May 2008
Larry Tripp (31 May 2008) - Today I was lucky enough to have a first Spring male American Redstart singing his little head off in my yard. He stayed around for at least 3 hours. He came into the bird bath twice while I watched and spent the rest of the time feeding in the brush and singing away. He was also number 150 for the yard and the 2nd new Warbler in the last 2 days here. I finally got A MacGillvray's in the yard yesterday. A nice male Anna's Hummingbird was coming to the feeders today. I always have a couple around in the Fall but don't See them in the Spring to often.
Larry Tripp (30 May 2008) - Birding along Pinto Creek in Northern Washington County this morning I saw a male Hooded Warbler about 10 miles south of Newcastle Res. Also along the Creek there was a Yellow-billed Cuckoo. The last 2 years I have seen singing Lucy's Warblers along the creek which is as far north as I've seen them in western Utah where they may be breeding.
Larry Tripp (28 May 2008) - Tonight at around 6:30 PM I saw a Yellow-throated Vireo along the Santa Clara river about 200 yards below Baker Res. in Washington Co. I last saw it flying upstream towards the Res. I searched but was unable locate it again in the thick understory and tall Cottonwoods and Willows. I never heard the bird call.
Rick Fridell - Yesterday afternoon (5/27), I photographed a singing White-throated Sparrow in the large willow patch at Ash Creek Reservoir (the small, usually dry reservoir at the top of the Black Ridge along I-15). This area can be accessed be taking Exit 36 off of I-15. The willows along the inflow typically hold a nice variety of migrants and residents.
Rick Fridell - Yesterday (5/24), Quinn and I were able to get out to several Washington County locations and do a little birding. We made it up to the Kolob Meadows and enjoyed some mid-May snow. Although we didn't see any Condors, highlights included a male Acorn Woodpecker in the first group of aspens north of the Kolob Creek road crossing and a Northern Goshawk in the same area. Also there was a singing male Black-and-white Warbler at the Confluence Park (confluence of Ash and La Verkin Creeks with the Virgin River). It was hanging around in the wooded ravine above the old power plant structure. Also I was very surprised to see two singing male Bobolinks in the Washington Fields, along 240 West (in the green fields on the east side at the south end of 240 West).
Rick Fridell - This evening (5/22)I was able to take advantage of the cool weather and long days and spend some time birding at Lytle Ranch (Washington Co.). Highlights included a Veery (in the orchard mulberry tree)...
Caitlin Ceci (22 May 2008) -... a Painted Redstart was reported to the park as well yesterday-- though I did not speak with this individual directly and am unaware as to his reliability. The bird was seen on the "Riverside Walk" Trail.
Rick Fridell - This afternoon (5/21) around 5:30p, I saw a female Painted Bunting along the Y-drain in the Washington Fields, Washington Co. It was feeding in the Descurania and grasses along the Y-drain and was last observed flying into the tamarisks along the Virgin River. It was loosely associating with several Blue Grosbeaks.
Larry Tripp (17 May 2008) - Birding this morning at Lytle Ranch I saw a Yellow-throated Warbler along the creek west of the parking area. It was certainly the high light but there was also a lot of bird activity in the area until it started to get hot just after 10:00 AM. The Mulberry trees seemed to be where a lot of birds were hanging out. - I stopped at Gunlock Res. on the way home and there was a Vaux's Swift flying around with the Swallows near the inlet and a singing male Northern Parula was just above the Res. along the Santa Clara.
Jack Binch (6 May 2008) - Bob Huntington, Dave Hanscom, and I made a trip to St. George over the weekend. We got most of our target birds, Summer Tanager, Gray Vireo, Bell's Vireo, Verdin, Phainopepla, Black-tailed Gnatcatcher, Roadrunner, Black-throated Sparrow, Cactus Wren, Scott's Oriole, Common Blackhawk, Grace's Warbler, Lucy's Warbler, Ash-throated Flycatcher, Abert's Towhee, Gambel's Quail, Anna's Hummingbird, Crissal Thrasher, Ladder-backed Woodpecker, Inca Dove, and Acorn Woodpecker. We also got a couple of unexpected bonuses. A Black-and-white Warbler and a Black-throated Gray Warbler. - I also got to eliminate my number two nemesis bird. We got a good look and a couple of photos of a Rufous-crowned Sparrow.
Pomera Fronce (3 May 2008) - Just returned from Southern Utah where we saw some great birds. The highlight for me was a Palm Warbler on Thursday morning at Welcome Springs (on the way to Lytle Ranch) in the area of the cottonwood grove.
Larry Tripp (3 May 2008) - Birding at Lytle on Friday there were pretty good numbers of migrants around. The later migrants like Wood Pewee,W. Tanager and Brown-creasted Flycatcher have show up. 11 species of Warblers were there with the Waterthrush being the best. It was probably a Northern but I didn't get a good look at it and it's a good time for a Louisiana. - But the best bird I saw was a stunning Dark adult Broad-winged Hawk soaring low over the parking area. Very nice looking bird. - Other birds of note were a Gray Vireo, Black Hawk and a Nashville Warbler.
Rick Fridell - This afternoon (05/02/08) there was a Whimbrel at Sand Hollow State Park, Washington Co., UT. The Whimbrel was walking with a Willet along the main beach directly across from the OHV parking area. The large flocks of Red-necked Phalaropes have moved on, but there were a few remaining around the reservoir.
Apr 2008
Tim Avery (26 Apr 2008) - Spent the day birding around a windy Washington county. ...Lytle Ranch... a flyover Common Black-Hawk ...The highlights of the day came at Kolob Crossing where 2 California Condor and a Zone-tailed Hawk were seen riding the wind with many TV's.
Tim Avery (7 Apr 2008) - Saturday 04/05... Lytle Ranch - Lots of singing Lucy's Warblers, and tons of Lesser Goldfinch singing everywhere. 2 - Common Black-hawk... 2 - Cassin's Vireo .... Hurricane SR-9 Sewage Ponds ...1 - Horned Grebe... Stratton (Grandpa's Fishing) Pond 5 - Greater Scaup (remaining as well as a single Canvasback)... Sunday 04/06 - ...Lytle Ranch - Colby, Jeff and Carl walked up through the ranch, while I birded the area west and south of the parking area. ...2 - Common Black-Hawk... 1 - Band-tailed Pigeon (in the housing area)... We made a quick stop at the Zions Gate RV Park in Hurricane and managed to pick up a single Inca Dove. We then headed to Zion National Park and took the shuttle up to the Shuttle to the Temple of Sinawava...1 - Painted Redstart (near Temple of Sinawava)...
Mar 2008
MarJean M. (17 Mar 2008) - My sisters and I also visited St. George this last week. Thanks to Rick Fridell's excellent directions we also saw the Lawrence's Goldfinch. What a great sighting. We spent about 2 hours or more watching, and photographing this bird.
Rick Fridell - Yesterday afternoon (3/14) Quinn and I sent for a stroll around the campground loop at Red Cliffs Recreation Area (Washington Co.). The highlight was an adult male Anna's Hummingbird. It appears to be on territory and usually sits on a Desert Almond on the left (south) side of the road just past the second speed bump from the entrance kiosk area.
Larene Wyss (15 Mar 2008) - David Wheeler and I drove down to Southern Utah this morning and saw one male Lawrence's Goldfinch at the feeder in Santa Clara. It came in around 8:10 after a Sharpie left a nearby tree.
Rick Fridell (7 Mar 2008) - There are two male Lawrence's Goldfinch visiting a residential feeder in Santa Clara. There are some special circumstances with the home owners, so anyone interested in trying for the finches, please contact me and I can give you the details and coordinate your visit. Fortunately the birds are visiting a feeder visible from the main road and have been coming in regularly.
Keith Davis (5 Mar 2008) - Just had a call from R.J. Hughes. He saw Lawrence's Goldfinches at his feeder the past two days. R.J. lives just east of Jacob Hamblin's historic home in Santa Clara on that back road. That area has always been a great place for neat birds.
Feb 2008
Edson Leite (25 Feb 2008) - Beth and I went down to So. Utah this weekend for some birding. On Sunday we found a Yellow-bellied Sapsucker at Lytle Ranch at noon near the pipe pouring water out of the ground. It was hanging out with a Ladder-backed Woodpecker and 4 N. Flicker. ...A Red-shouldered Hawk was six power poles up on the road to Sand Hollow Reservoir. Next to the water treatment plant in Hurricane at 4pm.
Rick Fridell - This weekend (2/15-18) there have been large flocks of geese moving through Washington County. Mixed flocks of geese have been in the Washington Fields, SR-9 (Hurricane) Sewage Ponds, and at Sand Hollow State Park. The largest and most diverse flock was at the SR-9 Ponds including several hundred Canada Geese, ~150 Snow Goose, a few Ross's Geese, and a single Greater White-fronted Goose. Flocks of at least 50 Snow Geese were also in the Washington Fields and at Sand Hollow State Park. On Saturday (2/16), there were three Trumpeter Swans and a couple Tundra Swans in a recently planted field in the Hurricane Fields.
Larry Tripp (16 Feb 2008) - ...The best bird was a female type Purple Finch I saw Friday afternoon along the bike path between the Southgate GC and the I 15 freeway. It was just above where the freeway crosses the Santa Clara. It was a greenish Pacific type. It let me get great close looks and was calling including the pit flight call. I first saw it on the GC and chased it up along the bike path until it flew across the freeway towards the Wildlife Museum . I looked for it over there and in the little park by the Santa Clara but only saw a few Cassin's which seem to be everywhere this winter. ...Today at Lytle Ranch the continuing Eastern Phoebe and Hammond's Flycatcher where both in the Cottonwoods by the entrance gate. The Phoebe was one of the first birds I saw and just before leaving while talking with 2 other birders The Hammond's flew in right in front of us in the same area. I saw 2 Yellow-shafted Flickers near the house. One male and a female type hybrid.
Tim Avery (10 Feb 2008) - This afternoon while guiding 2 photographers around Washington County we had some interesting sightings. At Lytle Ranch in the Orchard I photographed what looks to be a clean Gilded Flicker, not the same bird Rick and I observed the previous day. This bird was ALSO seen, in the vicinity of the old beaver dam along the creek. ...At Sand Hollow were 2 Trumpeter Swan and 6 TUNDRA SWAN along what I think is the south shore.
Rick Fridell (9 Feb 2008) - Last night (2/8) I saw a first-winter Mew Gull at Sand Hollow State Park (Washington Co.). It was perched on the 'cormorant rocks' directly off the main parking lot with some Ring-billed and a few California Gulls. There were also 7-8 Tundra Swans at Sand Hollow (foraging along the south shore). At Lytle Ranch, there is a interesting female flicker with yellow shafts, however, since it has a gray nape, I believe it has at least a few Northern Flicker genes, however all the other characters are good for a Gilded Flicker. In addition to the hybrid Gilded Flicker, there has also been an adult male Northern 'Yellow-shafted' Flicker hanging around this winter. I also photographed what I believe is a Hammond's Flycatcher at Lytle; it was located along the fence line that runs south (downstream) from the entrance gate. ...This is only the fourth winter Empid that I know of in Washington County (the other three were observed in Jan 2006), and if it is a Hammond's, it's the first of that species....
Rick Fridell (9 Feb 2008) - Tim Avery just called from Lytle Ranch (2/9) and this morning he located an Eastern Phoebe along the Beaver Dam Wash immediately south of Lytle Ranch.
Aaron (6 Feb 2008) - Today at Lytle Ranch I found an adult female Gilded Flicker in the pomegranate orchard directly across from the main ranch house. I watched the bird, which was easy to identify because it was with a dozen Northern Flickers, eating on the pomegranates that have dropped to the ground. The bird then flew behind the ranch house. I also found an adult Golden-crowned Sparrow just South of the large pond. This bird was feeding on the hillside with 20 or more White-crowned Sparrows.
Jan 2008
Jeff Bilsky (29 Jan 2008) - For those interested, here are my reports from birding down at the St. George Bird Festival. ...The rarest sighting would be the Red-breasted Sapsucker we tracked down at Lytle.
Rick Fridell (29 Jan 2008) - Here's a belated report of the St. George Winter Bird Festival Quail Creek to Hurricane Fields field trip from last Saturday (01/26/08). ...We started at Quail Creek State Park, then proceeded to visit the Hurricane Fishing Pond (Stratton Pond), SR-9 Hurricane Sewer Ponds, Sand Hollow State Park, the Hurricane Fields. A total of 63 species were observed by at least some of the group. Highlights included both Trumpeter and Tundra Swans, 19species of waterfowl, nine species of raptors, a couple young Herring Gulls, and dozens and dozens of Mountain Bluebirds. And the few survivors who made it back to Quail Creek S.P. at the end of the day were treated to a Common and Pacific Loon...
Donna Thorum (3 Jan 2008) - I was able to see the Red-breasted Sapsucker in Springdale, UT. at the Cliff Rose Lodge around 11:30 this morning. So, yes, it is still there, and seems to be drinking sap to it's heart content. If you are by the side of the swimming pool nearest to Zion's Park, with it to your back to the pool, the trees are in front of you a bit to the right. After watching it for some time we came to the conclusion the best way to find the trees is to look for the sap running down the trunks. The sun makes it glisten. Also there is sap on the lawn and ground at the bottom of the trees.
Dec 2007
Tim Avery (29 Dec 2007) - Steve and Cindy Sommerfeld called to report that the Red-breasted Sapsucker previously reported in Springdale was found again today They also found a Rufous-crowned Sparrow on the road to the amphitheater in Springdale. At Sand Hollow Reservoir were 2 Trumpeter Swans with 8 TUNDRA SWANS.
Tim Avery (29 Dec 2007) - I headed down to St. George on Thursday hoping to finally tick off a Vermilion Flycatcher for the year. Talk about a relief, when I finally laid eyes on a female bird in Bloomington on Thursday. ...At first light Friday I was back at Lytle... I birded the camping area, and flushed what looked to be a juvenile-type sapsucker from a cottonwood into the pines at the kiosk. Right as I got to the trees a Red-breasted Sapsucker dropped out of the pines and into a tree a few feet away, followed immediately by the juvenile bird, and an adult female Red-naped Sapsucker. The birds were quite jittery and didn't allow me to get to close. The juvenile bird flew directly above me into a cottonwood and with the great light it looked like a good Yellow-bellied Sapsucker. Absolutely no red in the head yet, and still a very dirty bird, typical of juveniles of this species this time of year. ...I made my way into Washington Fields from the loop around the state park and spent some time looking for the Lark Bunting Rick reported last month. As I worked my way east along the main east-west road I came into a huge flock of Red-winged Blackbird, with smaller numbers of Starlings, Cowbirds, and Brewer's Blackbirds. A couple hundred feet from the corner where the east-west road T's the main north-south road there was a flock of 80-90 Brewer's Blackbirds in a corral made up of box crates. Almost in the front was a female Rusty Blackbird which stuck out like a sore thumb in the bunch.
Larry Tripp (21 Dec 2007) Today at about 8:00 am Just south of Central in Washington County I saw a flock of 150 + Bohemian Waxwings. They were flying around in a large flock and were also seen landing in Juniper trees just south of the fields. They all looked the same in flight and everyone I saw perched was a Bohemian. I last saw them flying towards Central. I looked for them when I came back home this afternoon but didn't see them. I would think there are still around somewhere between Central and Veyo.
Mark Stackhouse (20 Dec 2007) - The Red-breasted Sapsucker reported by Rick Fridell from the Zion CBC was still there this afternoon at about 1 p.m. It was in the same pines northeast of the swimming pool at the Cliff Rose Lodge in Springdale. In that group of pines there's one larger one right next to the building to the north - this seems to be the favorite spot of this bird. A long-time nemesis, and number 386 for my Utah list (my forth new Utah bird this year, doubling my total for each of the last two years).
Rick Fridell (16 Dec 2007) - Yesterday 12/15 while taking part in the Zion Christmas Bird Count, KevinWheeler, Josh Kreitzer, Pam Larson and Jan Boyer found a Red-breasted Sapsucker on the grounds of the Cliffrose Lodge in Springdale. Quinn and I were able to join them for a while to take some pictures of the sapsucker. It is very approachable and yesterday was hanging around in the pine trees northeast of the pool. Also Kevin, Pam, Jan and Josh discovered a White-throated Sparrow during the count, across the bridge at the Springdale City Park.
Larry Tripp (14 Dec 2007) - Birding along the Santa Clara river in Washington County today I saw a Swamp Sparrow behind Tonaquint Nature Center. There was also a Golden-crowned Kinglet in the pines at the nature center and there are still quite a few Orange-crowned Warblers along the river between there and where it meets the Virgin River.
Nov 2007
Tim Avery (27 Nov 2007) - Monday morning started out just like Sunday, a bit chilly. When I got to the ranch I headed directly to the area where the Phoebe was seen on Sunday, hoping to track it down. I looped the south “reservoir”, walked downstream a couple hundred yards, and then made my way back towards the beaver dam, when I flushed the Palm Warbler from the baby cottonwoods along the stream. I called Rick Fridell who made his way down and we were able to relocate the bird after about 15 minutes of searching. Shortly after finding the bird, I followed it as it flew about 100 feet downstream into a large cottonwood. When I got my binoculars up another warbler caught my attention. At the distance all I could tell is that it wasn’t a Yellow-rumped and we needed to get better looks. We made our way down and kept eyes on the bird as it foraged about. Finally it popped out in the open, and my first impression was that it was a 1st winter female Bay-breasted Warbler. We continued to watch the bird, noting several things that didn’t quite fit, at which point Rick brought up Pine Warbler. The long tail as well as the auricular patch, along with some faint streaks in the flanks seemed to point that direction. Add in the apparent yellow-gray leg color and it seems like a good match. We got back to the vehicles after doing a little more birding, and popped out Sibley to take a look. Rick’s instinct was correct as the bird did appear to be a Pine Warbler.
Tim Avery (27 Nov 2007) - Upon arrival in Washington County I stopped at Quail Creek Reservoir where plenty of Eared Grebes were on the water. I worked my way to the dam, and managed to find one Horned Grebe and what appeared to be a 1st winter Pacific Loon near the south dam.
Larry Tripp (25 Nov 2007) - Birding this afternoon at Lytle Ranch I saw the Palm Warbler that was found earlier in the day. I saw it by the pond on the west side of the stream and west of the main gate. Also I saw a Eastern Phoebe that I assume is the same bird that was reported on Wed. This bird did not have a tail. It either lost it in the last few days or was a different bird. It was quite entertaining watching it doing the Phoebe tail dip without a tail. It was in the same area west of the parking lot. Other birds of note there today were a Winter Wren and a Yellow-shafted Flicker. ...On Sat. in Central I saw a Lapland Longspur in the field to the west of the Pine Valley turnoff.
Kris Purdy (25 Nov 2007) - Tim Avery just called (1 pm, Sunday) to report a Palm Warbler at Lytle Ranch, Washington County. The bird was just west of the gate where you must park (closed today because it's Sunday) and along the beaver dam. Cindy and Steve Sommerfeld also saw the bird.
Rick Fridell - We went for a walk this morning (11/22) at Lytle Ranch and were surprised to see a Lapland Longspur in the bare field adjacent to the orchard. Unfortunately we saw no sign of an Eastern Phoebe.
Rick Fridell - Today (11/21) I finally managed to do some local birding. ...highlights included: Black Scoter - Female - at Gunlock Reservoir, Lewis's Woodpecker - Pine Valley Town, Northern Shrike - brown juvenile - along the drive into Baker Reservoir, and the biggest surprise was a Lark Bunting on the north edge of the Hurricane Fields.
Tim Avery (21 Nov 2007) - I just received a phone call from Steve and Cindy Sommerfeld reporting an Eastern Phoebe at the main gate at Lytle Ranch today. This is the gate that when closed reads, "Closed to the Public".
Larry Tripp (16 Nov 2007) - It was very birdy at Lytle again today although most of the birds were Yellow rumps, Junco's and White crowns. There was a Red-breasted Sapsucker in the orchard along with a few Red-naped and a Williamson's. We seem to be getting 1 or 2 Red-breasted there every fall in the last few years.
Rick Fridell - This afternoon (11/10) there was a nice flock of geese at the SR-9(Hurricane) Sewer Ponds (Washington Co.). There was a flock of 12 or so Canada Geese on the northeast pond, and the southeast pond held a nice diversity of geese...with a diverse group of native geese including five Ross's Geese, four Snow Geese, and a Greater White-fronted Goose. They were all foraging between the pond and fence along the Turfsod Road.
Larry Tripp (9 Nov 2007) - Today at Lytle Ranch there was a female type Scarlet Tanager in the trees above the trailer and in the Pomegranates near the parking area. I first saw it in the tall trees above the drinking fountain then it flew into the Pomegranates by the restrooms. I last saw it fly into the Mesquite trees to the south of the parking area. I never was able to locate it after that which was about 11:00 am. There was also a female type Summer Tanager in the same area for a good comparison. I watched both birds at the same time in the Pomegranates above the restrooms.
LaNita Larsen and Amy Owen (9 Nov 3007) - On Monday, November 5th, we ventured out to Lytle Ranch... In the cottonwood grove lining the road back to the fruit orchard, we located a stunning adult male Black-throated Blue Warbler. It was methodically foraging in the under-story of a cottonwood tree, which afforded us splendid, eye-level views. We have seen this warbler many times in the east, but never in Utah! Mesmerized, we observed this rare, fall vagrant for nearly a half hour before it flew out of sight. Later in the afternoon, we were able relocate the warbler in some thickets nearby.
Rick Fridell - This afternoon (11/05) Laurie Rasmussen and I observed the Long-tailed Jaeger back at Quail Creek S.P. (Washington Co.). After a three day stay at nearby Sand Hollow S.P. I guess it decided to return. Also at Quail Creek today were several Horned Grebes and the first Common Goldeneyes of the fall. Birds at Sand Hollow S.P. included a continuing adult Bald Eagle and at least four lingering Least Sandpipers. This is great time of year to see returning ducks and Stratton Pond (aka Grandpa's Fishing Pond) in Hurricane has many nice ducks including Greater and Lesser Scaup, Canvasbacks, Redheads and several Hooded Mergansers. Also, yesterday (11/04) in Zion Canyon (Washington Co.) Kristen, Quinn and I observed several of the California Condors that are hanging around in the main canyon. It's amazing to watch these birds soaring along the canyon walls (apparently they are usually on the north side of Zion Canyon between Heap's Canyon (Emerald Pools area) down to Scout's Landing (Angel's Landing area).
Rick Fridell - This afternoon (11/02), the Long-tailed Jaeger moved from Quail Creek S.P. to Sand Hollow S.P. (Washington Co., UT). After a long stay at Quail Creek S.P. (it was there early this morning), I was surprised to see the bird this afternoon flying around Sand Hollow. Also of note at Sand Hollow was an adult Bald Eagle, several loons, including a probable Pacific Loon, 10-12 Horned Grebes, 6 Red-breasted Mergansers, and a single American Avocet.
Oct 2007
Mark Stackhouse (29 Oct 2007) - ...I made a quick trip to southern Utah yesterday to twitch what I hoped would be a couple of new birds...there wasn't a single cormorant to be seen anywhere, and none on Quichapa Lake, so I was too late for the Neotropical. Oh well...At Quail Creek Reservoir we ran into Ed Leite and his friend Beth. I had just finished a fruitless scan of half of the reservoir (could I dip on both my targets???) when Beth asked about a bird she had in the scope, and Ed proclaimed, "that's it!" I swung my scope to the area where they were looking and quickly located the bird - joy - Long-tailed Jaeger indeed - number 385 for my Utah list. Nice bird - thanks to Rick F. for finding and keeping track of this for the rest of us. Also of interest at Quail Creek was a COMMON LOON, several BUFFLEHEAD, and a Common Tern. ...By the time we got to Lytle there wasn't much daylight left, but there was decent bird activity. The best bird was a White-throated Sparrow in the orchard...
Rick Fridell (26 Oct 2007) - Well, I guess I wrong about needing to hurry to see the Long-tailed Jaeger at Quail Creek State Park (Washington Co.). It's still hanging out (since10/18), and must be collecting enough small fish to get by. I noticed it this morning (10/26) while scanning the reservoir. Every once in a while a Peregrine Falcon would make a pass at it and chase it for a while, but it seemed to elude the falcon fairly easily...
Tim Avery (21 Oct 2007) - On Friday (10/19) Steve and Cindy Sommerfeld and I traveled to Washington County to see the Long-tailed Jaeger found by Rick Fridell at Quail Creek. ...Quail Creek Reservoir...After arriving at what's left of the reservoir, we started scanning the water for the bird. It took 4 or 5 scans of the water before we finally found the bird several hundred yards away on the water. Over the next 2 hours we watched it flying around the lake, sitting on the water, getting chased by a jerk on jet-ski, and feeding on a large bluegill. At one point the bird made a pass over us on the beach, just 25 feet above our heads. Great looks at a greatbird. ...Stratton Pond... The pond was covered with diving and dabbling ducks as it often is during the winter, and continued it reliability with both HOODED MERGANSER and Greater Scaup. A "Myrtle's subspecies" Yellow-rumped Warbler was chipping in the treesby the water. ...Seegmiller Marsh Complex & Springs Estates Pond...Three Common Moorhen were heard in Seegmiller, as well as acouple Green Heron. ...
Joel and Kathy (20 Oct 2007) - This morning at Lytle Ranch was again fairly quiet. A Yellow-shafted Flicker was in the orchard, a Belted Kingfisher at the pond, and a 'Wilson's Snipe in the stream between the pond and the monument. A pair of Phainopepla's was also present. Yesterday afternoon in the Lava Point/Kolob Reservoir area Lewis's and Acorn Woodpeckers, a Peregrine Falcon, and 3 California Condors were seen. We also found a No. Pygmy-Owl being mobbed by Steller's and Scrub Jays, about 3 miles down the road from Blue Springs Reservoir.
Larry Tripp (19 Oct 2007) - I got to Lytle first thing this morning and was there until 2:30. A lot of Sparrows were around a Sooty type Fox was the only unusual one. Plenty of Yellow rumps, Kinglets and RN Sapsuckers were also there. Probably the best bird I saw was a Black-and-White Warbler along the creek west of the main gate. On the way home I stopped at a couple spots along the Santa Clara river and below Gunlock Res. there was a Red-shouldered Hawk.
Joel and Kathy (19 Oct 2007) - Yesterday morning we found a Black-and-white Warbler at Lytle Ranch, otherwise it was fairly quiet.
Rick Fridell - I noticed a juvenile jaeger flying around Quail Creek State Park (Washington Co.) this morning (10/18) on my way up to a meeting in Cedar City. I managed to make it back this afternoon, this time with optics, and soon noticed the jaeger was a juvenile light-phase Long-tailed Jaeger. It managed to stay mostly along the opposite shoreline (of course), flying along the cliffs, and occasionally fluttering down to the water surface. It would occasionally rest on the water for short periods. I think I managed to get some blurry, but identifiable, photos. It was surprisingly difficult to track while flying, and I would often lose it for a while against the cliffs on the east side of Quail Creek reservoir. The pale head and strongly barred undertail coverts were quite obvious when it is perched on the water, and the pale belly, chest, and white underwing barring were apparent in flight. I last observed the jaeger this afternoon about 6:10 with Josh Kreitzer and family. I plan to check and see if the bird is present on my way to work first thing in the morning...
Rick Fridell - Yesterday (10/13) I observed 4-5 Acorn Woodpeckers in the large aspen patch along the road south of Kolob Reservoir (Washington Co.). There were also several Lewis's Woodpeckers at Lava Point, Blue Springs, and along the Kolob Meadows between Blue Springs and Kolob Reservoirs. This afternoon (10/14), I photographed a male 'Yellow-shafted' Flicker at the Springdale Pond.
Rick Fridell - Today (10/11) there was a Dunlin at Sand Hollow State Park.. The Dunlin was on the emerged sandbar below the southwest dike (visible from the parking lot), where all the gulls roost. This is only the second Dunlin I've ever seen in Washington County.
Larry Tripp (5 Oct 2007) - Today at Lytle Ranch in the orchard there was a Baird's Sparrow. I wasn't convinced until I got home and looked at some references. I never really got a great look at the bird but did see enough to separate it from other Ammodramus Sparrows. I chased it around for at least an hour trying to get looks at it. I would almost have to step on it to get it to fly then it would only go 20 to 30 feet and dive back into the grass. After doing this about ten times I was finally able to spot it while scanning through the grass with my binoculars while I was only about eight feet away from it. I only saw the head upper back and sides of the upper breast. I was lucky to even see any of it except in flight. It would always move through the grass from where it would land which made it a guessing game as to where to look without flushing it. The tail was one thing that helped in flight. The outer web was pale. It wasn't obvious like a vesper and the first time I saw it I wasn't sure because it would dive back down in the grass so quickly. But after seeing it a couple times I was sure I was seeing a pale edge. I last saw it at the beginning of the orchard.
Sep 2007
Larry Tripp (30 Sep 2007) - At Lytle Ranch on Friday I saw a Brown Thrasher in the area before the first pond and today there was a HY male Rose-breasted Grosbeak at Eagle mountain Ranch.
Rick Fridell (27 Sep 2007) - Today as part of the Western Field Ornithologists annual conference (being held in Las Vegas), a dozen birders enjoyed a great day at Lytle Ranch, Washington Co., UT. We met at Beaver Dam, AZ and started off with a couple of nice birds around the Beaver Dam Station, including a Red-shouldered Hawk and Vermilion Flycatcher. Overall bird activity at Lytle Ranch and along the Beaver Dam Wash was very slow, however, the orchard was the notable exception. There were probably 25-30 Red-naped Sapsuckers moving all over the orchard, particularly in the persimmon trees. We did turn up a couple additional rare birds including a Red-breasted Sapsucker (in the middle of the orchard) and a Tennessee Warbler (originally in the blackberry bush on the edge of the orchard).
Rick Fridell (26 Sep 2007) - Today (9/26) I stopped by Ash Creek Reservoir (along I-15, Exit 36) on my way home from working in Cedar City. Highlights included a first fall female American Redstart, a Virginia's Warbler, and a single Clark's Nutcracker.
Larry Tripp (23 Sep 2007) - Today in Veyo ( Washington co.) I saw a very bright orange Tanager with dark wings 2 bold wing bars the upper one was orange. The bill was dark and there was a dark border to the ear coverts. It did have bold white spots on the end of the tertials. Unfortuatenutly I didn't get to see the back of the bird well ( I didn't remember to look for streaks at the time )and I didn't think to look at the end of the tail or notice any white there. The bird was brightest orange on the head and upper breast. The bird was either a Flame-colored Tanager or a Western that's been living on carrots. Although the field marks I did see fit Flame-colored better than Western. It was a very striking looking bird. When I first saw the color of the bird I was thinking Baltimore Oriole until I got a look at the head and bill. The lower belly had a hint of yellow. Other than that it was bright orange from the head to the tail. A lot of migrants were moving through the area today. The only other birds of note this weekend were a Common Black-Hawk flying over my yard Central...
Josh Kreitzer - This evening (Saturday, Sep 22) I perused Quail Creek Reservoir in Washington County hoping to turn up a seabird blown in by the severe storm from so. California. Though nothing shocking was found, I was delighted to see three Sabine's Gulls! I hadn't read Rick's earlier report, but after talking to him learned that he'd seen two gulls earlier today. I've never heard of so many Sabine's at the same place at the same time in Utah. It was awesome! They are a beautiful bird! All birds were seen from the south parking lot or from the lake shore near the parking lot. At one point they were all perched on the water together, then they took off, showing their uniquely patterned wings.
Rick Fridell (21 Sep 2007) - This evening on our way home from work (9/21 @ 5:40p) Quinn and I stopped by Quail Creek State Park (Washington Co.) to see what the wind blew in. The only Larids present on the reservoir were two juvenile Sabine's Gulls and two Common Terns! A pretty nice pair of species for Washington Co.!
Rick Fridell (16 Sep 2007) - ...We did see some neat birds around St. George including a female Calliope Hummingbird and a probable Least Flycatcher (I took some photos that I'd be happy to send to any ambitious Empidonax identifiers out there).
Rick Fridell (16 Sep 2007) - In addition to the fine Cape May Warbler Peyton found this morning at the Red Hills Golf Course (9/16; Washington Co.) there was a Vaux's Swift flying around between 7:00 and 10:00 (last observed over the apartments along 700 West at 10:00a). There was also a first-fall male American Redstart near the pond at the golf course.
Larry Tripp (16 Sep 2007) - Today at about 10:00 am at the Red Hills GC in St. George Peyton Cook and I found a hatch year female Cape May Warbler. The bird is VERY drab and can easily be mistaken for a yellow-rumped warbler. Note the green rump and flight feathers, streaky sides and breast. Gray head and back and a little yellow in the breast area. The bird was also giving a high seet call. It was located in the willows just above the pond near the new dirt crossing. We called Rick Fridell and he also was able to see the bird and get pictures.
Rick Fridell (14 Sep 2007) - This evening at approximately 07:00p, I observed an immature male American Redstart in the willows at the inflow of Quail Creek Reservoir (Quail Creek State Park, Washington Co.). Also present were a couple Wilson's Warblers, Orange-crowned Warblers, MacGillivray's Warbler, and a single Nashville Warbler.
Aaron Smith (10 Sep 2007) - Aaron and Shauna Smith saw several Vaux's Swifts just below the reservoir at the Pine Valley campground in Southern Utah on the 5th. We also photographed a 1st year Broad-winged Hawk about a mile south of Kolob Reservoir on the same day. We located 2 California Condor's on the 6th along with a Zone-tailed Hawk in the same location as the Broad-winged Hawk. On the morning of the 6th we located a Green Heron at Spring's Pond in St. George. At Lytle Ranch on the 8th we found one of the Red-shoulder Hawks that have been previously reported.
Rick Fridell (10 Sep 2007) - This afternoon I photographed a female Blackpoll Warbler at the Red Hills Golf Course, upstream from the pond. There were also several Orange-crowned Warblers, a first-fall Townsend's Warbler, and many Warbling Vireos in the area.
Rick Fridell - Today (9/7) at Lytle Ranch (Washington Co.), Larry Tripp and
I saw a female Purple Finch. We heard a bird repeatedly giving a
musical two-syllable call note from a box elder along the main road north from
the orchard. Neither of us was familiar with this call, but before we could
locate the bird it flew down into the alfalfa field, about 10 feet from us. We
walked towards the bird and it flushed and flew across the field and perched
(along with a bunch of sparrows) in a large box elder on the west edge of the
alfalfa field. It gave a single “pick” as it flew up. Still not sure what the
bird was, we eventually
located it perched in the tree, continuing to give it’s two-note call. We
believe it was of the Pacific race, due to an olive/yellowish wash on the
head. The finch then flew off to the south.... Before it flew, we were able
to get some views of the bird noting bill shape, streaking, head pattern,
etc., and apparently the “pick” ...Other highlights at Lytle included: ...Red-shouldered
Hawk (at the pond) ...Northern Waterthrush (at the Big Cottonwood
Ranch road crossing)...
Kristin Purdy (5 Sep 2007) - Tim and Glenn arrived at Bob Lawson's house in Dammeron Valley, Washington County, at about 1:00 pm this afternoon and saw the Lawrence's Goldfinch right away. Also on this trip they logged a Common Black-hawk and Black-tailed Gnatcatchers; I didn't ask about the location for those two birds, but assume it was Beaver Dam Wash and Lytle Ranch.
Tim Avery (3 Sep 2007) - At 10:15 this morning, I received a phone call from Bob Lawson who reported that a Lawrence's Goldfinch was at his feeder in Dammeron Valley, yet again. Bob was a very generous host in allowing birders to visit his home this spring, and has said it would be okay for those to visit again, as long as they write in advance and ask permission to be there. Just showing up is not okay. Bob can be reached by email at: boblaw@infowest.com.
Aug 2007
Colby Neuman (26 Aug 2007) - Tim Avery and I went down... to southwestern Utah, and by evening, we were birding flocks in and around Lava Point in Zion NP. Within a 1/2 mile of the point, we stopped for our first flock. Literally, the first bird I put my binoculars was a nice female Hermit Warbler. ... A Zone-tailed Hawk was observed heading south over the valley to the north/northeast of Lava Point. ...Today, we birded Lytle Ranch, and found the two previously reported Red-shouldered Hawks. Both birds appeared to be immatures and they moved periodically between the orchard and the pond. Common Black-Hawks called from the forest to the west of the main housing area. ...We then headed to Gunlock Reservoir where a Brown-crested Flycatcher called from the riparian stretch just above the reservoir. Outside of Lytle Ranch, I don't know how extensively these birds are found in Washington County?
Larry Tripp (26 Aug 2007) - Spending some time at my new soon to be yard in Veyo this weekend I was able to add a few good birds to the yard list. The biggest surprise was a bright boldly marked adult looking Clay-colored Sparrow. I watched and photographed it on and off most of the morning in a weedy patch in the yard. We were going to pull some off the weeds in that area but I think were going to leave them now. It's on the early side for a Clay-colored and I wasn't expecting it to be the first Spizella in the yard. Cassin's Vireo, Willow Flycatcher and MacGillivray's Warbler were a couple of the other new yard birds this weekend.
Rick Fridell (10 Aug 2007) - This evening there was a first-year female type Hermit Warbler at Oak Grove Campground, Washington County, Utah. Oak Grove Campground is managed by the Dixie National Forest and is accessed through Silver Reef.
Milt Moody (7 Aug 2007) - Merrill Webb just called and reported that he
went back to Lytle Ranch this morning and found the Red-shouldered Hawk he say
yesterday, then another one flew in -- so make that TWO Red-shouldered
Hawks at Lytle
Ranch.
Glenn B. Barlow (6 Aug 2007) - Just received a telephone call from Merrill Webb. At this moment he is at Lyttle Ranch and he called me at 8:30 p.m. Five minutes earlier, at 8:25 p.m., he was walking toward the orchard and saw a hawk on the ground. He put his binoculars on it and could see immediately it was NOT a Red-tailed Hawk. As he looked just before it flew, and as it flew, he could see it was a Red-shouldered Hawk!
Jul 2007
Tim Avery (19 Jul 2007) - Tuesday night at 9:45 pm, Stacie Schoppman and I heard an Elf Owl in the Beaver Dam Wash, just south of Lytle Ranch Preserve. The area where the bird was heard was just after you cross Beaver Dam Creek below the ranch. The bird was in what would be the west or south clump of trees. This is the grove where you can drive about 100 yards off the road into the small camping area, as opposed to the east grove which is all posted as Private Property...
Tim Avery (19 Jul 2007) - 07/17 - 3 Brown-crested Flycatcher at Lytle Ranch...
Larry Tripp (2 Jul 2007) - At my house in Central in Washington County tonight there is a Bronzed Cowbird. I first saw it at the bird bath. Then I watched it and took some photos of it on the power line in the yard. It flew off when I went out to put more seed out so hopefully it will come back. It's a female.
Jun 2007
Tim Avery (28 Jun 2007) - ... a large hummingbird that flew by where the road crosses Beaver Dam Creek just below Lytle Ranch last night (06/27). I saw the bird for about 5 seconds as it flew by and off into the hunting preserve to the south. As it flew by I was immediately aware of its large size for a hummer. ...As I struggled to put things together, I thought it had to be either a Magnificent or a Blue-throated Hummingbird based off what I saw. The size alone was astonishing, and coupled with the other field marks I would have to favor Blue-throated Hummingbird. I hesitate to say for sure that it was a Blue-throated, but I can't fathom what else it could have been... Such is life. ...I was able to spend a few hours at Kolob Terrace earlier in the week, and was rewarded with great looks at at least 2 different Zone-tailed Hawks. The birds were seen in several locations: At Kolob Creek Crossing where the creek plunges over the cliffs, and along the road to Lava Point over the pond and fields. ...Yesterday afternoon at Lytle Ranch I was able to view 3 Common Black-Hawk, one of which was a nestling that wasn't quite "black" yet.
May 2007
Larry Tripp (26 May 2007) - Birding today in Washington County I saw some great birds. I started at Lytle Ranch and there were good numbers of birds around. By far the best thing was what appeared to be a Gray-cheeked Thrush. It was in the area under the Mulberry tree below the caretakers house. Also in the same area were 2 Swainson's Thrush's for great comparisons. I just got back from a trip in the East where I saw several Gray-cheeked and many Swainson's and I wouldn't have had a problem calling this bird a Gray-cheeked there. But being here in Utah I was a bit hesitant. But everything about the bird seemed to be pretty straight forward as to the ID of the bird. Also at Lytle there was a singing male Bobolink in the Orchard.... On the way home I birded along the Santa Clara river above Gunlock Res. and saw a Very nice looking male Blackpoll Warbler.
Colby Neuman (23 May 2007) - I talked to Tim Avery about a few more sightings he had a couple days ago... He had at least one Bendire's Thrasher singing at (or pretty nearby) Zella Tank on the Beaver Dam Slope (Washington Co.)... On a riparian survey he had south of Springdale (Washington Co.), he had one Rufous-crowned Sparrow singing early in the morning as well as a male Indigo Bunting. I believe these birds were both seen in locations that were inaccessible to the public due to private property.
Rick Fridell (22 May 2007) - There was a singing male Northern Parula in St. George along 700 West, in the mulberry trees along the apartments. I first heard it yesterday, and it was still there singing this afternoon (5/22, 4:45p).
Joshua Kreitzer (20 May 2007) - I located a beautiful male Rose-breasted Grosbeak near the Springdale Pond (behind Switchback Grille in Springdale) around noon on Saturday, May 19. The bird was found as I led the local Red Cliffs Audubon club on a field trip to Grafton, Springdale, and Kolob Mountain.
Colby Neuman (20 May 2007) - Tim Avery called me to report a female Dickcissal at Lytle Ranch. The bird was at the south end of the orchard.
Rick Fridell (6 May 2007) - Yesterday, a female Calliope Hummingbird made a rare appearance at our feeders (in Canyon Ridge, Hurricane).
Apr 2007
Rick Fridell (28 Apr 2007) - This morning (4/28), Quinn and I headed for cooler temperatures and explored the area around Lava Point, Kolob Meadows, and Kolob Reservoir.... We also observed a few California Condors flying over Lava Point and the Kolob Meadows, and saw five species of woodpeckers, including a male Acorn Woodpecker in the large aspen grove just south of the reservoir, and a couple Lewis's Woodpeckers in the Kolob Meadows. The Acorn Woodpecker was very active and we observed it on three separate occasions between 9:30 and 1:00.
Larry Tripp (28 Apr 2007) - Today Saturday at Lytle Ranch there was a Clay-colored Sparrow and a Broad-winged Hawk. The Sparrow was in the area to the right after going through the gate and was also seen later near the restrooms. I don't know what to think of the Broad-winged if it's still the same bird from last weekend or not. It was seen in the same area as last weekend and also around the trailer.
Merrill Webb (23 Apr 2007) - Lytle's Ranch was a good place to be (50 species for the morning)... In the cottonwood forest upstream from the irrigation pond I watched a Least Flycatcher for a couple of minutes while it foraged from the low branches of what understory is remainging after the devastating floods two years ago. Near the ranchhouse I started out in the early morning with a Golden-crowned Sparrow feeding with a small flock of White-crowned Sparrows. At almost the same spot four hours later I watched a male Black-and-White Warbler foraging creeper-like on the trunk of a large cottonwood. A nice way to complete the morning's effort.
Larry Tripp (20 Apr 2007) - I went to Lytle Ranch this morning and there were amazing numbers of migrants there. The best birds were a Broad-winged Hawk that I flushed out of the trees along the creek to the west of the entrance gate and a Golden-crowned Sparrow that was coming into the water drip behind the restrooms.
Rick Fridell (8 Apr 2007) - Yesterday (4/7), baby Quinn and I went to Zion N.P. to ride the bus (and listen for Redstarts!) and we heard at least three singing Painted Redstarts in Zion Canyon. One was downstream of Weeping Rock, the second was at the Temple of Sinawava parking area/ bus stop/ restrooms area (exactly where Larry heard it on 4/6) and the other was a short ways up the Riverside Walk between the marshy area and the alcove hanging garden.
Larry Tripp (8 Apr 2007) - Birding yesterday morning at Lytle there were good numbers of migrants moving through. A lot of Zonotrichia Sparrows. 1 White-throated Sparrow... 1 Harris's Sparrow ...Tons of White-crowned... 3 Vireo's... Bells... Gray... Cassin's Vireo...
Larry Tripp (6 Apr 2007) - Today in Zion Park I saw a Painted Redstart at the Temple of Sinawava. I heard the bird singing away as soon as I got off the shuttle bus. It stayed around the north end of the parking area and the slope behind the restrooms.
Larry Tripp (2 Apr 2007) - Today migrating through Central in Washington County I saw a Broad-winged Hawk.
Mar 2007
Tim Avery (31 Mar 2007) - This morning it was up bright and early and headed to Lytle Ranch. I headed north through the ranch and up the wash. I was hoping to find a Black-Hawk to add to my Utah list so I headed north of the ranch to a patch of trees that looked really promising. (I had checked a spot near the monument that I was told to but no birds were there). I walked up the river hoping to flush a bird that might be perched over the water hunting. As luck would have it that is just what happened! ...This morning around 11:00 am as I made my way back to Lytle Ranch from the Beaver Dam wash just to the north, I heard a Clay-colored Sparrow singing on the west slope of the wash. The bird could be heard several times buzzing as I walked down stream. The area where the bird was hear is about a 1/2 mile north of where the road washes out at the north end of Lytle Ranch Preserve.
Tim Avery (31 Mar 2007) - The Lawrence's Goldfinch in Dammeron Valley was seen again today in the a.m. by Jack Binch and Larry Tripp. I received a call from Bob Lawson at 10:30 telling me the bird had showed back up at his backyard feeders. The bird was associating with a flock of Lesser Goldfinches and both times it was seen (today and yesterday) it arrived with a flock. It would appear that there are several flocks moving around the Dammeron Valley area which would account for the birds random appearances.
Carol Davis (26 Mar 2007) - Bob Lawson in Dammeron Valley in Southern Utah sent me a picture of what he thought was an American Goldfinch but it is in reality a Lawrence's Goldfinch. The photo was taken 3-20-07 in his back yard. He may be emailed at boblaw@infowest.com or phoned at 1-435-5743335.
Rick Fridell - This afternoon (3/14), I took advantage of the added hour of daylight and visited Sand Hollow State Park. The first winter male and female Black Scoter were actively diving in the area east of the West Dam. I also counted between 25 and 30 Horned Grebes on Sand Hollow. Typically there are one, or maybe two, Horned Grebes wintering in Washington County, but this year has been exceptional with regular counts of over 20 at Sand Hollow.
Laurie Rasmussen - Tonight (Mon.3-12) Kevin Wheeler & I went to the St. George Golf Course ponds to find a Greater White-Fronted Goose... Two were found eating with the Canada Geese on the western pond along Larkspur Rd. right as the evening turned dark.
Tim Avery (11 Mar 2007) - A trip up to Gunlock yielded... 9 Species of Waterfowl including at least 3 Greater Scaup were present as well.
Tim Avery (11 Mar 2007) - This morning Dave Slager and I relocated the 2 Black Scoter reported by Rick Fridell 2 weeks ago at Sand Hollow State Park in Washington County. The birds were seen along the west dam about 400 yards from the parking lot. One bird had a distinctive yellow knob while the other was a juvenile or female bird... Other birds of note in Washington County this weekend... Harris's Sparrow 2 miles north of Lytle Ranch 03/09 in the Beaver Dam Wash. Likely same bird form the ranch in search of food?
Larry Tripp (2 Mar 2007) - Today at Lytle Ranch there were signs that spring is just around the corner...The best bird was a Yellow-belied Sapsucker in the cottonwoods near the entrance gate. The bird appeared to be a female but was still mostly in Juvenile plumage. The wintering Harris's Sparrow was still in the same area between the bathrooms and the water drip. A out of place Black-capped Chickadee was along the stream below the turnoff into the Ranch. It's the first Black-capped I've seen out there.
Feb 2007
Rick Fridell (23 Feb 2007) - This afternoon between 4:00 and 5:00 pm, there were two Black Scoters at Sand Hollow State Park, Washington Co., UT. A first winter male and female scoter stayed in very close proximity to each other, diving and swimming in tandem. The birds were actively foraging directly south of the main parking lot, and east of the west dam. They were several other species of ducks on the reservoir, including large numbers of Northern Pintails. Also present were 5-6 Horned Grebes. I'm surprised at the numbers of Horned Grebes wintering on Sand Hollow this year; I've never seen so many wintering in the county.
Rick Fridell (19 Feb 2007) - This morning, Kevin Wheeler and I visited Lytle Ranch. We saw and/or heard at least five Crissal Thrashers singing between the ranch houses and the pond. Overall it was rather quiet at Lytle, but we did find the continuing Harris's Sparrow near the restrooms. On our way out of the Beaver Dam Wash, we observed a flicker flying overhead....It had a large black central breast patch, and underside spotting and overall size also appeared to be appropriate for a Gilded Flicker. When it flew, it appeared to be yellow-shafted, but unfortunately it flew over the hill to the north.... Also the four Greater White-fronted Geese are remaining at the SR-9 (Hurricane) Sewer Ponds.
Tim Avery (4 Feb 2007) - This afternoon Colby Neuman and I found a male Anna's Hummingbird at the Red Cliffs Campground north of St. George. The bird was initially seen flying out of the campground and south out of view over the day use parking area. It flew over once again while we were up in the rocks to the southwest of the campground. A short time later I relocated the bird, in the picnic area, and as it squeaked at me, was able to locate it in the tree and confirm an all dark head of a male bird. Colby was able to let me know that the call I heard was a sure sign of a territorial male.
Jan 2007
Lu Giddings (26 Jan 2007) - A Red-breasted Sapsucker was seen today at Lytle Ranch on a St. George Bird Festival field trip lead by Larry Tripp. The bird was spotted in the SE corner of the orchard, in a fruit tree on the fringe of the orchard and the mesquite bordering the orchard. It was seen in the same tree from about 8:30 a.m. until nearly noon. A few rather blurry photos were taken and will be forwarded to Utah Birds.
Rick Fridell (20 Jan 2007) - Sorry for the late notice on this one. On January 15 and 16, Kristen and I made our annual winter trip to Zion Canyon. Avian highlights included a Winter Wren along the outflow from Icicle Rock (er, I mean Weeping Rock)... Also the wintering Varied Thrush, first found by Kevin and Aaron in December, is remaining at the Springdale Pond.
Larry Tripp (19 Jan 2007) - The White-throated Sparrow was along the Virgin River walkway between St. George and Bloomington. It was about one mile north of the Man O War parking lot in Bloomington.
Rick Fridell (14 Jan 2007) - Today in the Hurricane Fields I saw several Lapland Longspurs accompanying the huge flocks of Horned Larks. There are several thousand Horned Larks moving throughout the Hurricane Fields. I managed to pick out a few Lapland Longspurs in most flocks that remained settled long enough to work through them with a scope. In one flock I saw at least 8-10 longspurs.
Rick Fridell - I observed an adult White-throated Sparrow in the willows along the Virgin River adjacent to the Springdale Pond, on Sunday 1/7. Also there was a nice variety of ducks on the pond, including a couple species rarely observed in Springdale (female Redhead and 3 female Buffleheads).
Larry Tripp (4 Jan 2007) - Lytle Ranch... Harris's Sparrow was a winter
plumaged Adult. It was just east of the entrance gate along the trail just past
the covered picnic tables by the fire pit surrounded by the log seats. It was
with a small group of White-crowned Sparrows.
Rick Fridell (4 Jan 2007) - There was a large flock of geese on the SR-9
(Hurricane) Sewer Ponds today, including 123 Canada Geese, 3 Greater
White-fronted Geese, 3 Snow Geese, and 2 Ross's Geese... Also the 7
Tundra Swans are continuing at Sand Hollow State Park (Washington Co.).
Dec 2006
Kevin Wheeler (26 Dec 2006) - If you didn't participate in the St. George CBC today, you missed out... Good birds reported included two Ross's Goose (Springs Park and St. George Golf Club Pond), five Wood Ducks (a pair was on the St. George Golf Club Pond, others were in the north end of Bloomington). Two Peregrine Falcons (Washington Area), 7 Vermilion Flycatchers (one near Riverside drive, others in Bloomington). Of particular note is that the hundreds of crows that were here a month ago have disappeared - only seven were counted. Eurasian Collared-Doves are plentiful now - 445 counted. And the species on the count with the highest numbers - no, not European Starlings, House Sparrows, or even White-crowned Sparrows - American Coots - 2,266 total.
Kevin Wheeler (17 Dec 2006) - The Zion Christmas Bird Count on Friday was great. The total number of species was about 90, probably a high for the history of this count. One highlight was a Varied Thrush observed at Springdale Pond at approximately 11:30 by myself and Aaron Keller. It perched up on a Russian olive briefly and allowed a good, if brief view. I went to grab my camera, but the bird had flown by the time I got back. We could not relocate the bird then or when we re-visited the area about 3:30, but there are a lot of American Robins in the area, and I imagine that he was associating with them.
Keith Davis (7 Dec 2006) - The Vermilion Flycatcher is still in my
back yard.... 3 weeks now. I hope it stays till the Winter Bird Festival... .
I live in Bloomington Ranches, but sometimes I think it is paradise.
Larry Tripp ( 3 Dec 2006) - Today along the Santa Clara river at the south end
of Gunlock in Washington Co. I saw a White-throated Sparrow in with a
large flock of Sparrows, Junco's and Am. Goldfinches.
Rick Fridell (3 Dec 2006) - A quick update to let you all know that the road up to Kolob Reservoir is still open. Despite the cold weather there are still a few California Condors hanging around the area...We also saw a flock of Acorn Woodpeckers along the road exactly one mile north of the Kolob Ck. crossing and one mile south of the reservoir. At this location, there is an old corral in an aspen grove west of the road and several oaks on the slope east of the road. I counted at least five Acorn Woodpeckers, but there could have been more. There were also several Lewis's Woodpeckers in the mixed woodpecker flock. Lewis's Woodpeckers were also observed at several other locations along the road between Lava Point and the reservoir.
Nov 2006
Larry Tripp (30 Nov 2006) - Birding in Washington county today felt more like I was birding in Canada! Very cold for this area. So I guess when I stopped at Gunlock Res. and there was a female Barrow's Goldeneye mixed in with the Common's it was only fitting. It's the first one I've seen in the county.
Merrill Webb (20 Nov 2006) - Went birding for a short time on Saturday afternoon at Stratton's (Grandpa's) pond between Hurricane and St. George. There were 25-30 Hooded Mergansers, many Canvasbacks, quite a few Greater Scaups, and very few dabbling ducks. Then went over to St. George where I found a Vermilion Flycatcher (immature male) south of town just north of the Virgin River.
Utah Birds (13 Nov 2006) - A sight record was received for an adult male Black-throated Blue Warbler in Zion NP. The bird was seen last week on the 7th of Nov., but if you're around there it would hurt to check it out. It was seen at Site C26, Watchman Campground, in the park.
Oct 2006
Larry Tripp (29 Oct 2006) - Another White-throated Sparrow (tan-stripped) show up in the yard on Friday.I haven't seen it since but I've been gone most of the weekend. There was also a Winter Wren in St. George on Friday and as far as I know the Veery was last seen on Thursday late.
Larry Tripp (26 Oct 2006) - This afternoon at Red Hills G C in St. George there was a Veery. The bird was seen and heard in the row of willows and tamarisk that run between the first and third hole. It's quite late for any species of Catharus Thrush other than Hermit so it may not be around for long.
Rick Fridell - This evening (October 25, 2006), Kristen, Quinn, and I went by Stratton Pond (Grandpa's Fishing Pond, Hurricane, Washington Co.) and were very surprised to see an adult male White-winged Scoter among the many ducks on the pond. It is really a treat to get close looks at this beautiful duck. Other waterfowl highlights around the county include the first-winter Surf Scoter remaining at Baker Reservoir, a pair of first-winter Greater White-fronted Geese at the Sunbrook Golf Course, and the continuing Ross's Goose at the St. George Golf Course, Middle Pond.
Larry Tripp (25 Oct 2006) - Yesterday afternoon there was a HY type Surf Scoter at Baker Res. Both Baker and Gunlock Reservoirs have pretty good numbers of waterfowl on them now along with a few Common Loon's and Grebes. Winter Wrens are back along the Santa Clara river. There seems to be some somewhere between Baker Res. and St. George every fall/winter. There were 2 of them below Gunlock Res.
Rick Fridell (22 Oct 2006) - This afternoon we walked down to Stratton Pond (Grandpa's Fishing Pond) in Hurricane, and were surprised to see several waterfowl species making their first appearance for the winter, including; at least 10 Greater Scaup, a couple male Hooded Mergansers, and a pair of Canvasback. Also present were Western Grebes, Pied-billed Grebes, American Wigeon, Cinnamon Teal, Lesser Scaup, Ring-necked Ducks, and Ruddy Ducks.
Dennis Shirley (22 Oct 2006) - I made a over night trip to Lytle Ranch on friday and saturday ...I did find one exceptionally unusual bird. A Varied Thrush was in the groove of cottonwoods above the trailer at the headquarters. It was alone and was seen fly up from the ground into the trees, then move through the branches from tree to tree. It appeared to be a female, with a gray breast band and orange supercilium and wing bars. Overall, birding was slow. But its alway a fun place to go. You never know what will show up.
Larry Tripp (16 Oct 2006) - A female Yellow-shafted Flicker was in my yard today. If it stays around I would assume it's the same bird that was in the area all last winter.
Larry Tripp (15 Oct 2006) - A friend from So. Cal. Peyton Cook and I saw
several good birds in Washington Co. over the last couple days. ...At Lytle
Ranch we saw a Red-breasted Sapsucker in the orchard that showed no
signs of being a hybrid (you have to be very careful in this area) that we
have great pics of. There was probably 20+ R N Sapsuckers also there. In the
trees just past the orchard there was a HY Tennessee Warbler and a
Hammond's Flycatcher was by the pond. ...Below Gunlock Res. along the Santa
Clara there was a Golden-crowned Sparrow, Slate colored Fox Sparrow and
a N. Waterthrush. ...In and around St. George we saw a probable
Least Flycatcher, another Hammond's Flycatcher a Dusky Flycatcher and a
late Virginia's Warbler.
Larry Tripp (15 Oct 2006) - The best bird was probably today in Central at a
totally unexpected location. ...My girlfriend and I decided to walk out to the
mailbox (which is about a 1/4 mile from my house and I always take Binns when
I walk out there) and when we got to the end of my street I heard a Warbler
chip that didn't sound like a western type chip that I've been hearing lately.
After a minute of looking I saw something else moving around and when I got on
it I couldn't believe what I was looking at. It was a beautiful tail pumping
Prairie Warbler! It was a pretty bright looking bird that I would guess
was a HY male...
Larry Tripp (10 Oct 2006) - Unfortunately the only birding I've been able to do in the Co. lately has been in my yard. I shouldn't complain. Yard birding is better than no birding and I have seen a couple good birds. A White-throated Sparrow (adult white-striped) showed up yesterday and a one day adult male Rose-breasted Grosbeak was here on 9-30 but it has been fun just watching the summer birds gradually disappear and the winter birds starting to get more abundant... The last of the summer birds in my yard are 2 male Anna's Hummingbirds that are still hanging around the feeders but I'm sure they will move down to lower elevation soon after looking at the snow on top Pine Mountain from yesterday.
Sep 2006
mkdavis (25 Sep 2006) - Just got back from a long trip.... and guess what the best find was... Right in my back yard... a whole flock of sparrow-looking birds flew in. I was standing on the back porch, talking on the phone, when I looked more closely and found they were something special for my yard. - Three Clay Colored Sparrows... at least! - Four or five Chipping Sparrows... or more. - There were a few juveniles, just to make the id harder.
Larry Tripp (22 Sep 2006) - Yesterday I had a Sooty type Fox Sparrow come into the the water bath that I have in my yard. There doesn't seem to be many Fox Sparrows of any type seen in Washington Co. for some reason but the ones reported have been later in the fall. ...2 weeks ago I had a N. Waterthrush come in for a brief stay that really seemed out of place in Pinion Juniper Habitat without any nearby water except my water bath. And all the residents birds love it. ...There are also more Anna's Hummingbirds around in the last month than I've had the last couple of falls. I've seen at least 7 or 8 different birds around lately. Most of the other species have headed south. I've had a few Black chins, 1 Calliope this week and 1 immature male Rufous came in yesterday and was still out there today terrorizing the Anna's which are bigger than he is.
Rick Fridell (17 Sep 2006) - There seems to be a good flight of Vaux's Swifts through Washington County this morning (9/17). On the way to town, I saw at least two flying over the SR-9 (Hurricane) Sewer Ponds, another two in St. George, and one flying over the Flora-tech Fields on my way home. Also in St. George, I saw another American Redstart (female; this is definitely my bird of the season!), and a probable Least Flycatcher.
Lee Jones - I also saw 3 - 4 Vaux's Swifts today, about 11:30 am (Sept 17), near the pond at Red Hills Golf Course.
Rick Fridell - ...Other highlights included: Ash Creek Reservoir, Washington Co., 9/8 American Redstart (adult female).
Lu Giddings (3 Sep 2006) - While birding early yesterday afternoon in Confluence Park I encountered what I think may have been a Yellow-throated Vireo. It definitely was not a verdin, whatever it was. The bird was determinedly stuck in the thick tamarisk at the right base of the remaining intact foot bridge across the river (i.e., on the right side of the river as one proceeds down stream) and no amount of pishing could get it to show much more than it's head and upper back, and then only for a second or two at best. The bird was a small yellow bird with a dirty yellow-gray upper back and head and bright yellow spectacles around each eye and across the bridge of its black bill...
Aug 2006
David Wheeler (13 Aug 2006) - There was a female/immature Hermit Warbler in Pine Park (SW of Enterprise on a long dirt road) yesterday at 10:10 am. It was in part of a large mixed species flock working the Ponderosa pines in the general area of the bathrooms. ...I went up the Kolob Terraces road into Zion NP & beyond. I saw a Zone-tailed Hawk soaring above cabins just beyond where Kolob Creek crosses the highway. This has been a good area for them over recent years...I got a chance to see one of the California Condors (an adult named #50) soaring above me at Kolob Reservoir.
Lee Jones (8 Aug 2006) - I observed a Hermit Warbler (female) for about 5 minutes yesterday (Monday, 1:30 pm) on the Red Hills Golf Course, Saint George, Utah. There were 2 or 3 birds working together in the pine trees on the #2 green.
Jul 2006
Stephen Carlile (17 Jul 2006) - ...On Friday morning, 14 July, at 9:00 a.m., I and another birder, my brother, observed a Zone-tailed Hawk on the Silver Reef to Oak Grove Campground Road, approximately 5.5 miles from the Silver Reef south bound I-15 exit. The bird was seen where the second bridge crosses Leeds Creek. (Still lots of water in Leeds Creek.) The bird was observed for approximately 7 minutes; 1 min at 100 feet, 3 minutes at 200 yards on a boulder with full sun behind us, and 3 minutes soaring over head. All diagnostic field marks were noted; gray-black color, small beak, bright yellow legs, longer tail, tail barring present but not strong and only seen clearly when the bird was in the 100 foot range (would suggest a juvenile bird). When soaring, barring of under-wing remiges with dark edging and Turkey Vulture-like wing posturing stood out. A great look and a lifer for me and my brother. My brother, who lives in Boston, has something to tell his birding friends about.
Josh Kreitzer (7 Jul 2006) - I observed a male Rufous Hummingbird today and yesterday in Enterprise...A male Calliope Hummingbird was also observed there today. It is only the second time I've seen the species, and in the same place as the first (a year or so ago)...
Jun 2006
Charles Sheard (29 Jun 2006) - Judy Jordan's son, John, reports finding a pair of Common Black-Hawks near Lytle ranch. More exactly, about 500 yards south of Lytle in the cottonwood trees.
May 2006
Rick Fridell (21 May 2006) - There is indeed a pair of Painted Redstarts nesting along the Riverside Walk Trail, Zion National Park, Washington Co., UT. On May 7th, Kristen and I observed them at a nest located on the canyon wall in a hanging garden along the trail. The nest is further upstream than the location used last year. It's certainly possible that Redstarts are using other similar habitats in Zion, so keep an eye out along the Emerald Pools Trail, Heap's Canyon, Birch Creek, Pine Creek, etc.
Josh Kreitzer (16 May 2006) - My wife, Cary, and I relocated a Painted Redstart (male) most of the way up the Riverside Walk at the North end of Zion Canyon in Zion National Park. The bird was beautiful, tame, and seemingly unfazed by three other observers who pointed us to the bird by their rapt attention thereon. One of them was apparently taking photos of it .... Other birds of note seen in Washington City, Utah this weekend: Inca Dove, Eurasian Collared-Dove, Phainopepla, and Abert's Tohwee.
Joel Beyer (4 May 2006) - Kathy and I made a quick trip to the St. George area earlier this week, with the highlights as follows: Toniquint Park (St. George) - Lesser Nighthawks, Sora, Yellow-breasted Chat - Utah Hill area (Old Hwy 91)- Gray Vireo, Black-chinned Sparrow - Lytle Ranch road - Black-tailed Gnatcatcher, Brown-crested Flycatcher, Scott's Oriole, Crissal Thrasher - Lytle Ranch - White-winged Dove, Bell's Vireo, Common Yellowthroat, Black-headed Grosbeak, Phainopepla, Verdin, Gr. Roadrunner, Scott's Oriole, Brown-crested Flycatcher, Common Black-Hawk (north of the pond, flying up the wash) - Welcome Springs (spur off Lytle Ranch road) - Bushtit, B-T Gray Warbler, B-C Sparrow, Rufuous-crowned Sparrow, Scott's Oriole, Costa's Hummingbird, Cooper's Hawk (on nest) - Dixie Red Hills Golf Course - Vermillion Flycatcher, Hooded Oriole, Cassin's Kingbird - Zion National Park - Painted Redstart (Riverside Walk, near Hanging Gardens), Peregrine Falcon, Summer Tanager (VC parking lot), Plumbeous Vireo - Hurricane - Inca Doves. A short trip, but wonderful birding!
Apr 2006
Rick Fridell - Saturday (4/29) Rob Dobbs and I observed a male Varied Thrush along the Beaver Dam Wash at the road crossing below Lytle Ranch. We were very surprised to see it, and just as surprised a few moments later to hear it singing. Also Yesterday (4/30), Rob, Kristen, and I saw a Painted Redstart in Zion NP; it was foraging and singing in the oaks along the Riverside Walk just before the first major hanging gardens area.
Carol Davis (24 Apr 2006) - Marilyn Davis and I stopped by Ivins Reservoir on the way to Lytle Ranch on Monday...There was...a Brown-crested Flycatcher singing from the tops of the bushes not far from the parking lot. ...On the way in to Lytle Ranch...we also spotted a few Black-chinned Sparrows...and more Brown-crested Flycatchers...
Larry Tripp (23 Apr 2006) - Most of the western migrants and local breeders have arrived in the county over the last couple of weeks. Highlights for myself have included an adult Broad-winged Hawk going north over Veyo today and on Friday a Vaux's Swift that I saw flying around with the Swallows at Gunlock Res.
Rick Fridell (16 Apr 2006) - We have several male Black-chinned Hummingbirds visiting the yard and feeders, along with 4-5 male Costa's Hummingbirds... They seldom come to the feeders, but there are usually several feeding on the penstemons in the front yard in the evening (an hour or so before dark) and are visible from the road (290 North). Also there are several Inca Doves calling around the Canyon Ridge neighborhood.
Rick Fridell (6 Apr 2006) - The recent series of storms passing through Washington County have led to some spectacular fallouts of migrants and waterbirds at Quail Creek and Sand Hollow State Parks. So I had a chance to drop by Sand Hollow briefly today (4/5/06) around 12:30p. Numbers of birds weren't high, but there was a 2nd spring Heermann's Gull (molting into adult plumage) with about 40 Ring-billed Gulls. The birds were below the west dike and visible from the south end of the main parking lot... Also at Sand Hollow was a single Herring Gull, a Marbled Godwit, and a few Snowy Plovers.
Bob & Georgene Bond (2 Apr 2006) - A single Black Hawk was observed in Beaver Dam wash on Friday afternoon, March 24. The bird was perched on a dead snag hanging over the east side of the stream about 250 to 300 yards south of where the road crosses the wash. We saw no Black Hawks north of the ranch house in their usual location.
Mar 2006
Bob & Georgene Bond (25 Mar 2006) - A single Black Hawk was observed in Beaver Dam wash on Friday afternoon, March 24. The bird was perched on a dead snag hanging over the east side of the stream about 250 to 300 yards south of where the road crosses the wash. We saw no Black Hawks north of the ranch house in their usual location...
Larry Tripp (14 Mar 2006) - With the over 2 feet of snow that fell in my yard last weekend I was surprised to see a female type Lark Bunting show up on Monday and it was still around tonight. It's not a bird I would have ever expected to show up in the pinion juniper habitat where I live but with all the snow in the area I guess anywhere they can find food they will take it.
Larry Tripp (5 Mar 2006) - A Male Anna's Hummingbird was singing and displaying In the hills above lower Sand Cove Res. on Saturday .It seemed a little early for one to be seen away from known over wintering feeder birds that are around. I also saw a pair of Rufous-crowned Sparrows in the same area.
Feb 2006
Josh Kreitzer (26 Feb 2006) - ...in Washington City, I went to my backyard. Two Inca Doves, 2 Eurasian Collared-Doves, a N. Mockingbird, and an Orange-crowned Warbler greeted me. I was very impressed.
Tim Avery (25 Feb 2006) - The Eastern Phoebe reported by Larry Tripp was still present this morning as of 11:00 am just to the west of the houses at Lytle Ranch.
Larry Tripp (12 Feb 2006) - Today Sunday in Washington County I had a nice day of birding...Just after arriving in the area around the houses [Lytle Ranch] I saw an Eastern Phoebe which was a nice surprise. It was being chased around by a Black Phoebe. Eastern Phoebe's can start moving pretty early in spring but at this date I would guess it must be wintering there or somewhere near by. There was also a Say's Phoebe in the orchard for all 3 Phoebe's at Lytle today! On my way home I went by Gunlock Res. and I saw a pair of Adult Trumpeter Swans on the Res.
Jan 2006
Tim Avery (16 Jan 2006) - I made my first trip to St. George for the year over the weekend. ...Sunday I met up with Rick Fridell and Merrill Webb at the Red Hills Golf Course, where we located a "Western" Flycatcher, almost certainly a first winter record for Utah, the only question is to what "Western" bird is it? ...over to the Southgate Golf Course, where we saw 2 Ross's Geese, 3 Snow Geese, several Canvasback's, and what could only be called an absolutely stunning male Vermillion Flycatcher, which Rick spotted across the Club House Pond...And at Stratton Pond were around 7 or 8 Hooded Merganser and several Greater Scaup...
Dec 2005
Rick Fridell (23 Dec 2005) - ...I've finally been able to get out a bit and
here are some Washington County highlights: This evening (12/22) there were
two first winter Tundra Swans on Stratton Pond, Hurricane. Stratton
Pond continues to host a few Greater Scaup and huge numbers of
Hooded Mergansers (usually 50-80)....Yesterday I saw a flock with FIVE
species of Geese at the SR-9 (Hurricane) Sewer Ponds. The flock was grazing on
the grassy hillside between the ponds.
There were about 40 Canada Geese, 5 or so Ross's Geese, 3-4 Snow Geese,
a first winter White-fronted Goose, and a probable Cackling Goose
(I guess perhaps I should say 4 and half species of Geese). The possible
Cackler was about the same size as the WF Goose, with a very small wide bill,
dark breast, and distinct white collar. If pressed, I guess I would label it
Aleutian (lueopareia), but would appreciate hearing the thoughts of any other
observers...
Charles/Marilyn Sheard (11 Dec 2005) - 14 Red Cliffs Audubon Society birders...Strattton pond (a.k.a "Grandpa's Fishin Hole") for a variety of waterfowl. This is where you'll find an amazing number of Hooded Mergansers plus both Greater and Lesser Scaups, Redheads, Canvasbacks, etc. The Scaups gave us good comparison looks at the differences in head color and shape. The Hurricane fields are full of raptors now...
Nov 2005
Larry Tripp (13 Nov 2005) - On Friday in the St George area I saw a Chestnut-sided Warbler and a Gray Catbird and today at Zion's Park there were 2 N. Pygmy Owls near the visitors center.
Charles Sheard (13 Nov 2005) - A small group of 12 Red Cliffs Audubon society members met Saturday to bird St. George. ...on to the Washington Fields...A flock of Eurasian Collared-Doves occupied a row of fence posts. These, in turn, had the attention of two Merlins. One Merlin was successful in dispatching a Mourning Dove in flight. Fascinating! A Russian Olive tree at the far end of the fence row was the home of a male Vermilion Flycatcher, stunningly red...
Pat Richards - (8 Nov 2005) - [Red-breasted Sapsucker] Sighted at Sunbrook Golf course in St. George, the Woodbridge nine. Completely red head with very distinct white stripe below the eye, very small one (almost a dot) above. The Sidley field guide is the closest representation--others I have checked do not show much of a white stripe. I reported this to the naturalist at Snow Canyon the next day and hope someone will try to get another look at this bird...It was quite calm on the trunk of a small tree near the cart path and allowed me to get very close in the golf cart and view it from several angles.
Charles Sheard (4 Nov 2005) - The Dixie Birders stayed in town today...we went to the Red Hills Golf Course fer some birdin' and here's what we saw: ...White-throated Sparrow (1st winter), ...we wondered over to the Stone Bridge and Sun Brook golf courses fer a squint at the ponds. ...Great Egret...
Oct 2005
Larry Tripp (23 Oct 2005) - Some interesting birds were at Lytle on Saturday. A male Yellow-shafted Flicker that didn't show any signs of being a hybrid and a mix of mountain birds. The Flicker was the second Yellow-shafted male in just over a week after only ever seeing one before in Utah. The other birds were a Winter Wren, Golden-crowned Kinglet ( Both were new Lytle birds for me) and a couple of Brown Creepers. There are still a lot of R N Sapsuckers and a couple R B X R N Sapsuckers in the orchard. One looks a lot like a R B Sapsucker so be careful.
Kevin Wheeler (22 Oct 2005) - This afternoon I watched an adult male Anna's Hummingbird at the Red Cliffs Campground, and then saw two others in Leeds. Also saw a couple Orange-crowned Warblers and lots of American Wigeon at the Springs Park Pond.
Matt Williams (15 Oct 2005) - Winter Wren - 1 (and likely 2) at the foot of the Pine Valley Reservoir dam on 10/15 Saw and heard them. Tiny size, unique call, short tail and heavy barring on the flanks helped distinguish them from the somewhat similar House Wren. I'm 99% sure there was two but I only got good looks at one at a time.
Larry Tripp (15 Oct 2005) - Birded the last couple of days with a friend visiting from Southern California, Peyton Cook. Started Thursday with a Chestnut-sided Warbler in the St. George area. This nice first fall female was seen only on Thursday. ...Today in St. George (with Rick Fridell etc. all) we had a Western Screech-Owl and another White-throated Sparrow.
Sep 2005
Rick Fridell - tonight (9/29) just before dark (6:45) I stopped by the Hurricane (SR-9) Sewage Ponds. I was surprised to see several good birds including a Horned Grebe, a juvenile Sanderling, and my first Pectoral Sandpiper of the fall (in Washington Co.).
Larry Tripp (26 Sep 2005) - I spent Saturday afternoon on the top of the Beaver Dam mountains above Lytle Ranch in hopes of seeing some migrating Raptors...I was up there from 1:30 to 5:30 and was amazed at the number of birds I saw. I saw 14 different species including 2 Broad-winged Hawks...Here is a list of the birds, TV 4, Osprey 2, Harrier 1, Sharp-shinned 7, Cooper's 9, Goshawk 1, Accipiter sp. 10, Broad-winged 2, Swainson's 2, Red-tailed 9, Ferruginous 1, Buteo sp. 16, Golden Eagle 1, Kestrel 13, Merlin 3, Peregrine 1, Falcon sp. 3.
Denise & Joe Blyn (14 Sep 2005) - My husband and I went up to Kolob Creek overlook over Labor Day Weekend to see if any California Condors were hanging around. We approached the Kolob Meadows about 9 a.m....WOW! What a great morning! By 11:00 a.m. we had seen 12 California Condors! Numerous people kept stopping by, what a sight to see...We confirmed the following numbers: 3, -3, 03, 6, 48, 50, 57, 74, 75, 81, 91, 99. For those who haven't gone up the area yet...YOU GOTTA GO!
Larry Tripp (11 Sep 2005) - I saw a couple good birds in the county over the weekend. Saturday above Gunlock Res. I saw a Waterthrush that I wasn't able to get good look at so I went back there today to see if I could relocate it but I didn't see it. I did see a first fall male Rose-breasted Grosbeak and a male Anna's Hummingbird in the same area. But the best bird of the day was a Chestnut-sided Warbler at the south end of the town of Gunlock. There seemed to be a lot of birds out there today but the wind really started blowing by early afternoon and it made it very hard to get on anything.
Gary Rosenberg - While leading a Wings tour to Southwest Utah, this morning, Saturday 10 September, we found a singing male Painted Redstart at about 9:30 am along the Temple of Sinawava trail. The bird was photographed by two of our participants.
Larry Tripp (1 Sep 2005) - The Ruby-throated Hummingbird Was still in the back yard tonight as it got dark. There were 5 species tonight fighting over the feeders and the RTHU was still doing a great job of protecting his favorite feeder. 1 Adult male Anna's, 2 first fall male Rufous, 1 female type Calliope, Many Black-chinned and 1 Ruby-throated. Probably as many hummers as I've seen in the yard all year...
Aug 2005
Larry Tripp (31 Aug 2005) - We do have some nice photos of all the diagnostic field marks to separate this bird [Ruby-throated Hummingbird] from a Black-chinned. We will try to get them posted on the web site as soon as possible. As for the bird it is still sitting outside the window as am typing this. The weather really cooled off last night so it may not be around much longer.
J & K Beyer (29 Aug 2005) - ...at the Kolob Creek crossing/Condor viewing area on the Kolob Terrace Road ...yesterday evening we saw 2 Vaux's Swifts flying over this point, along with several dozen White-throated Swifts. Today we saw 2 Acorn Woodpeckers at the spot previously described by Rick Fridell.... Early this morning we saw Black-chinned, Rufous and Anna's Hummingbirds at the Sheard's in Leeds (thanks! C. & M.).
Larry Tripp (29 Aug 2005) - Tonight at my feeder in Central I watched a First fall male Ruby-throated Hummingbird. After very careful study to eliminate everything but a Archilochus Hummingbird while watching the bird through my scope I was able to see a few red gorget feathers. The bird was defending one of my feeders from all other hummers up until dark so I hope it will still be around in the morning. I did get some poor quality photos through my scope but I hope to get better ones in the morning. I will let you know if it's still around tomorrow if anyone wants to look for it.
Rick Fridell - Today (8/27) Kevin Wheeler, Larry Tripp, and I went to the Lava Point area of Zion NP...Unfortunately Kevin had another commitment and had to leave about 12:15, and you guessed it, Larry and I found a first year female type Hermit Warbler at about 12:25 (sorry Kevin). As typical, the Hermit was in a mixed flock mostly comprised of Mountain Chickadees and RB Nuthatches. Other warblers present included Orange-crowned, Virginia's, Nashville, and Townsends...
Larry tripp (20 Aug 2005) - This morning at Pine Valley in Washington Co. I saw a first fall female mixed in with a large flock of birds...Included in the flock was 7 species of Warbler ( mostly Grace's) 3 Species of Vireos (2 Cassin's) a lot of Nuthatches, Chickadees a couple W. Tanagers 2 Brown Creepers a Hermit Thrush and a Red-naped Sapsucker. I saw these birds near the Whipple Fork trailhead. About 50 Yards up the trail you cross the creek from there take the trail that forks to right. Down that trail about 100 yards is where I saw the birds.
Massimiliano Dettori (17 Aug 2005) - In a recent trip to Zion Canyon NP I have seen an adult Painted Redstart feeding a juvenile and I was wondering if it is a known breeder in Zion Park because in all my checklists and guides it says it is only a occasional migrant there...
Rick Fridell - Kristen and I spent Sunday and Monday (8/14-15) at Lava Point (Zion NP). One of the avian highlights was huge mixed flocks working the conifers between the Ranger's residence and the Picnic Area at Lava Point. The majority of the flocks are made up of Red-breasted Nuthatches and Mountain Chickadees, however we also saw a female Hermit Warbler, and a few Townsend's, Graces, Black-throated Gray, Orange-crowned, Virginia's, and Audubon's Warblers, Brown Creepers, WB Nuthatches, and BG Gnatcatchers mixed in....I also got a county bird: a Three-toed Woodpecker working a dead tree approximately 0.25 miles in on the West Rim Trail...
Rick Fridell - Last Sunday (8/7), Kristen and I saw a pair of Acorn Woodpeckers (male and female) in the Kolob Meadows between Kolob Reservoir and Lava Point ... The location is along the Kolob Terrace Road; if you're heading south from Kolob Reservoir it is exactly 1.0 mile south of the reservoir where the pavement starts, and if you're heading north from Lava Point / Blue Springs (and Virgin) it is exactly 1.0 mile north of the Kolob Creek crossing (Condor viewing area). ... I received a call yesterday (8/13) from Kevin Wheeler and Pam Larson and they found (after hearing) the woodpeckers in the oaks east of the road.
Charles/Marilyn Sheard (7 Aug 2005) - The hummingbird migration is gathering speed in S. Utah. This morning four species were using my two backyard feeders. Black-chinned, Broad-tailed (females and immatures), Rufus (one adult female) and Anna's (one adult male in molt). Best times to watch are mornings until an hour after dawn and evenings at twilight.
Jul 2005
Rick Fridell - Last Sunday (7/10), Larry Tripp and I decided to escape the heat and head up to the Kolob and Lava Point areas (Washington Co., UT). We were quickly rewarded with stunning views of California Condors soaring over the Kolob Meadows. One of the best spots to watch for the Condors is at the overlook near the lower Kolob Creek road crossing (north of Lava Point, where Kolob Creek plummets into the steep canyon). ...This is a great spot to watch for other soaring birds as well. We also saw Turkey Vultures, a Northern Goshawk, Red-tailed Hawks, Zone-tailed Hawks, and Common Ravens flying in the area. Again this year, the Zone-tailed Hawks (2) were primarily flying along the ridge to the east of the meadows. ...Perhaps the surprise of the trip however was a Winter Wren hanging out at Lava Point, near the north overlook. I'd be very interested if anyone else finds this little bird again. Listen for it's distinctive double-note call, but be careful as there are also House and Canyon Wren families in the area.
Judy Jordan (9 Jul 2005) - The Prothonotary Warbler was at the pond this morning at 0830 in the desert willow on the south side. I did not get any picture. He looked at me and then took off toward the fruit trees and sprinklers. I wasn't able to locate him there. Thanks Larry, a lifer for me.
Laurie Rasmussen (9 Jul 2005) - Not a surprise-Eurasian Collard Doves have also made their way to Santa Clara.
Larry Tripp (8 Jul 2005) - Today at Lytle Ranch there was a Prothonotary Warbler That I watched and photographed on and off for about 1 1/2 hours. I last saw it at about 9:30 AM. It was at the pond working it's way around the tree trunks and roots along the edge of the water. The bird would disappear at times back in the thick brush but would eventually come back out to the edge of the pond. If you go down there be there early because by 10:00 it starts to get very hot. If it stays around probably your best chance to see it is to just wait in the shade of the trees for it to show up.
Jun 2005
Peter Anderson (23 June 2005) - Scarlet Tanagers, male and female were flitting around by ZION park visitor center, campsites 20, 21 and bathroom (ZION park visitor center) checking empty tables and working the little streams for food sources. Trees to tables to tall grass to ground. they were in that area for 5 minutes.
Larry Tripp (19 June 2005) - Today at Lytle Ranch there was a female Common Ground-Dove. I last saw it about 9:00 am in the area around the pond. The only other bird of note was a late Wilson Warbler.
Bill Hunter (15 June 2005) - Enterprise, UT... Eurasian-Collared Dove - where aren't they anymore?..
Kevin Wheeler (9 June 2005) - I was at Gunlock Reservoir this afternoon...At the upper end of the Reservoir, the Common Black-Hawk is still hanging out.
Marcus Lawson (9 June 2005) ...Zone-tailed Hawk...Today I managed to get away for a full days birding and spent it touring round the top end of Kolob Terrace Road. At c11.30 as I was just approaching the Resr I saw a large dark bird of prey quite flying low down in front of me, although it superficially resembled a Turkey Vulture it was evident even with the naked eye that it was a Hawk. I sped up to the top of the hill to get even closer to the bird. As soon as I got my bins (10x42 Leica) on the bird it was clearly a predominantly all dark hawk with a white tail band on the underside (nearer the tip). As it banked I could see that it did not have a white rump thus eliminating Black Hawk. It gained height and joined 4 Turkey Vultures heading in a Northerly direction.
Judy Jordan (9 June 2005) - In Ivins on the corner of 40W 400 S... I saw three different kinds of doves in there, mourning, Eurasian Collard Dove, and white- winged. There may have been inca doves in there too.
Larry Tripp (1 June 2005) - Around noon today I saw a Northern Parula along the Santa Clara river below Baker Res. in Washington Co.
May 2005
Clare Oskay (30 May 2005) - ...Also, while in Zion National Park on May 15 we saw a Painted Redstart on the Riverside Trail. We reported it to the ranger, who said he had received four reports on the bird that day. It apparently has been in residence in the same spot for the past few summers.
Larry Tripp (28 May 2005) - This morning in the Beaver Dam Wash near the gate into Lytle Ranch there was a singing Male Scarlet Tanager. I last saw the bird at about 10:30 AM.
Rick Fridell (24 May 2005) - In case anyone's interested, both the female Long-tailed Duck and male Greater Scaup are remaining at the SR-9 (Hurricane) Sewer Ponds. This is quite a surprise as it's currently hard to find even a Gadwall or a N. Shoveler in Washington County...
Joel and Kathy (20 May 2005) - ...On the Lytle Ranch road, at the turnoff to Welcome Springs, there is a small pond. A Northern Waterthrush was skulking there on Sunday. Also White-winged Dove, Black-tailed Gnatcatcher, Pinyon Jay and Roadrunner. Blue-winged Teal at the north end of Gunlock Reservoir...
Judy (12 May 2005) - On wed I saw an Indigo bunting. It was past the kiosk where you enter into campgrounds A B and C on the left by the dumping station [Zion NP].
Mark Stackhouse (11 May 2005) - ...Some of the more unusual birds we saw were: ...Greater Scaup - Hurricane Sewage Lagoons...Long-tailed Duck - Hurricane Sewage Lagoons...Nashville Warbler - Dixie Red Hills Golf Course, St. George...
Larry Tripp (2 May 2005) - Yesterday on private property in Washington Co. I saw an adult Gray Hawk. It was along the Santa Clara river about 1/2 mile above the town of Gunlock. I watched the bird for about 10 Minutes until it moved into a thick area of Cottonwoods. Efforts to relocate the bird last night and tonight have been unsuccessful. Access is very limited so the bird could still be around. If anyone is in the area be on the lookout. Any additional sightings of this bird that isn't known to wander very far from the N. limits of it's breeding range along the Mexican border would be helpful.
Apr 2005
Carol Davis (18 April 2005) - On Monday we saw two Whimbrels, a Long-billed Curlew, and what appeared to be a Marbled Godwit along the shoreline of Sand Hollow Reservoir. They were about 50 feet to the left of the boat ramp off the main parking area. The Whimbrels were life birds for both Nicky and me and it certainly felt like we'd been looking our whole lives for those elusive birds.
Kevin Wheeler (9 April 2005) - Pamela Larson, Rachel Gubler, and I birded a couple trails in Zion this afternoon. The best find of the day was a pair of Painted Redstarts on the Riverside Walk Trail. They were just south of the last little hill before the end of the narrows (maybe 100 meters south). They were flying around together, acting like a pair.
Rick Fridell - This afternoon (4/09), I photographed an adult White-tailed Kite in the Washington Fields (Washington Co.). It was initially perched in the top of some dead tamarisks at the end of the Y-Drain (Northeast end of Seegmiller Marsh complex). It soared off to the south over Schmutz Hill, and then was observed an hour later in Washington along 300 East near the Washington Bridge (Virgin River).
Bill Hunter (9 April 2005) - ...The Dixie Birders decided to look to the north for a change...results below. Enjoy! SR-9 (Hurricane) SEWER PONDS...Long-tailed Duck - (1 - Female) This has got to be a first! ...at least for Washington Co. ...Great find Rick, thanks...Great Egret ...Merlin QUAIL CREEK RESERVOIR ...Horned Grebe (2) In with three Eared Grebes, but a distinct look. LEEDS - HIDDEN VALLEY ...Anna's Hummingbird (1) local resident, been here awhile.
Rick Fridell (8 April 2005) - There is an adult female Long-tailed Duck at the SR-9 (Hurricane) Sewer Ponds. She has been on the Northwest pond since at least Wednesday (4/6) and was still present this afternoon at 5:00p.
Richard Wood (5 April 2005) - Jill and Kirsten and I just returned form a weekend of birding/hiking/sight seeing at Zion National Park. ...We had a Painted Redstart on the Riverwalk Trail on Sunday. ... a Black Swift...along the canyon wall near the area where the shuttle bus stops at the Temple of Sinawava stop.
Kevin Wheeler (5 April 2005) - ...the Greater White-fronted Goose and Ross's Goose are still at the Springs Park Pond.
Mar 2005
KC Childs (28 Mar 2005) - On Saturday while hiking in Snow Canyon State Park I ran upon a Northern Goshawk along the petrified dunes trail. It was down in the junipers close to where the trail meets up with the three ponds trail.
(15 Mar 2005) - Merrill Webb reported a Bonapart's Gull at Gunlock Reservoir today at about 11:00 AM and a pair of Vermilion Flycatchers (male and female) between holes 3 and 5 of the Red Hills Golf Course in St. George.
Jim Bailey (5 Mar 2005) - My wife Judy and I just got back from St. George and Delta. Two interesting birds of note that gave us some really good looks were a Ross's Goose and a Greater White-fronted Goose hanging out with each other on the Spring Estates pond Thursday afternoon. We checked back Friday morning and they were gone, perhaps heading north.
Feb 2005
Kevin Wheeler (13 Feb 2005) - Laurie Rasmussen observed an adult and juvenile Harris's Sparrow at Boots Cox Park (at the end of Cox Landing off of 900 south in St. George) yesterday. I saw the juvenile today at 1:30, but didn't see the adult. It was hanging around with a group of white crowns on the dirt pathway behind the tennis courts. Way to go, Laurie.
Rick Fridell - Today (2/5) I photographed an immature Red-shouldered Hawk
in Virgin, Washington County, UT, near the Town Hall on Mill Road. The hawk was
observed briefly last Saturday during the St. George Winter Bird Festival by
Glenn Barlow and Alton Thygerson (Thanks for the tip Glenn). The hawk has
apparently been around for awhile, as I mentioned to Kevin Wheeler that I was
going to look for a small 'mystery' buteo in Virgin, and Kevin said that he and
Pam Larson also had a brief glimpse of the hawk on 1/21.
Rick Fridell - ...yesterday (2/4), there was a true Cackling Goose (tiny
goose with a round head, tiny bill, and dark breast) with ~ 30 Canada Geese on a
pond in Washington City...Other birds of note around the county include...two
Horned Grebes at Quail Creek State Park; an adult White-throated Sparrow
at the Mill Creek Park in Washington City, and (for all you procrastinators) the
Red-headed Woodpecker is lingering at the Wilson Pecan Orchard.
Rick Fridell (3 Feb 2005) - The Red-headed Woodpecker is still remaining at the Wilson Pecan Orchard, in Hurricane (west of Sand Hollow State Park). Also the Greater white-fronted and Ross's Goose are remaining at the Spring's Park pond in the Washington Fields, St. George.
Jan 2005
Jack Binch (1 Feb 2005) - I went to the St. George Winter Bird Festival and had a very enjoyable trip...Notable was the Red-headed Woodpecker and #300, an Inca Dove.
Marilyn Davis (31 Jan 2005) - Yesterday, Sunday, Keith and I took a trip to Half-way Wash to check it out ...We drove into the parking area, parked, looked down towards the path just north of Sunset Blvd and saw about 20 or more White-crowns busily eating seeds that someone had dropped. Right in the middle of them were two Golden-crowned Sparrows. What a surprise...
Rick Fridell - Yesterday (1/17), Kristen and I did a loop around St. George to check on the status of wintering birds. Here are some of the highlights: Common Moorhen remaining at the pond in St. George. Drake Wood Duck and a Great Egret at the Sunbrook Golf Course middle pond Male Vermilion Flycatcher in the fields north of Riverside Drive Greater White-fronted Goose, Ross's Goose, and another Great Egret at the Spring's Estate Pond.
Rick Fridell - Yesterday (1/15) Larry Tripp, Marshall Topham, Cameron and Melody Rognan and I visited some eastern Washington County locations...At the Wilson Pecan Orchard we spent some time photographing the lingering Red-headed Woodpecker...At Sand Hollow State Park we observed a Greater Scaup, female Red-breasted Merganser, and the pair of White-winged Scoters (remaining since mid-October, usually below the main dam)...Larry and I went on to Virgin and observed the adult male Williamson's Sapsucker at the old Town Hall. This is only the second wintering Williamson's Sapsucker record that I'm aware of for Washington County....
Bill Hunter (14 Jan 2005) - Dixie birders here. We been out in them thar soggy fields a day or two ago and seen some rally neat birds...Here's a few of the bestest:...Greater Scaup - Straton Pond, other wise called Grandpa's Fishing Hole...Black Scoter - 7 or 8 at Sand Hollow...Common Ground Dove - Wilson's Peach and Pecan Orchard, etc. (No "Woody")... Long-eared Owl - 15+ We waz havin' to duck their chuckin' and chivin'. Never seen so many in my life...
Steve Hedges (5 Jan 2005) - VJ and I observed the Red-headed Woodpecker this morning at 11:30. It has moved to the north end of the orchard west of Wilson's orchard...
Joel and Kathy Beyer (3 Jan 2005) - We went down to Washington County this weekend for the three rarities. Saturday afternoon we got nice looks at the Red-headed Woodpecker and the Common Ground-Dove at Wilson's Orchard. Sunday morning we (along with several others) looked for the Rufous-backed Robin in Springdale for about 3 hours, with no luck....Other birds of note were a pair of Horned Grebes (winter plumage) on Quail Creek Reservoir.
Steve Summers - Yesterday (Jan. 1) I tried for all three Washington Co. recent rarities... and totally struck out....While looking for the woodpecker at the Wilson Farm I did find a Harris's Sparrow with a flock of White-crowneds in the back corner of the orchard...