ARIZONA SEASONAL REPORTS

Summer 2010

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

Introduction

Much of Arizona had above-normal temperatures in June and above-average rainfalls in July during the monsoon season. The western parts of the state, however, were drier than usual for the entire two-month summer season. There were some lingering waterbirds and passerines from spring and a few early arrivals for fall migration, but nothing out of the ordinary. The movement of Brown Pelicans appeared to be larger than in the previous two summers; at least 16, mostly immatures, were reported throughout the state. This was more in accord with the numbers that are expected. Typically, young birds wander from their nesting areas in the Gulf of California in the late summer and early fall, during the postbreeding season. The exceptional number of Hooded Warblers (18) and Yellow-throated Vireos (6) reported in the summer 2009 season wasn't repeated this year. Only two Hooded Warblers and no Yellow-throated Vireos were found. It was a good season for the rare White-eared Hummingbird, with reports in three "sky island" mountains in the southeast and a well-documented first record in Coconino Co. Reports suggested, however, that hummingbird numbers, particularly of more common species, were lower than usual at feeding stations.

Our regional coordinators have assembled their reports for the Summer season from the AZFO seasonal reports database, the Arizona-New Mexico Listserv, Northern Arizona Birding Forum, records submitted to the Arizona Bird Committee, and eBird. 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 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 indicated in the text by the first initial and last name.

Abbreviations used throughout the reports include: 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).

—Doug Jenness, Statewide Coordinator, AZFO Seasonal Reports

Mohave

Abbreviations: Bullhead City (BHC), Havasu National Wildlife Refuge (HNWR), lower Colorado River Valley (LCRV)

To quote the National Weather Service, “…summer sizzled but the monsoon fizzled…” throughout Mohave Co. during June and July. Temperatures rose quickly in June and July became one of the hottest months ever across the Mohave Desert. Bullhead City experienced the hottest temperatures in the country 15 and 16 Jul with 121° F heat, and the monthly average temperature in the Kingman area was 3.2 degrees higher than normal, making it the second warmest summer on record. Higher elevation areas such as Hualapai Mtn. and Wikieup received thunderstorm activity toward the end of July, but precipitation throughout the county was below normal,

The number of unusual sightings submitted was few, which may be explained by the reluctance of resident birders to brave the heat. Those who were in the field noted lower numbers of waterbird species than reported during previous summers. Most published records from the LCRV appear in Birds of the Lower Colorado River Valley by K. V. Rosenberg et al. (1991), which remains the comparison standard for reports from that area.

Northbound migration for Green-winged Teal is usually completed by mid-April, so the arrival of one male 11 June in Pintail Slough, HNWR was unusual (ph. DDe). Blue-winged Teal are rare in the summer in the LCRV, so two in Pintail Slough 11 June were noteworthy (ph. DDe). Irregular residents through June and July, four Redheads with 10 ducklings were observed on the Colorado R. near the BHC police substation 27 Jun (HHo). Although Brown Pelicans have been reported as far north as Davis Dam and L. Mead in the summer, they are usually lone immatures, so the discovery of two Brown Pelicans, an adult and an immature, at Willow Beach marina 3+ Jul was unusual (HHo). Later in the month, 28 Jul, one adult Brown Pelican was found at Telephone Cove, L. Mohave (HHo). A rare transient in June and early July, two White-faced Ibises were seen flying over North Topock Marsh near N. Dike 11 Jun (DDe).

With no records of Mississippi Kites in the HNWR, the report of one 16 Jun along Interior Rd. near a Willow Flycatcher survey site was extraordinary (ph. JLea). It was good to note that at least one pair of Common Black-Hawks observed 6 Jul at a nest continues to reside near the confluence of the Virgin R. and Beaver Dam Wash (SRo).

American Avocets are common fall transients from late July through mid-October, so 65 at Willow Beach in early June were likely late spring migrants and 95 observed 27 Jun near the pipeline that crosses the Colorado R. in BHC were possibly early fall migrants (HHo). The breeding distribution and number of Yellow-billed Cuckoos in the state has declined significantly in the past 80 years (Atlas). The discovery of three Yellow-billed Cuckoos and a Yellow-billed Cuckoo’s nest containing a blue egg in the Beal Restoration Area, HNWR 22 Jul was, therefore, good news (JK, CDo). Curve-billed Thrashers are uncommon in the LCRV, particularly in the summer, so it was surprising to observe two 6 Jun+ at a BHC residence (DDe). Black-and-White Warblers are rare migrants throughout the LCRV and accidental in summer and a second-year male mist-netted in the Beal Restoration Area, HNWR 14 Jul (JK) was, therefore, very unusual.
                                          

Compiled by Lauren Harter

Abbreviations: GCNP (Grand Canyon National Park)

The effects of heavy precipitation during the winter months were reflected this summer in above-average water levels in the region’s lakes and creeks. However, the forests north of Flagstaff were dry enough for the Schultz Fire to burn over 15,000 acres in late June. Most of the area burned was on the Coconino NF, from the east slopes of the San Francisco Peaks to US 89. Meanwhile, birders reported some interesting migrants and breeders, particularly individuals north of their typical range. By far the highlight of the season was Coconino Co.'s first White-eared Hummingbird.

Following a spring with several reports of lingering migrant waterfowl, the following rare or irregular breeding species continued at Mormon L. into the summer. This may have been due to wetter-than-usual conditions. Whether these birds delayed leaving or bred this year is unknown.

White-faced Ibis also took advantage of abundant water. Particularly notable were the high numbers on Marshall L., where 35 were reported 11 Jun (D. Normandin) and 10 were present 11 Jul (S. Hosmer). Although these flocks may have been migrants, it is likely that this species breeds in the region when optimal conditions exist. Nesting, however, has not been confirmed in the county. Few migrating shorebirds were reported this season. Sightings included six Marbled Godwits at White Horse L. 3 Jul (ZZ) and a Least Sandpiper at Kachina Wetlands 11 Jul (S. Hosmer). Both reports were early for the region.

White-winged Doves continue to increase above the Mogollon Rim. A pair was near Elden Spring throughout the season, suggesting possible nesting in the area (JWi, m. ob.). Other reports from Flagstaff were one 6 Jul (PKe) and two 18 Jul (CLR). A Long-eared Owl was photographed at Lamar Haines WA 5 Jun (GBo). The date suggests breeding in the area, which is interesting but not unprecedented for this irregularly occurring species.

Observers reported generally low numbers of hummingbirds, presumably due to abundant wildflowers available following a wet spring. Nonetheless, a White-eared Hummingbird dazzled birders while visiting a Flagstaff yard 21-23 Jun (ph. S. Clark, m. ob.). Rare even in se. Arizona, this is only the second state record of this species away from that region and the first for Coconino Co. The continued northward expansion of Anna’s Hummingbird was marked by reports from Elden Spring throughout the season (m. ob.). Two juveniles were spotted there 26 Jul (JWi), suggesting successful breeding. This species has not yet been documented breeding in the county or, apparently, above the Mogollon Rim. Rufous Hummingbirds were late to return this summer. In an average season, the first individuals appear around the end of June, becoming common in early July. This summer, although a few individuals arrived in early July, the bulk of migrants did not appear until the end of the month.

Greater Pewees are more prone to wander west of their breeding range rather than north, so a singing male at Hearst Tanks 18 Jun was exceptional and a first for GCNP (BGa). Also north of their regular breeding range, the small breeding population of Vermilion Flycatchers in Fredonia continues. Two nesting pairs were observed 22 Jun (TC). Although once an uncommon breeder in GCNP, Purple Martins have become quite rare in the area, with no Atlas reports north of Williams. A pair present at Hearst Tanks, GCNP, well north of Williams, 18 Jun (BGa) was, therefore, notable. A Swainson’s Thrush detected on the nw. Kaibab Plateau 1 Jun was likely a late migrant (J. Cooper, M. Hilferty).

Territorial Lucy’s Warblers continue to occupy upper Kanab Cr. in Fredonia, where two singing males were noted 23 Jun (TC). This species, which is steadily expanding its range north, was only recorded in lower Kanab Cr. during the Atlas surveys in the 1990s. Another Lucy’s Warbler visited Elden Spring 26 Jul, where it is a rare but apparently increasing migrant (JWi). A rare bird at any season, a singing male Chestnut-sided Warbler at the West Fork of Oak Cr. 17-30 Jun was exceptional; this species is casual in the state in summer (K. Maurer, ph. JWi).

The presence of several singing male Black-chinned Sparrows on the south slopes of Mt. Elden 6 Jun strongly suggests breeding in the area (JWi). This species was not detected here during the Atlas surveys, though it is difficult to know if this reflects a range expansion or simply the difficulty in accessing the area. A Lincoln’s Sparrow at Picture Canyon 8 Jun was most likely a late spring migrant (BCo). A male Indigo Bunting was away from known breeding areas 23 Jun, when it was found singing along Kanab Cr. in Fredonia (TC).

Navajo and Hopi Nations

Compiled by Doug Jenness

The only summer sightings from this region came from a trip that Dave Stejskal made in early June, during which he found a few lingering waterbirds and passerines. He reported that the higher-than-usual water level at Many Farms L. didn't offer the best shoreline for late shorebirds, waders, or gulls. Beginning with the Fall 2010 season Jason Wilder will be compiling the reports from this region.

A lingering drake Northern Pintail was at Ganado L. 4 Jun, as well as an even less expected Clark's Grebe. At the same location Stejskal observed a late group of five White-faced Ibis. On the same day a late Cedar Waxwing was at the Hubbell Trading Post in Ganado.

At Ganado L. 4 Jun Stejskal found a single adult male Great-tailed Grackle, a species that has been expanding in the region over the past few years. Also present was a female Indigo Bunting. At the Hubbell Trading Post in Ganado 4 Jun he photographed a singing male American Goldfinch. Usually this species is gone from the state by the end of May, but a few may linger into June, both in the north and the south.

Yavapai

Compiled by Troy Corman, Roger Radd, and Carl Tomoff

Although the summer monsoon was slightly below average for regional precipitation, what rain did fall was well timed and resulted in good productivity, especially for desert grassland species such as Gambel’s Quail, which continued egg-laying through the period into August. In other habitat zones the region experienced good water flows and an absence of damaging storms to record a solidly average year – itself a rare thing in the desert. Common Black-Hawks and Yellow-billed Cuckoos were reported to have reproduced well in the Verde Valley, and the dearth of hummingbirds above the rim was not reflected below.

Both family groups of Canada Geese that bred at Willow and Watson lakes in the spring remained through the period (CT, DM). Similar to last summer, a pair of Ring-necked Ducks remained through the season at Willow L. (CT, DM). Ruddy Ducks have been uncommon but regular nonbreeding summer residents at Prescott in recent years. However, five recently hatched ducklings were closely accompanied by an adult pair at Watson L. on 10 Jul documenting a casual regional nesting record. They were noted through the period (CT). Meanwhile over 20 other Ruddy Ducks resided at Willow L. throughout the season. Common Mergansers are accidental summer residents at Prescott. A pair was photographed at Watson L. 11 Jun (FG); an adult female was still present 5 Jul (CT).

First noted in early April (MN, CT), a few Neotropic Cormorants continued at Willow and Watson lakes through the summer for the first time (CT, FG, DM). Fledged young reported 8 Jul (ph. FG) suggest breeding, but it is possible that these birds flew from elsewhere. Likely a late transient, a Western Grebe remained at Watson L. until 11 Jun (FG). Also late was a Cattle Egret at Willow L. 3 Jun (DM).

A pair of Common Black-Hawks initiated a nest at a new location along Granite Cr. south of Watson L. this spring. Although the pair was seen intermittently through the summer, it apparently did not fledge young (CT, FG, DM). The northernmost breeding site of Harris’s Hawks in Yavapai Co. was discovered when two adults were photographed near another hawk on a nest in the vicinity of Dewey 18 Jul (CT). A Swainson’s Hawk in far western Yavapai Co. near Seligman 12 Jul (RR) suggested breeding in a region where this species is sparse. Other late spring transients noted at Willow L. included two American Avocets 3 Jun and four Black-necked Stilts 10 Jun (both DM).

An adult male Gilded Flicker interacting with a family group of imm. Northern (Red-shafted) Flickers in a grove of cottonwoods along Willow Cr. 11 Jul suggested interbreeding there (CT). This is an unusually high elevation for Gilded Flickers, a normally desert-dwelling woodpecker. A Willow Flycatcher on 27 Jun along Granite Cr. provided the first summer record of a singing male for the Prescott area (CT).

Casual visitor during the summer in the region, a singing male Northern Parula at Granite Basin 2-9 Jul (CT) was observed until 26 Jul (KA, SDr, DM). A female was also observed at this location 8-9 Jul (C. Levine, DM) and was last noted 19 Jul (DM) but no nesting evidence was observed. Yellow-breasted Chats have not bred at Prescott in recent years, so four birds singing in lush riparian vegetation along the Agua Fria R. near Humboldt 18 Jul were noteworthy (CT). The returning hybrid male Western x Summer Tanager present at Red Rock SP since late May was noted through at least mid-June (BGa, DRa, SR).

A male Cassin’s Sparrow sang in grassland east of the Agua Fria R. near Dewey 18 Jul (CT), which is an area they have not been reported in the past. Two singing Song Sparrows along the Agua Fria R. near Humboldt 18 Jul (CT) suggested a new nesting location at a higher elevation (4500′) than where this species typically breeds in the Verde R. Valley.               

White Mountains

Compiled by Eric Hough

Abbreviations: Mogollon Rim (Rim), National Fish Hatchery (NFH), White Mountain Apache (WM Apache)

Interesting patterns this summer in the White Mtns. region included an overall scarcity of hummingbirds and Hepatic Tanagers. Food shortages from last summer’s below-average rainfall and harsh weather conditions this past winter and early spring may have led to decreased productivity and survival for some species. Weather this season in the White Mtns., however, was typical for the region with warm, dry conditions in June until the monsoon rains arrived in the beginning of July with cooler temperatures. Rainfall during the monsoon appeared to be average to above average.

Arizona’s introduced population of breeding Canada Geese is known primarily from the White Mtns. region. A family of seven geese including five goslings 21 Jun indicated breeding on the WM Apache reservation at the Williams Cr. NFH (ErH et al.). During the Atlas surveys of the 1990s canvassers were not permitted to survey on WM Apache lands and the extent of breeding there has been unclear. Also of note were as many as 130 geese at Luna L. 24 Jun (SH), indicating a healthy population in the Alpine area. Green Herons are rare visitors and very scarce breeders in the region. Therefore, one at Becker L. 3 Jun (DSt) was a great find.

An uncommon forest resident, one adult Northern Goshawk was seen 13 Jun near Black Canyon L. (MPo, BC). This is worth noting as much of the forest surrounding this location was incinerated during the 2002 Rodeo-Chediski Fire. Most summers only a couple of Common Black-Hawks are reported above the Rim, so one observed soaring above the Ice Cave Trail in Lakeside 9 Jun (GW, EWe) was noteworthy. Once again the lone Sandhill Crane was found summering at Luna L. 1 Jun (SH, DT). Amazingly, this individual has been observed there in summer since at least 1999 (fide MSt). The bird is not thought to be one of the individuals from the experimental nesting flock brought to n. Arizona during the mid-1990’s.

Barn Owls are sparse residents above the Rim and were not confirmed as breeding in the region during the Atlas surveys. One was flushed from a roost 20 Jun at the intersection of Pulp Mill Rd. and Cottonwood Wash north of Clay Springs (ErH, ElH). An uncommon, nomadic resident within the region, one Long-eared Owl was heard at KP Cienega campground near Hannagan Meadow 13 Jul (MPo). A pair of Elf Owls calling 11 Jun at Lower Juan Miller CG was found at 5,570 ft. (TC). This is a higher elevation and farther north in Greenlee Co. than found during the Atlas surveys. This species has a limited distribution within the region, occurring only below the Rim in Greenlee Co. Burrowing Owls are locally distributed across the rangelands in the region. Four birds were found at a new location along Zeniff Rd. near Dry L. 20 Jun (ErH, ElH), which is farther south than this species was recorded in Navajo Co. during the Atlas surveys.

Magnificent Hummingbirds are rare, but increasingly observed summer residents along the Rim within the White Mtns. region. With few breeding records along the Rim despite speculation that breeding is likely more widespread, an active nest located 11 Jun along Bear Wallow Cr. (LP) was an exciting find. Later in the summer, postbreeding dispersal brought sightings above the Rim with one female 24 Jul in Alpine (MWh, LWT) and one imm. male 31 Jul in Heber (ErH, BHo).

American Three-toed Woodpeckers have been found along the Rim in s. Navajo Co. since last fall. A fire-adapted species, the birds are invading the large burn area of the 2002 Rodeo-Chediski Fire to take advantage of abundant insects inhabiting charred snags and stressed trees. Sightings of single birds this summer came from Black Canyon 1 Jun (ElH, BHo) and 13 Jun (MPo, BC), and from east of Pinetop-Lakeside along the Los Burros Trail 26 Jun (GW, EWe). Given the increased number of observations of this species along the Rim, it is likely that breeding occurs locally. There are, however, as yet no breeding records for Navajo Co.

Casual to rare in s. Navajo Co., three Clark’s Nutcrackers seen in Heber 30 Jun (ElH, BHo) was very unusual. There are old records from Show Low (Phillips et al. 1964) and the Atlas volunteers found birds farther west along the Rim in s. Coconino Co. They are common to the east in the upper elevations of the White Mtns. No irruption events were noted in n. Arizona at the time or in the previous months. Thus, these birds may have been refugees from the Schultz Fire that was burning through high-elevation habitat on the San Francisco Peaks at that time (the other main breeding population in Arizona besides the White Mtns.).

Swainson’s Thrushes are rare and local breeders at higher elevations of the White Mtns. During the Atlas surveys breeding was confirmed along the West Fork of the Little Colorado R. near Greer. One individual found along the East Fork of the river in Greer 27 Jul (TDeB) was noteworthy. Although Northern Mockingbirds are fairly common at lower elevations of the region, one was found at the unusually high elevation of 9,100 ft. west of Eagar 3 Jun (DSt). The Atlas surveyors detected breeding individuals only up to 7,800 ft.

The most spectacular rarity find in the region this season was a Yellow-throated Warbler at Fool Hollow L. SP in Show Low 11 Jun (ph. MSh, FSh). Casual in the state, this report represents the first record of this species for Navajo Co. and only the third record for the northern half of the state. This bird was of the expected western D. d. albilora race. Another unusual sighting was of a late migrant MacGillivray’s Warbler along Turkey Cr. 1.5 miles upstream from the Juan Miller Rd. crossing in Greenlee Co., at the low elevation of 4,800 ft. 12 Jun (TC). Yellow-breasted Chats are fairly common in riparian habitat in the region, except in s. Navajo Co. where they occur only locally. One bird was vocalizing from dense shrubbery along dry Cottonwood Wash at Pulp Mill Rd. north of Clay Springs 20 Jun (ErH, ElH) and another individual was heard along Porter Cr. below the dam at Scott Res. in Pinetop-Lakeside 21 Jun (ErH et al.). These locations are southeast of the Chevelon and Clear Cr. drainages where this species has been previously reported breeding in s. Navajo Co.

Not reported as breeding in Greenlee Co. during the Atlas surveys, one Lincoln’s Sparrow was observed in upper Fish Cr. west of Hannagan Meadow 3 Jul (LP). Scott’s Orioles are sparsely distributed in pinyon-juniper habitat above the Rim. One male was located along Zeniff Rd. near Dry L. 20 Jun (ErH, ElH) in the same general area where a pair was observed last summer. Red Crossbills are nomadic, uncommon residents within the White Mtns. region. During the Atlas surveys, breeding was not confirmed in s. Navajo Co. Therefore, a flock of 12 crossbills with at least four streaky juveniles visiting feeders in Heber 12 Jul+ (ElH, BHo) was noteworthy and suggests nearby breeding.

Southwest

Compiled by Henry Detwiler

The summer season started off with mild temperatures and ended with 110° F. days and high humidity. Fortunately, several researchers were working at both Imperial and Cibola NWRs and provided many of the season’s sightings. Elsewhere, there was limited or no reporting; no doubt many unusual and rare birds went undetected.

A Common Loon in basic plumage was observed and photographed in the Yuma Main Drain 17 Jun (D. Montgomery).

A distressed, imm. Blue-footed Booby was found at the US Fish and Wildlife Service office east of Yuma 22 Jul (ph. SHe). This bird was rehabilitated at the Coachella Wild Bird Center in California and subsequently released at the Salton Sea. A second booby (unknown species) was seen the same day near Julian Wash on the Colorado R. (EJ).

Over the course of the summer four stranded Brown Pelicans were taken by refuge personnel from Yuma Co. to Sony Bono Salton Sea NWR for rehabilitation (SHe).

Rare (but regular) in sw. Arizona, especially during summer, a Zone-tailed Hawk was seen at Cibola NWR 16 Jun (AL, AF). Accidental in the region, a Crested Caracara was also reported from Cibola NWR 15 Jun (AL, AF).

Totally unexpected, a wandering Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher was spotted and photographed at Cibola NWR 18 Jun (AL, AF). This represents the first record for the lower Colorado R. valley. A slightly late Warbling Vireo was observed at Imperial NWR 5 Jun (IM) and a summer wanderer was seen at Bill Williams NWR 28 Jun (KB). Uncommon summer observations of Tree Swallow were made at Imperial NWR 5 and 19 Jun (IM).

A late Orange-crowned Warbler lingered next to the Bill Williams NWR Headquarters until 2 Jun (KB, JR). A bizarre and unexpected midsummer report of Orange-crowned Warbler came from the Bill Williams riparian area 28 Jun (KB). Northern Parulas continued at Cibola NWR from the spring. Up to three individuals were found in separate locations 16 and 23 Jun, and on 13 Jul (StR). A possible Hooded Warbler was heard singing at Cibola NWR 13 Jul (StR). A very late spring migrant Western Tanager was located in Cibola NWR 18 Jun (AL, AF).

South-Central

Compiled by Steve Ganley

Abbreviations: Agua Fria River (AFR), Gilbert Water Ranch (GWR), Glendale Recharge Ponds (GRP), Hassayampa River Preserve (HRP)

After a cooler than normal spring, it seemed that as June first arrived a switch was turned on and the temperature got hot in a hurry. There were over 15 days in the season with temperatures of 110◦ F or higher. This seemed to keep a lot of birders home or going to higher elevations outside the region, which translated into few bird reports. Generally, the summer season is thought of as nesting time in most areas, but in the South-Central region the desert birds have already fledged their first brood by 1 Jun and are waiting for the summer monsoon rains to arrive before they do further nesting.

Summering waterfowl included a Greater White-fronted Goose that remained in Ahwatukee all winter and was still around 5 Jul (PD), providing a very casual summer record for the state. Rare summering waterfowl included two American Wigeons that remained at the AFR throughout the period (MHe) and a Northern Pintail at the GWR 25 Jun (BBt). Three Redheads were at the GRP 23 Jul (MHe).

Wandering imm. Brown Pelicans are rare to uncommon but expected during this time of year. A Brown Pelican was at the Tempe Town L., 3-5 Jun (MWeb) and possibly the same bird was there 25 Jul. In far west Maricopa Co., an immature was along I-8 near Mile Marker 100 on 29 Jul (GWa). Another immature was observed along I-8 at Painted Rock Rd. 31 Jul (GN, DPo).

Swainson’s Hawks are casual to irregular at this season so one in the area of Paloma Ranch 22 Jul was of note (TC) as were the six birds south of the town of Maricopa 4 Jul (NL). Also in this area of Pinal Co. the same day were a White-tailed Kite and an out-of-habitat Zone-tailed Hawk (NL).

Few summering shorebirds were reported. Some southward migrants arrived in July, which is typical for many species. The first Solitary Sandpiper was rather early at Paloma Ranch 10 Jul (MHe). A Greater Yellowlegs reported from the GRP 22-27 Jun and the same individual possibly into early July (MHe) was very unusual as this species is usually absent from the region in June. A Willet at the AFR 27 Jun (MHe) was either a late spring migrant or an early fall bird (MHe). Three Lesser Yellowlegs were at the Gila Bend power plant 31 Jul (GN, DPo). Other first-of-season reports included a single Baird's Sandpiper from the GWR 24 Jul (JKo) and a single Stilt Sandpiper at the GRP 24 Jul (MHe). Among the early arrivals were four female Wilson’s Phalaropes 27 Jun (MHe) at the GRP, which is typical as the males are left behind on the breeding grounds to attend the nests. There was a high number of 190 Wilson’s Phalaropes at the Gila Bend power plant 31 Jul (GN, DPo). The female Red Phalarope found in late May molting into alternate plumage remained at the Higley Rd. wastewater treatment ponds in Gilbert through 3 Jun (RWz).

Franklin’s Gulls are uncommon migrants in spring and taper off by the first of June, so one at the Tempe Town L. 5 Jun (MWeb) was getting on the late side. Last year Least Terns nested at the AFR but this year only a single bird was seen off and on until at least 25 Jun (m.ob.). Two Forster’s Terns were also seen at the AFR 11 Jun and one was there through 27 Jun (MHe). One of these birds was in alternate plumage.

Reports of Yellow-billed Cuckoos seemed more widespread than usual this year statewide and in the greater Phoenix metro area, included three observations in residential settings where they are rarely reported. The latest of these unusual reports was one in Chandler 14 Jul (VB). The odd pair of Acorn Woodpeckers observed carrying food into a palm tree cavity at Arizona State University in Tempe in May (PD) was last reported 3 Jun (JN). This is when temperatures began to climb well above normal and at this exceptionally low elevation the nesting attempt likely failed. A rare and local breeder in Maricopa Co., a singing Willow Flycatcher along the Salt R. across from Coon Bluff Recreation Area 19 Jun suggests at least a summering male on territory (JMil). Another male remained on territory along Palm L. at the HRP through much of the period (m. ob.). Tropical Kingbirds were at their western outpost of the HRP with a pair there 2 Jul (TDeB, JKo).

A truly out-of-season sighting was of a Gray Catbird from a residential area in Paradise Valley 9 Jul (ATa). There are no previous summer records from Maricopa Co. A singing male Northern Parula was at the Seven Springs Recreation Area 14-20 Jun in an area where there were a couple of spring sightings of a singing male, indicating that it may have been the same individual (fide JHol). Indigo Buntings are typically rare but apparently increasing local breeders in the region, so as many as five singing males detected 7 Jul along Mesquite Wash along Hwy. 87 were noteworthy (JKo, TDeB). Lawrence’s Goldfinches were widespread in the winter with many staying over into the spring and unprecedented numbers attempting to nest (see spring 2010 report). As we entered summer the reports dropped dramatically with only a few reports of postnesting birds coming in from the HRP through at least 12 Jun (MHe).

Gila

Compiled by Brian Ison

Monsoon rains were about average during the summer period and much of this rain fell well into July. Even then, however, rainfall levels were much higher than last summer. Roosevelt L. was still nearly full at the end of July, although San Carlos L. dropped from a high of 30% full in May to 20% in late July.

Brown Pelican sightings continued in Gila Co. during the summer and this species seems to be getting more regular at San Carlos L. Very rare in the state in June, three adults were found 3 Jun (MPo, GR, MSt) at San Carlos L. A single Neotropic Cormorant was a nice find at San Carlos L. 3 Jul (MSt, GR). Neotropic Cormorant numbers are increasing in Arizona but are unexpected at San Carlos L. The continued high water levels at Roosevelt L. likely assisted in an increase in the number of nesting pairs of Double-crested Cormorants this season. Annual monitoring of the aquatic birds nesting at this reservoir produced a record 199 occupied cormorant nests in three colonies (fide TC).

A single Northern Pygmy-Owl was heard next to a forest clearing in Pine 20 Jun (BIs). This species is not reported often in Gila Co. although suitable habitat exists in the region, especially along the Mogollon Rim and in higher elevation forests.

A rare and local summer resident north of Pima and Cochise counties, a Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher was seen in Reynolds Canyon in the Sierra Ancha Mtns. 6 Jun (MPl, KSt), a drainage in which they have nested in the recent past. This species is thought to be expanding northward in Arizona, but there are few nesting records in Gila Co. There is plenty of good Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher habitat in shady canyons and sycamore-lined drainages, but birders rarely visit these locations.

A probable late migrant female American Redstart was a good find at Jake’s Corner north of Roosevelt L. 5 Jun (MA). This warbler species is a casual visitor in Gila Co. in June.

A rare hybrid Lazuli x Indigo Bunting was surprisingly encountered on the See Canyon Trail north of Christopher Cr. 14 Jun (JKo, JMil). This male hybrid was in full song and possibly on territory. There were several reports of such hybrids in Arizona and New Mexico this summer, including one sighting from just southwest of Gila Co. in Mesquite Wash (TDeB). Rare in summer, a male Indigo Bunting was heard singing in See Canyon 14 Jun (JKo, JMil). Indigo Buntings were reported to be breeding in the See Canyon area (BBS) in the 1990s, but no Lazuli Bunting nesting has been reported here.

A Vesper Sparrow was a good find at the Q Ranch in far ne. Gila Co. near the Gila-Coconino-Navajo intersection 7 Jun (CD, KFu et al.) and 21 Jun (KFu). Although this sighting was near the peak breeding date, it is not clear if this was a lingering migrant or a local breeder. During the Atlas surveys this sparrow species was not found to be nesting in Gila Co. or below the Mogollon Rim. However, it was confirmed to be nesting just northwest of the Q Ranch in Navajo Co.

Southeast

Compiled by Mark Stevenson

Abbreviations: HTM (Holy Trinity Monastery, Saint David), Sweetwater (Sweetwater Wetlands, Tucson), Willcox (Lake Cochise and Twin Lakes Golf Course, Willcox)

Tucson recorded its tenth warmest June and seventh warmest July on record. No rain was recorded at the official Tucson site in June while July was the 36th wettest on record there. The “water year” beginning in October 2009 maintained a nearly .5 inch deficit compared to the average by the end of July, yet the calendar year 2010 rainfall had a nearly two-inch surplus. This would be expected to have created favorable nesting conditions for birds that had survived the prolonged drought but nesting data remain scant. Nestings of note in this report include Gadwall, Wild Turkey, Least Grebe, Short-tailed Hawk, Berylline Hummingbird, and Violet-crowned Hummingbird. Rarity highlights to be found below include Least Grebes, Flame-colored Tanagers, Yellow Grosbeak, and Black-vented Oriole.

Black-bellied Whistling-Duck is seldom reported in Cochise Co. so one at Benson STP 29 Jul (LEp) was of interest. At Safford, two Snow Geese had lingered well into spring at the Graham Co. Regional Park and one, the adult, was still present 13 Jul (MSt, MPo), suggesting that it was injured or ill. Wood Ducks have proven to be regular in small numbers in summer in the region. A female was at Patagonia L. 8-25 Jun (MMa), and two males appeared 25 Jun+ (MSt) at Sweetwater and promptly molted out of breeding plumage. Although they are “rare” in the region in summer, Gadwalls have nested on occasion. A pair summering at Palo Duro Creek Golf Course in Nogales was noted to have eight ducklings 15 Jul (MMa), at the same location where they were first found nesting in 1999. The only truly rare duck of the season was a female Greater Scaup at Willcox that continued from late spring through to the fall season (m. ob.). Each summer, small numbers of ducks of species that typically depart to summer farther north are reported in the region. This season’s sightings not mentioned above are summarized in the following table.

A Ring-necked Pheasant at Duncan 16 Jul (MPo, MSt) was in an area where they were found breeding during the Atlas surveys but are seldom reported. Scattered reports of seemingly anomalous Wild Turkeys in the San Pedro R. valley have been occurring for years. This summer a turkey nest with seven eggs was found in the San Pedro RNCA south of Palominas 30 Jun (M. Radke fide TC), the first known turkey nesting for the RNCA.

Very exciting was the discovery of two Least Grebes at Peña Blanca L. 20 Jul+ (Tucson Audubon Society field trip led by CC; ph. MSh). In addition to being the first documented record of this species in the state since 2006, it was the first simultaneous occurrence of more than one individual at the same location in Arizona in many years. More excitement was to follow, when on 22 Jul the male was noted to be moving vegetation and apparently constructing a nest on a partially submerged willow tree (JBoc, ACo, MSt). Copulation was observed at the nest 24 Jul (GO), an egg was noted 25 Jul (L. Mukai, ph. B. Clements), and two eggs 27 Jul (DT). By 30 Jul there was no sign of the nest but the adults persisted. It seems that a natural influx of a large volume of water from a rainstorm into the partly filled lake had submerged or washed away the tree and nest. This represents the first directly documented nesting of this species in Arizona, although nesting was indicated in 1964 by the presence of seven individuals on a pond on the west side of the nearby Tumacacori Mtns (S. Levy).

Eared Grebe have nested at Willcox when conditions were favorable but remain “rare” in the region in summer. Four were present at Willcox 9-13 Jul (B. DiLabio), a favored summer location for the species. A Clark’s Grebe at Roper L. SP 5 Jun (GR, MPo, MSt) was casual in summer. The expected summer influx of Brown Pelicans was small scale this year. Reports included one continuing from spring at Patagonia L. through the season (m. ob.), one at Willcox 16 Jul (K. McGiver), and one at Benson STP 28 Jul (S. Barnes). (A few others were reported without dates or specific locations.) The only true outlier Neotropic Cormorants reported were two at Graham Co. Regional Park, Safford 5 Jun (MSt, MPo, GHR). At Patagonia L. the high count of Neotropic Cormorants was nine 23 Jul (MMa) and at Tucson the high count was nine at Sweetwater 31 Jul (MSt). Numbers in this region remain paltry compared to those in greater Phoenix. Though not regionally remarkable, a Cattle Egret at Duncan 15 Jul (MPo, MSt) was one of few reported from Greenlee Co. Continuing the recent dearth, there were no reports of vagrant herons or egrets in the region.

Rarely reported from Cochise Co. a well described Black Vulture was just north of the international border at Coronado NM 31 Jul (J. Fitch, D. Bray). There are few confirmed nesting records of Black Vultures in Arizona, so two nestlings near fledgling stage was a great find near Sonoita Cr. below Patagonia L. dam 10 Jul (ph. SB). Osprey is “casual” in the region in summer, so intermittent nonoverlapping reports of single Osprey(s) in the Avra Valley, at Tucson’s Kennedy Park, near Bear Canyon in ne. Tucson, and Lakeside Park (JH, MKl) were of interest. Was there more than one Osprey? There were few reports of White-tailed Kite: one at Tumacacori NHP 3 Jul (M. Norris, LN), two at Arivaca Cienega 5 Jul (JSab), and one south of San Simon 28 Jul (M. Boatwright). Mississippi Kites were first found nesting along the Gila R. at Duncan in 2009; two were there again this year 16 Jul (MSt, MPo). Away from known nesting areas, single Mississippi Kites wandered to the Babocomari R. at Bowers Rd.5 Jun (MHe), along Interstate 10 west of U.S. 191 on 6 Jun (JM), and at Rancho Gulag, Palominas 20 Jun (GLe). At the margins of typical reports, a Common Black-Hawk was again reported in the Santa Catalina Mtns. at Rose Canyon L. 28 Jun+ (JSab) and two were at Duncan 16 Jul (MSt, MPo). Short-tailed Hawks were reported all season in the Chiricahua Mtns in the vicinity of Barfoot Park (m. ob.; ph. J. Garrett). The peak count of four 18 Jul (HS et al.) included two adults and two juveniles, indicating successful nesting again at this location. Following last year’s first record in the Santa Catalina Mtns. and scattered sightings, a Short-tailed was photographed near Mt. Bigelow 14 Jun (ph. CCa) and reported sporadically through the season. The only report of Crested Caracara away from nesting areas came from Avra Valley STP where two came in for a drink 18 Jun (JH). (There were no reports of them from the Santa Cruz Flats.)

Virginia Rails nest elsewhere in the region and are not expected in Cochise Co. before migrants arrive in August so one heard at Sierra Vista EOP 4 Jul+ was surprising (EW et al.). The first migrant Sora report came from Sweetwater 25 Jul (MBr), an unremarkable date. In the past, Snowy Plovers have summered and nested at Willcox (between 1972 and the early 1980s) but they are casual summer visitors nowadays. Up to two were present there 6-15 Jun (ph. RWe, RFi; DT); one of which had been banded at Rosamorada, Nayarit, Mexico 2 Feb 2010 (fide RWe). Away from Willcox, reports of nesting Black-necked Stilts with juveniles came from Sweetwater 2 Jun (ACo) and Benson STP 9 Jul (ARi).

Among the “rare but regular” shorebirds were single Semipalmated Sandpipers at Willcox 14-24 Jul (RT), Avra Valley STP 20-26 Jul (RWr), Benson STP 29 Jul (S. Barns et al.) and Willcox 30 Jul (ph. DSt) and two Short-billed Dowitchers at Avra Valley STP 40 Jul (JH). Franklin’s Gulls are rare in early June and then casual during the rest of the summer in the region. Up to five adults were at Willcox 1-10 Jun (RT et al.) and one non-adult was there 28 Jun-2 Jul (D. Estabrooks). California Gull is casual at any season. Two were at Willcox 1 Jun (RT) and one was reported there 5-8 Jun (GR, MPo, MSt). Least Tern is casual but not unexpected in the region in June and early July. Single adults were found at Sweetwater 16 Jun (ph. RHo) and again 4 Jul (MSt). A Caspian Tern was a casual visitor at Patagonia L. 1 Jun (MMa). Among the more numerous terns, the first southbound Black Tern report came from Willcox 25 Jul (TC), an unremarkable date, and the first Forster’s Tern was just barely early at Willcox 31 Jul (B. Walsh).

Although Band-tailed Pigeons are known to descend to lower elevation riparian areas in search of elderberries and other food sources, 10 at Cluff Ranch WA 19 Jun (TC) were of interest due to the small number of reports from that area. The only Ruddy Ground-Dove report came from the San Pedro RNCA south of Hwy 90 25 Jun (SB fide TC). For the first time since 2000, there were no confirmed reports of Buff-collared Nightjar during this spring and summer.

White-eared Hummingbird is a “rare” summer resident of pine-oak woodland. A few were present in three of the Sky Island ranges this season. One was at Portal 1-9 Jun (RAR, ph. RWe), up to three were at the Beatty’s in Miller Canyon, Huachuca Mtns. 6 Jun+ (TBe), a female was banded atop Mt. Lemmon (where it is accidental) 13 Jun (E. Fazio), one was along South Fork, Cave Cr. 21 Jul (JM), one was in Garden Canyon, Huachuca Mtns. 26 Jul (J. Roberts), and one was in Portal 29 Jul-3 Aug (RAR, RWe). Berylline Hummingbird is considered “casual” but has probably been “rare” in recent years and this summer graced three Sky Island ranges. In the Santa Rita Mtns. at Madera Canyon, a female was present all season at the Kubo Cabins (m. ob.) and a male was reported there 9 Jun-22 Jul (ph. LHal). This was likely one of the same Beryllines that was seen at the nearby Chuparosa Inn in early Jul (L. Calvo). In the Huachuca Mtns., up to two were present at Beatty’s all season (TBe et al.) and although a female was repeatedly observed obtaining dog hair, no nest or young were reported there. In the Chiricahua Mtns. in Cave Cr. Canyon, one was reported 10 Jul (R. Meneses fide D. Estabrooks) and a reported nest was occupied near Stewart CG by 25 Jul+ (ph. TC et al.). Away from long-term typical locations in Guadalupe Canyon and along Sonoita Cr., Violet-crowned Hummingbirds were reported from Bisbee (MTu), lower Ramsey Canyon (J&MH), lower Carr Canyon (H. Brodkin), Garden Canyon (SH), Madera Kubo Cabins (MA), nesting in Ramsey Canyon Preserve (CCa), and Ash Canyon B & B (MJB). Most notable was an active nest discovered in an oak tree in the Pima Co. portion of Madera Canyon 18-20 Jul (J. Taylor, ph. LHal), apparently a first documented nesting for the canyon and the county. Banders in the Hummingbird Monitoring Network noted a big movement of Magnificent Hummingbirds in the Chiricahua Mtns. with 57 at W. Turkey Cr. 11 Jun (S. Wethington) and 45 at Paradise 13 Jun (JLew). A Plain-capped Starthroat reported from the Casa de San Pedro B & B, Hereford 12 Jun (J. & A. Amir) was not relocated; the report will be reviewed by the ABC. Lucifer Hummingbirds continued at Ash Canyon B & B all season (MJB) with reports of presumed nesting. The lone male Lucifer in the w. foothills of the Dragoon Mtns. was present through 9 Jul (ARi), a male and female were present sporadically all season in lower Ramsey Canyon (J&MH), and a male was at an Elgin feeder 6 Jun (J. Danzenbaker). The Hummingbird Monitoring Network found low hummingbird numbers across the region, with Black-chinned Hummingbirds particularly low. This may have been due to improved wild nectar sources or decreased numbers of birds or both. The first southbound Rufous Hummingbird reported was a male at E. Whitetail Canyon, Chiricahua Mtns. 29 Jun (RT), when “casual”. The only Allen’s Hummingbirds reported were two banded near Harshaw Cr. 13 Jul (L.Rogers, S. Wethington). In the hybrid category, the identification of an apparent Costa’s X Lucifer hummingbird at Ash Canyon B&B 12 Jul+ (ph. CMe) was aided by a report of the bird singing a Costa’s song in August (N. Bonomo); this is said to be the first recognized individual of its kind (SW). At Fort Huachuca an apparent Broad-billed X Black-chinned hummingbird was found 25 Jul (L. Davis).

The annual count of Elegant Trogons in the Cave Cr. drainage in the Chiricahua Mtns. on 19 Jun turned up no fewer than 11 trogons, down from 15 last year. (Although access to South Fork was allowed, count efforts were somewhat hampered by the Horseshoe Fire which was burning in the area at the time.) A single Green Kingfisher was reported in the Hwy 90 area (primarily Kingfisher Pond) of the San Pedro RNCA 13 Jun+ (PC, PS).

A Pacific-slope Flycatcher reported along Sonoita Cr. below Patagonia L. dam 20 Jun (SB) was a late migrant (or possibly attempting to summer locally). Apparently a first for Greenlee Co., two Northern Beardless-Tyrannulets were in riparian habitat along the Gila R. at the Old Safford Bridge (Gila Box RNCA) 16 Jul (MPo, MSt), suggesting further range expansion by this species. At Rose Canyon L. in the Santa Catalina Mtns. the Buff-breasted Flycatcher found in May was joined by a second bird in the same territory 16 Jun-25 Jul (PKl) raising the possibility of nesting. Definitive information on nesting was not obtained, but a nest thought to belong to these birds was observed. It has been many years since the species nested in the Catalina Mtns. A territorial pair of Ash-throated Flycatchers along the upper Control Rd. at 7,800 feet on Mt. Lemmon 5 Jun (MSt, MPo) was at a high elevation for this species. Tropical Kingbirds have been slowly spreading in the region. A pair nested again at HTM, with adults feeding fledglings by 20 Jul (SH). Multiple pairs (probably three) were present at Sweetwater/Roger Rd. STP in Tucson all season (m. ob.) and a pair continued along Tanque Verde Wash west of Wentworth Rd. in e. Tucson (MSt) all season and a second pair was found east of Wentworth Rd. 29 Jul (RPa). A straggler Tropical Kingbird was heard at Randolph Park, Tucson 2 Jun (MPo, MSt). (The Santa Cruz R. from Rio Rico downstream past Tubac remains the stronghold of this species.) Reports of Thick-billed Kingbirds away from typical areas were more numerous than usual and included one at Rio Rico ponds 3 Jun (RBa, MB), one at HTM 5-17 Jun and 29 Jun (MMa), one well east to the east end of Aravaipa Canyon, Graham Co. 12 Jun (JM), one at Huachuca Canyon 10 Jul (MK), and two just west of Walker Canyon, Pajarito Mtns. 27 Jul (DT).

Rose-throated Becard has declined in Arizona to the point of not being predictably found anywhere at any time of year, so the report of one on private property along Sonoita Cr. below Patagonia 29 Jul (SB) was of interest. A singing White-eyed Vireo at Dudleyville 18 Jun (ph. JHol) was a good find. This vagrant to the region has been found more frequently in recent years. A Cassin’s Vireo in Carr Canyon 31 Jul (SH) was an early migrant. Mexican Jays were said to be in low numbers in Cave Cr. Canyon during the trogon census (RT) and elsewhere (MSt), possibly due to the prolonged drought. A couple Tree Swallows near Oracle Junction 10 Jul (DJ) were early for southbound migrants. Unexpected was a Cave Swallow at Willow Tank, Portal 6 Jul (RT). Though they have been spreading west from Texas, they remain accidental in Arizona. Bridled Titmouse was also said to be in low numbers in Cave Cr. Canyon (RT). Several experienced observers noted low numbers of Black-tailed Gnatcatchers in the region this season. The plummeting numbers of Black-capped Gnatcatcher reports continued this summer until one was seen along Sonoita Cr. downstream from Patagonia 15 Jun (SB) and renewed sightings of a pair came from Montosa Canyon, Santa Rita Mtns. 28 Jul+ (JY). The pattern of expansion and contraction of this species in Arizona has been seen before and may be repeating.

Gray Catbird is a casual to rare visitor to the region at any season, so one in Paradise 23-24 Jun (ph. JLew) was a good find. A juv. Orange-crowned Warbler near Barfoot Lookout, Chiricahua Mtns. 24 Jul (TC) was remarkable as it suggested local fledging; this species was not found nesting in this range during the Atlas surveys. Several Northern Parulas were found this season, all males. One was singing at the mouth of Hell Hole Canyon, Aravaipa Cr. 12 Jun (JM), another was singing in Garden Canyon 19 Jun (ph. SH), yet another was singing at HTM 20 Jun-20 Jul (JM) and one was at Beatty’s in Miller Canyon 21 Jun (ph. K. Stafford). Another rare-but-regular warbler, single Black-and-Whites were found along the Santa Cruz. R. at Carmen 7 Jun (DSt et al.), and along the Carrie Nation Mine Trail, Madera Canyon 25 Jun (JY). Yet another rare-but-regular warbler species in Arizona, an imm. male American Redstart stayed at Sopori Ranch w. of Amado 30 Jun-6 Aug and molted (K. Groschuf). Casual transient Ovenbirds were reported at Tumacacori 2 Jul (LN) and Arivaca L. 5 Jul (JSab). A singing MacGillivray’s Warbler along the Gila R. at Thatcher 10 Jun (TC) was a very late migrant in the lowlands. A male Hooded Warbler along the Aspen Trail, Santa Catalina Mtns. 27 Jul (T. Abalow) was “rare”. In Cave Cr. Canyon, Painted Redstarts were also reportedly diminished in numbers during the trogon census (RT). A Painted Redstart was out of place during the breeding season along Sonoita Cr. below Patagonia L. 20 Jun (SB). There were no reports of Rufous-capped Warblers all season.

By late May, the male Flame-colored Tanager in Madera Canyon had become infrequent at the Kubo feeders; he was last reported 12 Jun (m. ob.). Will he return next spring? A young male Flame-colored Tanager was somewhat out of habitat in a Portal yard 12-14 Jun (ph. RWe, sr. RAR). The saga of increasing numbers of Rufous-winged Sparrows in Cochise Co. took another step forward when a singing individual was seen carrying food and begging was heard at San Bernardino NWR 17 Jul (RWe). (See Birds of Arizona for details on the history of Rufous-winged Sparrow in Arizona.) The only other reports from the county this summer were of some “present again this year” at Saint David 29 Jun+ (fide RB). A Rufous-crowned Sparrow was in the flatlands away from nesting sites in e. Tucson 25 Jul (BN). A Yellow Grosbeak found in Rodeo, NM near Stateline Rd. flew east into Arizona 5 Jun (ph. M. Moe), making a potential two-state record. Four Rose-breasted Grosbeaks were reported 12-23 Jun, down from recent jackpot level numbers. Rare in the Chiricahua Mtns. region, a Varied Bunting was singing along the Portal-Paradise Rd. 1 Jul (MD). Most unexpected was a Black-vented Oriole spotted along Hwy 86 south of Willcox near mile marker 349 28 Jul (K. Heindel-Levinson). If accepted this would be only the second Arizona record and one of fewer than 10 records in the U. S. Casual in the region in June, four Cassin’s Finches were reported near Prison Camp Rd., Santa Catalina Mtns. 5 Jun (CCa). Accidental in June, a female American Goldfinch visited a feeder in E. Whitetail Canyon, Chiricahua Mtns. 19 Jun (RT).

Cited observers: Moez Ali (MA), Kathy Anderson (KA), Charles Babbitt (CBab), Mary Jo Ballator (MJB), Robin Baxter (RBa), Tom Beatty (TBe), Robert Behrstock, (RB), Scott Blackman (SB), Kathleen Blair (KB), Jerry Bock (JBoc), Gary Botello (GBo), Valerie Bowman (VB), Matt Brooks (MBr), Matt Brown (MB), Bill Butler (BBt), Barbara Carlson (BC), Cliff Cathers (CCa), Peter Collins (PC), Bea Cooley (BCo), Andrew Core (ACo), Troy Corman (TC), Alan Craig (ACr), Tommy DeBardeleben, (DeB), Maya Decker (MD), DeeDee DeLorenzo (DDe), Pierre Deviche (PD), Christopher Dodge (CDo), Cynthia Donald (CD), Samantha Dorr (SD), Jon L Dunn (JLD), Lanie Epstein (LEp), Anna Fasoli (AF), Richard Filley (RFi), Richard Fray (RF), Gary Froelich (GF), Ken Furtado (KFu), Brian Gatlin (BGa), Felipe Guerrero (FG), Laurens Halsey (LHal), Stuart Healy (SH), Susanna Henry (SHe), Melanie Herring (MHe), John Higgins (JH), John & Marty Hirth (J&MH), Jack Holloway (JHol), Bob Hough (BHo), Elaine Hough (ElH), Eric Hough (ErH), Helen Howard (HHo), Rich Hoyer (RHo), Brian Ison (BIs), Doug Jenness (DJ), Elaine Johnson (EJ), Joe Kahl (JK), Phyllis Kegley (PKe), Melody Kehl (MK), Philip Kline (PKl), Mary Klinkel (MKl), Jim Kopitzke (JKo),Alex Lamoreaux (AL), Nancy Lange (NL), Chuck LaRue (CLR), Jenni Learned (JLea), Gordon Lewis (GLe), Jackie Lewis (JLew), Ian Maunsell (IM), Michael Marsden (MMa), Charles Melton (CMe),Jay Miller (JMil), Jake Mohlmann (JM), David Moll (DM), Brian Nicholas (BN), Jeanette Nickels (JN), Larry Norris (LN), Gary Nunn (GN), Gail Owings (GO), Robert Payne (RPa), Lin Piest (LP), Mike Plagens (MPl), Molly Pollock (MPo), Dave Powell (DPo), Roger Radd (RR), Debbie Rasmussen (DRa), Scott Rasmussen (SR), Arlene Ripley (ARi), Steve Ritt (StR), Sam Roberts (SRo), Gary Rosenberg (GR), Rose Anne Rowlett (RAR), John Saba (JSab), Peter Salomon (PSa), Mark Sharon (MSh), Farrish Sharon (FSh), Helen Snyder (HS), Dave Stejskal (DSt), Mark Stevenson (MSt), Karen Stucke (KSt), Andree Tarby (ATa), Rick Taylor (RT), Carl Tomoff (CT), Diane Touret (DT), Michael Turisk (MTu), Greer Waren (GWa), Richard Webster (RWe), Ellen West (EWe), George West (GW), Linda White-Trifaro (LWT), Mitchel White (MWh), Brett Whitmore (BT), Jason Wilder (JWi), Sheri Williamson (SW), Erika Wilson (EW), Robert Witzeman (RWz), Rick Wright (RWr), John Yerger (JY), Zack Zdinak (ZZ)

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