Recent Trip Reports

HAS Field Trip: Hummingbirds, August 2007

Five HAS members and an out-of-state guest had a fine morning looking at hummingbirds, led by Rick Romea and Erika Wilson, on 14 August 2007. The final tally was 30 species, with nine species of hummingbird. Considering the generally low numbers of hummingbirds this year, we were pleased that the diversity was still high. Our guest was particularly pleased with the trip, as she garnered several life hummingbirds.

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Our first “parking lot” bird was a rare dark morph Swainson’s Hawk, perched on a nearby utility pole. After admiring this elegant raptor, our group carpooled in three vehicles, with our first stop at Mary Jo Ballator’s Ash Canyon B&B. As always, Mary Jo’s lovely native plantings and numerous feeders attracted a wide variety of birds. Seated in comfortable chairs, we enjoyed the fine weather, the many flowers in bloom, and the hummers (Broad-billed, Black-chinned, Anna’s, and Rufous) zipping in and out of the mesquites and oaks, disputing the rights to the various feeders. Other birds of interest seen here were a Virginia’s Warbler, a female Ladder-backed Woodpecker, and close views of Black-headed Grosbeak.

Our next stop was at Beatty’s in Miller Canyon. The upper “controlled access site” had a mere dozen feeders, but also plenty of flowers in bloom to attract the hummingbirds. Comfortably shaded under the awning, we had really close views of Broad-billed, Black-chinned, Anna’s, and Broad-tailed Hummingbirds. The differences in both shape and shade of red in the Anna’s and Broad-tailed gorgets were noted, with golden glints coming off the male Anna’s and pink flashes from the male Broad-taileds. A little shyer, but seen several times each, were Magnificent, White-eared, and Violet-crowned Hummingbirds. One White-eared male exhibited a particularly well marked plumage. A single glimpse of a female Blue-throated Hummingbird rounded out our tally at Beatty’s feeders.

Our final stop was in Ramsey Canyon, where the feeders at the Inn were observed from the public road. We had more satisfying looks at several Blue-throated Hummingbirds, although the Berylline Hummingbird failed to show. Also present were the usual trio of Broad-billed, Black-chinned, and Anna’s Hummingbirds. A female Western Tanager was spotted, and we heard, but never saw, Painted Redstart.

Report by Erika Wilson.

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Recent Summer 2007 Bird Walks, Hikes, and Bird Banding

Here are the latest contributions from Alan Blixt.

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I went down to San Pedro House at 6 AM 8/29/2007 for birdbanding but that had been cancelled. I hooked up with Dave Beaudette and two ladies from Bisbee and, in the next 4 1/2 hours we recorded 61 species of birds! We walked Del Valle Rd, down Garden wash to Black Phoebe Pond, across to Green Kingfisher Pond, and back across the grasslands. We found many summer breeding birds that have not yet left including Bullock's Oriole, Summer and Western Tanagers, Yellow Warbler, Vermilion Flycatchers, Tropical and Cassin's Kingbirds, and Gray Hawk. We also recorded many newly arriving species such as Yellow-headed Blackbirds, Brewer's and Lark Sparrows, Lark Buntings, Belted Kingfisher, and Crissal Thrasher. We found Wison's Warblers in migration along with flocks of Black-headed Grosbeaks, Western Kingbirds, and Lazuli Buntings. We enjoyed the songs of the monsoon breeding birds: Blue Grosbeak, Cassin's Sparrow, and Botteri's Sparrow. Green Heron, a pair of Great Blue Herons, a flock of Red-winged Blackbirds, White-breasted Nuthatches, and Bewick's Wrens were also seen. We found a Regal Horned Lizard as well! Great birding on the San Pedro River!!

On August 26th Bryan Prescott and Alan Blixt led a bird walk at the Environmental Operations Park at 7 AM. What a day! We saw five raptor species including a Cooper's Hawk, a couple of Swainson's Hawks, a pair of Red-tailed Hawks, an American Kestrel, and watched a Peregrine Falcon take a Green-winged Teal out of mid-air. There were lots of shore birds in evidence as well. We saw Baird's, Western, Spotted and Least Sadpipers. Amongst a flock of about 20 Wilson's Phalaropes we spotted a Red-necked Phalarope. Also seen were a Lesser Yellowlegs, many Killdeer and a large flock of White-faced Ibis. Every Sunday we walk the wetlands, join us!

On August 25th Mike Guest led a bird walk from San Pedro House at 7 AM. We walked the grassland along Del Valle Rd and enjoyed some grassland songbirds such as Blue Grosbeak, Cassin's Sparrow, and Botteri's Sparrow. At 7:30 Alan Blixt reversed course and returned to San Pedro House to join Sandy Kunzer for an 8 AM interpretive walk. We were joined by several local folks from Bisbee and Sierra Vista. We enjoyed seeing lots of birds, flowers, caterpillars, lizards, and really enjoyed watching a grassland Box Turtle. It was a beautiful morning for a walk on the San Pedro Riparian National Consevation Area. Come take a walk with us.

On August 18th at 8 AM a group of twelve, led by Chris Long, took off on a three hour hike to Millville and to visit a couple of pertoglyf sites. We were serenaded by a beautiful Blue Grosbeak male as we began the hike. We talked about native and non-native invasive grasses, found some interesting caterpillars, and enjoyed the lovely Desert Marigolds in full bloom. Chris shared her knowlege of the Gird family, the Gird Mill, and the history of Millville and Charleston, the ghost town across the river. We saw blooming Wild Zinnia and the Jatropa ready to bloom. We talked about the rock art of the "archaic" people or the "ancient ones." We also walked to the San Pedro River and enjoyed hearing the calls of a pair of Yellow Warblers. What a great day!

On Wednesday the 15th of August Heidi Schubert and Alan Blixt led an evening interpretive walk from San Pedro House at 5:30 PM. What a beautiful evening. As we left San Pedro House to walk the grasslands the sun was in the west and the blue sky was filled with puffy white clouds. The atmosphere on the evening walks is very different from the morning walks. We found large numbers of Western Kingbirds so it appers their migration has begun. We were treated to several good looks at Vermilion Flycatchers. We also enjoyed hearing the beautiful song of many Blue Grosbeaks and watched them displaying from a variety of perches. The group of thirteen people from Canada and many places in the U.S. remarked on the lush and green scenery. We certainly live in a beautiful and changing place. The third Wednesday of each month May through October there is an evening interpretive walk from San Pedro House at 5:30 PM.

On Sunday August 12th Pat and Verna Berry and Alan Blixt led a bird walk at the Environmental Operations Park and found 39 species of birds. We really enjoyed seeing a male Ruddy Duck in breeding plumage, a Sora, and a Virginia Rail. The Peregrin Falcon was found roosting on a telephone pole and we saw White-faced Ibis and Swainson's Hawk. Every Sunday all year there are guided walks at the EOP. Come take a walk with us.

On Wednesday August 8th Dave Beaudette and Alan Blixt walked the grassland with three others and found 49 species of birds. We left San Pedro House at 7 AM and walked Del Valle Rd through the calling and singing Cassin's Sparrows, Botteri's Sparrows, Black-throated Sparrows, and Blue Grosbeaks. We saw Red-tailed and Swainson's Hawks and heard a couple of Gray Hawks calling. We also saw Lucy's Warblers, Verdin, Lark and Chipping Sparrows, and three species of Kingbirds - Cassin's, Western, and Tropical. It was too muddy to get to the river but we had a great time on the grasslands. Guided bird walks leave the San Pedro House the second Wednesday of each month at 7 AM in the summer and 8 AM in the winter. Go to sanpedroriver.org to find information on walks, hikes, and other activities.

On July 29th Pat and Verna Berry and Alan Blixt led a walk at 7 AM at the Environmental Operations Park. We were treated to 41 species including lots of Bank Swallows and several species of shorebirds. We saw several Baird's Sandpipers, a pair of Long-billed Dowitchers, a Least Sandpiper, a Western Sandpiper, a Wilson's Phalarope, and many Killdeer. Seeing a Peregren Falcon pair and a Swainson's Hawk was exciting too. EOP walks are every Sunday, you nevr know what will be there!

On July 28th Mike Guest led a bird walk from San Pedro House at 7 AM. 10 people had a great time as we recorded 44 species in about 3 hours. Particularly wnderful were the breeding grassland birds singing. We saw and heard the Cassin's and the Black-throated Sparrows and heard the Botteri's Sparrow. We heard the Yellow-billed Cuckoo but could not get a look at it. We also saw lots of Tanagers and Flycatchers. Every 2nd Sunday, 2nd Wednesday and 4th Saturday we conduct bird walks on the Conservation Area. Put us on your calendar and help us find some cool birds!

On July 21 Morris from Sonoita led a hike along Walnut Gulch at 8 AM. We met at Fairbank parking lot and walked up Walnut Gulch, just south of Fairbank. Lots of Pipevine Swallowtail butterflies were nectaring in the wash. We enjoyed the beautiful song of the "tinkling" Black-throated Sparrows. We also saw both Tropical and Cassin's Kingbirds. We tried to walk the river back but the San Pedro River was in flood. Check the web site at sanpedroriver.org or huachuca-audubon.org to findinformation about hikes, walks, outings, and bird banding.

On July 18th and July 25th I helped with bird banding at the banding station just south of Green Kingfisher Pond. On the 18th we banded about 50 birds with lots of youngsters and recaptures. It is wonderful to watch and learn about these birds and their lives. On the 25th we had rain so we did not catch as many birds. It seems someone is stealing bases for the poles that hold the nets so Heather has contacted BLM. They have contacted law enforcement to try to stop this. Even if you are not in favor of bird banding, please leave the equiptment alone so we can do our jobs.

On July 18th at 5:30 PM Teresa Miranda and Alan Blixt led an interpretive walk from San Pedro House. We were lucky to see three species of Kingbirds- Cassin's, Wesrern, and Tropical. We also enjoyed the beautiful Vermilion Flycatchers. We saw a interesting sight when we watched a Turkey Vulture hunting Green Kingfisher Pond. The Spadefoot toads were out and we saw a Box Turtle as well. We had to cut the walk short as a huge thunderstorm came in but we had lots of fun. Every 3rd Wednesday of each month from May to October we lead guided walks from San Pedro House at 5:30 PM in the evening. Try an evening walk for a change!

On Saturday July 14th Ginny Bealer and Alan Blixt led an interpretive walk from San Pedro House at 8 AM. We recorded 45 species of birds on our walk but also enjoyed seeing the Silverleaf Nightshade, the Globemallow, the Buffalo and Coyote Gourds, and the Soaptree Yuccas seeding out. Ginny and I watched the harvester ants and looked for the Yellow-billed Cuckoos which we heard but did not see. The Vermilion Flycatchers were spectacular as usual. Great fun!

On Wednesday July 11th Teresa Miranda and Alan Blixt led a bird walk at 7 AM from San Pedro House. We have guided walks at San Pedro House the second wednesday of each month all year. Nine folks accompanied us across the grasslands to Green Kingfisher Pond. From there we visited the banding site, Black Phoebe Pond and back along the river. What a wonderful walk! We recorded 47 species of birds and enjoyed watching the banders band a male Common Yellowthroat, a Yellow-breasted Chat, and a Lucy's Warbler. We also watched a Gray Hawk and a Red-tailed Hawk fight over Garden Wash. What a great day on the San Pedro River!

On Saturday July 7 Ted Mouras and Alan Blixt led the Saturday interprtive walk fron San Pedro House at 8 AM. A couple from Tucson walked with us and we enjoyed birding on the grasslands, at Green Kingfisher Pond, and back along the river. We got to see a Mexican Hognose snake, a pair of Yellow-billed Cuckoos feeding at a tent caterpillar nest, and a total of 42 bird species. Every Saturday we host a walk from San Pedro House all year. Come take a walk with us.

Reports by Alan Blixt

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2nd Sunday Bird Walk From San Pedro River Inn, July 8, 2007

With the summer monsoon season getting underway, bird activity along the San Pedro River was particularly high. A Peregrine Falcon chasing potential competitors as well as prey provided one of the highlights of this outing. A pair of Yellow-billed Cuckoos provided yet another. Meanwhile, a nest box full of young Barn Owls is a treat in almost any season. While we did not hear or see Gray Hawk, unusual in that they have been present reliably in this area for months, we did enjoy Swainson's Hawk soaring overhead.

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The usual assortment of colorful breeding birds were conspicuous along the river, including numerous Vermilion Flycatchers, Summer Tanagers, Blue Grosbeaks, Yellow-breasted Chats, and Yellow Warblers. A pair of Brown-crested Flycatchers were both heard and seen well among the cottonwoods of the gallery forest, while Ash-throated Flycatchers were seen more toward the forest edge. Cassin's and Western Kingbirds were active throughout. The haunting call of Common Ground-Doves penetrated the riparian forest, while the drumming of Red-shafted Flickers, as well as that of Gila and Ladder-backed Woodpeckers provided the percussion section for this pastoral symphony. Loggerhead Shrike, Song Sparrows, Abert's Towhees, and Black Phoebes were also present in good numbers. The precocial young of Gambel's Quail and of Mexican Mallards dutifully trailed behind the parents.

During the walk, some of the participants recounted their sighting of Lawrence's Goldfinches, an unusual bird for this area in Summer. As it is, this species is virtually at its eastern limit here -- but normally in winter! Yet, as if to confirm their record of this bird, I found a couple at the thistle feeder in my backyard during the week following.

The next 2nd Sunday Bird Walk is scheduled to depart from the San Pedro River Inn at 7:00 a.m. on Sunday, August 12, 2007. Once again, birders of all levels of experience are welcome to join us!

Report by Trip Leader: Robert Weissler

Meet at San Pedro River Inn. Hide directions...

The San Pedro River Inn is located east of the San Pedro River on Hereford Road about 3 miles north of State Highway 92 and two miles southeast of Hereford Road Bridge over the San Pedro River. Look for the Inn's sign. Drive downhill toward the Inn. There is limited parking to the left by the cabins, but there is additional parking on BLM property to the right by the hay barn if needed.

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Carr Canyon, June 7, 2007

Despite strong winds most of the morning, twelve HAS members and an out-of-state guest had a fine morning exploring Carr Canyon, led by Mick Guest, on 07 June 2007. The final tally was 36 species, which we all felt was remarkable considering the winds. Our guest was particularly pleased with the trip, as he garnered two life birds—Greater Pewee and Buff-breasted Flycatcher at the Reef Townsite campground in the late morning.

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Our group carpooled in three high-clearance vehicles, which made the bumpy, twisty climb up the Reef Road relatively easy for the riders, thanks to our three intrepid drivers (Mel Amieh, Teresa Miranda, and Joe Woodley). Our first stop at the Reef Townsite campground was brief due to howling winds, so we moved on to Ramsey Vista campround. Our way was blocked by a newly downed pine tree Lying athwart the road. In a fine group effort, the tree trunk was broken in two and the upper half pulled off the road, allowing us to reach our goal. It was just a windy at Ramsey Vista, but hiking down toward Comfort Spring we were sheltered from the full force of the wind.

The birding throughout the morning was fairly slow, with long gaps between birds, but we found a Red-faced Warbler foraging close to the trail; saw a couple of distant, flying Band-tailed Pigeons; watched two Steller’s Jays near the dry spring, and listened to a calling Cordilleran Flycatcher during our hike to and from Comfort Spring. Back at the vehicles it was decided that each group would pursue birds independently on the way back down. Additions to the list from these separate groups included Arizona Woodpecker, Greater Pewee, Buff-breasted Flycatcher, Dusky-capped Flycatcher, and Hermit Thrush. The warbler count rose to four species with the addition of Black-throated Gray, Grace’s, and Painted Redstart. Both Hepatic and Western Tanagers were seen, and a Yellow-eyed Junco was in full song in a pine. Most tantalizing was a female bunting seen briefly, but thought to be an Indigo Bunting.

Report by: Erika Wilson

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Miller Canyon, May 5, 2007

Seven HAS members spent a windy morning hiking up Miller Canyon on 05 May 2007, followed by a spell watching hummingbirds at Beatty’s feeders. Our thanks to the Beatty’s for permission to bird their orchard and CAS site, and use of the back gate, making our field trip much more enjoyable.

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Due to the wind, the first mile or so of hiking yielded few birds, but things started to pick up after the first stream crossing. In this area we had good looks at several Red-faced Warblers, including one carrying nesting material in its beak. Other warblers seen during the morning were Black-throated Gray, Townsend’s, Grace’s, Wilson’s, and Painted Redstart.

The highlight of our walk, however, was having Dieter Kamm find a Spotted Owl just off the path, perched in recently leafed out Bigtooth Maples, at eye level. We quickly realized there were two birds, and we watched them with delight for some little time.

At the CAS hummingbird feeders we saw Broad-billed, Magnificent, Black-chinned, Anna’s, and Broad-tailed Hummingbirds at close quarters. This site is always worth visiting, even if we were just a bit too early for the White-eared Hummingbirds, which were first reported a few days later.

Report by: Erika Wilson

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Hereford Bridge, May 13, 2007

With a new Hereford Bridge parking lot and trailhead established by the BLM on the west side of the river, I was curious to see what opportunities there are for exploring the birds and wildlife from that side.

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While there is only a quarter mile stretch of the river south of the bridge before you reach private property, that stretch was rich with migrant and breeding birds. Many Bullock's Orioles, Western Tanagers, Black-headed Grosbeaks, Abert's Towhees, Vermilion Flycatchers, Gambel's Quail, Yellow-breasted Chats, and a Verdin were low and close in the riparian shrubs. Warblers were conspicuous too with Yellow, Wilson's, and Lucy's seen at close range. A female Lazuli Bunting, a Warbling Vireo, Ash-throated and Brown-crested Flycatchers, Cassin's Kingbird, and a Pacific-slope Flycatcher were also conspicuous. Black-lored "oriantha" White-crowned Sparrows were quite numerous as they stopped on their journey to the Rocky Mountains.

Meanwhile, north from the bridge on the west side of the river, the terrain is uneven but open, owing to a fire several years ago. Nevertheless, I saw some terrific birds close to the bridge. Bell's Vireo was singing incessantly from a bushy willow, so I stopped to try to get a decent look at it. With a little squeaking, I managed to see the small, but hooked bill, the light lores, and overall drab, pale gray, diminutive vireo. Its vocalizations are quite unlike that of Gray Vireo or Hutton's Vireo, while the habitat is different as well. Adjacent to the bridge, a pair of Summer Tanagers were cavorting. A commotion drew my attention to a pair of Western Kingbirds attempting to drive off an adult Gray Hawk flying among the cottonwoods nearby.

To round out a very pleasant morning of birding, I stopped by the San Pedro River Inn where a Tropical Kingbird has returned once again.

Report by: Robert Weissler

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Hummingbird Workshop, Ash Canyon, April 2007

Over a dozen HAS members had a splendid morning in Mary Jo Ballator’s garden on 11 April 2007, learning about hummingbird identification under the tutelage of Rick Romea, David Beaudette, and Mary Jo Ballator.

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Focusing on females, the leaders emphasized bill shape, body posture, and tail movements, in combination with flank color, as a means of sorting out the different species. Female Black-chinned, Anna’s, and Lucifer Hummingbirds were worked thoroughly, but we did not ignore the male Broad-billed, Magnificent, and Rufous Hummingbirds also present.

Nor did we neglect the other wonderful birds in the garden, with a Whiskered Screech-Owl peering out of a nest box, Lazuli Buntings at a seed feeder, and both Scott’s and Hooded Orioles coming to the jelly pots being favorites. Close, admiring looks at Acorn, Ladder-backed, and Arizona Woodpeckers were made, and a Bridled Titmouse made a cameo appearance. Our morning total was 37 species, with the last folks out seeing an adult Gray Hawk float over the yard and parking area.

Report by: Erika Wilson

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Sierra Vista EOP, March 2007

Leaders Mike Guest and Erika Wilson had the maximum turn-out of twenty HAS members and guests for a weekday walk around the Sierra Vista EOP on 08 March 2007. With such a large group, we split into two parties, working in opposite directions around the ponds.

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The first difference we noted from the regular Sunday walks here was the noise of the cement plant to the northwest of the EOP, which made hearing the birds more difficult than usual. By morning’s end we had tallied 49 species, including ten duck species, and fine views of all four rail species—Virginia Rail, Sora, Common Moorhen, and Am. Coot. The best shorebirds were three Wilson’s Snipe, while other outstanding birds were a male Vermilion Flycatcher, a Tree Swallow, many Marsh Wrens (heard more often than seen), Mountain Bluebirds, Am. Pipits, a Common Yellowthroat, and six sparrow species. The several thousand Yellow-headed Blackbirds were voted the most popular bird of the trip.

Report by: Erika Wilson

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Empire-Cienega RCA, Santa Cruz Co., February 2007

Nine HAS members went by car caravan to the BLM’s Empire-Cienega RCA on 15 February 2007.

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Our first stop was on Upper Elgin Road, overlooking the southeast unit below Route 82. Rick Romea pointed out a singing Vesper Sparrow, a song we don’t hear too often because they don’t breed in our area. There was also a Red-tailed Hawk at a nest on a utility pole, plus Loggerhead Shrike, Chihuahuan Raven, Brewer’s Sparrow, Black-throated Sparrow, and Savannah Sparrow. Next we turned off the main road onto the dirt track leading to a cattle watering station where larks and longspurs had been reported. There were other birders there already, and there were mixed flocks of Horned Larks and longspurs, but the birds were rather distant. We decided to come back later after birding in the north part of the RCA.

Retracing our steps to Route 82, we drove to Sonoita, then north on Route 83 to the west entrance. Driving into toward the old Empire Ranch, we saw N. Harriers, Red-tailed Hawks, and American Kestrels. Next to the stock pens we found a mix of blackbirds and doves. Parking at Las Cienegas, we walked up the creek, seeing the usual woodland birds. At the far end we found a pair of Great Horned Owls perched in a huge cottonwood. Walking back, we added Green-tailed and Abert’s Towhees to our list, plus a bright male N. Cardinal. Eating lunch under the trees next to the parking lot, we were surprised to find another Great Horned Owl perched overhead!

Next we drove south through the center of the RCA, adding Merlin and Greater Roadrunner. Back at the southeast unit, the wind had picked up quite a bit, which had the desired effect of bringing the grassland birds closer to us. We found both Chestnut-collared and McCown’s Longspurs among the hundreds of Horned Larks. Our final tally was 38 species.

Report by: Erika Wilson

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Patagonia Lake State Park, December 2006

Cool, crisp, still, with reflections in the lake. This was the weather for HAS's 7th annual boating, birding and walking trip to Patagonia Lake State Park.

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Each year this is an opportunity to take advantage of birding from a quiet, slow moving pontoon boat captained by Ron Hummel whose intimate knowledge of the local birds and their preferred lurking places, presents an opportunity to observe species which are uncommon or completely missing from the most visited places in our San Pedro valley. Merganzers, Common moorhens, Night herons, a golden eagle, Peregrine falcons, coots that approached the boat in apparent attempts to mooch handouts, the opportunity to try to visually separate Dusky and Hammond's flycatchers were some of the enjoyments. A total of 41 species were identified within the Park by one of the groups either from the boat or on shore. Since the boat can only carry 9 we split the group and also have the opportunity to bird along the incoming Sonoita Creek riparian area.

Thanks to Ron and the Park staff for their help.

Look for this trip in 2007 or try a visit on your own. I know you will enjoy it.

Report by: Sandy Kunzer

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Whitewater Draw WMA, 29 November 2006

Seventeen HAS members and guests turned up at City Hall to carpool in six cars for the HAS Whitewater Draw field trip, led by HAS President Mike Guest, on 29 November 2006.

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We started our trip tally as soon as we turned onto Coffman Lane, the 2-mile dirt road that defines the eastern boundary of Whitewater Draw. We immediately found plenty of sparrows in winter dress, especially Lark Buntings by the dozen. With six cars spread out along the lane, it was inevitable that different things were spotted by different folks. I was sorry I forgot to stick my short wave radio set into my van, especially when I heard that folks in the first 2 or 3 cars saw a CRESTED CARACARA fly over the road near the former farm house at the entrance to Whitewater Draw. My only consolation was that we saw a Common Ground-Dove from my van. Other birds seen along Coffman Lane included Gambel's Quail, Loggerhead Shrike, Western Meadowlark, Greater Roadrunner, and the usual mix of sparrows (Brewer's, Chipping, Vesper, and White-crowned), both Red-winged and Yellow-headed Blackbirds, and the first few Sandhill Cranes.

Assembling as a whole group at the pole barn parking area, we were acutely aware of the low temperature and the blustery winds, which prevailed throughout the morning. We forgot the wind, however, when male Vermilion Flycatchers were spotted. Also hunting in the wind were both Black and Say's Phoebes, but kingbirds were absent, having moved south. The first American Pipits were seen walking along the muddy shore. Next we turned our attention to waterbirds, ranging from Killdeer and American Coots near at hand to Eared Grebes, Gadwall, and Ruddy Ducks just off shore, bouncing on the choppy water. From the south platform we picked up many more ducks bobbing on the water, including Cinnamon Teal, Northern Shoveler, Northern Pintail, Redhead, and three striking male Buffleheads.

As we tramped up to the north platform, a Cooper's Hawk flashed by, two Spotted Sandpipers bobbed along, and more American Pipits edged the dike. A lone BLACK-BELLIED PLOVER was seen from the north platform, as well as a few Least Sandpipers. Then three Greater White-fronted Geese (an adult and two immature birds) were spotted out in the water to the north. New duck species identified included Canvasback and Lesser Scaup. Next, Dave Beaudette called our attention to a distant gull that turned out to be a winter-plumaged Bonaparte's Gull when we got it in the spotting scopes.

Moving south to the willow copse, we started picking up different birds, including Savannah Sparrow, Song Sparrow, and a surprise SAGE SPARROW coming to drink along the willow-edged shore. Most of the willow copse was inaccessible due to high water, but we found Green-winged Teal and American Wigeon in the shallows, more Spotted Sandpipers, and had a brief glimpse of a Great Horned Owl flying to thicker cover. Next we had a pair of Ladder-backed Woodpeckers in view, then a Northern Flicker, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Common Yellowthroat, and a surprise male LAZULI BUNTING. Walking around the south end of the willow copse, we added House and Marsh Wrens, House Finch, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Red-tailed Hawk, and Northern Harrier. Another large raft of ducks west of the willow copse proved to hold our first green-headed male Mallards of the day and a small group of Ring-necked Ducks, bring our duck total to thirteen species. On the far shore there were four Canada Geese, a good find for this location.

Returning to the pole barn area, we found the flock of Snow Geese had moved closer, joining the ever-increasing flock of Sandhill Cranes by the thousands. A careful look through the Snow Geese turned up an adult Ross' Goose, our fourth goose species for the trip. It was now noon and many folks left, but a few hardy souls ate lunch in the sun before heading back home. The last two cars turned out the front gate, one going south and one north. The southbound folks found a Bendire's Thrasher, while the northbound folks found a male American Kestrel, bringing our group tally to 63 species.

Report by: Erika Wilson

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Huachuca Canyon, November 9, 2006

Seven HAS members met in Gateway Park at N. Garden Ave. on a beautiful clear morning. While we waited for the 8 a.m. start time, the early arrivals did some casual birding around the parking lot and the adjacent edge of Buffalo Soldier Creek. We turned up Chipping Sparrows, White-crowned Sparrows, Yellow-rumped Warblers, and then a stunning pair of LAWRENCE'S GOLDFINCHES perched in the bare branches of a mesquite along the creek.

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Once through the main gate of Fort Huachuca, we pulled off at one of the crossroads in the open grassland dotted with desert broom and mesquite. Here we had American Kestrels, Red-tailed Hawks soaring, a male Verdin carrying a big pile of desert broom fluff (which made him look as if he had a white beard), and a mix of sparrows. Moving on to the mouth of Huachuca Canyon, we stopped in the first picnic area, but it was quite windy and without birds. Our next stop was the last parking area at the stream, where we started our walk proper.

Once past the section of road that often has water trickling over it, we came upon a little mixed group of birds that included a male Townsend's Warbler, the first of four we saw during the morning. About fifteen minutes up the road, just after the first, dry stream crossing, we heard a trogon calling. It was soon located, a handsome male ELEGANT TROGON that made short flights through the oaks. Then several woodpeckers were spotted, with two quickly identified as Red-naped Sapsuckers. The third, however, was mostly black, without white back markings, and this bird turned out to be a male WILLIAMSON'S SAPSUCKER.

A little further on we found another small flock of birds containing a Gray Flycatcher. It was giving its "whit" call and dipping its tail slowly as it sallied from a sycamore along the dry streambed. Ruby-crowned Kinglets were plentiful throughout the morning. We were disappointed to find very little activity at the small dam with its flowing stream and huge sycamores, although we could see the Cooper's Hawk nest there was still intact.

Pressing onward and upward, we found a large madrone with lots of fruit and lots of birds. We spent the next 20-30 minutes watching birds fly in and out of the madrone and adjacent oaks. The best bird here was a TOWNSEND'S SOLITAIRE among the dozen American Robins and a single Hermit Thrush. The most conspicuous woodpecker was an Acorn Woodpecker, but we soon found several Red-naped Sapsuckers and three more WILLIAMSON'S SAPSUCKERS, including a female, as well as a Northern Flicker. Calling nearby was a vireo which finally came into view and proved to be a CASSIN'S VIREO, one of two for the morning. Although we walked up higher, we didn't turn up anything new. On the walk back down, we commented on the lack of any Painted Redstarts. Our tally for the day was 34 species.

Report by Trip Leader: Erika Wilson

Editor's Note: Lower Huachuca Canyon is included in the new Appleton-Whittell CBC centered near the Audubon Research Ranch on Saturday, Dec. 23rd.

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2nd Sunday Bird Walk From San Pedro River Inn, November 12, 2006

November is a month of transition as the last of the fall migrants pass through and winter birds establish themselves. The ten participants on 2nd Sunday Bird Walk were treated to a couple eastern vagrants, namely White-throated Sparrow and Eastern Phoebe along the river, while winter visitors supplied the bulk of the bird species seen.

Highlights Hide article...

With the departure of most of the summer breeding birds, the focus of this walk was on winter birds and a few lingering breeders that might spend the winter here. A Merlin was seen hauling its prey from the inn to a more remote perch. A dark-morph Red-tailed Hawk stood out from the numerous light-morph and immature plumaged raptors. Stunning male Northern Harriers were seen in brilliant sunshine along with females and immatures. Accipiters were also conspicuous as both Cooper's and Sharp-shinned Hawks soared in a nearly cloudless sky, while a couple Kestrels were perched out in the fields.

Remaining in the area, an interesting, immature male Vermilion Flycatcher was seen with patches of red including a crown-spot like a Ruby-crowned Kinglet. Adding to numerous Say's Phoebes, a Black Phoebe along the river, not to mention the Eastern Phoebe, gave the group something of a Phoebe sweep! While the gallery forest was quiet, it did yield several Common Ground-Doves, a Belted Kingfisher, Red-shafted Flickers, and Gila and Ladder-backed Woodpeckers. Loggerhead Shrike was perched conspicuously in several locations, but towhees were unusually difficult to find.

A bright male Northern Cardinal and a small flock of Cedar Waxwings at the inn got the walk off to a good start, while a Pyrrhuloxia among the Brewer's and White-crowned Sparrows on our return added variety to the mix. Savannah and Vesper Sparrows were numerous too, while Lincoln's and Song Sparrows also made a number of appearances. Bewick's Wren and White-breasted Nuthatch were seen in the gallery forest, while Eastern Meadowlark and Red-winged Blackbird were encountered in fields on the way. A lone Coot paddled on the upper pond at the inn.

The next 2nd Sunday Bird Walk is scheduled to depart from the San Pedro River Inn at 8:00 a.m. on Sunday, December 10, 2006. Please note that the Hereford Road bridge over the San Pedro River officially has re-opened, so access to the inn from Sierra Vista is much easier. Once again, birders of all levels of experience are welcome to join us!

Report by Trip Leader: Robert Weissler

Afternoon of Hummers, August 24, 2006

Lead by Erika Wilson, three intrepid birders (two visiting Massachusetts birders and me) constituted the Huachuca Audubon Society's "Afternoon of Hummers" field trip, held 24 August 2006 at Beatty's in Miller Canyon during a steady rain. Despite the rain, we tallied nine species of hummers, with most being lifers for the Massachusetts birders.

Highlights Hide article...

We worked the lower public feeders from the shelter of the shed, sitting at the picnic table. Although we couldn't read the feeder numbers from the that angle, we still found Magnificent, Black-chinned, Anna's, Costa's, Broad-tailed, and Rufous Hummingbirds in good numbers. They didn't seem to mind the rain at all.

Moving up to the CAS, we were sheltered from the rain by the canvas roof and seated comfortably on the benches, and the birds were just as thick as ever. Best birds here were two different male WHITE-EARED HUMMINGBIRDS, resplendent in their iridescent colors, perhaps made more intense by the 100% humidity. I was quite surprised at the saturated colors showing so well under complete cloud cover.

In addition to the White-eared Hummers at the CAS, we had a female Broad-billed (no males seen, which was odd), one Violet-crowned, four (two male and two female) Magnificent, lots of Black-chinned, Anna's, Broad-tailed, and Rufous (with one brilliant copper male).

We had a fine time, proving that a bit of wet weather need not stop one from birding.

Report by Trip Leader: Erika Wilson

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India and the Palace on Wheels - March, 2006 [Read more...]

Travels in Northern Mexico - Spring, 2006

I was wondering how this year's spring trips to Sonora and Chihuahua would compare to the great experiences we had in 2005, especially considering the contrast of last year's unusually wet conditions in northern Mexico to this year's extreme dryness. As usual, nature came through with abundant surprises and record numbers of bird species on both trips.

Sonora Hide article...

Huachuca Aududon has been making trips to Sonora for many years, and it appears that the Rio Sonora/Highway 16 route is as productive as ever. This year's trip, April 27-May 2, was blessed with great weather and an excellent group of enthusiastic and fun nature lovers. The wonders of spring migration were well illustrated along the Rio Sonora where warblers, vireos, orioles, swallows, sparrows, and many tanagers were seen. Green kingfisher and gray hawks were right where they usually are while Eurasian collared doves, which I saw for the first time in Mexico near Bacoachi in 2005, were seen all the way to Hermosillo this year. Silky oaks, native to Australia, were in full bloom in the small towns, and many were colorfully decorated with western tanagers and Bullock's and hooded orioles while a beautiful ring-necked snake was a surprise outside of Baviacora.

Though the Rio Sonora route is lovely with its Chihuahuan desert to tropical thornscrub transition, it's the dramatic ascent of Highway 16 from the low Sonoran Desert into the Sierra Madre that provides the first big highlight of the trip. Stopping first in the Sonoran Desert, we found a few of its signature species, rufous-winged sparrow and gilded flicker, as well as nesting cactus wrens and curve-billed thrashers, phainopepla, and a few others. An antelope jack rabbit in this spot was a life mammal for most of the group. The Rio Matape was outstanding again with the first of many elegant quail seen as soon as we exited the van. Breeding orchard orioles (yes, there is a small, isolated breeding population of orchard orioles just a few hundred miles south of us), happy wren, great kiskadee, lazuli bunting, tropical kingbird, streak-backed oriole, and many others were found at this desert oasis where we also had a brief and unexpected sighting of a bobcat in the mesquites. Upon arriving at our first good stand of tropical deciduous forest (TDF), we emerged into a starkly leafless habitat except for one huge, green, and, unfortunately fruitless fig. The initial silence was soon broken by the strident wheek! of Nutting's flycatchers which suddenly seemed to be everywhere. A nice pair of black-capped gnatcatchers put on a delightful show, many varied buntings were working the flowers of a Ceiba tree, and three hummer species (berylline, violet-crowned, and broad-billed) were hawking insects around the fig. Further up the highway the forest around the spring at Km 196 was dripping with birds. Yellow grosbeak, tropical parula, five-striped sparrow, varied bunting, black-vented oriole, Sinaloa wren, and white-tipped dove were some of the stand outs within the flurry of activity. As usual, striking blackened bluewing butterflies were seen here as well.

Up around Yecora, the action was equally exciting. Up in the pines and oaks of the Mesa Campanero, several mountain trogons did a masterful job of trying to outshine painted redstarts, crescent-chested warblers, "black-eared" bushtits, Mexican chickadee, olive warbler, Scott's oriole, and many migrating Townsend's and hermit warblers. Though I've been to the well-known barranca just down the road dozens of times, I've never seen it as birdy as it was this year (and that includes all six stops we made there!). You know things are going well when you get to the point of someone saying "What was that?", and the response is "Oh, just another blue mockingbird." In addition to this Mexican endemic, we enjoyed a virtual non-stop parade whose members included flame-colored tanager, white-throated robin, slate-throated redstart, tufted flycatcher, white-eared hummingbird, both russet and orange-billed nightingale thrushes, rusty sparrow, spotted wren, brown-backed solitaire, elegant trogon, rufous-capped warbler, and a rare prize in Sonora, red-headed tanager.

Down in the TDF around Santa Ana and Santa Rosa we had more good luck. The charming town of Santa Ana, with its quiet beauty, is one of my favorite spots in Mexico. There a small stream, lined with sabino and fruiting mulberry trees, served as the bird magnet, with Swainson's thrush, rufous-backed robin, squirrel cuckoo, white-striped woodcreeper, orange-billed nightingale thrush and yet another blue mockingbird putting in appearances. At the little oasis outside of Santa Rosa, black-throated magpie jays seemed to paint graceful blue and white lines across the sky with their many fly-bys, while elegant quail and five-striped sparrows came to the small pond to drink and give us some great views.

With a fantastic group, great food, perfect weather, some neat mammals (in addition to the jack rabbit and the bobcat, we also saw coyote, desert cottontail, rock and Apache fox squirrels, and cliff chipmunk), and a new record of 172 bird species, this was yet another memorable trip.

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Chihuahua Hide article...

In late May, we journeyed southeast to Madera, Chihuahua to enjoy the high, cool, mixed conifer forest and a part of the Sierra Madre that both contrasts and compliments the Sierra Madre near Yecora in Sonora. Entering the range from the high, dry, grass and scrub-dominated east is very different than coming from the more tropical west with its palms, figs, and squirrel cuckoos. In Madera, the pines and oaks seem to go on forever, and one's birding thoughts may conjure images of avian ghosts in the form of the now-extinct imperial woodpecker. Though the woodpecker is gone from these dramatic mountains, several very special range-sharing species persist, namely eared quetzal, striped sparrow, and the local prize, thick-billed parrots. This year we had the great pleasure of spending another unforgettable morning with these marvelous birds. Being around thick-billed parrots is always a moving and energizing experience, and their frequent calling, nest-cavity exploration, mutual preening and courtship feeding were fascinating and beautiful against the gorgeous backdrop of pines, Douglas fir, quaking aspen, and Rocky Mountain maple. The red-faced and crescent-chested warblers, russet nightingale thrush, and mountain trogon were nice bonuses.

West of town are several of my favorite spots in the area. One, a moist sycamore-lined canyon with a surprising number of fruiting trees (chokecherry, coffeeberry, canyon grape, and Texas madrone) feels a little like home as this is where we found elegant trogon, sulphur-bellied flycatcher, eastern bluebird, painted redstart, hepatic tanager, blue-throated hummingbird, Arizona woodpecker, and bridled titmouse. The bird that has yet to cross the border, however, is the white-striped woodcreeper which we found here once again.

Another off-the-beaten-track riparian area, thick with willows and surrounded by great forest, is where we enjoyed an active group of striped sparrows, intent on building a ground nest in the bunchgrasses. An evening outing to this paradise-like area was a good choice this year not only for our great picnic dinner, but also for great views of at least three eared quetzals, a pair of common black hawks, a northern pygmy owl, and a zone-tailed hawk. Buff-breasted flycatchers were working the willows which lined a small and pretty stream in which speckled dace and ranid tadpoles were seen.

The Madera area is also rich in human history, and on our way down we stopped at the excellent Paquime museum while on the return we made a visit to the village of Mata Ortiz where some exquisite pots were purchased.

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Northern Mexico's proximity, the good road conditions, nice lodging, and a wealth of great birds and natural history make these trips two of my favorites. Thanks to all who joined our 2006 outings and helped raise over $500 for HAS. We'll be returning in 2007 - Sonora, April 24-29 and Chihuahua, May 22-25 - for what I'm sure will be more great trips. If you're interested in joining us and would like more information contact me at (520) 803-6889 or mpnaturetours@earthlink.net.

Mark Pretti

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2nd Sunday Bird Walk From San Pedro River Inn, June 11, 2006

During June, many of the summer breeding birds are on their nests, so they tend to be less conspicuous than when they first arrive, singing to attract a mate and stake out their territory. June is also generally the hottest and driest month of the year, apart from the thunderstorm during the prior week that provided a respite and a hint of the monsoon to come. Nevertheless, participants of the June 2nd Sunday Bird Walk enjoyed the shade of the gallery forest and the many colorful breeding birds of the season.

Highlights Hide article...

Among the highlights, Gray and Swainson's Hawks were conspicuous in the bright sunshine as were Summer Tanagers, Yellow-breasted Chats, Vermilion Flycatchers (particularly the males doing their fluttering display flights), Yellow Warblers and Blue Grosbeaks along the river. A Bullock's Oriole visited a feeder at the inn. Two different bright male Northern Cardinals were spied in Mexican Elderberry and Hackberry along with a Pyrrhuloxia. Gila and Ladder-backed Woodpeckers were heard drumming and calling throughout. Ash-throated Flycatchers, Northern (red-shafted) Flicker, Western and Cassin's Kingbirds, White-winged Dove and Common Ground-Dove, Bewick's Wren, White-breasted Nuthatch, Loggerhead Shrike, and Canyon and Abert's Towhees were seen well. White-throated Swifts soared in great arcs above us.

Back at the inn, Gambel's and Scaled Quail were seen together near the entrance. Curve-billed Thrasher could be heard by its distinctive "whit, WHIT!" vocalization. A Barn Owl fledgling was peering down at us, perched low in the Cottonwood above us.

Please note that the Hereford Road bridge over the San Pedro River officially has re-opened, so access to the inn from Sierra Vista is much easier. Once again, birders of all levels of experience are welcome to join us!

Robert Weissler

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Article Submissions

We encourage your contributions! Please send your submissions via e-mail to us at has_admin@huachuca-audubon.org recounting recent bird walks, field trips, and overseas tours. Please send just plain text with graphics files as attachments instead of Word documents, since doing so makes it easier to incorporate into web pages.

Last updated: 31 August 2007 by REW.