush, Veery, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, and Least Flycatcher.

The spring migration count in Pulaski County on May 12th produced some excellent finds.  Some of the more exciting birds were 8 Swainson’s Warblers, 2 Mourning Warblers, and unspecified numbers of Henslow’s Sparrows and Savannah Sparrows.  A Savannah Sparrow was also reported in Logan County on May 11th.  White-throated Sparrows were reported in Lexington on May 8th and in Louisville on May 19th.

On May 20th, the Eastern Kentucky Bird Club meeting at the Breaks Interstate Park that straddles the Kentucky/Virginia state
line produced 14 species of warblers including the elusive Swainson’s Warbler.

Other birds of note reported since the last update include 1 Little Blue Heron at Yatesville Lake in Lawrence County, Peregrine
Falcons in Lexington and Greenup County, and 1 Eurasian-collared Dove at Gold City in Simpson County.

May 8, 2001

Highlights of this update include: American Avocet and Willets at Kentucky Dam, American Bittern and Virginia Rail at Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge, and the arrival of migrant warblers and other species.

A single American Avocet was observed on the beach above Kentucky Dam on approximately May 5th.  The bird has not been relocated.  Other recent highlights from Kentucky Dam include 5 Willets flying over on May 7, a Common Merganser lingering around the marina, 3 Laughing Gulls on May 5, and unspecified numbers of Fish Crows on several dates.

A single American Bittern and a single Virginia Rail were each observed at the Long Point Unit of the Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge in Fulton County on May 5th.  Other birds of interest in the general area include the presence of Mississippi Kites on May 4th and 5th, and 16 Black-bellied Plovers on May 5th.

Migrant warblers have finally begun to arrive in numbers and shorebird migration continues across the state.  At least 12 species of shorebirds and 27 species of warblers have been located since May 4th.  Recent observations of warblers and other passerine species that are primarily migrants in the state include:

• Blackpoll Warblers in Kenton, Muhlenberg, & Jefferson Counties, as well as the LBL,
• Cape May Warblers Elliott, Jefferson, & Fayette Counties, as well as the LBL,
• Tennessee Warblers in Jefferson, Calloway, Muhlenberg Counties, as well as in the LBL,
• Northern Waterthrushes in Jefferson & Calloway Counties as well as in the LBL,
• Nashville Warblers, in Jefferson County & Fayette Counties as well as in the LBL,
• Chestnut-sided Warblers in Calloway and Fayette Counties as well as in the LBL,
• Blackburnian Warblers in the LBL,
• Bay-breasted Warblers in Jefferson and Calloway Counties,
• American Redstart in Calloway County,
• Black-throated Blue Warbler in Fayette County,
• Golden-winged Warbler in Muhlenberg County,
• Blue-headed Vireo in Fayette County,
• Rose-breasted Grosbeak in several counties across the state,
• Swainson’s Thrush from several counties across the state,
• Alder Flycatcher in Jefferson County,
• Least Flycatcher in Muhlenberg County, &
• Bobolink in Calloway County.

Lingering early migrants and winter residents reported recently include Red-breasted Merganser  & Blue-winged Teal at the Falls of the Ohio in Jefferson County, a Snow Goose at Kentucky Dam, and Ring-necked Duck, Greater Scaup, Lesser Scaup, Common Goldeneye, and Bufflehead on Lake Barkley.  White-throated Sparrows and White-crowned Sparrows continue to be reported in small numbers across the state.

May 5, 2001

Highlights of this update include: a Clay-colored Sparrow in Jefferson County, returning spring migrants and summer residents, and a report of highlights from the recent meeting of the Kentucky Ornithological Society.

A Clay-colored Sparrow made a brief appearance at Tom Sawyer State Park in Jefferson County on April 30.  There has been no further report on this uncommon Kentucky migrant.  Other migrants are also entering the state.  Bobolinks have been observed in Trigg and Warren Counties, a Least Flycatcher was identified at McConnell Springs in Fayette County, a Common Loon was observed at Lake Reba in Madison County, and Northern Waterthrush and Rose-breasted Grosbeak have been reported across the state.

On April 28, eight (8) species of shorebirds were observed at various locations in Fulton County.  Highlights included 12 Lesser Yellowlegs, 50+ Semipalmated Plovers, 25 Solitary Sandpipers, 1 Dunlin, 2 Semipalmated Sandpipers, 8 American Golden Plovers and several Pectoral Sandpipers.  The observations were made at Willow Pond, Obion Creek Wildlife Management Area, and Lake # 9.

Common Nighthawks observed in Warren and Grayson County last week complete the arrival of Kentucky’s three (3) species of Nightjars.  Three Mississippi Kites in Fulton County are the only “new” summer resident species reported since the last update. Other summer resident reports of possible interest include Baltimore and Orchard Orioles at Jonathan Creek and Marshall County, Blue Grosbeak at Plano in Warren County, and Henslow’s Sparrow at the Central Kentucky Wildlife Management Area in Madison County.  White-throated Sparrows and White-crowned Sparrows continue to be reported from around the state representing lingering winter residents.

April 27th through April 29th, the Kentucky Ornithological Society met at Carter Caves State Resort Park in Carter County.
Including species observed on the field trip to the Minor Clark Fish hatchery in Rowan County on April 29, approximately 115
species were observed.  Among the most numerous species observed were: Red-eyed Vireo, Yellow-throated Vireo, Ovenbird, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Louisiana Waterthrush, Red-headed Woodpecker, Scarlet Tanager, Summer Tanager,
Blue-winged Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Yellow-throated Warbler, Kentucky Warbler, Hooded Warbler, Northern Parula, Chimney Swift, and most common woodland year round residents.

Other highlights included: Great Egret, Green Heron, Common Merganser, Solitary Sandpiper, Spotted Sandpiper, Lesser
Yellowlegs, Osprey, Bald Eagle, Red-shouldered Hawk, Broad-winged Hawk, Barred Owl, Cerulean Warbler, Blackburnian
Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, American Redstart, Bank Swallows, & Savannah Sparrows.

April 25, 2001

Highlights of this update include a BLACK RAIL in the Peabody Wildlife Management Area and the arrival of additional species of spring migrants and summer residents.

A BLACK RAIL was observed at the marsh at the end of Road S-5 in the Sinclair Unit of the Peabody Wildlife Management Area in Muhlenberg County on April 24.  A single birder walking through the marsh flushed the bird and provided a good description.  Since this is Kentucky’s first known record of a Black Rail, this observation will be submitted to the KBRC for consideration.  Unspecified numbers of Soras were observed at this location by the same observer.

Meanwhile, reports of new species of migrants and summer residents continue to poor into the state.  Firs reports of spring migrants and summer residents reported since the last update on April 22, include the following:

• Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Swainson’s Thrush, & Summer Tanager in Jefferson County,
• Eastern Wood-Peewee in Logan and Jefferson counties,
• Baltimore Oriole in Jefferson, Warren, and Grayson counties,
• Rose-breasted Grosbeak in Jefferson and Warren counties, &
• Blackburnian Warbler and Lincoln’s Sparrow in Warren County.

April 22, 2001

Highlights of this update include: Marbled Godwits at the Falls of the Ohio, a report on Saturday’s KOS/BBC field trip to the Sloughs Wildlife Management Area, and the arrival of spring migrants and summer residents.

12 Marbled Godwits were observed this morning at 11:00 EDT on the rocks below the spillway at the Falls of the Ohio in Jefferson County.  These birds would be best observed from the observation deck of the Falls of the Ohio State Park on the Indiana side of the Ohio River just down stream from downtown Louisville.  It is unlikely that their visit will be for an extended period of time.

Highlights the KOS/BBC field trip to the Sloughs Wildlife Management Area in western Henderson County include 1 Least Bittern, 1 American Bittern, 1 Virginia Rail, 18+ Soras.  Other species observed included 12 Long-billed Dowitchers, 1 Stilt Sandpiper, 9 Semi-palmated Plovers, 9 Dunlin, 1 Merlin, and 1 Peregrine Falcon.

A Piping Plover was observed in Union County on Friday, April 20.  Other details are not available on this unusual observation.  Also observed at the same Union County location, were an American Golden Plover, an American Bittern, and several Soras.

Migrants and summer residents continue to invade the state, though the cold weather and northerly winds of early last week slowed the pace.  Warmer weather and more southerly winds have increased the rate of influx in recent days.  New species reported this week include: Northern Waterthrush, Tennessee Warbler, Blue Grosbeak, Indigo Bunting, Great-crested Flycatcher, & Magnolia Warbler.

Previously reported migrants and summer residents are now being reported from across the state and include: Scarlet Tanager,
Blue-winged Warbler, Hooded Warbler, Worm-eating Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler, Common Yellowthroat,
Red-eyed Vireo and many others.

Finally, on April 16, 4 Henslow’s Sparrows were observed in the Central Kentucky Wildlife Management Area in Madison County during an Eastern Kentucky University Field Trip.

April 16, 2001

Highlights of this update include: a report of 8 Marbled Godwits at Ballard Wildlife Management Area in Ballard County, the continued presence of a Harris’s Sparrow in Fulton County, and the arrival of summer residents and spring migrants.

Eight Marbled Godwits were reported in the Ballard Wildlife Management area, west of La Center in Ballard County, on the afternoon of April 15 at about 4:30 p.m.  The Godwits could not be re-located at sunset.  They may still be in the area or they may have moved northward.  The original location of the Marbled Godwits was at the end of Beaver Dam Slough.  To reach this location, enter the Management are at Mitchell Lake and cross the levee separating Mitchell Lake from Beaver Dam Slough.  Take the first left after the crossing and follow this gravel road for about ¾ of a mile to the near the end of Beaver Dam Slough.  Then turn left again on a small gravel lane and re-cross the slough.  The Godwits were in the company of puddle ducks and common shorebirds in a flooded field in this area.

As of April 10th, the Harris’s Sparrow remained at the western end of Ash Log Road in Fulton County.  As previously reported, this is near the junction of Ash Log Road with the levee.  The bird is located in a brushy former hog lot on the north side of the road.  Efforts to see this bird should be limited to parking in the road, spreading seed on the road and waiting to sort through the numerous sparrows remaining in the weedy area as they come to the road to feed.

New arrivals continue to flood into the state daily.  Summer residents and spring migrants reported for the first time since the last update include:

• Ovenbird at Mammoth Cave National Park,
• Yellow-throated Vireo at a variety of locations,
• Red-eyed Vireo at a variety of locations,
• Chuck-will’s-widow in Logan County,
• 1 Lark Sparrow in Fulton County,
• 1 Nashville Warbler in Trigg County,
• 4 Snowy Egrets, 1 Little Blue Heron, and 3 Cattle Egrets in Fulton County,
• Henslow’s Sparrows in Calloway County and at the end of road S-5 in the Sinclair Unit of the Peabody Wildlife Management Area of Muhlenberg County,
• Worm-eating Warbler in Calloway County,
• Cliff Swallows in Hart County and at Barkley and Kentucky Dams,
• a Kentucky Warbler in Hart County,
• over 100 Black-crowned Night Herons on the rookery island near Kuttawa in Lake Barkley, Lyon County,
• Yellow Warbler in Lawrence and Logan Counties,
• Hooded Warbler in Lawrence County,
• Cerulean Warbler in Pike County, &
• 20+ Solitary Sandpipers and 2 Long-billed Dowitchers near the Sloughs Wildlife Management area in western Henderson County.

Lingering winter birds and early migrants still remain in the state, some in large numbers.  These include a Sedge Wren in Fulton County, White-throated Sparrows across the state, common waterfowl across the state, including Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, Blue-winged Teal, Lesser Scaup, Bufflehead, Ruddy Duck, Pied-billed Grebe, & Horned Grebe.  Single Canvasbacks were also observed in the lake near the Peabody Power Plant Slag Pond and at the Ballard Wildlife Management Area and 3 American White Pelicans remain above Barkley Dam as of April 13th.

April 9, 2001

The highlight of this update is returning spring migrants and summer residents.

Near record warm temperatures and southerly winds continue the trend of migrants entering the Commonwealth in large numbers.  Several new species have been reported since the last update on April 5, 2001.  New species reported for the state include:

• Blue-winged Warbler at Western Kentucky Woods in Warren County,
• Northern Parula at WKU Woods and in Pulaski, Pike, and Trigg counties,
• Black-and-White Warbler at WKU Woods and Pike County,
• White-eyed Vireo at WKU Woods and in Calloway County,
• Broad-winged Hawk in Warren County,
• Wood Thrush in Pike County,
• Prothonotary Warbler at Blood River Embayment and another location in Calloway County,
• Palm Warbler & Warbling Vireo in Calloway County,
• Whip-Poor-Will in Calloway and Trigg counties,
• Caspian Tern at Blood River and other locations on Kentucky Lake in Calloway County,
• Orchard Oriole at Jonathan Creek in Marshall County,
• Brewer’s Blackbird in Warren County,
• Common Yellowthroat and Green Heron at Blood River in Calloway County. &
• Scarlet Tanager in Trigg County.

Other birds of note are primarily lingering winter residents and similar migrants.  They include:

•  Pine Siskin in Calloway County,
• Winter Wren in Logan and Warren counties,
• White-throated Sparrow, White-crowned Sparrow, and Dark-eyed Junco from several locations,
• Vesper Sparrow and Ruby-crowned Kinglet in Pike County,  &
• Various common waterfowl from embayments on Kentucky Lake.

April 5, 2001

The highlight of this update is reports of spring migrants.

Southerly winds and warming temperatures have brought in a flood of new spring migrants this week while earlier migrants are building in numbers.  New species reported since the last update include:

• Blue-gray Gnatcatchers from several locations,
• Yellow-throated Warblers from several locations,
• Louisiana Waterthrush from several locations,
• 4 Blue-headed Vireos from Pulaski County,
• 1 Solitary Sandpiper from Madison County,
• 1 Ruby-throated Hummingbird from Pulaski County,
• 2 Eastern Kingbirds from the Land Between the Lakes area, &
• 1 Caspian Tern from Kentucky Lake in Marshall County.

In addition, several species normally associated with winter or very early migration continue to be reported in a variety of locations.  These lingering migrants were highlighted by 3 American Tree Sparrows in Daviess County and include the following species: Common Loon, including 41 on Lake Cumberland, American White Pelican, including 19 on Kentucky Lake,
Horned Grebe, Pied-billed Grebe, Lesser Scaup, Ring-necked Ducks, Ruddy Ducks, Northern Shoveler, Gadwall, Red-breasted Merganser, Hooded Merganser, Bonaparte’s Gull, Red-breasted Nuthatch, Swamp Sparrow, White-throated Sparrow, & Dark-eyed Junco.

April 1, 2001

Highlights of this update are the continued presence of a Harris’s Sparrow in Fulton County and lingering winter resident and
migrants.

As of March 25, the Harris’s Sparrow remained present near the western end of Ash Log Road in southwestern Fulton
County.  As before, persons attempting to view the bird should not enter the weed patch on the north side of the road, but
should instead spread cracked corn or bird seed on the road edge or shoulder, then watch at a distance from their vehicle as
several species of sparrow attack the seed, looking for the Harris’s Sparrow in the mix.

Returning migrants and summer resident reports have been scant this week except for slightly larger numbers of previously
reported species.  Highlights of these reports are below:

• Fish Crows were reported to be back in Fulton County on March 25,
• 35 American Golden Plovers were located along Ash Log Road in Fulton County on March 25,
• A single Lesser Yellowlegs observed in Todd County on April 1,
• 1 Lincoln’s Sparrow observed in Fulton County on March 25,
• 1 Osprey was seen in Madison County on March 28,
• 3 Barn Swallows were observed in Warren County on March 30, and
• Wood Ducks, Blue-winged Teal, Vesper Sparrows, Chipping Sparrows, Pine Warblers, Purple Martins, & Tree Swallows were all reported from multiple locations on multiple dates.

A final bird of note is the report of the drumming of a Ruffed Grouse near Yatesville Lake, located in Lawrence County.

March 25, 2001

Highlights of this update include the continued presence of a VARIED THRUSH in the Land Between the Lakes (LBL), the
apparent extirpation of the Red-cockaded Woodpecker, a new location for the Eurasian Collared-Dove, and spring migrants.

A single male VARIED THRUSH continued its presence at Wrangler Campground south of US 68 in the Land Between the
Lakes this week.  The bird was re-located on the morning of March 20 across the creek from campsite B-25 and again on
afternoon of March 21 between Staple A-2 and the lower numbered campsites on area B.  However, a search on the morning
of March 25 failed to locate the Thrush.  It is possible that the VARIED THRUSH is still in the area as it could easily be missed
due to its movement within its apparent territory and its habit of seeking the seclusion of thick undergrowth.

Red-cockaded Woodpeckers are or soon will be extirpated in the state of Kentucky.  Plans to remove the last know
individuals are underway at this time and may be completed.  This population consists of 1 full Kentucky bird, 2 half-breed
Kentucky birds and a few birds brought in from South Carolina.  All known individuals are being moved to a more secure
location for the species due to habitat loss caused by a serious outbreak of the Southern Pine Beetle in the vicinity of the last
known breeding birds.  All members of this group of Red-cockaded Woodpeckers will be or have been moved to South
Carolina, leaving no known individuals in the state.  Only the Kentucky Bird Records Committee has the authority to make this
apparent extirpation official.

A single Eurasian Collared-Dove was located in the small village of Celia in Hardin County.  This represents a new location for
the species and is 1 of 3 locations not on the southern tier of counties.  The other non-southern locations are La Center and
Owensboro.  Further study needs to be done in this area to determine of the species is established in Hardin County or if this is
an isolated occurrence.

Spring migration continues with a few new species arriving this week, several previously mentioned species arriving and a
movement of more southern members of winter resident species being reported.  Three new species reported for the first time
this week in Kentucky include a Chimney Swift in Calloway County, and a Grasshopper Sparrow on March 19 and a
Black-throated Green Warbler in Pulaski County on March 25.  Other summer resident/spring migrants reported this week
include:  American White Pelicans, Green-winged Teal, Northern Shoveler, American Wigeon, Red-breasted Merganser, Wood Duck, Blue-winged Teal, Osprey, Greater Yellowlegs, Least Sandpiper, Pectoral Sandpiper, Bonaparte’s Gull, Forster’s Tern, Northern Rough-winged Swallow, Tree Swallows, Pine Warbler, Brown Thrasher, Vesper Sparrow, & Chipping Sparrow.

Lingering winter residents and more southern individuals migrating through Kentucky at this time include: Lesser Scaup, Buffleheads, Winter Wren, Brown Creeper, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Golden-crowned Kinglet, Hermit Thrush, Pine Siskin, White-throated Sparrow, & Dark-eyed Junco.

Finally, a few winter species of gulls continue on Lake Barkley.  On March 25, an adult Thayer’s Gull was observed just above
the dam and an adult Lesser Black-backed Gull was observed on the exposed sandbars near Kuttawa.

March 19, 2001

Highlights of this update include the continued presence of a Varied Thrush at Land Between the Lakes (LBL), uncommon
gulls, and spring migrants.

The Varied Thrush was again located on Sunday, March 18 and observed for about 30 minutes.  The time of the observation
was approximately 10:30 AM CST.  The individual is a male and was seen observed feeding in dense undergrowth along the
border of section B of the Wrangler Campground in LBL, about 5 miles south of US 68.

Reports of uncommon gulls from Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley continue to be received.  Recent reports include the
following:

• On March 17, the adult California Gull was relocated along with 1 1st winter Great Black-backed Gull, 2 1st winter Glaucous Gulls, and 1 adult Lesser Black-backed Gull at Boyd’s Landing on Lake Barkley in Lyon County,
• On March 17, 1 1st winter Thayer’s Gull below Barkley Dam on the Lyon/Livingston County line,
• On March 18, a 1st winter Glaucous Gull above Barkley Dam, and
• On March 18, and adult Lesser Black-backed Gull from Kuttawa Landing in the LBL and also 1 at Boyd’s Landing.

Migration is beginning to pick up with the return of early shorebirds.  Recent shorebird highlights include 64 Pectoral
Sandpipers in Western Christian County, 12 Pectoral Sandpipers in Warren County, and single Greater Yellowlegs at
Yatesville Lake and in Logan County.

Waterfowl continue to move through the state.  Reports from around the state include 15 species of waterfowl and grebes.
Lesser Scaup and Ring-billed ducks appear to be numerous across the state, as do Red-breasted Mergansers and Gadwalls.
Bonaparte’s Gulls are moving through the Kentucky Lake/Lake Barkley area in large numbers with several hundreds observed
in many locations on March 18.  Additionally, 200+ American White Pelicans are gathered above and below Barkley Dam
where they are now see feeding both above and below the dam as well as resting on the small islands above the dam.  Four
Forster’s Terns were observed on upper Lake Barkley near US 68 on March 18, and Osprey have been reported from both
Kentucky Lake and Yatesville Lake.

Other species of possible interest include Tree Swallow, Eastern Phoebe, and Brown Thrasher observations from across the
state, Barn Swallow observations from Pulaski and Lyon County, a Golden-crowned Kinglet in Grayson County, Vesper
Sparrows in Pulaski County, and a Golden Eagle in the LBL.

March 16, 2001

Highlights of this update include: a report of a Varied Thrush at Land Between the Lakes (LBL), a CALIFORNIA  GULL at
LBL, and a Ross’s Goose in Bowling Green.

A male VARIED THRUSH was reported on March 16 at the Wranglers Campground at Land Between The Lakes. It was
feeding on the ground only 20 feet from the road in the vicinity of campsites B-23 and B-24 when found around 10:15 a.m. It
fed for 10 minutes or so and then flew to a tree at the near edge of the creek at the rear of the site. It appeared undisturbed and
came back to the ground again a short time later. This bird may be very re-findable.

If you decide to come look for it, be sure to show your binoculars at the gatehouse at the entrance to the campground and the
hosts will give you a pass and directions on where to park. If you see it, be sure to give them an update as you leave. Updates
will be posted as they become available.

A CALIFORNIA GULL in adult breeding plumage was located on Lake Barkley on March 15.  The bird was seen on a mud
flat from Kuttawa Landing in Land Between the Lakes.  Kuttawa Landing is reached by entering the “Trace” just south of
Grand Rivers and traveling south a few miles.  Turn left to Eddyville Landing.  Thereafter, follow signs to Kuttawa Landing.
This bird was still present on March 16.

Another noteworthy sighting on March 15 was a single Ross’s Goose a Basil Griffin Park in southwestern Bowling Green.

March 15, 2001

Highlight of this update is a CALIFORNIA GULL on Lake Barkley.

A CALIFORNIA GULL in adult breeding plumage was located today on Lake Barkley.  The bird was seen on a mud flat
from Kuttawa Landing in Land Between the Lakes.  Kuttawa Landing is reached by entering the “Trace” just south of Grand
Rivers and traveling south a few miles.  Turn left to Eddyville Landing.  Thereafter, follow signs to Kuttawa Landing.  This bird
was still present late this afternoon.

Another noteworthy sighting today was the presence of a single Ross’s Goose a Basil Griffin Park in southwestern Bowling
Green.

New spring migrants since the last update are a single Northern Rough-winged Swallow at Basil Griffin Park and Eastern
Phoebes in several locations.   Tree Swallows, Purple Martins, and common waterfowl have also been reported from across
the state.

March 12, 2001

Highlights of this update include:  Eared Grebe & Glaucous Gull at Kentucky Lake, a Great Black-backed Gull above Barkley
Dam, an early report of a Rose-breasted Grosbeak, and other migrants.

An Eared Grebe transitioning into breeding plumage was located above Kentucky Dam on March 10.  The bird was observed
from the dam area and was estimated to be 1½ miles upstream from the dam.  A first or second winter Glaucous Gull was
observed further upstream on Kentucky Lake on the same date.  This single bird was in the company of many common gulls
and was observed from Bear Creek Boat Ramp.

Also on March 10, a single first winter Great Black-backed Gull was observed above Barkley Dam.  Nearby were 2 Thayer’s
Gulls, an adult and a second winter bird.  Three Lesser Black-backed Gulls were observed on the same date at Boyd’s
Landing on Lake Barkley.  Other birds of interest observed on March 10 in the lakes are included:

• Approximately 200 Horned Grebes on Kentucky Lake and/or Lake Barkley,
• Approximately 200 American White Pelicans above Barkley Dam and on upper Lake Barkley,
• Rafts of several thousand waterfowl on Lake Barkley between the dam and Kuttawa,
• Rafts of several thousand waterfowl on Kentucky Lake as viewed from the Bear Creek Boat Ramp,
• Several Tree Swallows, &
• 1 Common Loon

Other birds of note reported this week include singing Pine Warblers in Warren and Barren Counties, a Purple Martin in Logan
County, and Forster’s Terns, Wood Ducks, and Least Sandpipers in Calloway County. Waterfowl migration is near at or near
peak.  While some species of divers have past peak, others are near the peak and many puddle ducks are just beginning to
arrive in numbers.

March 6, 2001

Highlights of this update are a Franklin’s Gull in Fulton County and reports of early migrants.

A single Franklin’s Gull was located in fields north of Reelfoot Wildlife Refuge, Long Point Unit in southern Fulton County on
March 5.  The Franklin’s was in the company of several hundred Ring-billed Gulls when observed.

Spring migration continues to develop in Kentucky as small flocks of Sandhill Cranes continue to move across the state with 33
reported from Jefferson County on March 3 and 25 reported in Warren County on February 26.  The first report of Purple
Martins in the state comes from Calloway County where 3 males were observed inspecting nest boxes.  Tree Swallows also
made their first appearance in the Commonwealth with 4 individuals reported from Thurston Pond in Wayne County.  Rounding
out passerine migrants is the report of a singing Chipping Sparrow in Hart County.

Other early migrants reported this week include 8 Forster’s Terns and 5 Least Sandpipers at Jonathan Creek in Marshall
County and 5 species of common waterfowl at Thurston Pond in Wayne County.

Other birds of note were reported from the Sinclair Unit of Peabody Wildlife Management Area and the end of road S-5.
These birds included 3 Le Conte’s Sparrows, 2 Short-eared Owls, and 4 Northern Harriers.

February 26, 2001

Highlights of this update include: the continued presence of a Harris’s Sparrow and Western Meadowlarks in Fulton County, a
possible Black-capped Chickadee in Russell County, early spring migrants including waterfowl, and wintering gulls at various
locations.

The Harris’s Sparrow continues its presence at the western end of Ash Log Road in Fulton County.  The bird was last
observed on February 24.  Please remember to stay on the road if trying to view this bird.  Bring birdseed or cracked corn to
spread on the road edge and use your car as a blind to sort through the 100 plus sparrows of several species to find the
Harris’s.  Another Harris’s Sparrow in Daviess County has apparently not been seen since February 13.  Two Western
Meadowlarks were again observed near Sassafras Baptist Church in corn stubble.  The last observation was described as
being south-southwest of the Church.

A possible Black-capped Chickadee has been reported below Wolf Creek Dam in Russell County.  Any birder visiting the
area should seek out this individual and provide appropriate documentation to the KBRC if the bird is located.

Early spring migrants, including some winter holdovers, reported this week include a Pine Siskin in Pulaski County, 99 Sandhill
Cranes flying over Ohio County, a Merlin in Daviess County, 9 Forster’s Terns at Jonathan Creek in Marshall County, a
Greater Yellowlegs at Long Point in the Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge of Fulton County, and common waterfowl from
across the state.

Waterfowl highlights come mostly from Long Point of the Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge.  These highlights include: 1,000 +
Greater White-fronted Geese, 100 + Northern Pintail, 275 + American Wigeon, & 300 + Green-winged Teal. Other
waterfowl highlights have included Hooded Mergansers reported from several locations, and unspecified numbers of Ruddy
Duck, Gadwall, Green-winged Teal, Mallard, and Canada Geese at Jonathan Creek in Marshall County.

Wintering gulls remain on the large western lakes in significant numbers.  In addition to the usual Herring, Ring-billed, and
Bonaparte’s Gulls, the following have been reported.  On February 23, 2 adult and 2 first winter Thayer’s Gulls were reported
below Barkley Dam.  On the same date, a single first winter Thayer’s Gull was located at the Kentucky Dam Marina and an
Adult Lesser Black-backed Gull was observed at Boyd’s Landing on Lake Barkley.  Also present on Lake Barkley were
about 250 American White Pelicans and a large raft of mixed Lesser and Greater Scaup.  On February 21, a single second
winter Thayer’s Gull was observed at Barkley Dam.  On February 24, a single second winter Thayer’s Gull was again
observed, as was an adult in the vicinity of Barkley Dam.  A Laughing Gull reported at Markland Dam in Gallatin County on
February 17 completes the gulls reported this week.

Other birds of possible interest reported this week include 13 Rusty Blackbirds and 3 Short-eared Owls in Ohio County and11
Eurasian Collared-Doves in Hickman with 2 more reported in Russellville.

February 20, 2001

Highlights of this update include: migrating Sandhill Cranes, Harris’s Sparrow, Mute Swans, and American Woodcocks.

Harbingers of have arrived in the presence of Sandhill Cranes and American Woodcocks. Sandhill Cranes are flying over
central Kentucky in large numbers at the present time.  The 3 largest reports come from Taylor County, Hart, County, &
Jefferson County.  On February 19, an estimated 3,000 Sandhill Cranes flew over the Green River Reservoir area in several
flocks ranging in size from 4 birds to several hundred.  On that same date, 1,000s of Sandhill Cranes were reported to be on
the ground in various locations in Hart County.  Also on February 19, at least 800 individuals were observed flying over eastern
Jefferson County.  At least 5 American Woodcocks were heard and observed in courtship flight in Hart County with spotted
reports from other counties.

The Harris’s Sparrow continued its presence in Fulton County at the western end of Ash Log Road through February 17.
Another report of Harris’s Sparrow has surfaced in Daviess County at the home of Mike Brown.  This bird was first observed
on December 29 and has been sporadically present through February 13.  Warmer weather may have caused this individual to
stray for the feeder or to leave the area.  Colder weather will almost certainly bring the bird back to the feeder if it is still in the
area.  Further information concerning this individual may be obtained by calling Mr. Brown at 270-726-4646 (work voice
mail).  Mr. Brown will return your call if possible.  Further observations of this second Harris’s Sparrow should be submitted to
the KBRC as these 2 individuals represent the first known occurrence of this species in the state in approximately 10 years.

Two Mute Swans were observed on a pond off of US 25 between Berea and Richmond in Madison County. Other reports of
possible interest include the observation of over 30 Bald Eagles at Land Between the Lakes last weekend for “Eagle
Weekend”, common waterfowl at Blood River in Calloway County and 2 Eurasian Collared-Doves in Logan County.

February 12, 2001

Highlights of this update include:  the continued presence of a Harris’s Sparrow, Western Meadowlark, Prairie Falcon, and
returning Sandhill Cranes.

The single Harris’s Sparrow continued to be present at its location near the western end of Ash Log Road in Fulton County
through February 11.  Numerous observers on the TOS/KOS joint birding weekend observed the bird on both February 10 &
11.  If you attempt to find the bird, drive just past the last house near the western end of Ash Log Road.  Stop in front of the
weed patch on the north side of the road.  Put out some cracked corn or bird feed on the road edge and back up or pull
forward.  Either use your car as a blind or stay in your car and pick through the numerous individuals of several species of
common sparrows to find the Harris’s.

Also in Fulton County a single Western Meadowlark was observed just north of Sassafras Ridge Baptist Church on February
10.  Two individuals were subsequently heard to sing at approximately the same location on February 11.

On February 9, a Prairie Falcon was observed in southern Muhlenberg County near the junction of KY 189 and KY 853.  It is
not known if this individual was “on the move” or is staying around in the same area.  Any subsequent observations of this
individual should be reported promptly to the bird line or to birdky.

Sandhill Cranes have begun migration northward.  Today, February 12, a flock of about 50 individuals was reported flying over
Warren County.  Numbers should begin to steadily increase as the month progresses.

Approximately 40 birders, at least 4 from Kentucky, 1 from Illinois, and the balance from Tennessee attended the TOS/KOS
joint birding weekend.  Additional Kentucky birds on interest located on the trip included the following: 1 Short-eared Owl,
9 Vesper Sparrows, 4 Le Conte’s Sparrows, 4 Ross’s Geese, 2 Rough-legged Hawks, Snow Geese, Greater White-Fronted
Geese, Northern Pintail, American White Pelican, & Brown Thrasher.

February 8, 2001

The highlight of this update is the continued presence of a Harris’ Sparrow in Fulton County.

The previously reported Harris’ Sparrow was observed several times by several observers on February 2, 3, & 4.  This bird
remains on Ash Log Road just east of its junction with the Mississippi River levee road (Sutton Road).  BIRDERS ARE
ASKED TO BIRD THIS LOCATION FROM THE ROAD AND NOT WALK THROUGH THE WEED PATCH IN AN
EFFORT TO KEEP THE BIRD FROM LEAVING THE AREA.  BIRDERS MAY ALSO WISH TO TAKE CRACKED
CORN TO SPREAD ON THE ROAD EDGE/SHOULDER TO POSSIBLY HELP KEEP THE SPARROWS IN THE
AREA.

In addition to the Harris’ Sparrow, a Western Meadowlark was heard to sing in the same area on February 2 and on February
4.  A new high count of Eurasian Collared-Doves was reported from Hickman in Fulton County as 26 individuals were
observed there over the weekend.  Also observed in Fulton County over the past weekend were:

• A single Lesser Yellowlegs at a shallow pool in southwest end of the county,
• 30 – 40 Snow Geese on Lake # 9,
• And single Pine Warblers, Chipping Sparrows and Le Conte’s Sparrows on Long Point of the Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge.

• Chipping Sparrows and a Pine Warbler in Jefferson County,
• A Golden Eagle and a Pine Siskin in the Bernheim Forest,
• 3 American Woodcocks in the River Queens Unit of the Peabody Wildlife Management Area,
• 38 American White Pelicans above Barkley Dam and an additional 50 at Linton’s Bay on Lake Barkley,
• A Marsh Wren on the Sinclair Unit of the Peabody Wildlife Management Area, and
• A dark morph Rough-legged Hawk in Logan County.

January 29, 2001

The highlight of this update is a HARRIS’ SPARROW in Fulton County.

A HARRIS’ SPARROW was observed today in Fulton County near Lake #9.  This bird was in the company of a large
mixed-species flock of sparrows that has been present in an old hog lot north of the lake.  The old hog lot is on the north side
of Ash Log Road, just east of its junction with the Mississippi River levee road (Sutton Road); this is page 74, block H-4 in the
DeLorme Gazetteer.  Kentucky does not have photo/specimen documentation of this species, so anyone going is encouraged
to attempt to get a photo/video if they see the bird. BIRDERS ARE ASKED TO BIRD THIS LOCATION FROM THE
ROAD AND NOT WALK THROUGH THE WEED PATCH IN AN EFFORT TO KEEP THE BIRD FROM LEAVING
THE AREA.  BIRDERS MAY ALSO WISH TO TAKE CRACKED CORN TO SPREAD ON THE ROAD
EDGE/SHOULDER TO POSSIBLY HELP KEEP THE SPARROWS IN THE AREA. Other sparrows in the mixed flock
include White-crowned Sparrows, White-throated Sparrows, and American Tree Sparrows.  The KOS/TOS joint
birding weekend scheduled for February 9 – 11 will no doubt have this bird as well as Smith’s Longspurs in nearby Tennessee
as targets.

Other birds observed in various locations at Fulton County today; include 1,000+ Greater White-fronted Geese, 140 Northern
Pintails, at least 6 American Pipits, at least 2 Lapland Longspurs, 3 Rough-legged Hawks, and 5 – 6 Eurasian Collared-Doves
in Hickman.

Eurasian Collared-Doves are also now being seen semi-regularly in Murray in Calloway County.  A large concentration of
Ring-billed Gulls was reported today on Lake Cumberland.  An estimated 2,000 Ring-billed Gulls were present as were about
40 Bonaparte’s Gulls and 1 Herring Gull.

January 28, 2001

Highlights of this update include 2 Trumpeter Swans in McCracken County and a report from the KOS/BBC field trip to the
Tri-Dam area in western Kentucky.

Two Trumpeter Swans have been present at a pond on US 60 just west of Paducah for nearly 1 week (see photo by Chris
Sloan to the right).  The birds were last observed on the KOS/BBC field trip of January 27 in the late afternoon. They are
being seen on a small pond just beyond the point where US 60 reduces from 4 lanes to 2 lanes, west of Paducah.  Apparently,
the owner of the pond is feeding the swans at about 4:30 each evening.  This might be a good time to try to locate the birds. Be
advised that Trumpeter Swans are officially listed as extirpated in Kentucky. It is not known if these birds are part of the
re-introduction effort taking place to the north or are strays from the wild population in the west.  The former is the most likely
source for these birds.  For birders adhering to ABA rules for state listing, these birds appear to be “unlistable” in Kentucky
due to their unknown origin and their official
status in the state.

In addition to the Trumpeter Swans, the KOS/BBC field trip also had the following highlights:

• 2 Thayer’s Gulls (1 adult above Barkley Dam and 1 3rd winter bird below Smithland Dam),
• 1 Laughing Gull at Kentucky Dam,
• 1 Lesser Black-backed Gull at Kentucky Dam State Park Marina,
• approximately 12 American White Pelicans above Barkley Dam, &
• 15 species of waterfowl including Greater Scaup above Barkley Dam.

January 18, 2001

Highlights of this update include:  the first winter record of Henslow's Sparrow in the state, a spectacular concentration of gulls
at Smithland Dam, Merlins in Muhlenberg County, an injured Snowy Owl at the Louisville Airport, and reports of waterfowl,
raptors, passerines, and shorebirds.

A Henslow's Sparrow, Kentucky's first winter record, was located in the Sinclair Unit of the Peabody Wildlife Management
Area in Muhlenberg County on January 12. Other birds reported in the Sinclair Unit included 4 Le Conte's Sparrows and 6
Short-eared Owls.  In the River Queen Unit, also in Muhlenberg County, were 4 -5 Merlins, that appear to be wintering in the
area, 1 Le Conte's Sparrow, 1 Pine Warbler, and several Short-eared Owls.  On the same date in nearby Ohio County, 2 Le
Conte's Sparrows, and 1 Sedge Wren were observed.

A spectacular concentration of gulls is now present at Smithland Dam along the Ohio River in Livingston County.  For over a
week, in excess of 10,000 Ring-billed Gulls, 100 to 200 Herring Gulls, and other gulls have been present.  On January 14, 1
Adult Thayer's Gull and 2 possible first winter Lesser Black-backed Gulls were observed.  On January 15, 1 adult Thayer's
Gull, two first-year Thayer's Gulls, and 3 - 4 adult Lesser Black-backed Gulls were observed.

On January 16, it was reported that a plane at the Louisville Airport in Jefferson County had hit & injured a Snowy Owl.  The
bird as been sent to a rehabilitation center, but was apparently present for over a week, though this fact was unknown to
birders.

Waterfowl have been reported from across the state recently.  Some of the most noteworthy observations are:

• An estimated 10,000+ Canada Geese, at Long Point of the Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge on January 12.  Also present at that time were 426 Greater White-Fronted Geese, and 75 Snow Geese.  At the same location on January 14 the same species were reported though Canada Geese were reported as several hundreds, 500 - 1,000 Greater    White-fronted Geese were observed, but only about 15 Snow Geese were observed.
• 2 Wood Ducks and 1 Green-winged Teal were below Smithland Dam on January 14.
• 1 Tundra Swan, now departed, and a Greater White-Fronted Goose were reported at Lake Reba in Madison County on January 11.
• On January 14, several Common Goldeneye were above both Barkley Dam and Kentucky Dam, 2 Red-Breasted Mergansers were on Lake Barkley downstream from the US 68 Bridge in Trigg County, about 3,000 Scaup species     most of which were Lesser Scaup were above Barkley Dam, and a single Common Merganser male was above Barkley Dam.
• 10 species of waterfowl were reported from Cagle Lake in Simpson County on January 11, including unspecified numbers of Greater White-fronted Geese, Snow Geese, and 1 Canvasback.

Other birds of note reported recently include the following:

• 9 American White Pelicans above Barkley Dam on January 14,
• 1 Pine Warbler in the River Queen Unit of the Peabody Wildlife Management Area on January 13,
• 6 Short-eared owls in the Sinclair Unit of Peabody, several Short-eared Owls in the River Queen Unit on January 13, and 6 Short-eared Owls in the fields of Fulton County on January 14,
• 2 Rough-legged Hawks in the River Queen Unit of Peabody on January 13,
• 38 Red-tailed Hawks in Fulton county of which 8 were of western races including 3 Harlan's Hawks and 1 Krider's Hawks on January 14, and
• More than 50 Lapland Longspurs in Fulton County on January 14.

January 11, 2001

Highlights of this update include:  large numbers of Lapland Longspurs, American Tree Sparrows, Horned Larks, and other
highlights from late Christmas Bird Counts.

 Large numbers of Lapland Longspurs continue to be reported across the state in the latest round of Christmas Bird Counts
conducted between 12/30/2000 and 1/2001.  Longspur numbers were recorded as follows on late CBCs.

• Boone County, 51,
• Otter Creek, in Meade County, 45,
• Western Daviess County, 92, &
• Jefferson County, over 200.

• Boone County, 300+
• Paradise, 743 &
• western Daviess County, 242.

• Boone County, 300+
• western Daviess County, 1,700+, &
• Jefferson County, 1,900+

Other Christmas Bird Count highlights include:

• 7 Mute Swans and a Peregrine Falcon in Boone County,
• 2 Loggerhead Shrikes, 3 American Pipits, and 2 Chipping Sparrows at Otter Creek,
• 1 Mute Swan, 1 Ross’ Goose, 20 Greater White-fronted Geese, 17 Short-eared Owls, 49 Northern Harriers, 8 Rough-legged Hawks, & 14 Le Conte’s Sparrows at Paradise,
• 1 Winter Wren & 2 Chipping Sparrows in Western Daviess County, &
• 3 Mute Swans, 1 Golden Eagle, 2 Bald Eagles, 1 Peregrine Falcon, & 1 Merlin in Jefferson County.

January 1, 2001

Highlights of this update include:  an invasion of winter gulls, Lapland Longspurs, and Horned Larks, and highlights of recent
Christmas Bird Counts.

Gulls have invaded the Kentucky Dam/Barkley Dam area in Marshall/Livingston/Lyon Counties.  On December 27, 1 Adult
Lesser Black-backed Gull was observed above Barkley Dam with 4 more present near Kentucky Dam.  Also at Kentucky
Dam on that date were a 1 first winter Glaucaus Gull, 1 or 2 adult Laughing Gulls, and 400+ Herring Gulls.  Thousands of
Ring-billed Gulls were also present and large numbers of Bonaparte’s Gulls remain primarily on the embayments of both lakes.

On December 31, 2 Thayer’s Gulls were observed in the dam area, 1 in first or second winter plumage, the other an adult.  On

January 1, observers located the first winter Glaucaus Gull at Kentucky Dam and an adult Laughing Gull and adult Lesser
Black-backed Gull on ice at the Kentucky Dam Marina.

On December 31, Fulton County yielded a single Rough-legged Hawk, 1 Krider’s Red-tailed Hawk, 10 Eurasian
Collared-Doves, 900 Horned Larks, and 800 Lapland Longspurs.  This appears to be a state record for the largest group
of Lapland Longspurs ever recorded in Kentucky.  Lapland Longspurs, Horned Larks, and American Tree Sparrows appear
to have invaded the Commonwealth in record or near record numbers this winter and you will see other impressive
reports on these species in the CBC results below.

Several Christmas Bird Counts have been held since the most recent update. The following are highlights from some of these:

• Otter Creek in eastern Meade County:  30 Lapland Longspurs.
• Olmstead in southwestern Logan County:  4 Eastern Phoebes, 890 Horned Larks, 5 Hermit Thrushes, 18 American Tree Sparrows, 320 Lapland Longspurs, 8 Red Crossbills, 2 Eurasian Collared-Doves, and 1 Bald Eagle.
• Yatesville Lake (Eastern Kentucky Bird Club) in Lawrence County:  1 probable Northern Goshawk & 1 Pine Warbler.
• Somerset in Pulaski County: 1 Golden Eagle, 331 Horned Larks, unspecified numbers of Lapland Longspurs, and American Tree Sparrows, 2 Eastern Phoebes, 5 Brown Thrashers, 2 Chipping Sparrows, and 29 Fox Sparrows.
• Calloway County:  500 Lapland Longspurs, 300 Horned Larks, 1 Eurasian-Collared-Dove, and 1,100 American Coots.
• Peabody Wildlife Management Area: (Paradise) Muhlenberg and Ohio Counties: (partial results) 12 Le Conte’s Sparrows, 100 + and possibly 300 + American Tree Sparrows, 2 Rough-legged Hawks, 7 Short-eared Owls, 1 Bald Eagle, 1 Mute Swan, and 5+ Hermit Thrushes.

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