I was birding in the Portal area of Arizona this spring from April 21-24 and compared to the year before when we were there, the migration was behind. Things were just starting to ‘heat up” on our last day there, and it seems to me at least, this slower migration has also been noted here in southern Idaho, as well. Interesting.
Re: Curiosity Question
Sounds about like SE ID along the Snake. Was curious if others were witnessing same. By this time last yr, had House Wrens already building nests. Guess we’ll see what next couple of weeks brings.
Brian
Re: Curiosity Question
That’s good news, esp re: the 3-toed WPs. Will keep my eye out next time up that way. Thanks for the info!
Re: Curiosity Question
I’ve actually felt like arrivals in Island Park were a little
early this year, especially Western Tanagers which got here five
or six days ago. I haven’t checked my records to confirm that
they’re early but that’s what it seems like. We’ve got pretty much
all the breeding species now including Olive-sided Flycatcher and
Pine Siskin. There are also quite a few Three-toed Woodpeckers
drumming in the area, more than I typically hear close to the
house. Interesting how different it is locally.
Cliff
Re: Curiosity Question
Spring migration has been slow in southwest Idaho and some birds seem to be passing us by. Western tanagers have been scarce in passing through the Treasure Valley. Several songbird species have shown up later than expected as well.
Curiosity Question
So, it seems to me, compared to last few springs, that I’m having a “slower” arrival of birds. Mainly: BC Hummingbirds, House Wrens, Bullock’s Orioles & W Tanagers, as I’ve seen one House Wren, 1 Bullock’s & zero W Tanager. And, both by observation & drainage at my nectar feeder, appears I have only 3 BC Hummingbirds.
There are good numbers of Yellow Warblers & BH Grosbeaks, but they’re the only ones close to what I would consider a good spring arrival of numbers. Just wondering how other observers out there are faring with spring migration numbers?
Brian Carrigan
Blackfoot
Great-tailed Grackle at Black’s Creek Preserve.
Hi birders,
This morning Amy & I found 2 individuals. Both were males. Long blackbird with glossy plumage showing iridescent blue about the head, thick-based bill, eye like Brewer’s. Long, curved tail. One was moving along the far shore on the east side, so not too far away. Then we saw another on the near shore; we had to make sure it wasn’t the other bird that had moved. This bird was a better view, it was making its way westwards along the near shore. Both birds flew short distances now and again.
I see no previous sightings of this species at Blacks.
Happy birding,
Amy Bechtel & John Shortis.
Re: Been a Few Years!
My first W. Tanager showed up along the Boise Greenbelt today, and my first Bullock’s Oriole was yesterday. Yellow Warblers are out in force along the Boise River, as are Bewick’s Wrens. My first House Wren was about a week ago. It’s been years since I saw
a Canyon Wren along the river. Have yet to see or hear a BH Grosbeak. (Maybe tomorrow?)
a Canyon Wren along the river. Have yet to see or hear a BH Grosbeak. (Maybe tomorrow?)
At home, I’ve had BC Hummers off and on for the last week. First one arrived on Monday. Still not a regular visitor.
Tom McCabe, Boise
Been a Few Years!
Had a rare Spring visitor this morning. Another cool, wet front arriving today, so went out to the woodpile to bring up some more firewood. And, scared up a Canyon Wren pushing through. Interestingly, the only place, here, I’ve ever seen them over the years is at our woodpile. And, probably no more than 3 or 4 times in the past.
More Black-headed Grosbeaks are arriving, as well as, Yellow Warblers. Did have an adult male Lazuli Bunting at the feeder a few days ago. Still waiting for Bullock’s Oriole & W Tanager.
Brian Carrigan
Blackfoot
Re: Quick Update
…PUT out… Spell check, uggh!