|
2026-01 Rusty
Blackbird
|
Evaluator |
Date |
Vote |
Comment |
|
Jeff C. |
6 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
The description and images confirm the species. |
|
Max M. |
14 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
Photos definitive, good documentation |
|
Keeli M. |
20 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
Rusty edging on feathers, face pattern, and
description of observed gray rump support ID as RUBL. |
|
Bryant
O. |
5 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
Nice photos of a female |
|
Kris P. |
23 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
The photos show lots of the definitive features
that are distinctive from a Brewer's or female Red-wing, and Matt added
that he saw the bird's gray rump. |
|
Dennis S. |
9 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
Good detailed report, with several observers,
and good photos. |
|
Mark S. |
14 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
Photos are definitive. |
|
David
W. |
5 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
Photos clearly show a female-type Rusty
blackbird in winter plumage. The amount of contrast in the face patterning
and the buffy/rusty edging to wing feathers is outside the range for the
similar immature Brewer's blackbirds. Also, the description of the gray
rump is very compelling. |
|
Kevin
W. |
16 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
Combination of light-colored eye, contrasty
supercilium, rusty wing-feathers, and gray rump indicate Rusty Blackbird. |
2026-02
Vermilion Flycatcher
|
Evaluator |
Date |
Vote |
Comment |
|
Jeff C. |
12 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
Descriptions and photos confirm Vermilion
Flycatcher |
|
Max M. |
14 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
Nice photos and documentation |
|
Keeli M. |
20 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
Would have preferred at least a mention of how
SAPH was eliminated, but photos show a female VEFL. |
|
Bryant
O. |
14 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
Not sure why VEFL show up at Utah Lake every
year but they have been lately. This looks like a HY male? Good Photos. |
|
Kris P. |
23 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
Strong documentation, particularly 2026-02. |
|
Dennis S. |
9 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
Submitted photos and prior hotline photos leave
no doubt. |
|
Mark S. |
14 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
Photos show adult female Vermilion Flycatcher. |
|
David
W. |
8 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
Honestly, he had me at "Vermie." The rest
was just gravy. |
|
Kevin
W. |
23 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
Photo shows a cute little Vermilion Flycatcher. |
2026-03
Bronzed Cowbird
|
Evaluator |
Date |
Vote |
Comment |
|
Jeff C. |
27 Jan 2026 |
To 2nd |
I've seen only a few Bronzed Cowbirds in
Arizona. They are strikingly different from other blackbirds when I've
seen them in the field, but the image, and its cropped versions, that we
have with this record obscure some important traits. The description and
What appears to be a thick-based bill are intriguing to me, but the head
size and shape don't seem to eliminate other blackbird species from what I
can discern from the images. The crown appears slightly elongated, but
that may be impacted by the bird stretching the head forward and downward.
I don't think that I'm seeing a ruff on the neck. I'm not sure that I'm
seeing the iris of the bird in the images. It almost appears like a lid or
nictitating membrane may be covering it, so I'm not able to confirm the
red that was described in the written record. Tail shape is not
discernable in the image. I'm not sure what to make of one blue spot near
a shoulder. The record indicates that blue could be seen on the wing of
the bird even in the shade, but I'm not really seeing that in the image we
have been presented. I'm not confident that I'm seeing a Bronzed Cowbird,
but I'm also hesitant to say no to the ID outright. This is likely the
first time I'm voting to send a record to the second round for further
discussion, but I'm currently leaning away from the Bronzed Cowbird ID. |
|
2nd round: |
22 Feb
2026 |
No, ID |
The observer indicated in the Field Marks and
Identifying Characteristics section of the record that he felt that the
image he discovered he had captured after returning from the field had
enough "field IDs" to solidify the the ID and rule out others species.
Consequently, I've decided to base my vote on that original image and its
cropped versions since a drawing can be considered more subjective,
especially if drawn any length of time after the field encounter. I'm not
sure how to explain what appears to be a rather thick-based bill. My first
thought was whether it might be a deformity since I don't see any other
traits in the image to confirm Bronzed Cowbird. For example, I don't see a
red iris, which would be unique to the species among blackbirds. The eye
appears to be closed in the original image. Two subsequent images shared
via email during the second round by the observer, which may or may not be
the actual bird according to the observer, show what looks like yellow
irises to my eye. The head shape in those images look good for Brewer's
Blackbird. I don't see obvious evidence of a ruff in any of the images
we've been provided. The blue spot near the shoulder in the upscaled and
edited versions of the original image could be the result of an
oversaturation during the upscaling and editing process since it is very
minimal in the original image. None of images shared in the first or
second round show blue flight feathers that were reportedly visible "even
on the side not facing the sun." Perhaps that is an exposure problem with
the images. I'm left with too many questions to confirm the species. |
|
Max M. |
14 Jan 2026 |
To 2nd |
I have some concerns with this record. The
single photo is oversaturated and very poor quality. While the write-up is
decent, they tend to ID birds from photos after the fact and I am
concerned that is the case with this record, despite noting field marks
"in the field". With the oversaturation there does appear to be a blue
iridescence on the back, the eye appears brownish? or reddish but doesn't
seem quite right for Bronzed Cowbird. Are we seeing the eye or the
nictitating membrane? It also seems odd that the head looks like an
umbrellabird, maybe distortion from the photo? I also find it concerning
that the record was submitted 10 days after the observation. Is it
possibly a Bronzed Cowbird? Possibly but I am not confident we can rule
out other species. |
|
2nd round: |
26 Feb
2026 |
No, ID |
I think JC's assessment is a good detailed
evaluation of this record and I agree with BO, there isn't enough here to
prove Bronzed Cowbird beyond a reasonable doubt. |
|
Keeli M. |
14 Feb 2026 |
Acc |
Picture are a little tough but they do show bird
does not have a light eye, and they show what could potentially be a blue
flash in the wing. Based on description of observed characteristics,
accepting this record. |
|
2nd round: |
8 Mar
2026 |
No, ID |
Given the inconsistencies in the record and the
concerns and comments that were shared, I also agree there's too many
questions to accept/support ID. |
|
Bryant
O. |
14 Jan 2026 |
No, ID |
Interesting Blackbird, but inconclusive looks.
I'm not seeing any red in the eye, in fact it looks like the eyelid is
closed in the photo. Odd he didn't even consider a Red-winged Blackbird,
which was not eliminated and has all the field marks described. Its not
uncommon for the red to not show. BRCO has not been proven here. |
|
2nd round: |
25 Feb
2026 |
No, ID |
I still feel the brief looks obtained in the
field were not enough to confirm such a rarity, photos themself are
inconclusive. BRCO has not been proven here beyond a reasonable doubt. |
|
Kris P. |
26 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
I think the observer made the most of his brief
and limited view. The field sketch is very helpful given how strong the
impression of the blue iridescence was, but the photo didn't capture it
well. The bird's bill and forehead shape is very convincing. I'm not
troubled by the eye not appearing red. A bright red eye is that of a
breeding male, but a non-breeding male might have a more subdued
orange-brown iris and the low light of the photo might not have picked
that up. I wish he had included a comment about observing the eye color,
but nevertheless, this is a well-documented record. |
|
2nd round: |
11 Mar
2026 |
No, ID |
I appreciate the insight offered by everyone and
the extensive evaluation of this record. I'm also changing my vote due to
significant doubts that this bird was a Bronzed Cowbird. |
|
Dennis S. |
21 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
Very detailed written report. The description of
unique characteristics and comparisons with other blackbirds was thorough
and narrowed the decision to accept. The drawing was unique. The photos
didn't add much! |
|
2nd round: |
26 Feb
2026 |
No, ID |
After reconsidering the comments from committee
members from the first round I agree there are too many questions about
this record for acceptance. |
|
Mark S. |
14 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
Detailed description seems to rule out
similar species. I wish the eye were visible in the photo, but the bird
appears to be blinking. However, everything in the photo is consistent
with Bronzed Cowbird. |
|
2nd round: |
3 Mar
2026 |
No, ID |
Given the significant questions raised regarding
this record, I'll change my vote to err on the side of caution. |
|
David
W. |
14 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
Compelling and very thorough writeup.
Discussions of structure and color all point to this species. |
|
2nd round: |
26 Feb
2026 |
No, ID |
Thanks to those on the Committee who shared
their doubts to prompt us to take a second, third, fourth, fifth... look
at this bird.
The most compelling thing for me about this bird was the photo that
appeared to show a very thick bill. That's hard to argue with, especially
when combined with the written description of other field marks. But when
I re-look at the photos closely, it's really difficult to make out what
the shape of that bill in actuality is. The lower mandible almost looks
too thick compared to the maxilla, with the division between the two going
up at a very steep angle that, if extrapolated, would seem to cut the
upper mandible off far shorter than it ought to be. Maybe that's just an
illusion, but then maybe so is the thick bill. [Am I seeing that wrong??]
The reason I am beginning to second-guess my first and second impression
that the bird has a thick bill is that the bill in the photo is the same
color as the dark splotches behind the bird (which appear to be
"illusions" caused by grass stems outlining shadows beyond. These dark
ovals/blotches can be seen above and below the bill in the photo, almost
like echoes. I now wonder whether the upper mandible "thickness" is just a
superimposed dark blotch in the background rather than actual bill mass. I
cannot, with the blurry photo being what it is, rule out being duped by an
illusion, a trick of the light. This doubt is only bolstered by the photos
subsequently sent to us by the observer (of birds which may or may not
include this bird, but which are blackbirds in a similar light) where
bills are blurred/doubled by movement because of long exposures due to the
low light conditions, making them look deceptively thick.
As for the adorable drawing, I think it better supports a puffin than a
cowbird ID. I say that with envy and admiration knowing full well it is
better than anything I'd likely manage myself.
So, yeah, I no longer feel confident enough in the ID to vote in the
affirmative on this species. It MAY have been a Bronzed cowbird, but "may"
is not good enough to accept such a rarity in this part of the world.
[By the way, knowing the person reporting this 2026-03 record is an avid
eBird contributor, I tried to find his bird on an eBird checklist to see
if I could glean more information. I found no checklists in the area
searching eBird for "Bronzed cowbird" or "blackbird sp." for January 3,
2026. Because this Bronzed cowbird was reported as associating with
Brewer's blackbird, I also searched under that species. However, the only
checklist by our observer I could find in the area on that date was for
1:13-2:20 pm. So that checklist, which contained no mention of cowbirds or
"blackbird sp.," ended 20 minutes before the time listed (2:40 pm) on
Record 2026-03 for the observation of the Bronzed cowbird we are
evaluating. All this is to say that the 1:13 pm eBird checklist I found
sheds no light on the bird we are evaluating, one way or another. It is
unfortunate the observer did not submit an eBird checklist covering the
time reported in Record 2026-03 (not even an "incidental" checklist), but
so be it.] |
|
Kevin
W. |
23 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
I wish the photo was better, but it does show
the distinct large bill. The description in the submitted report also
indicates it had a red iris, something I would hope since the photo
doesn't show it (maybe his eye was closed?). The glossy blue wings also
are good for Brown-headed. |
|
2nd round: |
27 Feb
2026 |
No, ID |
After considering other
reviewers' analysis of this bird and re-looking at the photos, I think
that there may not be enough to conclusively identify this as a Bronzed
Cowbird. |
2026-04
Tennessee Warbler
|
Evaluator |
Date |
Vote |
Comment |
|
Jeff C. |
15 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
The description lines up well with a first-year
Tennessee Warbler with a bit more white on the underside. Similar species
are sufficiently eliminated. |
|
Max M. |
29 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
Nice write-up eliminating similar species. |
|
Keeli M. |
14 Feb 2026 |
Acc |
Observer's description hits the key points of
identification that rule out other species. |
|
Bryant
O. |
16 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
Description hits all the field marks for a TEWA.
I'm curious of the age listed as immature male? Fall immatures and females
are probably not IDable unless captured. |
|
Kris P. |
26 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
Lots of good ID points here, especially the bill
impression, face pattern, white under-tail coverts, and significant
differences from the Orange-crowned present. KC's long observation of the
bird through his camera lens in the attempt to capture a photo puts him in
a good position to suggest this might be the same bird depicted later in
2025-65. |
|
Dennis S. |
21 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
Even with the late entry the written report is
convincing enough to accept the record. The 4 hour effort spent in the
area trying to get a photo but only observing the bird multiple times was
impressive! |
|
Mark S. |
16 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
Excellent description and detailed analysis
establishes the i.d. - all important features were seen and noted. |
|
David
W. |
15 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
Not quite sure what some of the eye arc
description might have been about, so I will not address it here. But
other than my confusion about that, the description sounds like a
Tennessee warbler to me. In addition, the observer is a good and
experienced birder who found many of the rare birds credibly reported in
Utah in 2025. |
|
Kevin
W. |
23 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
I feel that the description is good for a
Tennessee Warbler; especially the white vent. |
2026-05
Mexican Duck
|
Evaluator |
Date |
Vote |
Comment |
|
Jeff C. |
16 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
This appears to be the same individual that was
confirmed by the UBRC in 2022. That duck was observed in January as well
in essentially the same location (Record 2022-01). If not the same bird,
it is essentially identical in its key traits. I am voting to accept this
record based on the criteria that have been applied to previous MEDU
records by The Committee. I'll share some additional thoughts in case we
go to a second round. BirdsoftheWorld.org indicates that MEDUs are about
10% smaller than Mallards. This one is noticeably larger based on
checklist images showing the bird next to wild Mallards. I made the same
assessment when I observed our current duck in the field. As the volunteer
eBird reviewer for Utah County, I saw numerous images of this individual
before this record was submitted. The bent tail feathers and what appeared
to be a darkish rump caught my attention, but when I explored the species
in eBird, I noticed that eBird's featured MEDU photo by Ryan O'Donne
ll (a former UBRC member) was an exact match to our bird, right down to a
couple of slightly bent tail feathers and what can look like a darkish
rump under certain lighting conditions. There appears to be some tolerance
for slight tail curl/bend for MEDU. Here's the link to the image from the
Macaulay Library:
https://macaulaylibrary.org/asset/46186291
Photo C of this record lines up well with the eBird's featured image of
MEDU.
In proper lighting, the pale fringed rump feathers are visible (See Photos
C and D). Photo D shows the broader blue band and thinner white outer
bands expected for a MEDU speculum. |
|
Max M. |
29 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
Well documented bird |
|
Keeli M. |
16 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
This bird looks good for a MEDU. No white or
curl in tail, clean demarcation between paler head and reddish brown body. |
|
Bryant
O. |
16 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
Looks mostly pure, rump a little dark but that
could be some lighting issues. Tail brown without prominent curl. Probably
has a Mallard somewhere in its ancestry but so do most ducks |
|
Kris P. |
26 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
I'm not sure what happened to the Species
elimination narrative, but the hybrid elimination in the Field Marks
section is strong and the photos are outstanding. |
|
Dennis S. |
15 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
Most birders of Utah and Salt Lake County have
seen this bird and there's no question concerning ID. |
|
Mark S. |
16 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
Excellent documentation. The photos show classic
Mexican Duck features, with none showing signs of a hybrid - a rare,
phenotypically "pure" individual for Utah. |
|
David
W. |
21 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
Excellent writeup and photos. This is about as
Mexican a duck as we ever get here in Utah. The breast color (and lack of
contrast with the flanks), tail color, speculum color, bill color, head
contrast, lack of green in head, and lack of significant tail curl all
point to Mexican duck. Nice record. |
|
Kevin
W. |
23 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
I think this bird shows enough traits to
be considered a Mexican Duck: Yellow bill, distinct line of color-change
from head to neck, no real curly tail feathers, dark undertail coverts
with no white. |
2026-06
Gray Hawk
|
Evaluator |
Date |
Vote |
Comment |
|
Jeff C. |
27 Jan 2026 |
No, ID |
Blocky head, dark cap, red eyes, gray cheeks,
rufous underside markings, tubular shape, and long gray and dark banded
tail with a thick white tip point to adult Cooper's Hawk. Adult Gray Hawk
would show a more rounded gray head, dark eyes, fine gray barring on the
underside, and black and white tail bands. |
|
Max M. |
29 Jan 2026 |
No, ID |
Photos show a Cooper's Hawk |
|
Keeli M. |
1 Mar 2026 |
No, ID |
Photos show COHA with very pale chest. |
|
Bryant
O. |
23 Jan 2026 |
No, ID |
Photos show an adult Cooper's Hawk |
|
Kris P. |
26 Jan 2026 |
No, ID |
It looks like this submitter had a very
beautiful Cooper's Hawk visit. |
|
Dennis S. |
3 Feb 2026 |
No, ID |
What an interesting bird. It does have some Gray
Hawk characters (gray back) but lacks several others (black and white
banded tail). It has accipiter characters and looks more like a Cooper's
than anything else. But it isn't quite right. Are there variations which
have such a light buffy breast instead of a normal rusty barred breast? |
|
Mark S. |
29 Jan 2026 |
No, ID |
Photos show a Cooper's Hawk. |
|
David
W. |
23 Jan 2026 |
No, ID |
Accipiter. |
|
Kevin
W. |
23 Jan 2026 |
No, ID |
Looks like a Cooper's Hawk. |
2026-07
Brown-capped Rosy-Finch
|
Evaluator |
Date |
Vote |
Comment |
|
Jeff C. |
2 Feb 2026 |
Acc |
Description is sufficient and images include the
species. |
|
Max M. |
29 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
Nice photos and flock size in an area where
these birds are likely annual |
|
Keeli M. |
1 Mar 2026 |
Acc |
Photos and write-up support ID for several
individuals. Incidentally Sibley states that BCRF and BLRF do hybridize,
although I would have to do some research to find supporting evidence of
it occurring. |
|
Bryant
O. |
29 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
Photos support ID traits listed in the record. |
|
Kris P. |
25 Feb 2026 |
Acc |
The fact that adults were present, and probably
adult males that showed intense pink while still sporting the
black-centered gray-edged crown feathers, is a strong validation for this
ID. The analysis eliminating young Gray-crowns is thorough. It's
interesting that photo AG shows a red color-marked bird likely banded ~3.5
miles away at Josh Fife's banding site, since red is the color he uses. |
|
Dennis S. |
2 Feb 2026 |
Acc |
Nice sets on convincing photos. Good crew of
observers. |
|
Mark S. |
29 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
Call this record McKay's revenge?
Excessively detailed write-up, and ample definitive photos of multiple
individuals that are clearly BCRF. One thing I find curious, given the
level of detail and the mention of GCRF numbers in the flock, that there's
no mention of BLRF present is spite of several individuals visible in the
photos. |
|
David
W. |
29 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
Photos show that the flock contained a large
number of Brown-capped Rosy-Finches, along with some other Rosy-Finches.
The excruciatingly detailed (nearly feather-by-feather) written
description bolsters my conviction that this excellent record shows that
this species occurs in our state in fairly robust numbers during the
winter months.
I note, with wry amusement, that I hope this record does not "burn up in
flames and [isn't] subsequently erased from Ebird data" as described in
the Additional Comments section. |
|
Kevin
W. |
30 Jan 2026 |
Acc |
The description is very detailed and I feel
describes the definitive characteristics well. I also think the photos are
definitive, showing dark centers of gray feathers on the edges of the
crown, and browner cheek and breast feathers than other rosy-finches.
|
2026-08
Red-shouldered Hawk
|
Evaluator |
Date |
Vote |
Comment |
|
Jeff C. |
3 Feb 2026 |
Acc |
No question about the ID. Description and images
make this an easy one to confirm. |
|
Max M. |
26 Feb 2026 |
Acc |
Well documented Bird |
|
Keeli M. |
1 Mar 2026 |
Acc |
Photos show plumage pattern and body shape
supporting ID. |
|
Bryant
O. |
3 Feb 2026 |
Acc |
Glad the banders weighed in |
|
Kris P. |
25 Feb 2026 |
Acc |
|
|
Dennis S. |
3 Feb 2026 |
Acc |
Good report and excellant supportive photos.
EasyID. |
|
Mark S. |
3 Mar 2026 |
Acc |
Excellent documentation supported by numerous
diagnostic photos. |
|
David
W. |
3 Feb 2026 |
Acc |
Another nice find by one of our own. |
|
Kevin
W. |
27 Feb 2026 |
Acc |
Photos show distinct characters of a
Red-shouldered Hawk, including the yellow cere, reddish shoulders, and
streaked bib. |
2026-09 Vega
Gull
|
Evaluator |
Date |
Vote |
Comment |
|
Jeff C. |
7 Mar 2026 |
Acc |
I've spent more time on this record than every
other record I've reviewed since becoming a voting member of the Committee
a little over a year ago. In reading the record, I noted that the author
of my latest and greatest guide for gulls had already weighed in on the
ID. How could I argue with the guy who wrote the book? Well, I wanted to
do my due diligence, so I tried. In the end, I found myself agreeing that
traits to confirm Vega Gull are well-documented in both word and images
with this record. |
|
2nd round: |
13 Apr 2026 |
Acc |
I've puzzled and puzzled over this record
because I don't want to shirk my duties as a voting member of The
Committee. I would have considered it a Herring Gull if I had seen it in
the field. Kudos to Bryant for being so discerning when there is so much
variation among individuals in the Herring Gull complex. Without genetic
information, we are left with judging this individual phenotypically. Amar
Ayyash states that it "looks" like a Vega Gull and then supports that with
a list of field marks upon which that statement is based. I'm finding it
difficult to argue with the guy who wrote the book that I'm using to help
me review this record. |
|
Max M. |
26 Feb 2026 |
Acc |
I remember Bryant's excitement over this bird in
the field and we have talked about it over the years. Good documentation
and write-up, and also good to have an outside expert opinions from the
author of the Gull Guide and others more familiar with Vega Gull. |
|
2nd round: |
20 Apr 2026 |
Acc |
I appreciate DW's hesitancy with this one, but
researching/looking at those other species the 1st cycles look very
different to me. Also - as Bryant eluded to the likelihood of vagrancy
from those other species seem extremely unlikely. I still think there is
adequate documentation here to eliminate other species. |
|
Keeli M. |
10 Mar 2026 |
Acc |
Vega/Herring complex gull ID is difficult at
best. This seems like a plausible ID based on photos of defining features
and details described in write-up. Given the supporting agreement of gull
experts, I believe there's enough evidence to support this ID. |
|
2nd round: |
30 Mar 2026 |
Acc |
No change in vote given the excellent discussion
and expert support of the ID. |
|
Bryant
O. |
11 Feb 2026 |
Acc |
|
|
2nd round: |
16 Apr 2026 |
Acc |
Sorry for the delayed replied, my field season
just got started and I've been very busy. But to address David's concerns.
Let start with discussing the "Herring Gull Complex": What the evidence
shows, including DNA evidence and morphology, is that the gulls that were
formerly considered 'Herring Gulls", namely the European Herring Gull,
American Herring Gull and Vega Gull, are not each others closest relatives
and in-fact they are not closely related to each other, and there is
minimal to no gene flow between them, which is why they all have been
elevated to their own species. Basically it was just an example of
convergent evolution that they came to resemble each other. Regarding
hybrids between them, they are essentially unknown, and unexpected since
none of these 3 species overlap in nesting range with each other. Yes,
Large Larus gulls are prone to hybridization, but only when species
overlap on their nesting range and form mixed nesting colonies, such as
with GWGU and WEGU. Species that do not overlap, do not hybridize, such as
WEGU X AHGU etc. In this case oceans separate the these species nesting
regions.
Additionally there is no known hybrid combination that would produce
something that looks like the gull in question. I feel I've already
provided enough detail to reasonably eliminate American Herring Gull, so
lets consider European: Although European Herring Gulls can have the white
rump, they typically also have a solid dark tail feathers, and tend to
have a scaly pattern, with solid dark gray feathers with pale edging,
rather than the pale feathers with dark anchor marks of Vega. Also their
bills tend to stay black much later into the season than either VEGU or
AHGU, which usually turn pink based fairly early. Of course European
Herring Gulls are largely confined to the Atlantic coast in North America,
where they are casual at best, with very few records west of the east
coast, and none inland. Vega Gulls are regular in good numbers in the
Bering Sea and Alaska, and some wander down the west coast every winter,
with a few inland records. Its clear that Utah is inclined to get west
coast gulls fairly regularly and much more so than east coast gulls, so
range alone would seem to eliminate European, but plumage also does so in
this case. Mongolian Gull, which is the closest relative to Vega, is
unknown even in Alaska and the Bering sea and is not known to wander
outside Asia, unlike Vega, since they have an inland rather than coastal
distribution. Based on the few photos we have of them, they do appear much
paler in 1st cycle with a whitish head and torso in 1st cycle, but here is
where the Zebra vs Horse hoof beats may also be put to use. Note, there is
at least one other Vega record in Utah before this, see eBird for
documentation of that bird. |
|
Kris P. |
17 Mar 2026 |
Acc |
This vote is probably a formality given that the
experts have already validated Bryant's perceptive ID. Bryant's noticing
the tail pattern, perhaps the most significant difference between Vega and
American Herring, was key and might have escaped non-lariphiles. The tail
seems especially significant due to overlap of other more subtle features
between the two species that are also highly variable, at least with the
American Herring. My concurrence is based on book and internet study
having never seen a Vega Gull. The profound similarities between Vega and
the American Herring make me untrusting of photo libraries (e.g. Macaulay)
without expert confirmation and therefore, multiple field guides with
idealized illustrations of the (former) Siberian sub-species of the
Herring Gull seem more reliable sources in my paradigm of gull ID. |
|
2nd round: |
20 Apr 2026 |
Acc |
The voting on this record is well-supported by
what I think is deeply thorough study by everyone especially considering
our general lack of familiarity with the species and the difficult nature
of gulls. David's questions and concerns are well-justified, but I think
are also well-answered even if the outside experts who agreed on the Vega
Gull ID didn't speak with resounding conviction. I'm comfortable accepting
the record again. |
|
Dennis S. |
10 Mar 2026 |
Acc |
Have seen a number on the far out Aleutian
Islands (Shemya Island). Looks to be a copy! |
|
2nd round: |
22 Mar 2026 |
Acc |
No change just let the experts rule! |
|
Mark S. |
3 Mar 2026 |
Acc |
Excellent documentation and photos; consultation
with other authorities strengthens the record. |
|
2nd round: |
10 Apr 2026 |
Acc |
David raises some very good points, and perhaps caution would be the best
course of action. But I can't find anything in this record that
contradicts Vega Gull, and the outside experts couldn't, either, so I'm
not really left with any justification for rejecting this other than
"gulls are difficult and variable."
In the absence of contradictory evidence, I'll continue to accept the
record. |
|
David
W. |
17 Mar 2026 |
No, ID |
Apologies for taking so long to vote on this
gull. Truth is, I was reluctant to face it because I know this is a very
complex ID.
First, let me applaud the observer for even considering a non-American
Herring complex gull. My hat is off to you, sir.
My reasons for voting NO in the first round:
As the observer noted, the Herring gull complex is extremely, um, complex.
The various "species" and subspecies (henceforth, taxa) grade into one
another over the entire northern hemisphere, but especially in Eurasia. I
appreciate that, were this gull seen in NE Asia, one would not hesitate to
call this a Vega gull. But how about Central Asia or the Black Sea? This
is not the question before us. Truth is, this gull was NOT seen in NE
Asia, nor even in Alaska adjacent to that region, but instead was seen
here in a desert state half a world away -- Utah. Since the proposition
before us is that the gull is of a species normally found in Asia, I think
it is fair to expect a more vigorous defense under the Similar Species
section, one dealing with all the possible gulls within that troublesome
Herring gull complex. It is only vaguely more implausible that this gull
originated from a population in Central Asia or Europe rather than from NE
Asia.
Furthermore, the issue is complicated by the fact that gene flow within
the entire Larus genus is, to say the least, fluid. Larus gulls show an
almost preternatural proclivity to mate with (and indeed successfully
hybridize with) other species within that genus. The resulting offspring
present an almost limitless spectrum of phenotypes between the various
extremes within the genus.
So, I am not claiming this is NOT a Vega gull (oh heavens no!), but I
would like to see a more thorough discussion why this isn't, say, a
Caspian gull or the various ssp. thereof ("Mongolian," "Steppe"). Or why
not a hybrid of a Vega gull with one of the other members of that Herring
gull complex? So many taxa to choose from as a virile young (or senile
old) gull!
Extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence. Or, as Dr. Ted once
said, "When you hear hoofbeats behind you, don't expect to see a zebra."
(Ted was not advising people in Africa, of course.)
I am assuming I will yet again have the privilege of voting on this
mysterious equine, I mean gull, since the two observers who saw this beast
are voting members of our Committee and are therefore expected to vote in
the affirmative. Seeing as both are extremely knowledgeable and
skilled birders, I look forward to seeing them present their case in the
second round. |
|
2nd round: |
31 Mar 2026 |
No, ID |
We seem to be relying on outside experts. That's
fine. Here is my analysis of what they said:
One expert said it looked like a Vega gull. I agree. But did he say it was
definitely a Vega gull?
The next expert said, that WERE THIS GULL SEEN IN ASIA, they would not
hesitate to call this a Vega gull. That's a very qualified statement and
one that seems to rely on probability rather than unquestionable field
marks. He specifically seemed to dodge committing to a solid YES ("For me,
it suffices to say that is what a Vega looks like."). What if this gull
were seen on the shores of the Caspian Sea? How about Israel in the
winter? Then the probabilities shift, do they not? Utah? Certainly a very
good candidate. I agree Vega gull is the best guess.
I'd be thrilled to accept another species onto our state list, but I would
like to do so with more certainty. Bryant, can you help me see the light?
Can you eliminate the possibility of other Eurasian Larus gulls or hybrids
thereof? I would love to see it. |
|
Kevin
W. |
27 Feb 2026 |
Acc |
I love the challenge of figuring out
gulls, especially juveniles- but I'll admit that I'm just not that good
at it, and feel a bit over my head judging this record. To pick this
gull out as something different in a group of gulls would be tricky. I
am inclined to accept this record based on the traits described by the
consulted expert in the record, but everything that I can find in other
online sources seems to match (the whitish rump, pale inner primary
panel, white undertail coverts, light streaking on the chest, etc.).
|
2026-10
Mexican Duck
|
Evaluator |
Date |
Vote |
Comment |
|
Jeff C. |
4 Mar 2026 |
Acc |
The description supports the ID and sufficiently
eliminates other possibilities based on the phenotypic standards we have
used to review recent Mexican Duck records. While the photos are not
ideal, they appear to confirm what has been described. |
|
Max M. |
26 Feb 2026 |
Acc |
Excellent write-up and description eliminating
"hybrid". Although poor and distant photos support the ID. |
|
Keeli M. |
30 Mar 2026 |
Acc |
Description and photos support ID and rule out
hybrid characteristics. |
|
Bryant
O. |
26 Feb 2026 |
Acc |
|
|
Dennis S. |
22 Mar 2026 |
Acc |
Photos convince. |
|
Mark S. |
3 Mar 2026 |
Acc |
Good documentation. |
|
David
W. |
27 Feb 2026 |
Acc |
Saved by the excellent writeup. |
|
Kevin
W. |
27 Feb 2026 |
Acc |
It's hard to tell many distinguishing
characteristics of this duck from the photos, although it does show a
yellow bill and dark undertail. The description in the record, though,
provides enough detail to accept and rule out mallards and hybrids (to the
point described). |
2026-11
Mexican Duck
|
Evaluator |
Date |
Vote |
Comment |
|
Jeff C. |
4 Mar 2026 |
Acc |
The written record and photos meet the
phenotypic standards we have used to review recent records for Mexican
Duck. |
|
Max M. |
26 Mar 2026 |
Acc |
Seems good for Utah MEDU and supporting write-up |
|
Keeli M. |
8 Mar 2026 |
Acc |
Photos support ID and show lack of curl in the
tail, narrow white bar on the wing, greenish yellow bill, dark eye stripe,
darker crown. The only thing that gives me a little pause is the amount of
white in the tail, which could be a sign of hybridization or could be
bleached feathers. |
|
Bryant
O. |
28 Feb 2026 |
Acc |
Can't see the rump in the photos provided on the
record, but the tail, crown and breast show no obvious sign of hybrid.
This observer sent me addition photos of this bird before submitting the
record to get my opinion on the birds "purity". I can provide those photos
to anyone interested. Everything checks out for a Mexican. |
|
Dennis S. |
22 Mar 2026 |
Acc |
Photos convince. |
|
Mark S. |
3 Mar 2026 |
Acc |
Nothing to point to a hybrid in this one. |
|
David
W. |
27 Feb 2026 |
Acc |
The tail feather edging is a bit pale, but
overall this seems like a fairly "clean" individual for our neck of the
woods. I'm pleased to see the observer checked whether this bird was the
same as the one near the Provo River Delta. Saves us a lot of
hand-wringing. Good data. If this and Bryant's records are accepted, that
would make three Mexican duck drakes here along the Wasatch Front at the
same time. |
|
Kevin
W. |
3 Apr 2026 |
Acc |
Description and photos show what seems to pass
as a Mexican Duck: Dark undertail coverts, no curl in tail feathers,
distinct line between head and breast colors, cinnamon-tinted breast,
yellow bill, dark crown. |
2026-12
Eastern Bluebird
|
Evaluator |
Date |
Vote |
Comment |
|
Jeff C. |
4 Mar 2026 |
Acc |
The description of orange throat, white belly,
and all-blue topside point to Eastern Bluebird. The images show described
field marks and confirm the Eastern Bluebird ID. |
|
Max M. |
26 Mar 2026 |
Acc |
Was wondering when we would get one of these
again, hopefully we will see a record for the other report further north
at some point |
|
Keeli M. |
8 Mar 2026 |
Acc |
Photos are supportive of ID and show orange
throat and sides of neck as well as the white belly characteristic of a
male EABL. |
|
Bryant
O. |
28 Feb 2026 |
Acc |
|
|
Dennis S. |
22 Mar 2026 |
Acc |
Lots of convincing photos and excellent
comparison with WEBU. |
|
Mark S. |
10 Apr 2026 |
Acc |
Excellent photos. |
|
David
W. |
4 Mar 2026 |
Acc |
Excellent photos and writeup indicate Eastern
bluebirds. |
|
Kevin
W. |
3 Apr 2026 |
Acc |
Photos show Bluebird with red throat. |
2026-13
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker
|
Evaluator |
Date |
Vote |
Comment |
|
Jeff C. |
9 Mar 2026 |
Acc |
The written record lacks some important details,
but the images show an immature Yellow-bellied Sapsucker. |
|
Max M. |
26 Mar 2026 |
Acc |
Unless my poor eyes are fooling me and I am
missing something minor, looks good for YBSA |
|
Keeli M. |
30 Mar 2026 |
Acc |
Complete white throat with black border and lack
of red nape support ID as a female YBSA. |
|
Bryant
O. |
8 Mar 2026 |
Acc |
Looks good for a female. Maybe same YBSA seen at
Payson? |
|
Dennis S. |
22 Mar 2026 |
Acc |
Lots of photos from 6 different observers over a
2 week span. This makes things a little complicated. Not sure they are all
of same bird. Most show red nape lacking, and prominent barring across the
back. The complete black border around throat area is a little fuzzy. Will
vote for acceptance for now, but want to see if other committee members
have any similar concerns. |
|
Mark S. |
10 Apr 2026 |
Acc |
That much juvenile plumage in February indicates
YBSA. |
|
David
W. |
2 Apr 2026 |
Acc |
Very late in the year for any pure Red-naped. No
signs of significant hybridization evident in the excellent photos. |
|
Kevin
W. |
3 Apr 2026 |
Acc |
Photos show sapsucker with juvenile plumage,
messy back bars, lack of red in nape, and fully outlined throat patch. |
|