Verification of Unusual
Sight Record
For Utah
Rec. # 2011-51
| Common name: |
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker |
| Scientific name: | Sphyrapicus varius |
| Date: | 10/22/11 |
| Time: | morning |
| Length of time observed: | 30' |
| Number: | 1 |
| Age: | HY |
| Sex: | female |
| Location: | Rio Mesa Center |
| County: | Grand |
| Latilong: | N38 48', W109 12' |
| Elevation: | 4200' |
| Distance to bird: | in hand |
| Optical equipment: | |
| Weather: | sunny |
| Light Conditions: | |
| Description: Size of bird: | |
| (Description:) Basic Shape: | |
| (Description:) Overall Pattern: | |
| (Description:) Bill Type: | |
|
(Description:)
Field Marks and Identifying Characteristics: |
(see photos) |
| Song or call & method of delivery: | |
| Behavior: | |
| Habitat: | tamarisk-dominated riparian |
| Similar
species and
how were they eliminated: |
This bird was distinguished from RNSA by the following: - primarily in juvenal plumage in late October - no red on nape or throat (but some on crown and forehead) - "messy" back pattern |
| Previous
experience with this & similar species: |
fairly extensive, including in-hand experience with both species |
| References consulted: | Pyle (1997), Sibley |
| Description from: | From memory |
| Observer: | Kenneth Burton |
| Observer's address: | 816 Union St., Arcata CA 95521 |
| Observer's e-mail address: | shrikethree@gmail.com |
| Other observers who independently identified this bird: |
Marta Lomas Vega |
| Date prepared: | 11/4/11 |
| Additional material: | Photos |
| Additional_Comments: |