Bob Barnes & Associates presents:
Valley Wild in the beautiful Kern River Valley Kern County, California
2007 NatureFest Schedule at a Glance
BIRD SIGHTINGS
Kern River Valley & North Mojave Desert Noteworthy Bird Sightings
Birding Spring 2005
(March-May)
Goal: To provide a motivating mix of bird species observations with reports of interest to all birders: beginning to expert, Kern County specialists, northern California & southern California, out-of-California (U.S. & International), listers and non-listers,...
Universal Access, Current Reliable Locations, Sample Birding Itineraries, and Spring Early Arrival Dates History (1998-2005) on "Spring Birding Notes" web page!
Numerous links to other bird sightings pages are found below.
Submit observations or make inquiries to: Bob Barnes
MAJOR TIP: Birding early (starting at dawn) and carefully (spending time) = birds observed...
Lawrence's Goldfinch & Research Help Request: Spring 2003, Emily Cohen with the Southern Sierra Research Station started a research project involving a comparative study of Lesser Goldfinch and Lawrence's Goldfinch. The study area is located in the Colt Pasture west down the ranch road from the Kern River Preserve Headquarters parking lot. The study involves banding of goldfinches. 193 goldfinches were color-banded in 2004, 75 Lessers and 118 Lawrence's. Emily invites you to visit and observe during remaining spring 2005 early morning banding sessions 30 May-2 June, and 13-16 June. The 30 May-2 June banding session will be during A time of peak abundance of Lawrence's Goldfinch at the Kern River Preserve in some prior years. Thank you.
Updated as of 12:00pm, Monday, May 23, 2005
KEY: CER-Canebrake Ecological Reserve as accessed on n. side of Hwy. 178 at Milepost 66.7 (at the easternmost Joshua tree across from the "Canebrake Cafe 2 mi." sign) between the communities of Canebrake on the east and Onyx on the west, DMP- Desert Memorial Park (cemetery) on w. side of County Line Road, 0.7 mi. s. of Hwy. 178 at the e. end of Ridgecrest; FOS - First of Spring; KRP-Kern River Preserve, Weldon; KRV-Kern River Valley, SFWA-South Fork Wildlife Area (north side accessed from Sierra Way at Hanning Flat and at signed SFWA parking lot west of the bridge over the South Fork Kern River, south side accessed by trail from Hwy. 178 just outside the southwest corner fence of the KOA Kampground in Weldon and from Hwy. 178 just west of the sand & gravel plant in Weldon).
Mo, 23 May 05 - Report from China Lake NAWS ponds: Least Tern 1. SUST.
NOTE: Although this area is off-limits to the public unless one has obtained a quarterly pass, this report provides status and distribution information. Publicly accessible Central Park in California City has provided east Kern County records of this species in the past. BOBA.
Mo, 23 May 05 - Report from 5:15am-6:40am visit to Desert Memorial Park (AKA Ridgecrest Cemetery), County Line Road, Ridgecrest: Greater Roadrunner 2 (one on nest, other foraging), Willow Flycatcher 1, Pacific-slope Flycatcher 2, Say's Phoebe 1, Western Kingbird 1, Townsend's Warbler 1, Wilson's Warbler 1, Western Tanager 2, Great-tailed Grackle 1. BOBA.
Su, 22 May 05 - Report from Cerro Coso College in Ridgecrest: Black-and-white Warbler. JOSE.
Su, 22 May 05 - Butterbredt Spring highlights: Willow Flycatcher (most numerous Empidonax), Hammond's Flycatcher, Dusky Flycatcher, Gray Flycatcher, Pacific-slope Flycatcher, Northern Parula, Yellow Warbler, Townsend's Warbler, Black-and-white Warbler, MacGillivray's Warbler, Wilson's Warbler. MIMC, STSO.
Su, 22 May 05 - 5:50am-7am, Desert Memorial Park (AKA Ridgecrest Cemetery), County Line Road, Ridgecrest. Highlights:Greater Roadrunner 1 (on nest), Say's Phoebe 1, Yellow Warbler 1, Hermit Warbler 1, Wilson's Warbler 6, Western Tanager 6, Sage Sparrow 1, Great-tailed Grackle 1. BOBA.
Sa, 21 May 05 - Report from Cerro Coso College in Ridgecrest: Summer Tanager. JOSE.
Sa, 21 May 05 - California City highlights: Continuing Tundra Swan, Ross's Goose, and Red Crossbill (juvenile following adult). TOMI, BIMY.
Fr, 20 May 05 - 6am-7:30am, Desert Memorial Park (AKA Ridgecrest Cemetery), County Line Road, Ridgecrest. Highlights:Greater Roadrunner 1 (on nest), Western Wood-Pewee 1, Say's Phoebe 1, Verdin 2, Swainson's Thrush 3, MacGillivray's Warbler 1, Wilson's Warbler 5-10, Western Tanager 3, Great-tailed Grackle 1. BOBA.
Th, 19 May 05 - 6:45am-8am, Desert Memorial Park (AKA Ridgecrest Cemetery), County Line Road, Ridgecrest. Highlights:Greater Roadrunner 2, Western Wood-Pewee 1, Say's Phoebe 1, Western Kingbird 1, Warbling Vireo 1, Verdin 2, Swainson's Thrush 2, Wilson's Warbler 5-10, Western Tanager 4, Pine Siskin 1, Lesser Goldfinch 2. BOBA.
We, 18 May 05 - Band-tailed Pigeon, Olive-sided Flycatcher, Willow Flycatcher, Northern Parula, Townsend's Warbler, and Evening Grosbeak highlighted reports from Butterbredt Spring. The Ovenbird and Kentucky Warbler were not found. BR, KEKY, TOMC.
We, 18 May 05 - A Eurasian Collared-Dove was heard and seen this morning in a Ridgecrest backyard located on Las Cruces Ave. west of Downs and between Drummond and Las Flores. The primary observer states that one or two individuals of this species have been present since last year. ENCA, BOBA.
Tu, 17 May 05 - The Kentucky Warbler, first reported by BRKY and KEKY, continued at Butterbredt Spring as of sunset. TOBA, STGR.
Tu, 17 May 05 - 28 Lesser Goldfinch and Lawrence's Goldfinch were banded this morning at KRP (See goldfinch study info. above.). Captures included unbanded individuals, hatching year individuals, and recaptures from last 2004. The peak for Lawrence's Goldfinch numbers at this site in prior years has been reached the last week of May or the first week of June with 200-250 individuals counted in 2002 and 2003. EMCO, AMSC.
Tu, 17 May 05 - A singing Northern Parula, an Ovenbird, and a Kentucky Warbler (AKA Kerntucky Warbler) were reported to be at Butterbredt Spring this morning. Also reported there were Olive-sided Flycatcher, Willow Flycatcher, Cassin's Vireo, and Townsend's Warbler. BRKY, KEKY.
Tu, 17 May 05 - A pair of Mountain Quail were seen along Chimney Peak National Backcountry Byway this morning. Plumbeous Vireo continued farther up the road at Chimney Creek Campground (Tulare County). BOBA, ENCA.
Mo, 16 May 05 - 6:30am-7:40am, Desert Memorial Park (AKA Ridgecrest Cemetery), County Line Road, Ridgecrest. Highlights:Red-tailed Hawk 1, Greater Roadrunner 1 (on nest), Western Wood-Pewee 1, Verdin 1, Wilson's Warbler 2, Lazuli Bunting 4, Great-tailed Grackle 1. BOBA.
Su, 15 May 05 - 7am-8:20am, Desert Memorial Park (AKA Ridgecrest Cemetery), County Line Road, Ridgecrest. Highlights:Greater Roadrunner 2, Long-eared Owl 1, Olive-sided Flycatcher 1, Western Wood-Pewee 1, Western Kingbird 2, Verdin 1, Wilson's Warbler 3, Western Tanager 3, Sage Sparrow 3, Great-tailed Grackle 1, Lesser Goldfinch 1. BOBA.
Su, 15 May 05 - A male and female Northern Parula were reported to be at Butterbredt Spring. LIAU, MAFR, NIFR, STGR, TOWU.
Su, 15 May 05 - Highlights of a visit to the Kern National Wildlife Refuge by a birding tour group from Michigan included: Eared Grebe, White-faced Ibis, Gadwall, Mallard, Cinnamon Teal, Northern Shoveler, Northern Pintail, Redhead, Ring-necked Duck, Bufflehead, Ruddy Duck, Northern Harrier, Common Moorhen, Black-necked Stilt, American Avocet, Burrowing Owl, Marsh Wren, and Yellow-headed Blackbird. BISW, et. al.
Su, 15 May 05- Highlights of a visit by a birding tour group from Michigan to the west slope of the Greenhorn Mountains included: Cassin's Vireo and Lawrence's Goldfinch. BISW, et. al.
Sa, 14 May 05 - An adult male Magnolia Warbler and an Ovenbird were at Butterbredt Spring. LIAU, STGR, ANHO, VEHO, SAKO, TOWU.
Sa, 14 May 05 - 7am-8:20am, Desert Memorial Park (AKA Ridgecrest Cemetery), County Line Road, Ridgecrest. Highlights: Say's Phoebe 1, Western Kingbird 2, Horned Lark 1, Swainson's Thrush 1 Cedar Waxwing 1, Wilson's Warbler 6, Western Tanager 8, Black-headed Grosbeak 2, Great-tailed Grackle 1, Lesser Goldfinch 1. BOBA.
Sa, 14 May 05 - Highlights of a visit by a birding tour group from Michigan to Main Dam Campground just below Isabella Reservoir included: Spotted Sandpiper, Canyon Wren, and American Dipper. BISW, et. al.
Sa, 14 May 05 - Highlights of a visit by a birding tour group from Michigan to the Greenhorn Mountains included: Band-tailed Pigeon, White-headed Woodpecker, Dusky Flycatcher, Mountain Chickadee, Winter Wren, Golden-crowned Kinglet, Yellow-rumped (Audubon's) Warbler, and Fox Sparrow (Large-billed). BISW, et. al.
Sa, 14 May 05 - Highlights of a visit by a birding tour group from Michigan to Fay Ranch Road and the east unit of the Kern River Preserve included: Barn Owl, Western Screech-Owl (heard only), Vermilion Flycatcher, Townsend's Warbler, Lark Sparrow, Savannah Sparrow, Blue Grosbeak, and Lawrence's Goldfinch. BISW, et. al.
Sa, 14 May 05 - A highlight of a visit by a birding tour group from Michigan to KRP's Migrant Corner Trail included: Wood Duck. BISW, et. al.
Fr, 13 May 05 - A birding tour group from Michigan reported the following highlights. Isabella Reservoir: American White Pelican. KRP entrance at Hwy. 178: Tricolored Blackbird. Scodie Park in Onyx: Red Crossbill 5, Hooded Oriole. Chimney Peak National Backcountry Byway: California Quail, Mountain Quail, Ash-throated Flycatcher, Western Kingbird, Cactus Wren, Canyon Wren, Rock Wren, Bewick's Wren, Loggerhead Shrike, Western Scrub-Jay, Phainopepla, California Towhee, Black-throated Sparrow, Bullock's Oriole, Scott's Oriole. Chimney Creek Campground: Mountain Quail, Western Wood-Pewee, Gray Flycatcher, Plumbeous Vireo, Steller's Jay, Western Scrub-Jay, Mountain Chickadee, Oak Titmouse, Bushtit, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Wilson's Warbler, Western Tanager, Spotted Towhee, Black-headed Grosbeak, Lazuli Bunting, Cassin's Finch, Pine Siskin, Lawrence's Goldfinch. Cliffs above Hwy. 178 just east of Cottage Grove Cemetery: Prairie Falcon, White-throated Swift, Canyon Wren. Sequoia Studios, Art Gallery, and Nature Store: Black-chinned Hummingbird, Anna's Hummingbird, Western Wood-Pewee, Western Kingbird (on nest), California Towhee, Lesser Goldfinch. Piute Mountain Road & Landers Meadow: California Quail, Mountain Quail, Olive-sided Flycatcher, Western Wood-Pewee, Gray Flycatcher, Steller's Jay, Western Scrub-Jay, Clark's Nutcracker, Violet-green Swallow, Western Bluebird, Green-tailed Towhee. BISW, et. al.
We, 11 May 05 - A 7:40am-9:20am survey of the Truxton Lakes and the multi-acre patch of native vegetation immediately to the west in the Kern River Parkway, Bakersfield yielded the following report of 40 species: Canada Goose 2, Mallard 4, Cinnamon Teal 1, Ruddy Duck 4, Pied-billed Grebe 1, Double-crested Cormorant 1, Great Egret 1, Green Heron 3, American Coot 11 (including two young), Killdeer 3, Black-necked Stilt 5, Caspian Tern 1, Mourning Dove 6, Rose-ringed Parakeet 9, Black-chinned Hummingbird 1, Anna's Hummingbird 2, Downy Woodpecker 2, Western Wood-Pewee 3, Black Phoebe 2, Ash-throated Flycatcher 1, Western Kingbird 3, Western Scrub-Jay 5, American Crow 17, Warbling Vireo 1, Cliff Swallow 2, Bewick's Wren 4, American Robin 8, Northern Mockingbird 2, European Starling 5, Cedar Waxwing 6, Yellow Warbler 3, Wilson's Warbler 3, Western Tanager 2, Black-headed Grosbeak 4, Red-winged Blackbird 1, Great-tailed Grackle 1, Brown-headed Cowbird 5, Bullock's Oriole 9, House Finch 11 and Goldfinch species 1. BOBA, RADR.
We, 11 May 05 - A 5:20am-7:10am survey of the triangular patch of native vegetation in the Kern River Parkway at the west end of Yokuts Park, Bakersfield yielded the following report of 24 species: Mallard 2, Killdeer 1, Rock Pigeon 1, Mourning Dove 4, Black-chinned Hummingbird 2, Anna's Hummingbird 2, Downy Woodpecker 2, Western Kingbird 3, Western Scrub-Jay 4, American Crow 1, Cliff Swallow 4, Swainson's Thrush 1, American Robin 6, Northern Mockingbird 4, European Starling 11, Cedar Waxwing 2, MacGillivray's Warbler 1, Western Tanager 1, Black-headed Grosbeak 2, Lazuli Bunting 1, Brewer's Blackbird 1, Brown-headed Cowbird 5, Bullock's Oriole 7, and House Finch 6. BOBA, RADR.
Tu, 10 May 05 - A 5:20am-9:40am survey of the Kern River and Parkway inside the levees between Manor Street and Chester Avenue in Bakersfield yielded the following report of 60 species: Canada Goose, Mallard 22, Gadwall 2 (a pair), California Quail, Pied-billed Grebe, Double-crested Cormorant, Green Heron, Red-shouldered Hawk, American Kestrel, American Coot, Killdeer, Rock Pigeon, Mourning Dove, Rose-ringed Parakeet, Vaux's Swift 1, Black-chinned Hummingbird, Anna's Hummingbird, Belted Kingfisher 1, Nuttall's Woodpecker (1 male), Downy Woodpecker, Western Wood-Pewee, Willow Flycatcher 1, Hammond's Flycatcher 1, Gray Flycatcher 3, Pacific-slope Flycatcher 1, Empidonax flycatcher 1, Black Phoebe, Ash-throated Flycatcher, Western Kingbird, Warbling Vireo, Western Scrub Jay, American Crow, Northern Rough-winged Swallow, Barn Swallow 1, Cliff Swallow, Bushtit, Bewick's Wren, House Wren, Swainson's Thrush 4, American Robin, Northern Mockingbird, European Starling, Cedar Waxwing, Orange-crowned Warbler 2, Yellow Warbler 5, Townsend's Warbler 2, Common Yellowthroat 5, Wilson's Warbler 4, Yellow-breasted Chat 1, Western Tanager 28, Spotted Towhee, Song Sparrow, Black-headed Grosbeak 24, Blue Grosbeak 10, Red-winged Blackbird, Brewer's Blackbird, Brown-headed Cowbird, Bullock's Oriole, House Finch, Lesser Goldfinch, and House Sparrow. BOBA, ASSU.
Su, 8 May 05 - A Cassin's Kingbird was reported from at the oasis found off the west side of Kelso Valley Road just south of the Piute Mountain Road. This oasis consists of a stock pond at the lower end and cottonwood and willows above. STGR, TOWU.
Su, 8 May 05 - A "weeting" male Hooded Oriole and four Red Crossbills highlighted a 10am-10:30am visit to Scodie Park in Onyx. The Red Crossbills seemed to consist of two red adult males, one light-colored female , and one dark yellow 2nd year male. BOBA, TEGA, ASSU.
Su, 8 May 05 - An FOS Plumbeous Vireo (singing) highlighted a visit to Chimney Creek Campground, alongside the Chimney Peak National Backcountry Byway in far southeastern Tulare County, 8am-9am: California Quail, Mountain Quail (one individual seen), Red-tailed Hawk, Mourning Dove, Western Wood-Pewee, Hammond's Flycatcher (migrant), Gray Flycatcher (nesting species), Plumbeous Vireo, Steller's Jay, Western Scrub-Jay, Common Raven, Bushtit, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, Ruby-crowned Kinglet (migrant), Black-throated Gray Warbler, Western Tanager, Chipping Sparrow, Black-headed Grosbeak, Lazuli Bunting, Brown-headed Cowbird, Purple Finch, Pine Siskin, and Lawrence's Goldfinch. BOBA, ASSU.
Su, 8 May 05 - Five wren species identified while standing on a single spot highlighted a visit to an interface of silver cholla/Joshua tree woodland, gray pine, live oak, and steep rocky hillside c. 2 miles up Chimney Peak National Backcountry Byway from Hwy. 178 (0.7 miles east of Milepost 70.00) 8 miles east of Onyx and east of Canebrake. Also, Chukar and Mountain Quail close at hand by the side of this two-lane dirt road, and six, separate singing male Scott's Orioles between 2.0 miles and the last major switchback before the Kern County/Tulare County line at the pass. 6am-7:45am Species List as accessed from this section of road: Chukar 4 locations (one individual seen), California Quail, Mountain Quail 10-15 locations (two individuals seen), Mourning Dove, White-throated Swift, Ash-throated Flycatcher, Western Kingbird, Loggerhead Shrike, Western Scrub-Jay, Common Raven, Cactus Wren, Rock Wren, Canyon Wren, Bewick's Wren, House Wren, Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, Wrentit, European Starling, Nashville Warbler, Western Tanager, Spotted Towhee, California Towhee, Brewer's Sparrow, Black-throated Sparrow, Black-headed Grosbeak, Brewer's Blackbird, Bullock's Oriole, Scott's Oriole, House Finch, and Lawrence's Goldfinch. BOBA, ASSU.
Su, 8 May 05 - A male Scott's Oriole was singing persistently at 5:45am 200 meters/yards east of Hwy. 178 Milepost 74.00 and Bert's Park rest stop. BOBA.
Sa, 7 May 05 - A Plumbeous Vireo among the numerous Cassin's Vireo, two Red-breasted Nuthatch, Swainson's Thrush and twelve warbler species including Black-and-white Warbler and American Redstart (No Nashville Warblers were mentioned.) highlighted a Butterbredt Spring report. MIMC.
Sa, 7 May 05 - 7:15am-8:30am, Desert Memorial Park (AKA Ridgecrest Cemetery), County Line Road, Ridgecrest: Greater Roadrunner (on nest), Anna's Hummingbird, Western Wood-Pewee, Western Kingbird, Horned Lark, Verdin, Yellow Warbler, MacGillivray's Warbler, Western Tanager, Black-headed Grosbeak, Great-tailed Grackle. BOBA.
Fr, 6 May 05 - The Tundra Swan was still at California City's Central Park along with the resident Ross's Goose and an estimated 110 Wilson's Warblers. TOWU.
Fr, 6 May 05 - 2-3 American Redstart, 2 Green-tailed Towhee, and abundant Black-headed Grosbeak at Butterbredt Spring reported. TOBA, STGR.
Th, 5 May 05 - An FOS Southwestern Willow Flycatcher arrived at a traditional nesting territory bordering the entrance road to the Kern River Preserve in Weldon. RETO.
We, 4 May 05 - A second, confirmed pair of Vermilion Flycatchers has been reported for the South Fork Valley. NOTE: from BOBA: One continuing pair had been confirmed this year and prior years with up to four pairs total suspected based on the presence of males. This new confirmed pair was reported by RETO to be on the new addition to the Kern River Preserve located east off Fay Ranch Road. This is a permission-only portion of the Preserve. RETO.
We, 4 May 05 - The Red Crossbills continued at Scodie Park in Onyx. BOBA.
We, 4 May 05 - A seemingly late American Pipit and a singing male Blue Grosbeak highlighted a 6:15am-8:05am survey of the 19-acre Bob Powers Gateway Preserve. The preserve is located just southwest of the junction of Hwy. 178 and Hwy. 155 in Lake Isabella. Also recorded were Killdeer 2, Mourning Dove 1, White-throated Swift 7, Western Kingbird 1, Common Raven 3, Northern Rough-winged Swallow 2, Cliff Swallow 2, Northern Mockingbird 2, European Starling 30, Common Yellowthroat 1 female, Savannah Sparrow 3, Song Sparrow 4, Red-winged Blackbird 7, Tricolored Blackbird 207, Western Meadowlark 1, Brewer's Blackbird 3, Brown-headed Cowbird 2, House Finch 2, Lesser Goldfinch 1, and House Sparrow 1. BOBA. NOTE: Plant and animal surveys are now being made of the Bob Powers Gateway Preserve to help direct siting of two, shallow ponds totaling 4.4 acres in size, a nature trail with a boardwalk segment, and benches along the way for sitting and observing. BOBA.
We, 3 May 05 - A Red Crossbill highlighted a 6am-8:40am survey of the lower ranch at the Canebrake Ecological Reserve. Also recorded were Wood Duck, Mallard, California Quail, American Kestrel, Mourning Dove, Anna's Hummingbird, Nuttall's Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Western Wood-Pewee, Dusky Flycatcher, Gray Flycatcher, Black Phoebe, Ash-throated Flycatcher, Western Kingbird, Warbling Vireo, Western Scrub-Jay, Common Raven, Tree Swallow, Oak Titmouse, Bushtit, White-breasted Nuthatch, Canyon Wren, Bewick's Wren, House Wren, American Robin, Western Bluebird, Northern Mockingbird, California Thrasher, European Starling, Cedar Waxwing, Orange-crowned Warbler, Yellow Warbler, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Wilson's Warbler, California Towhee, Western Tanager, Song Sparrow, Golden-crowned Sparrow, Lazuli Bunting, Blue Grosbeak, Red-winged Blackbird, Tricolored Blackbird, Brewer's Blackbird, Brown-headed Cowbird, Bullock's Oriole, House Finch, Pine Siskin, Lesser Goldfinch, and Lawrence's Goldfinch. BOBA.
Tu, 3 May 05 - A White-headed Woodpecker was reported to be along the north edge of the Kern River Preserve riparian forest along the fenceline running east from the end of the Migrant Corner Trail. ASSU.
Tu, 3 May 05 - Several calling Mountain Quail highlighted a 5:47am-7:54am survey of the entire length of the Canebrake Creek Fremont cottonwood and red willow forest. This forest is entirely on the Canebrake Ecological Reserve. The Mountain Quail were calling from the desert scrub hillside found just across Hwy. 178 on the south side of Hwy, Species recorded: California Quail, Mountain Quail, Rock Pigeon, Mourning Dove, Greater Roadrunner, Nuttall's Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Western Wood-Pewee, Dusky Flycatcher, Say's Phoebe, Ash-throated Flycatcher, Western Kingbird, Warbling Vireo, Western Scrub-Jay, Common Raven, Tree Swallow, Cliff Swallow, Oak Titmouse, Bushtit, Cactus Wren, Canyon Wren, Bewick's Wren, House Wren, American Robin, Western Bluebird, European Starling, Yellow Warbler, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Wilson's Warbler, Summer Tanager, Spotted Towhee, California Towhee, Song Sparrow, Golden-crowned Sparrow, Blue Grosbeak, Red-winged Blackbird, Tricolored Blackbird, Brewer's Blackbird, Brown-headed Cowbird, Bullock's Oriole, House Finch, Pine Siskin, Lesser Goldfinch, Lawrence's Goldfinch, and House Sparrow. BOBA.
Mo, 2 May 05 - An FOS Indigo Bunting male was reported from the south-central side of the Meadow Field riparian forest restoration site found at the west end of the slough channel trail. RETO.
Su, 1 May 05 - White-headed Woodpecker, Steller's Jay, Mountain Chickadee, Red-breasted Nuthatch, Golden-crowned Kinglet, Yellow-rumped Warbler, and Dark-eyed Junco highlighted a short, late afternoon visit to Greenhorn Summit. BOBA, MOB.
Su, 1 May 05 - Two FOS Lesser Nighthawks were observed from along Sierra Way in Weldon just north of Hwy. 178. This species has declined precipitously in the South Fork Valley in the last ten years, thought to be due to severe local habitat loss. BOBA, et. al.
Su, 1 May 05 - The Tundra Swan continued at Central Park in California City. Also present was the now resident Ross's Goose. SAKO, MOB.
Su, 1 May 05 - Peregrine Falcon and American Dipper highlighted a visit to the Kern River bordering Main Dam Campground off Hwy. 155 north of the community of Lake Isabella. BOBA, BOST, MOB
Su, 1 May 05 - Cinnamon Teal, Gadwall, Western Grebe, Clark's Grebe, American White Pelican, White-faced Ibis, Osprey, Caspian Tern, Loggerhead Shrike, Horned Lark, Red-winged Blackbird, Tricolored Blackbird, Western Meadowlark, Yellow-headed Blackbird, Brewer's Blackbird, Great-tailed Grackle, and Brown-headed Cowbird were reported from the South Fork Wildlife Area as accessed off the north side of Hwy. 178 just west of the sand and gravel plant in Weldon/South Lake. BOBA, MOB.
Su, 1 May 05 - A White-tailed Kite was still present north of the South Fork Kern River off the east side of Fay Ranch Road. Also present were Swainson's Hawk, Yellow Warbler, Lark Sparrow, Savannah Sparrow, Blue Grosbeak, Lazuli Bunting, and Lawrence's Goldfinch. BOBA, JOSC.
Su, 1 May 05 - The Red Crossbills continued at Scodie Park in Onyx. BOBA, SUST, MOB.
Su, 1 May 05 - Western Kingbird, "Solitary" Vireo, Rock Wren, Canyon Wren, Bewick's Wren, California Towhee, Black-chinned Sparrow, Bullock's Oriole, and Scott's Oriole were reported from Hwy. 178 Milepost 74 at Bert's Park rest stop and east up the road for 200 meters/yards. BOBA, MOB.
Su, 1 May 05 - Both Cassin's Kingbird and Western Kingbird were reported from Hwy. 178 Milepost 74 at Bert's Park rest stop. ALSH.
Su, 1 May 05 - Mountain Quail continued to be easily observed at Butterbredt Spring. Also reported were Long-eared Owl, the eleven most common migrating warbler species through the southern Sierra (Orange-crowned Warbler, Nashville Warbler, Yellow Warbler, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Black-throated Gray Warbler, Townsend's Warbler, Hermit Warbler, MacGillivray's Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Wilson's Warbler in the 100s, Yellow-breasted Chat) and abundant Western Tanager and Black-headed Grosbeak.. GAFI, MIMC, MOB.
Sa/Su, 30 Apr/1 May 05 - Highlights of two visits to Sequoia Studios & Preserve Store off the north side of Hwy. 178 in Weldon (across from Kelso CREEK Road) included Black-chinned Hummingbird, Anna's Hummingbird, Oak Titmouse, California Towhee, Black-headed Grosbeak, Tricolored Blackbird, Hooded Oriole, Bullock's Oriole, Pine Siskin, Lesser Goldfinch, and American Goldfinch BOBA, MOB.
Sa/Su, 30 Apr/1 May 05 - The Vermilion Flycatcher continued in the wet meadow located just southwest of the Fay Ranch Road bridge over the South Fork Kern River in Weldon. Also present were Great Blue Heron (5-10 nest rookery), Red-tailed Hawk (nest w. young), Nuttall's Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Western Wood Pewee, Western Bluebird, Yellow Warbler, Summer Tanager, Lazuli Bunting, and Lawrence's Goldfinch. BOBA, GAPO, JOSC, ALSH, MOB.
Sa/Su, 30 Apr/1 May 05 - Chukar, California Quail, Mountain Quail, Ash-throated Flycatcher, Loggerhead Shrike, Cactus Wren, Rock Wren, Canyon Wren, Bewick's Wren, Brewer's Sparrow, Black-throated Sparrow, Blue Grosbeak, Lazuli Bunting, and Scott's Oriole were reported to be along the Chimney Peak National Backcountry Byway to the Chimney Peak Recreation Area Road about two miles up from Hwy. 178 east of Canebrake. BOBA, MOB.
Sa/Su, 30 Apr/1 May 05 - Visuals of Flammulated Owl, Western Screech Owl, and Northern Pygmy Owl highlighted a report from an owling trip in the Greenhorn Mountains flaking the west side of Isabella Reservoir. BRWE, et. al.
Sa/Su, 30 Apr/1 May 05 - Prairie Falcon, Black-chinned Hummingbird, Anna's Hummingbird, Rufous Hummingbird, Yellow Warbler, Yellow-breasted Chat, Summer Tanager, Pine Siskin, Lesser Goldfinch, and Lawrence's Goldfinch highlighted birding at Kern River Preserve Headquarters. BOBA, DABU, GAPO, ALSH, ASSU, LESU, MOB
Sa, 30 Apr 05 - Several Sora were heard at the marsh at the end of the Kern River Preserve's Migrant Corner Trail off the northeast corner of the Sierra Way bridge over the South Fork Kern River just over a mile north of Hwy. 178. GAPO,.
Sa, 30 Apr 05 - Two singing male Summer Tanagers highlighted a visit to the Canebrake Ecological Reserve. Also reported were Say's Phoebe and Blue Grosbeak. BOBA, MOB.
Sa, 30 Apr 05 - A Common Loon was picked out from among 100s of Western and Clark's Grebes on Isabella Reservoir as viewed from one of the large turn-outs off Sierra Way. GOBL.
Sa, 30 Apr 05 - A Least Flycatcher was reported as seen and heard from deep within Sequoia National Forest's South Fork Wildlife Area as accessed off Hwy. 178 just outside the west end of the KOA Kampground in Weldon. MAWH.
Fr, 29 Apr 05 - At least two Red Crossbills were reported from Scodie Park in Onyx. GAPO.
Fr, 29 Apr 05 - A 5:45am-9:30am survey of the east side of the South Fork Kern River riparian forest on the Canebrake Ecological Reserve from near the bridge along the Public Access Trail to a point several hundred meters upriver yielded Mallard 4, California Quail 10, Green Heron 1, Turkey Vulture 1, American Kestrel 2, Virginia Rail 3, American Coot 1, Wilson's Snipe 1, Mourning Dove 10, Vaux's Swift 1, Anna's Hummingbird 3, Nuttall's Woodpecker 2, Downy Woodpecker 2, Hairy Woodpecker 1, Northern Flicker 6, Western Wood-Pewee 1, Dusky Flycatcher 1, Gray Flycatcher 2, Empidonax species 3, Black Phoebe 5, Ash-throated Flycatcher 3, Western Kingbird 5, "Solitary" Vireo 4, Cassin's Vireo 1, Warbling Vireo 1, Western Scrub-Jay 6, Common Raven 2, Tree Swallow 30, Oak Titmouse 1, Bushtit 2, Rock Wren 2, Bewick's Wren 6, House Wren 19, Western Bluebird 4, American Robin 3, Wrentit 2, European Starling 8, Orange-crowned Warbler 1, Yellow Warbler 6, Yellow-rumped Warbler 8, Townsend's Warbler 1, Common Yellowthroat 10, Wilson's Warbler 9, Summer Tanager 2, Western Tanager 3, Spotted Towhee 1, Savannah Sparrow 5, Song Sparrow 24, Blue Grosbeak 4, Lazuli Bunting 2, Red-winged Blackbird 24, Tricolored Blackbird 105, Brown-headed Cowbird 10, Bullock's Oriole 7, Purple Finch 1, House Finch 5, and Lesser Goldfinch 10... 56 species. BOBA, ASSU.
Th, 28 Apr 05 - An FOS Cassin's Kingbird was observed in Onyx where this species has been found nesting over several past years. TEGA.
Th, 28 Apr 05 - 7:40am-8:50am, Desert Memorial Park (AKA Ridgecrest Cemetery), County Line Road, Ridgecrest: Greater Roadrunner (on nest) Vaux's Swift, Anna's Hummingbird, Northern (Red-shafted) Flicker, Hammond's Flycatcher, Horned Lark, Orange-crowned Warbler, Yellow Warbler, Yellow-rumped (MYRTLE) Warbler, Wilson's Warbler, Western Tanager, Black-headed Grosbeak, Lesser Goldfinch. BOBA.
We, 27 Apr 05 - A Yellow-breasted Chat was reported to be at the east end of the KRP Nature Trail, an area where this species has been found yearly in recent years. ASSU.
We, 27 Apr 05 - An 8:20am-9:40am survey of the triangular patch of native vegetation in the Kern River Parkway at the west end of Yokuts Park, Bakersfield yielded the following report of 34 species: Mallard 1, Red-tailed Hawk 1, Killdeer 2, Greater Yellowlegs 1, Rock Pigeon 3, Mourning Dove 6, Rose-ringed Parakeet 2, Black-chinned Hummingbird 2 (male & female), Anna's Hummingbird 1, Hairy Woodpecker 1, Black Phoebe 1, Ash-throated Flycatcher 1, Western Kingbird 2, Warbling Vireo 1, Western Scrub-Jay 2, American Crow 2, Common Raven 1, Cliff Swallow 1, Bushtit 4, Bewick's Wren 1, American Robin 6, Northern Mockingbird 4, European Starling 5, Cedar Waxwing 4, MacGillivray's Warbler 1 singing male, Wilson's Warbler 3, White-crowned Sparrow 1, Black-headed Grosbeak 2, Red-winged Blackbird 6 (5 males, 1 female), Brown-headed Cowbird 5 (2 males, 3 females), Bullock's Oriole 12, House Finch 5, Lesser Goldfinch 2, and American Goldfinch 1. BOBA, RADR.
We, 27 Apr 05 - A 6:10am-8:10am survey of the Truxton Lakes and the multi-acre patch of native vegetation immediately to the west in the Kern River Parkway, Bakersfield yielded the following report of 49 species: Canada Goose 3, Mallard 32 (13 adults, 19 ducklings). Cinnamon Teal 3 males, Gadwall 1 male, American Wigeon 2 males, Ruddy Duck 7 (4 males, 3 females), Pied-billed Grebe 1, Great Blue Heron 1, Snowy Egret 1, Green Heron 3, Black-crowned Night-Heron 3, Red-tailed Hawk 1, Common Moorhen 1, American Coot 21, Killdeer 5, Black-necked Stilt 5, American Avocet 2, Long-billed Dowitcher 5, Caspian Tern 1, Mourning Dove 12, Rose-ringed Parakeet 1, Anna's Hummingbird 3, Downy Woodpecker 2, Hairy Woodpecker 1 male, Western Kingbird 4, Western Scrub-Jay 1, Tree Swallow 1, Cliff Swallow 4, Bewick's Wren 5, House Wren 1, American Robin 6 (plus nest), Northern Mockingbird 2, European Starling 5, Cedar Waxwing 77, Orange-crowned Warbler 1, Yellow Warbler 2 (singing males), Yellow-rumped Warbler 1, Townsend's Warbler 1, Common Yellowthroat 1 male, Wilson's Warbler 1, Song Sparrow 2, White-crowned Sparrow 1, Golden-crowned Sparrow 1 adult, Black-headed Grosbeak 2, Red-winged Blackbird 2, Brown-headed Cowbird 5 (3 males, 2 females), Bullock's Oriole 6, House Finch 16, American Goldfinch 5. BOBA, RADR.
Tu, 26 Apr 05 - A 5:45am-9:55am survey of the Kern River and Parkway inside the levees between Manor Street and Chester Avenue in Bakersfield yielded the following report of 45 species: Canada Goose 9 (2 pairs w. 5 goslings), Mallard 22 (15 adults & 7 ducklings), California Quail 6, Double-crested Cormorant 3, Great Blue Heron 3, Great Egret 2, Green Heron 1, Red-tailed Hawk 1, American Kestrel 2 (male & female), American Coot 15, Killdeer 4, Gull species 6, Rock Pigeon 4, Mourning Dove 29, Rose-ringed Parakeet 2, Black-chinned Hummingbird 3, Anna's Hummingbird 4, Northern Flicker 1, Black Phoebe 6 (5 adults & 1 fledgling), Ash-throated Flycatcher 3, Western Kingbird 7, Warbling Vireo 1, Western Scrub Jay 10, American Crow 3, Common Raven 1, Northern Rough-winged Swallow 6, Cliff Swallow 100+, Bushtit 5, Bewick's Wren 6, House Wren 5, American Robin 4, Northern Mockingbird 14, European Starling 8, Cedar Waxwing 49, Yellow-rumped Warbler 1, Wilson's Warbler 3, Spotted Towhee 3, Song Sparrow 17, Black-headed Grosbeak 6 (5 singing males, 1 calling individual), Blue Grosbeak 7, Brewer's Blackbird 2, Brown-headed Cowbird 22 (10 males, 6 females, plus 6), Bullock's Oriole 7, House Finch 15, and House Sparrow 8. BOBA, RADR.
Sa, 23 Apr 05 - A ninety minute, morning visit to the Canebrake Ecological Reserve yielded in a report of, among others: Nuttall's Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Hairy Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Western Wood-Pewee, Black Phoebe, Say's Phoebe, Ash-throated Flycatcher, Western Kingbird, Cassin's Vireo, Warbling Vireo, Yellow Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Blue Grosbeak, Lazuli Bunting, and Tricolored Blackbird. BOBA.
Sa, 23 Apr 05 - Yellow Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Blue Grosbeak, and Lazuli Bunting were reported to be widespread at known nesting areas including the Canebrake Ecological Reserve, Fay Ranch Road, and both the north (off Sierra Way at Hanning Flat) and south (off Hwy. 178 west of KOA) sides of the South Fork Wildlife Area. BOBA.
Sa, 23 Apr 05 - Lawrence's Goldfinch was reported from along Fay Ranch Road south from the bridge over the South Fork Kern River. BOBA.
Sa, 23 Apr 05 - A pair of Hooded Orioles was reported as heard and seen at the west edge of the community of Onyx as accessed from Worthington Street. BOBA.
Sa, 23 Apr 05 - A report of continuing Pine Siskins at the thistle feeders at Kern River Preserve Headquarters. BOBA.
Sa, 23 Apr 05 - A twenty minute, early morning visit to the south side of the South Fork Wildlife Area from Hwy. 178 to the shores of Isabella Reservoir and the south bank of the South Fork Kern River yielded a report of, among other species: Western Grebe, Clark's Grebe, American White Pelican, Osprey, Northern Harrier, Prairie Falcon, Horned Lark, Red-winged Blackbird, Tricolored Blackbird, Western Meadowlark, Yellow-headed Blackbird, and Great-tailed Grackle. BOBA.
Fr, 22 Apr 05 - Three Tricolored Blackbird colonies were censused in the Kern River Valley. 1500 individuals were estimated at the Canebrake Ecological Reserve, 1200+ individuals were counted during a roadside, dawn flyout count from a colony on private land along Sierra Way across from Prince's Pond, and 90 individuals were estimated at a colony alongside Barlow Road below Isabella Reservoir's Auxiliary Dam. NOTE: THE COLONY OFF SIERRA WAY IS ON PRIVATE PROPERTY - VIEW FROM THE EDGE OF THE ROAD. DO NOT CROSS THE FENCE LINE. BOBA, AMSC, ASSU.
Th, 21 Apr 05 - An FOS Summer Tanager was reported as heard and seen this morning from along the ranch road leading west from Kern River Preserve Headquarters parking lot. Also observed were Western Tanager and Lawrence's Goldfinch. AMSC, ASSU.
Tu, 19 Apr 05 - An FOS Lazuli Bunting was reported from the Canebrake Ecological Reserve's Public Access Road. BOBA, ASSU.
Su, 17 Apr 05 - Greater Roadrunner 2, Great Horned Owl 1, Cassin's Vireo 1, Verdin 1, Ruby-crowned Kinglet 1, Hermit Thrush 1, Orange-crowned Warbler 3, Townsend's Warbler 2 (male & female), Yellow-rumped Warbler 1, Wilson's Warbler 1, Yellow-headed Blackbird 24, Lesser Goldfinch 4 highlighted a report of a 7:40am-9am visit to DMP. BOBA.
Sa, 16 Apr 05 - 6000+ White-faced Ibis and 100s of Tricolored Blackbirds highlighted a report of an 8:30am-9:30am drive of the Auto Tour Route at Kern National Wildlife Refuge 19 miles west of Delano. Among other species reported: Cinnamon Teal, Redhead, Eared Grebe (in breeding plumage), Western Grebe, Clark's Grebe, Black-necked Stilt, American Avocet, and Western Kingbird, BOBA, AMSC, ASSU.
Fr, 15 Apr 05 - An adult female Black-throated Gray Warbler, an adult female Common Yellowthroat, and 44 Yellow-headed Blackbirds highlighted a report of an 8am-9am visit to DMP. BOBA.
Th, 14 Apr 05 - An FOS Pacific-slope Flycatcher was reported as seen and heard in KRP's Slough Channel forest c. 2pm. ASSU.
Th, 14 Apr 05 - Olive-sided Flycatcher, Ash-throated Flycatcher, Warbling Vireo, Orange-crowned Warbler, and Black-throated Gray Warbler were reported as being in KRP's Slough Channel forest 6:30am-10am. AMSC.
Th, 14 Apr 05 - A pair of Greater Roadrunners with nesting material, a Say's Phoebe, and a female Black-throated Gray Warbler highlighted a report of a 3pm visit to DMP. BOBA.
We, 13 Apr 05 - Rose-ringed Parakeet 1, Western Kingbird 3, House Wren 1, Yellow Warbler 1 (singing male), Yellow-rumped Warbler 38 , Bullock's Oriole 5, and American Goldfinch 8 among 30 species observed highlighted a report of a 8:50am-10:30am survey of native vegetation at the west end of Truxton Lake, Bakersfield. BOBA, RADR.
We, 13 Apr 05 - Rose-ringed Parakeet 7, Western Kingbird 5 , Nashville Warbler 1, Yellow-rumped Warbler 10, Black-throated Gray Warbler 1, Black-headed Grosbeak 4, Bullock's Oriole 9, and American Goldfinch 10 among 27 species observed highlighted report of a 6am-8:20am survey of a the triangular patch of native vegetation at the west end of Yokuts Park, Bakersfield. BOBA, RADR.
Tu, 12 Apr 05 - A FOS Townsend's Warbler was reported as being in KRP's Slough Channel forest c. 5:30pm. AMSC.
Tu, 12 Apr 05 - Rose-ringed Parakeet 14, Western Kingbird 8, House Wren 2, Orange-crowned Warbler 1, Yellow-rumped Warbler 31, Black-throated Gray Warbler 1, Black-headed Grosbeak 4, Bullock's Oriole 5, and American Goldfinch 91 among 42 species observed highlighted a report of a 6:05am-11am survey of the Kern River and Parkway inside the levees between Manor Street and Chester Avenue in Bakersfield. BOBA, RADR.
Mo, 11 Apr 05 - An FOS Gray Flycatcher was reported to be at the Southern Sierra Research Station, Fay Ranch Road, Weldon. BOBA, EMCO.
Su, 10 Apr 05 - An FOS Western Wood-Pewee was reported as being in KRP's Slough Channel forest. This is EIGHT days earlier than the previous early report in M.T. Heindel's East Kern book. AMSC.
We, 6 Apr 05 - An FOS Yellow Warbler was reported as being in the Slough Channel forest in front of KRP Headquarters. ASSU.
30 Mar 05 - An FOS Black-throated Gray Warbler was reported from the north end of the Kern River Preserve's Nature Trail. DAHA.
Su, 19 Mar 05 - An FOS singing male Common Yellowthroat was observed in the Slough Channel from the entrance driveway to Kern River Preserve Headquarters. RETO.
Sa, 18 Mar 05 - An FOS adult male and female Vermilion Flycatcher was reported as having returned to Fay Ranch Road just south of where this species nested in 2003 & 2004. This location is on the left side of Fay Ranch Road in the first two fields before the bridge over the South Fork Kern River. NOTE: THIS IS PRIVATE PROPERTY - VIEW FROM THE EDGE OF THE ROAD. DO NOT CROSS THE FENCE LINE. RETO.
Tu, 7 Mar 05 - Several 400-500 white geese were reported as being still present in the fields bordering the north side of DMP. At least one Ross's Goose and one "Blue" Goose were identified among a group of 20 Snow Geese. BOBA.
OBSERVERS: LIGA-Liga Auzins, BOBA-Bob Barnes, TOBA-Todd Battey, GOBL-Gordon Black, DABU-Dan Burnett, ENCA-Encar Card, EMCO-Emily Cohen, RADR-Rachel del Rio, GAFI-Gary File, MAFR-Mary Freeman, NIFR-Nick Freeman, TEGA-Terri Gallion, STGR-Stan Gray, DAHA-David Haines, ANHO-Andrew Howe, VEHO-Vernon Howe, BRKY-Brenda Kyle, KEKY-Ken Kyle, MOB-Many Observers, TOMC-Todd McGrath, MIMC-Michael McQuerrey, TOMI-Thomas Miko, BIMY-Bill Myers, GAPO-Garry Potter, AMSC-Amy Scarpignato, JOSE-Joyce Seibold, ALSH-Alison Sheehey, STSO-Steve Sosensky, SUST-Susan Steele, BOST-Bob Stewart, ASSU-Ashley Sutton, LESU-Lee Sutton, BISW-Bill Sweetman, RETO-Reed Tollefson, BRWE-Bruce Webb, MAWH-Mary Whitfield, TOWU-Tom Wurster.
Bob Barnes & Associates • PO Box 953, Weldon, CA 93283 • E-mail: Bob Barnes
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This page was last updated on Saturday, August 25, 2007