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Kentucky Rare Bird Alert
Past Updates: August 1999 - December 2000
December 25, 2000
Highlights of this update include: a large concentration of gulls at
Kentucky Dam, a Laughing Gull at Louisville, and Lapland
Longspurs and Snow Buntings in Shelby County
On December 22, a spectacular congregation of gulls had occurred below
and around Kentucky Dam as the gates were
temporarily opened. Ring-billed Gull numbers were estimated to
be between 20,000 and 50,000. In addition, over 100
Herring Gulls were present as were 5 Lesser Black-backed Gulls (all
adult or 4th winter), and 3 Thayer's gulls, 1 adult, 1
second-winter, and 1 first-winter. At the pond north of Calvert
City, a first winter Glaucous Gull was also observed. About
50 Bonaparte's Gulls above Kentucky Dam completed the presence of 6
species of gulls. The 2 Laughing Gulls reported
here earlier were not relocated. However, a single adult Laughing
Gull was seen on the Ohio River in Jefferson County on the
21st. A birder on the 23rd could not relocate the Glaucous Gull,
but did find at least 1 Thayer's Gull and 1 Lesser
Black-backed Gull in the Kentucky Dam area.
Lapland Longspurs continue to be reported in record or near record numbers.
Since the last update on December 21, 150 +
Lapland Longspurs remain below Kentucky Dam as of December 22 and 16
Longspurs and 2 Snow Buntings were observed
in Shelby County on December 21.
The Bernheim Forrest Christmas Bird Count was held on December 23. Highlights of this count include:
73 species including 1,200 Canada Geese, 3
Snow Geese, and 2 Greater White-fronted Geese,
3 Golden Eagles and a dark morphed "Harlan's"
Red-tailed Hawk,
5 Sandhill Cranes, 1 Eastern Phoebe, 20+ Red-breasted
Nuthatches, &
1 Le Conte's Sparrow, 2 Pine Siskins, 2 Chipping
Sparrows, and a few Lapland Longspurs.
Other birds on note since the last update include a few American Tree
Sparrow in Logan County, 7 Pine Siskins in Lawrence
County, and isolated reports of migrating Sandhill Cranes.
Thursday, December 21, 2000
The highlights of this update include: the results of early Christmas Bird Counts, Northern Goshawk, Lapland Longspurs, Ross' Geese, Snow Geese, Snow Bunting, Laughing Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, & Greater White-fronted Geese.
A single Snow Bunting was located on the Western Kentucky University
Farm in Warren County on December 20. It was associating with a flock
of about 100 Lapland Longspurs. Lapland Longspurs have been reported
in very high numbers from across the state. Counties reporting the
species include Warren, Calloway, Campbell, Gallatin, Jefferson, Marshall,
Lyon, & Simpson. The largest groups of Lapland Longspurs were a flock
of approximately 500 reported in Lyon County below Barkley Dam on December
20 and flocks of about 100 below Kentucky Dam and an additional 100 near
the mulch area of
the Western Kentucky Farm in Warren County on the same date.
A juvenile Northern Goshawk was reported in a flyover along Interstate 75 between London and Corbin on December 14. This bird has not been relocated. The Long-tailed Duck in Bowling Green was again observed on December 16, but was not present yesterday, December 20 and appears to have left the area. A single Ross' Goose and a single Greater White-fronted Goose have been present at Basil Griffin Park in Bowling Green for a number of days, being last observed on December 20.
On December 18, the gates of Kentucky Dam were open causing a large collection of gulls to appear. Highlights were 2 adult Laughing Gulls, and a single adult Lesser Black-backed Gull. A Lincoln's Sparrow was observed below Barkley Dam on December 15.
Highlights of some of the early Christmas Bird Counts have been released and are as follows:
Thursday December 14, 2000
Highlights of this update include the presence of 6 Rufous Hummingbirds at 5 locations throughout the state, 2 Long-tailed Ducks in south-central Kentucky, a Red-throated Loon at Barren River Reservoir, and lingering shorebirds and Tree Swallows at Jonathan Creek.
As of December 9th, a total of 6 Rufous Hummingbirds have been confirmed in Kentucky since the last update of the bird line. Two adult females are visiting feeders at the home of Sam and Bettina Kane on the shore of Kentucky Lake, near Briensburg in Marshall County. Contact information for the Kanes is not available at this time. Previously reported Selaphorous hummingbirds in Meade County and Middletown (Jefferson County) were confirmed to be Rufous Hummingbirds on December 9th as well. The Meade County bird is at the home of Bob and Jackie St. Clair. Birders were welcome to visit this location provided that they call in advance (see November 22 update below for more information). The Middletown bird is not open to birders. Another new location for Rufous Hummingbirds was revealed on the 9th as well. This bird is also located in Jefferson County at the home Jerry and Beth Ashley. Contact information for the Ashley's is not available. All of the birds above are adult females. The 6th Rufous Hummingbird continues to visit a feeder in Rockholds in Whitley County. This bird was last reported on December 10th and is presumed to still be present. Birders are welcome to visit this feeder but are asked to please call Shirley Helton the day before your visit (Ph. 606-549-0120). When you call, Ms. Helton will provide directions to her home.
A Red-throated Loon was observed on December 6th, then again on December 7th at Barren River Reservoir. The bird was located near Mason's Island at the time of the last observation. Also present on December 6th was a Long-tailed Duck of Bailey's Point on the Reservoir. Another Long-tailed Duck was still present as of the 6th at "Limestone Lake" in Bowling Green. This bird is on private property. The property is posted private, no trespassing. However, the brother of local bird enthusiast Tom Durbin owns the property. If approached by the owner, an explanation of your presence will likely allow continued observation. If asked to leave, do so without hesitation. Directions to this location should be available on the KOS Web page as above.
On December 7th, 2 Tree Swallows were noted at Jonathan Creek in Marshall County. On the 9th, 26 Dunlin as well as unspecified numbers of Least Sandpipers, Common Snipe, Forster's Terns and common waterfowl and gulls were also present.
Other bird notes of interest include a Greater White-fronted Goose at
Cooley's Ponds in Wayne County on December 10th, American Pipits in Wayne,
Logan, and Marshall Counties, continued flocks of migrating Sandhill Cranes
across the state, and 11 Bald Eagles on Kentucky Lake. The Eurasian
Collared-Doves visiting a feeder in Russellville have not been seen since
December 3rd when 2 birds were seen briefly.
Wednesday December 6, 2000
The highlights of this update include a staggering fly through of waterfowl associated with the recent snowstorm and the continued presence of a female Rufous Hummingbird in Whitley County.
On December 2nd and 3rd, a northerly wind and associated snowstorm brought a huge number of waterfowl species and individuals to the commonwealth. Including grebes and mergansers, 25 species of waterfowl were reported in the Commonwealth including record number of at least 2 species. Unfortunately, most of these individuals quickly moved on as soon as weather conditions improved. Highlights of the unusual movement of waterfowl include the following:
Other species of possible interest reported this week include Purple Finch from 3 counties, a Pine Siskin in Lawrence County, and 2 Mute Swans in Webster County on December 2nd.
As of Dec. 6, the Rufous Hummingbird reported by Shirley Helton in Rockholds (Whitley County) continues to visit her feeder on a regular basis (particularly in the morning). Ms. Helton has placed a lamp near the feeder to keep the sugar water from freezing. If you'd like to see this hummingbird, call Shirley at 606-549-0120 and she'll give you directions for getting to her home in Rockholds. There has been no further report on the other Selasphorous hummingbird reported earlier in Meade County.
Monday November 27, 2000
Highlights of this update include: Rufous Hummingbird, Long-tailed Duck, Black-legged Kittiwake, Red Knot, and flights of Sandhill Cranes.
A female Long-tailed Duck (Oldsquaw) was located yesterday, November 26th at Limestone Lake in Bowling Green, Warren County. The bird was observed again this morning, November 27th. Directions to Limestone Lake are not available at this time and it appears that it is surrounded by private property.
A Rufous Hummingbird is frequenting a feeder at the home of Shirley Helton in Rockholds (Whitley Co.) The bird is a female and was banded and confirmed to be a Rufous Hummingbird on November 26th. Birders are welcome to visit this feeder but are asked to please call the day before your visit (Ph. 606-549-0120). When you call, Ms. Helton will provide directions to her home.
The Selasphorous Hummingbird in Meade County continues to be present and birders are also welcome to visit this feeder. This bird has not been positively identified to species at this time. The last report on this bird was filed on November 23rd. Directions and phone information to this bird have been posted previously (see November 22 update below).
A Black-legged Kittiwake was observed on Lake Barkley, Lyon County on Saturday, November 25th. The bird was observed sitting on the water south of the campground at Boyd's Landing. The Kittiwake floated behind a point of land and was not relocated.
Finally, a second Red Knot continued its presence at Jonathan Creek embayment as recently as November 24th. This is the second Red Knot of the season at that location. Flocks of Sandhill Cranes continue to cross Kentucky. Flocks should continue to move across the state in the next few weeks.
The Red-throated Loon on Green River Lake was last reported on November 21st. Its continued presence is uncertain. The Pacific Loon reported on Kentucky Lake has not been observed since the last Kentucky Bird Line update.
November 22, 2000
Highlights of this update include: 2 Salasphorus species hummingbirds, the continued presence of Pacific and Red-throated Loons, a Red Knot, and flights of Sandhill Cranes.
A second Selasphorus species hummingbird has been located in
the community of Middletown, east of Louisville. The bird is at a
private residence and is not accessible to the birding public at this time.
As of November 19th, the Meade County Selasphorus species hummingbird
was still visiting a feeder. If you want to see this hummer, you should
call the St. Clair's
ahead of time (between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. only, please, preferably
the day before) to arrange a time, as you must be allowed through a gate
to enter the community. Their phone number is 270/422-3770. The entrance
to Doe Valley Estates is on KY 1638, several miles west of the community
of Muldraugh (which is on US 31W north of Fort Knox). Once inside
the
gate, take a right to follow the main road, go about 1.5 miles to white
fence marking Pine Peak or similar name on the left; take this left, then
a right onto White Pine Lane; the St. Clair's are on left (41); there's
only one other house there; feeder is on back side of house. It is
not known at this time if a banding attempt will take place with either
bird for a positive identification.
The Pacific Loon above Kentucky Dam in Marshall County was observed
again on November 19th, though another observer missed it on November 18th.
This bird is best viewed from private property south of Kentucky Dam Village
State Park. No birder should enter private property to see this bird
without specific permission from the landowner. Also on November
19th,
the Red-throated Loon was again observed from the state marina on Green
River Reservoir. This bird was also missed on November 17th.
On November 19th, a Red Knot was located at Jonathan Creek embayment in Marshall County. This is the second individual of that species in this location this season. Other species observed at Jonathan Creek recently include, Dunlin, Least Sandpiper, Pectoral Sandpiper, Common Snipe, American Pipit, and Lesser Black-backed Gull, and numerous Gadwall.
Sandhill Cranes have been reported flying over the state in large numbers in several locations. Today, approximately 600 were seen flying over Louisville. Thousands of Sandhills were reported over eastern Jefferson County on November 21st and other reports have come in from across the state. Other bird of interest reported since the last update include:
November 16, 2000
Highlights of this update include: Pacific Loon, Red-throated Loon, and a Selasphorus Hummingbird species.
A Pacific Loon was observed yesterday afternoon on Kentucky Lake between 1 & 2 miles upstream from the dam. The bird may be viewable from the sailboat marina near Grand Rivers in Livingston County with morning light. With afternoon light, access to private property is probably necessary unless the bird moves downstream. Two additional loons were observed that should be considered possible Pacific Loons in the same location.
The Red-throated Loon remains on Green River Lake at the state marina as of this afternoon, November 16th. This is a white-cheeked, gray-throated immature as shown in Sibley. It was not with any of the 20-25 scattered Common Loons.
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Sinclair, Doe Valley Estates, Brandenburg, Meade County, have a Selasphorus hummingbird coming to their feeders. The bird has been there for at least a couple of weeks. It appears to be an adult female. If you want to see the hummer, you should call the Sinclairs ahead of time (between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. only, please, preferably the day before) to arrange a time as you must be allowed through a gate to enter the community. Their phone number is 270/422-3770. The entrance to Doe Valley Estates is on KY 1638, several miles west of the community of Muldraugh (which is on US 31W north of Fort Knox). Once inside the gate, take a right to follow the main road, go about 1.5 miles to white fence marking Pine Peak (or similar name, can't recall actually) on the left; take this left, then a right onto White Pine Lane; Sinclairs are on left (41); there's only one other house there; feeder is on back side of house.
November 15, 2000
The highlight of this update is a Pacific Loon on Kentucky Lake.
A Pacific Loon was observed this afternoon on Kentucky Lake between 1 & 2 miles upstream from the dam. The bird may be viewable from the sailboat marina near Grand Rivers in Livingston County with morning light. With afternoon light, access to private property is probably necessary unless the bird moves downstream. Two additional loons were observed that should be considered possible Pacific Loons also this afternoon in the same location.
Other reports of interest include:
November 12, 2000
Highlights of this update include: Red-throated Loon, Northern Saw-whet Owl, and lingering summer residents and migrants.
A Red-throated Loon was observed today on Green River Reservoir from the Green River Marina. The marina is near the Taylor-Adair County line. Further details are not available. A Northern Saw-whet Owl was briefly captured in a mist net operation at the Central Kentucky Wildlife Management Area in Madison County on November 10th. This is the first report of the season of this difficult to find and unusual migrant.
On November 10th, 2 Black Scoters were observed in the Ohio River from Towhead Island, just east of downtown Louisville, in Jefferson County. The following day, the birds were not re-located, but 2 Redheads, 49 Horned Grebes and & 3 Buffleheads were observed above the Falls of the Ohio in Jefferson County. On November 8th, the following species were observed at Jonathan Creek in Marshall County: 2 Long-billed Dowitchers, about 50 Dunlin, 3 Lesser Yellowlegs, about 50 Least Sandpipers, several Pectoral Sandpipers, 1 adult Lesser Black-backed Gull, 1 Greater White-fronted Goose, & about 800 Gadwalls. Similar species plus Forster's Terns were reported from Jonathan Creek on November 9th.
On November 11th, 5 species of waterfowl were observed on Barren River Reservoir including 2 Green-winged Teal, 42 Northern Shovelers, over 50 Lesser Scaup, 4 Buffleheads, & 3 Hooded Mergansers. Also present on that date were about 20 lingering Tree Swallows. These observations were made from the south arm of the lake along the Allen-Barren County Line. Other lingering species reported this week are a very late Rose-breasted Grosbeak in Warren County reported on November 7th & and a late Nashville Warbler observed in Jefferson County on November 11th.
Two American Pipits were observed today at Lake Herndon in Logan County along with 3 Common Snipe. Also in Logan County today were 2 Eurasian Collared-Doves at a feeder on the south side of Russellville.
November 6, 2000
The highlights of this update are the continued presence of a RED KNOT at Jonathan Creek, a White-winged Scoter above the Falls of the Ohio, and a report on the Somerset Bird Club Field trip to Green River Reservoir.
A single RED KNOT continued its presence at Jonathan Creek in southern
Marshall County as late as this afternoon. Also present at the time
were 2 Long-billed Dowitchers. Other species observed recently at
Jonathan Creek include Dunlin, Least Sandpiper, Spotted Sandpiper, Black-bellied
Plover, Pectoral Sandpiper, Common Snipe, Greater Yellowlegs, and Lesser
Yellowlegs. Forster’s Terns and a single Caspian Tern were present
a nearby Blood River in Calloway County this weekend.
A White-winged Scoter was located on the Ohio River near the Falls of the Ohio in Jefferson County on November 4th. Other birds of interest at that time included 1 Franklin’s Gull, over 2,500 American Coots, about 150 Pied-billed Grebes, and small numbers of Horned Grebes, Lesser Scaup and other waterfowl.
On November 4th, the Somerset Bird Club held a field trip to the Green River Reservoir in Taylor and Adair Counties. Observations of the group included over 100 Common Loons, over 2,000 American Coots, a single Bald Eagle, 16 Sandhill Cranes flying over, a Franklin’s Gull, and low numbers of numerous species of waterfowl.
Numerous reports of water birds have been received since the November 4th update. These include single Greater White-fronted Geese at Kentucky Dam, Smithland Dam, and Jonathan Creek, 100+ American White Pelicans above Barkley Dam, 100+ Common Loons + and 50 + Horned Grebes above Kentucky Dam, & 5 Franklin’s Gull at Smithland, in Livingston County
Other birds reported around the state include a Peregrine Falcon in Greenup County, a Grasshopper Sparrow and a Red-breasted Nuthatch in the Peabody WMA in Muhlenberg County, and up to 4 Eurasian Collared-Doves attending a feeder in Russellville (Logan County).
November 4, 2000
The highlight of this update is a Red Knot at Jonathan Creek.
A RED KNOT has been located at Jonathan Creek in Southern Marshall County. The Knot was found at approximately 10:00 AM EST at the mud flat extending north from KY 80. The bird was located on the east side of the mud flat.
Other birds of possible interest reported since the last update include
a lingering Cape May Warbler in Warren County that is approaching the record
late date for the state, Sandhill Cranes flying over Jefferson County,
and 1,000+ Double-crested Cormorants on Lake Barkley near the former Empire
Farm at LBL. Also reported this week are a lingering Green Heron
in Warren County, Tennessee Warblers in Warren and Daviess Counties Snow
Geese in Lyon County, and Eurasian
Collared-Doves in Logan County.
October 30, 2000
Highlights of this update include 2 Black Scoters above Kentucky Dam, and returning winter residents and fall migrants
The end of fall migration is drawing near and the winter season is upon us as reports from across the state indicate a build up of late migrants and winter residents with a reduction in other migrants. Notable exceptions to this were 1 Henslow’s Sparrow reported from the Peabody Wildlife Management Area in Muhlenberg County on October 28th & 1 Barn Swallow in Wayne County on October 26th.
Water birds of interest reported this week included 2 Black Scoters above Kentucky Dam on October 29th. Other birds observed there on that date included 2 Franklin’s Gulls, 1 Lesser Black-backed Gull, several Common Loons, and several Horned Grebes. Also on the 29th, above Barkley Dam, were about 40 American White Pelicans and a mixed raft of Lesser Scaup, Greater Scaup, Ring-necked Ducks, and at least 1 Redhead. Other water birds of interest include the build up of 3,000 – 5,000 Double-crested Cormorants on Lake Barkley, a Cattle Egret at the Minor Clark Fish Hatchery in Rowan County, Forster’s Terns at Jonathan Creek in Marshall County, and Bonaparte’s Gulls on both Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley.
Marsh birds have been reported from both the Peabody Wildlife Management Area in Muhlenberg and Ohio Counties and the Sloughs Wildlife Management Area in Henderson County. Species reported from the Sloughs on October 28th include 1 American Bittern, 2 Marsh Wrens, 2 Sedge Wrens, 1 Le Conte’s Sparrow, and 5 Nelson’s Sharp-tailed sparrows. Peabody yielded at least 1 King Rail, 2 Virginia Rails, 2 Sedge Wrens, 2 Marsh Wrens, 1 LeConte’s Sparrows, 3 Nelson’s Sharp-tailed Sparrows and 2 Lincoln’s Sparrows on the 26th and/or the 28th.
A few shorebirds remain in the Commonwealth. Shorebird highlights from the past week include at least 2 Black-bellied Plovers, 3 Dunlin, and 9 Least Sandpipers at the Paradise Slag Pond in Muhlenberg County and a Greater Yellowlegs in Wayne County. Blood River and Jonathan Creek in Calloway & Marshall Counties, respectively, combined to produce unspecified numbers of Dunlin, Greater Yellowlegs, Dowitcher species, and Least Sandpipers.
Warblers and other early migrant songbirds have essentially left Kentucky.
Exceptions to this include Tennessee Warblers, Orange-crowned Warbler,
Cape May Warbler, Pine Warbler, Blue-headed Vireo and Chipping Sparrows
all reported in small numbers this week. Winter residents or late
migrants reported from various locations across the state included Savannah
Sparrow, Fox Sparrow, Vesper Sparrow, White-throated Sparrow, White-crowned
Sparrow, Dark-eyed Junco, Hermit Thrush, Purple Finch and Red-breasted
Nuthatch.
Completing this report are about 20 American Pipits reported in Wayne
County, a Lapland Longspur in the Peabody Wildlife Management Area, and
Eurasian Collared-Doves in Russellville and Murray. A Single Eurasian
Collared-Dove was observed at a feeder in Russellville (Logan County) earlier
this week. More significant is the first report of birds in Murray,
Calloway County. A definite sighting was reported this week with
reported anecdotal evidence of the species presence in Murray
for approximately 1 year. This represents an additional possible
established location and leaves only Trigg County without a report across
the southern border counties west of Interstate 65.
October 23, 2000
Highlights of this update are returning winter residents and late fall migrants.
The ASH-THROATED FLYCATCHER located in Warren County has not been observed since Monday, October 16th. Like the first observation, this was a brief encounter in which the lower side of the tail feathers were said to be clearly visible. The flycatcher may still be present, but could also have moved on to another location. The bird was last seen from the road on the Western Kentucky Woods off Bennett Road. To reach the location, take exit 4 off the Natcher Parkway and turn south on US 31W. Follow this a very short distance and turn left onto Bennett road. The woods are about 1 mile down Bennett Road and are on the left. A gravel parking lot is available. Any person observing this bird should make a report to the Kentucky Bird Records Committee, as this is bird is currently not on the state checklist. Information on the KBRC is at the end of this transcript.
Late migrants and winter residents are returning to the state in low to high numbers. Birds fitting this category reported from a variety of locations across the state include the following: Horned Grebe, Herring Gull, Bonaparte’s Gull, Red-breasted Nuthatch, Golden-crowned Kinglet, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Swamp Sparrow, Vesper Sparrow, Sedge Wren, Winter Wren, Dark-eyed Junco, Yellow-rumped Warbler, White-throated Sparrow, Savannah Sparrow, Pine Siskin, Blue-headed Vireo, American Woodcock, Lincoln’s Sparrow, Black-bellied Plover, Dunlin, & all species of puddle ducks.
Lingering summer residents and other migrants reported over the last
week include the following species: White-eyed Vireo,
Tennessee Warbler, Nashville Warbler, Magnolia Warbler, Blackburnian
Warbler, Least Sandpiper, Lesser Yellowlegs, &
Yellow-throated Warbler.
Birds reported from this weekend at the Sloughs Wildlife Management
Area in Henderson County include Virginia Rail, Yellow Rail, Sora, King
Rail, Sedge Wren, Marsh Wren, Le Conte’s Sparrow & Nelson’s Sharp-tailed
Sparrow. Other reports of possible interest include 2000+ Double-crested
Cormorants on Lake Barkley on or near electric transmission towers, 3 Eurasian
Collared Doves in Russellville (Logan County), 3 Common Loons at Kentucky
Dam in Marshall/Livingston Counties,
about 30 American White Pelicans above Barkley Dam in Lyon/Livingston
Counties, and a Lark Sparrow near Lake Barkley in Lyon County. The
cormorants were observed from the Empire Farm area of the LBL complex in
Lyon County.
October 15, 2000
Highlights of this update include an ASH-THROATED FLYCATCHER in Warren County and a report on the KOS/Beckham Bird Club field trip to the Sloughs Wildlife Management Area.
A single ASH-THROATED FLYCATCHER has been located in the Western Kentucky University Woods off Bennett road in Warren County. The bird was still present as of about 10:00 AM CDT on Sunday, Oct. 15. To reach the woods, travel on the Natcher Parkway to the Bowling Green/Franklin exit, exit 4. Turn south on US 31W and follow a short distance. Bennett Road is a left turn. Follow Bennett Road about 1 mile past a conservation building to a small wooded area on the left side of the road. The wooded area is part of the Western Kentucky University Farm.
A Beckham Bird Club/KOS field trip to the Sloughs Wildlife management area in Henderson County yielded the following birds of note: 1 Yellow Rail, 5 Virginia Rails, 15 Soras, 3-4 American Bitterns, 4 Nelson’s Sharp-tailed Sparrows, 1 Le Conte’s Sparrow, 4-6 Marsh Wrens, & 2-3 Sedge Wrens.
September 21, 2000
Highlights of this update include: a GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULL at Kentucky
Dam, 5 WOOD STORKS flying over Western McCracken County, a RED PHALAROPE
in Warren County, results of the Eastern Kentucky Bird Club Hawk
Watch, and a wide variety of migrant species.
A first winter GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULL was observed on September 19th
at Kentucky Dam near the ivingston/Marshall County Line. Video was obtained
of this unusual visitor present at a most unusual time of year in the
Commonwealth. FIVE WOOD STORKS were observed leaving Kentucky in western
McCracken County on the morning of September 20th. These birds were
in the process of rising in the air and flying north, giving the impression
that they were moving well into Illinois. The observation was made
from the Electric Energy Inc.coal plant in Joppa, Illinois.
Kentucky's second RED PHALAROPE of the year made a brief visit to Meng Pond in Warren County on September 17th and 18th. The bird could not be located on September 19th. Meng Pond is a livestock pond on the former Meng farm in Warren County just across Meng Road from McElroy Lake, presently dry. Kentucky's first RED PHALAROPE of the year was at Dix Dam in Mercer County and has not been observed since Thursday, September 14th.
Passerine migration seems to be at or near peak. Within the last week, 24 species of Wood Warbler have been reported from many locations. Highlights of Wood Warbler migration include impressive numbers of common species from Capertown Swamp in Jefferson County. A selection of these numbers include: 41 American Redstarts, 22 Magnolia Warblers, 19 Black-throated Green Warblers, 17 Nashville Warblers, & 9 Bay-breasted Warblers.
Warblers have also been reported from Drakes Creek and the Western Kentucky
University Woods in Warren County, the Kleiber Wildlife Management Area
in Owen County, & Mosley's Pond in Logan County. Other nice warbler
species
observed this week included Canada Warbler, Mourning Warbler, Palm
Warbler, Wilson's Warbler, Ovenbird, Blackburnian Warbler, and Golden-winged
Warbler.
Many other passerines are currently passing through Kentucky in addition
to the Wood Warblers. Rose-breasted Grosbeaks have been reported from Warren
and Jefferson counties. Swainson's Thrush has been reported from
several locations including a count of 23 from Capertown Swamp. Other
migrant passerines reported this week include a Veery in Warren County,
a
Ruby-crowned Kinglet in Logan County, Gray Catbirds from several locations,
Empidonax species from several locations, Red-eyed, White-eyed, & Warbling
Vireos, Summer and Scarlet Tanagers, and a House Wren.
The Eastern Kentucky Bird Club held a fall Hawk Watch at Pine Mountain in Bell County over the 4 day period of September 17th through the 20th. Several species of raptors were observed in low numbers. The highlight of the event was the observation of 1,074 Broad-winged Hawks. An additional raptor highlight comes from the Laketon sandbars in Carlisle County where a single Merlin was observed.
Since September 17th, 20 species of shorebird have been reported in the Commonwealth. The most significant of these reports are: a single White-rumped Sandpiper at the Paradise Slag Pond in Muhlenberg County, 56 Sanderlings on a sandbar at Laketon in Carlisle County, 720 Least Sandpipers at Lake Number 9 in Fulton County, 9 Buff-breasted Sandpipers at the Laketon sandbars, and unspecified numbers of Baird's Sandpipers and Western Sandpipers at the Laketon sandbars.
A final noteworthy observation is the continued presence of 6 Scaup above Barley Dam in Lyon County. These birds have apparently summered above the dam. Two or 3 of the scaup are Greater Scaup with the balance being Lesser Scaup.
September 17, 2000
The highlight of this update is a RED PHALAROPE in Warren County.
A RED PHALAROPE was located at Meng Pond in Warren County this morning
by David Roemer. The bird has been video-taped and was present as
of about 10:00 a.m. this morning. There are a couple of ways to get to
Meng Pond. Here's one, going south down I-65 through the automated
speed traps that begin around Cave City:
* Exit 22 off I-65
* Right (north) onto US 231
* almost immediate Left (south) at light onto 884 for about 6
miles. You will pass Basil Griffin Park, Long Rd., Fred Lively Rd.
(in that order).
* Left (east) onto 242 for about 1.3 miles
* straight onto Meng Road as main road makes a sharp left. [If
you miss this "turn" you'll come to Matlock Road and know that you need
to turn around.]
* Meng Road snakes around for 1.4 miles and passes Richards Rd. in
the process
* Meng Pond is on the left, across the road from 1563 Meng Road, by
a black barn and a flat-topped silo. There's a small dirt driveway
on the left just before the barn that will let you pull off Meng Road slightly.
You can walk the few dozen yards down to the pond, which will be clearly
in view at this point.
* This is private property, so try to minimize any disturbance or shouts
of joy.
* The bird is conspicuously white and easy to spot even from a distance.
It was feeding all along the opposite shore of the small pond. It
appears to be a molting juvenile with a light gray back and lines of dark
feathers on the back.
* If you keep going on Meng Road at this point, you'll come to 240
in Woodburn in 3-5 miles, where you can turn R onto 240, cross the RR tracks,
and turn right (north) onto 884 and be headed back the way you came in,
if you didn't feel like turning around and retracing your steps back at
the pond.
September 14, 2000
Highlights of this update include the continued presence of a RED PHALAROPE at Dix Dam and fall migrants.
The RED PHALAROPE at Dix Dam/Brown Power Plant in Mercer County was again reported on Wednesday, September 13th. The bird was observed at close range as late in the day as 12:30 PM EDT. There have been no subsequent updates. Also at Dix Dam on the 13th were small numbers of 6 other shorebird species including 1 Sanderling.
A KOS field trip to Blood River and Jonathan Creek in Calloway County
on September 10th produced at least 12 species of shorebirds including
22 Sanderlings, 2 American Golden Plovers, and unspecified numbers of Stilt
Sandpipers. Other highlights included a Peregrine Falcon, Black-throated
Green Warbler, Northern Parula, American Redstart, Summer Tanager and
Caspian and Forster's Terns.
44 Blue-winged Teal observed at the Minor Clark Fish Hatchery in Rowan County and an additional 47 observed in Warren County serve as a reminder that waterfowl migration is approaching even as we pass the peak of shorebird migration and are nearing the peak of warbler migration. Migrant warbler species reported from the Western Kentucky University woods in Warren County include Chestnut-sided Warbler, Nashville Warbler, Golden-winged Warbler, Magnolia Warbler, Ovenbird, Wilson's Warbler, and Swainson's Warbler.
Birders at Mammoth Cave National Park in Edmonson County recorded 14
species of warblers and 2 migrant thrush species on September 13th.
Warbler highlights included, Golden-winged Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler,
Tennessee Warbler, Blackburnian Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler,
Bay-breasted Warbler, Northern Waterthrush, and Wilson's Warbler.
Adding to the migrant total were Veery and Swainson's Thrush.
Other birds of interest reported since the last update include a Black-bellied Plover along the Meng Road in Warren County and Common Nighthawks in large numbers across the state.
Saturday, September 9, 2000
Highlights of this update include: RED PHALAROPE in Mercer County, TRI-COLORED HERON in Lyon County, reports of WOOD STORK fly overs in Fulton County, Eurasian Collared-Doves in Simpson County, and fall migrants.
A RED PHALAROPE was observed on September 7th and again on September 8th at Dix Dam in Mercer County. This bird may linger, but birders should be advised that a permit is necessary to enter the Dix Dam property. White-rumped Sandpipers were also present on the 8th. On September 5th, a TRI-COLORED HERON was observed landing at the Kuttawa egret roost in Lake Barkley, Lyon County. The observation of this individual occurred as several thousand Cattle Egrets and other similar species were returning to the roost area prior to sunset.
Reports of WOOD STORKS flying over Lake Number 9 in Fulton County have been received during the past week. Birds have not be located roosting in the area as of this update. Eurasian Collared-Doves were again observed at Gold City this week. Up to four individuals seem to be present in this hamlet in northern Simpson County seeming to constitute at least temporary establishment.
At least 20 species of shorebird have been observed in the Commonwealth during the past week. Highlights of these observations include the following species: American Golden Plover, Buff-breasted Sandpiper, Short-billed Dowitcher, Black-bellied Plover, Ruddy Turnstone, Sanderling, Western Sandpiper, Common Snipe, & Baird's Sandpiper.
Locations for the shorebird reports above include: The Falls of the Ohio in Jefferson County, Dix Dam in Mercer County, Minor Clark Fish Hatchery in Rowan County, Blood River and Jonathan Creek in Marshall County, Lake Number 9 and Kentucky Bend in Fulton County, Mississippi River sandbars in Carlisle County, a pond in Warren County. Shorebird migration appears to near at or just past peak for Kentucky.
21 species of Wood Warbler have been reported over the last week as passerine migration begins to pick up. Highlights of the species reported include: Mourning Warbler, Nashville Warbler, Wilson's Warbler, Cape May Warbler, Bay-breasted Warbler, Blackburnian Warbler, Black-throated Blue Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler, Tennessee Warbler, Orange-crowned Warbler, Golden-winged Warbler, & Canada Warbler.
Counties reporting warblers in migration include Warren County, Pike County, Ballard County, Fulton County, Jefferson County and Marshall County. Passerine migration appears to be building to a peak within the next 2 weeks.
Migrating water birds have also been reported from across the Commonwealth. Large numbers of Caspian Terns have been reported from numerous western Kentucky locations. Double Crested Cormorants, Forster's Terns, Black Terns, a single Bonaparte's Gull, a single Franklin's Gull, as well as Blue-winged Teal and Green-winged Teal have also been observed.
Finally, Common Nighthawks are being observed across the state, sometimes in large numbers. Look for these birds flying across fields near dusk or after dark in well-lit areas such as football stadiums.
Monday August 28, 2000
Highlights of this update include Buff-breasted Sandpiper, BLACK-NECKED STILT, and other migrant shorebirds, warblers and passerines.
The ANHINGA previously seen by several observers at Henderson near Audubon State Park was last reported on Saturday, August 19th, at about 10:15 a.m. CDT. This bird may still be present but may have moved on. Future observations of this species should be reported immediately to the Kentucky Bird Line and documented for the Kentucky Bird Records Committee.
The 2 BLACK-BELLIED WHISTLING DUCKS reported from Ballard Wildlife Management Area on Saturday, August 19th could not be relocated the following day. This was despite an extensive search by numerous observers. The Kentucky Bird Records Committee does not yet accept this species and documentation of the sighting is to be forwarded to the Committee for consideration.
Migration highlights since the last update include 2 reports of Buff-breasted Sandpiper. On August 26th, two individuals were observed during a Beckham Bird Club Field Trip at the Falls of the Ohio in Jefferson County and one individual was seen on the same date at a pond on the Meng Road in Warren County. Two BLACK-NECKED STILTS were observed at Lake Number 9 in Fulton County on August 21st along with 1 American Golden Plover and 7 other shorebird species.
Blood River bay on Kentucky Lake in Calloway County has produced impressive shorebird numbers this week including 1 Sanderling, 180+ Pectoral Sandpipers, 60+ Least Sandpipers, 1 Western Sandpiper, 2 American Golden Plovers, and 10+ Semipalmated Sandpipers. Nine species of shorebirds were reported from the area on August 20th, including the individuals previously mentioned.
Other shorebird highlights include impressive numbers of 7 common species and at least 1 Western Sandpiper at Mitchell Lake in the Ballard Wildlife Management Area in Ballard County on August 20th. Also observed this week were 2 Stilt Sandpipers on a pond off Meng Road in Warren County on August 22nd. Five common species of shorebirds and up to 23 Caspian Terns were observed over the past week at the Falls of the Ohio in Jefferson County in addition to the Buff-breasted Sandpipers mentioned at the beginning of this report.
Warbler and passerine migration has picked up this week with all reports coming from Warren County. 14 species of Wood Warblers have been reported this week including Canada Warbler, Wilson's Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Hooded Warbler, and Mourning Warbler. Additionally, a Yellow-bellied Flycatcher was reported from Warren County and a Black-billed Cuckoo was observed in Ballard County this week.
Saturday August 19, 2000
Highlights of this update include a report of Black-bellied Whistling Ducks and an Anhinga.
A report of 2 BLACK-BELLIED WHISTLING DUCKS at Mitchell Lake in the Ballard Wildlife Management Area of Ballard County was received this afternoon. The ducks were observed today, August 19th, at about 4:00 PM CDT. The birds were observed for about 45 minutes at a range estimated to be 40 yards. They were seen near the "duck trap" access road of Mitchell Lake. There is no previous record of this species in Kentucky. If documented and accepted by the Kentucky Bird Records Committee, this would constitute the first record of BLACK-BELLIED WHISTLING-DUCK in the Commonwealth.
The ANHINGA previously reported at the Cypress Swamp north of John James Audubon State Park in Henderson was observed by at least 4 observers today, August 19th. The most recent report was from 10:30 AM CDT.
Friday, August 18, 2000
The highlight of this update is the continued presence of an Anhinga in Henderson County.
An Anhinga remains at a cypress swamp just north of John James Audubon State Park in Henderson this afternoon. The bird, originally found on Thursday afternoon, was observed at least 2 times today, August 18, and as late as 4:20 PM CDT. Today's observations were in the same general area as those made yesterday. Further observations should be reported to the Kentucky Bird Line immediately. Updates will be provided as information warrants.
To reach the site, travel north through Henderson on US 41 as though going to Evansville. After passing Audubon State Park, turn right on the first blacktop road to the right. This road is referred to as KY 414 in the Kentucky County Maps atlas but is not signed as such where you turn. Watch for the cypress swamp on the left and a small gravel pull off. Use extreme caution as the road is heavily traveled and visibility is limited. Additionally, the shoulder is narrow and in places is overgrown with Poison Ivy. At last observation, a short walk west from the pull over to a break in the vegetation was necessary to observe the Anhinga.
Thursday, August 17, 2000
The highlight of this update is an Anhinga in Henderson County.
An Anhinga was spotted at a cypress swamp just north of John James Audubon State Park in Henderson on August 17. The bird was observed briefly then lost. The bird is plumaged as though a female. The bird was relocated a short time later and was seen sitting on a stump near the shore. As of 6:30 p.m. CDT, the Anhinga was near the west end of the open water of the swamp sitting about 200 yards from the shore on a broken tree trunk. Further observations should be reported to the Kentucky Bird Line immediately. Updates will be provided as information warrants.
To reach the site, travel north through Henderson on US 41 as though going to Evansville. After passing Audubon State Park, turn right on the first blacktop road to the right. This road is referred to as KY 414 in the Kentucky County Maps atlas but is not signed as such where you turn. Watch for the cypress swamp on the left and a small gravel pull off. Use extreme caution as the road is heavily traveled and visibility is limited. Additionally, the shoulder is narrow and in places is overgrown with Poison Ivy. At last observation, a short walk west from the pull off to a break in the vegetation was necessary to observe the Anhinga.
Tuesday August 15, 2000
Highlights of this update include Black-necked Stilts, fall migrant passerines and shorebirds, and a Eurasian Collared Dove.
Four Black-necked Stilts reported from Lake #9 in Fulton County highlighted species located in the Kentucky Section of the Fall Shorebird count. 9 species were observed on the count including over 200 Least Sandpipers and over 30 Semipalmated Sandpipers. Two Sanderlings at Jonathan Creek in Marshall County were the other shorebird highlight for the week.
A KOS field trip to Minor Clark Fish Hatchery in Rowan County produced only 5 species of common shorebirds, an Osprey, and a Broad-winged Hawk. Pond levels at the hatchery are not conducive to shorebirds at this time. Similarly, the Paradise Slag Pond in Muhlenberg County produced only 4 species of common Shorebirds, an Osprey, and 3 Double-crested Cormorants.
The Falls of the Ohio in Jefferson County proved to be without shorebirds on August 14th. However, 14 Double-crested Cormorants, 58 Great Blue Herons, 3 Great Egrets, 22 Black-crowned Night-Herons, and 9 Caspian Terns were observed. Other water birds of interest reported over the weekend included 24 Forster's Terns and 125 Ring-billed Gulls at Jonathan Creek and 2 Herring Gulls at Kentucky Dam on the Marshal/Livingston County Line.
Scarce habitat continues to hamper observation of migrating shorebirds.
A single Eurasian Collared-Dove was briefly observed in Russellville in Logan County this weekend. This observation brings the total number of counties with apparently good reports to 9, including all counties along the Tennessee border west of Interstate 65 except Trigg and Calloway Counties.
Fall migration of passerines has begun in Kentucky. This weekend saw reports of Least Flycatcher in Jefferson County and 15 warbler species from Jefferson and Warren counties. Highlights from the warbler species were Canada Warbler, Worm-Eating Warbler, American Redstart, Cerulean Warbler, Northern Parula, Blackburnian Warbler, & Chestnut-sided Warbler. Though some of these species do nest in Kentucky, they were not reported from known nesting areas and are presumed to be migrants.
Tuesday, August 8, 2000
Highlights of this update include additional reports of Eurasian Collared-Dove, continued shorebird migration, and small numbers of summering waterfowl.
Eurasian Collared-Doves were confirmed by photograph to be present near Daysville, a small hamlet in Todd County on August 6. There are at least 3 know individuals including 1 bird of the year. An additional report of 1 bird in Allensville in Todd County is yet to be confirmed. After a news article in the Hopkinsville New Era, at least 4 more reports of Eurasian Collared-Doves from different locations in the city were received. While none of these reports are confirmed, it seems likely that a substantial population of Eurasian Collared-Doves may reside in isolated pockets in that city. The explosion of reports of Eurasian Collared-Doves continues with a new report in Owensboro. This report seems reliable and is of 3 individuals in the area near the Public Library. Finally, 3 Eurasian Collared-Doves were observed last week in Hickman in Fulton County. An unusual dove reported in Central City was confirmed on August 6th to be a Ringed Turtle-Dove and is almost certainly an escaped individual. It is reported here to call attention to the fact the Ringed Turtle-Doves are common escapes and can be easily confused with the Eurasian Collared-Dove.
Shorebird migration continues with at least 11 species reported from 7 locations over the last 2 weeks. Highlights of the shorebird reports include:
Lingering waterfowl continue to be observed at 3 locations in the state. At Barkley Dam in Lyon County, 3 Scaup Species were observed on August 6th; in Ohio County 2 Ring-necked Ducks remain just outside the Peabody Wildlife Management Area off KY 369; and, a single Ruddy Duck remains at the E W Brown Ash Pond in Mercer County.
Black Terns have been reported from Muhlenberg and Warren Counties over the last 2 weeks. Additional Tern species reported recently include unspecified numbers of Least Tern in Fulton County and unspecified numbers of Caspian Tern at Barkley Dam, on August 6th, and 6 Caspian Terns at the Falls of the Ohio in Jefferson County, also on August 6th.
30 Black-crowned Night-Herons were also observed at the Falls of the Ohio on August 6th and Great Egrets have been reported in low numbers from across the state. 5 Mississippi Kites and 7 Loggerhead Shrikes were observed in Fulton County on August 6th.
Finally, 1 Swainson's Warbler was observed at Bee Rock in Laurel County on August 2nd and 5 Henslow's Sparrows were observed on the same date at the Ano Strip Mines.
Friday July 28, 2000
Highlights of this update include EURASIAN COLLARED-DOVES in Hopkinsville and Simpson County, increased numbers of migrating shorebirds, Ring-necked Ducks in Ohio County, and Henslow's Sparrows in Pulaski County.
The presence of 2 more established locations for EURASIAN COLLARED-DOVE was confirmed today. In Hopkinsville, a minimum of 7 EURASIAN COLLARED-DOVES were observed this morning on Merriwood Parkway, a residential street about 1/2 mile southwest of the downtown area. Two EURASIAN COLLARED-DOVES were also confirmed in Gold City in northeastern Simpson County today. Gold City is a settlement of approximately 25 dwellings and a few small businesses. These new locations bring to total of known locations for this species to 6 including: Hickman, La Center, Sedalia, Trenton and the 2 new locations.
Shorebird migration is beginning to heat up. 12 species of migrant shorebirds were reported this week and numbers should build as we progress through July into August. The number of individuals for more common species is also on the increase. Highlights of these reports include: 1 Baird's Sandpiper at the Paradise Slag Pond in Muhlenberg County on July 22nd, 1 Sanderling a the Minor Clark Fish Hatchery in Rowan County on July 23rd, 1 American Golden Plover, 3 Stilt Sandpipers, and 20 Western Sandpipers at a "wet spot" just north of the Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge in Fulton County, and 1 Short-billed Dowitcher along the Meng Road in Warren County.
Other shorebird species reported this week include Least Sandpiper, Semipalmated Sandpiper, Spotted Sandpiper, Pectoral Sandpiper, Lesser Yellowlegs, and Solitary Sandpiper. Most of these species were reported from more that one location. It should be noted that water levels are beginning to fall at Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley. This should cause the development of habitat for shorebirds in the coming weeks that is otherwise scarce this year.
A pair of Ring-necked Ducks was observed again on July 25th in Ohio County adjacent to the Homestead Unit of the Peabody Wildlife Management Area. These birds appear to have summered at that location, but there is no evidence of breeding. Seven Henslow's Sparrows were located in grassy fields near the Mt. Zion community of Pulaski County earlier this week.
The report last week of a possible Black-chinned Hummingbird in Pendleton County has NOT BEEN CONFIRMED. Either the original bird has departed or a mistaken identification was reported.
Thursday, July 20, 2000
Highlights of this update include: EURASIAN COLLARED DOVES in Graves and Todd Counties, a POSSIBLE BLACK-CHINNED HUMMINGBIRD in Pendleton County, and early fall migrant shorebirds.
7 EURASIAN COLLARED-DOVES were discovered on July 17th in Sedalia in Graves County. At least 6 birds were seen and an additional bird heard at this location. Sedalia is a very small town in Graves County. Specific locations within the town are not available, but finding the birds should not be difficult in this town of less than 500 people. This constitutes the 4th known location in the state where establishment of this species is apparent. 5 EURASIAN COLLARED-DOVES were also found in Trenton in Todd County on July 16. This is the second report of this species in Trenton and the birds were again found NW of the junction of KY 848 and US 41. This apparent established group was first located on June 3rd. Other known established locations are La Center in Ballard County and Hickman in Fulton County. Additionally, a POSSIBLE EURASIAN COLLARED-DOVE was reported in Gold City on July 12th.
A POSSIBLE BLACK-CHINNED HUMMINGBIRD has been reported today, July 20, in Pendleton County in Northern Kentucky. Due the extreme difficulty in separating some individuals of this species from Ruby-throated Hummingbirds and the lack of supporting details, further study of this individual is necessary. The Bird Line will be updated immediately if this bird is confirmed to be a BLACK-CHINNED HUMMINGBIRD. There has been only 1 confirmed report of BLACK-CHINNED HUMMINGBIRD in Kentucky in the past.
Shorebird migration is beginning to pick up in Kentucky. Despite almost no habitat due to the extended drought in most of the state, 11 species of shorebird have been reported from various locations across the state. Highlights of these reports include: 3 Sanderlings at EW Brown Power Plant Ash Pond in Mercer County on July 20, 1 American Golden Plover, 3 Semi-palmated Plovers, and 1 Semi-palmated Sandpiper in Western Fulton County on July 17th, and 1 Short-billed Dowitcher and 1 Western Sandpiper along the Ming Road in Warren County on July 12th.
Other locations reporting shorebirds recently have included Guthrie Swamp in Todd County and Minor Clark Fish Hatchery in Rowan County.
The Eastern Kentucky Bird Club conducted a 'Christmas in July" bird count in Lawrence County last week. A total of 68 species were observed including 8 Ruffed Grouse, over 50 Cedar Waxwings, 1 Blue-headed Vireo, and 11 species of Wood Warblers. Other birds of interest reported this week include 2 Least Terns and unspecified numbers of Caspian Terns as well as several Ring-billed Gulls at Smithland Dam in Livingston County and a Black Tern, a male Ruddy Duck and 4 Great Egrets at the Brown Power Plant in Mercer County.
Tuesday, July 11, 2000
Highlights of this update include early migrant shorebirds and the location of a Mississippi Kite nest.
Shorebird migration has definitely begun though numbers are low and habitat is scarce. Checking small farm ponds or other small bodies of water with shallow wet edges might be productive for the next month or more. On July 2, unspecified numbers of Spotted Sandpiper, Least Sandpiper, Greater Yellowlegs, and Lesser Yellowlegs were reported from isolated "wet spots" in Fulton County. On July 9th, a "wet spot" in Fulton County, just north of Phillippy, TN, produced a single American Golden Plover, over 20 Least Sandpipers, 1 Greater Yellowlegs, and 1 Lesser Yellowlegs. On July 8, 5 Least Sandpipers were observed at the Slag Pond of the Paradise Power Plant in Muhlenberg County.
The first known Mississippi Kite nest was discovered on July 2 in the Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge in Fulton County. The nest is located on one of the numerous wooded sections of the refuge. The nest was re-observed on July 8. On that date, 11 Mississippi Kites were observed in Fulton County, as were 51 Great Egrets. Swallows of various species were also reported to be massing in preparation for migration to more southerly locations.
Other reports of interest since the last update include: unspecified numbers of Henslow's Sparrows observed at 3 locations north of Murray in Calloway County, Unspecified numbers of Snowy Egrets in Fulton County on July 2, a Marsh Wren that was heard from the KY 109 bridge over Clear Creek in Hopkins County; 3 Great Egrets in the Sinclair Unit of the Peabody Wildlife Management Area; and a Black-and-White and a Pine Warbler observed in the Bernheim Forest on July 6.
Tuesday, July 4, 2000
Highlights of this update include: a belated report of WHITE-FACED IBIS, a Lark Sparrow in Harrison County, 2 Henslow's Sparrows in Hart County, and summer residents from across the commonwealth.
A WHITE-FACED IBIS was seen and photographed in Shelby County on May 20 and 21. The bird was not relocated on May 22 and has not been reported since. The IBIS was an adult and appears to be the first valid record for WHITE-FACED IBIS in Kentucky. Documentation has been submitted to the Kentucky Birds Record Committee.
A Lark Sparrow was observed in northern Harrison County on July 1. No other details are available at this time. Two Henslow's Sparrows were observed singing today at Cape Middleton in Hart County. This may be a new location for this species in Kentucky.
Common Moorhens have apparently departed from the pond near the entrance of the Vogue Unit of the Peabody Wildlife Management Area in Muhlenberg County. The birds apparently departed sometime in mid-June. A KOS/TOS field trip to the Sinclair and Homestead Units of the Management Area in Muhlenberg and Ohio Counties on June 24, located Henslow's Sparrows, Bell's Vireos, and Willow Flycatchers, the 3 target species. Other species observed on the trip included Blue Grosbeak, Grasshopper Sparrow, Orchard Oriole, Dickcissel, a sub-adult Black-crowned Night-Heron, Northern Harrier, Bank Swallow, Wild Turkey, Northern Bobwhite, and common species of the area. Two Least Terns and a Spotted Sandpiper were observed at the Paradise Slag Pond, also in Muhlenberg County, on June 22. Additional birds from the area include a pair of Ring-necked Ducks and 3 Great Egrets in Ohio County on June 24, a Double-crested Cormorant and an Osprey at Paradise on the 24th, and a Lesser Yellowlegs on the 25th.
Other summer residents have been reported recently from around the state. These include 85 Black-crowned Night-Herons and a possible sub-adult Yellow-crowned Night-Heron at the Falls of the Ohio, Jefferson County, on June 27 and an Acadian Flycatcher at Lake Cumberland on June 24. Several resident species were observed at Wolfe Lick Dam in Russell County on June 24, including Pine Warbler, Northern Parula, Yellow-throated Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Yellow-breasted Chat, Summer Tanager, Orchard Oriole, Yellow-throated Vireo, White-eyed Vireo, and Gray Catbird. TOS members observed Cerulean Warbler, Worm-eating Warbler, Scarlet Tanager, Kentucky Warbler, and Yellow-throated Warbler at Mammoth Cave National Park on the second day of the joint KOS/TOS field trip on June 25. A Northern Parula is reported nesting in residence yard in Pike County.
Wednesday, June 21, 2000
Highlights of this update include: nesting Common Moorhens, Red-breasted Nuthatches, and Black-throated Green Warblers, as well as a few migrant shorebirds and a lingering Ruddy Duck.
Common Moorhens are apparently nesting on the Vogue Unit of the Peabody Wildlife Management Area in western Muhlenberg County. A single adult was observed on June 9th at near the reported nest location in a small pond surrounded by cattails and phragmites.
Red-breasted Nuthatches are again nesting in the Red River Gorge. The current location is in the Rock Bridge area, near the junction of the Swift Creek Trail and the Rock Bridge Loop. A Black-throated Green Warbler nest is also reported in the area.
The E.W. Brown Ash Basin, in Pulaski County, continues to host a Ruddy Duck as of June 17th. Also present on that date were a single Laughing Gull, a Least Sandpiper, and a Semipalmated Sandpiper. On June 10th, 10 Semipalmated Sandpipers were present along with the Ruddy Duck and the Laughing Gull. Two Semipalmated Sandpipers and a single Semipalmated Plover were observed at the Minor Clark Fish Hatchery in Bath County on June 11th, and 2 Common Terns were reported at Meng Pond in Warren County earlier this week.
Common nesting species have been reported from across the state.
Thursday June 7, 2000
Highlights of this update include: EURASIAN COLLARED-DOVES in Todd County and COMMON MOORHEN in Muhlenberg County.
2 EURASIAN COLLARED-DOVES were observed in Trenton on Sunday, June 4. The doves were observed near the junction of US 41 and KY 848 near the railroad crossing on KY 848. If entering Trenton from the north on US 41, take 848 west (left) and travel a few 100 yards to the Rail Road Crossing. The birds were seen in this location. Searching the nearby grain bin operation might also be productive as the birds were heard in this vicinity on the same day. This represents the 4th confirmed location for a report of this species in Kentucky. EURASIAN COLLARED-DOVES are know to be established only at Hickman in Fulton County and La Center in Ballard County
2 COMMON MOORHENS continue to be reported in the Vogue Unit of the Peabody Wildlife Management Area. These birds were most recently observed on Saturday, June 3. Other birds of interest reported from Peabody this week include 4 Bell's Vireos and a pair of Northern Harriers.
Other nesting birds of interest were observed in the Bernheim Forest of Bullitt and Nelson Counties on June 3. Totals included 18 Yellow-billed Cuckoos, 30 Wood Thrushes, 3 Northern Parulas, 10 Worm-eating Warblers, and 10 Hooded Warblers. A pair of Loggerhead Shrikes was reported in Graves County on June 4.
Migration is essentially over in Kentucky, but on May 29 some late migrants were reported from Pulaski County. Reported were 1 Rudy Duck, 1 Dunlin, 1 White-rumped Sandpiper, 18 Semipalmated Sandpipers, and 2 Black Terns.
Monday May 29, 2000
Highlights of this update include: Common Moorhen, Least Bittern, American Bittern, Willow Flycatcher, Alder Flycatcher, Bell's Vireo, Bewick's Wren, Henslow's Sparrow, Connecticut Warbler, Mourning Warbler, Swainson's Warbler and late spring migrants.
2 Common Moorhens were located on the Vogue Unit of the Peabody Wildlife Management Area in Muhlenberg County on May 21 and again on May 28. It is believed that the birds may represent a pair. A Least Bittern was observed at the Sauerheber Unit of the Sloughs Wildlife Management Area in Henderson County on May 21. An American Bittern was observed in the Peabody Wildlife Management Area, Sinclair Unit, in Muhlenberg County off management road S-3 on May 20. The American Bittern was seen feeding in a pond near the road.
Also on May 20 at the Peabody Wildlife Management Area, a total of 18 Willow Flycatchers and 16 Bells Vireos were observed in the Homestead & Sinclair Units in Ohio and Muhlenberg Counties. 3 Bells Vireos were observed on May 28 in the Sinclair Unit and unspecified numbers of Bell's Vireos were reported from the Vogue Unit on May 21. Unspecified numbers of Henslow's Sparrows were found in the Homestead and Sinclair units of the WMA on May 20. Other birds of interest from various units of the Peabody WMA include: 2 Alder Flycatchers on May 21, several Northern Harriers, Orchard Orioles, Grasshopper Sparrows, and Blue Grosbeaks. On May 21, a Dunlin and a Sora were reported from the Paradise Ash/Slag Pond in Muhlenberg County.
Swainson's Warblers have been reported again this week from 2 locations, including McCreary County. 4 individuals were located on May 18 near the confluence of Bear Creek and the Big South Fork of the Cumberland River. 2 additional Swainson's Warbler were found in the Red River Gorge on Swift Creek Camp Trail on May 24. Single Connecticut Warblers have been reported from the Western Kentucky University Conservation Woods off Bennett Road in Warren County on May 20, May 21, and May 24. A Mourning Warbler was located in the same spot on May 24 and 2 Mourning Warblers were found in Jefferson County on May 20. A Bewick's Wren was heard singing 1/2 mile north of Dennis in Logan County earlier this week and a Yellow-Crowned Night-Heron was seen at the Falls of the Ohio in Jefferson County on May 19.
Laughing Gulls have been seen in at least 2 western Kentucky locations this week. On May 25, 2 Laughing Gulls were observed at Smithland Dam in Livingston County and on May 25 while another individual was seen on May 20 at the beach at Kentucky Dam in Marshall County. 12 Least Terns were seen on the Ohio River near Ledbetter in Livingston County on May 25.
Migration is definitely winding down. Reports now are almost exclusively of late migrants. Migrant shore birds with recent reports from various locations include Solitary Sandpiper, Greater Yellowlegs, Semipalmated Plover, Semipalmated Sandpiper, White-rumped Sandpiper, Least Sandpiper, Dunlin, and Pectoral Sandpiper. Migrant passerines and other land bird migrants reported this week include: Yellow-bellied Flycatcher, Olive-sided Flycatcher, Least Flycatcher, Alder Flycatcher, Blue-headed Vireo, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Magnolia Warbler, Bay-breasted Warbler, Pine Warbler, Blackpoll Warbler, American Redstart, Swainson's Thrush and Pine Siskins.
May 18, 2000
Highlights of this update include: WHIMBREL, Franklin's Gull, Swainson's Warbler, Connecticut Warbler, Mourning Warbler, and Olive-sided Flycatcher.
WHIMBRELS have been reported at two (2) locations this week. Today, May 18, fifteen (15) WHIMBRELS were reported at the Brown Power Plant of Dix Dam in Mercer County. On May 15 four (4) WHIMBRELS were observed below Smithland Dam in Livingston County. Also present at Smithland on May 15 were two (2) Franklin's Gulls, and unspecified numbers of Black Tern, Least Tern, Caspian Tern, Common Tern, and Forster's Tern.
Other shorebird and waterbird highlights from across the state this week include the following: Six (6) Ruddy Turnstones at Kentucky Dam Beach in Marshall County, Twenty-seven (27) Short-billed Dowitchers and five (5) Sanderlings from the Falls of the Ohio in Jefferson County, Fifteen (15) Short-billed Dowitchers and three (3) Black-bellied Plovers at Minor Clark Fish Hatchery in Bath County, and 11 Dunlin at the Paradise Slag Pond in Muhlenberg County.
Migrant Flycatchers are moving through the state at this time as well. On May 13 an Olive-sided Flycatcher was found in Jefferson County and a Yellow-bellied Flycatcher and a Least Flycatcher were reported from Pulaski County. Alder Flycatchers were reported from three (3) locations and three (3) separate dates with the most significant report being four (4) individuals in a single field in Warren County.
Other migrants of note reported this week were Mourning Warblers in Warren and Jefferson Counties, Connecticut Warbler, Philadelphia Vireo, Canada Warbler, Cape May Warbler and Mississippi Kite in Warren County, and a Lincoln's Sparrow in Jefferson County. It is now clear from species composition, that passerine migration is well past its peak in Kentucky for the spring season.
Summer residents of interest reported this week included Swainson's Warbler in Pulaski and Calloway Counties, Cerulean Warbler and Henslow's Sparrow in Pulaski County, Bell's Vireo and Grasshopper Sparrow in the Peabody Wildlife Management Area of Muhlenberg County, and Lark Sparrow in Calloway County.
May 11, 2000
The highlights of this update are a report of a possible BICKNELL'S THRUSH at the Falls of the Ohio and migrant shorebirds and other species.
A possible BICKNELL'S THRUSH was seen and heard at the Falls of the Ohio, Jefferson County, on May 11. The bird was described as smaller than a Swainson's Thrush or a Gray-cheeked Thrush and warmer brown than a Swainson's Thrush. The mandible was described as yellow all the way to the tip. The first and third notes of the vocalization were said to be descending.
To reach the Falls of the Ohio in Jefferson County, go north on I-65 across the Ohio River into Indiana. Take exit 0 and follow signs to the Falls of the Ohio State Park. Before you get to the visitor's center there will be a parking lot on the left with a red sign. There are steps that lead down to the fossil bed. Walk out to a sandy area and look upstream toward the dam and you will see a 55-gallon white drum. The bird was seen jumping around in the driftwood near the drum.
Spring migration is near peak. It is possible that the passerine peak passed earlier this week. Highlights reported this week are primarily shorebirds and water birds. A MARBELED GODWIT made a brief appearance at the Falls of the Ohio on May 4. This individual flew after an observation of about 20 minutes and was never relocated. Other recent noteworthy sightings have included 18 American Avocets at the beach at above Kentucky Dam on May 4 and 16 Willets at the same location on May 7.
Fulton County has produced several species of shorebirds and other returning residents and migrants. Shorebird species noted in the area include Short-billed Dowitcher, White-rumped Sandpiper, Dunlin, Semi-palmated Sandpiper, Least Sandpiper, Semi-palmated Plover, Western Sandpiper, Stilt Sandpiper, and other common species. Also reported from Fulton County this week were Mississippi Kite, Fish Crow, Black-billed Cuckoo, Willow Flycatcher, Peregrine Falcon, Snowy Egret, Little Blue Heron, and American White Pelican. EURASIAN COLLARED-DOVES were observed on 2 occasions in Hickman as well.
Fish Crows, Mississippi Kites, and several shorebird species were also reported in the Ballard Wildlife Management Area, Ballard County.
Kentucky Dam, Marshall & Livingston Counties, has also produced highlights. In addition to the Avocets and Willets previously mentioned, a Laughing Gull was reported on May 2 and 2 Common Terns were observed on May 6. A single Common Tern was also observed this week below Barkley Dam, Livingston & Lyon counties.
An immature Surf Scoter was observed at Barren River Reservoir, Barren County, as recently as May 2. The bird has been lingering in the area for at least a week. A single American Bittern was located in Hopkins County as was a Sora, 5 Forster's Terns, and 5 Common Loons. Pulaski County produced a Ruffed Grouse, Lincoln's Sparrows, and 3 Henslow's Sparrows.
Peabody Wildlife Management Area, Muhlenberg County, saw the season's first report of Bell's Vireo on May 3. Henslow's Sparrows were also observed in the area on that date. 2 Virginia Rails and 1 Least Bittern were observed in Hardy Slough Unit of the Sloughs Wildlife Management Area, Henderson County, on May 3.
Other birds of interest reported this week include 3 Alder Flycatchers and Wilson's Warblers in Warren County and a Yellow-bellied Flycatcher at the M. Clarke Fish Hatchery. At least 29 species of warbler were observed in the Commonwealth this week including Canada Warbler, Magnolia Warbler, Cape May Warbler, Blackpoll Warbler, Chestnut-sided Warbler, and Bay-breasted Warbler.
Tuesday, May 2, 2000
The highlights of this update are the continued presence of a WESTERN GREBE at Kentucky Dam and BLACK-CAPPED CHICKADEES in Boyle County plus returning migrants and summer residents.
The WESTERN GREBE was again reported on Sunday, April 30, after being missed by at least 2 observers earlier in the week. The bird was again reported on the east side of the lake. The best chances for locating this bird are from the east "pull-off" on the dam or from the locks.
BLACK-CAPPED CHICKADEES continued their stay at the home of Lin Towler in Boyd County. The most recent report is from Saturday, April 22.
The Kentucky Ornithological Society held its spring meeting last weekend at Henderson. Field trips were taken on Saturday and Sunday to the Sloughs Wildlife Management Area and John James Audubon State Park. Members of the group observed at least 125 species. Some of the birding highlights of the weekend included 2 Black-crowned Night-Herons, several Broad-winged Hawks, Bald Eagles (including young in the nest), 1 Virginia Rail, several Soras, uncounted Semipalmated Plovers, Dunlin, and common sandpipers, and 1 Long-billed Dowitcher. Additional species observed by KOS members included Eastern Wood-Peewee, Great Crested Flycatcher, Winter Wren, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Veery, Swainson's Thrush, Wood Thrush, Gray-cheeked Thrush, approximately 25 species of warblers, both Tanagers, both Orioles, and both Grosbeaks.
Passerine migration is building towards an expected peak in 1 - 2 weeks. Newly reported species this week included Dunlin, Long-billed Dowitcher, Semipalmated Plover, Eastern Wood-Peewee, Common Nighthawk, Bay-breasted Warbler, Magnolia Warbler, Ovenbird, Hooded Warbler, Blackburnian Warbler, Yellow-breasted Chat, Kentucky Warbler, American Redstart, Chestnut-sided Warbler, Worm-eating Warbler, Yellow-billed Cuckoo and Black-billed Cuckoo.
Monday April 24, 2000
The highlights of this update are WESTERN GREBE, AMERICAN BITTERN, CINNAMON TEAL, EURASIAN COLLARED-DOVE, BLACK-CAPPED CHICKADEE, WHITE-WINGED CROSSBILL, and returning spring migrants.
The WESTERN GREBE remains above Kentucky Dam and was last observed on April 16th. The GREBE remains on the east side of the lake between 1/2 mile and 3/4 mile upstream. It is best viewed from the east "pull-off" of the dam or the dam lock. Also at Kentucky Dam on the 16th was a single Lesser Black-backed Gull.
Two AMERICAN BITTERNS were reported this week. The first report is dated April 14th and was in the Peabody Wildlife Management Area off the Wysox Road in Ohio County. Le Conte's Sparrow was also reported from the Peabody Wildlfile Management Area on the same date. The AMERICAN BITTERN was reported on April 20th in a subdivision of Somerset (Pulaski County).
A CINNAMON TEAL drake was again seen at the Sloughs Wildlife Management Area on April 19th. This is presumed to be the same bird reported earlier from the KOS/Beckham Bird Club field trip to the area.
EURASIAN COLLARED-DOVES were reported this week from both known established locations in Kentucky. They were observed on April 11th in Hickman (Fulton County) and on April 22 in both La Center (Ballard County) and Hickman. Birders should be looking for new colonies of this species this spring and summer. It is likely that the species will spread to other locations if it has not already done so.
BLACK-CAPPED CHICKADEES remained at the home of Lin Towler in Boyd County. They were observed on at least 2 occasions this week, most recently on April 22nd.
There has been no positive report on the WHITE-WINGED CROSSBILLS from New Concord in Calloway County since April 16th. It is presumed that these birds may have moved north. A Mute Swan was reported in Scott County, just north of exit 129 on Interstate 75 earlier this week. There has been no further report on this individual. A lingering Short-eared Owl was reported at Open Pond in Fulton County on April 11th.
Spring migration continues to move towards peak with an increase in the number of species and individuals reported. New arrivals this week include Broad-winged Hawk, Great Crested Flycatcher, Golden-winged Warbler, Cape May Warbler, Cerulean Warbler, Black-throated Blue Warbler, Yellow Warbler, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Blue Grosbeak, Henslow's Sparrow, Grasshopper Sparrow, Lincoln's Sparrow, Dickcissel, Indigo Bunting, and Summer Tanager.
A few winter residents continue to remain in the Commonwealth. These include American White Pelican at Barkley Lake, Purple Finch, Pine Siskin, White-throated Sparrow, and Red-breasted Nuthatch.
Sunday April 16, 2000
The highlights of this update are WHITE-WINGED CROSSBILLS in Calloway County, WESTERN GREBE at Kentucky Dam, BLACK-CAPPED CHICKADEES in Boyd County, and a flood of spring migrants and summer residents.
WHITE-WINGED CROSSBILLS have been reported from 2 locations in Calloway County. Both locations are at New Concord, a small community approximately 10 miles SE of Murray on KY 121. The first location is the feeder in the back yard of the Jack Groening family. To reach this location, travel to New Concord from Murray and turn left at the grocery/bait store. The Groenings live in the first house on the right after turning. Visitors are welcome to park in the Groening driveway and walk through the carport to the back porch or to use the yard.
A second feeder with WHITE-WINGED CROSSBILLS is located at the home of Tommy and Shari Sherwood. This location is found by continuing south on 121 from Murray toward Tennessee for 0.8 miles. The Sherwood house is a white farmhouse sitting on a hill on the right side of the road with mailbox number 11155. Visitors are also welcome at this location. The Sherwoods' phone number is 270-436-2127. CROSSBILLS were at both feeders as recently as this morning. The Sherwood feeders are at the side of the house.
The WESTERN GREBE was seen at least twice this week above Kentucky Dam. The most recent report is from April 13.
BLACK-CAPPED CHICKADEES continue to visit a feeder at the home of Lin Towler in Boyd County. These individuals remained present as recently as the morning of April 16. EURASIAN COLLARED-DOVES were observed again in Hickman, Fulton County, on April 9. There has been no report on the CINNAMON TEAL found April 8 on the KOS/Beckham Bird Club Field trip since that time. This bird may or may not be present.
Summer residents and spring migrants are flooding into the state. At total of 9 species of shorebirds, 5 species of Vireos, and 18 species of warblers have been reported this week from various locations across the state. Numbers of early migrants of all types are building. Shorebird habit remains sparse throughout the state, but over 200 American Golden Plovers and 4 Semipalmated Plovers were reported this week in Fulton County.
This week also saw the first reports of the following species: Semipalmated Plover, Spotted Sandpiper, Whip-poor-will, Eastern Kingbird, Wood Thrush, White-eyed Vireo, Red-eyed Vireo, Warbling Vireo, Yellow-throated Vireo, Blue-winged Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Tennessee Warbler, Prothonotary Warbler, Prairie Warbler, Hooded Warbler, Nashville Warbler, Worm-eating Warbler, Ovenbird, Orchard Oriole, Scarlet Tanager, and Indigo Bunting.
Sunday, April 9, 2000
The highlights of this update are CINNAMON TEAL in Henderson County, the continued presence of a WESTERN GREBE at Kentucky Dam, and the brief appearance of a LITTLE GULL on the Ohio River near Cincinnati.
A drake CINNAMON TEAL was located on the KOS/Beckham Bird Club field trip Saturday, April 8 at the Sauerheber Unit of the Sloughs Wildlife Management Area in Henderson County. The bird was in flooded fields adjacent to the impoundment area behind the manager's house and in the company of several Blue-winged Teals. Other highlights from the field trip included 8-10 Soras, a large flock of Rusty Blackbirds, small numbers of Solitary Sandpipers, Least Sandpipers and American Pipits, and several Pectoral Sandpipers, Lesser Yellowlegs, and Greater Yellowlegs. The shorebird species were all reported from Long Point in the Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge, Fulton County, earlier in the week in similar to larger numbers.
The WESTERN GREBE continues to be seen above Kentucky Dam. The most recent report is from Saturday, April 9, again on the east side of the lake.
A LITTLE GULL made a brief appearance on the Ohio River near Cincinnati. This individual was observed on April 4, and has not been observed since.
Migrants and summer residents continue to move into the state. This week saw the first reports of Franklin's Gulls at Markland Dam, Gallatin County, on April 1, plus Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Caspian Tern, and Green Heron. All expected species of swallows are now present in number and at least 7 species of warbler have been reported over the last 2 weeks. Other species building in numbers include Great Egrets, Chipping Sparrows, Blue-winged Teal, and Wood Ducks.
At least one Black-capped Chickadee remained at the Lawrence County location as of April 5. Other winter resident/migrants reported this week include Fox Sparrow, Pine Siskin, Purple Finch, Dark-eyed Junco, and White-throated Sparrow.
Wednesday, April 5, 2000
The highlights of this update are Little Gull near Cincinnati and the continued presence of a Western Grebe at Kentucky Dam.
A LITTLE GULL at was reported on the Ohio River near Cincinnati on April 4 between 10 AM and 2 PM, EDT. The gull could be seen from Newport, KY. It was seen both in Campbell and Kenton Counties on the river. The Little Gull's plumage is in a transitional stage from first winter to first summer. Further details will be provided if received.
The WESTERN GREBE continues to be seen above Kentucky Dam as previously reported. The latest observation was from the east "pull-off" of the Dam on April 5 in the same general location as previously reported
Sunday, April 2, 2000
The highlights of this update are the continued presence of a WESTERN GREBE at Kentucky Dam, GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULL at Barkley Dam, and spring migrants.
The WESTERN GREBE above Kentucky Dam was observed again this week on March 27 and April 1. The Grebe continues to be seen mostly on the east side of the lake well behind the row of buoys. In the early morning, it might be best to attempt to find the GREBE from the dam locks. After early morning, the best location to look is certainly the east pull-off on the dam itself.
The POMARINE JAEGER at Barkley Dam was last reported on March 27. As of April 1, gull numbers at the dams had plummeted from previous numbers. However, all three common species remain in the area and a single adult GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULL was present above the dam.
BLACK-CAPPED CHICKADEES appear to me moving out. Efforts to find the birds at the Lawrence County feeder location produced only 1 previously banded male where previously up to 6 individuals had been seen. The Madison County location has not seen a BLACK-CAPPED CHICKADEE since March 7. The last positive report from Boyd County was March 27.
Spring migration is continuing with new reports almost daily. First reports from this week include: Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, Chimney Swift, Northern Waterthrush, Northern Parula, Black Throated Green Warbler, Black-and-White Warbler, Blue-headed Vireo, Fish Crow, Great Egret, Evening Grosbeak, Gray Catbird, Pectoral Sandpiper, Greater Yellowlegs, and Lesser Yellowlegs. Other reported migrant species include Blue-winged Teal, Cattle Egret, Osprey, Brown Thrasher, Pine Warbler, Yellow-throated Warbler, Louisiana Waterthrush, Yellow-rumped Warbler and American White Pelicans.
Lingering winter residents/migrants reported include Fox Sparrow, Red-breasted Nuthatch, Pine Siskin, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Northern Saw-whet Owl, and numerous species of waterfowl.
Some major shorebird areas in the state are lacking habitat. The Transient Lakes in Warren County have not formed there is little water in the traditional Fulton County locations. Water levels at Lake Barkley and Kentucky Lake are precarious as we enter the migration season. Be sure to check area ponds with suitable habitat during the next few weeks as well as other minor stopover locations for these species.
Sunday, March 26, 2000
The highlights of this update are WESTERN GREBE at Kentucky Dam, POMARINE JAEGER at Barkley Dam, BLACK-CAPPED CHICKADEES at Carter Caves State Resort Park, and returning spring migrants and summer residents.
A WESTERN GREBE was located above Kentucky Dam in Marshall/Livingston Counties on March 21. The bird was observed subsequently on March 22 and March 24, but was missed on March 23 and March 25. It is likely that the bird may still be present. If you try to locate this bird, remember that Kentucky Lake is huge. Be prepared to spend several hours scanning the lake and be aware that the bird has been located between 1/2 mile and 1 mile upstream. All known observations of this bird have been from the dam itself with excellent optical equipment.
A POMERINE JAEGER has been observed above and below Barkley Dam in Livingston/Lyon Counties on March 22, 23 and 24. This bird was also missed on March 25. The JAEGER has been identified as an adult but is described as missing the tail streamers. It has been observed feeding below the dam as well as above the dam.
Two BLACK-CAPPED CHICKADEES were reported from Carter Caves State Resort Park, Carter County. This represents the 4th known location in Kentucky this winter. These birds were observed on March 23. Additionally, BLACK-CAPPED CHICKADEES are still attending a Lawrence County feeder at the home of Marilyn Freidhof.
Other birds of interest reported this week include a first winter GREAT BLACK-BACKED GULL and 2 first winter LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULLS at Barkley Dam on March 22 and a single LESSER BLACK-BACKED GULL on the 24th. A possible EARED GREBE was reported above Barkley Dam on March 25. An AMERICAN BITTERN and a MERLIN were observed in the Peabody Wildlife Management Area, Muhlenberg County, on March 23. A single WESTERN MEADOWLARK was observed and heard to vocalize at the dry bed of McElroy Lake in Warren County.
Spring migration continues to bring in new arrivals daily. This week saw the first reports of BALTIMORE ORIOLE in Grayson County and CLIFF SWALLOW, CATTLE EGRET, and BLACK-CROWNED NIGHT-HERON at Barkley Dam. Species that are beginning to arrive in numbers include AMERICAN WHITE PELICAN, FORSTER'S TERN, PURPLE MARTIN, CHIPPING SPARROW, EASTERN PHOEBE, TREE SWALLOW, BROWN THRASHER, YELLOW-RUMPED WARBLER, PINE WARBLER, and NORTHERN ROUGH-WINGED SWALLOW. A LOUISIANA WATERTHRUSH, BANK SWALLOWS, & BARN SWALLOWS were also reported this week.
A LITTLE GULL was observed just outside our coverage area in Massac County, Illinois, at Mermet Lake Conservation Area. The gull was observed on March 25 in the company of about 50 Bonaparte's Gulls. Mermet Lake is about 15 miles northwest of the I-24 Bridge at Paducah, McCracken County.
Wednesday, March 22
The highlights of this update are a Western Grebe and a Pomarine Jaeger at Barkley Dam.
The Western Grebe reported above Kentucky Dam, Marshall County, was observed this morning and again this afternoon at about 3:00 PM CST at the same location. These observations have come from the pull off areas on US 62 as it crosses the dam. Also observed this afternoon at Barkley Dam (both above and below the dam) was a Pomarine Jaeger. More details will be provided later if the bird remains in the area. In addition, a Lesser Black-backed Gull and a Great Black-backed Gull were observed at Barkley Dam.
An unspecified number of Eurasian Collared-Doves was located this week in La Center, Ballard County in the same general area as previous sightings on Olive Street. Black-capped Chickadees remain at the Boyd County location, but have not been observed at the Madison County location since March 9, 2000.
An influx of early spring migrants has included at least 8 Osprey from 3 locations, mostly on Lake Barkley and Kentucky Lake. Also from Kentucky Lake comes a report of 4 Forster's Terns. Other migrant/summer resident species reported this week include Barn Swallows, Northern Rough-winged Swallows, Purple Martins, Tree Swallows, large numbers of Yellow-rumped Warblers, Common Snipe, and several species of common waterfowl. Lingering winter residents of interest include Red-breasted Nuthatches from several locations, Purple Finches in Boyd County, and Bonaparte's Gulls in Calloway County and Madison County (33 observed on March 21).
Tuesday, March 21, 2000
The highlight of this update is a Western Grebe at Kentucky Dam.
A Western Grebe has been reported by David Roemer above Kentucky Dam, Marshall County. The bird was observed for several minutes on Tuesday, March 21. The bird was viewed at a distance of about 1/2 mile from the dam (eastern pull-off). The grebe was actively feeding in association with a raft of waterfowl that was mostly composed of Red-breasted Mergansers and was observed to fly briefly. The Western Grebe was still present when the observer left at 3:30 PM CST.
More details will be provided later if the bird remains in the area.
Sunday, March 19, 2000
Highlights of this update are the continued presence of Black-capped Chickadees and early spring migrants.
Black-capped Chickadees were confirmed to still be attending 2 feeders as of March 10th. Two individuals were present on that date at the feeder of Lin Towler (606-928-5533) in Boyd County and another 6 were confirmed at the feeder of Marilyn and Scott Freidhof in Lawrence County. No recent report has been received on the Black-capped Chickadees in Madison County at the home of Jeni Hosfeld (606-985-0277). Both the Towlers and the Hosfelds welcome visitors to observe the Chickadees. A phone call in advance of your visit is requested.
Returning migrants reported this week included over 100 Pectoral Sandpipers, Least Sandpipers, Lesser Yellowlegs, Common Snipes, and Forster's Terns from Jonathan Creek, Marshall County. Reported from Blood River in Calloway County were American White Pelican, American Golden Plover, Tree Swallow, and additional Common Snipe. Approximately 40 American White Pelicans were also observed on March 17 above Barkley Dam in Lyon County. Additional migrants/returning summer residents reported from a variety of locations included Solitary Sandpiper, Osprey, Eastern Phoebe, Chipping Sparrow, Tree Swallows, & Pine Siskins.
Lingering winter residents include a report of 1 Northern Saw-whet Owl, Purple Finches, Dark-eyed Juncos, & several species of common waterfowl including 300 Redheads and a few Greater Scaup on Lake Barkley.
Saturday, March 11, 2000
Highlights of this update are Black-capped Chickadees in Madison, Boyd, and Lawrence counties, Northern Saw-whet Owls responding to playback at several locations, and early spring songbirds.
Two Black-capped Chickadees continue at the feeders of Lin Towler, who lives in extreme southwestern Boyd County. Lin's birds have been present since about November 9th, and are still quite reliable. If you want to try for Lin's chickadees, contact her at 606/928-5533 or aabr@wwd.net. Weekends are preferable. Lin lives off Exit 185 of I-64; take KY 3 south from the Interstate for several miles to KY 854; take a right (west) and go a couple of miles to KY 1945 (Jack Fork Road); go two miles to Aaron Road (gravel) to left; Lin's house is at the top of the hill on the right, about ½ mile or so from KY 1945. KY DeLorme Gazetteer p. 41; block 10-B.
Another Black-capped Chickadee is coming to a feeder east of Berea in Madison County at the home of Jeni Hosfeld. Jeni also welcomes visitors (606/985-0277 or fahejeni@mis.net); she is just off US 421 and can give you directions if you call. In addition, at least six Black-capped Chickadees are coming to feeders at the home of Marilyn and Scott Freidhof in Blaine, Lawrence County.
During the past couple of weeks, Northern Saw-whet Owls have responded to playback at the Primitive Weapons Wildlife Management Area near the Peninsula Marina in Barren County, the Central Kentucky Wildlife Management Area in Madison County, and the Bear Creek area of the Big South Fork in McCreary County.
The recent warm weather has greatly reduced the numbers of gulls, including rarities, in western Kentucky, although at least one Lesser Black-backed (second-year) and one Great Black-backed (first- or second-year) have remained in the vicinity of Barkley Dam, along with up to 80-90 American White Pelicans.
Early returning songbirds in the past two weeks have included Purple Martins, Tree Swallows, Eastern Phoebes, and Pine Warblers.
Northbound flocks of Sandhill Cranes continue but the peak is definitely past. A few early shorebirds have shown up in Warren and Fulton counties, but the transient lakes near Woodburn in southern Warren County remain dry.
Sunday, March 5, 2000
Highlights of this update are Black-capped Chickadees in Boyd & Madison counties, gulls and White Pelicans in the Tri-Dam area, Sandhill Cranes in Boyd County, and early spring migrants.
Black-capped Chickadees continue to visit feeders at the homes of Jeni Hosfeld near Berea in Madison County (contact Jeni by e-mail at fahejeni@mis.net for directions to her house if you'd like to see the chickadee) and Lin Towler in extreme southwestern Boyd County. Lin's birds have been present since about November 9th. If you want to try for Lin's chickadees, contact her at 606/928-5533 or aabr@wwd.net.
On March 3rd, David Roemer reported a Lesser Black-backed Gull at Kuttawa on Lake Barkley, & a Great Black-backed Gull (1st or 2nd yr.) in the vicinity of Barkley Dam. Also reported were 80 - 90 American White Pelicans located between Barkley Dam and Kuttawa, and a Peregrine Falcon above the dam (seen from Green Rd.) on Barkley harrassing the ducks and gulls. Several Common Loons are also present on Barkley and Kentucky Lakes, along with increasing numbers of Horned Grebes.
Lin Towler reported 3 Sandhill Cranes in Boyd County on March 3rd & 4th. The cranes were last observed in a corn-stubble field late Saturday afternoon (March 4).
Pine Warblers have been reported at several locations, including Madison County, Lawrence County, and Bernheim Forest. Purple Martin were observed in Calloway County on March 2nd & in Green County on March 5th. Tree Swallows have been observed in Madison County and at the Peabody Wildlife Management Area.
Monday, February 28, 2000
Highlights of this update are Black-capped Chickadees in Madison County & Boyd County, rare gulls & Sandhill Cranes in western Kentucky, and early spring migrants.
A single Black-capped Chickadee is visiting feeders at the home of Jeni Hosfeld near Berea in Madison County (contact Jeni by e-mail at fahejeni@mis.net for directions to her house if you'd like to see the chickadee). Mark Monroe & Chris Leftwich captured, banded, and measured the chickadee on February 27, & those measurements confirmed that the bird is a Black-cap. Also, at least two Black-capped Chickadees continue at the feeders of Lin Towler in extreme southwestern Boyd County. Lin's birds have been present since about November 9th. If you want to try for Lin's chickadees, contact her at 606/928-5533. Weekends are preferable. Lin lives off Exit 185 of I-64; take KY 3 south from the Interstate for several miles to KY 854; take a right (west) and go a couple of miles to KY 1945 (Jack Fork Road); go two miles to Aaron Road (gravel) to left; Lin's house is at the top of the hill on the right, about ½ mile or so from KY 1945. KY DeLorme Gazetteer p. 41; block 10-B.
Rare gull observations in the tri-dam area of western Kentucky in the past three weeks have included first- year Great Black-backed's (1-2) at Smithland Dam, Lesser Black-backed Gulls of various ages at all three dams, Barkley, Kentucky and Smithland, and Thayer's Gulls (first-year and adult) at Barkley Dam. These birds seem to be moving about just about daily, so checks of all three dams are essential in making an attempt to see them. Large numbers of diving ducks continue on northern Lake Barkley viewable with a scope from the dam, Boyd's Landing Recreation Area, and the end of Green Road. American White Pelicans have been fairly reliable on the lake from the dam to Eddyville. The Western/Clark's Grebe that was observed on northern Kentucky Lake in early February has not been seen in over a week. Large numbers of Bonaparte's Gulls have been present on the bays of Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley.
Up to 660 Greater White-fronted Geese, 10 Lapland Longspurs, and 2 Western Meadowlarks were observed near Open Pond in western Fulton County on February 17th.
Northbound flocks of Sandhill Cranes arrived in the past several days with up to 3,700 reported from Hart County in south-central Kentucky.
There have been several reports of Eastern Phoebes over the past several days. Also observed over the weekend was a Pine Warbler at Bernheim Forest & Tree Swallows at Peabody Wildlife Management Area.
Monday, February 21, 2000
Highlights of this update are Thayer's Gulls and White Pelicans on Lake Barkley, impressive numbers of gulls & waterfowl in the Tri-Dam area, Greater White-fronted Geese at Open Pond in Fulton County, and Sandhill Cranes heading north.
Hap Chambers reports that there are still thousands of gulls on Kentucky Lake, with an impressive number of Bonaparte's Gulls in the bays. On 19 February, Mark Bennett reported a Thayer's Gull plus 22 American White Pelicans on Lake Barkley. Also reported were Common Loons and numerous waterfowl, including Hooded Mergansers, Red-breasted Mergansers, Canvasbacks, Ring-necked Ducks, Bufflehead, Common Goldeneyes, Northern Pintails, Redheads, Ruddy Ducks, American Black Ducks, and Wood Ducks.
On 17 February, Brainard Palmer-Ball, Jr., reported at least 660 Greater White-fronted Geese using the corn stubble and winter wheat fields NW, N, and NE of Midway Baptist Church southeast of Open Pond in Fulton County. At least two Western Meadowlarks were also observed in the vicinity of Open Pond.
On the afternoon of 21 February, Sandhill Cranes were reported on their way north at three locations: Green County (about 500), Hart County (about 200), and Jefferson County (about 50).
Monday, February 7, 2000
Highlights of this update are Western Grebe on Kentucky Lake, Black-capped Chickadees in Boyd County, a Greater White-fronted Goose at Campbellsville Lake in Taylor County, and impressive numbers of gulls in the Tri-Dam area.
Dave Roemer reported a Western Grebe on Kentucky Lake (approximately a mile above the dam) on February 2nd (and it was still present on February 6th). The bird has been viewed from the boat yard (Lighthouse Landing) in Grand Rivers off Highway 453.
At least two Black-capped Chickadees continue to visit the feeders of Lin Towler in extreme southwestern Boyd County. Lin's birds have been present since about November 9th. If you want to try for Lin's chickadees, contact her at 606/928-5533. Weekends are preferable. Lin lives off Exit 185 of I-64; take KY 3 south from the Interstate for several miles to KY 854; take a right (west) and go a couple of miles to KY 1945 (Jack Fork Road); go two miles to Aaron Road (gravel) to left; Lin's house is at the top of the hill on the right, about ½ mile or so from KY 1945. KY DeLorme Gazetteer p. 41; block 10-B.
On Saturday, February 5th, a good number of common waterfowl and a Greater White-fronted Goose were present among 600+ Canada Geese at Campbellsville Lake in Taylor County.
Gull numbers have been impressive on Lake Barkley & Kentucky Lake. Gulls observed over the weekend (February 5 & 6) included Bonaparte's Gull, Great Black-backed Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Thayer's Gull, Herring Gull, and Ring-billed Gull.
An adult male White-winged Crossbill was observed at Thomas Sherwood's (E-mail: waxwing@apex.net) hanging seed feeder on Saturday, Jan. 22 near New Concord in Calloway County.
Thursday, February 3, 2000
Highlights of this update are Western or Clark's Grebe on Kentucky Lake, Black-capped Chickadees in Boyd County, a Great Black-backed Gull on Lake Barkley, and a White-winged Crossbill in Calloway County.
Dave Roemer reported a Western or Clark's Grebe on Kentucky Lake (approximately a mile above the dam) on February 2nd. The bird was viewed from the boat yard, "Lighthouse Landing," in Grand Rivers off Highway 453.
Although a confirmed observation of Black-capped Chickadees has not been made at the yard of Steve Sweeney in rural Boyd County in several weeks, at least two birds continue to visit the feeders of Lin Towler in extreme southwestern Boyd County. Lin's birds have been present since about November 9th, and are apparently still quite reliable. If you want to try for Lin's chickadees, contact her at 606/928-5533. Weekends are preferable. Lin lives off Exit 185 of I-64; take KY 3 south from the Interstate for several miles to KY 854; take a right (west) and go a couple of miles to KY 1945 (Jack Fork Road); go two miles to Aaron Road (gravel) to left; Lin's house is at the top of the hill on the right, about ½ mile or so from KY 1945. KY DeLorme Gazetteer p. 41; block 10-B.
A 1st or 2nd year Great Black-backed Gull was observed by David Roemer on bars of Lake Barkley between the Kuttawa Recreation Area and Eddyville on January 21-24. A first-year Thayer's Gull was reported at Barkley Dam on January 24th. Lesser Black-backed Gulls were observed as follows on January 26-27th: adult above Barkley Dam on 26th; 1st- and 3rd-year birds below Kentucky Dam on 26th; 1st-, 2nd-, and 3rd-year birds at Smithland Dam on 27th; and 1st-year, 3rd-year, and adult below Kentucky Dam on 27th. A female Oldsquaw was observed below Smithland Dam on January 27th.
Five adult Ross' Geese were found at the E.W. Brown Power Plant ash basin at Dix Dam, Mercer County on January 23rd and remained through at least mid-week. The power plant also has a large number of common puddle and diving ducks.
An adult male White-winged Crossbill was observed at Thomas Sherwood's (E-mail: waxwing@apex.net) hanging seed feeder on Saturday, Jan. 22 near New Concord in Calloway County.
Highlights of the Land Between the Lakes/dams field trip on January 15th included 13 WHITE PELICANS on Barkley at Boyd's Landing and 1 on Lake Barkley at Canton, 34 LEAST SANDPIPERS at Jonathan Creek on Kentucky Lake, 500-600 Bonaparte's Gulls, mostly at 68/80 bridges on Kentucky and Barkley Lakes with an adult in FULL ALTERNATE (breeding) plumage at Canton on Barkley. Waterfowl observed included Mallard, Black, Gadwall, Green-winged Teal, Canvasback, Redhead, Lesser Scaup, Greater Scaup, Ring-necked Duck, Bufflehead, Common Goldeneye, Ruddy Duck, Hooded Merganser, Red-breasted Merganser, & Canada Goose; Horned Grebes and Common Loons were present in several locations.
Friday, January 28, 2000
Highlights of this update are Say's Phoebe in Logan County, Black-capped Chickadees in Boyd County, a Great Black-backed Gull on Lake Barkley, and a White-winged Crossbill in Calloway County.
The Say's Phoebe was last reported during the weekend of January 15-16 near the farm pond where it was first observed on December 28th. The bird was last observed along the west side of Virgil Whiter Road in southwestern Logan Co. To reach the site from Russellville, KY; take US 79 southwest out of Russellville to the Todd County line; go south on KY 102 through Allensville, KY and back into Logan Co. Turn off to the left (east) onto KY 2375, then in a mile or so, turn left (north) onto Virgil Whiter Road. This is KY DeLorme Gazetteer p. 80, block 1-E. About 1/4 mile north of KY 2375, you will see a double green gate into a cattle pasture; beyond to the NW will be a large farm pond. The bird has been frequenting this pond, including the tree that has fallen into the north side, and the scattered fence posts, where it hawks insects off the water. If it cannot be located around the pond, it may have moved to forage elsewhere around the margin of the pasture. Entry into the pasture via the double green gate is allowable, but make sure the gate is secured at all times, and stay within sight of the road if you move to get a closer look.
Although a confirmed observation of Black-capped Chickadees has not been made at the yard of Steve Sweeney in rural Boyd County in several weeks, at least two birds continue to visit the feeders of Lin Towler in extreme southwestern Boyd County. Lin's birds have been present since about November 9th, and are apparently still quite reliable. If you want to try for Lin's chickadees, contact her at 606/928-5533. Weekends are preferable. Lin lives off Exit 185 of I-64; take KY 3 south from the Interstate for several miles to KY 854; take a right (west) and go a couple of miles to KY 1945 (Jack Fork Road); go two miles to Aaron Road (gravel) to left; Lin's house is at the top of the hill on the right, about ½ mile or so from KY 1945. KY DeLorme Gazetteer p. 41; block 10-B.
A 1st or 2nd year Great Black-backed Gull was observed by David Roemer on bars of Lake Barkley between the Kuttawa Recreation Area and Eddyville on January 21-24. A first-year Thayer's Gull was reported at Barkley Dam on January 24th. Lesser Black-backed Gulls were observed as follows on January 26-27th: adult above Barkley Dam on 26th; 1st- and 3rd-year birds below Kentucky Dam on 26th; 1st-, 2nd-, and 3rd-year birds at Smithland Dam on 27th; and 1st-year, 3rd-year, and adult below Kentucky Dam on 27th. A female Oldsquaw was observed below Smithland Dam on January 27th.
Five adult Ross' Geese were found at the E.W. Brown Power Plant ash basin at Dix Dam, Mercer County on January 23rd and remained through at least mid-week. The power plant also has a large number of common puddle and diving ducks.
An adult male White-winged Crossbill was observed at Thomas Sherwood's (E-mail: waxwing@apex.net) hanging seed feeder on Saturday, Jan. 22 near New Concord in Calloway County.
Highlights of the Land Between the Lakes/dams field trip on January 15th included 13 WHITE PELICANS on Barkley at Boyd's Landing and 1 on Lake Barkley at Canton, 34 LEAST SANDPIPERS at Jonathan Creek on Kentucky Lake, 500-600 Bonaparte's Gulls, mostly at 68/80 bridges on Kentucky and Barkley Lakes with an adult in FULL ALTERNATE (breeding) plumage at Canton on Barkley. Waterfowl observed included Mallard, Black, Gadwall, Green-winged Teal, Canvasback, Redhead, Lesser Scaup, Greater Scaup, Ring-necked Duck, Bufflehead, Common Goldeneye, Ruddy Duck, Hooded Merganser, Red-breasted Merganser, & Canada Goose; Horned Grebes and Common Loons were present in several locations.
Wednesday, January 12, 2000
The Say's Phoebe first reported by Dave Roemer and Mark Bennett in southwest Logan County on December 28th was still present on Wednesday, January 12th (click on the photo for some information about Say's Phoebes & click here to see additional photos). To get to the location of the sighting: From Russellville, take US 79 southwest (towards Clarksville, TN) about 15 miles into the eastern edge of Todd County. Turn left on KY 102 (caution light) and follow 102 through the small town of Allensville, back across the Logan County Line to the 3rd left in Logan County. This is the James Rose Road, KY 2375. Follow this road about 3/4 a mile to the first left. This road is labeled Virgil Whiter Road on the Kentucky County Road Maps, but the sign says C. Lawrence Rd. Follow this road about 1/4 mile looking for a large pond in the middle of a fenced pasture with dairy cattle.
The property is owned by Dana Baker. She has been very gracious in allowing birders access to her property. She said that it is not necessary to stop and ask permission if you do not go beyond the pond. There is a gate to the field that you can go through to walk to the pond (you will see it on the left as you approach the pond). There is a grassy area on the opposite side of the road where you may pull off. Be sure to latch the gate behind you on your way in and out. Good views may also be obtained from the road with a scope.
Friday, December 31, 1999
Highlights of this update are a Say's Phoebe in Logan County plus results of recent Christmas Bird Counts.
Dave Roemer and Mark Bennett reported a Say's Phoebe in southwest Logan County on December 28th & it was still present in the area on the afternoon of December 30th. To get to the location of the sighting: From Russellville, take US 79 southwest (towards Clarksville, TN) about 15 miles into the eastern edge of Todd County. Turn left on KY 102 (caution light) and follow 102 through the small town of Allensville, back across the Logan County Line to the 3rd left in Logan County. This is the James Rose Road, KY 2375. Follow this road about 3/4 a mile to the first left. This road is labeled Virgil Whiter Road on the Kentucky County Road Maps, but the sign says C. Lawrence Rd. Follow this road about 1/4 mile looking for a large pond in the middle of a fenced pasture with dairy cattle. This is private property and the owners are a little skittish. DO NOT TRESPASS WITHOUT SPECIFIC PERMISSION FROM THE OWNER. We did talk to them and they realize that others may come and look for the bird. You must park on the edge of the narrow blacktop road and look for the bird. At the time of our observation, the bird flew from post to post in the pond, apparently feeding of insects at the top of the water. It was very active and pumped its tail vigorously.
We have had no recent update on Kentucky's first confirmed record for Black-capped Chickadee, which was established in November, with at least two birds frequenting feeders in a Boyd County yard. The birds were first noticed on November 5th and continued as of Saturday, November 13th. The birds were coming to the feeders of Steve Sweeney, who lives on Daniel's Fork Road, west off KY 5 on the outer limits of Ashland, Ky. If you are interested in looking for the chickadees, you can call Steve at 606/928-8781 for the current status of the birds. Daniel's Fork Road is a west or left turn as you head northish on KY 5, which turns west off US 60 about 2 miles north of I 64 at exit 181. From the jct of US 60 and KY 5 to the Daniel's Fork turnoff is about 7.5 miles; the Sweeneys currently live in a trailer home on the south side of Daniel's Fork Road at 6346, which is about 1.5 miles from KY 5.
Highlights of the Land Between the Lakes CBC on December 18th included a Franklin's Gull.
Highlights of the Warsaw, Gallatin Co. CBC on December 18th included 4 Short-eared Owls, 192 Black Vultures, 2 Peregrine Falcons, a Prairie Warbler, and the call of a Northern Saw-whet Owl.
Highlights of the Louisville CBC on December 19th included a Greater Yellowlegs, a Peregrine Falcon, a Merlin, an Orange-crowned Warbler, and the call of a Northern Saw-whet Owl. The Merlin has been frequenting the Germantown Ball Park, on the east side of Poplar Level Road north of the Humana Audubon hospital north of the Watterson X-way. There is a sign for the park along Poplar Level Road.
Flights of southbound Sandhill Cranes continue over central Kentucky, with more than 2,000 observed on the afternoon of December 26th on the Bernheim Forest CBC. Also present along the traditional Wilson Creek Road area of Bernheim Forest were at least two Golden Eagles and a mature Bald Eagle on the 26th.
Highlights of the Olmstead County CBC on December 28th included the SAY'S PHOEBE mentioned above, plus 5 Sandhill Cranes, 29 Lapland Longspurs, 1 Chipping Sparrow, 570 Horned Larks, & 4 Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers.
Highlights of the Hart County count on Wednesday, December 29th included 27 Red-tailed Hawks, 30 American Kestrels, and 90 Eastern Bluebirds.
Wednesday, October 27, 1999
Highlights of this update are fall migrant waterbirds and songbirds.
We have had no reports of the Brown-headed Nuthatch below Wolf Creek Dam along US 127, Russell County, since October 12th. At last report the bird was seen coming to the feeder behind the campground attendant's camper just to the right of the entrance to the Kendall Campground. When not at the feeder, the bird was usually been findable in the open pines towards the river from the feeder and campground. Please report any sightings of the nuthatch to the bird line or BIRDKY.
Migrant waterfowl have begun to show up in increasing numbers in the last two weeks. Diving ducks are yet to come, but many dabblers have arrived on recent cool weather fronts, as well as some loons, grebes, coots, and at least one group of Sandhill Cranes.
An excellent KOS/Beckham Bird Club field trip to the Sauerheber Unit of Sloughs Wildlife Management Area was held on October 17th, with 3-4 American Bitterns, 2 King Rails, 2 Virginia Rails, a number of Soras, several Marsh and Sedge Wrens, and at least 2 Nelson's Sharp-tailed Sparrows observed. The Sloughs WMA area is now closed for the season. Birding reports from the Peabody Wildlife Management Area in Ohio and Muhlenberg counties on October 22nd included an immature Golden Eagle, a Yellow Rail, and a LeConte's Sparrow.
Red-breasted Nuthatches have staged a modest movement into the state with birds reported from a variety of locations. Pine Siskins also have arrived in small numbers since mid-October.
Friday, October 8, 1999
Highlights of this update are Sabine's Gull in McCracken County, Brown-headed Nuthatch in Russell County and scattered fall migrant waterbirds and songbirds.
A juvenile Sabine's Gull was observed yesterday, October 7th, on the Ohio River at Fort Massac St Pk, near Metropolis, Illinois. This is across the river and downstream slightly from Paducah. To reach the spot where the bird was seen, take I-24 across the Ohio River into Illinois, take the US 45 exit, and follow the signs to Metropolis and Fort Massac St Pk. Take the second entrance to Fort Massac State Park on the left. Follow this entrance to a parking area for the reconstructed Fort. You could park here an walk a short distance to the river just beyond the fort or you could continue through the parking lot and turn right as you reach the end. This road will curve left and go down to the river. Once to the river, there is a gravel boat ramp area where unobstructed observation could take place or you could follow the road to a shaded picnic area that overlooks the river. Any of these sites will give a view of the sandbar and dredge barge where the bird was seen.
A Brown-headed Nuthatch, a first Kentucky record, was found below Wolf Creek Dam along US 127, Russell County, on September 26th, and at last report was still present, coming to a feeder behind the campground attendant's camper just to the right of the entrance to the Kendall Campground. When not at the feeder, the bird has usually been findable in the open pines towards the river from the feeder and campground.
Fall migrant passerines are now declining, although winter residents are on the increase. Red-breasted Nuthatches are making an early movement into the state with small numbers of birds reported from a variety of locations.
Monday, September 27, 1999
Highlights of this update are Brown-headed Nuthatch in Russell County and scattered fall migrant waterbirds and songbirds.
A Brown-headed Nuthatch, a first Kentucky record, was found below Wolf Creek Dam, Russell County, yesterday, September 26th. The bird was seen in the open woodland (mostly pines) between the fish hatchery and the Cumberland River. It was calling frequently, making for easier location.The nuthatch was still present this afternoon, September 27th. The bird is visiting the feeder behind the Wolf Creek Dam campground attendant's RV trailer, which is just to the right of the entrance to the Kendall Campground next to the fish hatchery. The bird was seen off and on within a hundred yards of this feeder most of the afternoon, although it actually was seen on the feeder only once. The feeder was stocked with a fresh supply of sunflower seeds in hopes of attracting the bird more regularly. It seems to be loosely associating with a mixed passerine flock composed mostly of chickadees, titmice, red-breasted nuthatches, and pine warblers. Hopefully the bird will continue to use this very accessible area. Please report updates to the status of the Brown-headed Nuthatch to either the Kentucky Bird Line or BIRDKY (birdky@acs.eku.edu).
The Plegadis ibis reported from Drakes Creek in Simpson Co. September 17-21st has been tentatively identified as a Glossy, but it has not been reported in nearly a week (it is unknown if it remains). The bird was near the bridge where 100 crosses the small impoundment between Franklin and I-65.
An American Avocet was reported last week from the Kimberly Clark wetland off US 60 in Daviess County. The Red-necked Phalarope that was on the Blood River embayment of Kentucky Lake, Calloway County, last weekend has not been reported since September 18th.
Fall migrant passerines have been much in evidence the past two weeks, with many reports of common species. Red-breasted Nuthatches are making an early movement into the state with small numbers of birds reported from a variety of locations.
Saturday, September 18, 1999
Highlights of this update are Red-necked Phalarope in Calloway County and Plegadis ibis (either a Glossy or White-faced Ibis) in Simpson County.
A Red-necked Phalarope was present on the Blood River embayment of Kentucky Lake on Friday evening, September 17th, along with other commoner species. Seventeen species of shorebirds were reported last weekend in western Kentucky including most all of the common species. The best shorebird habitat has been on the Blood River and Jonathan Creek embayments on the west side of Kentucky Lake, on the Mississippi River at and upstream from the Laketon Boat Ramp, Carlisle County, on the Mississippi River near the north end of Westvaco WMA, Carlisle County, at Lake No. 9 in Fulton County, on the ash basin of the Paradise Steam Plant east of Drakesboro, Muhlenberg Co., on bars below Smithland Dam on the Ohio River, Livingston Co., and at Mitchell Lake, Ballard WMA, Ballard Co. The Falls of the Ohio has had some birds, but nothing unusual. Best recent sightings have included an American Avocet at Blood River, several White-rumped Sandpipers at Jonathan Creek, seven American Avocets at the Green River Lake State Park beach, and greater than average numbers of Stilt Sandpipers. Single Merlins have been reported at Paradise and Ballard WMA, Mitchell Lake in the past week and a half.
A juvenile or first basic plumaged Plegadis ibis was present on Drakes Creek in Simpson Co. on September 17th. The bird was near the bridge where 100 crosses the small impoundment between Franklin and I-65. We have had no further details of this sighting.
Fall migrant passerines have been much in evidence the past two weeks, with many reports of common species. There seem to have been a few more fall migrant Black-throated Blue Warblers in Kentucky this fall than normal.
Eurasian Collared-Doves are still being reported in Hickman, KY, mostly in the lowland portion of downtown along KY 94, between the large grain bins and the river bluff. Other sightings of Eurasian Collared-Doves have been made consistently in La Center, in Ballard County. These doves could appear just about anywhere.
Tuesday, September 14, 1999
Highlights of this update are fall migrant waterbirds and songbirds.
Seventeen species of shorebirds were reported this past weekend in western Kentucky including most all of the common species. The best shorebird habitat has been on the Blood River and Jonathan Creek embayments on the west side of Kentucky Lake, on the Mississippi River at and upstream from the Laketon Boat Ramp, Carlisle County, on the Mississippi River near the north end of Westvaco WMA, Carlisle County, at Lake No. 9 in Fulton County, on the ash basin of the Paradise Steam Plant east of Drakesboro, Muhlenberg Co., on bars below Smithland Dam on the Ohio River, Livingston Co., and at Mitchell Lake, Ballard WMA, Ballard Co. The Falls of the Ohio has had some birds, but nothing unusual. Best recent sightings have included an American Avocet at Blood River, several White-rumped Sandpipers at Jonathan Creek, seven American Avocets at the Green River Lake State Park beach, and greater than average numbers of Stilt Sandpipers. Single Merlins have been reported at Paradise and Ballard WMA, Mitchell Lake in the past week and a half.
Fall migrant passerines have been much in evidence the past two weeks, with many reports of common species. There seem to have been a few more fall migrant Black-throated Blue Warblers in Kentucky this fall than normal.
Eurasian Collared-Doves are still being reported in Hickman, KY, mostly in the lowland portion of downtown along KY 94, between the large grain bins and the river bluff. Other sightings of Eurasian Collared-Doves have been made consistently in La Center, in Ballard County. These doves could appear just about anywhere.
Tuesday, August 31, 1999
Highlights of this update are fall migrant waterbirds and songbirds.
Kentucky's first Green Violet-ear, a tropical hummingbird that has a penchant for wandering, was observed in the northern Kentucky town of Taylor Mill from August 25th to August 27th, but has not been reported since early on the 27th.
Sixteen species of shorebirds were reported this past weekend in western Kentucky including most all of the common species. The best shorebird habitat has been on the Mississippi River at and upstream from the Laketon Boat Ramp, Carlisle County, near the north end of Westvaco WMA, Carlisle County, at Lake No. 9 in Fulton County, on the ash basin of the Paradise Steam Plant east of Drakesboro, Muhlenberg Co., on bars below Smithland Dam on the Ohio River, Livingston Co., and at Mitchell Lake, Ballard WMA, Ballard Co. The Falls of the Ohio has had some birds, but nothing unusual. Best recent sightings have included a Wilson's Phalarope at Paradise and a Black-bellied Plover on a sandbar on the Ohio River in Livingston County on August 27th, Stilt and Western Sandpipers at Mitchell Lake, Ballard WMA on August 28th, and a Sanderling at the Laketon Ramp and a Buff-breasted Sandpiper at Lake No. 9 on August 29th. Also observed in western Kentucky this weekend were up to two juvenile Laughing Gulls on Kentucky Lake at the upstream end of the locks, Caspian, Least and Black Terns, and a number of Mississippi Kites and Fish Crows still in breeding areas.
The season's first fall migrant warblers were reported from the Louisville area on August 22nd. Eleven species were seen in all including Nashville, Bay-breasted, Black-and-White, Magnolia, Hooded, Parula, Yellow, Chestnut-sided, Wilson's, Blackburnian, Blue-winged.
Eurasian Collared-Doves are still being reported in Hickman, KY, mostly in the lowland portion of downtown along KY 94, between the large grain bins and the river bluff. Other sightings of Eurasian Collared-Doves have been made at Bowling Green, in Warren County, and at La Center, in Ballard County. These doves could appear just about anywhere.
Friday, August 27, 1999
Highlight of this update is a Green Violet-ear (Colibri thalassinus) in Kenton Co. This hummingbird was first observed on Wednesday, August 25 and was observed throughout the day on August 26. However, the bird has not been observed since about 8:00 a.m. on August 27. KOS members still hoping to see the bird are welcome at the home of Bill Angel. It is not necessary to call ahead to let him know you're coming (but if you'd like to call ahead to determine the bird's status, his phone number is 606-356-7487). To get to Bill's home: From Jct I-75 and I-275 in northern Kentucky, take I-275 east for about 5 miles to Exit 79. This is KY 16 (Taylor Mill Road); go right and 4.0 miles towards Taylor Mill to 'Jct KY 1501' sign; right before 1501 goes to the right, take Left onto Lipscomb Road; go about 0.9 mi to Lieberman Rd on left; turn up hill; 5954 Lieberman Rd., home of Bill Angel, is the second drive (gravel) on the right.
Green violet-ears are common to abundant residents in open, brushy highland areas with scattered trees from central Mexico south to Panama & in the Andes from northern Venezuela to Bolivia. They feed on the flowers of many herbs, shrubs, epiphytes, and trees. This species occurs irregularly in the U.S. and, in previous years, has been spotted in Wisconsin, Michigan, Texas, and several other states.