The PeregrineThree Rivers Birding Club Newsletter

Vol. 17, No. 6, November/December 2018 http://www.3rbc.org

See The Peregrine in beautiful color at 3rbc.org

LIVING STATUE – 3RBC member Steve Gosser photographed this American Avocet at Crooked Creek Lake, Armstrong County, in July 2018.

Enjoy Birds’ Beauty on Dec. 12Come to 3RBC’s December meeting prepared to OOH! and AAH! at

our annual “Slide Slam” displaying members’ artistry behind the lens. Please note that this program will be on Wednesday, December

12 − the second Wednesday of the month − not on our usually scheduled first Wednesday.

The meeting will be held at the Phipps Garden Center, 1059 Shady Avenue in Shadyside. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for socializing, a business meeting begins at 7:30, and the program starts at 8:00.

Here are a few rules to make sure that all participants will have an equal opportunity to dazzle us:

• Photographers must pre-register by emailing Dave Brooke at davbrooke@gmail.com by Wednesday, November 28. If you prefer, you can call him at 724-487-3586. Dave is the new Program Director for the club.

•  The first 10 photographers to respond will be able to present their shows. Because of time limitations, only 10 can be accepted.

• Each photographer will be allowed up to 6 minutes of time. If fewer than 10 photographers pre-register, the presenters’ time will be adjusted upward.

• Photos MUST be in a Microsoft PowerPoint format on a thumb drive. No images may be stored or downloaded from the Cloud.

Pittsburgh Christmas Count Will Be Held on December 29By Brian Shema, Pittsburgh CBC Compiler

The Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania hosts the Pittsburgh Christmas Bird Count (CBC) annually. This year it will be held on Saturday, December 29.

Scientists rely on the CBC data to measure changes in the environment and in bird populations – information that aids our understanding of what can be done to conserve bird species.

While scientists rely on the data, the CBC’s success relies on people like you! Participation is free, and experience is not necessary. New birdwatchers can be teamed up with experienced birders. Counting birds at feeders is also important, so you don’t even have to leave home. Just contact your area leader below. .

Please also join us for the count dinner on Sunday, December 30, at 6:00 PM at Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve in Fox Chapel. Participants at the potluck dinner are asked to bring a covered dish, soup, salad, or dessert to feed at least 10 people. After dinner, the count results will be tallied.

To participate, please contact the area leader nearest you: Fox Chapel – Brian Shema, 412-963-6100; bshema@aswp.orgFranklin Park – Stacey Widenhofer, 412-741-7536; stacey.fhnc@gmail.comHampton Twp. – Brady Porter, 412-337-7397;

porterb@duq.eduIndiana – Steve Gosser, 412-855-5220; smgosser@verizon.netKilbuck & Ohio – Paul Brown, 412-963-1979;pmbrown1944@gmail.comNorth Park – Meg Scanlon, 724-935-2170; latodami@yahoo.comOakmont & Harmar – David Yeany II, 814-221-4361;dyeany@paconserve.orgO’Hara – Steve Thomas, 412-782-4696;thomassj22@verizon.netPenn Hills & Verona – Mike Smith, 412-526-8360;skeetor72@yahoo.comFrick & Highland Parks – Mark VanderVen, 425-273-1786;nevrednav@gmail.comPittsburgh (rest of city) – Mike Fialkovich, 412-731-3581;mpfial@verizon.netRoss & McCandless – Bob Machesney, 412-366-7869;remach@aol.comShaler – Joyce Hoffmann, 412-487-0921;ibird@juno.com

See page 3 for information on other counts near Pittsburgh.

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The PeregrineThree Rivers Birding Club Newsletter

Published bimonthly:January, March, May, July, September, November

Send articles and/or illustrations to:Paul Hess, Editor

phess@salsgiver.com1412 Hawthorne St., Natrona Heights, PA 15065

Send ideas or items for the website to:Tom Moeller, Webmaster

thosjmoel@gmail.com

Send questions and suggestions to:Bob VanNewkirk, President

van126@comcast.net126 Timberlane Dr., Pittsburgh, PA 15229-1059

Suggest or volunteer to lead outings to:Steve Thomas, Outings Director

thomassj22@verizon.net309 Center Ave., Aspinwall, PA 15215

Report bird sightings to:Mike Fialkovich, Bird Reports Editor

mpfial@verizon.net805 Beulah Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15235

Membership: FREE Student-Youth, $15 Individual,$20 Family, $50 Contributing, $100 Sustaining

Send check to Three Rivers Birding Clubc/o Thomas J. Moeller, Treasurer

6357 Ebdy St., Pittsburgh, PA 15217-3035thosjmoel@gmail.com

Copyright © Three Rivers Birding Club. All rights reserved.(Photographers and illustrators retain their copyrights.)

continued on page 3

President’s Message

A Fascination With RaptorsBy Bob VanNewkirk

Long before I knew what a “spark bird” was, I was drawn to watching raptors in flight, especially Red-tailed Hawks. They were different from other birds in the way they flew and hunted for food. I don’t remember who told me as a boy that they were red-tails. Looking for one as raptors passed overhead was how I learned to separate them from other hawks. But I do remember vividly that my three younger brothers and I often spied them flying over our grandparents’ Ross Township farm in all seasons. Sometimes the hawks’ savage screaming cry instantly drew our attention skyward.

I wondered what it must be like to fly with wings outstretched, staring down at the ground or into the distance, and trying to imagine their destinations. My only experience with flight as a kid was building model airplanes, and flying balsa-wood gliders and homemade kites on one of the farm’s fallow weedy fields. 

Over the years I took more notice of the types of birds of prey and became more aware of their diversity and uniqueness. I discovered them in my neighborhood’s wooded lots, patrolling weedy and agricultural fields in rural landscapes, and flying over county and state parks’ creeks and lakes where I fished. I heard an announcement in August 1999 on Scott Shalaway’s popular Birds and Nature radio program on WPIT-730 AM about the Fourth Annual Hawkfest that would really make my spirits soar.

The Hawkfest was sponsored by the Tamarack Wildlife Rehabilitation Center at Edinboro University. Tamarack rehabilitators displayed an American Kestrel, a Great Horned Owl, and a Red-tailed Hawk to demonstrate and discuss their efforts to rescue injured birds of prey. I was thrilled to see these birds up-close, but was saddened to learn about hidden dangers raptors face, such as being poisoned, colliding with cars, illegally shot, and getting caught in fishing line. A Moraine State Park volunteer introduced Anna, a Barn Owl, to talk about the park’s breeding program to repopulate Western Pennsylvania with these owls.

Scott Shalaway was the guest speaker at the Hawkfest. He showed wonderful slides of bird nests and fledglings and incorporated a discussion of hummingbirds and their interesting characteristics. Afterward, I introduced myself to Scott. It was a real pleasure to finally meet him since I had become a regular listener to his radio program.

As a follow-up to Hawkfest, Scott organized an October bus trip to Hawk Mountain Sanctuary. The weather forecast called for overcast skies, gusty winds, and temperatures in the 50s. With the spotters’ assistance in raptor identifications, our day’s checklist tallied a dozen red-tails, two Northern Harriers, and two Sharp-shinned Hawks. Our best sighting was our last for the day, just as we were about to leave the lookout. A magnificent Golden Eagle with its wings widespread, soared right overhead. What joy energized the group as we excitedly talked about this sighting while heading back to the bus.

Prior to the formation of the Three Rivers Birding Club in 2001, I looked forward to bird outings posted in Chuck Tague’s Nature Observer News. I quickly learned that there were excellent places to find a variety of bird species in nearby state and county parks, state game lands, and wild areas containing marshes, woodlands, and reclaimed strip mines within an easy one- to three-hour drive from Pittsburgh. I was also grateful that there were excellent leaders who were willing to lead outings to help others find birds and assist with their identification. The leaders’ guidance and tutelage created confidence in me to chase birds on my own. 

Since raptors are apex predators in almost every environment, I hoped to find and identify them, and especially to watch them in action. I also had a strong desire to travel to other states and countries to find new raptor species. With each trip, mainly with tours organized by the Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania, my life list grew to include other gliders like eagles, hawks, kites, and harriers, and the speedy, agile, and powerful falcons. Since I am not a photographer, I rely on my checklists and field notes for each place visited to help remind me of my encounters with them. It’s like an accumulation of wonder rekindled upon review. I also rely on my book shelf full of field guides that provide excellent illustrations, identification descriptions, and other key information. 

My best association with raptors over the last 11 years has been as a volunteer naturalist for the Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania. I assisted with their raptors used for education – a Red-shouldered Hawk and an Eastern Screech-Owl − to provide for their care and to feature them with “Birds of Prey” programs. These birds have injuries that prevent them from surviving on their own, but they can maintain a good quality of life and have a permanent home. In exchange for food and shelter, they are used for education. Seeing a live bird of prey up close and personal is a rare and exciting opportunity for people of all ages, but especially for elementary aged children and their parents and teachers. I love to watch their faces and hear their reactions as I introduce each bird and walk with it down the auditorium’s middle aisle.

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HAWK WATCH HIGHLIGHT – Bob Van Newkirk recalls his excitement at seeing his first Golden Eagle at Hawk Mountain.This one photographed by Steve Gosser migrating over the Allegheny Front in November 2016 proves why.

President’s Messagecontinued from page 2

The program’s main objectives are to explain how diurnal and nocturnal birds of prey are different from other bird species and to demonstrate how they incorporate their acute hearing and keen vision into their hunting styles for prey. These adaptations all play a crucial role in their survival. A variety of props such as model eagle, hawk, and owl skulls and talons, display mounts of owls, and feathered wings of a Great Horned Owl and a Red-tailed Hawk are used to dramatize a variety of key physical features.

Bird watching has changed my life in many ways I could never have imagined. I can thank the raptors for that. They got me looking skyward to develop a sense of wonder about them. Birding is not just a hobby, sport, or pastime. It’s my temperament. Birds leave imprints on my mind and heart, and whenever I have the opportunity to watch them, I am at peace.

***Bob expands his raptor focus on page 4 with a

list of his top 10 species and why he ranks them as so special.

CBCs Near Pittsburghand Elsewhere in PA

A handful of other CBCs include portions of Allegheny County. To find the dates and how to participate, contact the following compilers:

• South Hills − Nancy Page, 412-221-4795• Buffalo Creek Valley (Butler County) – George Reese   724-353-9649• Buffalo Creek (Washington County) – Larry Helgerman;              bobolink1989@gmail.com • Imperial – Bob Mulvihill, 412-522-5729; Robert.mulvihill@aviary.org • South Butler (Allegheny & Butler County) – Chris Kubiak, 412-963-6100; ckubiak@aswp.orgSome of those count areas produce interesting species that are

not found on the Pittsburgh CBC.Meanwhile, if you really love Christmas counting, check the

dates and contacts for every CBC in Pennsylvania in the December issue of the Pennsylvania Society for Ornithology’s newsletter, The PSO Pileated, at pabirds.org.

Many of those are in counties neighboring Allegheny County including Armstrong, Beaver, and Westmoreland. All of them will enthusiastically appreciate your help.

A special attraction for winter bird counting this December could include birds that may invade our area from the north, such as Red-breasted Nuthatches, Pine Siskins, Common Redpolls, Purple Finches, and Evening Grosbeaks.

Take a look at the exciting “Winter Finch Report” on 3RBC’s website. It is meant for southern Ontario birders, but these invasions often extend farther south if seed and cone crops are plentiful here.

Outings to Come

We’ll Close Out the FallWith Two More Events

By Steve Thomas, Outings Director

Saturday, November 3 – Yellow Creek State Park: This will be a joint outing of 3RBC and the Todd Bird Club. Meet Margaret Higbee (724-354-3493) at the park office at 8:00 AM. The office is located on Route 259 just off Route 422 east of Indiana, PA. The park’s many habitats include a large lake that attracts a wide variety of waterbirds and sometimes exciting rarities. Allow an hour and a half to drive from Pittsburgh.

Sunday, November 11− Moraine State Park: Join Michael David (michaeltdavid@gmail.com) for the year’s last visit to this popular park, which includes Lake Arthur. Meet at 8:30 AM at the Day Use Area (South Shore) in the first parking lot on the right. Directions: From I-79, take route 422 east toward Butler and exit at the Moraine State Park exit. When you reach the end of the ramp turn left and travel straight into the park until you see the first major parking area on your right. Water fowl and late fall migrants make this outing a highlight of the season. Allow one hour driving from Pittsburgh.

***Check 3RBC’s website and Facebook for last-minute

announcements of new outings or cancellations.

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ORNATE HAWK-EAGLE – A highlight for Bob VanNewkirk on a recent trip to Belize, this unusual raptor has a thin, pointed crest. It was spotted on a birding tour sponsored by the Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania. (photograph by Brian Shema)

My Top 10 Favorite RaptorsBy Bob VanNewkirk

Like most birders, I enjoy making lists of all sorts related to my sightings. After writing my President’s Message about my fascination for raptors, I began to review and write down all of the raptor species that I have seen in the U.S. and abroad. From this list I picked out my top 10 favorites based on their appearance, where I first saw them, their hunting style, and their population status. It’s purely a subjective list. You could do the same with any species. This group just happens to be more memorable.

1--Bald Eagle: I saw my first adult eagle in 1998 while bird watching in State Game Land 95. It was especially a thrill for me to see our national bird. I always return to my favorite and reliable location to find them at Pymatuning State Park. Finding eagles for other birders on outings always provides an exciting moment of discovery.

2--Rough-legged Hawk: This beautifully marked buteo breeds in the Arctic and Subarctic regions of North America. Some over-winter in Pennsylvania. I search for them in the agricultural fields in New Wilmington and Pymatuning. Often I have watched them hover while hunting.

3--Swallow-tailed Kite: Easily identifiable due to its deeply forked black tail and well-defined black and white body. It’s the most elegant flier I have ever seen. They seem to hang motionless in the air while hardly moving their wings. My life bird was spotted at Sandy Ridge Reservation in Ohio. I feel it’s a special occasion any time I find one or more on a trip. I never want to take 

my eyes away while one is in view.4--Northern Goshawk: As a new birder, I didn’t know

how unusual this sighting had been. My one and only sighting occurred while birding with a small group in Sewickley Heights Park in October 2003. The bird called as it flew overhead and was immediately identified by Chris Noll, the leader. The large wings and white and dark barring underneath is what I noticed. It was a brief sighting, but I will always remember the moment.

5--Harris’s Hawk: This large dark hawk with reddish brown shoulder patches is strikingly beautiful. I saw it at the Keno Springs Golf Course in Nogales, Arizona. It was just par for the course, meaning this species was regularly found there. Brian Shema, who was guiding this ASWP trip, discovered and identified the raptor. Three Rivers Birding Club members got to see a live Harris’s Hawk up close during Jeff Finch’s program about the sport of falconry in April 2009.

6--Bateleur: This is a mid-sized eagle named after a French word meaning “tight rope walker” due to its aerial acrobatics while courting. I observed it in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area in Tanzania. It’s a colorful bird with a bright red face and legs, long white wings with gray shoulders, and a short tail. It spends up to eight hours daily in the air while hunting for food such as mice, birds, snakes, antelope, and road kill.

7--Secretarybird: This endemic large African bird has an eagle-shaped body and prefers hunting in open grasslands and savannahs with short grasses. It’s a terrestrial bird with long wings and legs standing up to four feet tall. It is named for its crest of long, dark, quill-like feathers on the back of its head. Quill pens from male secretaries were used in the 1800s. This species prefers walking to flying as it searches for its varied diet of snakes, amphibians, small mammals, and small game birds. They roost at night in acacia trees.

8--Crane Hawk: This unique raptor was discovered while birding at the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary in Belize on another ASWP trip led by Brian Shema in February 2018. This hawk is gray overall with a black and white banded tail. It is usually found in tropical lowlands near water. What makes it unique is that its long orange legs are double-jointed, enabling it to reach into cavities to extract snakes, nesting birds, or other food. They often perch in trees or on fences to scan for prey.

9--Ornate Hawk-Eagle: While on the same trip in Belize, we discovered this tropical beauty as it perched atop a large snag near the Pook’s Hill Lodge. This medium-sized raptor is well-named. It has a pointed black crest that is raised when it is excited. Adults have rufous sides and heavily barred underparts, and a banded tail. It is a powerful raptor that can take mammals much larger than its own average weight of three pounds, such as monkeys, agoutis, squirrels and similar animals. Birds make up its main prey.

10--Orange-breasted Falcon: This falcon has a black mask and hood, and a broad band of orange-rufous on its upper breast. It is found only locally throughout its once expansive range. Today most observations come from well-known nesting locations. Belize currently hosts the largest nesting population in Central America. Jonathan Urbina, our phenomenal bird guide, has been spearheading the Orange Breasted Falcon restoration project for the Peregrine Fund. He has been overseeing the release of these birds to ensure their survival through careful observation, record keeping, and constant evaluations. Many countries have similar suitable habitat, but it is a mystery why these birds have disappeared. Jonathan made arrangements for us to visit the Maya Mountains in the Cayo District area where he knew the falcons were living. He eventually located one, and we enjoyed multiple admiring scope-looks while the bird cooperatively stayed still.

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continued on page 6

NOT QUITE ALIKE – The Hawaiian Coot (above) and the American Coot (right) are similar except for the sizes of the white forehead “shield.” The two are closely related but considered to be separate species. The Hawaiian Coot is classified as Endangered. Tom Moeller photographed the Hawaiian species on the Big Island of Hawaii and the American species at Duck Hollow in Allegheny County.

By Tom MoellerA trip to the Hawaiian Islands is the dream of many people. In

2017 the American Birding Association included some bird species of Hawaii as acceptable in ABA and eBird life lists. These species are restricted to the islands and are called “endemics.”

Other colorful birds have been imported from around the world. Several other endemic birds in Hawaii are considered only subspecies of birds found on the mainland of North America and, thus, are not “listable” as separate species.

In this article I’ll discuss some of these species and subspecies. Hawaiian names of the birds appear in italics complete with the okina marks, which represent glottal stops as pronounced in the Hawaiian language.

The Hawaiian Duck (Koloa maoli) looks very similar to a female Mallard, except that the male has a darker head and an olive-green bill. It is considered by the ABA and eBird as a separate species. Both sexes have the greenish blue speculum and dark (not white) tail. This species is threatened by the introduction of Mallards to the islands. Interbreeding with the native Koloa results in too much hybridization. Efforts have been ongoing to control feral Mallards. Pure Koloas can be found on the island of Kauai, and they are classified as endangered. 

The Hawaiian Coot (‘Alae ke‘oke‘o) is similar to the American Coot except that its frontal white shield extends from its beak up to the top of its head. It is classified by the ABA and eBird as a different species from our mainland bird. It is found in fresh or brackish water pools and marshes, and builds a floating nest of water plants, in which it lays four to ten eggs. As with many Hawaiian endemics, it is an endangered species.

A form of Black-necked Stilt is found in Hawaii, but at present, it is classified by the ABA and eBird as only a subspecies of North America’s Black-necked Stilt. The endemic Hawaiian Stilt (Ae‘o) has more black around its neck and more black on

its face than mainland stilts. It prefers marshy areas; thus, it was helped by early Hawaiians who flooded fields to grow taro. Like Killdeer, the Ae‘o will feign injury to lead predators away from its nest.

The Hawaiian Moorhen (‘Alae ‘ula) looks exactly like our mainland Common Gallinule and is classified by the ABA and eBird as only a subspecies of the Common Gallinule. This shy bird often goes unseen, hiding in shoreline vegetation. This gallinule can only be found on Oahu and Kauai, and is extirpated from Maui and the Big Island. Attempts to reintroduce it on those latter two islands have not been successful, although isolated sightings have been made. Its decline is due to loss of wetland habitat.

Another bird on the islands that is exactly the same as on the mainland is the Black-crowned Night-Heron (‘Auku‘u). It, too, is classified by the ABA and eBird as only a subspecies of our mainland (and worldwide) bird, although it has bred on the islands for hundreds of years, having arrived naturally. The ‘Auku‘u can be found on all the major Hawaiian Islands, and it is not endangered. This is the only native heron in Hawaii.

An island seabird similar to the Magnificent Frigatebird of our mainland coastlines is the Great Frigatebird (‘Iwa) but it is a different species. Its Hawaiian name, ‘iwa, means thief, and just like the Magnificent Frigatebird, the Great Frigatebird steals food from the bills of boobies, shearwaters, and terns after harassing them. Also, the plumage of these two species of frigatebirds is similar: the male is all black with a red pouch under his throat that can be inflated during courtship; the female has a large white area on her breast. The bird’s 7-foot wingspan allows it to soar up to 500 feet over the ocean, and the angular shape of the wings lets it outmaneuver other birds.

Other familiar birds in Hawaii have been imported. Rock Doves (pigeons), House Sparrows, Northern Cardinals, Barn Owls, Wild Turkeys, Northern Mockingbirds, Western Meadowlarks,

Observations

Familiar (Somewhat) Birds in Hawaii

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continued on page 7

DISAPPEARING SPECIES – The Hawaiian Duck is Endangered, and Tom Moeller’s photo at left shows why. These are Mallard and Hawaiian Duck hybrids. The native ducks interbreed widely with

non-native feral Mallards, and “pure” Hawaiian Ducks are now limited to the island of Kauai. Tom photographed the hybrids in Honolulu and the Mallards in Nine Mile Run in Allegheny County

hybrid Muscovy ducks, Cattle Egrets, and House Finches can be found in the islands. The House Finch was introduced to Hawaii from California in 1869. House Finch males on Oahu differ in color from “our” House Finches in that they are orange where ours are red. This coloring is due to their diet, which often includes overripe papaya. Sometimes it is called the “Papayabird” in Hawaii.

Many migrating shorebirds regularly come to Hawaii in the winter, such as Pacific Golden-Plover (Kolea), Ruddy Turnstone (‘Akekeke), Wandering Tattler (‘Ulili), Sanderling (Hunakai), Bristle-thighed Curlew (Kioea), among others. Laughing Gulls and other gulls also winter there. Visiting ducks include wigeons, teals, both scaups, Northern Pintails, Ring-necked Ducks, and Northern Shovelers. If I had wings, I’d fly to Hawaii in winter too!

When you do get to Hawaii, there are many adventures for you, including birding. Do the tourist things: attend a luau, go to

Pearl Harbor, visit ‘Iolani Palace, climb Diamondhead, swim at Waikiki, but take time to see the exotic endemic and imported birds as well as the somewhat familiar ones. Aloha!

References:

Jim Denny. The Birds of Kaua‘i. Honolulu: University of Hawai‘i Press, 1999.

Hawaii Audubon Society. Hawaii’s Birds. Waipahu, HI: Island Heritage Publishing, 2005.

H. Douglas Pratt. A Pocket Guide to Hawai‘i’s Birds. Honolulu: Mutual Publishing, 2004.

***Don’t miss Tom’s photo gallery of beautiful

Hawaiian birds on our 3RBC website.

Observationscontinued from page 5

Sewickley Heights Park − August 24: Due to everyone’s busy schedule, the joint fall migrant outing with Fern Hollow Nature Center had to be pushed forward to late summer.

As usual, the parking area was busy with birds and birdsong. A bright Baltimore Oriole, a Scarlet Tanager, and various woodpeckers kept us entertained while we awaited late-comers. A juvenile Red-bellied Woodpecker had only a tiny spot of orange on the back of its head. The day would be full of odd-looking juvenile birds that sported some but not all of the typical field marks.

With six birders, we took to the trails. At the butterfly field we found scores of American Goldfinches and American Robins. Two Purple Martins flew overhead, and a few of us got a quick glimpse of a small raptor that unfortunately could not be relocated.

Late summer wildflowers were a treat, including Cardinal Flower, Great Blue Lobelia and one of my favorites, White Baneberry. The baneberry’s common name, “Doll’s Eyes,” refers to its white oval-shaped fruit with a black dot “pupil” hung on bright red stems.

We were surprised, and we surprised a family of four raccoons.

They were climbing to the ground on a downed tree and froze in place watching us as we watched birds. Satisfied that we were not a threat, mom led the three almost full-grown siblings into the woods.

The “best” bird of the day, a Yellow-bellied Flycatcher, perched long enough for everyone to get a great look. It was a lifer for most of the group! We counted only two warblers: a Yellow Warbler and an Ovenbird. We found a total of 30 species. –by leader Sheree Daugherty

Sewickley Heights Park − September 6: Ten birders gathered on a humid, hot morning hoping to discover fall migrants. Waiting for late-comers to arrive, we noticed quite a bit of bird activity on both sides of the parking lot. A pair of Eastern Bluebirds, one adult and one fledgling, perched low on an open branch near their nest box. We watched a Blue-gray Gnatcatcher pursue insects in its usual frantic hunting style. Other birds such as an Eastern Phoebe, an American Goldfinch, a Mourning Dove, an Eastern Towhee, and a Blue Jay moved about the trees at a slower pace.

We walked the Butterfly Trail leading to one of the newly 

Outings Revisited

We Treasured a Fine FallFilled with Many Migrants

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UNUSUAL VISITOR – This immature Brown Pelican was found on September 16, 2018, along the Beaver River at New Brighton. It was the first Beaver County record and the third for western Pennsylvania away from Lake Erie. Geoff Malosh photographed it on September 17, and it was last reported the next day. Geoff said it was likely the same bird seen briefly in Pittsburgh on August 5 and later that week in Erie.

Outings Revisitedcontinued from page 6

continued on page 8

created Habitat Reclamation Fields. Non-native plants and trees have been removed here to create better habitat for birds over time. The vegetation that was preserved and the field’s openness enabled us to discover a variety of birds: a Yellow-bellied Flycatcher, three Red-eyed Vireos, a Gray Catbird, a Red-bellied Woodpecker, a Ruby-throated Hummingbird, and an American Redstart. Several wild cherry trees full of berries provided a feast for a dozen or more Cedar Waxwings. Many American Goldfinches were scattered over the butterfly meadow and actively feeding on seeds of the tall Cup-plants. April Claus, the Director of Parks, Conservation, and Education for Sewickley Heights Borough, showed us another plant in the field that relies on hummingbirds to pollinate it – the Cardinal Flower. It was surprising to find this bright red flower growing on the woodland edge of the field. Normally this plant is associated with moist-to-wet soils.

Near the butterfly meadow was the second Habitat Reclamation Field. As we slowly crossed the field, a flying bird caught our attention. We watched it land on an open branch about 20 feet off the ground. It was a male Indigo Bunting. A few seconds later, it was joined by its newly fledged youngster. They lingered briefly before flying off. Although it wasn’t a bird, we also stopped to look at a praying mantis resting on a large blade of grass alongside our path. Also to our liking, we encountered warblers flitting back and forth in a group of thin tall trees. Getting occasional good looks at these hyperactive birds revealed three warbler species: Blackburnian, American Redstart, and two Magnolias.

We left the sun-drenched fields to bird in the shadowy woodland trails. As we entered Chestnut Path, we heard a Scarlet Tanager’s chik-brrr call. Other vocalizations were made by a Hooded Warbler, a Pileated Woodpecker, and a Veery. Usually when the bird walk becomes more like just a hike in the woods, there are other things to grab the group’s attention.

For example, we came across a thin tree branch that seemed coated with a white fungus. April told us we were looking at Beech Blight Aphids, known also as Boogie Woogie Aphids. These small insects’ bodies are covered with a white, waxy filament giving them a “woolly” appearance. Large numbers of these aphids coat American Beech branches, twigs, or leaves as if they are covered with snow. The aphids feed on the sap but seldom do much harm to the tree. When April shook the branch, the aphids swayed from side to side as a defensive maneuver.

It wasn’t until we reached the Muddy Run trailhead that warbler action picked up again. Moving through the understory and close to the path were a Canada Warbler, two Black-and-White Warblers, and a Magnolia Warbler.

We headed back toward the parking lot via Black Cherry Run. There was no further bird action until we got closer to the pond. On the edge of the pond stood an enormous white oak tree. April told us that an arborist estimated it to be over 200 years old. There was some bird movement at various heights on this tree. A Yellow-billed Cuckoo was discovered by one birder flying into the tree’s canopy. A Veery was chasing after food at mid-story. Some birds flew away that were not positively identified. 

Perhaps the most surprising sighting of the day occurred when one birder pointed to a Red-breasted Nuthatch clinging upside down on a tree trunk right next to where we were standing. The nuthatch called softly several times and walked slowly around the trunk, paused to look around, and flew off. 

Since the sky began to darken and rumbles of thunder were heard in the distance, we ended the walk. The rain held off long 

enough for us to review our sightings and count the species total of 37. −by leader Bob VanNewkirk

Presque Isle State Park − September 8: A dozen people gathered for Bob VanNewkirk’s outing. We had driven north in a steady downpour, but the weather cleared just before the outskirts of Erie. Most of us kept our rain jackets on for warmth; it was breezy with a definite nip in the air and it felt like fall! Was it only yesterday that the temperatures were climbing into the 90’s?

An Osprey floated overhead as Bob VanNewkirk welcomed us with the news that the early arrivals had been seeing large numbers of Double-crested Cormorants on the wing. Also seen were Mallards, a Greater Scaup, a couple of Caspian Terns, a Great Blue Heron, and an American Coot. He told us that there was a foot race of some kind going on, and we might have to make adjustments as we travelled around the peninsula.

Bob then led us across the road and over to the lake side where some official-looking people were standing around, but they assured us that we could walk out to the beach without fear of getting in the way of runners. This annual event is billed as “The Barber Beast on the Bay” and is an extreme obstacle course race of 10 miles along the beaches. We later saw some of the runners staggering over the sand and not looking as if they were having any fun. Perhaps they should consider taking up birding!

The wind was quieter on this side, and in the distance, we could see Ring-billed Gulls resting on the sand. A shorebird suddenly flew onto the breakers. As it bobbed into view on the rocks, we saw that it was a Spotted Sandpiper. As we crossed back to the parking lot, we noticed a Green Heron tucked in the wooded edge next to the water.

Our next stop was Leo’s Landing and the highlight here was a Great Egret hunting in the marsh. Crews have been busy removing invasive species over the past few years, and this area looked

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much better without the choking weeds. A few Wood Ducks and Mallards were poking here and there in the shallow water, and two Belted Kingfishers landed on a distant tree. As we hiked to the end of the road, a large flock of Canada Geese flew over. A group of nine Pied-billed Grebes swam in the bay.

At the Ranger Station, finding only an American Goldfinch and some House Sparrows at the feeders. Cedar Waxwings and Warbling Vireos called nearby, but were harder to spot.

Moving on to the Waterworks, a quick walk to the beach revealed many gulls clustered on the breakers, with Herring Gulls vastly outnumbering the Ring-billed. We turned back to the woods and started down the Old Gas Well Trail. It wasn’t long before we noticed movement in the trees above us. Three species of woodpeckers were quickly found — Red-bellied, Downy, and Hairy. People called out Blue-winged Warbler, Black-and-white Warbler, American Redstart, Magnolia Warbler, Black-throated Green Warbler, and Wilson’s Warbler. A mystery flycatcher kept quiet and was quickly gone. Nearby, a White-breasted Nuthatch and an Eastern Towhee were more vocal.

After lunch under the trees, Bob led the way to Fry’s Landing where we found Sarah Sargent having a quiet banding day. The Audubon Society formerly sponsored the bird banding on Presque Isle, and when they discontinued that project, the Erie Bird Observatory was founded in 2016 to keep up that mission and others like it. We walked into the woods a short way, but turned back after finding only a Gray Catbird and a Northern Flicker. A couple of people spotted a Great Black-backed Gull, but most of us missed it.

The Graveyard Pond Trail was also uncharacteristically quiet, but we enjoyed the walk along the canal. Some American Robins and Gray Catbirds talked in the bushes. An Osprey flew over, and Bob, in the lead, flushed a Swainson’s Thrush off the path. We paused to look over the water, and noticed a Spotted Sandpiper walking along the opposite shore.

We had better luck on Pine Tree Trail, where scolding Black-capped Chickadees, our first of the day, flitted from tree to tree, with a small flock of warblers following them. The warblers were moving fast, and the backlighting didn’t help! We identified only a Blackburnian and a Black-throated Green. An Eastern Wood-Pewee cooperated by sounding off, and a Northern Flicker called.

We ended the day with 45 species, including seven warbler species. −by participant Debbie Kalbfleisch

Harrison Hills Park −September 11: The remnants of Tropical Storm Gordon forced postponement of our Sunday outing to Tuesday. After three days of near constant rain, this morning was rain-free except for a late slight drizzle. Ten birders were anxious to find migrants. Most birds were cooperative, but the overcast skies made identificationy difficult.    

Our first major flock of warblers was at the edge of the parking lot, where we found Ovenbird, Black-and-white, American Redstart, Magnolia, Blackburnian, and Pine. Among them were chickadees, Tufted Titmice, White-breasted Nuthatch, and Red-eyed Vireo. There were no waterfowl or shorebirds at the pond, but in the vicinity we found Common Yellowthroat, Song Sparrow, Eastern Towhee, Scarlet Tanager, House Finch, Eastern Phoebe, Gray Catbird, Cedar Waxwing, and Chimney Swift.

Continuing on the trail loop, we reentered the forest and followed another flock of warblers, adding Black-throated Green. There was always lots of woodpecker activity, including Red-bellied, Downy, Hairy, Pileated, and Northern Flicker. Swainson’s

Thrush and Wood Thrush were found farther along the trail, along with a number of American Robins. Along the road back to the cars, we added Baltimore Oriole, Yellow-billed Cuckoo, and Chipping Sparrow. New warblers included Tennessee, Black-throated Blue, and Chestnut-sided.

We drove to the playground and walked the cliff trail, but found little activity there, so we retraced our steps and drove to the Environmental Learning Center.

There, along the road, we added Mourning Doves, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, and Eastern Wood-Pewee. Along this road, there was a flock of Cedar Waxwings and a group of at least five Northern Flickers. On the edge of the goldenrod field, we got great looks at Field Sparrow and Common Yellowthroat. Returning to our cars, we added Northern Mockingbird and House Wren. The total for the day was a respectable 48 species. We spotted 11 warbler species, but because of the poor light conditions, most of the birds had to remain unidentified. –by leader Jim Valimont

Glade Run Lake –September 16: We had a nice walk

this morning, although it was a struggle to find warblers. The 13 participants included two who had never been on an organized bird walk and three others who often visit the lake but hadn’t been on a 3RBC outing before.

The morning started off with a bang when the first five of us saw a Great Egret fly down the lake in the brilliant morning sun while we were standing in the parking lot. It was a great way to start the day. A Pied-billed Grebe and a trio of Green Herons were other highlights.

It was tough to find warblers. We didn’t see our first one until around 9:30 and we saw most of them near the parking lot as we ended the walk. They were 1 Nashville, 1 Hooded, 3 American Redstarts, 2 Magnolias, 1 Bay-breasted, 3 Blackburnians, 1 Chestnut-sided, 1 Blackpoll, and 2 Black-throated Greens. Overall, we listed 40 species. –by leader Dave Brooke

Pymatuning State Park – September 23: Seventeen birders including five members of Boy Scout Troop 73 and their three leaders from Lawrenceville gathered at the Wildlife Learning Center expecting to see raptors, waterfowl, waders, and migratory songbirds.

Following introductions, I told the group I had three expectations for our day: to have fun, to expect the unexpected as it related to finding life birds or observing interesting bird behavior, and to see something so special that it causes you to smile and say aloud, “Wow!” To get the fun factor off to a good start, I handed out Jolly Rancher candy to everyone. The Boy Scouts were all smiles.

As we walked to the impoundment overlook where the museum used to be, we heard the rattled calls of Sandhill Cranes coming from across the marsh. We had no luck locating them. Perhaps as a more positive omen, two juvenile Bald Eagles were easily scoped on a small island snag, sitting close together. An adult eagle, flying parallel along the shoreline, provided a more satisfying and dramatic view. On the water, Double-crested Cormorants seemed to be everywhere, along with some Canada Geese. While walking along the asphalt path, we flushed Mallards resting on large branches of several fallen trees. While we scanned the woody shoreline near the spillway, we enjoyed a solitary Redhead, especially when viewed through a scope.

As we continued along the path, bird activity began to pick up in the shrubs and trees closer to the parking lot. We quickly noted Chimney Swifts flying overhead, a Downy and a Red-bellied Woodpecker, a Gray Catbird, and several White-breasted

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OUTING FAVORITE –Birders on 3RBC’s September 29 outing at Frick Park were delighted to spot this Yellow-billed Cuckoo amid the vegetation. (photograph by Lauren Nagoda)

Outings Revisitedcontinued from page 8Nuthatches. A Red-eyed Vireo was softly singing. A Blackpoll Warbler and a pair of Black-throated Green Warblers also provided close views. Seventeen species were tallied in our first location. What a great way to start the day and make a good impression on the young birders!

We next stopped at the Spillway hoping to find a duck that wasn’t a Mallard. We did! Another Redhead was swimming close to the fenced area where people throw bread to feed the carp and ducks. Many Ring-billed Gulls were perched atop the fence or standing close together on the parking lot. Careful scanning revealed a few Herring Gulls mixed in with them. On the lake side, a solitary Caspian Tern and a Great Blue Heron stood out from among the many cormorants, Ring-billed Gulls, and a few Herring Gulls that were sitting close together on the rocks. Unfortunately the tern flew off before the Scouts could see it. A solitary Bald Eagle was easily scoped on Glen Island. A sudden eagle flyover close to the breakwall put the cormorants and gulls into flight momentarily before they returned.

Next we traveled to the area near the old Tuttle Beach and Campground to look for songbirds and woodpeckers, especially the Red-headed Woodpeckers. This area provided us with the day’s first Turkey Vultures, American Crows, an Eastern Towhee, Black-capped Chickadees, and a Ruby-throated Hummingbird. We diligently searched for a Red-breasted Nuthatch that had been heard, and then located a pair of them flying back and forth in a group of large pine trees. Unfortunately, the birds never lingered in the open long enough for really good looks before flying away. Along the road, we also took our time to study the warblers we spied in dense habitat close to the road. Despite their hyperactivity while foraging, we identified single Hooded, Chestnut-sided, Nashville, Blackpoll, and Bay-breasted Warblers.

When we reached the section of the marsh to look for the Red-headed Woodpeckers, we almost instantly began finding them. As they flew back and forth and landed on snags, they usually seemed to be caching acorns. The birds put on quite a show and provided wonderful opportunities for us to admire their beauty. We decided to count as many woodies as we could see at one time. Our

effort netted five adults and a juvenile. After a leisurely lunch at the Spillway Inn, we headed over

to the Fish Hatchery. Along the shoreline of the smaller driveway pond three Greater Yellowlegs and two Killdeer were spotted. While scanning the wetlands, we saw seven Great Egrets standing close together in the water, and an Osprey circling overhead. A Gadwall, a Red-breasted Merganser, and three Northern Shovelers were other interesting discoveries. Along the water’s edge near the back of the hatchery, an adult and a juvenile eagle were standing side by side and drinking water. The youngster dipped its head once, perhaps to bathe or cool off. 

One of the scout leaders told me the boys were finished with birdwatching and wanted to return to the Spillway to feed bread to the gulls and carp. This was the troop’s first experience with birdwatching, and hopefully they will want to return for the annual spring outing at Pymatuning. Our group next visited the Hartstown Project area where we found a Belted Kingfisher, had a brief glimpse of a Meadowlark, and watched a pair of Hooded Mergansers swim in the pond.

The Miller Ponds area provided some unexpected and spectacular sightings. We witnessed a flock of crows fly along the edge of the woods and fields near the maintenance building that must have numbered well over 100 birds. In the field near the larger of the two ponds, 35 Sandhill Cranes were feeding among a large flock of geese. Toward the back of the pond, four dowitchers were drilling into the mud. They were too far away and in poor light to try to identify as the Short-billed or the Long-billed species. A few Greater and Lesser Yellowlegs were also nearby, and a Green Heron was tucked closely to tall plants.

Our final destination was McMichael Road to check out the large marsh. Many Red-winged Blackbirds were flying around. Four Sandhill Cranes were first heard and then easily watched as they flew over and out of view. The outing’s last species turned out to be the same as our first – a flyover by a pair of Bald Eagles. We totaled 54 species day and lots of smiles and “Wow” moments for the participants. – by leader Bob VanNewkirk

Frick Park – September 29: Led by Susie and Jack Solomon, 36 birders gathered at the park’s Blue Slide entrance to witness fall migration. We encountered a mixed flock soon after entering the woods. Participants appreciated the boldly patterned tails and yellow bellies of several Magnolia Warblers. Nearby, a Black-and-white Warbler exhibited its nuthatch-like foraging style. Cedar Waxwings, American Robins, and American Goldfinches vocalized above us while one Eastern Wood-Pewee and a Wood Thrush added their voices to the fray.

Near the dog park, two Red-breasted Nuthatches allowed extended views. This species has become common throughout the county this fall, easily located by its nasal vocalizations. An impressively loud beagle convinced us to return to the trail, where we soon saw another harbinger of fall, a White-throated Sparrow. As we exited the cover of the canopy, we were greeted by several chattering Carolina Wrens in the same tree as a brightly-marked Blue-headed Vireo.

It was a good day to keep one’s eyes to the sky. Blue Jays called raucously and flew over in loose groups. Low-flying Chimney Swifts obscured by the canopy looked suspiciously like warblers, causing more than one birder to double-take. Raptors were on the move: a Broad-winged Hawk and a male American Kestrel circled on rising thermals. Another Broad-winged Hawk gave a brief but close view as it swooped directly over the group. Oblivious to this excitement, a Northern Raccoon was spotted snoozing in a tree.

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3RBC DISPLAY –Our club received statewide attention at the Pennsylvania Society for Ornithology’s annual meeting in September in Crawford County. Tom Moeller, our treasurer and webmaster, and Sheree Daugherty, our new president, put together this display for the meeting hall using photos provided by Tom.

Lesser Black-backed GullsTracked from PA and Back

Lesser Black-backed Gulls have an interesting history in Pennsylvania. This widely distributed Old World species was uncommon to rare in North America until recent decades. Now it is regularly common during much of the year in Pennsylvania’s southeastern corner, and small numbers are found annually elsewhere in the state.

Pennsylvania’s first record was in Bucks County in February 1960, but great increases began in the 1990s. The total on Pennsylvania’s 2017-2018 Christmas Bird Count was 461.

Where do they go when they leave for the summer? Pennsylvania Game Commission biologists decided to find out. Last winter they attached satellite transmitters on nine gulls to determine where they went.

By early October, seven of the gulls with transmitters that still functioned came back, mostly to eastern Pennsylvania and New Jersey, and one to Virginia’s portion of the Delmarva Peninsula.

The gulls traveled in diverse directions to breeding-season areas as far north as Greenland and Baffin Island in Canada’s Nunavut territory. Search “Lesser Black-backed Telemetry” at pgc.pa.gov for a colorful map of their journeys. Be prepared for surprises, such as one gull’s long-distance flights over the ocean.

Game Commission Biologist Patricia Barber reported this fall’s news of the returning birds on the Pabirds listserv. Besides the gulls with transmitters, other Lesser Black-backs received U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service bands.

Patricia asks birders to contact her if they see any of these gulls with bands or telemetry antennas. Include location, date, and the birds’ behaviors and send the information to patbarber@pa.gov.

We’re Losing These Acrobats

Common Nighthawks, their moth-like flights, and their harsh nasal calls used to be common sights in urban areas. No longer. They decrease because pesticide use has diminished their diet of flying moths and traditional rooftop nest sites are disappearing.

Mike Fialkovich mentions their status in his bird report on page 12. Dave Brooke photographed this migrant on August 27, 2018, in Natrona Heights, Allegheny County.

Before making the final ascent to the top of Riverview Hill, a Gray Catbird and a Brown Thrasher gave brief views, while a Rose-breasted Grosbeak chipped nearby. We ducked under a Bald-faced Hornet nest and climbed the hill where we found our only other warbler, a Black-throated Green, in Susie’s reliable elm. Brief views of a young Yellow-bellied Sapsucker provided us with our sixth woodpecker species of the day, joining Red-bellied, Downy, Hairy, Pileated, and Northern Flicker.

As the sapsucker flew, the group turned its attention to a Yellow-billed Cuckoo glimpsed by a few keen-eyed birders. Once re-found among the dense vegetation, this unusually confiding cuckoo stole the show. It approached ever closer, giving at least one participant a life bird and all of us great views of a typically hard-to-see species.

We totaled 35 species on this crisp, sunny morning. After Lauren Nagoda distributed free Audubon guides to Western Pennsylvania birding trails, some of us headed out for a bagel-and-coffee brunch--a Solomon birding tradition. –by participant Tessa Rhinehart

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CLOSE ENCOUNTER –Patrick Kopnicky was fortunate to have a Red-shouldered Hawk pair nesting on his Fawn Township property in northern Allegheny. The nest produced three young. Patrick was mowing with his tractor on June 17, 2018, when he spotted one of the young on his fence. It allowed close approach, evidently not alarmed by the combination of rider and tractor. He photographed it with his iPhone, and Mike Krumrine edited the image.

Birds in the Three Rivers Area

Blue Grosbeaks HighlightSightings in June−July 2018By Mike Fialkovich, Bird Reports Editor

There were a few surprises this summer, extending the excitement of spring.

Development continues at the Imperial Grasslands. As reported last year, the trees and shrubs in a large area were chopped down and left on the ground. This area began to regenerate and became a large habitat of scrub with small trees and herbaceous plants. In a way, this rejuvenated the bird life at the site as the habitat became attractive to Yellow-breasted Chats, Orchard Orioles, Indigo Buntings, and Prairie Warblers. It was nice to see the Prairie Warblers remaining, because it was thought they would find the area undesirable following the clearing of the land. Savannah and Grasshopper Sparrows are holding on at the few remaining areas of grass. A big surprise was the discovery of Blue Grosbeaks at the site. Details follow. How long this habitat will remain is unknown.

A Common Merganser was at Duck Hollow 6/29 and 7/17 (JS, SS).

There was a concerted effort to find Common Nighthawks in the county this summer. Observers found them in many locations and noted their absence in locations where they were formerly reliable. They seem to be most numerous in the old towns along the river valleys.

A group of five American Avocets were photographed along the Monongahela River near the Southside in Pittsburgh 7/3 (fide CS, JS) − quite a surprise for this time of year. In the past when avocets have appeared in the county, they were usually found later in the summer. The last report of this species was in 2016. A Semipalmated Plover was at Imperial 7/20 (MV), and 1 was at Duck Hollow 7/31 (MJ). A Least Sandpiper was also at Duck Hollow 7/31 (MJ). A Short-billed Dowitcher was at Imperial 7/20-21 (MV and others).

A second-summer Bonaparte’s Gull in heavy molt was discovered at Duck Hollow on the Monongahela River 7/9 (TM, NM). It remained until 7/19 (various observers) and represented the first summer record in the county. (See Tom Moeller’s article and photo in the September/October 2018 Peregrine.) Up to 68 adults and 20 juvenile Herring Gulls were counted at the Highland Park Bridge breeding colony 6/2 (SK). Two Caspian Terns were at Dashields Dam 7/29 (MV).

Great Crested Flycatchers are local breeders in the county and not widely reported, so any reports are of interest. Single birds were reported in Frick Park in June (STi, DWe, MF).

Veery is a local breeder and normally reported only from North Park and nearby Pine Twp., so a report from Sewickley Heights Park 7/2 (AP, SA, JC) was notable.

Single Purple Finches were regularly reported in Pine Twp. during the season. A pair was there 7/14-15 (PL, SL).

A Swamp Sparrow was reported from Imperial 7/2 (AP, SA, JC). This is a local breeder, and the reclamation wetlands in the Imperial area are a reliable place to find them. Meanwhile, an area of the Imperial Grasslands away from the reclamation following surface mining a few years ago has grown into a nice grassland, and this summer Grasshopper Sparrows, Savannah Sparrows and Henslow’s Sparrows were found there (various observers).

Yellow-breasted Chats were more numerous at Imperial than in recent years due to the habitat changes mentioned above. Other

reports include 2 at Hilltop Park in South Fayette Twp. 6/3 (LN) and 1 each in Elizabeth Twp. 6/13 (TH), Boyce-Mayview Park 6/14 (ST), and Dead Man’s Hollow 6/26 (JM).

A few Bobolinks were at Imperial this summer, where this species remains in small numbers. This year they could be seen from what locals call the Truck Stop, an area of grassland that has escaped development for now.

A Pine Siskin was photographed at a feeder in Creighton 7/18 (LE). I asked the observer if there was more than a single bird and if was seen regularly, but the observer saw it only that day.

An Ovenbird was heard in June at Imperial (various observers) and 1 was at Sewickley Heights Park 7/2 (AP, SA, JC). This species is very local in the county during the breeding season, although numerous just across the border of western and northern parts of the county in Washington and Butler counties respectively. Worm-eating Warbler is also a local breeder, and 2 were at Harrison Hills Park in June; a regular location in summer.

A Louisiana Waterthrush was found at Sewickley Heights Park 7/2 (AP, SA, JC). While this species is a regular breeder in the numerous streams in that area, reports after June are notable because the birds become quiet at that time of year. A number

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Birds in the Three Riverscontinued from page 11

YOUNGSTERS − Dave Brooke photographed this juvenile Hooded Warbler (left) on July 4, 2018, and this fledgling Kentucky Warbler on June 30, 2018, at Harrison Hills Park. Mike Fialkovich discusses nesting-season warblers in his June-July report.

of notable warbler reports came from Harrison Hills Park: A Black-and-white Warbler 6/15 (DB) was found at this regular breeding location. Kentucky Warbler has declined, but a pair was confirmed breeding there this summer (DB). Unusual in summer, a Black-throated Green Warbler was heard singing during the entire month of June at the park (DB et al.). This is another species not known to breed in Allegheny County, although it nests a short distance north of the park in southern Butler County.

A pair of Blue Grosbeaks was discovered at Imperial 6/10 (JC, SA, TRh). Later in the day an immature male was observed there (MD). Two continued until 6/13 (various observers). After that date, the birds apparently left. Subsequent searches did not

turn up the birds. Observers thought they would breed and would be present all summer, but apparently that was not the case. Interestingly, this species bred at the site from 1994 to 1996. A single bird was there 7/29/2006.

Observers: Sameer Apte, Dave Brooke, Jack Chaillet, Michael David, Laura Eiler, Mike Fialkovich, Todd Hooe, Matthew Juskowich, Scott Kinzey, Pat Lynch, Sherron Lynch, Jeff McDonald, Shannon Thompson, Nancy Moeller, Tom Moeller, Lauren Nagoda, Aidan Place, Tessa Rhinehart (TRh), Jack Solomon, Sue Solomon, Claire Staples, Steve Tirone (STi), Mark Vass, Dan Weeks (DWe).

AMAZING DISCOVERY – This juvenile Piping Plover, banded as a nestling at Presque Isle this spring, was photographed by Pat and Doris Leary on September 21, 2018, in Florida.

Presque Isle’s Piping Plovers

Presque Isle’s Piping Plover story is more exciting year by year, and it is a significant chapter in North American ornithology and conservation. Western Pennsylvania birders are fortunate to have this saga unfold in our birding “back yard.”

The news in 2017 was nesting of two pairs − the species’ first nests at Presque Isle since the mid-1950s. One nest successfully fledged young. The other nest and eggs were saved in a dramatic rescue by conservation personnel from storm waters on the beach. The eggs were incubated artificially, raised at a rehabilitation facility in Michigan, and released into the wild.

This year’s news is twofold. First, a nest at Gull Point produced four fledglings. Second, amazingly, one of these 2018 youngsters happened to be discovered in Florida in September and identified by its leg bands. 

This youngster stopped to feed for energy during migration or perhaps to stay for the winter. In either case, it was a needle-in-a-haystack discovery. The remarkable photograph is at left.

Search “Piping Plover” at the Pennsylvania Game Commission website pgc.pa.gov for the fascinating story. These Presque Isle birds are important because the Great Lakes population is classified as federally Endangered.