Kentucky Rare Bird Alert

Past Updates: January - December 2004

December 20, 2004

Christmas bird counts got underway this week. Highlights of the Land Between the Lakes CBC were 43 COMMON LOONS, 1 immature PACIFIC LOON (in Demumbers Bay), 139 HORNED GREBES, 480 WHITE PELICANS, 119 GREAT BLUE HERONS, 263 COMMON GOLDENEYE, 8 RED-SHOULDERED HAWKS, 27 BALD EAGLES, 1 immature GOLDEN EAGLE, 2 LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULLS, 7 FORSTER’S TERNS, a BROWN THRASHER, and 5 FOX SPARROWS. A LAUGHING GULL was also observed during count week.

Observed during the Nolan Lake CBC were a light phase ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK, lots of BLACK VULTURES, RUSTY BLACKBIRDS, and 8 WILSON’S SNIPE. SNIPE were also mentioned from the Henderson sloughs; as were 10 TUNDRA SWAN observed on the Sauerheber Unit.

There have been several observations of SANDHILL CRANES, the latest coming on December 16 with a single bird observed in Logan County and several hundred observed in flight over Owen County.

Other observations of interest include 40+ CHIPPING SPARROWS observed in Jefferson County, 15-20 CEDAR WAXWINGS in Calloway County, FOX SPARROWS in Owensboro, and 2 RED-SHOULDERED HAWKS at Ravens Run in Fayette County.

December 13, 2004

A decided effort was put forth on Saturday, December 12 to find the NORTHERN SHRIKE that had been previously observed on the Sinclair unit of Peabody WMA. The bird was not found.  The outing did include sightings of COMMON LOON, GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE, and 1 ROSS’ GOOSE, as well as a number of duck species.

Speaking of ducks, little was posted this week other than duck observations. Highlights included good numbers of HOODED MERGANSERS from Lexington, Cave Run Lake, and the Lake Cumberland tailwaters area. BUFFLEHEAD were also observed at all these areas. A single GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE and 49 SANDHILL CRANES were seen in Wayne county, as was a single female RUSTY BLACKBIRD. And a single MUTE SWAN was seen on a small farm pond in Bourbon County.

Finally 3 RUFOUS HUMMINGBIRDS (2 adult female, 1 adult male) were banded this week. 1 each in Cynthiana, Lexington, and Louisville.

November 29, 2004

As of Saturday, November 27, the NORTHERN SHRIKE was still being seen in the Sinclair Unit of the Peabody WMA. This area is located just east of Drakesboro on 176; the entrance is to the right just after a small lake. The territory of the Shrike is considerable, and it may take some time in locating it. Please remember that a permit is needed and can be purchased locally at many stores.

Also observed on the Sinclair unit were:  SEDGE WRENS, HORNED LARKS, and singles of LECONTE’S SPARROW, LAPLAND LONGSPUR, PALM WARBLER, and a fly-over GOLDEN EAGLE. On the Homestead Unit of Peabody WMA, 2 ROUGH-LEGGED HAWKS and 4 CACKLING GEESE were observed.

Along with BALD EAGLES being reported from all the likely places, a GOLDEN EAGLE (2ND YEAR) was reported from the Bernheim Forest. This observation took place off of Harrison Fork Road at the back of Bernheim. Also reported from Bernheim were 2 flocks of SANDHILL CRANES totaling 140 birds. SANDHILL CRANES were also reported form Wayne County.

There were plenty of reports on the presence of waterfowl. Highlights were 3  BLACK SCOTERS, 10 SURF SCOTERS, and 17 RED-BREASTED MERGANSERS on the Ohio River in the Louisville area. 20 RED-BREASTED MERGANSERS were observed at the Barren River Reservoir, along with 55 RUDDY DUCKS and a HORNED GREBE. 11 HORNED GREBES were observed at Waitsboro on Lake Cumberland. Also, large numbers of SNOW GEESE were reported flying over Murray State’s stadium on November 20.

There have been two reports of PURPLE FINCHES, one from Calloway County and the other from Bernheim Forest. A LOGGERHEAD SHRIKE was observed at Barren River Reservoir. LESSER BLACK-BACKED and THAYER’S GULLS were reported from Kentucky Lake Dam. A GRAY CATBIRD was observed along Highway 192, east of Somerset on November 27. 2 LINCOLN’S SPARROWS were also seen on November 27 in Harrison County, and the SELASPHORUS HUMMINGBIRD continues to be observed in Bowling Green.

November 22, 2004

The immature NORTHERN SHRIKE is present in the Sinclair Unit of Peabody Wildlife Management Area. On Saturday, it was observed at the intersection of S1 and S2. This is a half mile to a mile west of the previous location. The Sinclair unit is located east of Greenville; Delorme page 63: D-6, the entrance to the unit is off of 176 to the southwest just past Goose Lake. The area requires a permit that can be purchased at many local stores, and anywhere that sells hunting licenses.

Also noted this weekend at the Henderson Sloughs were 4 TUNDRA SWAN, 1 SNOW GOOSE, and 200 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE. And for the second week in a row a single BLUE-HEADED VIREO was seen in the state; this one in the Capetown Swamp in Louisville. This is a very late bird.

November 18, 2004

The highlight of this update is a NORTHERN SHRIKE. On November 13, a juvenile NORTHERN SHRIKE was observed on the Peabody Wildlife Management Area. Directions to the area of the sighting:

From exit 58 on the Western Kentucky Parkway at Central City, take hwy 431 to Drakesboro.  Turn left at Drakesboro on 176.  Continue for probably a couple of miles to the first gravel haul road to the right.  This is just past a lake on the right and just before an overpass.  Turn right on this gravel road and take an immediate right.  Follow this gravel road up the hill and bear to the right at intersections a couple of times until you reach the intersection with S2 on the hilltop, this will be the highest point in the area.  Not sure if there is a post with S2 marked here, but turn left on S2.  You will then come to a gravel road to the right with a marker S5.  The shrike was observed within a few hundred yards of this intersection along S5 on the hillside to the right of the road. You must have a permit for this area which can be bought at several local stores, and anywhere that sells hunting license. It is hunting season, so wear orange. The bird has not been seen since the 13th, but they apparently have large winter territories, and could still be around.

 A single SNOW BUNTING was also seen in the area. Other notable sightings from throughout the state include:

• 19 BREWER’S BLACKBIRDS , 2 RED-BREASTED NUTHATCHES, and a PINE WARBLER at the Western KY Farm in Warren Co.
• A single BLUE-HEADED VIREO and a NORTHERN SAW-WHET OWL at Little Lick in Pulaski County.
• An adult THAYER’S GULL, and 3 LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULLS at Barkley Dam,
• and a LAUGHING GULL at Kentucky Dam.

November 8, 2004

The first reports of SANDHILL CRANES have come in this week. On November 6, approximately 150 birds were counted in eastern Jefferson County, 200 plus in Green River Lake area, and another 33 in Adair County.

A number of shorebirds are still being reported from the usual areas, but most reports this week center around waterfowl. Highlights include COMMON LOONS seen in good numbers across the state: 28 were counted in the Land Between the Lakes area, 23 on Green River Lake, 25 on Lake Pewee, and smaller numbers from Lake Cumberland, and Barren Reservoir.  RING-NECKED DUCKS were in number with 130 counted at Lake Pewee, over 100 at Barren Reservoir, and a few from Cave Run lake. A single WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE was viewed on the 6th at Conley Bottom Resort, Lake Cumberland. A single ROSS’S GOOSE was reported at the Peabody WMA, Union Hill Road area. HORNED GREBES were viewed both on Green River Lake and Lake Cumberland. An EARED GREBE was seen at the Waitsboro recreation area, Lake Cumberland on November 5. 2 SURF SCOTERS were observed in Wayne County on Lake Cumberland. And a single AMERICAN WHITE PELICAN was photographed at the Minor Clark Fish Hatchery on November 6.

BONAPARTES GULLS are being seen in the likely places, and a single adult LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL was noted at the Kentucky Dam Marina.

At a feeder in Murrray, 2 RED-BREASTED NUTHATCHES were added to the ever growing number of reports on that bird. “A large flock” of LAPLAND LONGSPURS was observed along with AMERICAN PIPITS and HORNED LARKS at the Spindletop Farm in northern Fayette County, and a large number of CEDAR WAXWINGS were reported from a Lexington backyard.

In the lingering category would be a CAPE MAY WARBLER observed on November 2 in Burlington; a BLUE-HEADED VIREO seen in Woodburn (Warren County) also on November 2, and the SELASPHORUS HUMMINGBIRD was still present in Bowling Green.

November 2, 2004

There is nothing too rare to report this week, but some nice birds were reported across the state. The YELLOW-RUMPED WARBLER has made itself known across the state, but it is not the only warbler still being seen. A NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH was reported from Pulaski County on October 31.  An ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLER was seen in Henderson on October 23, and another in the Western Kentucky University woods on October 22.  BLACK-THROATED GREEN WARBLERS have been observed in Pulaski and Warren counties. And 2 AMERICAN REDSTARTS and 2 NASHVILLE WARBLERS  were also seen as late as October 21 in Warren County.

Other birds reported include DARK-EYED JUNCO, WINTER WRENS, RED-BREASTED NUTHATCH, BROWN CREEPER, HERMIT THRUSH, and PURPLE FINCHES. VESPER and SAVANNAH SPARROWS were seen in Little Lick, and at the Peabody Wildlife Management Area; LINCOLN’S SPARROWS were also reported at the Peabody Wildlife Management Area, and 10 FOX SPARROW observed in the sloughs of Henderson. AMERICAN PIPITS were observed at the Minor Clark Fish Hatchery.

A number of late fall migrants were also observed including HOUSE WREN and TREE SWALLOW (Slough's Wildlife Management Area), INDIGO BUNTING (Peabody WMA and Western Kentucky University woods), BLUE-HEADED VIREOS (Pulaski and Warren counties), and ROUGH-WINGED SWALLOWS and an EASTERN WOOD PEWEE on October 23 at the Slough's WMA.

Waterfowl that have been reported include AMERICAN WIGEONS, GADWALL, GREEN-WINGED TEAL, and NORTHERN PINTAIL. These were reported from Cave Run Lake, Big Bone Lick State Park, Peabody WMA, Barren Reservoir, Little Lick, and the Land Between the Lakes area. A RUDDY DUCK was reported from Peabody WMA, as well as a juvenile COMMON LOON.

In the shore bird category DUNLIN were the widest spread bird mentioned, with spottings at the hatchery, Meng’s pond, Jonathon creek, and Peabody. The LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER were seen at the sloughs, and Jonathon Creek;  Blood River contained BLACK-BELLIED PLOVER, BLACK-NECKED STILT,  and SEMIPALMATED, STILT, and WESTERN SANDPIPER. And 2 BAIRD’S SANDPIPER were reported from Peabody.

Finally, BALD EAGLE were seen in the sloughs and the Audubon swamp near Henderson, and a PEREGRINE FALCON was observed in downtown Henderson. A RUFOUS HUMMINGBIRD has stayed in Lexington for a month and the SELASPHORUS HUMMINGBIRD was still present in Bowling Green.

October 18, 2004

The eastern-most report was from the Minor Clark Fish Hatchery. On October 17, PIED-BILLED GREBE, WOOD DUCKS, SNOW GEESE (both phases), OSPREY, BALD EAGLE, DUNLIN, and AMERICAN PIPITS were observed.

At Spindletop Farm in Fayette County, LINCOLN’S SPARROWS and RUBY-CROWNED KINGLETS were observed. Also in Fayette County, at Raven Run, both species of KINGLETS and a WINTER WREN were observed. And in a Lexington backyard, a female RUFOUS HUMMINGBIRD has been present for 2 weeks, and a BLUE-GRAY GNATCATCHER was also tallied.

PINE SISKIN were reported in Richmond (Madison County) and in eastern Jefferson County. In the Bowling Green area, a female/immature SELASPHORUS HUMMINGBIRD made an appearance. Also observed were: 1 MERLIN, EASTERN WOOD PEWEE, BROWN CREEPER, WINTER WREN, BLUE-HEADED and WHITE-EYED VIREOS along with several species of warblers. On October 14 at McElroy Lake (dry), a LAPLAND LONGSPUR was seen.

At Peabody WMA “zillions” of sparrows were reported; I would question the counting. Also observed at Peabody were: 1 ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLER, LINCOLNS and WHITE-CROWNED SPARROWS, TREE SWALLOWS, 1 BALD EAGLE, DUNLIN, 2 pair of GREAT HORNED OWLS calling, and the first DARK-EYED JUNCO to be reported this season.

At Barkley Dam, a single MUTE SWAN was observed, along with RUDDY DUCK, AMERICAN WIGEON, LESSER SCAUP, 1 COMMON LOON, and a FRANKLIN’S GULL. At other locations in the Land Between the Lakes area:

• Observed at Kuttawa were 500+ AMERICAN WHITE PELICANS, RING-NECKED DUCK, LESSER SCAUP, and 2 LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULLS.
• At Eddy Creek, a DUNLIN and STILT SANDPIPER were observed.
• At Kentucky Dam, another LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL was observed.
• Observed at Blood River and Jonathon Creek were a BLACK-BELLIED PLOVER, GADWALL, GREEN-WINGED TEAL, NORTHERN PINTAIL, NORTHERN SHOVELER, BALD EAGLE, BLACK-NECKED STILT, WESTERN SANDPIPER, SEMIPALMATED SASNPIPER, DUNLIN, STILT SANDPIPER, GREATER & LESSER YELLOWLEGS, WILSON’S SNIPE, TREE & BARN SWALLOWS, and a MERLIN.

October 11, 2004

    Kentucky’s winter residents are making a good showing this week. The first mention of a HERMIT THRUSH came from Berea. GOLDEN-CROWNED and RUBY-CROWNED KINGLETS, and BROWN CREEPERS were seen in the Land Between the Lakes area. SWAMP SPARROWS have been observed in Bowling Green, as well as YELLOW-RUMPED WARBLERS as early as October 2. Both WHITE-THROATED and WHITE-CROWNED SPARROWS were observed on October 5th in the sloughs of Henderson County. Several RED-BREASTED NUTHATCH were viewed in Jefferson County.

    Birds of interest that are just visiting include WESTERN SANDPIPER and SANDERLING in the Peabody Wildlife Management Area on October 6th.  WESTERN SANDPIPER and DUNLIN were also seen on the Jonathon Creek mud flats on October 10th. Also on the 10th, an immature BLACK-NECKED STILT was seen at Blood River and a LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL  was seen at Kentucky dam and another at Kuttawa.  In the Bowling Green area, an immature PEREGRINE FALCON was observed on October 8th, as well as SWAINSON’S THRUSH, GRAY-CHEEKED THRUSH, PHILADELPHIA VIREO, LINCOLN’S SPARROW, and WILSON’S WARBLER. In addition, a BLACK-BILLED CUCKOO was observed in Burnside and, on September 29th, a RUFOUS HUMMINGBIRD was photographed in Lexington.

    Highlights of the KOS Field Trip on October 9th to the Henderson Sloughs included: KING RAIL, SORA, STILT SANDPIPER, DUNLIN, LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER, SEDGE and MARSH WRENS, NELSON’S SHARP-TAILED SPARROW, and  LINCOLN’S SPARROW.

     There was also mention of several summer residents still lingering. Included were: INDIGO BUNTING in LBL, and BOBOLINK, GRASSHOPPER SPARROW, BLUE GROSBEAK, DICKCISSEL, TREE SWALLOW, BARN SWALLOW, and ROUGH-WINGED SWALLOW all in Henderson.

September 22, 2004

The LONG-TAILED JAEGER, observed above Kentucky Dam, has not been mentioned since September 11th.  Highlights this week come from the southeastern portion of the state following the fall KOS meeting at Pine Mountain State Resort Park. A partial list of warblers observed during the meeting includes: BLUE-WINGED, TENNESSEE, NASHVILLE,  CHESTNUT-SIDED, MAGNOLIA, CAPE MAY, BLACK-THROATED GREEN, BLACK-THROATED BLUE, BLACKBURNIAN, YELLOW-THROATED, PINE, PALM, BAY-BREASTED, BLACKPOLL, BLACK-AND-WHITE, HOODED, WILSON’S, AMERICAN REDSTART, OVENBIRD, and NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH. Other notable observations included VEERY, RUBY-CROWNED KINGLET, and 2 COMMON RAVENS seen at Kingdom Come State Park.

Other observations from around the state were: RED-BREASTED NUTHATCH in Evergreen Cemetery in Campbell County on September 19, a single SNOW GOOSE in the Masterson Station area of Fayette County, and a RUDDY TURNSTONE on Blood River on September 16. In Grayson County, a LOGGERHEAD SHRIKE was observed in the community of Short Creek. In Laurel County, a flock of about 50 RUSTY BLACKBIRDS was observed, and a single PHILADELPHIA VIREO was seen in Pulaski County.

September 14, 2004

As of Saturday, September 11, the LONG-TAILED JAEGER was still being seen above the Kentucky dam. It has spent much of the time well out in the lake and may take sometime to locate. It is an intermediate juvenile that appears black at a distance. Other notable sighting include a REDDISH EGRET juvenile located on island #1 on the Mississippi River in Carlisle County on September 11, and a PLEGADIS IBIS juvenile seen on willow pond. It was thought to likely be a WHITE-FACED IBIS.

Other birds on interest were 24 BOBOLINKS, as well a single SORA, and a CONNECTICUT WARBLER all in Jefferson County. A female ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK was observed at a backyard feeder in Campbell County, and 4 MISSISSIPPI KITES and 3 SANDERLINGS were observed in Laketon.

September 3, 2004

The LONG-TAILED JAEGER has been present since last weekend above Kentucky Dam. “It spent most of the day a good mile above the dam, and a lot of patience may be needed to find it.  Keep scanning the water for the sitting bird, and the tree line and sky above the tree line for the flying bird.  It appears dark whether flying or on the water.  It was seen chasing gulls several times, and as of mid-afternoon it was resting on the water well over a mile above the dam toward the western side of the lake.”

Other notes of interest are the usual migrants. At the Camp Mines Complex in Union County, 9 AMERICAN GOLDEN PLOVERS were observed along with 1 RUDDY TURNSTONE, 5 BAIRD’S SANDPIPERS, and 1 BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER. A single juvenile COMMON MOORHEN was also observed.

Observed at Mitchell Lake were 3 BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPERS and 50 LEAST TERNS. On the Eddy Creek mudflats east of KY 730 in Lyon County, 8 BAIRD’S SANDPIPERS and a single STILT SANDPIPER were viewed. A single BAIRD’S SANDPIPER was also seen on Blood River.

Warblers are becoming more numerous. In Tom Sawyer State Park in Jefferson County, BLACKBURNIAN, PRAIRIE, BLUE-WINGED, and CANADA WARBLERS were noted this week. Other birds observed in Jefferson County were AMERICAN REDSTART, MAGNOLIA, NASHVILLE, BLACK-THROATED GREEN, CHESTNUT-SIDED, and BLACK-AND-WHITE WARBLERS.

August 31, 2004

We had a state first on Sunday August 29th, the first recorded LONG-TAILED JAEGER was observed above Kentucky Dam. It is described as an intermediate juvenile, and has continued to be seen through Monday evening. Viewing has taken place from the pull offs on the dam.

Of less significance, but still great viewing pleasure: warblers seen in Tom Sawyer Park included BLACKBURNIAN, CHESTNUT-SIDED, PRAIRIE, and AMERICAN REDSTART. Also observed this week  was a single WILLET, and a single LEAST TERN; both viewed on the Blood River in Calloway County.

August 29, 2004

As of 11:00 a.m. EDT, Hap Chambers, Robert Dever, and Nicole Ranalli are studying a jaeger above Kentucky Dam. It is not an adult (either a juvenile or last year's bird). Hap's initial impression is only that it seems to have a short bill. They will be working on the ID. Her cell # is 270/293-5828 if anyone heads that way. It is sitting mostly but has flown a couple of times
and is estimated to be within 1/2 mile of the dam. They are viewing it from one of the pullouts on the dam.

August 23, 2004

Highlights this week include mostly shorebirds. The eastern-most report was from Minor Clark Fish Hatchery near Morehead. 15 BLACK TERNS, as well as LESSER YELLOWLEGS, SPOTTED, WESTERN, LEAST, and SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPERS, and SEMIPALMATED PLOVERS were reported. GREAT EGRETS that visit there in the fall were also observed.

Fishing Creek mudflats also had 6 BLACK TERNS, SEMIPALMATED PLOVER, WESTERN, LEAST, PECTORAL, SPOTTED SANDPIPERS, and 1 STILT SANDPIPER.

Observed at the Sinclair Unit of the Peabody Wildlife Management Area were a LEAST BITTERN, 4 WILLET, 10 CASPIAN TERNS, SEMIPALMATED PLOVER, and the following sandpipers: SOLITARY, SEMIPALMATED, LEAST,  & WESTERN. Both GREATER & LESSER YELLOWLEGS were also observed along with 5 SEDGE WRENS.

Five CASPIAN TERNS and 18 FORSTER’S TERNS were observed at Jonathan Creek, and some of the FORSTER’S TERNS were still in breeding plumage.

A single BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER was observed at Smithland Dam on August 19, 2004. Also observed at the dam were CASPIAN and BLACK TERNS. BLACK TERNS were also observed at Mitchell Lake in Ballard County. Present at Mitchell Lake were also most of the sandpipers previously mentioned along with 1 BAIRD’S SANDPIPER, 8 STILT SANDPIPERS, 1 WILSON’S PHALAROPE, and 1 BLACK-BELLIED PLOVER. At the Westvaco Wildlife Management Area in Carlisle County a RUDDY TURNSTONE was observed along the Mississippi River.

Other signs of migration were noted at Tom Sawyer State Park where COMMON NIGHTHAWKS were observed in large numbers. Also observed were mixed flocks of resident and migrant birds including NORTHERN PARULAS plus CHESTNUT-SIDED, YELLOW-THROATED, and BLACK-AND-WHITE WARBLERS.

July 27, 2004

Summer reports have been slow, but a few interesting observations have been posted.  There have been a few nice breeding bird reports, namely 4 very young BLACK-NECKED STILTS in Fulton County, a juvenile YELLOW-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON and young COMMON MOORHEN in the sloughs of Henderson, and a juvenile BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON at the Peabody Wildlife Management Area.

The first early migrants have made an appearance this month, with an AMERICAN GOLDEN PLOVER, a BLACK TERN, and LESSER YELLOWLEGS showing up in Fulton County during the first week of July. Other birds mentioned were: AMERICAN WHITE PELICAN, DOUBLE-CRESTED CORMORANT, CASPIAN TERN, and LEAST, SPOTTED, PECTORAL, and SOLITARY SANDPIPERS.

 Other notable species include numerous BANK SWALLOWS, and 2 LOGGERHEAD SHRIKES in Fulton County; 2 WILLOW FLYCATCHERS, and a male RING-NECKED DUCK at Peabody WMA, and 2 PEREGRINE FALCONS at the Falls of the Ohio.

July 6, 2004

    There has not been much to report for several weeks, but a few things of interest have been reported:

• A total of 42 BLACK-NECKED STILTS were counted in Fulton County this week, where breeding has taken place. Also observed and mentioned in the same report were 94 GREAT EGRETS, 2 LEAST TERNS, 13 LESSER YELLOWLEGS, and  53 AMERICAN WHITE PELICANS.
• From Pulaski County, 3 RUFFED GROUSE were observed at Bee Rock. Also noted there were 2 SWAINSON’S WARBLERS still in singing mode.
• And speaking of warblers: AMERICAN REDSTARTS were observed in Pike County along with CERULEAN, BLUE-WINGED, and YELLOW WARBLERS. Also in the eastern part of the state, a GREAT BLUE HERON nest with 2 young was observed on the golf course at Pine Mountain State Resort Park.  Also in the news were YELLOW-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON young leaving the nest in Lexington.

Lastly 7 COMMON TERNS were observed on Barren River Reservoir on June 29.

June 9, 2004

The highlights of this update are:

• 4 LEAST TERNS were viewed around the watershed off Husband’s road in Paducah on June 8.  In the Land Between  the Lakes area, 2 COMMON LOONS were observed on June 2, and another was mentioned on the 8th with no location provided. A LAUGHING GULL was also mentioned as being observed in the LBL area with no exact location given.
• On June 6, DICKCISSELS were observed on the grounds of Shaker Village.
• A pair of SCISSOR-TAILED FLYCATCHERS has young in the Calvert City area, and a new sighting of a   SCISSOR-TAILED FLYCATCHER was made on I-24 near the Smithland exit in the Paducah area on June 3.
• Shorebird activity has dwindled, but 23 WHITE-RUMPED SANDPIPERS were observed at Walton’s Pond in     Warren County on June 2, and SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPER and SEMIPALMATED PLOVER were also     observed there. In addition, a likely breeding PIED-BILLED GREBE and a single BLACK-NECKED STILT were     observed at Chaney Lake on June 2.

June 2, 2004

The highlights of this update are:

• Late spring migrants including a single CONNECTICUT WARBLER and a single CANADA WARBLER observed in   Jefferson County. Also observed in Jefferson County last week were 2 PURPLE FINCHES.
• McElroy Lake was host to 15 BLACK-BELLIED PLOVERS, 5 WHITE-RUMPED SANDPIPERS, and 4 DUNLIN on May 24.
• Of interest in the breeding bird category were 2 broods of HOODED MERGANSERS observed at the Ballard Wildlife  Management Areas on May 26.
• A CHUCK-WILL’S-WIDOW  nest was located  in Fleming County this week.
• Two male BOBOLINKS were observed performing flight displays on Stringtown Road in Bourbon County, a Kentucky's  first 2 GOLDEN-WINGED WARBLER nests have been recorded.
• Lastly, on May 26, a MISSISSIPPI KITE was observed on Lower Douglas Lake in Hardin County, and several     BANK SWALLOWS were observed at the Ballard Wildlife Management Area.

May 18, 2004

The highlights of this update are:

• 133 DUNLIN counted on McElroy Lake on May 16. Other shorebirds from the area included SEMIPALMATED      PLOVER, SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPER (whose numbers on gaining on LEAST SANDPIPERS),    WHITE-RUMPED SANDPIPER, STILT SANDPIPER, and both SHORT-BILLED and LONG-BILLED     DOWITCHERS.
• Songbird migrants included a VEERY at Land Between the Lakes, along with MAGNOLIA , BLACKPOLL,      BAY-BREASTED, and MOURNING WARBLERS. At Pine Mountain, 27 CERULEAN, and 39     CHESTNUT-SIDED WARBLERS were counted along with a single ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK.     CONNECTICUT WARBLERS were observed at four locations: Jefferson County, Mammoth Cave, Land Between     the Lakes, and the Bowling Green area. An OLIVE-SIDED FLYCATCHER  was observed in southern Pulaski County on May 12. And as a late note, 3 BLACK SCOTERS were seen on Herrington Lake on May 6. This set a new late date for spring, and was a rare sighting of an adult male BLACK SCOTER.

May 12, 2004

The highlights of this update are:

• With Spring North American Migration Counts taking place this weekend, along with other reports,  the highlights are     many. Spring warblers were reported in good numbers. Those observed in the Mammoth Cave area included:     MOURNING, BLACKPOLL, and PALM WARBLERS. Land Between the Lakes had Golden-winged; Pulaski      County had WILSON’S, SWAINSON’S, BAY-BREASTED, CERULEAN, and AMERICAN REDSTART.     Reported at Ben Hawes State Park (northwest of Owensboro) were: CAPE MAY, PALM, CHESTNUT-SIDED,     NASHVILLE, AMERICAN REDSTART, BAY-BREASTED, and BLACKPOLL. Observed in the Black Mountain  area were 58 CHESTNUT-SIDED WARBLERS, 20 BLACK-THROATED BLUE WARBLERS, 10 CANADA     WARBLERS, and 9 AMERICAN REDSTARTS. In Hart County, a NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH was observed.
• Shorebirds observed during the Calloway County count included WHITE-RUMPED SANDPIPER, as well as     FORSTER’S and LEAST TERNS. Observed in Hart County were SEMIPALMATED PLOVER, SOLITARY     SANDPIPER, and CATTLE EGRETS. Two WILSON’S PHALAROPES,  a DUNLIN, BLACK-BELLIED     PLOVER, and both LONG-BILLED and SHORT-BILLED DOWITCHERS were observed at McElroy Lake. At     Walton’s Pond, 2 WILSON’S PHALAROPES and a male GREEN-WINGED TEAL were observed.    LONG-BILLED DOWITCHERS and many LESSER YELLOWLEGS were observed at Reelfoot Lake.
• Other birds of interest were ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAKS at several locations across the state, BOBOLINKS in  Russellville, Peabody WMA, Fulton Co., and Hart Co. CHUCK-WIILL’S-WIDOWS in Pulaski and Hart counties;     WILLOW FLYCATCHERS at the Peabody Wildlife Management Area and in Pulaski County;  LEAST     FLYCATCHERS were noted at Mammoth Cave and Black Mountain (17); VEERY were seen in numbers on Black     Mt (20), as well as 3 in Jefferson County and 1 at Ben Hawes State Park.  PHILADELPHIA VIREO, and     BLACK-BILLED CUCKOO made the Jefferson county count. And finally a single RUFFED GROUSE was viewed     on Black Mountain.

May 7, 2004

The highlights of this update are:

• With migration in progress, the warblers top the interest chart this week. Several reports of up 29 species in an outing     have occurred in the western part of the state; namely Land Between The Lakes, and Mammoth Cave National Park.     Most of the resident and common transient warblers have been seen with the following highlight birds:     GOLDEN-WINGED, CHESTNUT-SIDED, MAGNOLIA (only one heard), CAPE MAY, BLACKBURNIAN, 2     BAY-BREASTED, BLACKPOLL, and CERULEAN. Of note, there has been no report of an AMERICAN     REDSTART yet.
• Topping the shorebird list would be BLACK-NECKED STILTS. 7 were seen on the 1st  in Obion WMA, and a single  bird was seen in Boone County on May the 2nd. LONG-BILLED DOWITCHERS were mentioned from 3 locations     this week, McElroy Lake, the Sloughs of Henderson, and Paradise steam plant.  McElroy also contained     SEMIPALMATED PLOVER, WHITE-RUMPED SANDPIPER, RUDDY TURNSTONE, SOLITARY     SANDPIPER, BLACK-BELLIED PLOVER, and DUNLIN. A BLACK-BELLIED PLOVER was also heard in     Hickman Bottoms. Observed at Camp Mines Complex in Union County were 2 PIPING PLOVERS, SORAS, 2 AMERICAN BITTERNS, 1 VIRGINIA RAIL, and a single DUNLIN. Another single DUNLIN was seen in Paradise Basin; as well  as CHUCK-WILL’S-WIDOW, and  WHIP-POOR-WILL heard.
• Observed at the Henderson sloughs were 3 KING RAILS (heard only), and at Kuttawa 10 WILLETS of the western   race were observed on the 1st.  MISSISSIPPI KITES have been seen in the Hickman area as well as LBL. And      SCISSOR-TAILED FLYCATCHERS are building a nest on the same power pole they nested on in 2002 in the     Calvert City area.
• In the eastern most portions of the state, VESPER SPARROWS top the list from Pike County.

April 19, 2004

The highlights of this update are:

• The only rare bird reported this week was a single SURF SCOTER in a small pond in Hickman on April 18; this bird is  not likely to stay put. Photos were taken.
• The field trip to the Sloughs of Henderson tallied 81 species, highlighted by 2 LEAST BITTERN, 3 BLACK-NECKED STILTS, and 8 VIRGINIA RAILS. Other birds observed were KING RAIL, SORA, AMERICAN BITTERN,     SEDGE WREN, and 3 BALD EAGLE NESTLINGS.
• Shorebirds mentioned this week (locations include Blood River, Obion Wildlife Management Area, and Long Point): 5   BAIRDS SANDPIPERS, SOLITARY  SANDPIPER, SPOTTED SANDPIPER, 400 plus LESSER    YELLOWLEGS, 700 plus PECTORAL SANDPIPER, 1 WESTERN SANDPIPER, and 1 SEMIPALMATED     PLOVER.
• Other new spring arrivals mentioned for the first time this year were: WOOD THRUSH (Pike County),      WHIPPOORWILL (Hart County), BOBOLINKS (Fulton County), WARBLING and RED-EYED VIREOS (Fayette County),  and BLUE-WINGED, NASHVILLE, and WORM-EATING WARBLERS in Beargrass Creek Nature     Preserve.
• The SPOTTED TOWHEE in McCracken County is still being observed. The location is the west side of KY1321, 2.5  miles north of the junction of KY725 at Cimota City.
• LOGGERHEAD SHRIKES were observed at Ballard Wildlife Management Area and Fulton County.
• The list of wintering birds still being seen include: WINTER WREN (Scott County), RUBY-CROWNED KINGLETS  (Fayette County), RED-BREASTED NUTHATCH (Beargrass Creek), PURPLE FINCH (Berea, Madison County),   HORNED LARKS (Pike County), AMERICAN PIPITS (Ballard WMA), and WHITE-THROATED SPARROW.

April 12, 2004

The highlights of this update are:

• A nice list of new spring arrivals. Observed on April 10 in the Little Lick area of Pulaski County  were YELLOW-THROATED VIREO, BLACK-AND-WHITE, HOODED, AND PRAIRIE WARBLERS, as well as BLACK-THROATED GREEN WARBLERS (52), and a drumming RUFFED GROUSE.
• At Bee Rock in Pulaski County on April 11, newcomers included: SCARLET TANAGER and NORTHERN PARULA. Also seen there were a RED-BREASTED NUTHATCH, HERMIT THRUSH, BLUE-HEADED VIREO, and YELLOW-THROATED, PINE, BLACK-AND-WHITE, NORTHERN PARULA, and BLACK-THROATED GREEN WARBLERS.
• A single PROTHONOTARY WARBLER was observed at Kuttawa Springs on April 10. A WHITE-EYED VIREO was observed at Land Between the Lakes on April 11. VESPER and HENSLOW’S SPARROWS were singing at the  Peabody Wildlife Management Area. Also seen a Peabodye was a light phase ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK. GREAT EGRETS were observed at several locations.
• CHIMNEY SWIFTS were first noted on April 9, and RUBY-THROATED HUMMINGBIRDS were reported on April 11 from 2 locations (Pulaski County and the Reelfoot area). The RUFOUS HUMMINGBIRD in Bowling Green was last seen on April 7, just short of a full 6 month stay.
• HOUSE WRENS returned to a backyard in Harrison County on April 4, and a single GRAY CATBIRD was seen singing in the same place on April 11. EASTERN KINGBIRDS were observed on roadside fences in both Calloway and Lyon counties on April 11.
• Neither the YELLOW-BILLED LOON nor the CALIFORNIA GULL previously observed at Kentucky Lake were  mentioned in reports this week, but  BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT HERONS, OSPREY, COMMON GOLDENEYE, and RED-BREASTED MERGANSERS were. SOLITARY SANDPIPERS and  1 DUNLIN were seen in the Reelfoot area, and 2 TUNDRA SWANS were observed in eastern Fayette County. Lastly, the first WOOD DUCK ducklings were reported to be on the ground this week.

April 7, 2004

The highlights of this update are:

• The first mention of a YELLOW-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON in quite some time was made this week. The single bird was viewed the Highland Creek unit of the sloughs in Henderson. Also seen there was the first  NORTHERN PARULA of the season. Other notables there were: BROWN CREEPER, BLUE-GRAY GNATCATCHER, PILEATED WOODPECKER,  RED-SHOULDERED HAWK, SHARP-SHINNED HAWK, RUBY-CROWNED KINGLET, and YELLOW-THROATED WARBLER.
• Other spring arrivals noted were LOUISIANA WATERTHRUSH, YELLOW-THROATED WARBLER, and GNATCATCHERS in Hart County. And in Lexington a single CLIFF SWALLOW was seen.
• Lastly, the RUFOUS HUMMINGBIRD  of Bowling Green was still present as of April 1.

March 30, 2004

The highlights of this update are:

• The highlight this week is the same as last with the YELLOW-BILLED LOON still being seen in the Camp Currie area, and the CALIFORNIA GULL still in the Ky Dam area. Other birds mentioned in the Land Between the Lakes area were: RED-THROATED LOON, LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL (adult and 1st year), GLAUCOUS (1st year), THAYER’S (1ST year), CASPIAN TERN, and RED-SHOULDERED HAWK. Song birds arriving in the area included: BLUE-GRAY GNATCATCHER,  YELLOW-THROATED WARBLER, PINE WARBLER, and LOUISIANA WATERTHRUSH.
• The Peabody WMA gave up IDs on ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK (dark phase), 4 VIRGINIA RAILS, LECONTE’S SPARROW, AMERICAN BITTERN, MARSH and SEDGE WRENS, and ROUGH-WINGED SWALLOW.
• A BALD EAGLE nest in Fulton County (RV Levee just north of Tennessee line) has hatched 3 young. Web page directions for pictures are: http://www.pbase.com/ol_ciit/
• Other spring arrivals were a BROAD-WINGED HAWK in Plano area, PURPLE MARTINS in Lexington (27th), and a single DOWITCHER in the sloughs of Henderson. 25 PURPLE FINCHES were observed in Grayson County, and a single HENSLOW’S SPARROW was heard in Jefferson County.

Last but not least, the RUFOUS HUMMINGBIRD of Bowling Green is in its 6 month at a backyard feeder.

March 22, 2004

The highlights of this update are:

• The YELLOW–BILLED LOON was still present as of Sunday, March 21, in the same vicinity as before. This location is Delorme p77-7a, at the end of hwgy 962 northeast of Fairdealing. The last sighting was a 3/4 mile walk south of the parking area.
• Other Land-Between-the-Lakes area sightings included: CALIFORNIA, THAYER’S, GLAUCOUS, and 3 LESSER-BLACKED GULLS, at Kentucky Dam. Also a single ROSS’S GOOSE, at least 1 FISH CROW, and 2 BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT HERONS there. The LITTLE GULL was not mentioned this week. Numerous duck species included RUDDY, and COMMON GOLDENEYE. Spring arrivals included TREE, CLIFF, BARN, and NORTHERN ROUGH-WINGED SWALLOWS.
• Other spring arrivals from elsewhere were BLUE-HEADED VIREOS in Red River Gorge and Yahoo Falls on March 17. 1 BLACK-THROATED GREEN WARBLER was noted on March 21 in the Gorge. This ties the early record. Also in the Gorge were 30 PINE WARBLERS, 2 RED-BREASTED NUTHATCHES, 8 GOLDEN-CROWNED KINGLETS, 2 WOOD DUCKS, and 20 EASTERN PHOEBES.
• Other birds of interest noted around the state were: an estimated 2000-2500 AMERICAN WHITE PELICANS, since moved on, at the Ballard WMA (state record), a RED-SHOULDERED HAWK at Hazes Kennedy Park, 9 PURPLE FINCHES at a Grayson County feeder, a RUFFED GROUSE at Yahoo Falls, and again this week a PEREGRINE FALCON in Louisville. The BLACK SCOTER is also still being seen in the Covington area.

March 17, 2004

The highlights of this update are:

• a YELLOW-BILLED LOON first sighted on the 13th, and still being seen, on Kentucky Lake. Directions are: take hgwy 962 north out of Fairdealing (this is just east of Benton). From the gravel parking area at the end of 962 take the ATV trail over the wooded point and down to the gravel shore (Delorme p77, 7A). Afternoons give the best back lighting.
• a LITTLE GULL, and 2 first year GLAUCOUS GULLS in the Kentucky Dam area. And a RED-NECKED GREBE, and a RED-THROATED LOON in the same area as the YELLOW-BILLED LOON.
• On the Peabody Wildlife Management Area, a LECONTE’S SPARROW, 1 SEDGE WREN, and a ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK were observed this week.
• In the Reelfoot area of Fulton County 200 RUSTY BLACKBIRDS, 150 AMERICAN PIPITS, and LESSER YELLOWLEGS were viewed. At the Slough of Henderson, large numbers of RUSTY BLACKBIRDS were seen along with LESSER and GREATER YELLOWLEGS, PECTORAL, and LEAST SANDPIPERS, WILSON’S SNIPE, and a BARRED OWL.
• The first TREE SWALLOWS have been arriving for about a week now. PEREGRINE FALCONS  were seen in Louisville and Lexington this week. And AMERICAN WHITE PELICANS have been noted in several areas.

The highlights of this update are:

• Previously posted birds that are still being seen are: the female BLACK SCOTER in the Covington area, a RUFOUS HUMMINGBIRD in Bowling Green, the SPOTTED TOWHEE in McCracken County, and a number of gulls at Kentucky Dam. Namely a first year GLAUCOUS, an adult THAYER’S, an adult  LESSER BLACK-BACKED, and a LITTLE GULL;  the ICELAND type has not been seen for a few days.
• Also seen in the Ky Dam area were a PACIFIC LOON, a RED-THROATED LOON, and a WHITE-WINGED SCOTER. All of these were viewed from the Camp Currie area. Directions are: From hwy 68-80 at Fairdealing in Marshall County, take hwy 962 east to where it ends at the lake.  From here you can walk up on the hill to the south for a nice view of the lake.  Please be careful and don't get too close to the edge of the undercut bank as it could easily collapse.
• A HARRIS’S SPARROW is visiting feeders in Lovelaceville in southwestern McCracken Co. If you'd like to see the bird, please call Ron and Renee Hooks (270-876-7088).
• Several flocks of AMERICAN TREE SPARROWS were observed at the Peabody Wildlife Management Area (Ken Hopewell area).
• Other birds of mention are: 3 SHORT-EARED OWLS at the PeabodyWildlife Management Area, 3 RED-BREASTED NUTHATCHES at the Red River Gorge, a RUFFED GROUSE and several PINE SISKINS at Pine Mountain State Resort Park, and 1 SAW WHET OWL at the Little Lick area of Pulaski County.
• Also, AMERICAN WOODCOCK  were observed at 3 locations this week: Logan Co, Franklin Co, and Red River Gorge, and SANDHILL CRANES again were mentioned, this time in Warren County.

February 16, 2004

The highlights of this update are:

• A LITTLE GULL seen at Kentucky Dam on February 14. It has not been relocated. Also observed in the Kentucky Dam area were previously mentioned GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULL (1st year), GLAUCOUS GULL (1st year), LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL (2 adults), THAYER’S GULL (1st year), and a THAYER’S/ICELAND (KEMLIEN’S) GULL. A single WHITE-WINGED SCOTER, GADWALL,  LESSER SCAUP, COMMON GOLDENEYE, and RED-BREASTED MERGANSER were also noted.
• Also observed in the Land Between the Lakes area were 17 WHITE PELICANS, 17 BALD EAGLES, 18 NORTHERN PINTAILS, and 150 RING-NECKED DUCKS.
• SANDHILL CRANES were observed twice flying north direction over the Western Kentucky Parkway.
• An AMERICAN BITTERN, 2 COMMON LOONS, and 5 REDHEADS were viewed in the Sinclair Unit of the Peabody Wildlife Management Area.
• A single EASTERN PHOEBE was observed at the Red River Gorge, and 200 +  RUSTY BLACKBIRDS were viewed Wayne County.
• The BLACK SCOTER is still being seen on the Ohio River in Covington.

February 2, 2004

The highlights of this update are:

• The latest cold snap has brought SNOW BUNTINGS to the state. They have been spotted in several locations including the Watertown Yacht Club in Covington, opposite the Petersburg Cemetery on Ky 20, and in NE Louisville about a mile south of the 22/1694 intersection.  LAPLAND LONGSPURS were also seen in this same location, plus in the Burlington area.
• A number of good sparrow species have been observed also. Included were AMERICAN TREE SPARROWS at Paintsville Lake, East Bend Power Plant, and several feeders. 1 LINCOLN’S SPARROW at Beech Grove Ridge west of Somerset.  As well as several observations of CHIPPING and FOX SPARROWS.
• AMERICAN PIPITS were located in multiple areas too, including the Falls of the Ohio, Springs Pay Lake near Science Hill, and on Bailey’s Point (Barren River Reservoir). The PALM WARBLERS were still present at Bailey’s Point, and were seen at McElroy also.
• 3 WINTER WRENS were observed at Paintsville lake below the dam.  At least 30 WILSON SNIPE were seen at Walton’s Pond. And approximately 300 SANDHILL CRANES were viewed at Barren River Reservoir.
• Birds of prey included in this weeks postings were single MERLINS at Walton’s Pond, and in the area of the snow bunting NE Louisville area. And single ROUGH-LEGGED HAWKS at East Bend Power Plant and on Frog Hollow Road near Science Hill.
• Waterfowl included 8 Mute Swans on Paintsville Lake, NORTHERN PINTAILS and several DOUBLE-CRESTED CORMORANTS at the Falls of the Ohio, NORTHERN PINTAILS  at Springs Pay Lake near Science Hill, ROSS’S GOOSE at Griffin Park, CANVASBACK at Griffin Park and Barren River, and REDHEAD at Griffin Park. The BLACK SCOTER is also still present on the Ohio River in Covington.

January 20, 2004

The highlights of this update are:

• A female BLACK SCOTER has been observed several times on the Ohio River at the mouth of the Licking River. The most recent sighting was on January 19.
• A LONG-TAILED DUCK has been viewed several times over the past week on Lake Barkley.  This bird was seen about 2 miles above the dam at the end of the Green Road area.
• Also in the Lake Barkley area in the past week: WHITE PELICAN, THAYER’S GULL, GLAUCOUS GULL, LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL (3 adults),  several hundred BUFFLEHEAD and CANVASBACK,  COMMON LOON, and numerous HORNED GREBES.
• The sloughs of Henderson contained TUNDRA SWAN, GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE, NORTHERN PINTAIL, RING-NECKED DUCK, AMERICAN WIGEONS, NORTHERN SHOVELERS, AMERICAN BLACK DUCK, HOODED MERGANSERS, and AMERICAN COOTS. RING-NECKED DUCKS have also been seen in Griffin Park of southern Warren County.
• The most interesting bird observation of the non-waterfowl variety was 5 PALM WARBLERS in the Barren Reservoir, Bailey’s Point area on January 15.

January 2, 2004

The highlights of this update are:

• A SPOTTED TOWHEE has been seen in McCracken County; first noted on the 30th it was still being seen on the 1st.  It is located on the west side of KY1321, 2.55 miles north of the junction of KY 725 at Cimota City.
• Also seen on News Years Day were 2 LONG-TAILED DUCKS on Lake Cumberland. They were viewed from the boat ramp at the end of Waitsboro Road.
• SANDHILL CRANES  are still passing through; 4 were observed in Russelville on the 1st.
• TRUNDA SWANS are still present on the Henderson Sloughs.
• On Tuesday over 300 RUDDY DUCKS  were seen on Lake Pewee. Mixed in were a few HOODED MERGANSERS and COMMON GOLDENEYES. Earlier in the week, 400 RING-NECKED DUCKS were viewed there also.

Among the 82 species counted in the Ballard County CBC were 270 SNOW GEESE, 35 GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE, 15 BALD EAGLES, 2 WOODCOCKS, 15 RUBY-CROWNED KINGLETS, 67 AMERICANS PIPITS, 25 LAPLAND LONGSPURS, and 3 LECONTE’S SPARROW.

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