ARIZONA SEASONAL REPORTS

Winter 2010-2011

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

Introduction

This season we begin the fourth year of compiling and publishing seasonal reports for Arizona. This undertaking wouldn't be possible without the time and care that our network of regional coordinators put into assembling the unusual sightings of scores of field ornithologists throughout the state. They are helping to create a unique repository of information on the changing patterns of bird distribution and migration in Arizona.

One of the noteworthy features of the winter season is that hundreds of birders go into the field for a three-week period of Christmas Bird Counts, which contributes much useful data that we might not get otherwise. This year 35 counts were held 14 December-5 January throughout the state. We also were able to draw on the valuable findings of AZG&F water bird surveys, as well as the annual Phoenix Urban Aquatic Bird Survey. With more regular attention by observers to water birds in the lower Colorado R. valley, some exceptionally high counts were registered for several species, notably Greater Scaup.

A Baikal Teal found in Maricopa Co. in December was enjoyed for more than a week by many birders. If accepted it will be the first Arizona record for this species. Also, the state's first photo-documented Sedge Wren, discovered in November at Peña Blanca L., continued through the winter. For various reasons the numbers for some irregularly wintering species, such as Lawrence's Goldfinch, Lewis's Woodpecker, and Mountain Bluebird were very low. There also were no substantial irruptions into the lowlands of montane species. However, the 10-11 Rufous-backed Robins found in three regions was a good number.

This was the first winter season since the “Winter Wren” was split into two species -  Pacific and Winter (eastern) - and interestingly there were more reports of both forms than has typically been the case. There were 14 Winter Wrens in four regions and nine Pacific Wrens in four regions. The former, an ABC review species, is considered to be less common than the latter. It is too soon to tell whether the unexpected greater number of Winter Wrens is due to a one-year spurt, part of a longer-term phenomenon, or the result of closer scrutiny by birders. Reports from several regions have been giving closer attention to the Mexican subspecies of Mallard. Closer examination of potential Mexican Ducks in flocks of Mallards and learning how to identify and separate them from intergrades between the forms can help better understand their status in the state.

 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. Many of these sightings are hyperlinked to photos on the AZFO web site. All reports of review species have had documentation submitted to the ABC and are “pending acceptance” by the ABC. 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 (A.O.U.), Arizona Bird Committee (ABC), Arizona Breeding Bird Atlas (Atlas), Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZG&F), Bed and Breakfast (B&B), 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).

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—Doug Jenness, Statewide Coordinator, AZFO Seasonal Reports

Mohave

Abbreviations: Bill Williams Delta (BWD), Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge (BWR NWR), Lake Havasu City (LHC), Site 6, Pittsburgh Point, Lake Havasu City (Site 6), Havasu National Wildlife Refuge (HNWR) Bullhead City (BHC), Lake Mead National Recreation Area (L. Mead NRA), lower Colorado River Valley (LCRV)

Dry and unusually warm conditions in the first half of December resulted in record high temperatures in Mohave Co. on the 12th and 13th. However, by the middle of the month very cold low pressure systems moved through Arizona producing exceptional precipitation and catastrophic flooding in nw. Mohave Co. January was mild and unusually dry, but temperatures became much colder in February. Wikieup set an all-time record low of 8° F. on 3 Feb and Kingman tied a record low of 13° F. on 2 and 3 Feb. Extreme strong winds hit the region during the middle part of the month and two notable storm systems from 19-21 and 25-27 Feb produced rain throughout much of the county. Exceptional sightings during the season included three species of scoters, Yellow-billed Loon, Mew Gull, Thayer’s Gull, Eastern Phoebe, and Rufous-backed Robin.

Early spring migrants, 60 Greater White-fronted Geese were spotted flying west down the Big Williams R. in the BWR NWR 19 Jan (WPa, BPa, m. ob.). Large flocks of wintering Snow Geese were reported throughout the season, with the first sighting comprised of 1136 individuals 2 Dec in the Bermuda Pasture, HNWR (JRi, DDe). A single Snow Goose stayed at Rotary Park, LHC 16-30 Dec (DVP, LHar). Flying over N. Topock Marsh, HNWR 16 Dec, 2687 Snow Geese were headed for local agricultural fields (DDe, G. Hamilton). The high count for Snow Geese was 4685 during the Havasu CBC, 28 Dec (fide DDe). Other sightings of Snow Geese were: 1260, including one blue morph, flying over N. Topock Marsh, HNWR 28 Jan (DVP, DDe), one at Katherine Landing, L. Mead NRA 29 Jan (LHar, DVP), and a large flock of 1153 over N. Topock Marsh 11 Feb (JWe, DDe). A Snow x Ross’s Goose was observed 16-30 Dec at Rotary Park, LHC (DVP, LHar). At the beginning of the season three Ross’s Geese were spotted among the Snow Geese 2 Dec in the Bermuda Pasture (JRi, DDe) and 10 were counted as they flew over N. Topock Marsh, HNWR 16 Dec (DDe, G. Hamilton). At Rotary Park, LHC two Ross’s Geese were seen 16-30 Dec (DVP, LHar) and another was reported at the Katherine Landing Marina, L. Mead NRA 13 Dec-29 Jan (CLu, m. ob.). Large numbers of Ross’s Geese were mixed in large flocks of Snow Geese in midseason: 54 were seen over N. Topock Marsh, HNWR 28 Jan (DVP, DDe), 36 were reported 29 Jan near N. Dike, HNWR (LHar, DVP), and 110 were counted among large V’s of Snow Geese flying over N. Dike, HNWR 11 Feb (DDe, ph. JWe). The small number of Tundra Swans that visit the LCRV in the winter arrived late this year. The first to arrive were four immatures reported 1 Jan on n. L. Havasu near Desert Hills (LHar). The next day these were again observed at Castle Rock, L. Havasu (ph. JWe). Two adult Tundra Swans were reported 13 Jan on S. Topock Marsh, HNWR (DDe, JPar, MPen) and two adults, possibly the same individuals, were found 29 Jan near N. Dike, HNWR (DVP, LHar). South of Five-mile Landing, HNWR three adult Tundra Swans were seen 7 Feb (ph. JWe).  

The Wood Duck is a rare but regular winter visitor that can often be found among resident Mallards at local boat marinas. Near the London Bridge, LHC two Wood Ducks were observed 3 Jan (LHar, DVP). A male was found at Katherine Landing, L. Mead NRA 26 Jan (TC) and two males were observed 29 Jan-20 Feb in the same area (DVP, LHar, DDe). A female Wood Duck was on the Colorado R. across from Harrah’s, BHC 20 Feb (DVP, LHar). With no prior records for the LCRV, the sightings of multiple male Mexican x Northern Mallards throughout the season were perplexing and challenging. Whether this is part of their spread north and west or if this is a onetime “invasion” remains to be seen. A probable Mexican x Northern Mallard backcross with a Northern Mallard was found 19 Dec at Rotary Park and remained in LHC until 1 Feb (ph. DVP, LHar). Two possibly pure Mexican Ducks were found 30 Dec at Site 6 and both remained there through 26 Feb (ph. DVP, LHar). Also 30 Dec, a more typical-looking Mexican x Northern Mallard was found at Rotary Park and remained through the season (ph. LHar, DVP). These set off a flurry of sightings of probable intergrades and backcrosses around LHC and elsewhere in the LCRV. Birds in a hen-like plumage showing brown flanks, a mix of brown and gray in the coverts and tertials, and black in the uppertail coverts are more “typical” looking intergrades, which were present at the Mulberry Sewage Treatment Plant, LHC 13 Feb (LHar, DVP) and at Rotary Park 20 Feb (LHar, ph. DVP). Different birds of mixed Mexican x Northern Mallard parentage were also seen 2 Jan and two birds were found 26 Feb, with one continuing through the period at Rotary Park, LHC (ph. DVP, LHar). Another bird 1-26 Feb at Site 6 (ph. DVP, LHar) was joined by a second 26 Feb (LHar, ph. DVP). On the Colorado R. in BHC, near Harrah’s one apparently pure Mexican Duck was observed 5-20 Feb (DVP, LHar).

 Likely an early spring migrant, a male Blue-winged Teal, a rare to uncommon spring and fall transient, was discovered at the Mulberry Sewage Treatment Plant, LHC 27 Jan (DVP, LHar). With only two previous records of Cinnamon Teal between 13 Oct and 15 Dec (in Rosenberg et al. 1991), one in N. Topock Marsh near N. Dike, HNWR 9 Dec (DDe) and two in Pintail Slough, HNWR 16 Dec (DDe, G. Hamilton) are surprising. Four Cinnamon Teal were also reported during the Havasu CBC 28 Dec (fide DDe) and there were reported sightings from Pintail Slough of two, 24 Jan (LHar, DVP); 76, 21 Feb (DDe); and 80, 26 Feb (DVP, LHar). Although as many as 350 Canvasbacks have been reported in recent years during fall migration in the LCRV the report of 200+ 10 Dec on n. L. Havasu is a high number for winter (DVP, LHar).  

Usually found only in small numbers among Lesser Scaup, the large counts of Greater Scaup throughout the LCRV this winter are very noteworthy. The largest numbers were reported in the BWD (which included birds in both Mohave and La Paz counties) with smaller numbers at other sites along the Colorado R.:

43          BWD                                 2 Dec (LHar, DVP)

20          n. L. Havasu                    10 Dec (LHar, DVP)

148        BWD                                12 Dec (LHar, DVP)

136        BWD                                17 Dec (BPa, WPa)

29          Pittsburgh Pt.                  23 Dec (LHar)

70          BWR CBC                        29 Dec (fide KB)

2            below Davis Dam            26 Jan (TC)

212        BWD                                27Jan (LHar, DVP)

307        BWD                                 9 Feb  (LHar, DVP)

4            Topock Marsh                 11 Feb (DDe, JWe)

144        BWD                               17 Feb (WPa, BPa)

252        BWD                               21 Feb (DVP, LHar)

The Surf Scoter is a rare and irregular late fall visitor, so seven reports of continuing Surf Scoters in the BWD throughout December and early January are exceptional. As many as four (maybe five) Surf Scoters have been reported in the BWD in winter, so six, continuing from the fall, on the BWD 2 Dec (LHar, DVP) were noteworthy. Up to five individuals continued until 29 Dec, with two adults and a young male being the last report 2 Jan (LH, DVP). The White-winged Scoter is another rare winter visitor in the LCRV, so the discovery of two in the BWD 2 Dec (KB, WPa, BPa) and one with female plumage at Mesquite Bay, L. Havasu 22 Jan (LHar, ph. DVP et al.) are noteworthy. Considered a casual winter visitor, a female Black Scoter was found in the BWD 19 Dec and was present through the end of the period (DVP, LHar, ph. JWe, m. ob.). It was joined by a second female 9 Feb (LHar, DVP, m. ob.) that likely was the bird previously present below Parker Dam. An impressive number of 200 Buffleheads were at the n. end of L. Havasu 10 Dec (DVP, LHar). Other sightings of large numbers of Buffleheads included 75 in the Topock Gorge 16 Dec (KB, JRi), 70 seen from a boat between Site 6 and the n. end of L. Havasu 22 Jan (LHar, DVP), and 60 at the n. end of L. Havasu 10 Feb (DVP, LHar). Barrow’s Goldeneye, usually found with flocks of Common Goldeneyes, are rare but regular winter visitors to the LCRV. Numerous sightings of one to eight Barrow’s Goldeneyes occurred on the BWD 2 Dec-28 Feb (m. ob.). One female Barrow’s Goldeneye was found in the waters below Davis Dam 13 Dec-29 Jan (CLu, TC, m. ob.).

The Hooded Merganser is a rare but regular winter visitor, but the report of 15 found below Davis Dam 26 Jan (TC) is an unusually large number in the region. Flocks of Common Mergansers in the BWD increased in size from 25 individuals, 2 Dec (BPa, WPa) to a high count of 300, 12 Jan (DVP, LHar), then slowly decreased to 76 by 28 Jan (WPa, BPa). Small numbers of Red-breasted Mergansers appeared regularly throughout the season with a high count of six occurring 12 Dec in the BWD (DVP, LHar). One to four Red-breasted Mergansers were also found at the n. end of L. Havasu 17-18 Dec, Site 6, 23 Dec, (DVP, LHar), and early spring Red-breasted Merganser migrants were found on L. Mohave 26 Jan-26 Feb (m. ob.). Three loon species were observed in the northern part of the LCRV throughout the winter. At Site 6, two Pacific Loons were reported 9 Dec (LHar, DVP) and three were found at the same location 20 Dec (LHar, DVP). Common Loons were seen regularly on the larger bodies of water in the LCRV from early December through the end of the period. The high count on the BWD was six, 12 Dec (LHar, DVP); the most for L. Havasu was 25 at Site 6, 23 Dec (LHar, DVP). Eight were at Take-off Point, above Parker Dam 4 Feb (DVP) and four were at the same location 21 Feb (LHar, DVP); two individuals, one at Katherine Landing and the other at Princess Cove, L. Mead NRA were seen 20-26 Feb (DVP, LHar). Rare away from the LCRV a Common Loon on Alamo L. 17 Jan (LHar, DVP) was of interest. First discovered in La Paz Co. a Yellow-billed Loon moved into Mohave Co. waters at Take-off Point, above Parker Dam 7 Feb+ (DDe, KDe, m. ob.).

The Horned Grebe is a rare but expected winter visitor, so numerous reports of one or two observed in the northern part of the LCRV 2 Dec-20 Feb are noteworthy (m. ob.). Off Pittsburgh Point a high count of six Horned Grebes was made 23 Dec (DVP, LHar). A Red-necked Grebe was reported near Site 6, 22 Dec (DVP, LHar). Although Eared Grebe is a common winter visitor, unusually large concentrations were reported this season. The largest raft of Eared Grebes included 2500 birds observed near Site 6, 16 Dec (LHar, DVP). Other reports of large numbers included: 500, 20 Dec and 1440, 23 Dec both at Site 6 (LHar, DVP); 400, 23 Dec off Mesquite Bay (LHar, DVP); 103, 23 Dec in the BWD (KB). Rarely seen in winter in the northern part of the LCRV, eight reports of American White Pelicans made 2 Dec-21 Feb are unusual. Fifteen were counted on S. Topock Marsh, HNWR 2 Dec (JRi, DDe); one was on the BWD 2-23 Dec (m. ob.); five were found at Beal L., HNWR 21 Jan (LHar, DDe); three were photographed in S. Topock Marsh 13 Feb (ph. JWe); the largest count of the season, 39, flew over Pintail Slough 21 Feb (DDe). A single adult Brown Pelican was in the BWD 21 Dec-11 Jan (WPa, BPa). With reports of the Neotropic Cormorant expanding its range, it is noteworthy that the first one documented in the HNWR was at Catfish Paradise 14 Dec (ph. JWe). Another sighting of a Neotropic Cormorant, probably the same individual, occurred 28 Dec at Catfish Paradise during the HNWR CBC (fide DDe). Then 24 Jan, two, an adult and a juvenile, were spotted at Catfish Paradise (DVP, LHar). A month later, 21 Feb, one Neotropic Cormorant was among a large group of Double-crested Cormorants sitting on snags in N. Topock Marsh (DDe). One Neotropic Cormorant was regularly seen in the BWD 12 Dec-10 Jan (m. ob.), but four were reported during the BWR CBC (fide KB). Two were present 12 Jan and one was seen 13 Feb (LHar, DVP).

Rarely seen in winter in the northern part of the LCRV, one Green Heron was spotted at N. Dike, HNWR 11 Feb (DDe, JWe). Also seldom found in the northern parts of the LCRV in winter, 27 White-faced Ibis were found in the agricultural fields near Pintail Slough, HNWR 9 Dec (DDe) and continued to be seen throughout the season. Flying over N. Dike, 25 ibis were observed 16 Dec (DDe, G. Hamilton), 11 flew over Davis Dam 24 Dec (DVP, LHar), nine were reported at N. Dike during the Havasu CBC (fide DDe), one was at Castle Rock, n. L. Havasu 4 Jan (DVP), and toward the end of the season numbers began to increase in Pintail Slough with 20 reported 20 Feb (DVP, LHar), 46, 21 Feb (DDe), and 40, 26 Feb (LHar, DVP). An early returning Turkey Vulture appeared 5 Jan off Courtwright Rd., Mohave Valley (LHar, DVP). Additional single Turkey Vulture sightings were made throughout January and by 15 Feb three were seen at Cabinsite Point, L. Mohave and eight came in to roost at Katherine Landing (LHar, DVP). By 26 Feb, 22 were counted at Katherine Landing (DVP, LHar).

Rare but regular winter transients, three Ospreys at S. Topock Marsh 11 Feb (JWe, DDe) were unusual. Two young Bald Eagles spent the winter moving between Topock Marsh and the n. end of L. Havasu (m. ob.). During the BWR CBC 29 Dec three Bald Eagles were reported in or around the refuge (fide KB), and three Bald Eagles were also present 17 Jan at Alamo L. (LHar, DVP). Near Five-mile Landing, HNWR, three juv. Bald Eagles were photographed 7 Feb (ph. JWe) and the following week one adult and one young were discovered 13 Feb in S. Topock Marsh (JWe). The Red-shouldered Hawk that arrived at Pintail Slough in September continued to reside in the same cottonwood grove through the winter season (m. ob.) and was last reported 24 Jan (LHar, DVP). In the Kohen/Mesquite area, BWR NWR one Golden Eagle was discovered 19 Jan (WPa, BPa). Most Peregrine Falcons are observed in the LCRV in the fall, so it is noteworthy that two were found in the Topock Gorge 16 Dec (KB, JRi), one was at n. L. Havasu 6 Jan (DVP), and one flew over a field near Pintail Slough 13 Jan (DDe, JPar, MPen).

During the Havasu and BWR CBCs, one Black Rail, a resident species that is rarely reported in winter, was found on each count (fide DDe, KB). Very secretive and perhaps less numerous in winter, six Clapper Rails were heard near Crystal Beach, n. L. Havasu 17 Dec (LHar, DVP). During the Havasu CBC 28 Dec one was found in Topock Marsh (LP). Three were heard at Beal L. 21 Jan (LHar, DDe) and two were calling in n. Topock Marsh 28 Jan (DVP, DDe). Rare during the winter, six likely late fall migrant American Avocets were reported on the BWD 2 Dec (WPa, BPa) and one early northbound migrant was at Rotary Park, LHC 1 Feb (JWe). Greater Yellowlegs move through the LCRV between mid-March and mid-April, so six in Pintail Slough 21 Feb were early migrants (DDe).

Four notable gull species were observed throughout the season in the northern parts of the LCRV: Mew, California, Herring, and Thayer’s. Representing only the 13th state record (pending acceptance), a great find was a first-cycle Mew Gull observed moving between a sandbar just s. of the Laughlin Bridge and Katherine Landing 29 Jan-26 Feb (LHar, ph. DVP). Usually a rare winter visitor, the California Gull made numerous appearances along the Colorado R. this season. At Rotary Park, LHC three California Gulls were reported 2 Dec and a first-cycle bird was spotted 19 Dec (DVP, LHar). Between 31 Dec and 10 Feb, one to three California Gulls were observed at least eight times on or near L. Havasu, and a high count of 11 migrating individuals was seen 19 Feb at Rotary Park, LHC (LHar). Found to be most numerous between the Laughlin Bridge and Katherine Landing, a season high of 40 California Gulls, including two apparent albertaensis individuals, were observed there 24 Dec (DVP, LHar). The albertaensis subspecies is unusual in Arizona. These numbers began to decline in February, with only three seen 20 Feb at Katherine Landing and fewer than 10 found at the same place 26 Feb (DVP, LHar). Not often seen in the BWD, two California Gulls, an adult and one young bird, were discovered there 21 Feb (LHar, DVP). The Herring Gull is a rare but regular winter visitor, so the many reports made this season are unusual. The first sightings were made 2 Dec, with one Herring Gull observed at the BWD (BPa, WPa), two found near Mesquite Point, L. Havasu (LHar, DVP), and two different birds spotted from Site 6 (LHar, DVP). During the season there was only one reported sighting of a Herring Gull at Rotary Park, LHC, one adult discovered 9 Dec (LHar, DVP). Additional sightings were: one in Topock Gorge 16 Dec (KB, JRi), four first-cycle birds s. of the Laughlin Bridge, one adult at Katherine Landing 24 Dec (LHar, DVP), two first-cycle birds found northwest of Site 6, 12 Jan (LHar, DVP), and four adults at the Katherine Landing Marina docks 26 Jan (TC). Three exceptionally high counts were: 15 at Katherine Landing 21 Jan (BGa), 13 (most were adults) near the Laughlin Bridge, and 12 (most were juveniles) at Katherine Landing 5 Feb (DVP, LHar). The last Herring Gull report of the season was of a first-cycle bird at Katherine Landing 15 Feb (DVP). With few well-documented sightings of the Thayer’s Gull in Mohave Co. and Arizona as a whole the possibility of one and maybe two in the northern part of the valley is noteworthy. A gull that appeared to be a Thayer's, although photos do not conclusively rule out a hybrid (e.g., Glaucous-winged x Herring), was reported flying over the Laughlin Bridge 29 Jan (DVP). This may have been the same bird sighted at Katherine Landing 15 Feb (DVP).

White-winged Doves usually begin arriving in mid-March, so one discovered at Rotary Park, LHC 20 Feb (DVP, LHar) and two found at a residence in LHC 24 Feb (JWe) were early. Declining as a resident in the LCRV, the only sightings of Gilded Flickers were in the BWR NWR near Kohen Ranch: six were observed 29 Dec-2 Jan (LHar, KB, DVP), four were reported 17-18 Jan (WPa, BPa), and five were found 19 Jan (WPa, BPa). The only expected wintering Empidonax, one Gray Flycatcher was found at New South Dike, HNWR 24-28 Dec (LHar, DVP). Three were found at Kohen Ranch, BWR NWR 2 Jan (DVP, LHar) and one was discovered in the Mineral Wash area, BWR NWR 9 Jan (DVP, JRi, JWe). The discovery of an Eastern Phoebe, a casual winter visitor, in a mesquite tree along N. Topock Marsh, near N. Dike 28 Jan was a great find (ph. DVP, DDe). In the Big Sandy R. area of Wikieup one Dusky-capped Flycatcher was heard 27 Feb (LHar, DVP). There are few Dusky-capped Flycatcher winter records for anywhere in the state and this may be only the second county record. Although a few Ash-throated Flycatchers winter in the southern part of the state, it was unusual to find one in Havasu Heights, LHC 1 Jan (JRi). Another one, likely an early migrant, arrived in Pintail Slough 20 Feb (DVP, LHar).

Two different Barn Swallows, seen 6 and 22 Jan at the n. end of L. Havasu 9 (DVP, LHar), were very early or wintered locally. A Pacific Wren was identified by sight and sound near the BWR NWR gate to Mineral Wash 27 Dec (JRi). A rare but regular visitor in the winter, a Golden-crowned Kinglet was in the riparian area of the lower BWR NWR 11 Jan (JRi, JWe). Three wintering or migrating Mountain Bluebirds were found along Cholla Canyon Rd. near Wikieup 27 Feb (DVP). A Rufous-backed Robin was discovered in Metcalfe Park, Kingman 19 Jan (LHar) and refound the next day in the same park (ph. LHar, DVP, BGa). Although this species has appeared a scant few times to the north of Arizona, this is exceptionally far north for the species to occur in the state and is only the second report that this species has been documented this far northwest in Arizona. An early northbound or locally wintering Sage Thrasher was observed near Cottonwood Rd., L. Mohave 30 Jan (DVP, LHar). Two LeConte’s Thrashers were discovered along the road to Bonelli Bay in the northern part of the Detrital Valley near L. Mead 30 Jan (LHar, DVP). Two rare wintering warblers were reported during the Havasu CBC 28 Dec: a Yellow Warbler and a Black-throated Gray Warbler (fide DDe). Also reported during the Havasu CBC 28 Dec were two possibly wintering Lark Sparrows (fide DDe). A flock of 30 Sage Sparrows was found in the Sacramento Valley 29 Dec (LHar, DVP). Although likely more frequent in w. Arizona, Golden-crowned Sparrows are still considered rare winter visitors in the state. Therefore, one seen at Burro Creek CG 27 Feb (ph. DVP, LHar) was of interest.

Compiled by Lauren Harter

Abbreviations: Continental Country Club(CCC)

The region experienced fairly average weather this season, including several storms that dropped up to 12 inches of snow. Avian highlights of the season included the county’s first documentation of Winter Wren, two Lapland Longspurs, and a wintering Lark Bunting.

Three rare goose species frequented the CCC in the Flagstaff area this season. A Greater White-fronted Goose visited Walnut Canyon L. 22 Jan (JWi). Three Snow Geese were discovered on the CCC golf courses on the Flagstaff CBC 1 Jan and seen again 6 Jan (TBl, m. ob.). A Ross’s Goose reported in the same area 13 Dec, was joined by a second individual 1 Jan, and both remained in the area until 22 Jan (JCn, et al.). The returning male Eurasian Wigeon continued off-and-on at CCC this winter and was last seen 29 Jan (m. ob.). An Eared Grebe at L. Elaine 3 Dec-1 Jan (ZZ, m. ob.) was a new species for the Flagstaff CBC and is casual in winter in the county away from L. Powell.

There were reports of two different Rough-legged Hawks (based on descriptions). The first was at Mormon L. 27 Jan (ph. JWi) and the other was seen hunting along I-40 about five miles east of Flagstaff 22 Feb (TJ). An unusual find for winter in the area, a Virginia Rail was on the Flagstaff CBC 1 Jan in Picture Canyon (JCn, BP et al.). Wilson’s Snipe is an uncommon and local winter resident above the Mogollon Rim, so up to five in Picture Canyon 11 Jan was a high count for winter (BO). Four White-winged Doves were at Doney Park 6 Dec, with at least one continuing to at least 1 Jan (ph. PKo). Another appeared in a snowy Flagstaff backyard 21 Feb (ph. JWi). Mourning Doves were unusually abundant 21 Jan in San Francisco Wash north of Merrill Crater, with 250 counted in one hour’s hike (CLR). An outstanding three Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers were discovered on the Sedona CBC 26 Dec, two uptown (ZZ, J. Schaefer, RFi) and another in a residential area (DH et al.). This was part of a larger phenomenon across the state. A Northern “Yellow-shafted” Flicker made a brief appearance in a Timberline yard 26 Feb (ph. D. Poleyquiva).

A Northern Shrike was discovered at Mormon L. 4 Dec (KM), presumably the adult returning for its fourth consecutive winter. It was last seen 28 Jan (CLR). Marsh Wrens are uncommon in the region in winter, so three on the Flagstaff CBC 1 Jan and a fourth bird in Flagstaff 9-17 Feb were notable (m. ob.). This was a banner year for Winter Wrens throughout Arizona. Birders in the region discovered two: one at Paria Beach (near Lee's Ferry) 1 Jan-5 Feb (ph. SPu) and one on the Flagstaff CBC at Picture Canyon 1 Jan, which continued until 25 Jan (JCn, BP, ph. JWi, m. ob.). These are the first documented reports of this species in Coconino Co. Another interesting species discovered at Picture Canyon on the Flagstaff CBC, an American Dipper lingered through the end of the season (JCn, BP, m. ob.). A notable concentration of American Robins showed up at Elden Spring in early February. Approximately 400 were in the area 6-7 Feb, with about 100 remaining by 11 Feb (JWi). Northern Mockingbird is primarily a summer resident in the region, so one on the Flagstaff CBC 1 Jan (PKo) was notable.

Casual as a winter visitor in Arizona, two Lapland Longspurs frequented Babbitt Tank east of Flagstaff this season. The first was discovered 9 Dec (JCn, JWi), and two birds were seen 12 Dec (ph. ErH, KM). The last report of two birds was 29 Jan (TL, BO), but at least one continued through the end of the season. These birds were in the company of a flock of up to 75 Chestnut-collared Longspurs, itself a rarely reported species in the region (JCn, CLR, m. ob.). The paucity of longspur reports from n. Arizona may be linked more with the difficulty of birding the region in winter than with the actual rarity of the birds.

Possibly the first winter record for n. Arizona, a female Lark Bunting was on House Rock Valley Rd. 6 Jan (ph. SPu). This report follows three unusually late fall migrants in the region last November. White-throated Sparrows are rare but regular transients and winter visitors in Arizona. One spent the winter in a Timberline, Flagstaff yard 30 Dec + (BCo). Rare in the Grand Canyon region in winter, a male Lesser Goldfinch visited Tusayan 13 Dec (BGa). Winter finches made a decent showing in the Flagstaff area this winter. Numbers of Cassin’s Finches increased in December, and fairly large flocks were seen throughout Flagstaff through the end of the season, with groups up to 90 reported (m. ob.). Evening Grosbeaks were much less common, as is typical, although flocks of up to 30 visited Timberline in February (D. Poleyquiva, m. ob.).

Navajo and Hopi Nations

Compiled by Jason Wilder

Abbreviations: Grand Canyon National Park (GCNP)

A steady trickle of reports came in this winter from the region. Uncommon waterfowl were reported throughout the season near Page and downstream along the Colorado R. The Page STP hosted three Snow Geese 1 Dec (SPu); three, possibly the same individuals, were also observed on the Page golf course 4 Feb (SPu). A single Greater White-fronted Goose was reported at the Page STP 1 Jan (SPu); possibly the same individual was also seen at the Page golf course 4 Feb (SPu). Two Tundra Swans were observed on L. Powell 4 Feb (SPu). Snow Goose, Greater White-fronted Goose, and Tundra Swan are rare in the region, with winter reports of each on a less-than-annual basis. Barrow's Goldeneye winters annually along the Colorado R. but often goes unreported. Five were reported 24 Jan, and another four 25 Jan at various points along the river within GCNP (J. Henningson). Red-breasted Merganser is seldom reported from the Navajo-Hopi region, making the observation of one on L. Powell 4 Feb (SPu) notable. Pacific Loon is casual to rare in n. Arizona and is most often reported as a fall migrant. A single individual observed on L. Powell 4 Feb (ph. SPu) is an outstanding winter record.

Two Herring Gulls, a rare winter visitor to the region, were reported at the Page STP 23 Dec (ph. SPu). Black-billed Magpie is resident within a limited region in the far ne. portion of the state but is seldom reported. Two were observed at Teec Nos Pos 25 Jan (CLR). A Northern Shrike was reported along Highway 160 near Black Mesa Junction 5 Jan (CLR) and another individual identified as a Northern Shrike was along Highway 89A north of Bitter Springs 6 Jan (JWi).

Although more common farther south, Orange-crowned Warbler is rare in winter in the Navajo-Hopi region. As such, one observed at Paria Beach 1 Jan (SPu) was notable.

A single White-throated Sparrow, which is a rare transient and winter visitor to the region, was found at the Cameron Seep 3-6 Jan (CLR, JWi, BGa, JCn).

Yavapai

Compiled by Troy Corman, Roger Radd, and Carl Tomoff

Continuing from the fall, a Greater White-fronted Goose was last sighted at Willow L. 6 Dec (CT). An exceptional flock of 18 Greater White-fronted Geese resided at the Prescott airport recharge ponds 5-21 Feb and may have been related to spring movement (SDr, S&SB, CT). An imm. Snow Goose that commuted between Willow and Watson lakes 5-13 Feb was usually associated with Canada Geese (StB, CT et al.). Another noted at the Prescott airport recharge ponds 21 Feb was probably the same individual (StB, CT). Casual in the Prescott area, an adult Ross’s Goose was at Willow L. 23-28 Dec (CT, DM). An imm. Ross’s Goose grazed with American Wigeons at Antelope Hills Golf Course, Prescott 1 Feb (CT et al.). A total of 26 Snow and 1025 Canada Geese reported on the Camp Verde CBC 2 Jan were high numbers for anywhere in the region during the winter (fide BCo). Casual winter visitors, an adult and two imm. Tundra Swans commuted between Willow and Watson lakes throughout December (CT, S&SB). Another three Tundra Swans were noted during the Jerome CBC 19 Dec (RHu).

Rare but possibly increasing winter visitors, four Cinnamon Teal were reported on the Camp Verde CBC 2 Jan (fide BCo). Also an adult male Cinnamon Teal foraged at Prescott’s Sundog wastewater treatment ponds 4-12 Jan (CT) and a pair at Willow L. 18 Feb were likely early migrants (S&SB). The Sedona CBC (26 Dec) tallied 334 Canvasback which is an exceptional number for that count (fide DH). Common Goldeneyes are casual winter visitors to the Verde Valley so one detected during the Jerome CBC 19 Jan was of note (fide BFei). Hooded Mergansers are also casual to rare winter visitors in the Verde Valley so of note was one on the Sedona CBC 26 Dec (BCo) and three on the Camp Verde CBC 2 Jan (RR). Participants in the Prescott CBC (22 Dec), documented an exceptional concentration of nearly 7000 ducks of 15 species (m. ob.).

The count of 184 Eared Grebes during the Prescott CBC 22 Dec was a record high for the count (m. ob.). Considered a casual visitor at best, a late Clark’s Grebe foraged at Willow L. 11-23 Dec (DM, CT) . A solitary Neotropic Cormorant at Watson L. 19-23 Dec became the first in winter for Yavapai Co. and lingered to be included on the Prescott CBC (CT, DM). Typically a casual winter visitor, the last wintering Great Egret was observed at Willow L. 2 Jan (S&SB). Four very late White-faced Ibis foraged at Willow L. 15 Dec (DM) with at least one remaining there through 23 Dec (CT, S&SB). 

An early spring Turkey Vulture was reported in Williamson Valley 27 Feb (fide EMo) and an Osprey noted 5 Dec at Willow L. was a very late transient for the Prescott area (KAr). Now a rare but regular winter visitor to the Verde Valley, another Osprey was detected during the Jerome CBC 19 Jan (fide BFei). A congregation of 11 Bald Eagles in all age classes at Lynx L.23 Jan was exceptional (CT). Continuing from the fall season, two Common Black-Hawks successfully wintered in the Cornville-Page Springs area as they have done occasionally in the past (RR, ph. ErH). A family group of three adults and two imm. Harris’s Hawks remained close to their 2010 breeding area near Dewey through the period (CT). A Zone-tailed Hawk at Lynx L.16 Feb was remarkably early for the region (RHu). 

Common Moorhens are casual winter visitors in the Verde Valley, so one detected at a wastewater treatment pond during the Sedona CBC 26 Dec was a good find (BCo). Casual to rare winter visitors in the Prescott area, two Spotted Sandpipers teetered below Watson L. dam in Granite Dells during the Prescott CBC 22 Dec (DM). Lingering from the fall, 32 Long-billed Dowitchers were counted at Willow L. through 23 Dec (CT, SDr) with fewer remaining well into January (CT et al.). 

Rare but likely increasing winter visitors in the Prescott area, two White-winged Doves visited feeders amidst throngs of Eurasian Collared-Doves and Mourning Doves in a residential area south of Willow L. 22 Dec (CT). Another seven were detected on the Jerome CBC 19 Dec (fide BFei) and a single on the Camp Verde CBC 2 Jan (fide BCo). A very late female Broad-tailed Hummingbird was first noted visiting feeders in the Williams Valley area northwest of Prescott 11 Nov and was photographed 24 Dec (A&NS). The last time it was seen was on a snowy day, 30 Dec, the same day two aggressive Anna's Hummingbirds moved in.

Two Lewis’s Woodpeckers visited feeders in pine-oak forest at Walker southeast of Prescott throughout the period (V. Morhous). First noted during the fall, numerous Gila Woodpeckers were observed in the Prescott area, which is higher than normal elevation for the species in Arizona. One was noted in chaparral south of Prescott (CT) and another was found along Granite Cr. in Prescott 22 Dec (BPr). At least one of two Gila Woodpeckers that wintered at Granite Basin was still there 11 Feb (DM). On 5 Feb, a pair of Gilas was located at Quail Run Golf Course near Dewey (CT) and another at Prescott Country Club (CT). Finally, a female Gila visited feeders at Granite Oaks during February (A. Man). 

A remarkably late date for a transient anywhere in the U.S., an Olive-sided Flycatcher was discovered 6 Dec (KO, SuB) and photographed 7 Dec (StB) in pine-oak forest near the Highland Center of Natural History north of Lynx L. This is likely the first documented winter record for this flycatcher in Arizona. Casual during winter in Prescott region, a late Hammond’s Flycatcher foraged in riparian vegetation at Granite Basin 12-13 Dec (CT, BH, DM). A wintering individual was photographed at Page Springs 8 Jan-12 Feb (GBo, ErH). Casual to rare winter visitors in central Arizona, a Gray Flycatcher was detected on the Camp Verde CBC 2 Jan (JWi). A Dusky Flycatcher at Granite Basin 11 Dec (DM) was likely a late transient while one at Bubbling Ponds Fish Hatchery on the Sedona CBC 26 Dec (RR) and another on the Camp Verde CBC 2 Jan would be considered casual winter visitors (R. Hart). 

Cassin’s Vireos are casual but possibly increasing winter visitors, so one detected at Bubbling Ponds Fish Hatchery during the Sedona CBC 26 Dec (RR) and remaining through at least 12 Feb (ErH) and another at Bull Pen Ranch on the Camp Verde CBC 2 Jan (TL et al.) were noteworthy. Rare but regular winter visitors, two Pacific Wrens noted 11 Dec at Granite Basin (DM) wintered there (DM, CT et al.) with one last noted 13 Feb (CT). Another likely wintering Pacific Wren was relocated in Granite Dells on 4 Dec (MiR). Exceptional any time of year in the region, a Gray Catbird was discovered eating hackberries at Bubbling Ponds Fish Hatchery during the Sedona CBC 26 Dec and was likely the premier find of the count (RR). Typically a casual winter visitor, a secretive Brown Thrasher at Granite Oaks northwest of Prescott reappeared at a feeder during snowstorms throughout the period (A. Man) for its third consecutive winter at this location. A pair of resident Curve-billed Thrashers at Diamond Valley carried nest materials as early as 14 Feb with singing beginning in early Feb (JMg). 

Casual during winter at Prescott, 4-6 Orange-crowned Warblers were found at two residential feeders and in riparian vegetation in Granite Dells (DM, RHu, CT, MiR) between 23-28 Dec. The Black-and white Warbler reported 9 Nov (MN) was observed intermittently in a tall cottonwood grove at Willow L. through 22 Dec (DKe, SD, M. Shamonsky). Another discovered near Page Springs on the Sedona CBC 26 Dec (RR) was observed intermittently through 22 Jan (m. ob.). Common Yellowthroats are casual winter visitors in the Prescott area, so one discovered in Granite Dells during the Prescott CBC 22 Dec and lingering through the period was noteworthy (CT). 

One of few winter records for Prescott, a Green-tailed Towhee, first reported 9 Jan, remained through the remainder of the period at the airport recharge ponds (SDr). Casually reported during the winter in the region, four Lark Buntings were noted during the Camp Verde CBC 2 Jan (JWi). A Grasshopper Sparrow in a mixed species sparrow flock at the recharge ponds near the Prescott airport 5 Dec may have been the same bird reported there 17 Oct (CT). Another was found during the Camp Verde CBC 2 Jan (JGra). This sparrow is a casual winter resident in the region. Rare but regular winter residents in Arizona, at least four Fox Sparrows (Slate-colored) were found in dense chaparral south of Prescott 23 Dec (CT). Swamp Sparrows are rare winter visitors and always worthy of reporting. One was detected on the Sedona CBC 26 Dec (RR). Yet another rare but regular winter resident, two White-throated Sparrows were found in Prescott with one along Granite Cr. 9 Dec (DM) and another at a feeder during the Prescott CBC 22 Dec (RDue). Casual in the Prescott area, a Yellow-eyed Junco was found in a mixed junco flock in pine-oak forest at White Spar CG in south Prescott 4 Jan (MiR).

One of the many highlights of the Prescott CBC 22 Dec was the discovery of a very late Black-headed Grosbeak visiting feeders in an oak and pinyon pine residential neighborhood (A. Winkelmeyer). Irregular visitors to the region, solitary Evening Grosbeaks were observed at Granite Basin 14 Jan and 23 Jan (CT, SD) and at least five were there 13 Feb (CT). A flock of 10-15 Evening Grosbeaks remained near Butte Cr. in west Prescott from mid-Feb+ (R. Gerdes, fide DI). 

White Mountains

Compiled by Eric Hough

Abbreviations: Mogollon Rim (Rim)

With the La Niña weather pattern this winter, the White Mountains region saw below average temperatures and snowfall. The lack of snow cover in some locations in this region during most of the season allowed some species to linger above the Rim. Drastic changes in weather conditions drove hundreds of Pine Siskins to feeders at some locations. A severe cold snap in early February likely killed some small-bodied birds in the region, as was observed in other parts of the state. As a result of the below freezing temperatures, most waterfowl observed were early in December or at the end of February when there were milder temperatures and more open water. The Timber Mesa CBC 18 Dec had fewer species than in previous years, rounding out the day with only 40. As is usual with most winters in the region, despite few birders venturing out into less than optimal weather, a few avian surprises were discovered.

Rare winter visitors to the region, three Snow Geese were a nice find on Becker L. near Springerville 17 Dec (ErH, ElH). Tundra Swans are also rare, but annual, winter visitors to the region. One adult was present at Jacques Marsh in Pinetop-Lakeside 12-14 Feb (LL, ph. BHo, ElH).

Apparently more widespread and regular 15-20 years ago, particularly in n. Arizona, Rough-legged Hawks have become rare in winter even in this region. Therefore, two observations this winter were noteworthy with one light morph adult along AZ 273 northwest of Sunrise L. 27 Dec (LL) and a second-year bird along US60 west of Eagar 9 Feb (CMc).

Sandhill Cranes are a casual vagrant to n. Arizona. Therefore, two cranes along the Little Colorado R. near Woodruff 16 Jan (CLR et al.) were an exceptional discovery. Outside of the continuously summering individual at Luna L. in Apache Co., there are only a handful of old records for the region with very few in winter. Woodruff has one of the few large agricultural areas in the region, which makes it a good location to check in the future for wintering cranes. Wilson’s Snipes are a rare and local winter resident above the Rim, concentrating where unfrozen water exists. Three snipes were encountered in Greer 9 Feb (CMc).

Due to their sparse distribution and nomadic behavior, Long-eared Owls are uncommonly encountered throughout the state. One of these owls was discovered injured just east of Show Low 31 Dec (B&BH) and was subsequently rehabilitated and released by members of the White Mtn. Audubon Society 5 Jan. Rare in winter across the state (but a banner year for the species), one imm. Yellow-bellied Sapsucker came to a yard in Heber 11 Jan (ElH, BHo). By default, immature sapsuckers retaining brown plumage in winter in the state are this species rather than Red-naped: young Red-naped Sapsuckers, but not Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers, generally molt before reaching their wintering grounds.

Longspurs are rare to uncommon winter visitors to the region, so any reports are noteworthy. The second-rarest longspur in the state, a flyover Lapland Longspur was heard with a flock of Horned Larks at McHood Park at Clear Creek Res. 12 Dec (ErH). Documentation has been submitted to ABC. More frequently encountered during migration in the region, 37 Chestnut-collared Longspurs were observed at Becker L. at Springerville 17 Dec (ErH, ElH). There are few winter records for the region for this longspur.

Besides the common White-crowned and Sage Sparrows, other sparrow species detected on the Colorado Plateau in winter are decidedly rare to uncommon. A flock of 14-20 Brewer’s Sparrows was an interesting find near Woodruff 16-17 Jan (CLR, ErH, ElH). Also at Woodruff were four Brewer’s Blackbirds 17 Jan (ErH, ElH), which occur rarely at agricultural areas in the region in winter.

Pine Siskins occasionally undergo irruptions or aggregate in larger numbers in winter. This season saw exceptional numbers at some localities, with a high count of at least 250 birds at a Heber yard 19 Feb (ElH, BHo).

Southwest

Compiled by Henry Detwiler

Overall, this winter was a good one for both species and numbers of birds. The Martinez Lake-Yuma CBC, centered at Imperial Dam, had a total of 131 species, the highest in over 15 years. (This count also includes portions of Imperial Co., California.)  Record high numbers were reported for six species: Northern Shoveler (612), Ruddy Duck (669), Pied-billed Grebe (156), Rock Pigeon (107), Great Horned Owl (20), and Tree Swallow (3176). However, some sparrow numbers were down. For example, no Brewer's Sparrows were recorded on the CBC, which is very unusual.

An exceptional count anywhere in the state, 44 Tundra Swans were reported at Cibola NWR 26 Nov (S. Rimer), with at least 15 remaining through 4 Dec (m. ob.). Another high number of 19 Tundra Swans was reported flying down the river north of Blythe 16 Jan (A. & V. Howe, B. & S. Steele, S. Koonce, and DVP).

A rare female Black Scoter was below Parker Dam 10 Dec (ph. R. Fridell). It was last reported from this location 21 Jan (DVP) and likely moved north to L. Havasu joining another bird already there. Only three Barrow’s Goldeneyes were reported, all at Parker Dam 12 Dec (DVP, LHar).

A very rare Yellow-billed Loon, first seen at Parker 15 Jan, continued being observed intermittently through 12 Feb (DVP, LHar, m. ob.); it was likely the same one reported later above Parker Dam in Mohave Co. Rare, but showing up with greater frequency, a young Neotropic Cormorant was at Headgate Rock Dam, Parker 15 Jan-13 Feb (DVP, m. ob.) An adult was photographed at Headgate Rock Dam 19 Jan (ph. JSm). An adult was also located below Parker Dam 26 Dec (LHar, DVP) and reported again 4 Feb (DVP, LHar).

Uncommon to rare in winter, two Bonaparte’s Gulls were at Bill Williams NWR 2 Dec (DVP, LHar). Zone-tailed Hawks are rare to casual in the region so one over downtown Yuma 31 Jan (ph. D. Sussman) was a great find. Another bird that is rare in the winter in the region, a Red-shouldered Hawk was at ‘Ahakhav Tribal Preserve, south of Parker 16 Jan (ph. JWe).

In decline over the past few years, only one Ruddy Ground-Dove was located; this one northeast of Wellton 13 Dec (ph. DVP, LHar).

A continuing Red-breasted x Red-naped Sapsucker from the fall was reported at ‘Ahakhav Tribal Preserve. It was last observed 13 Feb (ph. LHar). Another bird there also appeared to be a Sphyrapicus ruber x nuchalis hybrid 26 Jan-13 Feb (LHar, ph. DVP). The bird appeared similar to a daggeti but had a golden hue to the narrow rows on the back (indicating S. r. ruber), extensive black on the face (including the crown), and a slight amount on the breast. A rare juv. Broad-billed Hummingbird continued at a hummingbird feeder in Yuma 19 Oct-15 Jan (HD, SDe). A bit early, a Rufous Hummingbird was at a Yuma feeder 27 Feb (HD, SDe). An uncommon wintering White-winged Dove was seen nine miles northeast of Wellton 27 Nov (PL, m. ob.).

Gray Flycatcher, uncommon some winters and rare in others, was found at three locations. One was at Imperial NWR 18 Dec (HD), a second at Mosquito Flat, Bill Williams NWR 29 Dec (DVP), and a third was at ‘Ahakhav Tribal Preserve 13 Feb (HD, m. ob.). A vagrant Dusky-capped Flycatcher was first located and photographed at the Parker Oasis 8 Jan+ (DVP, LHar, m. ob.). A casual Eastern Phoebe was seen nine miles northeast of Wellton 27 Nov+ (PL, m. ob.). The rare Thick-billed Kingbird returned for the ninth consecutive year to the Yuma Main Drain and was first spotted this year 14 Nov (HD).

A Bell’s Vireo was at the ‘Ahakhav Tribal Preserve 26 Jan-13 Feb (ph. LHar, DVP).The first migrant northbound Violet-Green Swallow individual was at Cocopah RV Resort 27 Feb (HD). Rare, but regular, five Golden-crowned Kinglets were located at Mosquito Flat of the Bill Williams NWR 29 Dec (DVP).

A casual Varied Thrush was photographed on a lawn of the Yuma Proving Grounds 19 Dec (ph. HD, SDe, MMc). Rare in the region away from Kofa NWR, the continuing Curve-billed Thrasher northeast of Wellton was last reported 13 Dec (DVP, LHar). The dry rattle of an unidentified longspur was heard in the Parker Valley 21 Jan (DVP), which is intriguing as there have been no longspur reports in Yuma Co. in the past 20 years.

A rare but regular wintering species, a Yellow Warbler was seen in the “College Acres” neighborhood of Yuma off 5th Ave E, 13 Dec (DVP, LHar). Another Yellow Warbler was seen at the Animal Farm west of Wellton 3 Jan (S. Williams, JG). Rare but regular vagrants, Black-and-white Warblers were located at Mosquito Flat of the Bill Williams NWR 1 Dec (DVP), at Betty’s Kitchen 19 Dec (AB, HBor), and on the east side of the Yuma West Wetlands 7 Jan (AB, HBor). The Black-and-white Warblers at Bill Williams and the Yuma West Wetlands continued though the end of the reporting period (m. ob.). A rare but regular vagrant Northern Parula, an accidental-in-winter Nashville Warbler, and a rare but regular winter vagrant American Redstart were present at Imperial NWR 18 Dec (HD, AB, HBor). An accidental vagrant to the LCR, a Prairie Warbler was spotted and documented near Kohen Ranch, Bill Williams NWR, 29 Dec (LHar).

Casual to rare anywhere in Arizona in winter, a Dickcissel was located northeast of Wellton 24 Dec (JKell, ph. BJS). Two vagrant juv. Streak-backed Orioles, first documented in November, continued through the winter and were last observed northeast of Wellton in mid-February (m. ob.).

South-Central

Compiled by Steve Ganley

Abbreviations: Boyce Thompson Arboretum SP (BTA), Gila Bend STP (GBSTP) Gila Bend Power Plant (GBPP), Gilbert Water Ranch (GWR), Glendale Recharge Ponds (GRP), Granite Reef Dam (GRD), Hassayampa River Preserve (HRP), Morgan City Wash (MCW), Phoenix Aquatic Bird Survey (PABS)

Winter weather was generally mild with less than average rain. However, for three consecutive nights in February a hard freeze damaged flowering plants and killed insects, putting a strain on some bird species. There were several reports of hummingbirds, for example, that did not survive the freezing nights in residential yards. Seventy participants of the annual PABS, 15 Jan, counted nearly 51,000 wild aquatic birds wintering in the urban lakes, ponds, and canals of the greater Phoenix area.

The usual variety of geese wintered in the region. Typically a rare but regular winter visitor among flocks of other geese, Greater White-fronted Geese were found in above normal numbers in the region. Four were counted at the new Full-scale Tres Rios Wetlands across from the Phoenix wastewater treatment facility 20 Dec (TC, TLew) and two to three were observed at the GWR 17 Feb+ (DPe). Likely including some of the previously noted geese, a total of 16 were found during the PABS 15 Jan (fide TC) with one in El Mirage, 11 in Phoenix, one in Scottsdale, and three in Sun Lakes. An impressive 3900 Canada Geese were counted during the PABS. There was only one Cackling Goose report, of two birds in Avondale 30 Dec (ph. ST) with at least one of the birds still present 29 Jan (TDeB). This goose is still considered a rare but regular winter visitor in the state. An intriguing report of a Trumpeter Swan from a resort in Litchfield Park 19 Dec was considered an escaped captive bird. Locals said the bird had been there for about a month. The swan allowed close approach and was tagged with an unknown type of tag that did not conform to any official banding organization. Rare, but regular, a young Tundra Swan was reported by several observers along the Salt R. near the Granite Reef picnic area 2-26 Jan (JMil, MWa, L&KS).

Sparse winter visitors in recent years, 39 Black-bellied Whistling-Ducks were found at the new Full-scale Tres Rios Wetlands just west of the Phoenix wastewater treatment facility 20 Dec (TC, TLew), with at least 26 remaining to be counted during the PABS 15 Jan (JRz). Usually several Eurasian Wigeon winter in the Phoenix metro area, particularly in Scottsdale, but this year only one was found on the PABS. The male was found at Sun Lakes 15 Jan-18 Feb (ph. TLew, ph. PD). Approximately 25% of all the birds counted during the PABS 15 Jan were American Wigeons with an impressive 12,766 total (fide TC). Greatly increasing as a winter visitor in s. Arizona, a record high of 73 Blue-winged Teal were counted during the Phoenix-Tres Rios CBC 20 Dec (fide DPo). The (Eurasian) Green-winged Teal, not recognized as a full species by the A.O.U., is accidental in the state. A male was found 7 Jan at the Tempe Marsh (MWa) where it continued through at least 27 Feb (MWeb). There are two previous records from the state, one two years ago from this same location likely pertains to the same individual. The bird of the season (and likely the year in the state) had to be the imm. male Baikal Teal found at the GWR 2 Dec (ph. GN). This will be a first state record for this very rare North American stray if accepted by the ABC. The teal was last seen 10 Dec. A female White-winged Scoter was at the Gila Bend STP 4-8 Dec (PL, ph. BGro). Black Scoter is the rarest of the three species of scoter to be found in Arizona but sightings may be increasing. A first-year male was found on Saguaro L. 21 Jan during an aquatic bird survey, but unfortunately the bird was only accessible by boat (ph. TC). A total of 68 Common Goldeneyes on the Phoenix-Tres Rios CBC 20 Dec was an impressive number for the region (fide DPo). Red-breasted Mergansers are rare but regular winter visitors to the region. One was observed at the Lower River Road ponds near Palo Verde 5 Dec-23 Jan (DPo, MHe et al.), one at Fountain Hill L. 11 Dec (TC, MV, JJ), and another was at Bartlett Res. 17 Jan (TC).

Reports of Horned Grebe seem to be increasing during the last couple of years and this season the species was reported from several locations. The Phoenix-Tres Rios CBC reported one 20 Dec (fide DPo), Canyon L. had two birds 22 Dec (SU), and one each was found at L. Pleasant 13 Jan (SHo), at Bartlett L. 18 Jan (TC), and on the PABS on a Gilbert golf course 15 Jan+ (MV). Brown Pelicans are regular in the fall but they don’t usually spend the entire winter. This year up to three birds were in the area of Tempe Town L. all season (m. ob.) and a single bird was at Painted Rock Dam 17 Dec (CBab). After a dramatic increase during the past few years, the count of both Neotropic and Double-crested Cormorants during the PABS declined noticeably with 852 Neotropic and 644 Double-crested tallied. It is believed a significant portion of the population moved just downstream along the lower Salt and Gila River drainage and outside the urban count area. A Roseate Spoonbill first found in the fall continued to play hide-and-seek with birders as it gradually moved from Goodyear and southwest Phoenix west to the Palo Verde area by late December where it remained through the season (m. ob.).

Black Vultures continue to increase west of Phoenix and are now branching off into the area of northeast Maricopa Co. along the Salt and Verde rivers east of Mesa. Two were seen 6 Feb in the area of Phon D. Sutton Recreation Area (C&SW), and perhaps the same two were near the Verde R. Bridge 20 Feb (EBo). Gray Hawk is rare in the region at any season and so a sighting during the HRP CBC on 18 Dec was unexpected.(CSm). Rare but apparently increasing as a winter visitor to residential areas in the greater Phoenix area, a Zone-tailed Hawk was observed in Scottsdale 14 Jan-1 Feb (WT, BIs), and another was noted in the North Mountain area of Phoenix 12 Feb (T. Jones). The very rare, light-morph Harlan’s Hawk arrived for its fourth winter in the Arlington Valley in December and was still noted through at least mid-January (MHe). Casual winter visitor to the region, a juv. Crested Caracara was found near Buckeye 13 Feb (MHe).

Casual to rare winter visitors, a Lesser Yellowlegs was detected among Greaters during the PABS 15 Jan at the GRP (ph. MHe). Western Sandpipers are rare but regular winter visitors in very small numbers in the region and so are always worthy of reporting. One was observed along the Agua Fria R. bed near Camelback Road 5 Dec (DPo et al.) and may have moved to the nearby GRP where it was detected 15-30 Jan (MHe, TC). Another was discovered at the GWR 5 Feb (TDeB). Another rare but regular winter shorebird visitor is the Dunlin. One was at the GWR 4 Dec-18 Feb (MSc, m. ob.) One individual was noted at GRP 5 Dec-30 Jan (MWeb, MHe, TC). Bonaparte’s Gulls are casually reported during the winter in the region so of note were seven at Painted Rock Dam 17 Dec (CBab) and another on the Gila River CBC 28 Dec (fide TC).

A first winter Black-legged Kittiwake was discovered during an aquatic bird survey at Saguaro L. 21 Jan in an area not easy to reach without a boat (ph. TC). A sighting was managed the next day after a long hike but no further reports came in after 22 Jan (TDeB). Currently rare and local, but increasing during the winter in the region, a record high of 10 White-winged Doves was counted on the Gila River CBC 28 Dec (fide TC). Likely a rare local resident in Maricopa Co., Ruddy Ground-Dove numbers seem to go up and down like a yo-yo from one year to the next. This year up to three birds, first found in the fall at the GWR, were around with at least one all season (PMo, m. ob.). Two additional Ruddy Ground-Doves were found during the Phoenix-Tres Rios CBC 20 Dec (CFi) and another group was found near Palo Verde 26-28 Dec and ranged in size from two to nine individuals (MHe, TC, CFi). Unusual in winter, three Lesser Nighthawks were reported: Tres Rios 10 Jan (THld), Scottsdale 11 Jan (WT), and Papago Park 26 Feb (MWeb).

Away from the BTA where they are resident, Broad-billed Hummingbirds are still considered a rare visitor, but increasingly seen in all seasons in the region. One Broad-billed Hummingbird was in Tempe 2 Dec for over a week (JJu) and another was in Scottsdale 7-19 Feb (AS). Acorn Woodpeckers continue to hang out in the lowlands with one on the Phoenix-Tres Rios CBC 20 Dec (fide DPo), a continuing pair on the ASU campus 27-28 Dec (L. Landrum), one in Phoenix (MMe), and another in Mesa 29 Dec (JMil). Rare winter visitor in the lowlands, a female Williamson’s Sapsucker was at the BTA 28 Nov-15 Jan (GN m. ob.). Typically a rare, but regular winter visitor, it was apparently an exceptional winter for Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers across Arizona. One was found along the Verde R on Ft. McDowell Tribal lands 11-16 Dec (ph. TC) and another was along the old Beeline Hwy. near Sunflower 26 Jan (TDeB, JKo). AYellow-shafted form of the Northern Flicker was discovered in Phoenix 1 Jan (RFo).

Three Eastern Phoebes were found this season. One at the HRP 4 Dec where it remained through the season (MO); one along the Verde R. 11-14 Dec (ph. TC, MV, JJ); and another at the GWR, which was seen off and on all season (ph. BGri). Outstanding for the winter season, was a Dusky-capped Flycatcher discovered at the GWR 7-19 Dec (ph. JY, SG). It was a good year for Ash-throated Flycatchers wintering in the region. A record high of 26 was counted on the Gila River CBC 28 Dec (fide TC). Bell’s Vireo is a casual winter visitor in the region and one continuing from last season at the BTA spent much of the winter there (JBa, ph. M. Grube). American Crows are casually reported in the region, so of special note was a count of 20 in the pecan groves on Ft. McDowell tribal lands during the Salt Verde Rivers CBC 14 Dec (DHe).  

Tree and Barn Swallows are basically rare and irregular wintering species in the region, so of note were 6 to10 Tree and two Barn detected along the Gila R. near Palo Verde 27-28 Dec (TC). A Tree Swallow 22 Jan at Saguaro L. (TDeB) may have been an early migrant. However, the first obvious northbound migrant Tree Swallows reported were three noted in the Arlington Valley 18 Feb (MHe). Early migrating Violet-green Swallows were seen at Saguaro L. 9 Feb (JMil) and Cliff Swallows were in Glendale by 21 Feb (MHe).

This is the first winter season after the split of Winter Wren into Pacific Wren and (Eastern) Winter Wren. It seemed that both species were found in higher than usual numbers. A Pacific Wren was found on the HRP CBC 19 Dec (BIs), ), another along the Verde R. on Ft. McDowell tribal lands 14 Dec (TC), with yet another Pacific Wren at the Robbin’s Butte WA 31 Dec (MWeb). A Winter Wren was reported from the GRD 30 Dec through the end of the season (TDeB). Also at the HRP was a Rufous-backed Robin first sighted 2 Dec (MO), which remained off and on until at least 16 Feb (MWeb). Gray Catbird nests in a few areas in the White Mtns. region and are rare in winter across Arizona. A Gray Catbird in a residential area in Ahwatukee was first found 2 Dec and remained to the end of the season (ph. P&GH). Another rare winter visitor, a Brown Thrasher first found in mid-November (DHe) remained the entire season at the Desert Botanical Gardens in Phoenix (m. ob.). Although likely annual, Chestnut-collared Longspurs are casually reported in the region during the winter so of note was one on the Gila River CBC 28 Dec (CD).

Winter warbler sightings of note included a casual Tennessee Warbler and a rare but regular Northern Parula from the Tempe Marsh 9 Jan (DVP). A second Northern Parula and a Yellow Warbler were found in the fall and continued at the GWR 20 Dec (SHo, m. ob.). A third Northern Parula was found along the Gila R. near Palo Verde 27 Dec (TC). Nearly annually reported in the region during the winter, a Chestnut-sided Warbler was found at Rio Salado, Phoenix13 Dec (TDeB) where it remained until at least 4 Jan (m. ob.). In the rare but regular winter visitor category, a Black-and-white Warbler was observed 20 Dec along the Salt R. just west of 91st Ave. in Phoenix (TC), at the Tempe Marsh 8-9 Jan (TC), and another spent the entire season at the GWR (BGri). A Wilson’s Warbler was at Rio Salado 17 Jan (TC). In the past this species was infrequently found during the winter anywhere in Arizona, but has recently become a rare winter visitor.

Grasshopper Sparrows are likely rare winter visitors to the region, but due to their secretive nature are casually reported. Therefore, one reported on the Phoenix-Tres Rios CBC 20 Dec was of note (fide DPo). Swamp Sparrows are rare but regular in the region during the winter so of note was one at GWR 3-4 Dec (JHol, PL), one in the GRP area 5 Dec (DPo et al.), one on the Salt Verde Rivers CBC 14 Dec. (fide KR), one at the Gila Bend wastewater ponds 17 Dec (CBab), one along the Gila R. near Palo Verde 27 Dec (TC), and another at the Arlington WA 29-31 Jan (DPo). Another rare but regular winter visitor to Arizona, a White-throated Sparrow was in a Scottsdale yard 21 Dec-24 Feb (WT). Likely a late migrant, a female Summer Tanager was heard at the GWR 10 Dec (SG) and seen there 13 Dec (ph. DSt). Casually reported in the winter in the region, a Western Tanager was noted on the Superior CBC 26 Dec (fide CD). Probably a late migrant, a Blue Grosbeak was at the GWR 3 Dec (TDeB, ph. DVP, LHar). A female Painted Bunting was a good find at Rio Salado 10 Jan, the second time in the last few winters one has been found at this location (RDi). Back for its second winter, a male Orchard Oriole was in a residential yard in Ahwatukee 2 Dec+ (ph. P&GH). Although irregularly detected, a Streak-backed Oriole was a very exciting yard bird in Scottsdale 27 Dec+ (ph. MV).

Gila

Compiled by Brian Ison

Few bird sightings were reported from Gila Co. this winter. A series of storms bringing colder than normal temperatures, heavy snow, and rain may have contributed to the lack of reports. Roosevelt L. was about 90% full and San Carlos L. stood at 12%.

Although waterfowl diversity was unusually low this winter at the lakes and reservoirs, there were some exceptional concentrations of several species. For example, a high number of 347 American Wigeons were tallied on the Payson CBC 18 Dec (m. ob.). The annual Roosevelt L. Aquatic Bird Survey recorded 12 species of waterfowl and 1350 individual ducks and geese 14 Jan (TC, BB, et al.). This was a low total compared to some previous years. For example, in 2008 5600 ducks and geese were counted. A nice total of 950 Northern Shovelers were seen, accounting for about 70% of the total waterfowl. Rare transients and winter visitors, two Common Loons were notable (TC et al.). A single Eared Grebe was found, the first ever seen on the survey although they frequently winter just downstream on Apache and Saguaro lakes. More abundant aquatic birds noted on the survey were 400+ Clark’s and 3000+ Western Grebes (TC, BB, et al.). One pair of Clark’s Grebes was seen with two downy young indicating late fall nesting (fide TC). Rare winter visitors, three American White Pelicans (BB et al.) and a high number of 22 Bald Eagles–seven adults and 15 immatures (between one and four years old)–were recorded (TC, BB, et al.).

The Payson CBC 18 Dec recorded a high count of 58 Acorn Woodpeckers (m. ob.). A single female Gila Woodpecker was seen in a Pine yard well away from its typical habitat 5 Dec (ph. BIs), probably the same individual seen 25 Nov (JE). A rare transient and winter visitor, a female Williamson’s Sapsucker was spotted in Pine at a ponderosa pine sap well 4 Dec (BIs). A Williamson’s was seen at this same tree about three years ago. The Payson CBC also had a high count of 91 Mexican Jays, an unusually low count of 25 Western Bluebirds, and high counts of 169 European Starlings and 405 Brewer’s Blackbirds (m. ob.).

Southeast

Compiled by Mark Stevenson

Abbreviations: EOP (Environmental Operations Park), HTM (Holy Trinity Monastery, Saint David), SGL (Santa Gertrudis Lane, Tumacacori), Sweetwater (Sweetwater Wetlands, Tucson), Whitewater (Whitewater Draw Wildlife Area), Willcox (Lake Cochise and Twin Lakes Golf Course, Willcox)

The expected consequences of the La Niña phenomenon materialized dramatically in the region. January provided only a trace of rain at Tucson and, officially, it was the 11th driest winter on record, though as usual some areas received more precipitation than the official station at the airport. The season ended with most of the region in severe drought conditions. Despite four more days of freezing temperatures than is average, it was the 34th warmest winter on record in Tucson. There were five days with temperatures of 25º F or lower, which is four more days than average. New Years Day saw record cold and February 3 and 4 provided 18 straight hours of freezing temperature at Tucson, an unusually harsh cold snap. Higher elevation locations saw much lower temperatures with some birders reporting lows to 0º F at their homes. The amount of damage done to native vegetation remains to be seen, but oaks and desert hackberry showed damage in many areas. Many nonnative palm trees, which provide nesting substrate to multiple species in urban settings, were damaged if not killed outright.

The large number of reports from riparian areas in the region highlights the importance of that habitat to birds, especially during times of drought. Both Santa Gertrudis Lane and Peña Blanca L. hosted multiple rare birds. Bird highlights this winter included the continuing Least Grebes and Sedge Wren, multiple Winter Wrens, an influx of Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers, and multiple Rufous-backed Robins. The abundance terminology used in this report is derived from the Annotated Checklist in Finding Birds in Southeast Arizona, 7th edition.

Greater White-fronted Goose is a rare winter visitor. One continued at Lakeside Park, Tucson all season (m. ob.), another continued at Sierra Vista EOP through 16 Jan (m. ob.), which might account for one at Benson STP 22 Jan (JMe), although the arrival of nearly 50 at Whitewater on the same date (JMe, SW) suggests that northward migration was under way. The only other report came from Willcox 19 Feb (EW). Snow Geese winter in some numbers in the Sulphur Springs Valley, particularly at Whitewater but are rare elsewhere in the region: up to two continued at Benson STP through 24 Feb (m. ob.), two were found on Del Urich Golf Course, Tucson 19-20 Dec (FSh, MSh), an immature was discovered at Kearny L. 1 Jan+ (TC), another immature was at Reid Park, Tucson 4 Jan+ (JH), and two were at Tubac Golf Resort 5 Feb-6 Mar (R. McLemore, G. Graves). Ross’s Goose is less common than Snow Goose although it too occurs in numbers in the Sulphur Springs Valley. Away from there, a hybrid that appeared to be more Ross's than Snow was found 1 Jan+ (TC) at Kearny L. and one at Reid Park 4 Jan+ (RTe) were the only ones reported. The latter bird was thought by some to be a hybrid, but many experienced observers did not agree. Though common in winter in other parts of the state, Canada Goose is notably sparse in southeast Arizona. A parvipes Canada Goose continued at Kennedy Park, Tucson all season; the only others reported were up to five at Faria Dairy, Kansas Settlement 8 Dec-24 Feb (EW). Among scattered reports totaling 17 Wood Ducks, seven at Amado STP 4 Feb (CCa) was the largest group. A male Eurasian Wigeon was a good find at Benson STP 6-8 Feb (ph. RF); this species is less than annual in the region. (There were no reports of the hybrid wigeon that had wintered at Willcox for many years.) An oddball male Green-winged Teal at Sweetwater 10 Dec appeared to be a hybrid of the American and Eurasian forms (ph. S. Mlodinow). The Benson STP was again popular with Canvasback with a peak count of 125 there 19 Jan (ARi) being the high count by far in the region this season. Greater Scaup is casual to rare in the region. Reports comprised two at Whitewater 8 Jan-17 Feb (RWr), one at Amado STP 4 Feb (CCa), three at Peña Blanca L. 5 Feb (LN), two at Sierra Vista EOP 6 Feb (TBa, SH), and one at Amado STP 20 Feb (CLu). A White-winged Scoter present at sunset at Willcox 13 Dec (RAR) was absent the next morning. Once again, Hooded Mergansers demonstrated that they are no longer very “rare” in winter in the region, with up to 30 total reported.

In January, it was incontrovertibly demonstrated that two Pacific Loons were wintering at Patagonia L. (v.r. FK) as had been suggested by observers there during the fall. They were last reported 30 Jan (m. ob.). The two continuing Common Loons at Patagonia L. were last reported on the same date (m. ob.). Elsewhere, a single Common Loon was at Faria Dairy 10-12 Dec (AMi, AnMi). At Peña Blanca L., Least Grebes continued all season, with as many as six being reported (m. ob.). A total of 10 Western Grebes were reported, with up to five at Patagonia L. all season. The much less common Clark’s Grebe was found twice, with singles at Faria Dairy 8 Dec-16 Jan (EW et al.) and Roper L. SP 3 Jan (ph. RS). Quite casual in winter were 11 American White Pelicans at Whitewater 15 Feb (DT). An adult Brown Pelican was a surprise at Willcox 19 Dec (MPo, MSt) as they are quite sparse in winter here. American Bittern is a rare and retiring species in the region. One continued at Patagonia L. through 28 Dec (ph. FK) and another flew over SGL 7 Dec (LHal). Snowy Egret is rated “casual” in the region in winter. Up to two were along the Santa Cruz R. at Ina Rd., Marana 1 Jan-27 Feb (ph. ACo), six were at Picacho Res. 9 Jan (JSab), and one was at Palo Duro Creek Golf Course, Nogales 4-10 Feb (MMa). Cattle Egret is even more “casual” in winter than Snowy; one was at Amado STP 12 Dec (SO et al.). Also casual in winter away from a few favored areas, White-faced Ibis were reported as follows: nine in Eloy 5 Jan (DJ), up to 45 at Picacho Res. 5-9 Jan (DJ et al.), and one at Faria Dairy 19 Feb (EW). The latter bird might be regarded as an early northbound migrant.

Despite being relatively numerous in the Phoenix west valley in winter, Black Vultures are seldom seen in winter in this region away from the border from Nogales westward, the Sells area, and Picacho Res. Notable were up to 11 west of Avra Valley STP 24-31 Dec (JH), 13 in the Santa Cruz Flats on the 15 Jan Raptor Survey (fide DJ) and after, two over the Douglas Safeway store 19 Jan (GK), and two at Avra Valley STP 16 Feb (JH). Turkey Vultures share a similar winter distribution with their smaller relatives, so notable were up to two at Avra Valley STP 17 Jan-18 Feb (JH) and a likely early migrant over Sweetwater 26 Feb (ACo). A single Osprey was reported from several Tucson lakes 2 Jan+ (JH et al.). Other winter reports came from Patagonia L. 7 Jan (MMa) and Green Valley 14 Jan (G. Hilden). The only reports of White-tailed Kites came from the San Rafael Valley, the Santa Cruz Flats, and Arivaca Cienega (m. ob.). The wintering Gray Hawk at Amado was reported through at least late February (m. ob.), indicating that it survived the cold snaps. There were single observations of single Gray Hawks at Continental 6 Dec (GW) and Cook's L. near Dudleyville 2 Jan (TC). The wintering Tucson Short-tailed Hawk was last reported 26 Jan, an unexpectedly early departure date compared to past winters (B. Scott et al.). Whether it relocated or succumbed to something is unknown. There were scattered reports of a Zone-tailed Hawk in Tucson 27 Dec-6 Feb (m. ob.), another was at Fort Huachuca 24 Jan-5 Feb (TWo), and one, perhaps an early migrant, was over Texas Canyon east of Benson 26 Feb (JY). Ferruginous Hawks are mostly seen in rural agricultural settings so singles at Nogales 18 Dec (MMa) and Jacobs Park, Tucson 7 Jan (RHo) were notable. Probably the same Rough-legged Hawk that was reported in late fall settled in along Arzberger Rd., Kansas Settlement 16 Jan-15 Mar (ph. SO) to be enjoyed by many. Crested Caracaras were present in the Santa Cruz Flats again this season, with a peak count of 26 reported 21 Dec (B. Uher-Koch) and a count of 22 on the Raptor Survey 15 Jan (fide DJ). Wandering individuals were at Tumacacori 12 Dec (J. Porter) and in the Avra Valley 16 Feb (JH).

Sandhill Cranes are seldom seen away from the Sulphur Springs Valley and upper Gila R. valley in this region. Notable exceptions this winter included one at Rio Rico 2 Dec (ASc), seven along the upper San Pedro R. near Palominas 13 Dec (GLe), one in the Santa Cruz Flats 19 Jan (P. Wang), and up to 10 along Sasco Rd. west of Red Rock 13-24 Feb (KM, MSt). The January 2011 se. Arizona crane surveys by AZG&F tallied a total of 29,962 Sandhill Cranes, with the largest group being 20,900 at Whitewater. The tally in the Safford Valley-Duncan area was 1380 cranes. The latter are of note because the area is seldom visited by birders. Mountain Plovers proved vexatious for observers this winter as they unpredictably moved about in the Santa Cruz Flats and Sulphur Springs Valley. The high counts reported from each area were 82 at Evergreen Turf in the Flats and 21 near Kansas Settlement (m. ob.). In the past decade or two, Black-necked Stilts had wintered along the Santa Cruz R. in Marana between Orange Grove and Cortaro Farms roads (depending on conditions) in numbers up to 200, but none were reported this winter. Several stretches of the river have been fenced and posted against trespassing in the past two years so it is possible that they were present but unfound. Three Stilts seen at Willcox 10 Feb (B. Prentice) were likely early migrants. The first northbound American Avocet arrived at Whitewater on the early date of 20 Jan (RF), with up to 10 present by 22 Feb. Long-billed Curlews wintered in the Santa Cruz Flats and Sulphur Springs Valley again. A Western Sandpiper at Whitewater 19-24 Feb (TBa, DSt) was the only one reported this winter. More perplexing was a peculiar Baird’s Sandpiper-like calidrid with a long bill at Willcox 29 Dec-1 Jan (ph. RF). There are no winter records of Baird’s in the region and the atypical structure of this individual suggested the possibility that it was a hybrid. After most of the migrants have passed through in November, Bonaparte’s Gull is casual in December and January. A few were reported: three at Willcox 5 Dec (DN), one at Benson STP 11 Dec (D. Robinson) and another there 31 Dec (PSa). Similarly, single California Gulls were at Kennedy Park 6 Dec (JH) and Peña Blanca L. 31 Dec (ph. CBen).

Band-tailed Pigeon is rare in winter, so 25-30 in the Patagonia Mtns. near Mt. Washington 14 Dec (DSt, J. Stewart) were of note. Reports of Ruddy Ground-Doves were about average with the exception of one large group: two continued in Patagonia through 24 Dec (m. ob.), one was found on the Dudleyville CBC 2 Jan (D. Clark, D. O’Bannon), up to 12 were at a corral in the Santa Cruz Flats 6 Jan-27 Feb (RPa; ph. LHal, RT) and two were along Sasco Rd. west of Red Rock 18 Feb (CMc, MLe). The only report of Long-eared Owl came from west of the entrance to Chiricahua NM 8 Feb (StR), and the only report of Short-eared Owl came from the San Rafael Valley 1 Jan (RF). Unexpected before late March and even then casual before mid-April, a Lesser Nighthawk was working the sky along Rillito Cr. at Brandi Fenton Park, Tucson 27 Feb-3 Mar (MA).

The cold snaps caused observed mortality among hummingbirds with several reports of dead or weakened individuals from backyard feeding stations in the region, while some hummers survived temperatures as low as 0º F. Finding a dead hummingbird is a relatively unusual event, so this was a notable but not devastating event at the population level. Broad-billed Hummingbirds are known to winter in ne. Tucson but 19 at a feeding station there 18 Dec (MKl) was still a remarkable number. In Cochise Co. where they are much sparser in winter, one visited a feeder in Bisbee after two cold nights, 3 Dec (SW). One that appeared in Hereford 28 Feb (TBa) was likely a migrant. Violet-crowned Hummingbirds put in a good showing with up to 10 reported. Individuals continued in Tucson from the fall at feeders in the Campus Farm Neighborhood (RHo) and near the intersection of Cardinal Rd. and Valencia Rd. (J&R Watts) with the final report of each on 27 Feb. In Green Valley, a second individual joined a continuing bird 9 Dec (C&J Trible) but one died during cold weather in the second week of Jan. At Hereford, one was seen 2 Dec, 25 Dec, and 17 Jan (ph. TBa). In Patagonia, one was at Paton’s 2 Dec-28 Jan (MMa). In Bisbee, one was present in the Warren District 3 Dec+ (SW). Another was in ne. Tucson 10 Dec+ (ph. C. Grossetta). Yet another was in nw. Tucson along Roller Coaster Rd. west of Oracle Rd. 24-31 Dec (J-M Schaefer fide DSm). One in Tucson near the River Rd./Campbell Ave. intersection 10 Jan (ph. M. Stephenson) may have been “Rich Hoyer’s bird” during its absence from his feeders. Farther north, at Oasis B&B in Catalina, one was present 12-29 Jan (RHo, ph. CJ Vincent). Blue-throated Hummingbirds occasionally winter in the lowlands. A female continued from fall at a Green Valley feeder until 1 Dec (C&J Trible; ph. ACo) and an adult male frequented a feeder near the mouth of Ventana Canyon, Tucson 19 Dec-11 Feb (ph. L. Daniels). A Calliope Hummingbird at a feeder in lower Carr Canyon 9 Dec (HBr) was unexpected on such a late date. Northbound migrant male Calliopes began appearing several weeks earlier than expected with individuals photographed at Paton’s 20 Feb (M. Todd) and Hereford 26 Feb+ (TBa). A male Broad-tailed Hummingbird survived temperatures down to zero as it successfully wintered at Beatty’s in Miller Canyon (TBe). Others were reported at Paton’s 1 Dec (MMa) and in lower Stump Canyon, Huachuca Mtns. 30 Dec (PS). Individuals seen in Hereford 2-24 Feb (TBa), lower Stump Canyon 18 Feb (PS), and Sierra Vista 27 Feb (EW) were early northbound migrants, though the first mentioned might have wintered locally given its extended stay. A few Rufous Hummingbirds were seen this winter, with one in Miller Canyon 6 Dec (TBe), one in Hereford 11 Jan (TBa), and one that wintered in ne. Tucson 15 Jan+ (C. Grossetta). The first reports of northbound Rufous came 19 Feb at two Tucson locations (C. Grossetta, R. Matthews) and accelerated from there, with 14 more reported by the end of the month.

Few things brighten up a winter day more than the sight of an Elegant Trogon, the winter status of which is “rare”. The old faithful wintering adult male continued at Patagonia L. all winter. Up to two were reported occasionally in greater Portal to at least 20 Dec (RWe et al.). On the Atascosa Highlands CBC on 3 Jan, two were in the expected Sycamore Canyon location (PKl) while another at Rock Corral Canyon, Tumacacori Mtns. (CMc) was at an odd location away from extensive riparian habitat. Presumably continuing from fall, one was reported in Madera Canyon 5 Jan+ (PKl, m. ob.) where it ate, among other things, pyracantha berries at the Kubo gift shop. In the Huachuca Mtns. singles were seen in Sunnyside Canyon 17 Jan (CLu) and in Garden Canyon 20 Jan (R&RT). Green Kingfishers were again hard to come by, with one continuing at San Bernardino NWR through 25 Dec (B. Radke, RWe) being the only one reported. It was an off year for Lewis’s Woodpeckers, with only two reports, one from Oracle 19 Dec+ (D. Shepard) and another from the Dudleyville CBC 2 Jan (B&P Bowers, JSab). Williamson’s Sapsuckers are rare in the lowlands; single males were reported at Kino Springs 7 Dec+ (C. Riddel, R. Carlson) and again at Evergreen Cemetery, Tucson 12-23 Feb (MAu et al.). The number of Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers found in the state this season must surely be the greatest in recent memory. Birds of Arizona (1964) mentions good numbers present in winter 1952-53 with several taken in the Tucson area, although the total number is not presented. In this region alone, 16 were reported this season, of which nine were photographed. Red-breasted Sapsucker put in a strong showing too, with singles below White House Picnic Area, Madera Canyon (Pima Co.) 22 Dec+ (ph. B. Uher-Koch, W. Jahn), along Sonoita Cr. near 4th Ave and Pennsylvania Ave in Patagonia 2 Jan+ (R. Moore; ph. M. Todd), and at Jacobs Park, Tucson 10-17 Feb (ph. ACo). A “yellow-shafted” Northern Flicker was a rare visitor at Whitewater 13 Feb (SW).

Northern Beardless-Tyrannulet winters in small numbers; among those reported was one in Chino Canyon 28 Dec (DSt) and another at SGL 31 Dec-2 Jan (CMc). Birds of the “Western Flycatcher” complex are quite rare in Arizona in winter. Identifying them to species depends upon hearing diagnostic vocalizations, which most of the birds seem reluctant to supply in winter; those that have cooperated have virtually always been Pacific-slope. One heard calling along Sasco Rd. at the Santa Cruz R. 12-18 Feb (JJ, TC) was identified as a Pacific-slope Flycatcher. Silent individuals were reported from Rock Corral Canyon 30-31 Dec (CMc) and Patagonia L. 2 Jan (LHal). Eastern Phoebe is a rare but regular winter visitor. Singles were reported as follows: Green Valley 3 Dec (JG), SGL 4 Dec-20 Feb (G. Lillie; ph. ASc), Peña Blanca L. 11 Dec-30 Jan (RHo; ph. RPa), and Patagonia L. 28 Dec (R&RT). Very rare in winter, a calling Dusky-capped Flycatcher was found along the Santa Cruz R. at Sasco Rd. 12 Feb-27 Mar (JJ, TC). Up to three Cassin’s Kingbirds survived the winter in Tucson at Reid/Randolph Park (MSt et al.), where they have been found during multiple recent winters. Others reported after December included one at Fort Huachuca 2 Jan (EW) and one at Winston Reynolds-Manzanita Park, Tucson 23 Feb (JH). Bell’s Vireo is exceptional in winter so a report from the Dudleyville CBC 2 Jan (MWeb, TSu) was notable. An early Warbling Vireo was at Peña Blanca L. 20 Feb (CLu); mid-March is the typical arrival period.

In this region, it used to be that all swallows but Northern Rough-winged Swallows were very sparse in winter but the past decade has seen the other species reported in increasing yet still small numbers. To summarize this winter’s other swallows:

Species                          Dec        Jan                                   

Tree Swallow                  2            5 before 1/15; 19 more before 1/21      

Barn Swallow                 4            4 additional

There was a scattering of reports totaling five Red-breasted Nuthatches in the lowlands this winter, but no major movement of the species was reported. Similarly, six Brown Creepers were reported in the lowlands. It was predictable that birders’ interest in Pacific and Winter wrens would be heightened following the splitting of the former “Winter Wren” into these two species, but the numbers of Winter Wrens reported was well beyond most expectations based on past numbers of the combined “Winter Wren”. Whether the large number reported was due to observer diligence and reporting or to an atypically large influx will best be judged after several more years of data collection, but I suspect that both were factors this season. (It should be noted that Winter Wren is a “review species” while Pacific Wren is a “sketch details” species.) Reports were as follows:

Pacific Wren

1 Patagonia L.                           22 Dec (ASc)

3 Dudleyville CBC                     2 Jan (TC)

Silent “Winter Wren” species

1 Dudleyville CBC                     2 Jan (TC)

Winter Wren

1 San Bernardino NWR              all season (RWe)

1 Anza Trail, Tubac                    through 10 Dec (m. ob.)

1 SGL                                          9-16 Dec & again in Feb

                                                    (ASc; ph. S. Mlodinow et al.)

1 Dudleyville CBC                       2 Jan (TC)

1 Peña Blanca L.                         8 Jan+ (CMc; ph. G. Graves)

1 Madera Canyon (Pima)            16 Jan+ (ph. CMc)

1 Colossal Cave Mountain Park  9 Feb (JY et al.; ph. ACo)

1 Cave Creek Canyon                 12 Feb (ph. CBen; D. Logue)

Arizona’s first Sedge Wren continued to forage mouse-like and usually hidden in dry grasses along the edge of Peña Blanca L. at the upstream end of the lake near the old boat ramp and below the Upper Thumb Rock Picnic Area all season (ph. ACo, CMe; m. ob.). It was seldom easy to find. It was most often located by detection of its calls. Black-capped Gnatcatchers proved resilient at multiple known locations:

2 Sonoita Cr. below Patagonia             16 Dec (MPo, ph. CBen)

3 Chino Canyon                                    28 Dec (DSt)

1 Guadalupe Canyon                           15 Jan (M. Hilchey)

1 Patagonia L., dam service rd.            30 Jan+ (MPo, MSt)

2 Montosa Canyon                                23 Feb+ (G. Cox, RHo)

There were a few Golden-crowned Kinglets reported away from coniferous forest habitat, with one on the Dudleyville CBC 2 Jan (DPo, D. Ginter fide DJ) and another in lower Garden Canyon, Fort Huachuca 18 Jan (R&RT). Rufous-backed Robin put on a good showing of eight to nine individuals with several lingering for prolonged appreciation, as follows:

1 SGL                                         9-10 Dec (ph. ASc)

1 Patagonia L.                            31 Dec-1 Jan (BA, SH)

2 Patagonia L.                            2 Jan-12 Feb (ph. LHal)

                                                    (includes earlier bird)

1 HTM                                        1 Jan+ (ph. ARi; ph. TBa)

1-2 Patagonia (town)                 5-17 Jan (TA, ASc)

                                                   (second bird 6 Jan only)

1 Santa Cruz Flats                     16 Jan-23 Feb (ph. RF)

1 Patagonia, Blue Haven Rd.    25 Feb (MMa)

                                                   (may be same as earlier nearby bird)

As happens more often than not, it was an off year in the region for the other wintering thrushes and the bluebirds. The only report of Gray Catbird came from downtown Portal 9 Dec (RWe). The Brown Thrasher found in a nw. Tucson yard in the fall continued through the winter season (LN, L. Greene). Longspur reports seemed relatively few this season, but exceptional were up to three Lapland Longspurs at Willow Tank near Portal 5-22 Feb (RWe, ph. RAR). McCown’s Longspurs are seldom reported from Pinal Co. so four south of Coolidge 23 Jan (DJ, KK) were notable. Ten reported at Willow Tank 5-22 Feb (RWe) were locally rare. Though not rare, up to 200 Chestnut-collared Longspurs were seen at Willow Tank too (RWe).

The Tennessee Warbler from fall continued at Sweetwater through 5 Dec (m. ob.). Another was found along the Santa Cruz R. near SGL 4-7 Dec (ph. MLe, CMc). The lingering Nashville Warbler at Sweetwater was reported through 17 Jan (m. ob.); it is very unusual for this species to winter in Arizona. The Northern Parula from fall continued along the Santa Cruz R. at Tubac through 6 Dec (m. ob.) and another was at Peña Blanca L. 15-19 Feb (ph. PKl). A male Yellow Warbler successfully wintered at Sweetwater again, despite the hard freezes (m. ob.). Elsewhere, one was at Peña Blanca L. 3 Dec (PKl). A second bird, which arrived at Sweetwater 27 Feb+ (T. Lenz et al.), was likely an early migrant. A Chestnut-sided Warbler was a good find near the Ina Rd. bridge over the Santa Cruz R. in Marana 3 Jan (RT). A female Black-throated Blue Warbler was in a Portal yard 22 Dec (RAR, RWe); most Arizona reports of this species are of males. Although Black-throated Gray Warblers are expected in small numbers in winter, seven in a single portion of the Dudleyville CBC 3 Jan (TC) was a remarkable tally. Palm Warbler is a casual winter visitor to the region; singles were at the Kino Springs clubhouse 7 Dec+ (C. Riddel, R. Carlson; ph. RT) and at the old silted “Orange Grove Pond” along the Santa Cruz R. in Marana 12-15 Jan (ph. PKl; ph. ACo). The Black-and-white Warbler from fall successfully wintered at Sweetwater (m. ob.). Elsewhere, one was at SGL 11 Dec (D. Quesenberry; CLu) and another was at Cook's L. 2 Jan (TC). Another casual winter visitor, an Ovenbird was at SGL 9-12 Dec (ph. ASc). A Louisiana Waterthrush was reported at Patagonia Roadside Rest 16 Dec-5 Feb (MSt, WR, ph. CBen) where presumably the same bird wintered the year before. There was a report of another one above the Amphitheater in Madera Canyon (Santa Cruz Co.) 13 Jan (LHal). The female Hooded Warbler from the fall continued near SGL through 13 Dec (m. ob.). A male reported along the Santa Cruz R. at Sasco Rd. 2 Feb (S. Ritt) was not relocated. Winter Wilson’s Warbler reports continue to accumulate. Three were seen in December, another three were found in January, and one was found in February. Among them, two likely wintered, a male at Reid Park Zoo 26 Jan-17 Feb (B. Gibbons) and a male at Columbus Park, Tucson 31 Jan+ (ph. ACo).

The Annotated Checklist of the Birds of Arizona (1981) stated that there were no winter records of Botteri’s Sparrow and that remained unchanged up to the most recent publications. It may be changing now, as experienced observers reported one from Hereford 18 Dec-29 Jan (RB) and another from along the Patagonia Lake Rd. 30 Jan (RT). It is possible that this is a new phenomenon or that they winter in very low densities or just go undetected due to their habitat and behavior. The latter possibility seems less far fetched when considering that it was not until 1967 that the first Arizona nest of this species was found, even though the first juvenile was collected in 1893. It would be worthwhile to more actively seek them out and document Botteri’s Sparrows in winter. As usual, there were a few reports of Clay-colored Sparrow, all singles, from Catalina SP 8 Dec (S. Mlodinow), Tumacacori 12-13 Dec (JSab et al), Kino Springs 13 Dec (LHal), Cochise 8 Jan (RWr), Tucson 16 Jan (MSt), and HTM 7-9 Feb (MSt, MPo). Not unexpected but seldom found in winter, a Five-striped Sparrow was in typical habitat in lower Sycamore Canyon 31 Dec (PKl). Lark Buntings were abundant in the Sulphur Springs Valley this winter with flocks of hundreds and even thousands reported. A Grasshopper Sparrow was somewhat north of usual in the Santa Cruz Flats 5 Dec (DSm). There were relatively few reports of Fox Sparrow. A “Red” Fox Sparrow was a good find at Slaughter Ranch 12 Dec (ph. RWe). Single “Slate-colored” Fox Sparrows were along Flux Canyon Rd, Patagonia Mtns. 10 Dec (ph. ASc) and in Portal 7 Jan-3 Mar (RWe). A total of 23 Swamp Sparrows was reported in the region this season, a good showing by this species. White-crowned Sparrows were less than abundant this season but some of the rarer Zonotrichia species still turned up. As many as 10 White-throated Sparrows were found, a good showing. A Harris’s Sparrow wintered in ne. Tucson 14 Dec+ (J. Smith; ph. RCa) and another was at Green Valley 29 Dec (DSt). The only Golden-crowned Sparrow was at Dudleyville 2 Jan (DPo, D. Ginter).

Hepatic Tanager is “rare” in the region through the end of December, becoming “casual” in January. This December, 14 were reported. One of them successfully wintered at Patagonia L. (EW, m. ob.) and two of them wintered at Ash Canyon B&B (MJB). In Madera Canyon, two were reported 1 Jan+ (B. Wilmore, m. ob.), one was at Paton’s 6 Jan (MMa), and one was at the Spirit Tree Inn, Harshaw Cr. 4-5 Feb (fide MSt). Summer Tanager is considered “casual” at any time in the winter. Up to two wintered at Sweetwater (m. ob.). Black-headed Grosbeak is barely as common as “casual” in winter, so a male at SGL 21 Dec-2 Jan (ph. BHi) and a male and female along the Anza Trail between Tubac and Tumacacori 13 Feb (GW, EWe) were remarkable. Blue Grosbeak is fully “casual” in winter, so singles at Double Adobe 22 Feb (RB) and Palominas 22-28 Feb (GLe) were of note. A female Indigo Bunting at Sweetwater 7 Feb (RHo) was also casual. A male Hooded Oriole successfully wintered at Catalina (ph. B&P Bowers), utilizing a hummingbird feeder. A Hooded along the Anza Trail near Tubac 17 Feb (FSh, MSh) may have been an early migrant. Traditionally less common in winter than Hooded, Bullock’s Orioles were reported in greater than expected numbers: from Blue Haven Rd., Patagonia 8-16 Dec (MMa), ne. Tucson 15 Dec+ (B. Walsh, LN, L. Greene), Cook's L. 2 Jan (ph. TC), below Proctor Rd., Madera Canyon 18 Jan (ACo, JBoc) and a different Bullock’s was along Blue Haven Rd. 16 Feb (MMa). Scott’s Oriole reports came from Ash Canyon B&B 5 Jan+ (MJB), (two) in lower Carr Canyon 22 Jan (HBr), and Hereford 3 Feb (TBa). The only lowland Red Crossbills reported were in Tucson 24 Dec (B. Gibbons). Lawrence’s Goldfinches were nearly unreported this season save for a single bird at Continental 2-17 Jan (GW). Evening Grosbeak has become a very rarely reported species in the region in recent years, so lowland reports from the Paton’s 2 Dec (fide MMa) and Palominas 3 Jan (GLe) were notable.                  

 Cited observers: Bill Adler (BA), Moez Ali (MA), Keith Archibald (KAr), Tom Arny (TA), Martha Auslander (MAu), Charles Babbitt (CBab), Mary Jo Ballator (MJB), Jack Bartley (JBa), Tom Beatty (TBe), Robert Behrstock (RB), Chris Benesh (CBen), Kathleen Blair (KB), Terence Blows (TBl), Jerry Bock (JBoc), Ed Bonkowski (EBo), Al Borgardt (AB), Helga Borgardt (HBor),   Gary Botello (GBo), Hank Brodkin (HBr), Bill Burger (BB), Steve Burk (StB), Steve and Sue Burk (S&SB), Sue Burk (SuB), Richard Carlson (RCa), Cliff Cathers (CCa), Bea Cooley (BCo), John Coons (JCn), Andrew Core (ACo), Troy Corman (TC), Tommy DeBardeleben (TDeB), DeeDee DeLorenzo (DDe), Keith DeLorenzo (KDe), Rich Ditch (RDi), Sue Drown (SDr), Russel Duerkson (RDue), Betsy Feinberg (BFei), Richard Filley (RFi), Randy Forrest (RFo), Richard Fray (RF), Steve Ganley (SG), Brian Gatlin (BGa), Jeff Gilligan (JG), Brendon Grice (BGri), Paul & Gloria Halesworth (P&GH), Laurens Halsey (LHal), Brooks Hart (BH), Lauren Harter (LHar), Stuart Healy (SH), Melanie Herring (MHe), John Higgins (JH), Tom Hildebrant (THld), Dottie Hook (DH), Steve Hosmer (SHo), Eric Hough (ErH), Bob Hough (BHo), Elaine Hough (ElH), Rich Hoyer (RHo), Rob Hunt (RHu), Doug Inverson (DI), Brian Ison (BIs), Doug Jenness (DJ), Tom Johnson (TJ), Justin Jones (JJ), John Jung (JJu), Keith Kamper (KKa), Frank Kee (FK), Diane Kelley (DKe), Philip Kline (PKl), Glenn Klingler (GK), Mary Klinkel (MKl), Pam Koch (PKo), Jim Kopitzke (JKo), Larry Langstaff (LL), Chuck LaRue (CLR), Paul Lehman (PL), Michael Lester (MLe), Tom Lewis (TLew), Gordon Lewis (GLe), Tom Linda (TL), Carl Lundblad (CLu), Art Manburg (AMan), Michael Marsden (MMa), Chris McCreedy (CMc), James McKay (JaMc), Melissa Meadows (MMe), Charles Melton (CMe), Alan Miller (AMi), Jay Miller (JMil), David Moll (DM), Eric Moore (EMo), Jim Morgan (JMg), Peter Moulton (PMo), Ken Murphy (KM), Duane Nelson (DN), Mike Nicosia (MN), Larry Norris (LN), Gary Nunn (GN), Melissa Oehler (MO), Scott Olmstead (SO), Karen O'Neil (KO), Bobby Painter (BPa), Wayne Painter (WPa), Jan Parrott (JPar), Robert Payne (RPa), Marge Penton (MPen), Barb Philips (BP), Dave Powell (DPo), Bonnie Pranter (BPr), Shaun Putz (SPu), Roger Radd (RR), Jan Richmond (JRi), Micah Riegner (MiR), Arlene Ripley (ARi), Steve Ritt (StR), Rose Anne Rowlett (RAR), Will Russell (WR), John Saba (JSab), Peter Salomon (PSa), Alan Schmierer (ASc), Robert Shantz (RS), Mark Sharon (MSh), Farrish Sharon (FSh), Art and Nancy Silacci (A&NS), Chrissy Smith (CSm), James Smith (JSm), Darlene Smyth (DSm), Pete Sockness (PS), Dave Stejskal (DSt), Mark Stevenson (MSt), Lindsay & Keith Story (L&KS), Tice Supplee (TSu), Rick Taylor (RT), Roger Tess (RTe), Rick & Ricki Thompson (R&RT), Walter Thurber (WT), Stig Tjotta (ST), Carl Tomoff (CT), Diane Touret (DT), Steve Umland (SU), David Vander Pluym (DVP), Marcus Watson (MWa), Magill Weber (MWeb), John West (JWe), Ellen West (EWe), George West (GW), Jason Wilder (JWi), Sheri Williamson (SW), Erika Wilson (EW), Chauncey & Sarah Wood (C&SW), Tom Wood (TWo), Rick Wright (RWr), John Yerger (JY), Zack Zdinak (ZZ)