In case anyone is looking for adventure – Tempe (IBO biologist) just texted me about a “yellow-bellied” kingbird she just saw on her drive up to Lucky Peak. She did not notice white outer tail feathers as it flew. Given that most Westerns are long gone by late August/early September and that Tropical Kingbirds show up along the W coast in mid to late fall almost every year, I figured it was worth getting the word out in case anyone’s out & about.
The bird was seen just above the last steep stretch as the road flattens out along the ridge towards the peak – likely 3-400 yards south of the outhouse. Directions to Lucky Peak here: ibo.boisestate.edu/visit/#directions. She saw it in flight then perched on cherries along road and then it flushed downhill as she drove by.
Who knows if it was a late Western or something else. Deadlines/calls will keep me in front of my computer today … good luck to anyone who tries!
Jay