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ARIZONA SEASONAL REPORTS

Winter 2013-2014

Mohave|Coconino|Navajo and Hopi Nations|Yavapai|White Mountains
Southwest|South-Central|Gila|Southeast

(Click on the name of a given reporting region above to jump to its Seasonal Report)

Introduction

 

Reports from all the regions show that this winter was unusually warm and dry throughout the state. This may have been responsible for the number of fall migrants lingering into the winter season and for CBC high counts of many species in some regions. Hundreds of volunteers participated in 36 CBCs between 14 Dec and 5 Jan, gathering much useful data that we might not get otherwise. The annual one-day Greater Phoenix Area Waterbird Census 18 Jan reported record highs for several species, including Canada Goose (4600), American Wigeon (19,700), Northern Shoveler (4100), Ruddy Duck (2350), and Eurasian Wigeon drakes (4).

Since the 2010 split of Winter Wren (Troglodytes troglodytes) in the United States into two species – Pacific Wren (T. pacificus) and Winter Wren (T. hiemalis) – the reported numbers of each have significantly varied from year to year. Winter Wren ("eastern") remains a review species. This season's combined total of 13 (three Winter and 10 Pacific) from three regions was lower than last year's unusually high total of 42. The figures for the past three years are: six regions reporting 12 Winter and 30 Pacific in 2012-13, four regions reporting one Winter and eight Pacific in 2011-12, and four regions reporting 14 Winter and nine Pacific in 2010-11. The number of Varied Thrushes (3) and Rufous-backed Robins (4) was lower than usual. Bluebird and American Robin numbers varied considerably from region to region. Even within some regions (e.g., Yavapai) the figures were wide-ranging, with few in some locations and exceptional numbers in others. This pattern was also observed for some other irruptive species such as Mountain Chickadees (found in higher than usual numbers at low elevations in the central part of the state but not in the south). In general, wintering Rough-legged Hawks seem to be increasing, although this year's 18 was a lower number than last year's unusually high count of 25. White-throated Sparrow, which has been considered "rare" in the state, is now being reported so frequently in some regions that its status is shifting to "uncommon" and is no longer being included in the seasonal reports. In regions where five or fewer are reported in a season they will continue to be included.

In 2013, Sage Sparrow was split into Sagebrush Sparrow (Artemisiospiza nevadensis) and Bell’s Sparrow (A. belli). The subtleties of identification are not well understood, but it appears to be difficult to reliably identify these similar species in the field even with scope views and photographs. This presents a challenge to understanding the distribution of Bell’s and Sagebrush sparrows in the state. In most of the state the expected species has been what is now known as Sagebrush Sparrow, with specimen evidence of the Bell's Sparrow also wintering in the far western part of the state along the lower Colorado R. valley and rarely east to the Gila River Indian Reservation. However, the current status and full extent of distribution remain uncertain and provide an opportunity for exploration and discovery. Research is currently being conducted, including mist netting and obtaining blood samples, to learn more about the distribution of the two species. Because of this uncertainty, reports of Bell's Sparrows were included tentatively from outside the lower Colorado R. valley in two regions.

Our regional coordinators have assembled their reports for the winter season from the AZFO seasonal reports database, the Arizona-New Mexico Listserv, Northern Arizona Birding Forum, records submitted to the Arizona Bird Committee, eBird, Christmas Bird Counts, and local sources. We encourage those who want to contribute to these reports to also submit their noteworthy sightings directly to the AZFO database. Sightings that appear only on the listserv or other sites and are not on the AZFO site may be missed or otherwise not included in the seasonal reports. Moreover, the database offers a cumulative and searchable repository of unusual sightings in the state. There are nine reporting regions, primarily defined by biological and geographical criteria, which can be viewed on an interactive map. In this report, documented sightings of species on the ABC Review List and observations of exceptionally large numbers of a species are in boldface. All reports of review species have had documentation submitted to the ABC and are “pending acceptance” by the ABC. Many of these sightings are hyperlinked to photos on the AZFO web site. Species and numbers underlined are “sketch details” species or exceptional reports (accidental or casual) for the specific region or season, and some are documented with photos at AZFO’s online Photo Documentation gallery. The list of cited observers and initials is at the end of the report. Infrequently cited observers are cited in the text by the first initial and last name.

 

Abbreviations used throughout the reports include: American Ornithologists' Union (AOU), Arizona Bird Committee (ABC), Arizona Breeding Bird Atlas (Atlas), Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZG&F), Bed and Breakfast (B&B), Christmas Bird Count (CBC), Campground (CG), Important Bird Area (IBA), National Wildlife Refuge (NWR), Sewage Treatment Plant (STP), State Park (SP), Wastewater Treatment Plant (WTP), Wildlife Area (WA), photographed (ph.), sound recording (s. r.), video recording (v. r.), many observers (m. ob.), on the authority of (fide), and date + (birds seen through end of season).

—Doug Jenness, Statewide Coordinator, AZFO Seasonal Reports

 

 

Mohave

Compiled by David Vander Pluym

 

Abbreviations: Bill Williams Delta (BWD), Bill Williams R. National Wildlife Refuge (BWR NWR), BHC (BHC), Havasu National Wildlife Refuge (HNWR), Katherine Landing on L. Mohave in L. Mead NRA, L. Havasu City (LHC), Rotary Park in L. Havasu City (Rotary Park), Windsor Beach, L. Havasu SP (Windsor Beach).

The region received below-average rain and experienced above-average temperatures. The newly published third edition of Birds of the Grand Canyon Region, an Annotated Checklist (Gatlin 2013) is an excellent source for the status of birds over most of the Arizona Strip. The LCRV received adequate coverage, and Shawn Langston once again provided coverage from the Arizona Strip, expanding our knowledge of this lightly visited part of the state. Elsewhere, coverage was sparse at best. Rarities included three species of scoters, three species of loons, continuing Red-necked Grebes, continuing Blue-footed and Brown boobies, Lesser Black-backed and Glaucous gulls, and two species of longspurs. The BWD is divided by the Mohave-La Paz county line and several species reported from there are covered more thoroughly in the Southwest report.

Snow Geese are rarely reported from L. Havasu so a flock of 30 there 8 Feb (DVP) and one at the Refuge Golf Course, Desert Hills 16 Feb (C. Saum) were of interest as likely early migrants. Suggesting a possible route for wintering Snow Geese to leave the LCRV, six groups of 300-600 and one group of 700 Snow Geese were seen flying over Dolan Springs 12 Feb (R. Jones). Below-average numbers of Snow and Ross’s geese were reported from the HNWR, with the high count of Snow Geese being 1129 on the Havasu CBC 30 Dec (fide DDe). In contrast to recent years, only a few Ross’s Geese were seen there this winter so a flock of 126 off Vanderslice Rd. in the s. Mohave Valley 16 Feb (ph. MLe, CMc) was especially notable. Away from the HNWR/Mohave Valley, a single Ross’s Goose was at the north end of L. Havasu 22 Dec (LHar, DVP). Two Cackling Geese at the Island Golf Course, LHC 4 Dec (DVP) showed characteristics of B. h. leucopareia, a taxon not yet on the state list. Tending to winter farther south in the LCRV, Canada Geese are typically only reported in small numbers in the region, so 141 on the HNWR CBC 30 Dec (fide DDe) and up to 48 by the El Rio Golf Course in the Mohave Valley 17-27 Dec (DDe) were good counts. The only swans reported in the region were two imm. Tundra Swans illegally shot by a hunter at Pintail Slough HNWR 7 Dec (fide DDe).

A male Wood Duck was back (or never left) at Katherine Landing 9 Dec – 15 Feb (m. ob.) and five were on ponds at Fox Wash, BWR NWR 29 Dec (DVP). Mexican Duck x Mallards have become regular in small numbers in the L. Havasu area and this season was no exception with at least six present throughout the season (m. ob.), and elsewhere one was at Katherine Landing 15 Feb (DVP, et al.). Blue-winged Teal are rare in the region in winter and only one was reported this season from the Castle Rock area of Topock Gorge 13 Jan (JRi). Cinnamon Teal are rare before mid-January when they start trickling in, with one reported this season from the BWD 16 Dec (G. Sheridan). Redheads typically winter in small numbers with up to 220 at the BHC/Laughlin Bridge on the Colorado R. 28-29 Jan (TC) being a good count for a wintering flock. With no prior winter reports for the Arizona Strip, three Ring-necked Ducks at Toquer Tank 10 Jan and three at Harold’s Res. 17 Jan (both SLa) were notable. As Greater Scaup continue to increase in the region new record-high counts continue to be set. This season, a record-breaking 503 in both counties of the BWD 5 Dec was soon broken by 518 there 22 Jan (both LHar). Four Surf Scoters continuing from the fall in the BWD through 5 Dec (m. ob.) were joined by two more there on the later date (LHar). Possibly continuing from the fall were two White-winged Scoters in both counties of the BWD 1 Dec – 13 Feb (TDeB, GKa, m. ob.), joined there by three more that had previously been on the California side of L. Havasu 31 Jan (LHar, DVP) with one continuing through 9 Feb. Two female-type Black Scoters were off Pittsburgh Pt., L. Havasu, with one possibly being a continuing bird from the fall 1-12 Dec (ph. TDeB, GKa). A Long-tailed Duck made a brief appearance on Thompson Bay, L. Havasu 1 Feb (NWi). The high count this season for Barrow’s Goldeneye was slightly down with 17 from the BWD in both counties 31 Jan. Rare away from there in recent years, one was shot at Pintail Slough HNWR in mid-December (fide DDe). Likely wintering Red-breasted Mergansers included up to four through the season in both counties of the BWD (m. ob.), one on L. Havasu 9-30 Jan (LHar, DVP), and three at Davis Dam 29 Jan (TC). One at Princess Cove, L. Mohave 6 Feb (RSl) may have been an early spring migrant.

Up to two Pacific Loons were on L. Havasu 9-15 Jan (LHar, DVP) and one was refound on the southern part of the lake 8 Feb (ph. DVP, et al.). A Red-throated Loon seen off Windsor Beach (also seen on the California side of the lake) 27 Dec (DVP) was likely one of three seen off Mesquite Bay 11 Jan+; only one was seen after 16 Jan (DVP, LHar). The high count of Common Loons on L. Havasu this season was 28 on 9 Jan (LHar, DVP), a good count for winter. Average high counts of Horned Grebe were reported this season on L. Havasu with up to four on the BWD (both counties) throughout the season (m. ob.) and 14 on the main body of the lake 9 Jan (DVP, LHar). Continuing from the fall was a Red-necked Grebe at Site Six, L. Havasu through 10 Dec (m. ob.). The Blue-footed Booby continuing in the BWD (see the Southwest report for more details) was briefly seen again on the main body of L. Havasu 4 Feb (JLD) and the continuing Brown Booby was most frequently seen on the main body of L. Havasu (m. ob.). However, it also made it down to the BWD on occasion (see SW report for more details). It was last reported there 15 Feb, before being refound at Cottonwood Cove on the Nevada side of L. Mohave 16 Feb (J. Tinsman and K. DesRoberts). Good numbers of American White Pelicans were found this season in the region with 39 at Beal L., HNWR 4 Dec (LHar), eight continuing there to 30 Dec (LHar, DDe), and elsewhere on the HNWR up to 11 were seen 15 Dec – 1 Jan (m. ob.). Other reports included up to four at the BWD 16-17 Dec (G. Sheridan), which were likely late fall migrants; two there 9 Feb (LHar, JWe) were likely early spring migrants; one at the north end of L. Havasu 3-9 Jan (JRi); and 13 likely early spring migrants at South Dike, HNWR 20 Feb (LHar). Casual in the region, an adult Brown Pelican made an unexpected appearance on L. Havasu 23 Jan (ph. DVP, et al.). Rare in the region, a Cattle Egret was reported from Vanderslice Rd., Mohave Valley 3 Feb (ph. DoS).

Rare but regular Bald Eagle reports included up to two in the BWD 1 Dec – 23 Jan (m. ob.), one at L. Havasu 6-15 Jan (BWal), four at Alamo L. (also in La Paz Co.) 26 Jan (LHar, DVP), and two at HNWR 29 Jan (K. Morales). Three Harris’s Hawks were at Chicken Springs Rd. in the Dutchman Flat area 29 Jan (ph. DoS), an area that has had scattered reports in recent years. A Red-shouldered Hawk was reported from Pintail Slough, HNWR 30 Dec+ (ph. KC, m. ob.), a location that has hosted the species in previous winters. A Zone-tailed Hawk reported from Pierce Ferry 28 Feb (JPz) was early and rare. A Rough-legged Hawk near Flat Top Draw on the Arizona Strip 23 Dec (ph. SLa) was the only report for the region this season. Rarely reported in winter was a Black Rail from the BWD 29 Dec (JWe). Three American Avocets at Rotary Park 4 Dec (DVP) were likely late fall migrants, as were up to four at Beal L., HNWR 4-30 Dec (LHar, m. ob.). However, one continued through the rest of the season providing a casual report of a wintering individual. Also casual in winter was a Snowy Plover at Beal L., HNWR 19 Feb (ph. DoS). Greater Yellowlegs are regular in winter in the LCRV portion of the region, however 19 was a good count at Vanderslice Rd. in the s. Mohave Valley 4 Feb (DoS). The only report of wintering Dunlin was of up to six at Beal L., HNWR throughout the season (m. ob.). Rare in December, Bonaparte’s Gull reports included singles at Thompson Bay, L. Havasu 8 Dec (ph. LHar, et al.) and on the Havasu CBC 30 Dec (fide DDe). Adding to an increasing number of reports was a Mew Gull at Rotary Park 4-11 Dec (ph. DVP), joined by a second individual there 8 Dec (DVP, ph. LHar et al.). What was apparently the same bird as the second individual was refound there 22 Feb+ (ph. DVP). High counts of Herring Gulls were about average with four on L. Havasu 6-11 Jan (BWal, m. ob.) and 11 at Katherine Landing 23 Jan (DVP, et al.). Representing a first report for Arizona, a probable Herring x Glaucous-winged Gull was present on L. Havasu 1 Dec -11 Jan (ph. TDeB, m. ob.) and was refound at Katherine Landing 23 Jan – 10 Feb (ph. DVP, m. ob.). If accepted by the ABC a Lesser Black-backed Gull at the north end of L. Havasu 9 Jan (LHar, ph. DVP) would be the sixth state record, while a Glaucous Gull at Katherine Landing 23 Jan (ph. DVP, et al.) and relocated at nearby Cabinsite Point 29 Jan (ph. TC) would be the fifth state record. Rare in recent years in winter, up to two Forster’s Terns on L. Havasu continued from the fall until 24 Dec (DVP, DSa).

Inca Doves made a small resurgence in the region with four different flocks being reported, including one of up to nine birds at Rotary Park throughout the period (m. ob.) and up to eight in a yard in BHC throughout the season (JPar). New flocks of 10 each were also reported from a Fort Mohave yard 31 Dec (KC) and at Davis Camp BHC 29 Jan (TC). A Northern Pygmy-Owl reported from Black Rock Mtn. in the Virgin Mtns. 18 Feb (ph. SLa) is the first report for this mountain range. Two male Black-chinned Hummingbirds past the gate in the BWR NWR 24 Feb (LHar) were early. Always casual in the region was a Broad-billed Hummingbird in a BHC yard 8 Feb (ph. DDe). Rarely reported in the region, a Downy Woodpecker was in the rarely visited Virgin Mtns. 18 Feb (ph. SLa). Always interesting in the LCRV portion of the region a flicker with yellow underwings was reported from Davis Camp 29 Jan (TC). “Yellow-shafted” Northern Flicker is perhaps more likely than Gilded Flicker at this location. Now rare in the LCRV, a Gilded Flicker was reported from the Havasu CBC on 30 Dec (TGa). Large falcons are rare in the LCRV portion of the region and this season six Peregrine Falcons were reported between the BWD and BHC 8 Dec – 22 Feb (m. ob.), and four Prairie Falcons were reported between the BWR NWR and the s. Mohave Valley 30 Dec – 7 Feb (m. ob.).

The only Gray Flycatchers reported were at least one in the Mineral Wash area of BWR NWR 11 Dec – 25 Feb (JRi) and one at Windsor Beach 20 Feb (J. Leeak). Rare in winter, a “Western” Flycatcher was reported in both counties at Mineral Wash, BWR NWR 8-9 Jan (ph. JRi). An Ash-throated Flycatcher at Warm Springs Wash near Golden Shores 30 Dec was north of where they usually winter (DVP, et al.). Rare in winter, a Plumbeous Vireo was well described from Mineral Wash, BWR NWR (again in both counties) 17 Jan – 12 Feb (JRi). Increasing in recent years, a Hutton’s Vireo was reported from the North Burn area of BWR NWR 21 Feb (s.r. LHar). Reports of Western Scrub-Jay from the BWR NWR were above average with six reported from both counties there throughout the season. Elsewhere in the LCRV and also continuing from the fall, one was at Lost L., HNWR through 30 Dec (DVP, et al.). Flocks of American Crows were again reported from the s. Mohave Valley with up to 40 being near the El Rio Golf Course 17-27 Dec, increasing to 122 by 3 Jan (both DDe) and 205 at Vanderslice Rd. 21-29 Jan (ph. DVP, LHar), likely including the Mohave Valley flock. Increased coverage of the Virgin Mtns. has resulted in some interesting finds. Species recently discovered in the Virgins, a Steller’s Jay and 35 Pygmy Nuthatches were near Black Rock Mt.; also of interest there were seven Clark’s Nutcrackers, all 18 Feb (all SLa). A count of up to 3500 Tree Swallows in the BWD 16-17 Feb (KB) was early for such high numbers. Rare in the region, an American Dipper was in infrequently birded Spencer Canyon in the Grand Canyon 26 Feb (JPz, J. Stroud-Settles).

Very few Western Bluebirds were reported from the region this season, although Mountain Bluebirds made a good showing with up to 123 on Vanderslice Rd. in the Mohave Valley 23 Jan – 15 Feb (m. ob.). Rare in the desert, two were at Cabinsite Point 8 Jan (DoS) and two were in Kingman Wash, L. Mead NRA 8 Feb (N. Brasier). Only small numbers of American Robins were reported in the LCRV with 18 at Palo Verde Meadows in BHC 22 Feb (DoS) being the high count. Expanding their range north, up to three Curve-billed Thrashers were in the Joshua Tree forest around Meadview 14-16 Feb (S. Baur) and two were at Pierce Ferry 28 Feb+ (JPz). Lapland Longspurs were again found on Vanderslice Rd. in the s. Mohave Valley with three there 21 Jan (DVP, ph. LHar) and one continuing until 23 Jan as well as a new individual discovered there the same day (DVP). McCown’s Longspur has also been found there in recent years and one was present 21 Jan (LHar, DVP). We are still learning about the distribution of Bell’s and Sagebrush sparrows in the region. A recent AZFO research grant was awarded to try and understand this. Within the region Bell’s Sparrow was only known from the LCRV where it appears to be regular in small numbers. Away from the LCRV a potential Bell's was well described from Planet Ranch Rd. in Dutchman Flat 23 Jan (ErH, CSm). Rare in winter on the Arizona Strip, two Song Sparrows were reported from Toquer Tank 10 Jan (SLa). Good numbers of Golden-crowned Sparrows were reported this season with one at Vanderslice Rd. in the s. Mohave Valley 22 Jan (ph. DoS) and three at Pintail Slough HNWR (KB, JRi). No Lawrence’s Goldfinches were reported, and only one American Goldfinch was reported from a BHC yard 8 Feb (DDe).

 

                                   

Coconino

 

Compiled by Lauren Harter

Abbreviations: CCC (Continental Country Club, Flagstaff), GCNP (Grand Canyon National Park)

The season began with a cool December and about average precipitation. In January and February, however, spring came early to Coconino, with warm temperatures and little precipitation. Flagstaff received only 1.5 inches of snowfall in January and two inches in February, well below average. Likely as a result of this mild weather, most notable reports this season were of unseasonal wintering birds, late fall migrants, and early spring migrants.

Rare fall migrants, nine Greater White-fronted Geese continued at CCC to 1 Dec (ph. TL). A female Blue-winged Teal was early for the region 28 Feb at Upper L. Mary (JWi, FG, TL). Cinnamon Teal are rare in winter before mid-February. Following an observation of one at Kachina Wetlands 1 Dec (BHe), a pair was present there 24 Dec-20 Feb (RSl). Another male was at Upper L. Mary 28 Jan-23 Feb (ph. JWi, KM). A count of about 100 Cinnamon Teal at Upper L. Mary 28 Feb was a high count so early in the season (JWi, FG, TL). Northern Pintail and Green-winged Teal migration also peaked 28 Feb, with about 1000 pintails and 600 teal on the lakes southeast of Flagstaff (JWi, FG, TL). Common Goldeneye is an uncommon wintering species on the Mogollon Plateau, so 11 was a good count at Cataract L. 7-10 Jan (CoF).

A dozen Gambel’s Quail were found in Valle 18 Dec (JWi, CLR), part of a population that may be newly established or recently released. Another count of a dozen Gambel’s Quail was reported from Fredonia 12 Feb, where a small natural population persists (LHal). Common Loons are rare but regular fall migrants away from the Colorado R., but two at Ashurst L. 1 Dec were on the late side (DSa). Rare in winter in the region away from L. Powell, an Eared Grebe was a great find in Bellemont 18 Dec (DSa).

Cooper’s Hawk and Bald Eagle are rare in winter in GCNP, so two Cooper’s Hawks and three Bald Eagles on the Grand Canyon CBC 15 Dec were notable (fide BGa). Casual in the region, an imm. Red-shouldered Hawk was at Munds Park 18 Dec (ph. DSa). Although Red-tailed Hawk is a common winter resident throughout the region, 31 was a record count for the Flagstaff CBC 28 Dec (fide TBl). The status of Ferruginous Hawk in the Grand Canyon region in winter is not well understood, so any reports are of interest. This season, one was seen on the Willaha-Anita Loop northwest of Valle 26 Dec (BGa). As in 2012, this was a well above-average season for Rough-legged Hawk in the region, with nine reported. Reports were of two individuals continuing from the fall at Mormon L. to 11 Jan (ph. TL, DSa) with one remaining there to 23 Feb (KM), one at Garland Prairie 31 Dec (RSl), at least one at the Vermilion Cliffs 3-20 Jan (SLa, JPz), three at Kendrick Park 11-21 Jan (JWi) with one continuing there to 23 Feb (JPz), one near Williams 12 Jan-15 Feb (CoF), and one in Fredonia 21 Jan (D. Finch).

Typically considered casual in the region in winter, up to six Virginia Rails were reported from Kachina Wetlands 27 Jan-17 Feb (BH), possibly as a result of the mild winter. A Ring-billed Gull was at Upper L. Mary 26 Feb (TBl), when the species is rare in the region away from L. Powell.

White-winged Doves persist as winter residents of the Flagstaff area. At Elden Spring, one was present 17 Dec (JWi), with 10 there 10 Jan (ph. JWi, GBo) and up to three thereafter to the end of the season. One was at Paria Beach 3 Jan (BGa), unusual away from Page, where the species is now uncommon in winter. Mourning Doves are irregular in winter in the Grand Canyon region, so one at Red Butte 6 Dec (JPz, BrM) and two at Yavapai Point 31 Dec (T. Day) were of interest. Greater Roadrunner tracks were found at an unusual location, Emmett Springs at the Vermilion Cliffs, 21 Dec (CLR, SPu). Another roadrunner was at Twin Arrows Rd. south of I-40 21 Jan, in a part of the region where the species has increased over the past 30 years (JWi, TL, CLR). A Northern Saw-whet Owl was at Desert View 11 Feb (BGa), where rare and irregular.

Rare at high elevations in winter, Belted Kingfishers were at Bellemont 18 Dec (DSa) and the I-40 Wetlands 2 Jan (TBl). Hairy Woodpeckers were found in good numbers this season, with record high counts of 41 on the Grand Canyon CBC 15 Dec (fide BGa) and 25 on the Flagstaff CBC 28 Dec (fide TBl). American Three-toed Woodpeckers continued this season in the Grand Fire, GCNP, with two on the Grand Canyon CBC 15 Dec (fide BGa); two were also reported from the Kaibab NF south of GCNP 9 Feb (JPz). A record high of nine American Kestrels was recorded on the Flagstaff CBC 28 Dec (fide TBl), and a rare winter Peregrine Falcon was found at Marshall L. 29 Jan (RAu).

A Hammond’s Flycatcher was found wintering in the Grand Canyon once again, with one at Indian Garden 15 Dec-2 Feb (JPz). An early migrant Black Phoebe arrived at Cave Springs CG 26 Feb (VN). Casual as a winter resident, a Say’s Phoebe was the first ever recorded on the long-running Flagstaff CBC, 28 Dec (BH). Individuals at Kachina Wetlands 22 Feb (E. Brosseau) and in Timberline 27 Feb (DPq) were likely early migrants.

The only report of Northern Shrike this season was from Fredonia 1 Jan (SPu). An impressive concentration of 335 Common Ravens was noted at Lower L. Mary 4 Jan (BH). The first Violet-green swallow of the season was early at Kachina Wetlands 22 Feb (E. Brosseau). Even more remarkable was a Barn Swallow there about a month early 22 Feb (ph. BHe). Two casual Black-capped Chickadees were reported from Fredonia 1 Jan-12 Feb (SPu, D. Finch, LHal), where the species has been reported annually in recent years. Mountain Chickadees were also found in unusual locations this season as part of a larger irruption into southwestern lowlands. Reports from the Sedona area include three at the Poco Diablo Resort 4 Jan (TBl) and one in Sedona 5 Jan (D. Sears). A small number of birds were also at Lee’s Ferry 19-21 Feb (RMo). A casual Verdin was found in Sedona 13 Dec (ph. JWi), where the species was not reported before 2011 but has been found annually since.

Up to two House Wrens were found at Phantom Ranch 4-10 Feb (ph. RMo); this species may be regular within the Grand Canyon in winter but its status is currently poorly understood. The only Pacific Wren reported this season was at Cave Springs, where they are regular in small numbers, 20 Feb (JWi). A good count of seven Marsh Wrens was at Picture Canyon 28 Dec (BH), where the species winters regularly in small numbers. Casual in winter, a Blue-gray Gnatcatcher was at Paria Beach 20 Jan (BGa). This was a good winter for Golden-crowned Kinglets, with higher than usual numbers around Flagstaff and the Kaibab NF. Notable locations for the species this season included one at Cave Springs CG 5 Dec (SaH) and four at Indian Garden 2 Feb (JPz).

A high count of 350 Mountain Bluebirds was notable at Babbitt L. off Fort Valley Rd. 18 Dec (JWi). Hermit Thrushes are rare in winter at higher elevations. One at Bright Angel Lodge 6 Dec (JPz, BrM) was likely a lingering fall migrant. Later reports included two at Elden Spring 26 Jan-24 Feb (GBo, m. ob.) and one at Fort Valley Rd. 1 Feb (JPz). Two rare but regular Varied Thrushes were found this season, one in Grand Canyon Village 13-18 Dec (EG, ph. JWi) and another at Elden Spring 25 Jan+ (ph. JWi). A rare Gray Catbird continued in Flagstaff to 1 Dec (ZZ). A Northern Mockingbird was seen in the House Rock Valley 20 Jan, when casual there (JPz). Two American Pipits at Rain Tank on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon 13-15 Dec were unusual for that area (BGa, J. Stroud-Settles, EG), as were two at Bellemont 18 Dec (DSa) and two at Wupatki NM 2 Jan (JCr).

This was another poor season for Chestnut-collared Longspurs, with the only reports from Reservation Tank. Reports were of 18 on 16 Jan (JWi, TL), around 25 there 27 Jan, and five there 9 Feb (both JCr). Generally the only warbler species expected in winter is Yellow-rumped Warbler, which was present in good numbers this season, including two on the Grand Canyon CBC 15 Dec (fide BGa) and 12 on the Flagstaff CBC 28 Dec (fide TBl).

A Green-tailed Towhee was in Fredonia 12 Feb, when casual (LHal). Small numbers of Canyon Towhees were found off Twin Arrows Rd. south of I-40, possibly part of a range expansion of this typically sedentary species. At least three were discovered 21 Jan, and another two were nearby at Padre Canyon 26 Jan (ph. JWi, TL, CLR). Casual in winter, two Brewer’s Sparrows were in the inner Grand Canyon 23 Jan (JPz). Up to eight Black-throated Sparrows wintered on the Tonto Platform within the Grand Canyon, where the species is irregular (fide BGa). Savannah Sparrow is casual in winter between mid-December and early February, although they may be overlooked, so two at Babbitt Tank 16 Jan were of interest (JWi, TL). Rare but regular, a Swamp Sparrow wintered at Picture Canyon 6 Dec-5 Feb (RSl, ph. BH). The only White-throated Sparrow reported this season was at Twin Arrows Rd. 21 Jan (JWi, TL, CLR). Harris’s Sparrow is slightly less than annual in the region, so one at Fredonia 1 Jan was a great find (SPu). A good count of Great-tailed Grackles for the region, 60 were at CCC 7 Feb (TBl).

In general, irruptive finches were scarce this year. No finches at all were found on the Mormon L. CBC 14 Dec (fide EM). Cassin’s Finches were absent from the Flagstaff CBC 28 Dec (fide TBl) and generally scarce in the Flagstaff area throughout the season. Numbers increased slightly in February, but the high count was a mere 18 reported from Williams 26 Feb (EP). One notable report was of two from Marg’s Draw Trail in Sedona 23 Dec, where rare in winter (MWeb). Surprisingly, the only report of Red Crossbill was of two at Mormon L. 23 Dec (MWeb). Pine Siskins were nearly absent from the region, with only five found on the Grand Canyon CBC 15 Dec (fide BGa) and two on the Flagstaff CBC 28 Dec (fide TBl); few were reported from the region in general outside of CBCs. Fairly small numbers of Evening Grosbeaks were present in the Flagstaff area during December, but the Flagstaff CBC 28 Dec reported a record count of 80 (fide TBl), mostly in the Timberline area. Outside of that neighborhood, numbers remained low throughout the season.

 

Navajo and Hopi Nations

 

Compiled by Jason Wilder

This winter began with a rare temperature inversion in most of the Four Corners region that caused dense freezing fog to fill low-lying areas from late November through the first week of December. Effects of this unusual event on birds are unclear, but low numbers of normally common birds recorded during the Glen Canyon CBC may reflect weather-related mortality. The remainder of the season was relatively mild, with little precipitation or major storms.

Snow Goose is a rare winter visitor to the region and several apparently overwintered in Page. At the Page WTP two were observed 3 Dec (RMo), with the count rising to three by 1 Feb (RMo, LPi). In addition, two Snow Geese found at the Page Golf Course 2 Dec (G. Nealon) were likely the same pair reported 4 Jan on the Glen Canyon CBC. Tundra Swan is a casual winter visitor on larger bodies of water; one was found on Cow Springs L. 9-22 Feb (ph. LPi, RMo). Wood Duck is a rare but regular winter resident; a single bird was reported at the Antelope Point Marina 9 Dec (LPi), another was at the Wahweap Marina 12 Jan (LPi), and two were found during the Glen Canyon CBC 4 Jan (m.ob.). While regularly occurring along the Colorado R. in winter, 25 was a good count for Greater Scaup in a flock upriver from Lee’s Ferry 4 Jan (BGa). Long-tailed Duck is casual, but nearly annual along the Colorado. A single bird was a nice find at the Page WTP 2-3 Dec (ph. G. Nealon). Barrow’s Goldeneye is annual in small numbers along the Colorado R. This year a record low of two was observed as part of the Glen Canyon CBC 4 Jan (fide JS), surpassing the previous low of seven since the count began in 1999; a single bird was also reported 24 Feb at Lee’s Ferry (RSl). Hooded Merganser is a regular but rare winter resident on waterways throughout the region; one was at Lee’s Ferry 9 Jan (H. & R. McDermott). Red-breasted Merganser commonly winters on L. Powell, but this year there was only a single report of one individual 4 Jan (m. ob.). Although generally rare across the region, Horned Grebe is an uncommon winter resident on L. Powell where three were observed 4 Jan (fide JS).

Virginia Rail overwinters very locally in the region. Four were recorded 19 Dec (CLR, JCn, JWi) at Pasture Canyon and one was upstream from Lee’s Ferry 4 Jan (BGa). Sora has a similar overwintering distribution and two were at Pasture Canyon 19 Dec (CLR, JCn, JWi). Shorebirds are unusual at any time of year in the region. A remarkable sighting was a late Western Sandpiper seen foraging on the ice-rimmed ponds of the Tuba City WTP 19 Dec (ph. JWi, CLR, JCn). This is the first winter record for this species in the region.

L. Powell regularly hosts a smattering of overwintering gulls, the majority of which are Ring-billed Gulls. A California Gull was reported at Wahweap Marina 20 Jan (RSl), which is only the second winter report of this species in the region. Herring Gull is a casual winter visitor; one was reported at the Page WTP 8 Dec (RMo).

White-winged Dove overwinters regularly in communities along the Mogollon Rim, but is rare in the Navajo and Hopi nations in winter. One individual was seen at Paria Beach (Lee’s Ferry) 3 Jan (BGa).

In early winter, Bushtits were detected in higher than usual numbers at low elevations, a pattern continuing from the fall. On 24 Dec groups of eight, 22, and 33 were reported from the Little Colorado R. valley near Cameron (CLR). House Wren typically departs the region in late fall, and few linger into winter. Two were reported at Cameron on two separate occasions, 24 Dec and 2 Jan (both CLR). Blue-gray Gnatcatcher is a sparse winter resident at low elevations along the Colorado R. A single individual was reported at Lee’s Ferry 20 Jan (BGa) and 26 Feb (R. LeBlanc). Continuing from the fall, a Rufous-backed Robin (one of two originally found 19 Nov) lingered at the Cameron Trading Post through 16 Jan (m. ob.).

With the exception of Yellow-rumped Warblers, there are few expected overwintering warblers in the region. An Orange-crowned Warbler, less than annual in winter along the Colorado R., was reported near Lee’s Ferry 4 Jan (BGa) and 21 Feb (RMo), and another was at Wahweap Marina 20 Jan (RSl). Even more unusual was a MacGillivray’s Warbler, casual in winter, reported near Lee’s Ferry 4 Jan (RMo).

An unusual diversity of overwintering sparrows was recorded. Brewer's Sparrow is a rare winter visitor and there were three separate reports near Cameron this year: one at Cameron Seep 2 Jan (CLR) and 8 Jan (JWi), one at Tappan Spring 8 Jan (ph. JWi), and two south of Cameron along Black Mesa Pump Station Rd. 14 Jan (BH). A Black-throated Sparrow, which is a sparse winter resident, was seen at Cameron 2 Jan (CLR) and 1 Feb (J. & N. Crosby). Fox Sparrow is surprisingly sparse, and one “slate-colored” individual seen along the bank of the Little Colorado R. at Cameron Dec 24-27 (CLR) marks only the third record for the region. Swamp Sparrow is a casual winter resident. One was seen at Pasture Canyon 19 Dec (CLR, JCn, JWi). A pattern that continued from the fall was a higher than usual number of White-throated Sparrows, a rare winter visitor in the region. This winter’s reports include: one at the Page WTP 3 Dec (ph. RMo) and 1 Feb (ph. RMo, LPi), one in Pasture Canyon 19 Dec (CLR, JCn, JWi), one at the Cameron Trading Post and nearby Cameron Seep 8-31 Jan (m.ob.), and one at Tappan Spring 8 Jan (JWi).

 

 

 

Yavapai

 

Compiled by Troy Corman and Carl Tomoff

 

Abbreviations: Willow Creek Reservoir (Willow L.), Sedona Wetland Preserve (Sedona WP)

Casual winter visitors, eight Greater White-fronted Geese were discovered near Cottonwood during the Jerome CBC 15 Dec (J. Wills) with at least seven remaining through 2 Jan (m.ob.). Snow Geese at Willow L. increased to five through early December, including the blue morph individual through the Prescott CBC 18 Dec (CT, m.ob) and four remaining through 22 Jan (SHo). A Ross’s Goose was noted with the Snow Geese 9-15 Dec (SuB, m. ob.). A likely candidate for a Cackling Goose was with Canada Geese at Willow L. 6-15 Jan (ph. MN, KAr). Rare in winter, a Tundra Swan arrived at Willow L. 9 Dec (S&SB) and remained through the end of the season (SDr). An exceptional high count of 99 Wood Ducks was counted on the Camp Verde CBC 22 Dec (fide BCo). A male Eurasian Wigeon foraged among dozens of American Wigeon at Montezuma Well 3 Dec (CT et al.). A late Cinnamon Teal was noted at Willow L. 1 Jan (SDr, StB) and one to three possibly wintering birds were reported at the Sedona WP 1-20 Jan (SaH, VN). Nearly 8500 ducks and geese remained to be counted on the Prescott CBC 18 Dec (CT, S&SB). Some of the highest numbers included 2530 American Wigeons, 1523 Northern Shovelers, 548 Canvasbacks, 306 Buffleheads, 259 Common Mergansers, and 1440 Ruddy Ducks. Red-breasted Mergansers are casual to rare winter visitors, so three at Willow L. 4 Dec (MN), one at Dead Horse Ranch SP 5 Jan (BHe), and two individuals in a cove of Castle Cr. near its mouth with L. Pleasant 19 Jan – 6 Feb (TC, LHal) were of note.

A casual winter visitor through much of the region, a Horned Grebe was noted in a cove near the mouth of Castle Cr. and L. Pleasant 13 Jan (KR) with two there 19 Jan – 6 Feb (TC, ph. LHal). Accidental in winter at Prescott, an adult Black-crowned Night-Heron roosted in a residential neighborhood in Prescott Heights Jan 28-31 (F. & J. Deneki, E. Moore).

A White-tailed Kite returned to the Willow L. area 30 Dec (ZS) through at least 15 Feb (ph. M&FSh). As typical, the first returning Common Black-Hawk report came from Page Springs on 21 Feb (SaH). A casual but possibly increasing visitor to Yavapai Co., a Red-shouldered Hawk was discovered 11 Dec in Chino Valley (ph. ZS) where it remained at least through 18 Dec (T. Steinborn). Another visited Antelope Hills Golf Course in north Prescott 16-18 Dec (CT). Rough-legged Hawks are casual to rare winter visitors to the region, so two in Chino Valley 8 Dec were good finds (ph. ZS, R. Crouse) with at least one remaining through 11 Dec (ZS).

Seldom reported in winter, one to two Common Gallinules apparently wintered at the Sedona WTP 4 Jan – 15 Feb (VN, RAr). The mild season allowed for a Greater Yellowlegs and three Least Sandpipers to linger at Willow L. through the Prescott CBC 18 Dec (CT) with two Least Sandpipers remaining through 15 Jan (CLe).

An impressive 56 Bonaparte’s Gulls briefly visited Willow L. 4 Dec (MN) and two late migrants made it to the Prescott CBC 18 Dec (CT). Possibly a first winter record for Yavapai Co. and one of few January records for the state, an adult Franklin’s Gull was in the Castle Cr. mouth area of L. Pleasant 7-15 Jan (SaH, KR, VN). Rare early winter migrants, seven California Gulls were noted at Watson L. 6 Dec (DM, CT) and another was reported on the Prescott CBC 18 Dec (CT). Casual in winter, an adult Herring Gull was in the Castle Cr. mouth area of L. Pleasant 13 Jan – 13 Feb (KR, LHal, DShe, ph. ErH).

Wintering White-winged Dove populations appear to be steadily increasing in number and distribution. A high number of 10 were on the Chino Valley CBC 16 Dec (fide RDue) and 23 were counted on the Camp Verde CBC 22 Dec (fide BCo). Unexpected, particularly in winter, were two Inca Doves on the Chino Valley CBC 16 Dec. (fide RDue). The Ruddy Ground-Dove noted in November near Watson Woods remained through at least 2 Dec (SaH).

Although possibly resident in mountain ranges around Prescott, the secretive nature of N. Saw-whet Owls often allows them to go undetected unless a specific effort is made. Therefore, two reported on the Prescott CBC 18 Dec was of note (RHu). Early or wintering locally, a Common Poorwill was found 11 Feb in the lower Weaver Cr. area ne. of Wickenburg (ErH et al.).

Lingering from the fall movement into the area, six Lewis’s Woodpeckers were counted on the Prescott CBC 18 Dec (CT, ZS) and at least 10 remained at three locations through the period (CT). Rare winter visitors, a male Yellow-bellied Sapsucker was noted at the Wet Beaver Creek CG and picnic area 18-22 Dec (R. Kellman, VN), and a second was reported on the Camp Verde CBC 22 Dec (fide BCo). At lower than normal elevation, a Downy Woodpecker visited a west Sedona yard from late December through at least 20 Jan (RAr), one was at Dead Horse Ranch SP 17 Dec – 19 Feb (SaH, RSl), and another was at the V-V visitor center on Wet Beaver Cr. 5 Jan (VN et al.). Likely rare migrants and sparse winter visitors, a Northern (Yellow-shafted) Flicker was discovered on the Prescott CBC 18 Dec (RAr).

Casual to rare in winter in the region, a Hammond’s Flycatcher was noted on the Chino Valley CBC 16 Dec (fide RDue). In the Verde Valley, singles were at Montezuma Castle NM 13 Dec (RSl), Clear Creek Campground 27 Dec (RSl), and Wet Beaver Cr. picnic area 20 Dec – 11 Jan (VN, ph. SaH). Another was at Dead Horse Ranch SP 4 Jan (GBo).

The winter status of Pacific and Winter Wrens in Arizona is still unclear. Two Pacific Wrens resided through February below the dam at Willow L. (MiR, CT et al.). Three more wintered along Bannon Cr. near lower Goldwater L. (MiR). Another Pacific Wren near Granite Basin L. 22 Feb may have wintered there (DM, CT). A Winter Wren was detected there (seen and diagnostic call heard) 1 Jan (WA). Irregular visitors with few documented records, two to four Eastern Bluebirds of the brighter nominate Eastern race were at Montezuma L. 27 Jan – 15 Feb (ph. VN, m. ob.). It was an exceptional winter for bluebirds and robins in several sections of the region. This was emphasized by a high of 2170 Mountain Bluebirds and 2319 American Robins on the Chino Valley CBC 16 Dec (fide RDue). It was interesting that the nearby Prescott CBC reported no Mountain Bluebirds. Seldom reported in the region, two Chestnut-collared Longspurs were noted on the Chino Valley CBC 16 Dec (RDue). Rare but regular in winter, a Black-and-white Warbler was at Page Springs 6 Jan (ph. DSa). A Painted Redstart likely returned for its second winter at Lo Lo Mai Spring Campground where it was detected 20 Jan – 12 Feb (SaH, VN). A surprising find was a male Summer Tanager at the V-V visitor center on Wet Beaver Cr. 5 Jan (ph. VN et al.). There a few winter records for Yavapai Co. Quite exceptional for the region in winter, an adult male Lazuli Bunting was visiting a feeder at Dead Horse Ranch SP 9-26 Jan (RSl, ph. SaH). There are few if any prior January records for Yavapai Co.

Unusual in winter, a Green-tailed Towhee was found on the Prescott CBC 18 Dec (RAr). Another was found 17 Feb in Skull Valley (CT). Casual at best in winter, a Clay-colored Sparrow was discovered near Cornville 1 Jan (E. Gofreed, SaH). Proving to be rare to locally uncommon winter visitors, three Grasshopper Sparrows were noted near Red Tank Draw off SR179 25 Jan (ph. GBo). Rare but regular winter visitors, the only Swamp Sparrow was noted south of the Village of Oak Creek 13 Dec (VN).

Three Red Crossbills in a Prescott yard 21 Feb were likely on the move (L. Rhoden). Lawrence’s Goldfinches were sparsely reported in Arizona this fall, so four documented along the upper Hassayampa R. se. of Wilhoit 2 Dec were of note (MiR). Irregular winter visitors to the region, an Evening Grosbeak was at Red Tank Draw 3 Jan – 13 Feb (ph. GBo), one was at the V-V visitor center 5 Jan - 18 Feb (VN et al.), one to three were in a west Sedona yard 9-20 Jan (RAr), and seven were at the Red Rock Ranger Station 27 Feb (RSl).

 

              

 

White Mountains

Compiled by Eric Hough

Above-average temperatures and well below-average precipitation marked this region, with storm events mostly at the beginning and end of the season. Most of the region, except the highest elevations of the White Mtns. and Mogollon Rim, lacked snow cover for most of the winter. As with some other parts of the state, numbers of Townsend’s Solitaires were higher than usual, as were those of Mountain Bluebirds and American Robins, with hundreds gathering at locations with good juniper cone crops. No other large irruptions of species were noted, except for locally high concentrations of Cassin’s Finches.

Tundra Swans are rare winter visitors to the region in some years, with one adult discovered at Jacques Marsh in Lakeside 25 Jan (ph. ErH et al.). A rare transient, one female Red-breasted Merganser was at Becker L. in Springerville 5 Jan (ErH). A light-morph Rough-legged Hawk was observed at Point of Pines in n. Graham Co. 12 Dec (ph. JC); this species occurs in small numbers annually across the northern part of the state but is unusual below the Mogollon Rim.

The presence of White-winged Doves year-round in n. Arizona suggests that these birds belong to the Chihuahuan Desert race, as the state’s Sonoran Desert population migrates south into Mexico during winter. One of these doves was at Holbrook 17 Jan (ASO). A rare winter visitor, an imm. Yellow-bellied Sapsucker was at Heber 11 Dec (ph. ErH, BHo). A ‘Prairie’ (richardsoni) Merlin, another species occurring in small numbers throughout the state during this season, was found in Eagar 5 Jan (ErH). American Crows have been previously found to be local residents as far south in the state as Point of Pines in ne. Graham Co., with a 12 Dec trip yielding concentrations of 56 crows along IR 8 and 11 south of Point of Pines, 15 birds at Point of Pines L., and one bird at Bobcat Tank (all JC).

Possibly only a second record for Navajo Co. and one of the few known regional records, a Winter Wren was found along the N. Fork of the White R. south of Alchesay Hatchery 25 Jan (ph. ErH et al.). Last year American Dippers were discovered along the N. Fork of the White R. near Alchesay Hatchery and this year birds continued to be found, suggesting local residency and possibly breeding on this stretch of the river. Four dippers were found here 21 Jan (ph. ErH) with three birds still present 25 Jan (ph. ErH, JCr et al.). One of the most interesting finds of the winter season, a flock of at least eight Eastern Bluebirds was encountered along Alchesay Hatchery Rd. near Whiteriver 21 Jan (ph. ErH). There are only a handful of prior reports of this species for the region and this appears to be a first record for Navajo Co. As the Mexican race (‘Azure Bluebird’) breeding in se. Arizona is regarded as being nonmigratory, these birds were likely of one of the eastern subspecies. An uncommon year-round resident on the s. Colorado Plateau, one Crissal Thrasher was found at Holbrook 19 Jan (ASO). American Pipits are usually rare in winter above the Mogollon Rim, but the lack of snow cover this year likely led to more wintering on the s. Colorado Plateau. A flock of 15 was at Jacques Marsh in Lakeside 21 Jan (ErH), and a flock of 66 was present at the same location 25 Jan (ErH et al.).

Other than White-crowned and Song sparrows, most sparrow species rarely linger into winter on the Colorado Plateau. Notable this season were a flock of five Brewer’s Sparrows west of Chevelon Cr. southwest of Joseph City 14 Feb (RAu), a Black-throated Sparrow at Taylor 20 Dec (NW, CWor), and a Lincoln’s Sparrow at Jacques Marsh in Lakeside 29 Dec (LL). Rare, but likely regular in the region, a White-throated Sparrow was found in Taylor 21 Dec (NW, CWor). While Cassin’s Finches generally were not found in high numbers in the region this winter, a flock of 32+ was present along Alchesay Hatchery Rd. near Whiteriver 21-25 Jan (ErH et al.).

 

Southwest

 

Compiled by Lauren Harter and David Vander Plyum

Abbreviations: 'Ahakhav Tribal Preserve ('Ahakhav), Bill Williams Delta, Bill Williams River NWR (BWD), Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge (BWR NWR), Cibola Valley Conservation Area (CVCA), Laguna Division Conservation Area (LDCA), Solar and Wind Power Ponds near Wellton (SWP Ponds)

Although this season began with only slightly warm and dry conditions in December and a single rainstorm in Yuma 19-20 December, January and February were very warm, with no rainfall recorded. Probably linked to the mild conditions, many of the notable reports this season were of unseasonable visitors and vagrants from the south. Some of the most notable vagrants included Blue-footed and Brown boobies, White Ibis, Crested Caracara, Rufous-backed Robin, and Lapland Longspur. The Bill Williams R. and Bill Williams Delta are divided by the Mohave-La Paz county line, so some sightings from those locations not mentioned here are covered in the Mohave report.

The long-staying Greater White-fronted Goose at Coyote Wash Golf Course near Wellton continued throughout the season (HD, AB, MMc). The only regular wintering location for Greater White-fronted Goose in the region is Cibola NWR, where up to five were reported 18 Dec-15 Feb (m. ob.). Numbers of wintering Snow Geese at Cibola NWR were somewhat low this season, with a season high count of 425 on the refuge 5 Dec (W. Hooper). Snow Geese are rare outside of the Cibola area; other reports this season were of one at Coyote Wash Golf Course 1 Dec (HD, AB, MMc), eight in the Parker Valley 9 Dec (EE), and one at the SWP Ponds 28 Dec (HD et al.). The season high count of Ross’s Goose at Cibola NWR was 15 on 18 Dec (LHar, DVP). One was at the BWD 21 Feb, where rare (LHar).

Cackling Goose is probably regular at Cibola NWR, but these birds are difficult to pick out from the thousands of Canada Geese. The first report this season was of two, thought to be B. h. taverneri, 18 Dec. These were joined by a third individual 1 Jan and the three birds were present once again 17 Jan (all ph. LHar, DVP). Two new individuals were also discovered 17 Jan, one possibly B. h. minima and the other probably B. h. leucopareia (ph. DVP, LHar). A visit 9 Feb turned up two individuals, one probably continuing from 17 Jan, both possibly B. h. leucopareia (PL, BC). Canada Goose is uncommon to rare in Yuma Co.; reports this season were of one at Coyote Wash Golf Course 1 Dec (HD, AB, MMc), one at Yuma East Wetlands 10 Dec-2 Jan (M. Lesnik), and 10 at LDCA 14 Dec (HD, SDe). The high count of Canada Geese from Cibola NWR, the main wintering area for this species in the LCRV, was 4000 on 16 Dec (W. Hooper), more than reported in recent years. The status of “Lesser” Canada Goose, B. c. parvipes, in the region is unclear, but it seems to be regular in small numbers at Cibola NWR. Up to 20 were reported from that area 18 Dec-17 Jan, although more were thought to be present (LHar, DVP). One of the most unusual geese found at Cibola NWR this season was an apparent Greater White-fronted x Canada Goose hybrid there 17 Jan (ph. DVP, ph. LHar).

Wood Duck is rare in the region, so five at Cibola NWR 19 Dec were notable (J. Crawford). At the Baseline Rd. Pond in Cibola, where Wood Ducks are usually present in small numbers, two were present 1 Jan and one was there 25 Jan (LHar). Excellent counts of some dabbling ducks were reported from Cibola NWR, including 1500 American Wigeons 24 Jan (A. Stepniewski), and 4000 Mallards and 1500 Northern Pintail 17 Jan (LHar). Well above average for the region, five Mexican x Northern Mallard intergrades were reported this season. Three were at Cibola NWR 17 Jan (LHar, DVP), one was near Parker Dam 18 Jan (LHar et al.), and one was in the Parker Strip 8 Feb (LHar). An apparent pure male Mexican Duck was at the Baseline Rd. Pond 18 Dec (LHar, ph. DVP). Blue-winged Teal is rare in winter in the region. One was at Yuma East Wetlands 24 Dec (TDeb, MWeb) and 10 were at Cocopah RV Park 25 Dec (HD). Cinnamon Teal is rare in winter before mid-February, but sometimes present in small numbers, especially near Yuma. Noteworthy reports this season included 21 at LDCA 14 Dec (HD, SDe), two at Yuma East Wetlands 18 Dec-3 Jan (LHar, DVP), two at BWD 1 Jan (LHar), and four at Mineral Wash on the BWR NWR 9 Jan (JRi).

Two Surf Scoters at the BWD 22 Dec (M. Anderson, DPe) may have been continuing from early December (see Mohave report). Good numbers of Hooded Mergansers wintered at Cocopah RV Resort, with 30 there 25 Dec and 26 there 5 Jan (both HD). This species is casual in the region away from the LCRV, where appropriate habitat is limited and underbirded, so a report of four from Coyote Wash Golf Course 28 Dec was of interest (HD et al.). A total of 54 Common Mergansers at the SWP Ponds 28 Dec was also a good count away from the LCRV (HD et al.). A Red-breasted Merganser was a good find at Martinez L. on the CBC 14 Dec (fide HD), and three stopped at Mittry L. 22-28 Dec (BJS, M. Stacey).

The continuing Blue-footed Booby at the BWD spent most of its time in La Paz Co. before disappearing 15 Feb (m. ob.). Although the Brown Booby on L. Havasu was primarily seen on the main body of the lake in Mohave Co., it ventured into La Paz Co. at the BWD at least three times during its stay: 17 Dec (JRi), 3 Feb (CMc), 13 Feb (DVP, LHar), and 15 Feb (LN). See the Mohave report for more on both boobies. As the range of Neotropic Cormorant continues to expand, the species is becoming more regular in the region with every season, north to L. Havasu. Reports from Yuma Co. this season include at least two wintering at Yuma East Wetlands 18 Dec-8 Feb (DVP, LHar), one at Yuma Main Drain 22-29 Dec (ph. BJS, M. Stacey), and one at the Yuma Conservation Garden 14-15 Feb (ph. C. Hagen). In the Parker Dam/BWD area where Neotropic Cormorants are consistently present in small numbers, the high count was of seven at Parker Dam 4 Feb (J. Dunn). American White Pelicans are rare but regular winter visitors in small numbers in the region. There were few reports this season: one at Cibola NWR 6 Dec (J. Crawford), one at Imperial Dam 14 Dec (HD, SDe), and two at Martinez L. 27 Feb+ (LHar, DVP).

The only Least Bittern reported north of Yuma was at the BWD 1 Jan, where rare in winter (LHar). A remarkable find was an imm. White Ibis at Yuma East Wetlands 11 Dec+ (DSu, L. Dubbels), potentially only the eighth record for Arizona and the first since 2005. The high count of White-faced Ibis for the season was of 900 in the n. Parker Valley 3 Jan (LHar, DVP).

A count of 155 Turkey Vultures, high for so early in the season, was reported from Cibola NWR 24 Jan (A. Stepniewski). White-tailed Kites are rare but regular residents in the region, and found primarily at riparian habitat restoration areas. Reports this season were of up to two at Yuma East Wetlands 11 Dec-26 Jan (M. Lesnik) and up to two at Imperial NWR 7-25 Feb (BZa). Bald Eagles are reported in small numbers slightly less than annually in Yuma Co.; reports this season were of imm. birds at Yuma East Wetlands 15 Dec and at the SWP Ponds 28 Dec (both HD), and one at Imperial NWR 5-7 Feb (D. Greenberg). Reports of rare but regular Red-shouldered Hawks were from Betty’s Kitchen 22 Dec (ph. BJS), Cibola NWR 27 Jan (ph. R. and C. Hargraves), and Mosquito Flats on the BWR NWR 10 Feb (DVP). An imm. Swainson’s Hawk was well over a month early south of Yuma 8 Feb (ph. JKell, BJS, HD). For the sixth consecutive winter, a Zone-tailed Hawk was seen in Yuma, this year found 2 Dec (HD), and presumably the same bird seen again 31 Jan (AB, HBor). As with last year, the agricultural areas south of Yuma attracted good numbers of wintering raptors, including this season 97 Red-tailed Hawks and 36 Ferruginous Hawks 1 Dec-26 Jan (both HD, m. ob.), and one or two Golden Eagles 24 Dec (M. Anderson) and 26 Jan (TJ, T. Reed, RCr). An adult Golden Eagle was at Cibola NWR 6 Jan (ph. BWal).

Rare in winter, American Avocets were present in above-average numbers this season, with one at the BWD 1 Dec (TDeb, GKa), two at Yuma East Wetlands 16 Jan (LHal), four at Hart Mine Marsh on Cibola NWR 17 Jan (DVP, LHar), and one at Alamo L. 26 Jan (DVP, LHar). Good numbers of Mountain Plovers wintered south of Yuma, with at least 90 found 1 Dec (HD, AB, MMc) and about 50 there 21 Dec (HD et al.). They are generally less regular and less numerous in the Parker Valley, where the only report this season was a good count of 133 on Tsosie Rd. 1 Jan (ph. LHar). Good numbers of Greater Yellowlegs wintered in the s. Parker Valley, with a high count of 36 on 22 Feb (DVP, m. ob.). A Lesser Yellowlegs at Yuma East Wetlands 26 Jan (CMc) was remarkable, and one of only a handful of winter reports for the region. A group of five Long-billed Curlews near Imperial Dam 14 Dec (DVP, BoM) and 10 at Imperial NWR 16 Feb (R. Sage) were farther north than most wintering individuals. The largest wintering concentrations are in agricultural areas s. of Yuma, where the high count 21-29 Dec was 240 (HD, m. ob.). Only 70 were in the area 26 Jan (HD, AB). In the s. Parker Valley, where Long-billed Curlew is rare in winter, 23 were found 3 Jan (ph. DoS). Dunlin were scarce this winter, with the only reports being of one at LDCA 14 Dec (HD, SDe) and five in the s. Parker Valley 16 Dec (DVP, LHar). A Bonaparte’s Gull was discovered at Alamo L. 26 Jan, when casual (KR). Rare but annual as far s. as the BWD, a Herring Gull was present at the BWD 5-17 Dec (LHar, m. ob.).

Rare but regular in Yuma Co. in winter, White-winged Dove reports were of two in Yuma 8 Dec (B. Michael) and one s. of Yuma 25-28 Dec (HD). A casual Short-eared Owl was a great find on the Barry Goldwater Range 5 Feb (JAr). A Rufous Hummingbird on the Barry Goldwater Range was on the early side 24 Feb (ErH). A rare “Yellow-shafted” Northern Flicker was well-described from Planet Ranch Rd., BWR NWR 22 Jan (KB). Two imm. Crested Caracaras were a remarkable find in agricultural areas s. of Yuma 23 Dec-5 Jan (CG, M. J. Hagge), one of few recent records for the region. Both uncommon and local in the region, there were a total of eight Peregrine Falcons as well as eight Prairie Falcons reported this season from the LCRV and Gila River Valley portions of the region (m. ob.).

The Greater Pewee found at 'Ahakhav last fall continued throughout the season (LHar, m. ob.). An unidentified Empidonax flycatcher (Dusky/Hammond’s) was photographed at Mosquito Flats, BWR NWR 22 Dec (ph. M. Anderson). Possibly the same bird, a rare in winter Hammond’s Flycatcher was there 29 Dec -3 Jan (DVP); another non-Gray Empidonax was also seen there 29 Dec (DVP). Another Hammond’s Flycatcher was at Nature Trail, Cibola NWR 17 Jan+ (DVP, LHar). Gray Flycatcher is the most expected Empidonax in winter, but still uncommon to rare. Reports this season were of one at 'Ahakhav 22 Jan, one in the Butler Valley at Alamo Rd. 26 Jan, and one at Cougar Point on the BWR NWR 19 Feb (all LHar). An Eastern Phoebe was a great find at Yuma East Wetlands 14 Dec (HD, SDe). The Mosquito Flats Nutting’s Flycatcher was last reported 8 Feb (m. ob.). Remarkably, another was discovered at Mineral Wash on the BWR NWR 25 Feb (s.r. DVP), thought to possibly be one of the offspring from last year’s successful nesting.

A Bell’s Vireo was a surprising find at 'Ahakhav 8 Feb (LHar). Although there were no additional sightings, the date suggests that the bird wintered locally. The presence of two Gray Vireos in the Dome Rock Mtns. w. of Quartzsite 11 Dec (CSm) was a surprising discovery, as this species is almost unknown as a winter resident in La Paz Co. A rare winter Cassin’s Vireo was at Planet Ranch Rd., BWR NWR 15 Jan (JRi). Hutton’s Vireo is considered casual in the LCRV, but recent years have seen a significant increase in reports. This season one was heard in the Crossriver section of BWR NWR 24 Feb (s.r. LHar). Casual in winter, a Bank Swallow was a surprising visitor to Yuma East Wetlands 23-24 Dec (M. Anderson, MWeb, TDeb), as was a probable early Barn Swallow there 14 Feb (D. O’Brien). Cactus Wren has declined dramatically in the LCRV, so any reports are of interest. Continuing birds on the BWR NWR included two at Mosquito Flats throughout the season (m. ob.) and at least one near the end of Planet Ranch Rd. 24 Jan (LHar). Another singing bird was at Cienega Springs on the Parker Strip 22 Jan (LHar).

Reports of irruptive landbirds were remarkably few this season. The only report of rare Golden-crowned Kinglet was of two at Riverside Park in Yuma 12 Feb (T. Gould). Both species of bluebirds were scarce this winter, with only 11 Western Bluebirds reported from three locations (m. ob.) and the only Mountain Bluebirds being up to seven in the s. Parker Valley 1-3 Jan (LHar). Casual in the LCRV, a Rufous-backed Robin was a great find in Wellton 16 Feb+ (ph. HD, SDe). Generally low numbers of American Robins were reported throughout the region with the exception of Yuma East Wetlands, where the high count this season was 250 on 19 Feb (m. ob.). Cedar Waxwings were nearly absent from the region, with a flock of 15 at Buckskin Mountain SP 23-26 Jan (A. Bragg), six on the BWR NWR (Mohave and La Paz Co.) 13 Feb (LHar, DVP), and possibly the same six at Mineral Wash on the BWR NWR 25 Feb (DVP).

A Lapland Longspur was a great find in the Parker Valley 13 Feb (LHar, DVP). If accepted by the ABC, this would be the first record of this species from the region since 1977! It was a good season for rare but regular Black-and-white Warblers, with three reports: one at Nature Trail, Cibola NWR 2 Jan (ph. DoS), one at 'Ahakhav 22 Jan (LHar), and one at Yuma East Wetlands 11-23 Feb (D. O’Brien). A Lucy’s Warbler at the end of Planet Ranch Rd., BWR NWR 24 Feb may be the earliest report ever for the LCRV (LHar). Rare but regular, a young male American Redstart was at Yuma East Wetlands 11 Feb+ (MLe, CMc). Yellow Warbler is rare but regular in winter; a female wintered at Yuma East Wetlands 18 Dec-11 Feb (DVP, LHar). A rarely reported intergrade “Audubon’s” x “Myrtle” Yellow-rumped Warbler was described from Yuma East Wetlands 18 Dec (DVP, LHar). Black-throated Gray Warbler is rare, but regular in small numbers in winter in the region. One wintered at Yuma East Wetlands 18 Dec+ (ph. DVP, LHar) and singles were seen at Cougar Point on the BWR NWR 29 Dec and Nature Trail at Cibola NWR 1 Jan (both LHar). More noteworthy was a casual winter Townsend’s Warbler at the end of Planet Ranch Rd., BWR NWR 24 Jan (LHar). Probably an early migrant, a Wilson’s Warbler was at Yuma West Wetlands 15 Feb (W. Bowers). Possibly the first winter record for the LCRV, a Yellow-breasted Chat was a great find in the Parker Strip 27-28 Dec (ph. S. Eagler).

Fox Sparrows are casual in the LCRV in recent years, so a “Slate-colored” Fox Sparrow at Mosquito Flats, BWR NWR 10 Jan was unexpected (LHar, ph. DVP, m. ob.). Golden-crowned Sparrows have been annual in the region in recent years, but a total of five this season was exceptional. Four of these were discovered on the BWR NWR CBC 29 Dec: two together at Kohen Ranch (both counties), which continued through the end of the season (ph. LHar), one at Mosquito Flats last reported 17 Feb (ph. DVP), and one at Cougar Pt. (LHar). Another was at the Oxbow CG near Cibola NWR 13 Jan-1 Feb (ph. J. Crawford).

A pair of Northern Cardinals was present at Cougar Pt. on the BWR NWR 29 Dec, with the male reported through the end of the season (LHar). This species is a rare and local resident in the region, only in the eastern portion of the Bill Williams R. The first Hooded Oriole of the season was early in Wellton 28 Feb (L.D. Smith), as were two Bullock’s Orioles at Yuma East Wetlands 19 Feb (AB). Lawrence’s and American Goldfinches were scarce this season. The only report of Lawrence’s was from Mineral Wash on the BWR NWR 25 Feb (DVP). Reports of American Goldfinches were of one at Betty’s Kitchen 22 Dec (BJS, M. Stacey), up to seven at 'Ahakhav 1 Jan-27 Feb (LHar, m. ob.), and one at Yuma East Wetlands 18 Feb (TJ, T. Reed).

 

 

 

South-Central

Compiled by Walter Thurber

 

Abbreviations: Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park (BTA), Glendale Recharge Ponds (GRP), Greater Phoenix Area Waterbird Census (GPW), Hassayampa River Preserve, Wickenburg (HRP), Lower River Road Ponds, Palo Verde (LRP), Morgan City Wash at Lake Pleasant Regional Park (MCW), Phoenix metropolitan area (Valley), Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch, Gilbert (GWR), Tempe Town Lake (TTL), Tres Rios Wetlands, Phoenix (TRW). The Granite Reef, Coon Bluff, Phon D. Sutton, Foxtail/Sheeps Crossing and Butcher Jones recreation sites lie within the Lower Salt River Recreation Area on the Tonto National Forest.

 

The South-Central Region includes all of Maricopa Co. along with the portions of Pinal Co. lying north of the Gila R. and west of Casa Grande. Elevations in the region range from 425 feet on the Gila R. near Hyder to 7657 feet at Brown’s Peak in the Mazatzal Mtns. Hence, there is considerable habitat diversity, varying from parched low-elevation creosote flats up to pines and firs in the higher terrain. This winter was much warmer and drier than normal. The average temperature at the Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport was 60.2°F, 3.0°F above the 30-year average. Unlike last winter, there were no hard freezes—in fact the temperature never fell below 36°F. Precipitation totaled just 0.39 inches, 2.32 inches below normal. The rainfall occurred on 19-20 Dec (US Dept. of Commerce, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Weather Service). Six CBCs were conducted wholly or partly in the region: Carefree, Gila River, Hassayampa River, Phoenix-Tres Rios, Salt-Verde Rivers, and Superior. A record 79 observers turned out for the annual Greater Phoenix Area Waterbird Census, tallying 56 species and 62,816 individuals, and AZG&F completed waterbird surveys on Apache, Bartlett, and Saguaro lakes. Highlights from these various annual events are included in this report.

Black-bellied Whistling-Duck numbers were up compared to those of the past few years. Twelve were seen on the Phoenix-Tres Rios CBC 20 Dec (fide DPo). Two to five were present at TRW 22 Dec – 16 Feb (LH et al.), followed by seven birds 23 Feb (JJ et al.). An impressive 38 birds visited the Wildlife World Zoo & Aquarium, Litchfield Park 4 Jan (BNo), and two were reported from the Arlington Valley 22 Feb (B. Cirillo, m. ob.). An unusually large flock of 58 Greater White-fronted Geese flew over Sun City 3 Feb (ph. R. and A. Dupilka). Also sighted were three individuals at GWR 11 Dec (D. Holsinger et al.), one at Surprise Community Park 12-13 Jan (ph. LMg et al.), and another there 17 Feb (M. Dexheimer). Three individuals were noted on the GPW 18 Jan—one each in Peoria, Phoenix, and Surprise (fide TC), three at the Rousseau Sod Farm, Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community 25-26 Jan (L. Marcus, P. Bofferding et al.), and one at Encanto Park, Phoenix 2 Feb (LBt). Several Cackling Geese were reported this winter. An (Aleutian) bird was present at the Thunderbird Conservation Park, Glendale 17-22 Jan (ph. TDeB, G. Butcher, m. ob.), and at the adjoining Arrowhead Ranch, Glendale 22 Jan – 4 Feb (ph. TDeB, m. ob.). This rare subspecies does not appear on the official state list. A (Richardson’s) bird was detected at GWR 10 Dec (BWal et al.), and another at Arrowhead Ranch, Glendale 24 Jan – 4 Feb (ph. ACo, LHal et al.). Several individuals were identified at the species level only. Two birds were seen at GWR 2 Jan, with one remaining through 9 Feb (ph. TMa, m. ob.), and two were at McCormick Ranch, Scottsdale 4 Jan (ph. LH et al.). This species is considered to be a rare but regular winter visitor to Arizona, although identification challenges make its true status uncertain. Casual in winter, a Tundra Swan was discovered above the Granite Reef Recreation Site 12 Dec (L. Story).

Several Eurasian Wigeons wintered in the Valley. One to two were present at Arrowhead Ranch, Glendale 22 Dec – 11 Feb, often at the Legend Springs Elementary School as was the case last winter (DKi, m. ob.); three were seen 23 Jan (ph. JHo). One was observed at Granada Park, Phoenix 9 Jan (fide LHal). Four individuals were tallied on the GPW 18 Jan, including the three noted above in Glendale and one in San Tan Valley (fide TC), which was a likely returning bird from the previous winter at the Encanterra Country Club, Queen Creek in Pinal Co. (ph. ErH). A large number of American Wigeons led all aquatic bird tallies on the GPW with a record high of 19,676 individuals (fide TC). An attractive Cinnamon x Green-winged Teal hybrid was present at GWR 8 Dec – 10 Jan (ph. S. Christopher et al.). Reports of Greater Scaup, a rare winter visitor away from the Lower Colorado R., were up when compared with the past few years. One was found at Kiwanis Community Park, Tempe 8 Dec (MWeb), one at Veterans Oasis Park, Chandler 15 Dec – 24 Jan (ph. PMo, m. ob.), four at GWR 17 Dec (J. Kirk), one at Anthem Community Park 19 Dec (LMg), and another along the Buckeye Canal, Goodyear 20 Dec (CSd et al.). An individual was seen at Papago Park, Phoenix 29 Dec (LH), and two birds were there 3 Feb (ph. TMa). The January reports included one in Mesa on the GPW 18 Jan (fide TC), one at the Gila Bend sewage ponds 26 Jan (CMc), and another at the Thunderbird Conservation Park, Glendale the same day (B. Buck et al.). Two Surf Scoters, accidental in winter, were found on the Saguaro L. waterbird survey 17 Jan (TC, BBg). Six White-winged Scoters were documented at L. Pleasant 12-13 Jan, the highest count for the state in this century (ph. KR et al.); three individuals remained to 13 Feb (m. ob.). This species is a rare winter visitant, normally only seen singly. A Long-tailed Duck was discovered at GRP 24 Dec (ph. DPt et al.), a first for this location. This rare winter visitor is usually seen only a few times annually in Arizona.

An exceptional concentration of 2148 Common Mergansers was witnessed on Arrowhead L. at the Thunderbird Conservation Park, Glendale 16 Dec (ph. ACo). Good numbers of the rare Red-breasted Merganser were recorded, including a pair along the Verde R., Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation 14 Dec (TC et al.),with these and another individual remaining for the Salt-Verde Rivers CBC 16 Dec (fide KR), one to four at the Thunderbird Conservation Park, Glendale 16-18 Dec (JHo, m. ob.), five in Goodyear 20 Dec (CSd et al.), and one at McCormick Ranch, Scottsdale 22 Dec – 24 Jan (ph. BIs et al.). One was seen near Buckeye 28-30 Dec (TC, BGro), one was at the Desert Springs Golf Club, Surprise 8 Jan (MWeb), and two were on the Apache L. waterbird survey 10 Jan (TC, BBg, D. McGehee).

A Common Loon was found at Estrella Mtn. Ranch, Goodyear 2 Dec (B. Wesley), another on the Saguaro L. waterbird survey 17 Jan (TC, BBg), two on the Bartlett L. waterbird survey 21 Jan (ph. BBg, T. Willard), one at TTL 1 Feb (LBt), and one at GWR 9 Feb (C. Burns). This species is considered to be rare in winter in Arizona away from the larger Lower Colorado R. reservoirs. Horned Grebes were reported from several locations. An individual was at Veterans Oasis Park, Chandler 12-22 Dec (DC, m. ob.). One to three birds were at TTL 13 Dec – 2 Feb, with one remaining to 23 Feb (JMcK, m. ob.), and another frequented L. Pleasant 27 Dec – 17 Jan (JHo et al.). An impressive count of nine were seen on the Apache L. waterbird survey 10 Jan (TC, BBg, D. McGehee), two in Tempe on the GPW 18 Jan (fide TC), and two at Bartlett L., Tonto NF 1 Feb (ph. TMa). A Red-necked Grebe, casual in the region, was at Apache L. 10 Jan (ph. TC). Continuing Brown Pelicans wintered at TTL and TRW. One to two were present at TTL 1 Dec+ (MWeb, m. ob.), except that three birds were noted 24 Feb (NW et al.). Meantime, one to three individuals had settled in at TRW 5 Dec+ (JRz, m. ob.), with four birds present 24 Dec (J. Legander). The five birds counted in Tempe and Phoenix on the GPW 18 Jan (fide TC) likely came from these two places. A Roseate Spoonbill, casual across the southern portions of the state in the summer and early fall, was at TRW at the  unusual date of 15-17 Dec (TC et al.).

Black Vultures continue to spread into the East Valley, with most sightings coming from south of the Red Mountain Freeway (AZ 202). Reports from the Lower Salt R. include two at the Coon Bluff Recreation Site 28 Jan (C. Huizinga) and one to six at the Granite Reef Recreation Site 11-22 Feb (NB, m. ob.). Individual White-tailed Kites, rare and local in winter, were reported from Arlington 6 Dec – 5 Jan (MHe, m. ob.), LRP 10 Dec (BMe), and the Ak-Chin Indian Community 17 Dec (JKe et al.). A rare Northern Goshawk appeared at BTA 1 Dec (ph. B. Williamson, m. ob.). Red-shouldered Hawks were found in three areas away from the HRP. Individuals were seen at the Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Area, Phoenix 7 Dec – 1 Jan (TC, m. ob.), TRW 4 Feb (W. Kopp et al.), and the Arlington Valley 18 Feb (TJ, T. Reed et al.). A Broad-winged Hawk, accidental in Arizona during the winter, was at TRW 22-24 Jan (ph., v.r. JRz et al.). This adult bird appeared to be one of the more unusual “pale-bellied” morphs. A few Zone-tailed Hawks have wintered in the region over the past few years. Several individuals were reported this season, mainly in the e. Valley, making it difficult to determine how many individuals were actually involved. One was in a Phoenix neighborhood 15 Dec (TGa), Veterans Oasis Park, Chandler 19-24 Dec (ph. TMa, m. ob.), a Mesa neighborhood 26 Dec (JJu et al.), Superstition Springs Golf Club, Gilbert 29 Dec (L. Story), GWR 17 Jan – 3 Feb (ph. BaMc, B. Henning, m. ob.), Sun Lakes 18 Jan (D. Maas et al.), and McCormick Ranch, Scottsdale 3-11 Feb (V. Lewis). A  rare, light morph (Harlan’s) Red-tailed Hawk returned again to the Arlington area; it was seen in Arlington 6 Dec-2 Feb (MHe, m. ob.). Typical dark-morph (Harlan’s) individuals were found on the Phoenix-Tres Rios CBC 20 Dec (fide DPo) and the Gila River CBC 30 Dec (fide TC).

Some 13,808 American Coots were counted on the GPW 18 Jan, the second most abundant species seen that day (fide TC). Willets are seldom reported in winter, so the 62 individuals well described on the Gila River CBC 30 Dec (CFi, BMc) were surprising. Lesser Yellowlegs, typically a rare winter visitor, was widely reported this season. A continuing bird was present at GRP 1-4 Dec (MHe, m. ob.) – one to two were there 18 Jan+ (LBt, m. ob.), except for 16 Feb when three were present (MHe) and 24 Feb when four were noted (SHo et al.). One was reported at the Tuscany Falls Golf Club, Goodyear 4 Dec (S. Chisholm), and two in the Palo Verde area 28-30 Dec (ph. DSt, m. ob), with a single there 2 Feb (CK et al.) and one to two at GWR 29 Dec-18 Jan (MNe et al.). Possibly early migrants, one was reported at the Coon Bluff Recreation Site 14 Feb (D. Wilkins et al.) and four at the Phon D. Sutton Recreation Site 20 Feb (Z. Sutton). An unusual concentration of 100 Dunlin occurred at TRW 16 Feb (ph. J. Maberry et al.). Four Western Sandpipers, rare winter visitors across the southern part of the state, continued at GRP 1 Dec (MHe). One to two birds were there 22 Dec+ (ph. LH, m. ob.), except for three on 16 Feb (MHe). Some 50 birds were discovered in Paloma 11 Dec (BGro), part of an assemblage of 3000+ shorebirds and pipits in a tilled, flooded field. One to two were found at GWR 5 Jan – 4 Feb (BMz, m. ob.), and one at LRP 5-8 Feb (SHo, m. ob.).

A first winter Black-legged Kittiwake appeared at TTL 13 Dec (MOc, ph. JMcK et al.). Almost exclusively seen on open salt water, this is a casual late fall and early winter transient in Arizona. Sadly, the bird was found dead the following morning. Accidental in winter in the region, a Franklin’s Gull and a Mew Gull (ph. ErH) were found at L. Pleasant 17 Jan (ErH, CSm). The former gull was previously first found on the Yavapai Co. section of the lake. With only two accepted records, and three pending review for the state, a Lesser Black-backed Gull at Arrowhead L., Glendale 15-18 Dec was an exceptional find (ph. J. Neely, m. ob.).

Away from BTA, where this species is resident, a Broad-billed Hummingbird visited a Chandler yard in early December and again 26 Jan (ph. M. VanWallene). This was an exceptional winter for woodpeckers across the region. Several Lewis’s Woodpeckers were reported from the Valley, including one in the heart of Phoenix. This continuing urbanite frequented the Wesley Bolin Memorial Plaza and adjacent State Capitol grounds 9 Dec – 7 Feb (M. Ray, m. ob.). Also seen in Phoenix were single birds at the Phoenix Country Club 18 Jan (MWeb et al.) and Encanto Park 29 Jan+ (ph. J. Hintermister, m. ob.). One to two individuals wintered at the Desert Springs Golf Club, Surprise 13 Dec – 17 Feb (MOc, m. ob.), with the second bird appearing 17 Jan (TDeB, G. Butcher). One was reported from a Glendale neighborhood 8 Dec (GKa et al.) – where two were found the previous month, one from a Peoria church campus 9 Feb (TDeB), and another from the Tempe Sports Complex 9 Feb (S. DeMarais). An Acorn Woodpecker, another irregular winter visitor to the lowlands, continued at the Cotton Business Center, Phoenix 3-17 Dec (ph. ACo). One was seen on the Phoenix-Tres Rios CBC 20 Dec (fide DPo), and another at TTL 3 Feb (ph. TMa). Also continuing were two individuals on the Arizona State University Main Campus, Tempe 12 Feb (J. Taylor). Two individuals were spotted in a Phoenix yard 16 Feb (W. Schnelker et al.), and single birds were seen at Lone Mtn., Scottsdale 17 Feb (P. Oves et al.), Estrella Mtn. Ranch, Goodyear 25 Feb (CSd), and BTA 28 Feb (LHal); two individuals were present at the Goodyear site last winter.

One Williamson’s Sapsucker, a rare winter visitor, was at BTA 15 Dec (ph. GKa et al.) and still present there for the Superior CBC 26 Dec (fide CD). Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers have proven to be rare but increasingly detected winter visitors, and six were reported this season. A continuing, reliable male was present at BTA 5 Dec – 27 Feb (ph. J. Ripley, m. ob.); this is probably a returning bird from last winter. Two individuals were discovered along the Verde R., Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation 14-16 Dec (TC, ph. TLew et al.), one (possibly returning) at TRW 15 Dec – 15 Jan (TC et al.), one at the Bagley Flat picnic area, Saguaro L. 17 Jan (TC), and another at the Foxtail/Sheeps Crossing Recreation Sites 19 Jan (B. Buck, S. Wray). Found at a lower than expected elevation, a Hairy Woodpecker was counted on the Superior CBC 26 Dec (fide CD). Another male Hairy Woodpecker apparently wintered successfully between Needle Rock and Box Bar along the lower Verde R. having been observed from 25 Nov (CBab) and then again 8 Mar in this area (ph. TC). A rare (Yellow-shafted) Northern Flicker was present at the Needle Rock Recreation Area, Tonto NF 1 Dec (ph. BIs). A wandering Crested Caracara, casual in the region, was discovered in Arlington Valley 30 Dec for the Gila River CBC (ph. TSu et al.).

A Hammond’s Flycatcher, rarely seen in winter, remained at the Camp Creek Recreation Residence Tract (aka “Lower Camp Creek”), Tonto NF 25 Dec – 19 Jan (ph. BIs et al.). Three rare Dusky Flycatchers were reported, one each along the Verde R., Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation 14 Dec (BIs), Rackensack Canyon, Tonto NF 17 Dec (BWal et al.), and the Seven Springs Recreation Area, Tonto NF 2 Jan (ph. BIs et al.). Completing the Empidonax group was a Western-type Flycatcher, a casual visitor, at TRW 15 Dec (TC et al.), another on the Salt-Verde Rivers CBC 16 Dec (fide KR), and the last at HRP 22 Dec (CFi et al.). Rare but regular winter visitors, an Eastern Phoebe was seen at the Needle Rock Recreation Area, Tonto NF 1 Dec (ph. BIs); this is likely a continuing bird from early November. One was also present along the Verde R., Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation 14 Dec (ph. JJ et al.) for the third year, and another was discovered in another section of the Salt-Verde Rivers CBC 16 Dec (fide KR). Individuals were also found located at the Base and Meridian WA, Avondale 15 Dec – 24 Jan (ph.TC, ph. JJ et al., and ph. CSd) and another section of the Phoenix-Tres Rios CBC 20 Dec (fide DPo).

The late Bell’s Vireo seen at BTA 7 Dec (ph. MWeb) may have been attempting to winter, whereas the one to two birds that were there 15 Feb+ (RDi, ALe, m. ob.) were likely early arrivals. Earlier still were the individuals at the Granite Reef Recreation Site 11 Feb (NB et al.) and MCW 11 Feb (D. Wahl, fide ErH). Gray Vireo sightings this season were limited to the Telegraph Pass Trail in South Mountain Park, Phoenix. Single bird reports spanned the period 5 Dec – 3 Feb (N. Bonomo, m. ob.), with two birds spotted 19 Dec (ph. I. Sanchez). Two years ago, an AZFO survey detected wintering birds there and in two other Maricopa Co. mountain ranges. This species went unreported in the region last winter. Two Western Scrub-Jays were counted on the Hassayampa River CBC 22 Dec (fide VM), and one on the Gila River CBC 30 Dec (TC). Four to five American Crows, typically casual winter residents in the region, were seen in the pecan groves in the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation 14-16 Dec (BIs et al.), where small numbers have wintered in recent years.

Several northbound Violet-green Swallows appeared in February, the earliest a single bird at BTA 1 Feb (TC, m. ob.). Barn Swallow is a rare and irregular wintering species in the region, so of note were an individual at GWR 14 Dec and two there 30 Dec (D. Despain et al.). Six individuals were observed on the Phoenix-Tres Rios CBC 20 Dec (fide DPo). Early arriving spring migrants included single birds on the Consolidated Canal, Chandler 15 Feb (L. Marks) and at GWR 27 Feb+ (E. Vokoun et al.). Mountain Chickadees, absent across the region since winter 2003-2004 according to eBird, staged an impressive irruption this season. Low elevation reports (below 2500 feet) included one to two birds (one continuing) at BTA 1 Dec – 17 Feb (B. Williamson, m. ob.), two along the Verde R., Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation 16 Dec (TLew et al.), one to two at the Granite Reef Recreation Site 30 Dec – 1 Jan (TLo, m. ob.), one at HRP 5 Jan – 19 Feb (ph. L. Ellis, m. ob.) and two there 20 Feb (ph. SHo), two to three at the Coon Bluff Recreation Site 12-24 Jan (ph. BMz et al.), and one at Mesquite Wash, Tonto NF 28 Feb (ph. ErH). Two to seven individuals were reported on each of the four CBCs north and east of the Valley. Bridled Titmouse, another irregular winter visitor to the lowlands, was reported from several locations this season. Three individuals were reported along the Verde R., Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation 16 Dec (TLew et al.), two at HRP 4 Jan (P. Smolen et al.), one to three at HRP 2-15 Feb (ALe, m. ob.), and three at BTA 28 Feb (LHal). Two Bushtits made a surprise visit to the Buckeye area 8 Feb (DShe et al.). Two Red-breasted Nuthatches returned to Valley sites, one to a Phoenix yard 18 Dec (A. Scheuer) and the other to Comanche Park, Scottsdale 24 Feb (HBe). The only other lowland report of this species was an individual at the Salt River Fields, Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community 31 Jan (R. Cahalan), about one half mile east of Comanche Park. Brown Creeper, normally a rare visitor to low- and mid-elevation habitats, was reported from at least 15 low-elevation sites alone. The earliest report came in from the Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Area, Phoenix, where one was seen 8 Dec (JJ). The latest sighting was of two individuals at Mesquite Wash, Tonto NF 28 Feb (ph. ErH).

Pacific Wren reports were up when compared with the past three years, with sightings of single birds at the Camp Creek Recreation Residence Tract, Tonto NF 2 Jan (JJ et al.), MCW 10 Jan (CSm), HRP 18 Jan-19 Feb (TMa, C. Gutmann), and GWR 24 Feb (C. VanBoening). Golden-crowned Kinglets are rare and irregular in the lowlands in winter, but one was spotted at L. Pleasant 5 Dec (ph. SHo, J. Hosmer), three at HRP 22 Dec (MEv, A. Evans), and another at the Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Area, Phoenix 5 Jan (G. Stagner). Twelve Mountain Bluebirds were found at L. Saint Clair 19 Dec (DJ) and two at the Coon Bluff Recreation Site 7 Feb (BaMc et al.). Two rare Rufous-backed Robins were observed, one in a Chandler yard 8 Dec (ph. T. Crews et al.) and the second at HRP 19 Feb (MWeb). A Varied Thrush, casual in the region, was present at BTA 2-19 Dec (ES, m. ob.). Rare in winter across Arizona, a Gray Catbird was spotted at the Base and Meridian WA, Avondale 19 Jan+ (ph. MHe, JJ). Also rare winter visitors, a Brown Thrasher was seen at HRP 22 Dec (MEv, A. Evans) and an Olive Warbler along the Paradise Trail, Superstition Mtns., Tonto NF 23 Feb (DJ). Although likely annual, Chestnut-collared Longspurs are casually reported in the region during the winter, so of note were eight individuals on the Rousseau Sod Farm, Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community 26 Jan (ALe).

The Ovenbird that lingered at MCW into November apparently successfully overwintered as it was noted at the same location 15 Mar (TC). Several rare but regular warbler species were reported this winter. One to two Black-and-white Warblers overwintered at GWR 1 Dec+ (DKi, m. ob.). One lingered at the Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Area, Phoenix 7 Dec – 1 Jan (TC, m. ob.), two were seen along the Verde R., Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation 14-16 Dec (TC et al.), one was at the Butcher Jones Recreation Site 13 Jan (ph. TMa), one was reported from HRP 18 Jan (ph. TMa), and another was in a Gilbert neighborhood 21 Feb (ph. B. Slater). A continuing American Redstart wintered at TRW 6 Dec – 27 Feb (ph. RBow, m. ob.); two were there 23 Feb (ph. JJ et al.). Single birds were noted on the Salt-Verde Rivers CBC 16 Dec (fide KR), at McCormick Ranch, Scottsdale 29 Dec – 28 Jan (MWeb, m. ob.), and the Granite Reef Recreation Site 2 Jan (JTa). Two Northern Parulas were reported, one from McCormick Ranch, Scottsdale 29 Dec – 19 Feb (MWeb, m. ob.) and another from the Base and Meridian WA, Avondale 19 Jan (MHe, JJ et al.). A continuing Yellow Warbler overwintered at GWR 7 Dec – 15 Feb (RBow, m. ob.), and one to three were present at TRW 15 Dec – 18 Jan (TC, m. ob.). One was also found in Arlington 30 Dec (ph. RBow et al.), one at TTL 1 Jan (DT), and one to two along the Buckeye Canal, Buckeye 1 Jan – 2 Feb (ph. CSd). One Chestnut-sided Warbler was detected at the Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Area, Phoenix 2 Dec (A. Jones). A Townsend’s Warbler was found on the Salt-Verde Rivers CBC 16 Dec (fide KR), and two were observed at Paloma Ranch, Gila Bend 23 Feb (TJ et al.). Lastly, a Wilson’s Warbler was discovered on the Gila River CBC 30 Dec (C. Schmidt).

Sagebrush Sparrow is thought to be more common than the similar Bell's Sparrow as a wintering species in the South-Central Region, but additional work is needed to determine the abundance, distribution, and microhabitat preferences of these two similar species with challenging field identification questions. A capture and banding study in early February in the Robbins Butte WA by CMc had some surprising preliminary results, and we look forward to the final report once blood sample analysis results are obtained. One to 15 possible Bell’s Sparrows were reported at Salome Hwy. and Baseline Rd., Buckeye 7 Dec+ (L. Bausher, ph. TDeB, DShe, m. ob.). Three birds that may have been Bell's were reported on the Gila River CBC 30 Dec (C. Wise), two in Wittmann 1 Feb (CSm), and two in Gila Bend 23 Feb (N. Trimmer et al.).

A few (Slate-colored) Fox Sparrows can often be found at middle elevations within the region in winter, but the sighting of 13 individuals at Rackensack Canyon, Tonto NF 12 Dec (TDeB) was exceptional. They are rare and more irregular in the lowlands, so of note were single birds seen in Avondale 17 Feb (ph. MHe) and at BTA 25 Feb+ (ph. BaMc et al.). Three individuals were identified at the species level only, including two at TRW 7 Jan (RBow) and one at GWR 31 Jan – 24 Feb (R. and C. Hargraves et al.). Swamp Sparrows are typically rare and local winter residents. One was reported along the Verde R., Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation 14-16 Dec (JJ, m. ob.), plus another two on the Salt-Verde Rivers CBC 16 Dec (fide KR). Single birds were sighted on the Phoenix-Tres Rios CBC 20 Dec (fide DPo), at Powers Butte WA 30 Dec (TLew et al.), TRW 18 Jan (LBt et al.), Veterans Oasis Park, Chandler 22 Jan (C. VanBoening), and GWR 31 Jan (R. and C. Hargraves). A Golden-crowned Sparrow returned for the third consecutive winter to the Desert Springs Golf Club, Surprise 7 Dec – 22 Feb (ph. MHe, m. ob.), another was detected at the Arlington WA 10 Dec (ph. LH et al.), and a third was near Palo Verde 28 Dec (TC, ph. MV).

Likely a late migrant, a Summer Tanager was observed at BTA 6 Dec (TDeB et al.). A second individual was seen on the Watt Preserve, Town of Cave Creek 2 Jan (J. Rigden, ph. J. Weser), and a third on the State Capitol grounds, Phoenix 3 Jan (JMcK). A Western Tanager was noted on the Superior CBC 26 Dec (fide CD). One Rose-breasted Grosbeak, a casual winter visitor, was discovered at Estrella Mountain Regional Park on the Phoenix-Tres Rios CBC 20 Dec (ph. J. Dockens). Even rarer during the winter, a Black-headed Grosbeak was reported in a Phoenix yard 25 Dec – 2 Jan (A. Scheuer). These tanagers and grosbeaks are casually reported in winter in the region. A Lazuli Bunting was a good find along the Buckeye Canal, Buckeye 20 Jan (ph. CSd). An Orchard Oriole was discovered at the Base and Meridian WA, Avondale 15 Dec – 18 Jan (TC, ph. JJ, MHe), and another returned to Sun City Grand, Surprise 4 Feb (MWeb). This is a casual transient in Arizona, with few winter records. Accidental in the region in winter, a Scott’s Oriole was reported on the Superior CBC 26 Dec (fide CD). One to six Lawrence’s Goldfinches, an irruptive species, were reported from Friendship Park, Avondale 8 Dec – 11 Jan (ph. MHe et al.), 25 at TRW 16 Feb (J. Maberry et al.), and six in a Chandler yard the same day (S. Yost).

 

 

 

Gila

 

Compiled by Brian Ison

 

Abbreviations: AZG&F Roosevelt L. Aquatic Bird Survey (Aquatic Survey), Mogollon Rim (Rim), Canyon Cr. Fish Hatchery (CCFH)

Sparse rainfall, few winter storms, and generally mild temperatures was the pattern across the region this season, contributing to a high number of bird reports and several first-known winter records. Also, an excellent juniper cone crop helped to attract many fruit-eating birds, especially thrush species such as Mountain Bluebirds, which are not normally seen in large flocks below the Rim. This bounty and mild weather contributed to 18 species high-counts on the Payson CBC 4 Jan, four tied high-counts, and three new species reported. Other rare finds were noted on the AZG&F Roosevelt L. Aquatic Bird Survey 13 Jan, where an above-average 7577 individuals of 29 species were counted, most notably two Long-tailed Ducks. San Carlos L. dropped to about 12% capacity by the end of the season, and Roosevelt L. remained about half full.

Irregular winter visitors, two Greater White-fronted Geese were good finds on the Aquatic Survey 13 Jan (TC et al.). Uncommon or possibly rare in Gila Co., four Snow Geese were seen at Roosevelt L. 14 Dec (C. Vojta), two were there during the Aquatic Survey 13 Jan (TC et al.), and a single was found at the San Carlos sewage ponds 21 Jan (EDu). An estimated 225 Canada Geese was a high number spotted at the Payson Country Club 12 Dec (LL). A high count of 42 Canvasbacks, an uncommon visitor, was recorded on the Payson CBC 4 Jan (m. ob.). A large group of 150 Lesser Scaup was counted at San Carlos L. 8 Jan (EDu). Possibly a first-ever documented record in Gila Co., two Long-tailed Ducks were exceptional finds on the Aquatic Survey 13 Jan (ph. TC et al.). A high of 24 Bufflehead was noted at the San Carlos sewage ponds 21 Jan (EDu). A high count of 14 Hooded Mergansers was tallied on the Payson CBC 4 Jan (m. ob.).

Rarely reported in the region during the winter, two Common Loons were found at Roosevelt L. during the Aquatic Survey 13 Jan (TC et al.), and a high count of 22 Eared Grebes, not usually found on the survey, was also noteworthy in the Salt River arm of the reservoir (BBu et al.). Thirteen Bald Eagles, including four adults and nine juveniles were good finds during the Aquatic Survey 13 Jan (m. ob.), and five were detected on the Payson CBC 4 Jan (m. ob.). Following last year’s first known winter record for Zone-tailed Hawk in the region, two more were found this winter; one spotted in Gisela 24 Dec (ph. BWal), and a flyover seen in Payson 18 Jan (SD). Rare or uncommon, a Ferruginous Hawk was sighted at Canyon Day west of White R. on White Mountain Apache Tribal Lands 16 Feb (B. Stegman). Casual in winter, a single Rough-legged Hawk was detected at the northwest end of Roosevelt L. 14 Dec (C. Vojta). It was a good winter for Golden Eagle sightings in the county. Rare in the region, one was detected at the E. Verde R. and AZ 87 junction on the Payson CBC 4 Jan (D. Brown), and another was also seen on the CBC along Crackerjack Rd just south of Pine (DHal). A single Golden Eagle was seen soaring at Gold Cr. south of Payson 16 Feb (BIs); and five, including three juveniles, were seen in close proximity above the Rim on the Gila/Coconino Co. line during the Payson CBC (ph. GKa, BIs).

Accidental in winter, a single imm. Bonaparte’s Gull was at Talkalai L. on San Carlos Apache tribal lands 12 Dec (JC). Casual in the winter, a first-winter Herring Gull was noted at Roosevelt L. during the Aquatic Survey 13 Jan (BB et al.). Sightings of White-winged Doves have been increasing outside of the breeding season in the region lately, and this winter, two casual White-winged Doves were seen at San Carlos L. 8 Jan (EDu), possibly two of the four seen 10 Nov on the AZFO San Carlos L. Survey. Rare and local in Gila Co., three Inca Doves were reported in the Tonto Basin 17 Feb where they are resident in small numbers (M. Deering). A rare find on the Payson CBC 4 Jan included two Northern Saw-Whet Owls calling at the same time at the Tonto Natural Bridge S.P. (R. Heffernon, B. Malmberg). Rare winter visitors, three Williamson’s Sapsuckers were detected on the Payson CBC 4 Jan: two females along the Control Rd. just below the Rim (BIs, GKa), and one in Payson (KA, L. Lorenz). Rare and local in the region, typically in Rim drainages, a Downy Woodpecker was spotted at a Pine cabin 1 Feb (BIs), and a male was found at the CCFH 23 Feb (ErH). A single Merlin was a rare find in Star Valley on the Payson CBC 4 Jan (T. Conlin et al.). Possibly a first known winter record for Gila Co., but reported nearby in Maricopa Co. at Sunflower recently, a Gray Flycatcher was found at Gold Cr. south of Rye 16 Feb (BIs). Accidental in the Gila region in winter, a Cassin’s Kingbird was a great find at the Tonto Natural Bridge S.P. during the Payson CBC 4 Jan (R. Heffernon, B. Malmberg et al.). Casual wanderers in the region, three Pinyon Jays were found at Gold Cr. 5 Feb (DHal). Corvid numbers were unusually high this winter in the region. For example, a record high count of 205 American Crows was tallied on the Payson CBC (m. ob.), easily beating the previous high of 33. A pair of Bushtits was seen building a nest at the CCFH at the early date of 23 Feb (ErH).

Rare and local in Gila Co., usually found in shady riparian areas, Pacific Wrens were reported this winter in areas where they have been found in the past. The Payson CBC observed one Pacific Wren along the E. Verde R. where it crosses AZ 87 Jan 4 (DHal, D. Brown); one was detected by its call note in Pine Cr. Canyon 2 Feb (BIs); and two were noted at the CCFH 23 Feb (ErH). Rare winter visitors in the region, a possible nesting pair of American Dippers at CCFH 23 Feb (ErH) was noteworthy, especially since the only recent sightings have been of single birds at the Tonto Cr. Fish Hatchery east of Payson. Golden-crowned Kinglets are irregular rare winter visitors in the Gila region, typically joining mixed-species flocks. This winter there were three reports including one just below the Rim on the Payson CBC 4 Jan (BIs, GKa); four in Pine Cr. Canyon 2 Feb (BIs); and six at the CCFH 23 Feb (ErH). A few Eastern Bluebirds have been well documented this season in the central and northern parts of Arizona, far away from their typical range in the southeastern part of the state. This winter, a lone Eastern Bluebird likely of the brighter, nominate eastern race was found on the Payson CBC in the Doll Baby Ranch area west of Payson. It may be the first ever reported in Gila Co. (GD). Largely due to the juniper cone windfall this winter, thrush numbers were higher than in recent years. For example, the Payson CBC hosted a high of 391 Western Bluebirds and 95 irregular Mountain Bluebirds (m. ob.), and 16 Mountain Bluebirds were seen at Gold Cr. 16 Feb (BIs). Also on the Payson CBC, 54 Townsend’s Solitaires (tied high count), 19 Hermits Thrushes (high count), and 792 American Robins (high count) were tallied. Rare irregular visitors, five Sage Thrashers were noted on the Payson CBC (high count), six were found at Oxbow just south of Payson 14 Feb (DHal), and a single was spotted at Gold Cr. 16 Feb (BIs).

Rarely reported in areas mainly just below the Rim in n. Gila Co., Olive Warbler sightings have increased in recent winters, probably due to the milder climate. Easily surpassing the eight seen last winter in the region, 15 Olive Warblers were reported this season: two in Pine Cr. Canyon 2 Feb (BIs); three southwest of Christopher Cr. 14 Feb; five in Payson 15 Feb; and five near Pine 17 Feb (all DHal). Warm, dry weather had some birds already singing in mid-February in the region, including two Rufous-crowned Sparrows and a single Black-chinned Sparrow at Gold Cr. 16 Feb (BIs). Rare winter visitors, a first-winter or tan-striped race White-throated Sparrow was detected at Jones Water CG northeast of Globe 19 Jan (ErH), and another was seen at Gold Cr. 16 Feb (ph. BIs). Probably a first-ever winter record in the region, a male Bullock’s Oriole was at the northwest end of Roosevelt L. 14 Dec (C. Vojta). Irregular and irruptive winter visitors, many Evening Grosbeaks made incursions into the area this season. A flock of 12 was seen near AZ 60/77 on San Carlos Apache tribal lands 18 Dec (OJ); 20 were noted in Pine Cr. Canyon 2 Feb (BIs); and at least eight were seen intermittently at a feeder in the E. Verde Estates north of Payson 23 Feb+ (DHal).

 

Southeast

 

Compiled by Mark Stevenson

Abbreviations: Lake Cochise, Willcox (L. Cochise), Sweetwater Wetlands, Tucson (Sweetwater), Whitewater Draw WA (Whitewater)

The National Weather Service Tucson Office reported that Tucson experienced its warmest winter on record. There were only two days reaching 32°F or less, tying the lowest number. It was the 15th driest winter on record (0.84″vs. an average of 2.73″ of rain) and there were 44 consecutive days without rain. After many decades as a productive birding location, Tucson’s Pima County Roger Road Wastewater Reclamation Facility was shut down in January. The replacement facility produces much higher quality reclaimed water but the more modern treatment method means no open water for birds. Water delivery to Sweetwater Wetlands was interrupted from January on. The Green Valley WRF was closed for construction during the season. Whitewater Draw WA had adequate water for cranes. The Rio Rico Drive ponds were emptied and re-dug and the fields converted to barley cultivation after the property changed ownership. The Santa Cruz R. downstream from Nogales continued to see lower surface flows than in the past.

A “rare” wintering species, up to two Greater White-fronted Geese continued at Whitewater from fall through 8 Dec (m. ob.). Three were reported there 20 Dec-16 Feb (EW, m. ob.). Another three continued at Arthur Pack GC through 14 Feb (JWill, m. ob.). One was along Tweedy Rd. in the Santa Cruz Flats 29 Dec-12 Jan (DSt). Two at Faria Dairy in Kansas Settlement 16-23 Feb (RCa) might have come from Whitewater. Lastly, one was in Saint David 21 Feb+ (ph. ARi). These represent an above-average showing for this species in the region. Snow and Ross’s Geese are relatively rare away from the Sulphur Springs Valley. Nine Snow Geese continued in the Santa Cruz Flats through 3 Dec (m. ob.). The small Canada Goose that had resided at Tucson’s Kennedy Park since 8 Oct 2010 was last seen 25 Dec (JH, m. ob.), sparking speculation about an unnatural end for the bird. Otherwise, Canada Goose remained a rare winter visitor with reports comprising one at Kino Springs 13-14 Dec (SH), five at Mammoth STP 18 Dec (DJ), and one there 25 Feb-5 Mar (DJ), numbers varying from one to 12 at Whitewater 7 Jan-25 Mar (m. ob.), and migrant flocks of 50 over Willcox 24 Jan (J. Swetsland) and 110 over Salero Ranch 8 Feb (C. Smith, SC). No Tundra Swans were reported. The Black Scoter found in fall at Randolph Park, Tucson was last seen 1 Jan (MSt). The only Red-breasted Mergansers reported this season were singles in ne. Tucson 4-11 Dec (BN, ph. PSu), Green Valley 28 Dec (JG), and Roper Lake SP 12-14 Jan (JC).

Slightly odd were 10 Wild Turkeys seen intermittently along the Santa Cruz R. near Tubac, reported 10 Jan (D. Griffin). The only loon reported this season was a Common Loon at Patagonia Lake SP 6-11 Dec (DBr). A few Horned Grebes were reported (without details), with singles at Sunsites STP 6 Dec (PSa et al.) and Ajo STP 12 Dec (D. Hall). Neotropic Cormorants mostly withdraw from the region in late fall, returning later in winter. Those found away from Patagonia L. included singles at Sierra Vista STP 8 Dec (RBe) and Columbus Park, Tucson 13 Dec (ph. PG). At Tucson, numbers began to increase 4 Jan when three were at Columbus Park (CTh), increasing to 38 there by 4 Feb (m. ob.). One strayed to Saint David 5 Feb (ph. ARi). Double-crested Cormorants retained their position as the minority cormorant with credible reports of no more than two at a time in the Tucson area. (eBird data from Patagonia L. are difficult to interpret with some suggestion that some observers are assigning cormorants there to the species that they expect to occur there rather than carefully identifying the birds present; no doubt some observers are making careful identifications but the mix of styles makes drawing any inferences from the data a potentially misleading undertaking. Observers are encouraged to use the “cormorant sp.” taxon for any cormorant in the region that they don’t actually identify.) An American White Pelican in the Avra Valley 14 Dec (ph. JWill) was a first for the CBC. Another was at Paradise L. in Arizona City 9 Jan+ (M. Emmans, B. Cirillo, m. ob.), whereas seven at L. Cochise 4 Feb (DBr) were casual. The only American Bittern reported was at Roper Lake SP 14 Jan (JC). Snowy Egret is quite rare in the region after December, so these were notable: one at Patagonia L. 1-2 Jan (DSt), one at Arizona City 10 Jan (DJ), and one at Sweetwater 26 Jan (MPo, MSt). A Yellow-crowned Night-heron reported from Patagonia along Blue Haven Rd. north of Salero Rd. 12 Feb (D. Sutherland) was not relocated. If accepted, this would be the first winter record for the region and perhaps the state.

The known Black Vulture roost at Picacho Res. was counted 4 Dec (DSt) when 115 lifted off. (Totals of 100+ have been noted in the past.) The only place in Cochise Co. where these vultures are expected is in and around Douglas; the roost there swelled to a high of 65 on 24 Dec (RWe, RAR). Sixty plus were roosting south of the feed lot west of Red Rock 22 Jan+ (MSt. MPo). Single Turkey Vultures, likely early migrants in areas where they are not known to winter, were reported from lower Florida Canyon 24 Jan (SC et al.), Continental 25 Jan (LHal), north of Tombstone 27 Jan (LHal), Reid Park, Tucson 11 Feb (PSu), in ne. Tucson 20 Feb (R. Meredith), and along the Santa Cruz R. in Marana 24 Feb (ACo). It has become expected for one or a few Osprey to be in the area in winter, particularly around Tucson. Singles (or just one?) were reported around Tucson 15 Nov-31 Jan (m. ob.) and again 27 Feb-3 Mar (SGo). Elsewhere, one was at Sonoita Creek State Natural Area 14 Dec (ASc) and one was along the Santa Cruz R. near Tubac 14 Jan (JH). Reports of White-tailed Kites came from the San Rafael Valley, Elgin Rd. near Sonoita, and Red Rock (m. ob.). Bald Eagles found away from more typical areas included singles in Redington Pass 6 Feb (CG) and near Red Rock feed lot through 24 Jan (m. ob.). At the hawk migration hub along the Santa Cruz R. at Ron Morriss Park at Tubac the first Common Black-Hawk was noted 26 Feb (PC), five days after the first one was noted at Page Springs in Yavapai Co. Reports of Red-shouldered Hawks continued in above-average numbers. An immature bird was along the Santa Cruz R., Marana 10-18 Dec (DSt), one was along Rillito R. near Craycroft Rd 13 Dec (F. Heath), and an immature bird was along Tanque Verde Wash near Wentworth Rd., Tucson 24 Dec-25 Jan (ph. PSu). The first Gray Hawk of spring was reported from the Patagonia-Sonoita Creek Preserve 13 Feb (M. Killeen) when casual. A juv. Zone-tailed Hawk was late along the San Pedro R. at Escapule Wash 1 Dec (JSab) and one wandered the Sierra Vista area 26 Dec-11 Jan (SW, TWo; ph. DBe). The first migrant was noted at Tubac 27 Feb (PC), when casual. Rough-legged Hawks were more numerous than usual. Singles were near Elgin 2 Dec-3 Feb (MB), along Central Highway near Double Adobe 3 Dec (RBe), in the San Rafael Valley 12-27 Dec (C. Lund, B. Roderer, ph. R. Woods); two were around Whitewater 17-27 Jan (RF); and one was along Busenbark Rd at Kansas Settlement 18 Jan (SO). The annual Sandhill Crane survey tallied 26,796 cranes, including 22,577 at Whitewater 8 Jan (fide HHa). This was a lower number than for the last few years: 2013 (29,633), 2011 (29,962), 2010 (40,499), 2009 (28,814).

The only Mountain Plovers reported in the region were in the Santa Cruz Flats where they utilize sod and alfalfa fields. The highest reported counts were in the 45-50 range (m. ob.). Most American Avocets vacate the region by the end of October, so two continuing through 20 Dec at Whitewater (m. ob.) were unusual, as was one at L. Cochise 16-18 Dec (JH). The first spring migrants were detected when “casual” at Whitewater 11 Feb (TBa). The three present that day increased to 16 by the end of February (m.ob.). A flock of about 150 Greater Yellowlegs using a flooded field in the Santa Cruz Flats 12 Jan (L. Story) was quite large for the region. A Western Sandpiper was “rare” at Evergreen Turf in the Santa Cruz Flats 20 Jan (ph. ACo). The only Dunlins in the region were two continuing at Thatcher STP through 8 Jan (m. ob.). Never expected but possible in almost any month were two Red Phalaropes at Patagonia L. 5 Dec (MB). Bonaparte’s Gull is a “casual” winter visitor to the region so the six individuals reported in a narrow window made a good showing:

 

Amado/Arivaca STP  4 Dec ph. EDu
Avra Valley         4 Dec JH
Benson STP 6 Dec DDu et al.
Faria Dairy  6 Dec DDU et al.
L. Cochise   6 Dec PSa et al.
Whitewater  8 Dec TBa

 

A Heermann’s Gull was a good find at Amado/Arivaca STP 25 Jan (K. Zvonik; ph. LHal). California Gull is also “casual” in winter; nine were reported. Never more than “casual”, single Herring Gulls were at L. Willcox 3 Jan (SO) and Whitewater 10 Jan (C. Lund).

There were a scattering of Ruddy Ground-Doves reports. At Whitewater, numbers increased from one to three, with sightings continuing through the season (m. ob.). One each were reported near the San Pedro House 1 Dec (JSab), the northern Sulphur Springs Valley along Fort Grant Rd. in southern Graham Co. 17 Dec-11 Mar (ph. JC), at Double Adobe CG 24-31 Jan (RB), and at Rio Rico 25 Feb (ph. T. Reed). Well away from any recent known locations, a Ferruginous Pygmy-owl was in riparian habitat along the Santa Cruz R. near Tubac 13 Jan (ph. CBen). As far as I am aware, there have been no records of wandering by this species in the region in at least a decade. A Spotted Owl was an unusual find in Pine Canyon, Atascosa Mtns. 22 Dec (JM). Three Spotted Owls found in the lowlands were more than the average. Typically, these are young birds. They were found in a tamarisk in the Santa Cruz Flats 8 Jan (ph. DJ), a slightly injured bird brought from Casa Grande to a rehabber 2 Feb (fide JHol), and in a development near Sabino Canyon, Tucson 2 Feb-9 Mar (J. & ph. M. Hengesbaugh). A Long-eared Owl was in ne. Tucson 2 Feb (BN, ph. PSu) and eight roosted at Buenos Aires NWR 20 Feb (BWal). A scant few Short-eared Owls were reported with singles in the San Rafael Valley 6 Dec (N. Bonomo) and near Elgin 7 Dec (J. Hand, N. Bonomo). Common Poorwills are known to “hibernate” in the region in winter; perhaps it was the warm winter that aroused them to call and be detected in above normal numbers, with 12 reported 27 Jan-26 Feb in multiple mountain ranges. Flocks of White-throated Swifts are not unexpected in the lowlands of the region in winter, but 1000 or more in the Santa Cruz Flats 29 Dec (DSt) was remarkable.

A few Magnificent Hummingbirds moved down slope to the lowlands, with one visiting Bisbee feeders 14 Dec-13 Jan (SW), one in ne. Tucson 15 Dec (fide RHo), and one w. of the Santa Rita Mtns. 30 Dec (JMc). Another was seen away from feeders in Huachuca Canyon 30 Dec (DSt). Two Broad-tailed Hummingbirds wintered for the third consecutive year in two central Tucson yards 15 Dec+ (ph. MA) and (fide RHo). Another was at Dancing Turtle Tank near Portal 23-25 Dec (DJo). Returning migrants showed up in late February as expected with three noted 22-26 Feb (TBa, LHal, LMg). Three Rufous Hummingbirds lingered into December and the first migrants returned in mid-February, with six noted 14-19 Feb (m. ob.). Broad-billed Hummingbirds largely depart from Cochise Co. in winter, so these lingerers were noted: singles at Dragoon Mountain Ranch through 19 Dec (ph. ARi), at Hereford 6 Dec-27 Jan (RBe), at Bisbee 7 Dec-23 Feb (SW), and Portal 25 Jan (C. Huizinga). Also notable were three on the Dudleyville CBC 4 Jan (DJ et al.), only the third time they have been found on the count and a new high count. A female Broad-billed in Tucson was gathering nesting material on an early date 4 Feb (MA) and another was doing the same at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum 14 Feb (MPo, MSt). A nest with an egg was found at Saddlebrooke 25 Feb (BBo). At the Chuparosa Inn, Madera Canyon, a male Broad-billed present 14 Feb (L. Calvo) made the earliest arrival there in 18 years of observations. A few Violet-crowned Hummingbirds lingered into early December. One spent the winter in lower Ramsey Canyon (J&MH). Apparent spring arrivals began 12 Jan with one in Flux Canyon (TA), in Tucson 15 Jan (G. Reeves), and in Hereford 28 Jan (TBa). We are used to Elegant Trogons wintering in small numbers but this winter there were some surprises. At Patagonia L., the male present since November was joined by a second bird. Often called a female, it seems to have instead been an immature male, which became more apparent as it molted (m. ob.). In the Santa Rita Mtns., a group of three trogons were seen in varying numbers in lower Florida Canyon near the Work Center 13 Dec+ (E. Pilotte; ph. N. Williams et al.). An immature male seen about a mile farther down Florida Wash 23 Jan (MSt, MPo) was likely part of that group. Given the dates, the following birds were either wintering or early spring arrivals: single trogons were in Montosa Canyon 1 Feb (LHal et al.), Agua Caliente Canyon 15 Feb (JWi), French Joe Canyon 17 Feb (D. Radin), and Sunnyside Canyon approximately 22 Feb (E. Anderson). The only Green Kingfisher report was secondhand, from the San Pedro R., north of Hwy 90 8 Jan (fide DNa).

Only six Lewis’s Woodpeckers were reported this winter. Most notable was one at Reid Park that lingered longer into spring than most do, through 1 May (m. ob.). A Gila Woodpecker was an oddity in pine-oak woodland at Bear Canyon, Santa Catalina Mtns., continuing through at least 21 Feb (m. ob.). Moving upslope is not a typical wintering strategy, but this species has a history of this seemingly odd seasonal behavior. Williamson’s Sapsuckers were more numerous than usual in the mountains this winter (m. ob.), or perhaps the warm and dry weather just provided better access to the mountains. Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers were again fairly numerous, as follows:

 

Ne. Tucson 10-15 Dec ph. BN
Reid Park  16 Dec RF et al.
Portal-Paradise Rd.  28 Dec JY
Sweetwater   14 Jan ph. ACo
Patagonia L. 24 Jan-7 Mar ph. K. Frisch (juv.)
Patagonia L.  1 Feb LHal (adult)
Sam Lena Park 9-16 Feb BWil
Kino Springs 17 Feb RT

 

The Red-breasted Sapsucker continued at White House Picnic Area, Madera Canyon through 27 Jan (m. ob.). The multiple tracks worn in the grass and leaf litter leading close up to its favored tree testified to the dedication of those seeking to photograph it at the closest possible range. Yellow-shafted Northern Flickers were reported at tiny Tahoe Park, Tucson 22 Dec (BWil), Cave Creek Ranch, Portal 19 Jan (SO), and Tubac 28 Feb (ph. T. Johnson). Crested Caracaras were present again in the Santa Cruz Flats, in varying numbers all season. Most observations were of fewer than 40 caracaras, but 43 were seen flying by at dusk 9 Jan (CBen et al.) and an unprecedented 104 (21 adults, the rest immature) were seen 24 Jan (DJ) along Sasco Rd. west of the feed lot, with 80 there 28 Jan (BWal, L. Morris). They were attracted to freshly disked fields. A similar field south of Three Points attracted 16 caracaras 14 Dec (RS). Wandering caracaras included one near Tubac 18 Dec (PSu), two in the Avra Valley along Mile Wide Rd. 3 Feb (SO), and one at Rio Rico 4 Feb (L. Miller, ph. J. Vogt).

This winter’s Greater Pewees included one continuing in Evergreen Cemetery, Tucson through 7 Feb, one along the Santa Cruz R. south of Tubac 29 Dec-2 Jan (LHal) (where one had been present in fall) and one in French Joe Canyon 14 Jan-17 Feb (L. Brug). Three “Western” Flycatchers were found: one continuing at Sabino Canyon Dam all season that gave calls consistent with Pacific-slope Flycatcher (m. ob.), one at Arivaca L. 22 Dec (WR), and one along the Santa Cruz R. near Santa Gertrudis Lane 6 Jan (KK). There were relatively few Eastern Phoebes, with singles at Saint David 15-22 Dec (TLe; ph. ARi), at Empire Gulch, Las Cienegas NCA 26 Dec-3 Feb (KK), and at San Bernardino NWR 30 Dec-6 Mar (RWe). As expected, a few Ash-throated Flycatchers were reported wintering in the region, but one in a Tucson yard 19 Feb was considered an early migrant (DSt). Nine Cassin’s Kingbirds were reported in early December, four of which stayed at least into January. Ten more were reported in the first half of January. Of these 19, five lingered into February. This flycatcher has become more numerous as a wintering species in recent years. One Bell’s Vireo was found in winter, at Lincoln Park’s Atturbury Wash 26 Dec (MSt, MPo) and the first apparent migrant was heard singing at Catalina SP 27 Feb (DT), about on time. The Warbling Vireo that lingered at Sabino Canyon in fall was last reported 29 Dec (m. ob.), a late date for this species. The Clark’s Nutcracker irruption noted in fall continued into winter. Up to four were on Mt. Graham near Shannon CG 9-15 Dec (ph. ARi), one was near Treasure Park, Mt. Graham 29 Dec (R. Wilde), and one was high in the Chiricahua Mtns. at Barfoot Junction 16 Jan (JY). Scattered reports of American Crows didn’t seem to quite amount to an irruption but they were more widespread than usual:

 

1 Whitewater 1  Dec (CRo)
1 Faria Dairy 7 Jan (GB, JM)
A few Eloy, pecan grove 11 Jan (GB)
1 Fort Grant Rd. 11-12 Jan (JC)
30 Rio Rico 1 Feb (LHal)

 

Warmer winters have been associated with an increase in winter sightings of swallows. Those observed on “casual” dates included single Tree Swallows at Whitewater 22 Dec (DBr) and 1-9 Jan (RB), a Violet-green Swallow in Marana 24 Jan (KK), and single Barn Swallow at Columbus Park 6 Dec (MPo, MSt), Silverbell recharge basins 6 Dec (MSt, MPo), Santa Cruz R., Marana 12 Dec (ph. ACo), and Sierra Vista STP 21 Dec (EW). The movement of Mountain Chickadees into the lowlands seen in other regions of the state did not appear to reach this region. A Red-breasted Nuthatch was in the lowlands at Tucson 15 Dec (PSa). In the “Winter Wren” category, single Pacific Wrens were found continuing in Huachuca Canyon through 7 Apr (m. ob.), in Florida Canyon 10 Dec (C. Turner), along the Santa Cruz R. near Tubac 10 Jan (D. Griffin), and at Escapule Wash 21 Jan-16 Feb (M. & L. Ports). A Winter Wren was reported on the Dudleyville CBC along the San Pedro R. north of the confluence with Aravaipa Cr. 4 Jan. (TC). Both of the Sinaloa Wrens found in fall thrilled birders all season (at Huachuca Canyon and Tubac) (m. ob.). Black-capped Gnatcatchers continued in Montosa Canyon, Florida Canyon, and at Patagonia L. (m. ob.). Golden-crowned Kinglets have become sparser in the region, so reports are of interest. In the Chiricahua Mtns., two were in Cave Creek Canyon 10 Jan (JM, JY). In the Santa Rita Mtns. three were seen in upper Madera Canyon 28 Dec (RHo) and two (the same?) were along the Carrie Nation Trail 26 Jan (LHal). Eastern Bluebirds are seldom seen in the lowlands in the region. Two were at Catalina SP 30 Dec (ph W. Schackwitz). At higher elevation, three were in the Paige Cr. drainage of the Rincon Mtns. 22 Feb (ph. PSu). No Rufous-backed Robins or Varied Thrushes were found in the region this season. A flock of about 370 American Robins flooding down the canyon was an unusual sight at Portal 9 Jan (JM). Small numbers of longspurs were reported in the Santa Cruz Flats, with four Chestnut-collared at Evergreen Turf 17 Jan (LHal) and six McCown’s Longspurs there 28 Feb (ph. L. Hoeniger).

As usual, there were interesting winter warblers. An Ovenbird was at lower Florida Canyon 25-26 Feb (R. Zach). Four Louisiana Waterthrushes were found: one continued along the Santa Cruz R. south of Ina Rd. through 1 Jan (m. ob.), another continued at Sabino Canyon Dam all season (m. ob.), one was along Sonoita Cr. below Patagonia again 19 Dec (MSt), and one was along the San Pedro R. north of Hwy 90 12 Jan (RB). Black-and-White Warblers were reported from 10 locations, with some observed all winter. Northern Parulas were reported from seven locations. A Magnolia Warbler was an excellent find along Tanque Verde Wash near Wentworth Rd., Tucson 6 Dec-19 Feb (ph. PSu); what was apparently the same bird re-appeared there in April. A Palm Warbler was found along the Santa Cruz R. at the Roger Road STP 15 Dec (C. Blake, ph. CBe) and seen again 24 Jan. Another good find was a very drab Pine Warbler at Reid Park 8 Dec-7 Feb (MSt; ph. LHal et al.). Unlike Townsend’s Warbler, Hermit Warbler is an exceptionally rare winter visitor; one was near the Sinaloa Wren in Huachuca Canyon 29 Dec (ph. M. Anderson) and again 15 Feb-6 Mar (EW; ph. LHal). Rufous-capped Warblers continued in lower Florida Canyon all season. The number reported ranged from one to four (28 Dec LHal) to as many as seven (1 Feb TBa). In Hunter Canyon, Huachuca Mtns. there were no reports between the end of the fall season and 1 Jan+ when three were reported (EW). None were reported from French Joe Canyon, but the poor condition of the road there and presence of the species in “easier” locations limits the number of observers. A few Wilson’s Warblers were found in December, but the only one that was observed beyond that was present all winter at Sweetwater (m. ob.).

Out-of-range Rufous-winged Sparrows were reported from Palominas 1 Dec (JSab), Benson 19 Jan (JM), and Saint David 24 Feb (ARi). Most notable perhaps was one east to Portal in “Jasper’s yard” 15 Feb+ (BRo). Botteri’s Sparrows were detected again this winter, with up to 10 at Patagonia Lake Ranch Estates again 14 Dec-29 Jan (ASc), one near Palominas again 16 Dec (RBe), and in lower Ash Canyon 1 Feb (RBe). A Clay-colored Sparrow was found near McNeal 20 Dec (EW). A Fox Sparrow along the Santa Cruz R. in Marana 10-13 Dec (DSt; ph. ACo) was identified as of the altivagans type. A Red Fox Sparrow was at Chuparosa Inn, Madera Canyon 28 Dec-13 Jan (L. Calvo; ph. LHal). Five Slate-colored Fox Sparrows were reported. Six Swamp Sparrows were reported. A Harris’s Sparrow brought many birders to Himmel Park, Tucson for the first time 29 Dec+ (ph. SO). An oriantha White-crowned Sparrow, rare and irregular in winter, was spotted among gambelii White-crowneds in the Santa Cruz Flats 31 Dec (DSt). A dorsalis Dark-eyed Junco was in Bear Canyon, Santa Catalina Mtns. 19 Jan (ph. V. Aikens). A Yellow-eyed Junco moved down slope to Peppersauce Canyon 13 Jan (DJ), providing a rare observation for Pinal Co. Casual in winter, single adult male Summer Tanagers wintered along Tanque Verde Wash 1 Dec-17 Feb (ph. PSu) and at Reid Park 7 Dec-7 Apr (MPo; m. ob.). Very casual in winter, single Western Tanagers were along the Santa Cruz R. near Ina Rd. 12 Dec (WR) and near Carmen 4 Jan (ph. ASc). Also casual in winter, single Rose-breasted Grosbeaks were in ne. Tucson 2 Dec (J. Smith), Patagonia 4-7 Jan (LMg), and Bisbee 23 Feb-2 Mar (SW). Another casual-in-winter species is Blue Grosbeak; singles were at Sweetwater 23 Jan-7 Feb (ph. EB) and Tubac 23-28 Feb (ph. MLe). An Indigo Bunting was casual at Whitewater 9 Jan (RT). Accidental in winter, a Dickcissel was at the confluence of Rillito R. and Santa Cruz R. 28 Dec-26 Jan (A. Darrah; ph. ACo). Casual and occurring primarily in winter, a Rusty Blackbird was at Black Draw, San Bernardino NWR 30 Jan (RWe). Three Hooded Orioles were spotted in December and four presumed early migrants turned up beginning 13 Feb. Four Bullock’s Orioles were reported in December and January. Lawrence’s Goldfinches seemed to be few in number this winter in the region.

 

Cited observers: Moez Ali (MA), Kathe Anderson (KA), Walt Anderson (WA), Keith Archibald (KAr), Rich Armstrong (RAr), John Arnett (JAr), Tom Arny (TA), Ron Auler (RAu), Tony Battiste (TBa), Ethan Beasley (EB), Harvey Beatty (HBe), Dave Beaudette (DBe), Ron Beck (RBe), Robert Behrstock (RB),    Chris Benesh (CBen),Gavin Bieber (GB), Kathleen Blair (KB), Terence Blows (TBl), Al Borgardt (AB), Helga Borgardt (HBor), Gary Botello (GBo), Bob Bowers (BBo), Robert Bowker (RBow), Dennis Braddy (DBr), Diane Brown (DBro), Matt Brown (MB), Bill Burger (BB), Sue Burk (SuB), Steve & Sue Burk (S&SB), Neil Butchard (NB), Laurence Butler(LBt), Richard Carlson (RCa), Barbara Carlson (BC), Sue Carnaham (SC), Dale Clark (DC), Karina Cocks (KC), Jeff Coker (JC), Peter Collins (PC), Tom Conlin (TCo), Bea Cooley (BCo), John Coons (JCn), Andrew Core (ACo), Troy Corman (TC), Richard Crossley (RCr), Joe Crouse (JCr), Tommy DeBardeleben (TDeB), Marc Deering (MDe), DeeDee DeLorenzo (DDe), Henry Detwiler (HD), Suzanne Detwiler (SDe), Rich Ditch (RDi), Cynthia Donald (CD), Samantha Dorr (SD), Sue Drown (SDr), Russell (Duerksen (RDue), David Dunford (DDu), Ed Dunn (EDu), Gregg Dunn (GD), Jon L Dunn (JLD), Elias Elias (EE), Mike Evans (MEv), Craig Fischer (CFi), Richard Fray (RF), Cody Funk (CoF), Tom Gaskill (TGa), Brian Gatlin (BGa), Eric Gdula (EG), Jeff Gilligan (JG), Sharon Goldwasser (SGo), Pat Goltz (PG), Clive Green (CG), Bill Grossi (BGro), Felipe Guerrero (FG), Dave Hallock (DHal), Laurens Halsey (LHal), Homer Hansen (HHa), Brooks Hart (BH), Lauren Harter (LHar), Stuart Healy (SH), Brian Healy (BHe), Rick Heffernon (RHef), Melanie Herring (MHe), John Higgins (JH), John & Marty Hirth (J&MH), Louis Hoeniger (LH), Jack Holloway (JHol), Justin Hopkins (JHo),           Steve Hosmer (SHo), Eric Hough (ErH), Sam Hough (SaH), Bob Hough (BHo), Rich Hoyer (RHo), Rob Hunt (RHu), Brian Ison (BIs), Doug Jenness (DJ), David Johnson (DJo), Oscar Johnson (OJ),Tom Johnson (TJ), Justin Jones (JJ), John Jung (JJu), Keith Kamper (KK),     Gordon Karre (GKa), Jay Keller (JKell), Judy Kennedy (JKe), Douglas Killourie (DKi), Claudia Kirscher (CK), Larry Langstaff (LL), Shawn Langston (SLa), Chuck LaRue (CLR), Paul Lehman (PL), Anne Leight (ALe), Tom Leskiew (TLe), Michael Lester (MLe), Cathy LeVine (CLe), Tom Lewis (TLew), Tom Linda (TL), Tyler Loomis (TLo), Lois Lorenz (LLo), Bev Malmberg (BMal), Tim Marquardt (TMa), Janine McCabe (JMc), Chris McCreedy (CMc), James McKay (JMcK), Barry McKee (BaMc), Mickey McLean (MMc), Barb Meding (BMe), Bobby Metz (BMz), Bob Miller (BoM), Brandon Miller (BrM), Jake Mohlmann (JM), David Moll (DM), Vanessa Montgomery (VM), Larry Morgan (LMg), Elaine Morrall (EM), Roy Morris (RMo), Peter Moulton (PMo), Ken Murphy (KM), Dutch Nagle (DNa), Muriel Neddermeyer (MNe), Vic Nelson (VN), Brian Nicholas (BN), Michael Nicosia (MN), Brian Nordstrom (BNo), Larry Norris (LN), Mark Ochs (MOc), Scott Olmstead (SO), Jan Parrott (JPar), Dave Pearson (DPe), Jason Pietrzak (JPz), Lonnie Pilkington (LPi), Diane Poleyquiva (DPq), Molly Pollock (MPo), Dave Porter (DPt), Dave Powell (DPo), Shaun Putz (SPu), Kurt Radamaker (KR), Jan Richmond (JRi), Micah Riegner (MiR), Arlene Ripley (ARi), Jeff Ritz (JRz), Bob Rodriguez (BRo), Chris Rohrer (CRo), Rose Anne Rowlett (RAR), Will Russell (WR), John Saba (JSab), Peter Salomon (PSa), Drew Sattler (DSa), Alan Schmierer (ASc), Robert Shantz (RS), Mark and Farrish Sharon (M&FSh), Dominic Sherony (DShe), Roger Sleeper (RSl), Chrissy Smith (CSm), Zachary Smith (ZS), John Spence (JS), BJ Stacey (BJS), Barton Stegman (BSte), Dave Stejskal (DSt), Mark Stevenson (MSt), Caleb Strand (CSd), Anita Strawn de Ojeda (ASO), Ed Strong (ES), Paul Suchanek (PSu), Tice Supplee (TSu), David Sussman (DSu), Donald Sutherland (DoS), Rick Taylor (RT), Jim Taylor (JTa), Craig Thayer (CTh), Carl Tomoff (CT), Diane Touret (DT), David Vander Pluym (DVP), Christina Vojta (CV), Brian Walsh (BWal), Magill Weber (MWeb), Richard Webster (RWe), John West (JWe), Jason Wilder (JWi), John Williams (JWill), Nathan Williams (NWil), Sheri Williamson (SW), Brett Wilmore (BWil), Erika Wilson (EW), Tom Wood (TWo), Connie Worth (CWor), Nick Worth (NW), John Yerger (JY), Brenda Zaun (BZa), Zack Zdinak (ZZ).    

 

 

 

Seasonal Reports Archive

Abbreviations for AZFO Seasonal Reports

Arizona Bird Committee = ABC
Arizona Breeding Bird Atlas = Atlas
Arizona Field Ornithologists = AZFO
Arizona Game and Fish Department = AZG&F
Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park = BTA
Bed and Breakfast= B&B
Breeding Bird Survey = BBS
Cow Springs Lake = CSL
Continued through end of season = +
Creek = Cr.
Gilbert Water Ranch = GWR
Lake = L.
lower Colorado River valley = LCRV
Many Farms Lake = MFL
Mount = Mt.
Mountain = Mtn.
Mountains = Mtns.
National Conservation Area = NCA
National Monument = NM
National Park = NP
National Recreation Area = NRA
National Wildlife Refuge = NWR
North American Migration Count = NAMC
Painted Rock Dam = PRD
Reservoir = Res.
Riparian National Conservation Area = RNCA
River = R.
Road = Rd.
Sewage Treatment Plant = STP (WTP or EOP is used when that is the specific given name of a location as at Roger Road or Sierra Vista)
Sound recording submitted to ABC or AZFO = s.r.
State Park = SP
State Highway = AZ 79; AZ 88; etc.
Video recording submitted to ABC = v.r.
Wildlife Area = WA

 



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