Kentucky Ornithological Society - Rare Bird Alerts 2003

Kentucky Ornithological Society

Kentucky Rare Bird Alert

Past Updates: January - December 2003

December 31, 2003

On December 30, Matt Stickel and Brainard Palmer-Ball located a Spotted Towhee in McCracken County. The bird is located on Gazetter page 58, block F-5. It is on the west side of KY 1321, 2.55 miles north of the junction at KY 725 at Cimota City. It was first located in a honeysuckle tangle next to a woodlot with a fallen down barn. It is all private property along that part of Bethel Church Road and Scott Record and Brainard are currently trying to find out who owns the land. With small game season in progress and this land sitting right next to a Wildlife Management Area, everyone should be pretty careful about staying right along the road, at least for now. Scott saw the bird again this morning (December 31), perhaps a bit farther north along the road in the fenceline that parallels it.

December 22, 2003

The highlights of this update are:

RUFOUS HUMMINGBIRDS are still being noted in several areas. The Russellville bird has not been seen since the December 12, but 2 were still being seen in Warren County at last report , and single individuals have been seen in southeast Jefferson county and near Nolin Lake in Grayson County. Two were also counted in the Bowling Green CBC on December 20.
Birds that have refused to go south are a number of CHIPPING SPARROWS seen in Bowling Green, Wayne Co., Green River Lake area, and Louisville, and PALM WARLBERS noted in Wayne County, Bowling Green, and 2 in Louisville. A single LINCOLN’S SPARROW was seen in Lexington on Saturday.
Birds that have come to see us are PURPLE FINCH, which have been observed in a couple of new areas: Wayne County and Green River Lake. WHITE-THROATED SPARROWS in some large concentrations; one noted spot was North Bend Bottoms in Boone County. And LAPLAND LONGSPURS were in both Louisville, and Bowling Green CBCs.
In the same bird counts a MERLIN was noted in Bowling Green and 2 PEREGRINE FALCONS were observed in Louisville. The lone RED-BREASTED NUTHATCH mentioned was also in Louisville.
Reformatory Lake in Oldham County held 7 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE, & 1 blue-phase SNOW GOOSE on the 21st. Two SHORT-EARED OWLS were observed in the Ano strip mines on December 20. 48 RED-BREASTED MERGANSERS were seen on Lake Barkley on the 20th.
SANDHILL CRANES were observed in the Bowling Green and Green River Lake areas.

December 4, 2003

The highlights of this update are:

numerous sightings of PURPLE FINCHES in the past week. Locales include Berea, Boone Co., Land between the lakes, and Bernheim Forest. PINE SISKINS have also been reported from several areas.
Of no lesser interest were the eagles observed at Bernheim Forest on November 30. The viewing of no less than 2 BALD EAGLES and 5 GOLDEN EAGLES took place from the Harrison Fork Road. Also noted there were several SHARP-SHINNED HAWKS, an EASTERN SCREECH-OWL, and a FOX SPARROW.
TUNDRA SWANS have returned to the Sauerheber unit of the Sloughs WMA as of November 26, and a ROSS’S GOOSE was observed at Camp Ernst Lake as late as November 27.
On the Long Point WMA, along with numerous other waterfowl, were large numbers of WHITE-FRONTED GEESE on December 1.
On the River Queen unit of the Peabody WMA, a single HOUSE WREN was located on November 28.
A second year LAUGHING GULL was observed at the Kentucky Dam Village Park marina on November 29. In the same LBL area, LAPLAND LONGSPURS were noted, as well as COMMON GOLDENEYE, BUFFLEHEAD, and HOODED MERGANSERS. Also observed in the LBL area were a RUDDY DUCK, BROWN CREEPERS, RED-BREASTED NUTHATCH, and 1 PINE WARLBER on December 2.
Other warblers seen were 2 PALM WARBLER in Wayne Co on December 3, and a TENNESSEE WARBLER in Daviess County on December 1.
On November 30, 3 RUFOUS HUMMINGBIRDS were banded. Two were in Warren County and the other just south of Russellville (Logan County).
A few lingering shorebirds are still presentt. 30 LEAST SANDPIPERS and 10 DUNLIN were seen on Blood River, and 23 WILSON’S SNIPE were observed in Wayne County.
Lastly, 3 SANDHILL CRANES were observed in a southward movement over eastern Fayette County on December 2.

November 10, 2003

The highlights of this update are:

On Friday, November 7, several separate sightings of BLACK SCOTERS were made above the Falls of the Ohio.
Also on the 7th a RED-THROATED LOON was reported at Barren River Reservoir. At the same time 1342 COMMON LOONS, 60 PIED-BILLED GREBES, AND 170 HORNED GREBES were counted in a raft of about 700 ducks that included: GADWALL, AMERICAN WIGEON, MALLARD, BLUE-WINGED TEAL, NORTHERN SHOVELER, GREEN-WINGED TEAL, CANVASBACK, REDHEAD, RING-NECKED DUCK, SURF SCOTER, BUFFLEHEAD, RUDDY, HOODED AND RED-BREASTED MERGANSERS, AND GREATER AND LESSER SCAUP. In addition, approximately 170 SANDHILL CRANES and 3 PINE SISKINS were in the area. DUNLIN are also still being seen at Barren River Reservoir.
PINE SISKINS showed up at feeders in Burlington over the weekend.
On November 3, a single RING-NECKED DUCK and a single blue phase SNOW GOOSE were observed at East Bend Station in Boone County.
In south-central Kentucky, 1 GREATER SCAUP was located in Waitsboro , and 79 DUNLIN were observed at Fishing Creek on the 6th.
On the 9th at Fishing Creek, 1 BLACK and 3 SURF SCOTERS were observed.
And on Sunday, November 9, a LOGGERHEAD SHRIKE was observed outside of Aspen Gove in Campbell County.

November 3, 2003

The highlights of this update are:

On 10-26 DARK-EYED JUNCOS and WHITE-CROWNED SPARROWS were noted at a feeder in Plano (Warren Co). In eastern Jefferson County, sparrows also included WHITE-CROWNED, LINCOLN’S, VESPER, CHIPPING, SWAMP, and FIELD. A SHORT-EARED OWL was also seen in the same location at this time.
At Beargrass Creek Nature Preserve on the 27th, CHIPPING SPARROWS, RED-BREASTED NUTHATCH, and a WINTER WREN were observed.
On Little River Bay in Lake Barkley on the 28th, an OSPREY , numerous TREE SWALLOWS, and 7 WHITE PELICANS were seen. Also on the 28th a BROWN CREEPER was noted in a backyard in Calloway Co.
On the 29th, LECONTE’S and 1 HENSLOW’S SPARROW were seen in the Peabody WMA.
A good number of ducks including GREEN-WINGED TEAL, NORTHERN SHOVELER, AMERICAN WIGEON, GADWALL, and WOOD DUCK were observed on Jonathon Creek on the 30th. Also seen there was 1 HORNED GREBE.
A list for Minor Clark Fish Hatchery for the weekend includes: NORTHERN SHOVELER, RUDDY DUCK, OSPREY, BELTED KINGFISHER, AMERICAN COOT, SNOW GOOSE (both white and blue phase), GREATER YELLOWLEGS, DUNLIN, PECTORAL SANDPIPER, and PIED-BILLED GREBE.

October 27, 2003

The highlights of this update are:

15 SURF SCOTERS were seen on the Ohio River in the Louisville area on October 21. They have not been relocated.
A SELASPHORUS female hummingbird was seen in Berea on October 23, and seen each day thru October 26.
Included in the weekend shorebird postings were:

12 DUNLIN, and 30 WILSON’S SNIPE at Petros Pond.
GREATER and LESSER YELLOWLEGS, DUNLIN, and PECTORAL SANDPIPER at Minor Clark Fish Hatchery.
WESTERN and LEAST SANDPIPERs, DUNLIN, and both YELLOWLEGS at Blood River.
BLACK-BELLIED PLOVER on Jonathon Creek.
SEMI-PALMATED PLOVER in western Fulton County.

Also observed in Fulton County were TREE SWALLOWS, TENNESSEE WARBLER, ROUGH-WINGED SWALLOW, WHITE PELICAN, and at the junction of Sycamore and the levy was a HARLAN'S HAWK.

Several LECONTE’S SPARROW were located at the end of road S5 in the Peabody WMA on Sunday, October 26. BALD EAGLES were viewed on Blood River, OSPREY, Cattle Egret, and a SNOW GOOSE at Minor Clark, and FRANKLIN’S and BONAPARTE’S GULLS were located at Jonathon Creek and Blood River.

October 20, 2003

The highlights of this update are:

On October 10, Sandhill Cranes were seen in the Murray area.
On October 12, Dark-eyed Juncos were seen in the Jefferson Memorial Forest and in the Rough River area.
A GLOSSY IBIS was observed October 12 on Meng’s Pond in Warren County.
Birds observed during an outing in the Louisville area on October 13 included summer hold outs, wintering birds, and passer-bys: BROWN CREEPER, WINTER WREN, GOLDEN-CROWNED KINGLET, LINCOLN'S SPARROW, GRAY CATBIRD, WHITE-EYED VIREO, ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLER, TENNESSEE WARBLER, and BLACK-THROATED GREEN WARBLER.
A WHIP-POOR-WILL was identified on October 15 in NW Grayson County.
The Henderson Sloughs Trip on October 18 had the following highlights: MARSH, and SEDGE WRENS, LEAST, and AMERICAN BITTERNS, KING RAIL, BALD EAGLE, MERLIN, and LECONTE’S SPARROW.
The SELASPHORUS female hummingbird, first seen on October 12, is still being seen in Bowling Green as of October 19.
3 HORNED GREBES were located at the Minor Clark fish Hatchery along with PRAIRIE and PINE WARBLERS. In the Peabody WMA, the list included DUNLIN, TREE SWALLOWS, BROWN CREEPER, SEDGE WREN, BELL’S VIREO, VESPER SPARROW, and NELSON’S SHARP-TAILED SPARROW.
On October 20, numerous WHITE PELICANS were noted in Ford Bay of Lake Barkley.

October 8, 2003

The highlights of this update are:

Species observed during the KOS fall meeting in Henderson included: King and Virginia rails, Sora, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Winter, Sedge, and Marsh wrens, Lincoln’s, Vesper, and White-throated sparrows, Short-eared Owls, Merlin, and Bald Eagles. Total species count was at least 104.
On October 5, an adult Lesser Black-backed Gull was observed at Kuttawa. Other gulls observed in the Land Between the Lakes area include a Franklin’s Gull at Kentucky Dam and Jonathon creek, one 1^st winter Laughing Gull at Kentucky Dam, along with Bonaparte’s. Forty-plus Forster’s Tern were noted at Jonathon Creek as well.
The shorebird highlight was an American Golden Plover observed at Blood River on October 6. Numerous warblers are still being seen about the state, but in dwindling numbers.

September 22, 2003

The highlights of this update are:

A HUDSONIAN GODWIT was observed on Friday, September 19 on the Blood River mud flats on Kentucky Lake. It has not been relocated. Also observed in the area were BUFF-BREASTED and STILT SANDPIPERS, and a BLACK-BELLIED PLOVER.
An EARED GREBE was observed in the basin between the Falls of the Ohio and Shippingport Island in the Louisville area on September 20th .
A MERLIN was observed on the Eddie Creek flats on Lake Barkley on September 15.
Also on September 15, a juvenile RED-NECKED PHALAROPE was located at the camp mines complex in Union County. No further mention of this bird has been made.
A mature PEREGRINE FALCON was viewed at the Minor Clark Fish Hatchery on Saturday, September 20. A single WHITE-RUMPED SANDPIPER was also seen.
A FRANKLIN’S GULL was observed on the 15th at Jonathon Creek, but the RED PHALAROPE is no longer being seen there.
2 BLACK TERNS, 1 SANDERLING, and 1 STILT SANDPIPER, mixed with other shorebirds, were observed on September 17 at the Fishing Creek mud flats on Lake Cumberland.

September 14, 2003

The highlight of this update is a Red Phalarope.

At 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 13, a single Red Phalarope was observed by four birder’s on the Jonathon Creek mud flats below highway 80 in Marshall County.

There have been no recent reports on the Painted Bunting, Swallow-tailed Kite, or the Clay-colored Sparrow.

September 4, 2003.

The highlights of this update are:

The Swallow-tailed Kite was still being seen as late as Aug. 30th on the Sinclair unit of the Peabody WMA
Black Terns have been seen in several areas including Walton’s pond and Blood River.
On Sept. 1, warblers observed in Boone County included Golden-winged, Tennessee, Magnolia, American Redstart, Canada, and N. Waterthrush at Middle Creek Park, and Blackburnian, Bay-breasted, Tennessee, and American Redstart at Gunpowder Creek Nature Park.
Warren County transients included Mourning Warbler on the 30th, Magnolia on the 3rd, and Gray-cheeked Thrush on the 2nd.
Wilson’s Warbler, American Redstarts, and a Mississippi Kite were observed on the 30th at Caperton Swamp in the Louisville area.
A White-rumped Sandpiper was seen at Petros Pond during the week. On August 30th, 2 Ruddy Turnstones were seen at Petersburg gravel pit in Boone Co.

August 25, 2003

The highlight of this update is the observation of a Clay-colored Sparrow.

A Clay-colored Sparrow was observed at Tom Sawyer State Park in eastern Jefferson County on Sunday evening, August 24, 2003, at about 7:45 p.m. EDT. It was seen sitting in a small shrubby tree in a field next to the nature trail.

Tom Sawyer State Park is located on Freys Hill Road off of Westport Road (Highway 1447). To get to Westport Road, take I-265 to exit 33. Go west on Westport Road. Freys Hill Road is about a mile or so on the left. BP and Thornton gas stations are on the corner. Take a left and go south past the main parking lot to the next entrance to the park. There is a parking lot at the end on the left & next to an archery range. You will see a walking path across the road. Go to your left on the walking path. Pass the entrance to the nature trail and continue walking until you come to a gravel road. Follow that road until you are about half way between a soccer field and the model airplane field. The bird was seen to the left about 30-40 feet off the path.

August 13, 2003

The highlight of this update is the observation of a Swallow-tailed Kite by Steve Anderson at the Peabody Wildlife Management Area (Sinclair unit). The bird was observed from S5 road about halfway between S1 and the end of S5. The management area is a permit required area, and permits can be obtained at local food marts in Central City and Beaver Dam.

August 6, 2003

The highlights of this update are:

A juvenile Marbled Godwit was noted at the camp mines complex in Union Co. also seen there were Stilt Sandpiper, Long-billed Dowitcher, a single Sanderling, and a juvenile Virginia Rail (migration?)
A laughing Gull was seen at lake Barkley Dam, as were Common Loons.
At the Sauerheber unit of the sloughs a possible Sora was seen for a brief moment. There were also Moorhens there (young).
The Petersburg gravel pit in Boone Co. turned up Semipalmated Plover, Lesser Yellowlegs, Solitary, Spotted, Least, Pectoral, and Semipalmated sandpipers, and Killdeer.
Observed in Prospect, KY was a group of Purple Martins numbering in the hundreds, apparently south bound.

August 1, 2003

The highlights of this update are: A sprinkling of shorebirds have been seen in the western part of the state. In the Blood River area, a lone Ruddy Turnstone was on the exposed rocky islands, and Least, Solitary, Spotted, Stilt, and Pectoral sandpipers were also observed. Stilt and Western sandpipers were also seen at the ash basin (Peabody WMA). Semipalmated Plovers and both species of yellowlegs were found at the Brown power plant. Caspian and Least terns were observed along the Mississippi, with the Caspian also noted on Kentucky Lake.

June 20, 2003

The highlights of this update are:

A Lawrence’s Warbler was observed at the Fishtrap Lake Wildlife Management Area in Pike Co. It was singing the Blue-winged Warbler’s song.
An alternate plumage American Golden Plover was observed at the Open pond area. A Black-necked Stilt, Least Tern, and Semipalmated Sandpipers were also observed.
Least Terns were also found at Lake 9.
Lake Barkley turned up 5 Caspian Terns.
A first year Franklin’s Gull was found in the Paradise Ash Basin, as were 40 Double-crested Cormorants.

June 9, 2003

The highlights of this update are: White-rumped sandpiper and Semipalmated sandpiper were observed at Petros, Morgan’s, and Meng’s pond. A single Dunlin, and 1 Black-necked Stilt were also present at Morgan’s pond on June 5th. Juvenile Mallard, Blue-winged Teal, and Pied-billed Grebe were present at Swallow Spring in southern Christian Co. Juvenile Mallards, Wood, and Grebe were also seen at Chaney lake. An albino fledgling Eastern Bluebird is being seen in Russell Co. Black-billed Cuckoos were spotted at two locations, including Pike Co. Also observed in Pike Co. were Tree Sparrows, and Horned Lark observed by Joan Carr. At the Lexington Cemetery, a single Yellow-bellied Flycatcher was observed.

June 2, 2003

The highlights of this update are: a White-winged Dove in Berea and numerous Mississippi Kites in Fulton Co., including one on nest.

An adult White-winged Dove appeared in the back yard of Art & Tina Ricketts at 412 Center St. in Berea on June 1 & remained in the immediate vicinity until evening, feeding on the ground & indulging in a bath.The bird reappeared on the morning of June 2 & will hopefully settle in for awhile. Birders are welcome, but will have to park on the street & walk in. Go to the gate on the right side of the house & help yourselves to seats on either level of the deck. If the dog is in the yard come to the front door. If we are not here the dog will be inside. Call first (859-986-4146) if you wish.

Also located in Fulton Co. were a Black-necked Stilt and a Least Tern. The Bourbon Co. Scissor-tailed Flycatcher is still in the Stringtown road area. Also seen in this area were Bobolinks. Bobolinks were also seen in Masterson Station Park just west of Lexington where they have nested for several years. A Gray-cheeked Thrush was seen in the Lexington cemetery, as well as one Chestnut-sided Warbler on Sunday May 31. A Loggerhead Shrike was seen 1 mile south of Millersburg on hwy 68. Wilson’s Warblers were seen in two locations this week.

May 26, 2003

The highlights of this update are: Painted Bunting: the male remains on territory on KY 94 just west of Jct KY 1282. Bell’s Vireo singing on a previous year’s territory located on Hwy 453 between scissor-tailed flycatcher’s nest and buffalo viewing area. Least Tern and a number of shore birds (Dunlin) in flooded fields along Hwy 94 in Fulton Co. Also a number of shorebirds at Petros pond including Black-bellied Plover, Baird’s and Stilt sandpipers.

May 18, 2003

The highlights of this update are: a now old report of a White-winged Dove in Hickman, a now old report of a California Gull at Kentucky Dam, the continued presence of a male painted Bunting in Fulton County, Scissor-tailed Flycatcher updates, and highlights from migration reports.

The White-winged Dove reported on May 5th was again located on May 7th in Hickman, Fulton County. This time the bird was in the same general area, but across KY 94 from the grain elevator on the south side of town. The bird was again in the company of Eurasian Collared-Doves which are now well established in the area surrounding the grain elevator in SW
Hickman.

A single California Gull in first summer plumage was observed on the Roof of the Kentucky Dam Village State Park Marina on May 7th. The bird flew south during the observation as has not been reported since.

The Painted Bunting was observed again on May 12th in the same general area as before in Hackberry trees, a few yards west of the west entrance to Long Point of the RNWR. Few other details are available from this observation. Interestingly, a Lark Sparrow was observed on the RR tracks just NW of KY 94 about ½ way between the original Painted Bunting location and Tennessee state line. This individual was most likely a migrant but could possibly still be in the area. Most recently, the
Painted Bunting was observed on May 16th about 200 yards west of the entrance to RNWR along KY 94 near the RR tracks referenced earlier. The bird still appears to be trying toe establish a mating territory and may be moving in an effort to fine an elusive female. It continues to chase male Indigo Buntings from its “territory”. Meanwhile on that day, Black-necked Stilts were observed on a flooded plain near the Mississippi River Levee, apparently just a few yards north of the Kentucky/Tennessee state line.

A female Scissor-tailed Flycatcher was observed and photographed about ½ mile east of the easternmost (main) entrance to the Long Point Unit of the Reelfoot National Wildlife Refute in SW Fulton County. This bird was observed on power lines apparently along the KY blacktop highway the fronts the refuge. This is clearly the 3rd location, if not the 4th for these birds in Kentucky this season.

There have been no recent updates on the Scissor-tailed Flycatchers in the Barkley Dam/Grand Rivers/Kentucky Dam Region, nor has there been an update on the Bourbon County birds.

Passerine migrant reports of note recently include Olive-sided Flycatcher, Veery, Cape May Warbler, Tennessee Warbler, Bay-breasted Warbler, Blackpoll Warbler, Bobolinks and Rose-breasted Grosbeaks from multiple locations, Also noted have been Willow Flycatchers, Bells Vireos, and Henslow’s Sparrows at the Sinclair Unit of the Peabody WMA, and a Least Flycatcher in Warren County,

Other migrants/returning summer residents include multiple reports of Mississippi Kites, Willets and Sanderlings on the Kentucky Dam Beach just west of and above the dam, a Wilson’s Phalarope at the Sloughs WMA, American Golden Plovers in Fulton County, a rare visual on a Eastern Screech-Owl on Logan County, a Connecticut Warbler in Jefferson County,
a Black-billed Cuckoo in Warren and Fulton counties,

A visit to Big Black Mountain recently produced the expected unusual nesters on the mountain including Dark-eyed Junco, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Least Flycatcher, Blackburnian Warbler, Black-throated Blue Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler, Veery, and Common Raven as well as breeding bird not confined to the mountain or other nearby mountain peaks.

May 7, 2003 at 4:05 p.m. (EDT)

Brainard Palmer-Ball and Jon Dunn have reported observing a first summer California Gull. The bird was perched with other gulls on the roof of one of the marina sheds at Kentucky Dam. It flew off to the south while they watched.

May 7, 2003

The highlights of this update are: a White-winged Dove in Hickman, the continued presence of a Painted Bunting in Fulton County, Swainson's Warbler in Calloway County, and Scissor-tailed Flycatchers in Marshall and Bourbon County.

A single White-winged Dove was observed in Hickman (Fulton County) on Tuesday, May 7. The bird was in the area of the grain elevator complex on the south side of town in the company of Eurasian-Collared Doves. Other details are not available at this time.

The Painted Bunting near the Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge continues to sing an attempt to establish a breeding territory. Regrettably, no female is known to be in the area. The bird was last observed on Tuesday, May 7, just west of the western most entrance to the Refuge along KY 94. This location is in extreme southwestern Fulton County. This single male
represents the first photographic record of Painted Bunting in Kentucky.

The pair of Scissor-tailed Flycatchers continues to be observed at near the original site in Bourbon County. These birds were last observed on May 4 and apparently require some waiting and searching to locate. This location is just a few miles east of Paris and has been previously described in detail.

Meanwhile, an additional Scissor-tailed Flycatcher was observed in Marshall County along Interstate 24 just west of Kentucky Dam. This bird was seen the overpass for the Gilbertsville Road, KY 282. It is not currently known if this is one of the birds previously observed below Barkley Dam or just north of Grand Rivers on KYK 453 at this time.

A KOS/Beckham Bird Club joint field trip to Mammoth Cave National Park yielded 76 species on May 6. Highlights of these observations include: 1 Gray-cheeked Thrush, 4 Blue-winged Warblers, 1 Golden-winged Warbler, 3 Cape May Warblers, 5 Bay-breasted Warblers, and 1 Kentucky Warbler. There were 18 participants.

The Calloway County spring migration count was held on May 3. Nine (9) participants cumulatively observed approximately 139 species. Highlights of the observations include: over 250 Double-crested Cormorants, four pair of nesting Ospreys, and 28 species of warbler including 2 Swainson's Warbler. The exact location of the Swainson's Warblers is not available.

There have been many other observations of note since the last update. A summary of these observations includes: Bobolinks, Mississippi Kite, Lincoln's Sparrow, and Black-necked Stilts in Fulton County, an American Bittern at the back end of Yatesville Lake in Lawrence County, Bell's Vireo, Henslow's Sparrow, Northern Harrier, and Blue Grosbeaks at the Sinclair Unit of the Peabody Wildlife Management Area in Muhlenberg County, 2 Common Terns above Kentucky Dam in Marshall County, and 40 American Avocets at a wet-weather pond in Caldwell County on May 1.

May 1, 2003

The highlights of this update are: a Painted Bunting in Fulton County, Scissor-tailed Flycatchers in Livingston and Bourbon counties, Marbled Godwits in two (2) locations, and a White Ibis over Lake Barkley.

A Painted Bunting was observed singing in southwest Fulton County this afternoon at about 6:00 PM CDT on April 30. The bird was observed again on the morning of May 1, 2003 about 100 yards from the original location at the intersection of hwy 94 and 1282 at the northwest corner of the Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge. The Delorme Atlas information for this location
is page 74 quadrant H-4.

A single White Ibis was observed on May 1, 2003 flying north along Lake Barkley at about mile 40 on the navigation charts. The bird MAY be roosting at the Kuttawa Egret Rookery Island and observers should be aware of this potential.

A single Scissor-tailed Flycatcher was observed on KY 453 between Interstate 24 and US 62 a few miles north of Grand Rivers and Land Between the Lakes on April 27th. The next day, 2 birds were observed at the same location. This is the same location where a pair of birds nested last year near the limestone quarry entrance. It is not presently known if this is the same individual observed below Barkley Dam on April 20, 2003 near the restroom on the east side of the Cumberland River.. The DeLorme Atlas coordinates for this location are page 60, quadrant H-2.

The Scissor-tailed Flycatcher reported in Bourbon County on Sunday, was observed again later that same day. Additional information obtained from local residents indicates that Scissor-tailed Flycatchers have nested in this general location for the past 3 years in a nearby Sycamore tree. Directions to this location are posted on the April 27th update. The location is on String-town Road, about ¾ mile north of its junction with the Cane Ridge Road, east of Paris. The DeLorme Atlas information for this bird is page 38 quadrant C-4.

On April 28th 2 Marbled Godwits were observed flying north over Lake Barkley. These birds were not observed on the ground. However, 43 Willets were observed on the jetty near the heron rookery island near Kuttawa in Lyon County. On the same day, 2 Surf Scoters and 2 Franklin's Gulls were observed above Kentucky Dam. American White Pelicans were observed in the Barkley Dam area on April 27th.

On Saturday, April 26th, a single Marbled Godwit was observed at the Minor Clark Fish Hatchery in Rowan County. This bird was between ponds 20 and 21. It was reported to be difficult to find, but quite approachable. There is no updated information on this individual.

April 30, 2003

The highlights of this update are: a Painted Bunting in Fulton County, Scissor-tailed Flycatchers in Livingston and Bourbon Counties, Marbled Godwits in two (2) locations, and selections from spring migration reports.

A Painted Bunting was observed singing in southwest Fulton County this afternoon at about 6:00 PM CDT. The observation was of a singing at the intersection of hwy 94 and 1282 at the northwest corner of the Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge. The Delorme Atlas information for this location is page 74 quadrant H-4.

Rose-breasted Grosbeaks have made a dramatic entry into the state over the weekend. On Sunday and Monday, at least 6 reports of the species from across the state have poured in to the bird line. Scattered reports of Grasshopper Sparrows are also increasing in number. The "Flatwoods" in Pike County yielded the first spring reports of Golden-winged Warbler and
Chestnut-sided Warbler on April 29th. Other species reported recently for the first time include Eastern Wood-Peewee, Warbling Vireo, and Yellow-breasted Chat.

April 29, 2003

The highlights of this update are: Scissor-tailed Flycatchers in Livingston and Bourbon Counties, Marbled Godwits in two (2) locations, and selections from spring migration reports.

April 27, 2003

The highlights of this update are: a Scissor-tailed Flycatcher in Bourbon County, an Upland Sandpiper in Warren County, and a brief report on birds observed at the Kentucky Ornithology Society spring meeting.

A Scissor-tailed Flycatcher was observed on Sunday, April 27th in Bourbon County. The bird was an adult male and was photographed. This location is east of Paris on Stringtown Road about 1 mile north of its junction of KY 537 (Cane Ridge Road). The bird was observed on a perched on a wire farm fence. The Kentucky De Lorme Atlas information for this location is page 38, quadrant C-4.

An Upland Sandpiper was observed on April 24, an Upland Sandpiper was observed at Meng Pond in Warren County. Meng Pond is merely a farm pond located across Joe Meng Road from the now dry McElroy Lake just north of Woodburn on the former Meng farm. The De Lorme Atlas information for this location is page 81, quadrant B-7.

The spring meeting of the Kentucky Ornithological Society was held at Blue Licks State Resort Park along the Nicholas/Robertson county line on April 25-27. At least 103 species were observed by various individuals in attendance. A partial list of highlights includes: Common Loon, a partially albino Red-tailed Hawk, Broad-winged Hawk, Bald Eagle, Osprey, Forster's Tern, Wood Thrush, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Yellow-throated Vireo, Blue-winged Warbler, Northern Parula, Yellow-throated Warbler, Summer Tanager, and Orchard Oriole.

April 22, 2003

The highlights of this update are: Scissor-tailed Flycatcher below Barkley Dam, Upland Sandpiper in Barren County, and spring migration reports.

A single Scissor-tailed Flycatcher was observed below Barkley Dam on April 20, 2003. The bird was observed near the restroom on the east side of the Cumberland River below the dam. This is the same general area where a pair of Scissor-tailed Flycatchers raised at least one (1) brood last year.

An Upland Sandpiper was observed in northeastern Barren County on April 14, 2003. No other details are available for this individual.

Spring migration is picking up steam with many species reported for the first time this week. A partial list these species includes Caspian Tern, Chuck-Will-Widow, Cliff Swallow, Eastern Kingbird, House Wren, Warbling Vireo, Red-eyed Vireo, Philadelphia Vireo, White-eyed Vireo, Wood Thrush, Blue-winged Warbler, Yellow Warbler, Kentucky Warbler, Nashville Warbler, Yellow-throated Warbler, Cerulean Warbler, Prothonotary Warbler, Ovenbird, Worm-eating Warbler, Summer Tanager, Scarlet Tanager, Orchard Oriole, Baltimore Oriole, and Blue Grosbeak. Most of these species have been
reported from a variety of locations from across the state.

Shorebirds continue to move through the state. On April 19, eight (8) species of shorebird were observed at the Sloughs WMA including 225 Lesser Yellowlegs and 65 Greater Yellowlegs. Soras were also noted that day. On April 22, Clifty Pond in Pulaski County hosted five (5) species of common shorebird including unspecified numbers of Greater and Lesser Yellowlegs, Spotted Sandpiper, Solitary Sandpiper, and Wilson's Snipe. Morgan's Pond in Christian County continued to hold some water as of April 16 and hosted seven species of shorebird including unspecified numbers of Dunlin. Three (3) other species of shorebird were in the general area including Semipalmated Plover. Also on April 16 at the Obion WMA in Fulton County, a Stilt Sandpiper, a Short-billed Dowitcher and about 400 common shorebirds were present.

Other birds of interest reported this week include 2 American Bitterns at Chaney Lake in Warren County, about 75 American White Pelicans above Barkley Dam, and unspecified numbers of Great Egret, Cattle Egret, Snowy Egret, and Little Blue Heron at the Kuttawa rookery island in Lake Barkley.

April 14, 2003

The highlights of this update are: a report on the recent field trip to the Sloughs Wildlife Management Area and returning spring migrants and summer residents.

On Saturday, April 12, 22 observers recorded 76 species in and adjacent to the Sloughs Wildlife Management Area in Henderson County. Highlights of the KOS/Beckham Bird Club joint trip included 2 Virginia Rails, 15+ Soras, 2 American Bitterns, 3 Great Egrets, 3 Adult Bald Eagles and some eaglets, 2 Vesper Sparrows, and unspecified numbers of American Pipits. Eleven species of waterfowl and 8 species of shorebird were also observed.

Little Bee Rock, in eastern Pulaski County, recorded the first reports of the season for Hooded Warbler, Yellow-throated Vireo, and Broad-winged Hawk on April 14. Other species of interest observed include Northern Parula, Black-and-White Warbler, Pine Warbler, Blue-headed Vireo, Black-throated Green Warbler, Blue-headed Vireo, and Ruffed Grouse.

Other species were also reported for the first time of the season recently, including a Northern Parula in Hancock County on April 7, a Ruby-throated Hummingbird in Calloway County on April 7, Chimney Swifts in Logan County on April 9, and a Prairie Warbler in Livingston County on April 13.

McElroy Lake is now dry, but small numbers of American Golden Plover, American Pipit, Greater Yellowlegs, Least Sandpiper, Pectoral Sandpiper, Wilson's Snipe, American Coot, and Ruddy Duck were observed earlier this week. Minor Clark Fish Hatchery in Rowan County also produced a few waterfowl earlier this week including a few Bufflehead, Red-breasted Merganser, and Wood Duck. Double-crested Cormorants, a Bonaparte's Gull, and a Green Heron were also observed.

April 5, 2003

The highlights of this update are various reports of spring migrants and returning summer residents.

Spring migration is well underway with a number of summer residents and spring migrants reported since the most recent update. These reports come from across the state.

Returning water birds and related species reported recently include American White Pelican, Green Heron, Osprey, Caspian Tern, and several species of common shorebirds.

Two species of goatsucker have been reported in the state thus far. These are Common Nighthawk in Lexington and Whip-poor-will in west-central locations.

Several species of passerine have returned to the state. A partial list includes Eastern Phoebe, Barn Swallow, Tree Swallow, Northern Rough-winged Swallow, Fish Crow, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, Blue-headed Vireo, Louisiana Waterthrush, Black-throated Green Warbler, Pine Warbler, Black-and-White Warbler, and Chipping Sparrow.

Eurasian Collared Doves have been confirmed with an auditory observation of a single bird in Frankfort. This represents a new confirmed location in the state for this invasive species. Eurasian Collared-Doves have also been observed recently in Russellville and Plano.

February 24, 2003

The highlights of this update are numerous reports of migrating Sandhill Cranes, the return of water to McElroy Lake in Warren County, and uncommon gulls in the Barkley Dam Area.

Sandhill Cranes are returning north through Kentucky in force. There have been several reports of birds moving through Kentucky this week including:

A night migration of birds that lasted a full 20 minutes over Edmonson County,
Three reports from Grayson County, one, a flock of unspecified numbers, another of 100 birds in the air, and a 3rd of 200 birds on the ground,
2 birds on the ground in Logan County,
About 175 birds on the ground at McElroy Lake in Warren County with over 400 birds on the ground a few days later, and
A report of several hundred birds feeding on the ground near the Barren/Metcalfe County line.

Over seven (7) inches of precipitation in the month of February has put some water into Lake McElroy and other transient lakes in southern Warren County. On February 22, 15 very early Pectoral Sandpipers, a Dunlin, the Sandhill Cranes noted above, and 12 species of common waterfowl were observed. Unspecified numbers of Lapland Longspur, Horned Lark, and American Pipit have also been observed at McElroy Lake recently. Nearby Walton Stable Pond also is hosting waterfowl, most notably a pair of Greater White-fronted Geese on February 20. Lake levels are expected to rise for the next several
days with waterfowl numbers likely to increase over that time period.

On February 20th, three (3) uncommon gulls were observed in the Kentucky Dam/Barkley Dam area along with other species of note. A first winter Thayer's Gull and a second winter Lesser Black-backed Gull were observed below Barkley Dam. Above the dam over a several mile stretch of upper Lake Barkley were about 350 American White Pelicans, 1 female Black Scoter, and unspecified numbers of Greater Scaup and more common diving waterfowl. Also in the area was an adult Lesser Black-backed Gull at the industrial pond near Calvert City in Marshall County.

On February 19, a few species of waterfowl were observed on Barren River Reservoir including 11 Red-breasted Mergansers and 8 Common Goldeneyes. Similarly, Yatesville Lake, in Lawrence County, has produced observations of a few waterfowl species including unspecified numbers of Canvasback.

Other observations of possible interest over the last week include:

Wild Turkeys in several counties,
2 Lapland Longspurs in Boone County,
1 Horned Grebe in Rowan County,
Fox Sparrow in Calloway and Grayson Counties,
Eurasian Collared-Doves in Simpson and Logan Counties,
A Pine Warbler in Calloway County,
American Woodcocks in Hart County, and
And 2 Purple Finches in Harrison County.

February 17, 2003

The highlights of this update are: returning Sandhill Cranes and reports from scattered locations in Kentucky.

Sandhill Cranes have been reported migrating northward in number for the first time in 2003. There have been at least 2 reports including about 275-300 birds observed in migration above Mammoth Cave National Park and about 45 birds at Falls of the Rough State Park. Other harbingers of spring include a "performing" American Woodcock at Mammoth Cave NP, a Pine Warbler in Daviess County, and a Dunlin and 12 Least Sandpipers at Blood River embayment in Calloway County.

On February 15, several species of bird were observed at the Long Point Unit of the Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge and surrounding area of Fulton County. Highlights of these observations include unspecified numbers of Greater White-fronted Geese and Snow Geese, 7 Wood Ducks, 6 Hooded Mergansers, 3 species of puddle duck, 2 Bald Eagles, and 3 Rusty Blackbirds. On the same date, about 20 Eurasian Collared-Doves were observed in Hickman.

On February 12, several species of bird were observed at the Sloughs Wildlife Management Area in Henderson County. These included unspecified numbers of Snow Geese, Greater White-fronted Geese, Canada Geese, Northern Pintails, and Hooded Mergansers. Two immature (2) Bald Eagles were also observed.

Other birds of interest reported recently include Fox Sparrow at Warren and Grayson Counties, and a Redhead, Winter Wren and Hermit Thrush in Warren County.

February 4, 2003

The highlight of this update is the first report of returning Sandhill Cranes.

Kentucky received its first report of Sandhill cranes returning from the south this week. On February 2nd a flock with unspecified numbers was observed "flying north" over Edmonson County. Then on February 4th, 2 birds were heard in Jefferson County.

On February 1, Golden Eagle and a mature Bald Eagle were observed at Taylorsville Lake. The Golden Eagle was observed for about 5 minutes eating the carcass of a large mammal and was presumably scavenging. On January 12, an immature Golden Eagle and 2 Bald Eagles were observed in the same general area.

On February 1st, a joint Beckham Bird Club/KOS field trip visited the Peabody Wildlife Management Area in Ohio County. 16 observers recorded 48 species of bird including Ross's Goose, Short-eared owl, Rough-legged Hawk, and Northern Harrier.

Other birds of interest reported this week include: 275 Black Vultures at Falls of the Rough State Park, unspecified numbers of Black-crowned Night-Herons in Fayette County, and a Bald Eagle at Lake Peewee in Hopkins County.

January 27, 2003

The highlights of this update are a Long-tailed Duck on the Ohio River at Covington, the possible return of Black-capped Chickadees to eastern Kentucky, and the absence of Rufous Hummingbirds in Kentucky.

A single female Long-tailed Duck was located near Fink's Restaurant in Covington on the Ohio River in Campbell County. The bird was observed by several observers from January 24th through January 26th. Other species present nearby included small numbers of Bufflehead, Common Goldeneye, and Redhead. An American White Pelican was also observed at this location on January 24th but was missed on January 25th. Somewhat further upstream from this location, at the Watertown Yacht Club, a single immature male White-winged Scoter and female Greater Scaup were observed on January 25th.

Black-capped Chickadees have possibly returned to far eastern Kentucky this year. A report, in need of further verification, has reached the Kentucky Bird line from Pike County. Photographs have been obtained and known Carolina Chickadees are present as well. These birds are at the feeder of Joan Carr.

The Louisville Rufous Hummingbird has apparently departed and was last observed on January 22nd. On more difficult note, the Rufous Hummingbird attending a feeder in Danville has died. This individual died on January 24th amidst the sub-zero nighttime temperatures of the coldest weather to hit Kentucky in 7 years.

Reports from the Ohio River at Louisville remain unspectacular. On January 26th, 8 species of common waterfowl were present including 12 Hooded Mergansers, 1 Common Merganser, 10 Canvasbacks, and 2 Greater Scaup.

A good number of gulls and waterfowl remain in the Kentucky Dam/Barkley Dam/Upper Lake Barkley area. The gulls move around with water level and gate activity on the dams, but presently, mostly inhabit islands on upper Lake Barkley. On January 22nd, 3000+ Ring-billed Gulls, 200+ Bonaparte's Gulls and about 30 Herring Gulls were observed in the area. Common
waterfowl were also observed including the usual Lesser Scaup, 400+ Common Goldeneyes, 150+ Hooded Mergansers, and 75+ Rudy Ducks. 6 Common Mergansers remain on Honker Bay, further upstream from the larger concentration of
waterfowl.

In other bird notes, Brown Thrashers have been reported from Madison, Pike, and Allen Counties while Pine Warbler, Eastern Phoebe, Hermit Thrush, Wilson 's Snipe, American Woodcock, and Eurasian Collared-Dove were observed in Calloway County, an Eastern Phoebe was observed in Garrard County, and a Bald Eagle was seen in Edmonson County.

January 21, 2003

The highlights of this update are: the continued presence of a Rufous Hummingbird in Danville, a Ross's Goose at the La Grange Reformatory, and Lapland Longspurs in Gallatin County.

A Rufous Hummingbird continues to attend a feeder in Danville at the home of Neil and Ginny Eklund. Despite extreme cold and the bird was continuing to make regular visits to the feeder as of January 16, 2003. Persons wishing to observe this bird should contact the Eklunds for more information.

A Ross's Goose was observed in the company of numerous Canada Geese at the La Grange Reformatory Lake in Oldham County on January 17th and again on January 20th. On the later date, a small number of Snow Geese were also reported. Other species present included Mallard, American Black Duck, Northern Shoveler, Green-winged Teal, Lesser Scaup, and American Wigeon.

Two (2) Lapland Longspurs were observed on January 20th on Steele's Bottom Road in Gallatin County in the company of a large flock Horned Larks. Further details of this observation are not available.

Other observations of interest recently include: six (6) species of waterfowl and unspecified numbers of Bald Eagles at Cave Run Lake, a Winter Wren at the Minor Clark Fish Hatchery, a Rusty Blackbird in Pulaski County, nine (9) Chipping Sparrows at Wolf Creek Dam (Lake Cumberland) and an Eastern Screech Owl in Fayette County.

January 15, 2003

The highlights of this update are: American White Pelican, Northern Saw-whet Owl, and Merlin.

Approximately 12 American White Pelicans were observed on Lake Barkley from the old Silo area on Land between the Lakes on January 11th. Other birds in the area that day included Brown Creeper, Winter Wren, and 3 Bald Eagles. On December 13th, 55 American White Pelicans were observed on Lake Barkley in the Hurricane Creek area. Other birds in that general area included Double-crested Cormorant, Bonaparte's Gull and Herring Gull.

On January 12th, 1 Northern Saw-whet Owl responded to a tape at Little Lick, in the Daniel Boone National Forest in Pulaski County. Ironically, more common species were not observed. The Ano Strip mines in Pulaski County produced a single Merlin, an Eastern Screech-Owl and numerous Northern Harriers on January 13th.

Other birds of possible interest reported recently in Kentucky include 6 Common Mergansers on Honker Lake in LBL and 2 Common Goldeneye on the Ohio River at Louisville.

January 10, 2003

The highlights of this update are: 2 lingering Barn Swallows at the Paradise Ash Basin, a summary of recently reported Christmas Bird Counts, and a summary of a US Fish and Wildlife Survey of areas in Hickman County.

2 Barn Swallows remained at the Paradise Ash Basin as recently as January 6th. The Swallows may occasionally move to nearby lakes so patience may be needed for an observation attempt. It should be noted that one of the Swallows has an extraordinarily light plumage. It has been mistaken by some as a Bank Swallow and as an immature Tree Swallow. This light individual is presumed to be an abnormally light immature.

Several Christmas Bird Counts have reported results within the last week. Highlights of these counts are as follows:

Falmouth, 57 species including 3 Common Loons, 3 Bald Eagles, 1 Merlin, 1 Winter Wren, and 1 Rusty Blackbird,
Natural Bridge, 27 species including 3 Eastern Phoebes, 8 Red-breasted Nuthatches, 3 Brown Creepers, 70 Golden-crowned Kinglets, and 30 Purple Finches,
Sorgho, 63 species including unspecified numbers of Bald Eagle, Winter Wren, Horned Lark, American Pipit, and Lapland Longspur, and
Falls of the Rough, 56 species including 100 Black Vultures, 400 Turkey Vultures, 3 Great Horned Owls, 1 Barred Owl, 1 Loggerhead Shrike, and 1 Marsh Wren.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service conducted an aerial survey of waterfowl in various locations, primarily in Tennessee on January 8th, 2003. The primary location in Kentucky was a part of the Long Point Unit of the Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge. Observed in this unit were approximately 3,000 Greater White-fronted Geese, about 5,300 Canada Geese, 1 Snow Goose, over 31,000 Mallards and smaller numbers of other common waterfowl. The Long Point Unit is partially in Tennessee and presumably some of these individual birds were as well.

In addition to the waterfowl survey, the USFWS surveyed Bald Eagles in selected locations. Observed along the Mississippi River between the state line and Hickman were 15 adult and 1 immature Bald Eagles.

Other birds of possible interest observed recently include 4 Rough-legged Hawks over rural Ohio County, a Loggerhead Shrike in Paducah, and Ruby-crowned Kinglets, Chipping Sparrows and Red-breasted Nuthatches at Jenny Wiley State Park.

January 6, 2003

The highlights of this update are: the continued presence of Rufous Hummingbirds at two (2) locations, a Ross's Goose at Reelfoot Lake, a Long-tailed Duck on Kentucky Lake, Thayer's Gull at Barkley Dam, summaries of recent Christmas Bird Counts, and additional information of Trumpeter Swans at the Sloughs Wildlife Management Area.

The Danville Rufous Hummingbird continues to attend the feeder of Neil and Ginny Eklund. The bird was last reported on January 1, 2003 in the early morning hours. The South Park Louisville Rufous Hummingbird also continues to attend a feeder there. This bird was most recently reported from January 2, 2003.

On January 1, 2003, a Ross's Goose was observed at the Long Point Unit of the Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge in Southwestern Fulton County. The bird was associating with unspecified numbers of Greater White-fronted Geese.

On December 27th, a Long-tailed Duck was observed on Kentucky Lake in Marshall County. The bird was observed from private property along KY 1519 in the company of several Common Goldeneyes. On the same date, a single adult Thayer's Gull was observed below Barkley Dam along with numerous individuals of more common species.

The Christmas Bird Count period ended on January 5th. Results from several late counts are summarized below:

Warsaw: 64 species including 1 Black Scoter, 2 Peregrine Falcons, and 29 Common Mergansers,
Burlington: 63 species including 2 Eastern Phoebes, 1 LoggerheadShrike, and 2 Brewer's Blackbirds,
Somerset: 74 species including unspecified numbers of Redhead, House Wren, Chipping Sparrow, and Rusty Blackbird,
Paradise: 80+ species including 2 Great Egrets, 2 Barn Swallows, 1 Sedge Wren, 1 Least Sandpiper, and a Merlin,
Otter Creek: 63 species including a Ross's Goose, a Bald Eagle, and a Brown Thrasher, and
Calloway County: 83 species including 1 Merlin, 5 Dunlin, 9 Least Sandpipers, 14 Wilson's Snipe, 1 Barn Owl, and 4 Eurasian Collared-Doves.

At least 2 of the Trumpeter Swans reported from Soughs Wildlife Management Area on December 17, 2002 appear to be of "wild" origin. Band information on the birds indicates that "two of the birds were wild-hatched by parents which were descendants from several generations of wild birds". The 3 birds observed were hatched in 1999, 2000, and 2001, according to banding data.

Other birds of possible interest include the observation of 3 Bald Eagles on Taylorsville Lake and a Loggerhead Shrike in Logan County.

To view previous updates:

January 2002 - December 2002

January 2001 - December 2001

August 1999 - December 2000

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